Game 3 Preview @ Orlando

Game 3 Preview @ Orlando

By Timothy Wallis

Following an opening week loss on the road at Fishers, the Quad City Steamwheelers got in the win column for the first time in 2026 in their home opener against the Iowa Barnstormers, winning by a score of 46-25, following an offensive surge in the second quarter. Now, the team will travel down south to Florida to take on the Pirates, now located in Orlando, who are looking to once again make the playoffs after missing the cut last season.

Kick-off is at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 5, at the Kia Center in Orlando, FL. To watch, you can go to Overnght online or download the overnght app on iOS, Android, or Apple TV.

About the Steamwheelers

Last week, the Steamwheelers earned their first win of the 2026 season with a 46–25 victory over the Iowa Barnstormers in the home opener and first Battle of I-80 of the season. After falling behind early, the Wheelers surged in the second quarter behind a strong offense and multiple Iowa turnovers to take control of the game. Quarterback Daquan Neal led the way with four passing touchdowns and one rushing score, while Jarrod Ware and Quian Williams contributed key receiving touchdowns. The Steamwheelers' defense played a major role, forcing several turnovers and adding multiple interceptions to halt Iowa's momentum. Quad City extended its lead in the second half and maintained control through the fourth quarter to secure the win and improve to 1–1. Offensively, the Wheelers average 36.5 points per game through two games, which is the 8th highest in the league, while Neal's eight passing touchdowns are tied for the most out of all quarterbacks so far. Defensively, the team's four interceptions are the most in the league so far, while their one fumble recovery is the third most.

QC - Players to Watch

Jarrod Ware Jr. / RB  - With the Pirates only allowing 31 rushing yards last week, the Wheelers will face a tough defense that will look to take away a dynamic player like Ware. Quad City will need Ware to continue being a threat in the passing and rushing game if they want to leave Orlando with a win.

KeShaun Moore / DL - In two games this season, Moore has 10 total tackles, but no sacks or tackles for loss. Moore has shown that he has been capable of producing monster numbers, and his talent will make him a player to watch this week, in hopes of a breakout game against Orlando.

About the Pirates

Last week, the Pirates overcame an early deficit to earn a 41–38 win, responding quickly with a touchdown drive led by their quarterback and a scoring catch by Thomas Owens. Running back Pooka Williams ran for four touchdowns and consistently powered the offense in the second half. The Pirates also showed off their special teams when Dante Wright returned a missed field goal 58 yards for a touchdown, a franchise record. In the closing minutes, the Pirates had a clutch drive capped by Williams' fourth score to take the lead for good. Overall, their offense doesn't rank super high in most categories, with their 169 yards ranking 12th in the league, their 92 passing yards per game ranking 13th, but their 77 rushing yards per game rank second. Defensively, they have not forced any turnovers, but only in a one-game sample size.

Orlando - Players to Watch

Pooka Williams / RB - Williams' four rushing touchdowns last week against New Mexico certainly raised some eyebrows across the league. While the Steamwheelers' defense locked down the run in their last match against Iowa, they will have a huge test against Orlando and Williams.

Ro Torrence / DB - The defensive back racked up a tackle for loss and a sack last week in the Pirates win. An incredible athlete with plenty of Division One experience, Torrence will use his size to try and make it difficult for Neal.

Last Time Around…

The Steamwheelers and Pirates last met on 6/25/29, last season, when the Steamwheelers secured a playoff berth with a dominant 56–35 win that helped them improve to 10–3 and maintain first place in the Eastern Conference. Quarterback Daquan Neal led the offense with four passing touchdowns and one rushing score, connecting with Jordan Vesey and Tamorrion Terry for multiple big plays. The Steamwheelers built on early scores, strong field position, and consistent offensive production, extending their lead throughout the second half. Running back Jarrod Ware Jr. added a rushing touchdown, while a special-teams score from Camron Harrell helped put the game out of reach.