2016 Week 13 Preview: Sharks vs Gladiators

(photo credit: Cleveland Gladiators/Twitter)

The rematch of the underachievers is underway this weekend as the Jacksonville Sharks (5-6) take on the Cleveland Gladiators (6-6). The game is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. Like last season, many people are just waiting for the Sharks to make some noise and get hot. The combo of Joe Hills and "Tiger" Jones appeared to be over Wednesday, if you had an ear on the rumor mill, but owner Jeff Bouchy thought otherwise, right before the trade deadline.

Both players rank in the top 10 in receiving yards this season. Jones, the AFL's second most active leader in receptions, appears to have some trouble clicking with the coaching staff which should not be too much of a shock given the expectations for a team that made it to the Arena Bowl last season. A must win type game with a balanced attack, should set up a heck of an game on both sides as Cleveland tries to hold onto that precious final home field spot for the first round of the playoffs.

Last time out the Gladiators pulled off a slight upset at home 41-40. The Gladiators overcame a 19-point deficit and did not allow the Sharks to score in the fourth quarter.

Who To Watch For:

Cleveland: Arvell Nelson

15 passing touchdowns in the last two weeks is what Nelson has provided. He also ranks fifth in touchdown passes. Not bad for a guy that was playing defense in Week 1.

Jacksonville: Tommy Grady.

With part of the receiving corps maybe not on the greatest terms with Coach Les Moss, who has been feeling some heat as well, the Sharks really need a strong effort from their quarterback. Grady, ranks second in quarterback rating and passing completion percentage. Cleveland only gave up 49 points last week on the road at Portland and with the Sharks only being 1-4 when home this season, it will be very important for Grady to start strong.