Hoboken, NJ - TD’s in Your Face took on First & Zinz for their first round playoff matchup, a highly anticipated rematch of their previous 6-point affair. To start, both teams were competitive and showed great poise on offense. TD’s in Your Face, however, came out much better on the defensive side of the ball, where First & Zinz was lacking. Add in the feeling that they were not getting some calls their way, and it did not spell out a great first half for First & Zinz. Their only highlight was the touchdown form quarterback Felix Jiang to receiver Brian Macellara. Jiang also completed 8 of his 14 pass attempts. TD’s in Your Face, on the other hand, were rolling. This included quarterback Mike Mule’s, who was 11 of 13 passing and responsible for multiple touchdowns. Michael Tufano also came through in a huge way for TD's in Your Face, as he ended the first half with a pick six to extend the lead to 28-6 at the half.
The second half started much better for First & Zinz on the defensive end. They gained some momentum and showed greater motivation, which looked like it was carrying over to their offense as well. Jiang was 6 for 6 out of the break with a touchdown to Anthony Nehlsen, who also registered a sack. TD’s in Your Face seemed to fall out a rhythm on a few plays but didn't let it derail them. First & Zinz tried to mount a come back, but Tufano came through again to put the game out a reach. He continued to make big plays in the second half, including his huge interception that would lead his team to the mercy rule victory by a score of 35-13. TD's in Your Face sends last year's champs home packing early, advancing to the semifinal round in hopes of earning their first championship.