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In funny flick Little Giants, former NFL defensive end Steve Emtman confidently posits that football is 80 percent mental and 40 percent physical. The Arizona Rattlers might argue that the game’s more about having equally strong defensive and offensive lines. After all, if it were solely about offense, the Rattlers, who took the lead in last year’s Arena Bowl with 21 seconds remaining, likely would have a third Arena Bowl title. But, defense matters, too, and because the Rattlers’ D faltered, the team has one fewer banner hanging in the rafters.
The Rattlers offense, quarterbacked by reigning MVP Nick Davila, should be every bit as potent this season as it was last year. But if they up last season’s showing, it will be on the backs of an improved defense.
Sat., March 17, 7 p.m., 2012
