The Utah Blaze defeated the San Jose SaberCats, 35-28, in their preseason scrimmage and Open House event on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at EnergySolutions Arena. "This win is a great confidence builder," said Blaze Head Coach RON JAMES. "It's was beneficial to get our team out early in a game-like atmosphere to see where we need to improve before our first game versus Tampa." The SaberCats obtained the first touchdown within minutes of the start of the scrimmage, but the Blaze were quick to strike back with QB TOMMY GRADY (6-7, 245, Utah) throwing a touchdown pass to FB BEN STALLINGS (5-11, 263, Delta State), tying the score, 7-7. Blaze DB QUINTON ANDREWS (5-11, 205, West Virginia) was a standout on the defensive side of the ball, providing key turning points in the game with two interceptions and one forced fumble. The Blaze pulled ahead during the second quarter with QB ERIK MEYER (6-1, 215, Eastern Washington) completing a touchdown pass to WR EDDIE JACKSON (6-4, 220, West Virginia), bringing the score to 14-7, ending the first half. QB BRET ENGEMANN (6-4, 215, BYU) extended the Blaze's lead with touchdown pass to WR JUSTIN JARVIS (6-5, 200, Boston College) in the beginning of the third quarter. Engemann led the quarterbacks in touchdowns with two, while Grady and Meyer each had one. The Blaze have two weeks to prepare before their home opener on Thursday, March 17th versus the Tampa Bay Storm.
It's was beneficial to get our team out early in a game-like atmosphere to see where we need to improve before our first game versus Tampa.
