AAF Week 7 Review: Shaquille Richardson and Steven Johnson among standout performers for Arizona

While the Orlando Apollos became the first AAF team to earn a playoff berth this season on Saturday, recording their sixth win of the year with a 36-6 victory over the Atlanta Legends, it was the limited snaps that Johnny Manziel saw at quarterback for the Memphis Express on Sunday night that drew most of the media’s attention.

But the real hero on the day for Memphis under center was Brandon Silvers, finishing the day with 24 completions for 266 yards, two touchdowns and two 2-point conversation in an overtime win at home against the Birmingham Iron.

Week 7 results:

Orlando Apollos 36 @ Atlanta Legends 6

Salt Lake Stallions 15 @ San Antonio Commanders 19

San Diego Fleet 15 @ Arizona Hotshots 32

Birmingham Iron 25 @ Memphis Express 31 (OT)

Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Terrence Garvin was once again one of the standout performers for the playoff bound Apollos, recording five solo tackles and a forced fumble, while tight end Scott Orndoff was held to just one reception in the game.

The Iron lost their third game of the season in heartbreaking fashion to Memphis, and it was a quiet day from many of the former Steelers on Birmingham’s roster. L’Damian Washington was targeted just once all game long, after recording 158 yards from 10 receptions and score two touchdowns the week before, and Casey Sayles would finish the game with only one tackle.

Former Pittsburgh running backs Terrell Watson of the San Diego Fleet and Trey Williams of the San Antonio Commanders had varying levels of success over the weekend. Watson would manage 44 yards from his 10 attempts and also score a touchdown, but Williams would end the game with just 19 yards from his six carries.

Shaquille Richardson and Steven Johnson of the Arizona Hotshots were arguably the most impressive former members of the Black and Gold in Week 7. Richardson lead his team in tackles with eight and also recorded an interception and a forced fumble, while Johnson added seven tackles of his own and also had an interception.

Week 7 Highlights:

Orlando Apollos 36 @ Atlanta Legends 6

Salt Lake Stallions 15 @ San Antonio Commanders 19

San Diego Fleet 15 @ Arizona Hotshots 32

Birmingham Iron 25 @ Memphis Express 31 (OT)