(S25) - PT 1 - Opening Statements

[J0EB]

Fourth year Safety for the Philadelphia Liberty, Matt Cross is severely slacking this year, both on and off the field. In the first quarter of the season, his stats total 25 tackles and a single sack. Entering this season, Cross and fellow defensive back Brandon Booker were tied for 3 consecutive seasons with an interception in week one, a league record (for Cross this streak extended even to his first and only season in the DSFL as well, making it a four year total). This season, that streak came to the end for them both in their week one match up against Baltimore. This was a disappointing moment for Cross especially, as starting the season out hot was a point of pride for him. This breaking point has led Cross to be quite unconfident in games recently, recording no interceptions or forced fumbles yet this year, and only making his first big impact play week 4 against Berlin with his first sack of the year. Against Sarasota, the "Son of Havoc" only had 4 tackles. While the team played a great game and won, Cross was mostly absent for the victory. While Cross may be on pace for his second 100 tackle season in his career, his lack of impact plays as a Playmaker with so much potential is seriously concerning.

After signing his 3 year, 9 million dollar extension with the team, the Liberty are certainly hoping that this slump from their veteran Safety is only temporary, and that he'll pick up the pace and live up to his nickname by causing some Havoc for opposing QBs.