QB Michna, receivers step up for McMillen

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Updated: August 27, 2011 12:32AM

Rush coach Bob McMillen might’ve had difficulty recognizing his offense Saturday night.

Entering the game against the New Orleans VooDoo at Allstate Arena, the Rush ranked last in the Arena Football League in passing.

But quarterback Russ Michna completed 17 of 22 passes for 213 yards and six touchdowns as the Rush cruised to a 50-28 victory.

“We did a great job up front, and when you protect well in this game, it’s easy,” Michna said. “I got touched once all night, and that was on a busted protection.

“We just need to continue to self-reflect and self-scout ourselves and make sure we get better each week.”

The game was never close. Rush defensive lineman Quartez Vickerson forced a safety on the VooDoo’s second possession.

On the next Rush drive,
Michna connected with receiver Tod Devoe on a five-yard pass that gave the Rush a nine-point lead.

The Rush (5-2) went on a 29-7 run to end the first half.

After the Rush committed four turnovers — including three fumbled snaps by Michna — in last week’s 58-51 loss to the Kansas City Command, McMillen publicly chastised his offense and threatened to make changes.

He was unhappy with the play of his receivers and their inability to get separation. Reggie Gray answered his coach’s call with nine receptions for 165 yards and three touchdowns.

“The guys stepped up,’’ McMillen said.

“They knew who was being looked at to go.’’

The night was particularly memorable for McMillen, whose No. 44 was retired in a halftime ceremony.

He played linebacker and fullback for the Rush from 2003 to 2007.

‘‘Everything that happened at halftime was great,” McMillen said. ‘‘I’m honored and overwhelmed, but I’m just focused on this team getting better.”

The Rush’s defense enjoyed another stellar outing despite some unexpected absences.

Starting defensive linemen Joe Clermond (groin) and Stanley McClover (family issues) were scratches this week.

But the Rush still came up with four sacks and forced seven turnovers against New Orleans (1-6).