Game Preview: Backyard Night vs Jacksonville Sharks - June 12, 2026
IFL Week 14 action kicks off with a battle between two top teams in the league. The Jacksonville Sharks (9-1) travel to the Green Bay Blizzard (9-2) on Friday, June 12 at 7 PM (CST). It will be the first time these teams have met this season; though, it seems they may be on a collision course come playoff time. The Green Bay Blizzard held first place position in the Eastern Conference until Saturday night. At that time, the Blizzard fell to the Quad City Steamwheelers, and the Jacksonville Sharks claimed a victory over the San Antonio Gunslingers. The win pushed the Sharks just ahead of the Blizzard. On Friday night, IFL fans could see Green Bay reclaim the 1 Seed, or Jacksonville pull away.
The Blizzard are facing another incredible defense in the Jacksonville Sharks. The Sharks lead the league in opponent points per game (36.7). This is Green Bay's second time facing an opponent who has led the league in the category. During week 12 action, the Blizzard faced the San Antonio Gunslingers, who were leading at the time, until the outcome of that game saw the Blizzard score 61, thanks in part to the play of RB Kairee Robinson, who came away with five total touchdowns and the IFL Offensive Player of the Week award. On the opposite side, Allen Henry continues to wreak havoc. He was the Rock Solid Fencing De-Fence-Ive Player of the Game for the Blizzard in their last contest when he led the team in tackles for loss. If Robinson and Henry have breakout games, the Sharks may find themselves in deep water.
The Jacksonville defense is dangerous. Last week against the San Antonio Gunslingers, the group came away with two sacks, five and a half tackles for loss, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Defensive back/linebacker Isaiah Major leads the league in total tackles (99), and DL Chris Rice is tied-third for most tackles for loss (11.5). On offense, the Sharks stay on the attack with running back Jimmie Robinson Jr. He has 321 rushing yards (seventh in the IFL) and 16 rushing touchdowns (third in the IFL). They are coming off a win and may smell blood in the water.
Green Bay plays host to this first clash of titans. It is Backyard Night, complete with a pregame tailgate, food and drink specials, grill apron giveaway, and much more! The team plans to pack the stands with fans ready to use their outdoor voices while the Sharks try to drown out the noise. Who will emerge victorious? Fans will watch with bated breath when the Green Bay Blizzard play the Jacksonville Sharks on Friday, June 12 at 7 PM (CST). Get your tickets here or at the Resch Center!