CLEVELAND One rough series and Chris Dieker got the hook.
Shane Austin was more than ready, leading the Cleveland Gladiators to a 54-47 victory over the visiting Iowa Barnstormers. Coach said all week for both of us to just stay ready and stay prepared, Austin said. Every game, whether I m the backup or the starter, I always prepare myself mentally as a starter.
Austin finished 19-of-27 for 259 yards and six touchdowns. Chris is struggling a bit, and we ve started off slow every game almost, coach Steve Thonn said. We really wanted to get a quick start so it s really not so much against Chris. It s just that Shane is good.