For the second time this season, the Force suffered a setback against a fierce divisional competitor as they fell 20-10 to the Steamer at home in Week 14 of the 2022 regular season. Coming off a 13-0 undefeated run, head coach Jeremy Ramirez’s team experienced a rare offensive stall against a resilient Steamer squad led by QB Stan Williams. The loss ends the Force’s winning streak at 13 games and raises questions about their momentum heading into the playoffs despite already clinching a postseason berth.

The game was a defensive battle featuring multiple turnovers that hampered both offenses. The Force had early opportunities with a Frank Whiting fumble recovery at the Steamer 21-yard line in the first quarter, but the offense was unable to capitalize meaningfully. Meanwhile, the Steamer forced two interceptions on Force quarterback George Coulter, who finished with 169 passing yards, one touchdown, but also two costly int’s. The passing struggles prevented the Force from getting into any rhythm, as they were shut out offensively in the red zone with no touchdowns in what was a surprise given their season-long efficiency.

Special teams played a mixed role; Donald Doubledoink’s lone field goal from 45 yards kept the Force on the board early, but the Steamer’s Rufus Stewart made two field goals and three extra points, proving vital for the road team’s narrow lead. Punting was another big factor—both teams relied heavily on the kicking game, with multiple punts resulting in fair catches and subtle field position battles that favored Steamer more often than not.

Steamer’s offense, fueled by Danny Trevino’s 64 rushing yards and a receiving touchdown, along with 73 receiving yards from Joshua Deets and 72 from Marshall Bernardi, orchestrated a fourth-quarter touchdown to break the game open at 17-3. Donald Doubledoink and the Force responded with a Frank Whiting rushing touchdown, but it was too little too late as Steamer held firm.

Defensively, the Force showed fight by recovering a fumble and snagging two interceptions, but the inability to force any sacks or disrupt Stan Williams consistently left the door open. Williams efficiently posted 254 yards and a touchdown despite throwing two picks, and was supported by his ground attack and a strong Kicking game from Stewart.

The Force now sit atop the division at 13-1 with a 5-1 division record but have dropped their first game since the start of the season. With playoffs locked in, the focus shifts to regrouping and shoring up an offense that has to find consistency against stronger defenses. The momentum they once held is challenged as Steamer, also at 13-1, continue their winning streak and tighten the grip on the division race.

Jeremy Ramirez will need to find answers quickly, especially in converting red zone opportunities and protecting his quarterback, as the postseason looms large. The Force’s mix of youth and experience now faces a test of character and resilience heading into these final weeks.

This loss is not just a single setback; it is a reminder that the Force cannot take their foot off the gas, even with a playoff spot secured. Their core strength has been offensive production and ball security—both areas that faltered under Steamer’s pressure. With time to adjust and the locker room rallying behind Ramirez’s leadership, the Force will need to press reset and return to their winning formula if they want to carry their regular-season dominance into the next stage of the season.