Former Seminoles WR Scores, But Not Enough For Orlando Pirates

The Green Bay Blizzard (12-2) defeated the (8-6) Orlando Pirates 50-52 on Sunday, July 5, at the Kia Center in Orlando. 

The Pirates, who were undefeated at home, saw their playoff chances grow even slimmer, as the Blizzard will now be seeded no lower than No. spot heading into the playoffs three weeks from now.

Nyqwan Murray, former Florida State standout receiver,  hauled in two receptions for 30 yards and an early score. He also has one carry for negative one yard.

Murray was at Florida State from 2015-18. While playing for the Noles, Murray started 18 games, hauling in 12 touchdowns and 1854 career yards.

Former Florida State quarterback James Blackman was a non-participant in the Blizzard game. Blackman was at Florida State from 2017-20 where he established himself as one of the top 12 quarterbacks statistically. 

Ja’hki Douglas also was a non-participant in the Blizzard game. The former Florida State receiver played for the Noles from 2020-24. While at Florida State, he accumulated 1,597 all-purpose yards and nine touchdowns. 

The Blizzard started fast scoring on their first offensive play when quarterback Liam Thompson connected with wide receiver Trevon Alexander to take a quick lead. The Pirates would answer when quarterback Paxton DeLaurent hit Murray for a 26 yard score. Thompson would end the quarter with a second touchdown pass last in the first quarter.

Despite multiple touchdown receptions in the second quarter by Thomas Ownens, the Blizzard put up 21 points in the second quarter to maintain the lead, 35-23 going into halftime.

The Pirates rushed for three third-quarter touchdowns, putting up 20 points and cutting the Blizzard's lead to 2 points, 45-43.

The Pirates briefly took the lead (50-45) in the fourth quarter when DeLaurent scrambled for a 10-yard score, but a late Blizzard score combined with a Pirate turnover would seal the deal for the Blizzard.

DeLaurent finished the game with 11 completions for 124 yards passing and three passing touchdowns. He also had 12 carries for 48 yards and two rushing touchdowns.  

Pooka Williams rushed for 122 yards on 24 carries, including three scores.

Defensive back Leon O’Neal led the team with 11 tackles, including one for a loss.

Next up for the Pirates are the San Antonio Gunslinger (4-9) on July 11 at the Freeman Coliseum. With two games left, the Pirates are fighting for playoff contention, and every game counts.

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