GDFL Game Preview Holiday Edition:Raiders v. River City Rough Riders

Racine,Wisconsin-The Racine Raiders (6-0) will host the River City Rough Riders (6-3) this Saturday at Historic Horlick Athletic Field. The Raiders aim to extend their winning streak to 22 games and put themselves in sole possession of the fourth-best all-time winning streak by a Raiders or Gladiators team over the organization’s 71-year history.

The River City Rough Riders are a part of the Northern Lights Football League (NLFL) and were runner-up for the NLFL championship in 2023. They won their first national bowl game in team history this past January. River City’s schedule is considered one of the toughest according to the 2024 national rankings this season, as they have five matchups with top 15 opponents.  

The Raiders are coming off a dominant performance on the road against the Glass City Tigers where they won 49-12. On the season, veteran quarterback Andre Locke, Sr. has over 1,000 passing yards and 18 total touchdowns. A big part of that success has been due to a growing connection with WR Will Norwood over the past three games. The former Ohio University Bobcat, Norwood has tallied just under 150 yards with five touchdowns in the last three games.  

Defensively, the Raiders are led by linebacker Gary Young, Jr. who has 35 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. 

Jordan Danowski leads the secondary with 18 tackles and three interceptions, with one returned for a touchdown. Willie Clay leads the defensive line with six sacks and eight tackles for loss.  

The River City Rough Riders are led offensively by running back Devion Clay and wide receiver Jalanzo Jackson. Clay has just over 800 total yards with 23 touchdowns and Jackson has just over 500 yards and five touchdowns.  

The Rough Riders are led defensively by linebacker Aaron Taylor (61 tackles, two sacks), defensive lineman John Goode (40 tackles, seven sacks), and defensive back LaVontay Basley (four interceptions).  

The Raiders look to continue their winning streak when they take on the Rough Riders at Historic Horlick Athletic Field on July 6th with a 7 pm CT kickoff. It’s military appreciation night and there will be an activity at halftime to recognize members of each military branch. In addition, Operation BBQ Relief will host a free tailgate party beginning at 4:30 pm inside the veteran’s gate. 

All veterans are invited to attend, learn more about the organization, and enjoy great food and camaraderie. Fans can buy tickets in advance through Hometown Ticketing or at the door beginning at 5:30 pm on Saturday.