SAN JOSE — The SaberCats continued their relentless charge through the 2022 regular season, securing a statement 18-0 road win against the Express this past Sunday. Head Coach Jose Davison’s squad improved to an impressive 10-2 record, maintaining their perfect 4-0 division slate and pushing their win streak to nine games.

This game was a showcase of defense, special teams excellence, and a ground game that refused to be stopped. Despite a day where passing yards were modest on both sides—the SaberCats managed just 61 through the air and the Express a mere 54—the momentum was firmly in San Jose’s corner from the opening quarter.

The scoring started early with kicker Ken Bench stepping up to drill a 35-yard field goal at 6:54 in the opening quarter, giving the SaberCats a 3-0 lead. Bench proved to be a crucial weapon all day, connecting on all four of his field goal attempts, including a long 32-yarder in the third quarter that extended the lead to 9-0. These points added vital breathing room in a contest where offensive touchdowns were at a premium.

SaberCats’ rushing attack was the workhorse behind the win, grinding out a massive 244 yards on 62 carries. Joe Tedder led the ground game with 83 rushing yards and chipped in 8 receiving yards, exemplifying his versatility. Meanwhile, Eric Rodriguez contributed a timely 29 yards on the ground and capped off the scoring with a decisive touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. That touchdown pushed the lead to 15-0, putting the game out of reach while showcasing the SaberCats’ commitment to a power-run offense that Coach Davison has relied on all year.

While the offense took its time finding its footing in the passing game—completing just half of their throws and throwing four interceptions—the defense was a wall the entire afternoon. The SaberCats sacked Express quarterback Floyd Spencer twice and forced four interceptions, disrupting what little momentum the host team could muster. Notably, the defense’s ability to snuff out every red zone visit by the Express, who finished the day 0 for 0 on third-down conversions, painted a picture of a team locked in and ready for the stretch run.

Express’ offense struggled to gain traction all game, stifled by San Jose’s relentless defensive presence and special teams pressure. With only 13 rushing yards on 13 carries and no touchdowns, the home team’s inability to sustain drives was a major factor in the scoreboard blank.

The special teams unit also set the tone, with punters like Frank Olmeda booming several long kicks that pinned the Express deep and forced fair catches that limited return opportunities. The SaberCats’ disciplined play and minimization of penalties helped quelch any chances for the Express to gain momentum.

San Jose Post caught up with SaberCats owner Smirt211 after the game, who praised the team’s resilient performance: “Getting four field goals from Ken shows we took what the defense gave us and capitalized. Holding the Express scoreless while putting up 244 yards on the ground — that’s a statement. Coach Davison’s team is in rhythm, and this win is a big step toward finishing the season strong.”

With week 12 in the books, the SaberCats continue to lead their division and build momentum for what’s shaping up to be a deep postseason run. Defense, a punishing run game, and clutch kicking remain pillars of their success. As the season edges closer to its climax, Coach Davison’s squad is proving that they’re not just contenders, but favorites to watch in the weeks ahead.