ORLANDO, FL– After a disappointing road trip last week, the Jacksonville Sharks return to action this Sunday for a big in-state matchup against the Orlando Pirates. The Sharks will try to complete the sweep against the Pirates and secure their 10th win of the season.

The Sharks head to Orlando looking to bounce back after a tough road loss against the Green Bay Blizzard that snapped their 8-game winning streak. Despite the speed bump, Jacksonville has put together an impressive 9-2 record, maintaining a top spot standing in the conference. Unbeaten against the Pirates this season following an explosive 68-40 victory in the Tank back in April, the Sharks have proven they can completely dominate their neighbor rivals, but completing the season sweep will require their sharpest road execution of the year.

The Pirates come into this contest eager for redemption after their own tight battle on the road. Orlando had a chance for a comeback win last week but lost 52-50 on a last second Tulsa field goal. Despite the setback, the Pirates remain a dangerous and unpredictable opponent, especially at home, where they are undefeated. 

Orlando's path to victory relies on protecting the football and keeping the Sharks' defense guessing. The Pirates have one of the best RB's and kick returners in the league and will look to get him the ball often. They also have a talented receiving group led by Thomas Owens. The Pirates like to push the ball downfield and will look for the big play.  For Jacksonville to secure the road win, their defensive front must disrupt the pocket early, force negative plays, take away the short passing game, and most importantly, make open-field tackles. Forcing the Pirates into long-yardage situations and making them play from behind will give the Sharks' secondary the tactical edge they need to generate crucial turnovers.

For the Sharks, the formula hinges on sustaining the elite offensive rhythm that has defined their dominant stretches this season. Jacksonville will aim to control the tempo, establish consistency at the line of scrimmage, and take advantage of all scoring opportunities as they arise. Defensively, the emphasis will be on controlling the run game, applying steady pressure on the QB, eliminating the big play, creating turnovers, and setting up favorable field position for the offense.

Kickoff is 7:30 P.M. at the Kia Center. The game is being shown live on Yahoo! Sports and the Sharks watch party is at the Players Locker Room. Tickets for the June 28th game are available.  Don't miss the 1st ever inductee into the Sharks Ring of Honor, presented by Kia on Atlantic. For more information, go to Jaxsharks.com or call 904-621-0700

About the Jacksonville Sharks
The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the Indoor Football League (IFL). The 4X Champions play all their home games on True Vet Field at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. Sharks Season tickets for the 2026 season are now available. To become a Shark Nation member or for more information please call (904) 621-0700 or visit https://www.jaxsharks.com/shark-nation-memberships. Follow the Sharks on Facebook at facebook.com/jaxsharks and on Twitter and Instagram @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.