After a two-hour lightning delay, the Force crushed the Mayhem 66-0 to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals against Miami, which defeated Atlanta on Saturday night.
“We came back just as strong, or stronger, after the [weather-related] break,” said defensive standout Elisha Okrey.
Chicago struck less than three minutes into the game as Amber Kimbrough sprinted 80 yards for a touchdown on the team’s first offensive play from scrimmage.
And then the storm came, clearing the field and the stands.
When play resumed, Chicago looked like an unstoppable force, building a 26-0 lead in the first quarter and a 50-0 edge at halftime.
“It was a totally awesome game,” said Chicago quarterback Kerri Olivar, a rookie on the team, yet a seven-year player (formerly with Las Vegas). She replaced the injured Sami Grisafe, and Olivar threw five touchdown passes (319 yards of passing offense) to win the DLG Management Game Day Offensive MVP.
“We definitely commanded every snap; this was almost surreal for me. To be a part of this team, and contribute this much, it was awesome. We really were in a good groove today; we took care of business.”
Jeannette Gray was, as always, an offensive standout, scoring four receiving touchdowns.
Kelsey Casey also scored on runs of 16, 10 and 3 yards.
Jill Airaki had a 45-yard touchdown reception.
Okrey said Olivar was “excellent” and added that her throws were “right on” the spot. “Under pressure, she really did well,” Okrey said.
Paula Lehtinen (5 tackles) was named the DLG Management Game Day Defensive MVP.
The Force battle Miami on July 5 in the team’s next playoff game.