In a critical Wild Card matchup, the Berlin Thunder displayed tactical discipline and superior scheme execution to defeat the Stars 30-13 at home. Head Coach Carl Cottle’s game plan emphasized a balanced offensive attack complemented by an aggressive defensive front, which ultimately dictated the pace and outcome.

Cottle’s opening choice to receive the kickoff set the tone, enabling his team to control possession early. The Thunder’s offense capitalized on field position with a pair of early field goals by kicker Michael Barrett, positioning Berlin comfortably at 6-0 by midway through the first quarter. Their decision to lean heavily on their rushing attack manifested with 47 carries for 245 yards and three touchdowns, spearheaded by Scott Ashmore’s 138 yards on the ground, effectively exploiting the Stars’ lack of defensive pressure—who failed to record a sack.

Quarterback Micheal Deangelo orchestrated a methodical aerial attack, completing 16 of 22 passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception. His precision targeting of tight end Jimmy Schneider, who made a critical 44-yard touchdown reception after a smooth release against man coverage, revealed Cottle’s intent to stretch the defense vertically and aggressively at the intermediate level. This complemented the strong run game, keeping the Stars’ defense unbalanced and guessing.

The Thunder also utilized creative personnel groupings and formation shifts, frequently deploying 4-2-MYC (four linemen, two linebackers in middle yard coverage) to maintain scheme flexibility. This allowed Deangelo to exploit specific matchups, as seen when rookie receiver Randy Stewart broke free in tight coverage to secure a 1-yard scoring catch with a decisive move on the cornerback. These well-choreographed adjustments helped nullify the Stars’ defensive schemes.

Defensively, the Thunder stood firm with four sacks and a turnover created by linebacker Thomas Norman's forced fumble. Jerome Gregg’s contribution should not go unnoticed; as a versatile weapon, he amassed 41 receiving yards and scored a rushing touchdown, exemplifying the multi-dimensional threat Berlin posed. This combined with defensive resilience kept the Stars’ highly accurate quarterback Roberto Clinton, who threw for 224 yards but no touchdowns, from converting their drives into game-changing plays.

Richard Jeans’ Stars struggled to generate consistent pressure or establish a running game, evident in just 37 rushing yards on 16 carries and failing to convert any third downs. Their lone touchdown came on a rare 10-yard run by Glen Randall, but that was not enough to keep pace with Berlin’s balanced, execution-focused approach.

Importantly, the Thunder limited costly turnovers and penalties (five for 33 yards), maintaining situational awareness and discipline. The defensive unit’s lone interception at a critical moment late in the third quarter helped solidify Berlin’s control as the Stars attempted to rally.

Coach Cottle’s masterful preparation and in-game adjustments demonstrated a clear understanding of both team strengths and opponent vulnerabilities. The spread of scoring across multiple offensive weapons and stout defensive stands underscores this Thunder squad’s playoff readiness. With this 30-13 victory, the Thunder have sent a strong message about their ability to execute under playoff pressure.