Vikings: "Focus on ourselves" ahead of Fire game
Felix Pahl
© Hannes JirgalIn Week 7, the Vienna Vikings will welcome Rhein Fire to Generali Arena for one of the biggest games of the ELF season (Saturday, 18:00 CET). It’s a rematch of the 2024 Championship Game - and a replay of their Week 3 thriller, which the Vikings won 12–7.
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Home field advantage for Vienna
For the Vikings, this matchup couldn’t come at a better place: at home. The Generali Arena offers a familiar environment and loud support from fans. "It’s extremely important. We don’t have to travel, and we expect a record crowd for a home game", said Vikings head coach Chris Calaycay. "We can sleep in our own beds and perform in familiar surroundings."
Fire with momentum and new OC
Rhein Fire is coming to Vienna with a lot of confidence. After a dominant 43–0 win over the Hamburg Sea Devils, they’ve also made a key coaching change. The team announced that veteran coach Fred Armstrong will now serve as the new Offensive Coordinator and Assistant Head Coach.
This change adds a new challenge for Vienna: "We don’t know how long Fred Armstrong has been there - maybe just since they announced it, maybe longer", said Calaycay. "We can’t really say how much will change, so we need to stay focused on ourselves and be ready to adjust during the game."
Watch the Week 3 highlights of Vikings at Fire!
Facing a strong Rhein Fire defense
Even with changes on offense, Fire’s defense remains the team’s biggest strength. "Rhein Fire’s defense is strong", said Calaycay. "Their defensive line is great, and they have guys flying around in the defensive backfield who can intercept passes." Quarterback Ben Holmes added: "They have playmakers all over the field - it’s a tough defense to play against."
Key changes for the Vikings
The Vikings also have news to share. Star tight end Florian Bierbaumer is back in the lineup after missing the start of the season with an injury. He already showed his value with a spectacular one-handed catch in Week 4 against the Raiders.
On defense, the Vikings suffered a loss as American DB Amani Dennis was placed on Injured Reserve. To replace him, they brought in former Raiders Tirol standout Devin Taylor. "We don’t care where a player played before - even if it was in the NFL", said Calaycay. "Injuries usually happen early in the week, so we prepare in advance and have a list of possible replacements. Devin joined us today, and we’ll see how much he can play. But he has European experience and was one of the best cornerbacks in the league last season."
All eyes on Vienna
With both teams aiming for the top of the standings and big names returning to the field, fans can expect a hard-fought battle in one of the most iconic venues in the ELF.
This Week 7 matchup between the Vikings and Rhein Fire is more than just a rematch - it’s a clash between two championship-level teams, and it could shape the road to the playoffs.