Backs against the wall: Raiders chase postseason

The Raiders Tirol enter the final stretch of the regular season, and while their playoff hopes remain alive, they are heading into a high-stakes game with major playoff implications. Last weekend’s defeat to playoff rivals Madrid Bravos was a setback – the Raiders now stand at an even 5-5. 

"We have to win our 1 vs. 1 battles" – Raiders prepare for final showdown 

With two regular season games remaining, the Raiders Tirol first travel to face defending champions Rhein Fire, who are also still fighting for a playoff spot, before finishing the regular season at home against the winless Cologne Centurions. Even with just two Weeks left, the playoff race remains tighter than ever: eight teams are still in contention for three remaining spots. Updated projections currently give the Raiders only a 2 percent chance of reaching the playoffs. One thing is certain: a perfect finish alone won’t guarantee their playoff spot – they’ll need mistakes from other contenders to reach the postseason. The Raiders players are aware of this. Wide receiver Jacorey Sullivan said in an interview with the ELF: "We have a week off to heal up and play our final two games. During this time, we should criticize ourselves and figure out how each of us individually can win our 1 vs. 1 against opposing teams." He added: "All in all, it’s a blessing to have another two games. I’m very excited to have another chance to win."

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Using the bye Week to recharge

The league-wide bye Week gives the players a chance "to rest and receive treatment to ensure we’re in the best possible condition to compete," as Raiders cornerback Dijon Walls explained. Running back Lukas Haslwanter also uses the Week "to spend quality time with family and friends."

Top performers focused on team success

CB Walls and RB Haslwanter are two key players who can make the difference in crucial games. Haslwanter, now in his fourth season with the Raiders Tirol, is one of the most experienced players in the ELF. 805 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns making him the league’s top-performing running back so far this season. Haslwanter points to his Raiders Tirol coaches, who had a major impact on developing his style on the field: "I had some incredible running back coaches during my time with the Raiders who helped shape me into the player I am today." Asked about his personal goals for the final stretch of the season, he answered humble: "My goal is to improve every day, as a player and as a teammate to help my team win games. Personal achievements are nice, but at the end of the day, it’s all about winning together as a team."

Personal improvement is also a key focus for CB Walls, who is in his first ELF season and has already recorded three interceptions this year – two of them in the opening two games. "My focus is solely on improving as a team and maintaining consistency as a player," he said. "I’m continuously working on my skills and identifying areas for improvement," he added.

Watch the Gazi Hero Plays of Week 11 here!

Why the ELF is more competitive than ever 

One reason the playoff race is so thrilling this season is the progress the league has made. Lukas Haslwanter remarks: "I think the level of play in the ELF has improved every year. The league gives players the opportunity to compete against the best in Europe, and it’s clear that the top talents on the continent are playing in the league."

Must-win matchup: Raiders prepare for crucial game against Rhein Fire 

To stay in the playoff race, the upcoming game against Rhein Fire is a must-win for the Raiders – essentially a playoff decider, as everyone involved knows. "We have to work together as a team. This game is about who can play all four quarters and who is most determined," said Cornerback Dijon Walls. Lukas Haslwanter added: "Rhein Fire is a very strong team, and playing at their home stadium is probably one of the tougher away games because of their fanbase. We need to play Raiders football, stay focused, and execute the details – that’s what it’ll take to win."

Kickoff for the Raiders Tirol at Rhein Fire game is scheduled for Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 16:25 CET. The Raiders will do everything they can to finish the regular season with two wins and keep their playoff hopes alive. "When I leave that field, I want to know I gave my team and fans everything I had," said Jacorey Sullivan.

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