2016 Week 4 Preview: Soul vs Gladiators

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For the 1-2 Cleveland Gladiators, their season has already had as many twists and turns as the party who's upending their schedule. However, the only contest they have to worry about now is this week's game against the 2-1 Philadelphia Soul. This is the first time the Gladiators leave the friendly confines this season, and they visit an opponent who already beat them on their own floor.

The good news is that the two teams are in different conferences, the bad news is that Cleveland (and everyone out west, for that matter) is starting down Arizona, so while it is only Week 4, the phrase "must-win" will be unlocked and bandied about.

What to Watch for:

Offense: Dennis Havrilla. He's now the guy behind center, and has already compiled a 1-1 record while throwing for 455 yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions in two games. However, can the man who as mainly spent time as a backup continue this trend as a starter against one of the most aggressive defenses in the league? Will he have the time to execute throws to Dominick Goodman or Collin Taylor like he did against LA?

If the Gladiators want to host a first-round game, this is one of the weeks you turn to for a critical W. He has to be much more crisp and efficient on the short fade and intermediate routes if he has any hope of keeping the Soul defense honest enough for shots at a deep ball, because if his line doesn't give him time to stay upright, this could be another Chris Dieker situation all over again, which would lead to a loooong ride home.

Defense: The front three. Can Randy Colling and Collin Keoshian add to their sacks and tackles for loss, or will Dan Raudabaugh have another easy night? Who will be the lucky receiver that goes against Joe Powell and his four interceptions?

Cleveland can't simply rely on their secondary and getting pick-sixes, because Philadelphia loves some good track meets, and if they have to, they'll force one early and make the Gladiators offense play catchup. Keep in mind, they've scored 60+ twice already in just three weeks.

These two will have the spotlight to themselves, as kickoff is set for 4:00 pm, the first of only three games in Week 4. This will also be the lone national broadcast, as the bright lights of CBS Sports Network will join Cleveland at the Wells Fargo Center.