Destroyers cannot stop the Force; Zwick to play

Nearly 11 months ago, the Columbus Destroyers were in the midst of a surprise run to the Arena Bowl when they needed a big win at Georgia against the Force. The Destroyers won that game 66-56 in Phillips Arena in the National Conference Championship.

Georgia got payback in a big way Saturday in Nationwide Arena and handed Columbus one of itsmost embarrassing losses in franchise history as the Force defeated the Destroyers 63-34. The loss sends Columbus to a 3-11 record as Georgia is now 9-5. This was the largest margin of defeat for the team since April, 2005.

The first possession of the second quarter ended in a turnover-on-downs for Columbus. This allowed the Force to go up by two touchdowns on the ensuing drive. At the end of the second quarter, with Columbus needing a touchdown, the Destroyers were looking to perform a trick play at fourth and one at the 11 yard line. A reverse handoff pass that the Destroyers’ Calvin Russell attempted was intercepted.

“This is an example of going away from basic football and taking a chance on a situation that backfired,” Destroyers head coach Doug Kay said.

Every Georgia drive either ended a half or with a touchdown. Columbus had three turnovers in the second half.

“Just had too many mistakes and can’t make this many mistakes to win,” Destroyers wide receiver Calvin Russell said.

The Destroyers added for Bowling Green Falcon Josh Harris to their roster. Harris was a standout quarterback in college, but Kay said that Harris is being used more for his special teams and athletic ability.

This Saturday will be notable due to former Ohio State quarterback Justin Zwick will get his first professional playing time against Grand Rapids Saturday at 7 p.m. in Nationwide Arena. Zwick has not had significant playing time in a football game since the 2005 Ohio State season opener against Miami.

Destroyers quarterback Matt Nagy has played well this season throwing for 65 touchdowns and only being picked off seven times. With the Destroyers in the midst of a dismal season, Kay decided to give Zwick a look.