I didn't have a chance to post a recap after leaving the game last night, but, make no mistake, the game changed when GB inserted Brad Fina into the lineup at QB.
That kid played phenomenally. For those that aren't aware, he was the starting QB but suffered a shoulder injury early in the season (game 2 against Cosumnes Oaks, I believe) that kept him sidelined most of the season.
Down 21-3 to start the 4th, he made 3 pin-point accurate deep throws that either resulted or led to TD's. Those balls couldn't have been thrown any better.
The Pacers had that game within their grasp and, suddenly, Fina and the Grizzlies defense snatched it.
GB's defense was really good against the run most the night. All of the Pacers scores were off explosive plays either in the pass game or on special teams.
Two plays in particular really hurt the Pacers and prevented them from winning.
First, Mike Green's extra effort to fight and spin to get into the end zone from 8-yards out resulted in a fumble just before he crossed the plane. Football is a game of inches and if that had gone the Pacers way, they likely win.
Secondly, after being pinned inside their 5, DeShawn Collins broke off a 90 yard run that had the Pacers 1st and goal from inside the Grizzlies 5. That play was wiped out by a completely avoidable illegal formation penalty.
Those 2 plays really came back to haunt the Pacers.
That all said, Granite Bay should be commended for the way they stepped up and took the game from the Pacers. They were able to take advantage of most every opportunity they were given, especially in the 4th quarter. Not every team can do that.
HUGE win for GB and the SFL.
