Predators new quarterback starts season off on right foot

Orlando+Predators+quarterback%2C+Jason+Boltus+was+named+the+Russell+Athletic+Offensive+Player+of+the+Game+for+his+performance+against+the+Jacksonville+Sharks.

Bryce Brimhall / Valencia Voice

Orlando Predators quarterback, Jason Boltus was named the Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Game for his performance against the Jacksonville Sharks.

The Orlando Predators have completely turned their organization end-over-end this past year, and it seems it was for the better. With a new majority owner, new head coach and an almost completely new roster, the team is looking for a championship season. Heading the charge toward the playoffs is quarterback Jason Boltus.

Boltus joined the team this year coming after a one season stint with the Utah Blaze, where now-Predators head coach Rob Keefe was defensive coordinator at the time.

On the Blaze, Boltus threw for 118 of 188 passes, gaining a total of 1,425 yards and 31 touchdowns in 14 of the seasons 18 games, after filling in for former AFL MVP Tom Grady.

The newcomer played his first game under center for the Predators on Sunday, March 16 against the Jacksonville Sharks, leading Orlando to a 49-47 victory over their rivals from the North.

“Every game is a big game, but this is start of a new franchise, for myself and coach Keefe,” said Boltus about his first appearance with the Predators. “It’s my first time being in Orlando, and it couldn’t be a better feeling to start the season 1-0.”

Boltus came out swinging in the season opener. as he completed 17-33 passes for 176 yards and four touchdown. He didn’t hesitate to show his versatility as a quarterback either, rushing the ball for a total of 46-yards and scoring another two touchdowns for his team.

The receiving core kept up with Boltus’ good performance, as wide receivers Braylon Bell and Khalil Paden both connected with Boltus for two touchdowns each.

“We’ve run so many plays, we have a high tempo practice, high tempo walkthroughs, I have such a good chemistry with all the receivers,” said Boltus. “I don’t want to feel uncomfortable with any guy running the route, I want him to believe that he can win, and I want to believe that he can win.”

Boltus will look to continue his hot streak on Friday, March 21, against the newly established Los Angeles KISS at the CFE Arena located on the UCF campus.

Tickets for this game, as well as information on season tickets can be found by calling the Predators ticketing office at 407-648-4444 or on their website at https://orlandopredators.com/tickets/