The Orlando Pirates (8-5) defeated the Quad City Steamwheelers (5-8) 45-26 at the Vibrant Arena at the Mark in Moline, IL.

With the win, the Pirates have swept Quad City this season after beating them 49-46 in the home opener, and are now on a two-game win streak as the regular season has only three games remaining. 

The Pirates finished both halves strong, scoring 17 points in the second quarter and 25 points in the fourth quarter to hold off Quad City. A couple of clutch field goals by Josh Gable proved to be too much for Quad City. 

The Pirate defense held Quad City to 26 points, which is 13 points below their average. The Pirates controlled the clock for much of the second half, limiting the opportunities for Quad City.

Former Florida State quarterback James Blackman was a non-participant in this game. Blackman left Florida State as one of the all-time passing leaders, ranking in the top 12 in many career passing categories. 

Blackman signed with the Miami Dolphins in 2023 as an undrafted free agent before being one of the last players to be cut prior to the season starting.

Ex-Florida State receiver Nyqwan Murray, who came back from injury two weeks ago, had a touchdown called back because of a penalty. Murray had 3 receptions for 64 yards on the day. 

Murray ranks No. 17 on the Florida State all-time receptions list, and No.17 on their receiving yards list. Murray recorded a reception in each of his last 30 games played at Florida State. Murray went undrafted in 2019 and signed a free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks before being cut before the season.

Ja’khi Douglas had 2 receptions for seventeen yards for the Pirates against Quad City. 

The former Florida State receiver led the Noles in receiving in 2024 with 32 receptions for 519 yards and four scores.

Paxton DeLaurent threw for three touchdowns, going 18-for-30 with 175 yards in the air, and rushing for -1 yard on two attempts. DeLaurent had one interception.

Pooka Williams had 11 carries for 46 yards on the ground. He was used in a trick play in which he completed a five-yard pass. Williams had one touchdown.

Leon O’neal led the Pirates with six tackles and one pass defended. 

The Pirates will host the Green Bay Blizzard on Sunday, July 5.

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