The Green Bay Blizzard hosted the IFL Eastern Conference Championship, facing off against the Massachusetts Pirates in a battle for a spot in the IFL National Championship game.

This championship game got started with Massachusetts in possession of the football. The Pirates capped off a six-minute drive with a rushing touchdown from quarterback Alejandro Bennifield to put the Pirates up 7-0. Green Bay's offense then took the field for their first drive of the game and also struck paydirt when running back Jalyn Cagle found the endzone to knot it up at 7-7. Massachusetts quickly responded, needing only two plays to score another touchdown. Bennifield connected with wide receiver Teo Redding, putting the Pirates back on top 14-7. 

Green Bay's next drive shifted momentum in favor of the Massachusetts Pirates. E.J. Burgess would fumble the football, giving possession back to the Pirates. Massachusetts then scored three unanswered touchdowns with all momentum on their side, including a pick-six by defensive back Matt Elam. After the dust settled, the Pirates led the game 34-7. The Blizzard were able to get on the board once more before the half came to a close with a receiving touchdown to Jayln Cagle, ending the half with the Pirates up 34-14. 

To open up the second half, the Blizzard had the football, but their drive was again killed with another turnover. This time, a fumble by Jalyn Cagle gave the ball back to the Pirates. Massachusetts would then waste no time getting into the endzone with a one-play 38-yard touchdown to Isaac Zico. Green Bay answered with a touchdown from E.J. Burgess to try and keep themselves in this game at 41-22. 

As the game entered the fourth quarter, the Pirates had possession and opted for a field goal attempt by former Blizzard kicker Henry Nell. However, Nell missed the kick, leaving the score unchanged. Green Bay, with an opportunity from the missed kick, was unable to capitalize as they turned the ball over on downs. Massachusetts would tally three more points on their next drive from a field goal, making it a 20-point game at 44-22. The Blizzard found the endzone once more with a rushing touchdown from Max Meylor, his 30th rushing touchdown of the year to make it 44-28. Then, to add insult to injury, the Pirates would get in the endzone again, capping off their 51-28 victory and sealing a spot in the IFL National Championship.

The Blizzard finished the season at 14-4. This is the best record in franchise history. Even though they came up short this year, this is a season Blizzard fans will always remember. 

The Pirates will await their opponent for the IFL National Championship game, which will be determined on Monday night. The Arizona Rattlers will host the San Diego Strike Force, with the winner earning the chance to represent the Western Conference in the big game.

Written By: Casey Hibbard