As the two best teams of the 2024 ELF season, Rhein Fire and the Vienna Vikings, prepare for the Championship Game, it’s time to take a closer look at the tactical strengths of both contenders. With insights from former Sea Devils Head Coach and current ELF Director of Football Operations, Andreas "Nommi" Nommensen, we dive into what makes Rhein Fire so dangerous on the field and what they need to do to secure victory. On Thursday we will do the same with the Vikings.

The defense: Key to success

While Rhein Fire’s offense, led by star running back Glen Toonga and a strong offensive line, is well-known, it’s their defense that has been fantastic this season. Defensive Coordinator Richard Kent has built a unit that is tough to beat, even against top-level opponents. "Rhein Fire has always managed to stand strong, especially against teams like Paris, Stuttgart, and Berlin," says Nommensen. The team has also proven its strength in close games, especially at the start of the season and in the Semifinals. "They’ve shown they can stay calm and focused under pressure."

Statistically, Rhein Fire’s defense is one of the best in the league. They rank second in passing defense, third in total yards allowed, and first in points allowed. This is even more impressive considering they did not have all their key players available throughout the season. "The defense is simply outstanding," Nommensen notes. "They played some games with fewer American players and still performed well."

Rhein Fire is also dangerous when it comes to turnovers, something the Vikings need to watch out for. Nommensen believes the strength of Fire’s defense comes from their physical presence at the line of scrimmage. "The defensive line and linebackers are very physical, creating pressure that leads to turnovers or mistakes."

Get your tickets for the 2024 Championship Game here!

The offense: Versatility is the key

Rhein Fire’s offense is certainly also a force to be reckoned with. While much of the focus is on Glen Toonga and his 34 rushing touchdowns, the team’s passing game is just as dangerous, with 29 passing touchdowns this season. "You can’t ignore the running game, but the passing attack is equally a threat," says Nommensen.

Apart from Toonga, quarterback Jadrian Clark is a key player. But it’s the offensive line that deserves special praise. "They play as a solid unit and are excellently coached. They are the silent heroes of the team," Nommensen adds. Among the homegrown players, Harlan Kwofie has also been crucial to the team’s success.

Rhein Fire is particularly effective in the red zone. "They are very efficient. If they get to the 20-yard line, it usually results in points," says Nommensen.

Can the Vikings learn from Stuttgart?

In the Semifinal against Stuttgart Surge, Rhein Fire’s running game was controlled for parts of the match. "Stuttgart showed that with a specific defensive setup, it is possible to control the running game," says Nommensen. If the Vikings want a chance to win, they need to replicate this strategy. With Toonga being the best running back in the league, stopping him is crucial. "Fire usually starts by establishing the run early in the game, which helps build confidence for both the quarterback and the running back," Nommensen explains.

Watch the Championship Game with the Game Pass!

Strength across the board

But Rhein Fire is not just strong on offense and defense; their special teams are also a significant asset. Their return team, featuring playmakers like Omari Williams and Franklin Jr., has been highly effective due to the many opportunities they get as a result of their defense forcing punts.

Another key aspect of Rhein Fire’s success is their ability to make adjustments during the game. "With Offensive Coordinator Andrew Weidinger and Quarterback Coach John Shoop on the sideline, they have the best of the best to adapt their game plan," Nommensen says. "And if things aren’t going well, the Head Coach steps in to make the necessary changes."

Nommensen also believes that Rhein Fire might use trick plays in the final. "They’ve shown some surprising plays in the past, like offensive linemen scoring touchdowns. They’ve been quiet about it lately, so it’s very possible we will see something special in the final."

Final thoughts

"This final is incredibly exciting," says Nommensen. "The Vienna Vikings are a well-established and successful franchise, while Rhein Fire, active for just three years, has already become highly successful." Both teams are well-coached and have impressed throughout the season. "Rhein Fire had a tougher road to the final, but Vienna has proven they can perform at the right moment. The key questions: Can the Vikings stop Glen Toonga and the running game? And can Rhein Fire break through the balanced attack of the Vikings? This will be a final full of tension and drama."

Get your tickets for the Championship Game here!