Orlando Storm head coach Anthony Becht isn't concerned about facing the DC Defenders for a third time this season. After leading his team to an 8-2 regular season record and the top playoff seed, Becht remains confident his process will deliver when it matters most.
The Storm will host their playoff opener against DC this Sunday at Daytona Beach's venue, roughly an hour from Orlando, after Inter&Co Stadium became unavailable due to scheduling conflicts.
Championship Promise Still On Track
When asked about his preseason championship promise, Becht didn't back down. "It's coming, it's coming. One step at a time, right?" he said during his weekly media session.
"You know, I was really optimistic before the season started. I met with a bunch of you guys and told you that I would deliver a product to this city of Orlando. So you can't call me a liar for those who I told that to, number one."
Becht's confidence stems from his team's dominant regular season performance and their previous two victories over DC. The Storm has established itself as the league's premier defensive unit in key categories.
Elite Defense Leading The Way
The numbers back up Becht's swagger. Orlando leads the UFL in the metrics that matter most.
"From last time I checked, defense is about how many points you give up. We're number 1 in scoring defense. We're number 1 in third down defense. We're number 1 in red zone defense. I think those things matter."
The Storm defense has been stingy in critical moments, allowing just 17 touchdowns in 115 drives this season - five fewer than any other team. Players like Nate Brooks have stepped up in crucial moments, recording four pass breakups and an interception in their last meeting with DC.
Nate Brooks' Breakout Performance
Becht called out Brooks for his dominant showing against DC's struggling quarterback Jason Bean. "I called him out in the team meeting. I'm like, Nate, like, you sat in my office when I signed you and brought you in," Becht said. "Where did this come from? Like, what did you eat? What were you drinking before the game?"
Social Media Engagement Pays Off
The venue change to Daytona Beach has actually worked in Orlando's favor. Becht's active social media presence has helped build buzz around the team, and the closer location should draw more fans.
"Well, you know, listen, that I've been doing that for 4 years. Like, that's part— that was part of the reason why I told them to hire me, because I can help with that."
Becht handles his own social media, filming quick videos and engaging directly with fans. When one fan complained about the 49-minute drive to Daytona, Becht called him out publicly, ensuring he'd have to show up.
Third Time's The Charm
Playing the same opponent three times in one season brings unique challenges, but Becht has done his homework. He's researched teams across major sports that faced similar situations and found plenty of success stories.
"You don't got to beat them 3 times in a row. It's this game," Becht emphasized. His message to the team remains simple: stick to their proven process and execute.
The Storm will need to contain DC's rushing attack, particularly quarterback Jason Bean's mobility, which has kept the Defenders competitive in their previous meetings. But with the league's top defense and home-field advantage in Daytona, Becht believes his championship promise is one step closer to reality.