"We have to be ready" – Vienna Vikings set for divisional clash

The Vienna Vikings are 7-1 and coming off a big win in Paris, but Week 10 brings another tough challenge against a division rival. This Saturday, they face the 5-3 Wroclaw Panthers – another team fighting for a playoff spot. It’s a key matchup in the ELF playoff race, and the Vikings know it won’t be easy. “Wroclaw can be a very dangerous team,” said Vikings head coach Chris Calaycay. “We’ve had a tough time playing up there in the past.”

Facing another dual-threat quarterback

Just like last week against Paris, the Vikings will once again face a mobile quarterback. DJ Irons has become one of the best rushing quarterbacks in the league – and he can pass, too. “We’re expecting the same style we saw last week,” Calaycay explained. “DJ Irons is one of the top rushers in the league. He’s a great athlete and a real weapon.” Because they just faced a similar offense, the Vikings feel more prepared. “Having it back-to-back helps a little,” said Calaycay. “But we’ll have to keep him under control and not give up long runs.”

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Offensive weapons and depth will be key

Vienna’s offense has improved every week - and proved it again with a 40-point performance against Paris. Quarterback Ben Holmes has many targets, and the coaching staff does a good job using them all. “We’ve got different types of players,” said Calaycay. “Reece Horn is not the same as Yannick Mayr or Noah Toure. We have to use them all efficiently. That gives us confidence.”

The Vikings will also rely on their depth. After several injuries in the Paris game, new players will have to step up. But the Vikings are ready. “It was a costly game,” Calaycay admitted. “We lost five guys in one position group. But our team is deep. Leo Gerner came in and made a huge interception. That shows how ready our guys are when they get a chance.”

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Roster updates before the deadline

Right before the ELF signing deadline, the Vikings made key roster moves. Defensive backs Elmeri Laalo and Amani Dennis returned from injury and replaced Devin Taylor and Viljo Lempinen. “That was always the plan,” Calaycay said. “Elmeri and Amani are leaders and playmakers. We waited until they were fully healthy. It was tough to say goodbye to Devin, but now we’re getting back to full strength.”

Ready for the challenge

The Vikings are focused and motivated to keep winning. Wrocław is a strong team, but Vienna is prepared. “If we take care of business and execute, we’ll be successful,” said Calaycay. “But this is a serious challenge, and we have to be ready.”

The game kicks off this Saturday – and fans can expect a close, exciting battle between two strong teams.

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