1951 DANA Preview
The New York Marvels hope to multiply their win total from a year ago, provided they can avoid the injuries that derailed their defensive backfield for most of 1950. By acquiring front pocket Ellis Randolph with the #2 overall pick in the Draft, the Marvels are putting intense pressure on the young rookie to pull the team from the doghouse to playoff contention.
Across the river, the Brooklyn Coasters say goodbye to Ebbets Field and Flatbush, as team owner Ned Irish looks to cut his losses after operating the franchise at what is projected to be a loss of $550,000 USD by the end of the 1951 season. Given the lameduck status of the Coasters, expect the players to be distracted by the possibility of game checks bouncing midseason.
Last year, the Haymakers came one game short of the Grand Final. This year, they hope to build on the momentum to contend for a title.
In Detroit, the Roadsters will have to wait a little longer, as top draft choice Frederick Prusse will serve the tail end of his 2-year obligation with the Navy for the first five weeks of the 1951 season. Look for new acquisitions Leon Price and Jim Rosen to help tide fans over during Prusse's tour of duty.
In the City of Brotherly Love, the Spirits made a huge splash in the offseason. Philadelphia expects newcomers Casper Woodson and Bert Balaban can bring consistency to their attack. Look for Georges Lumiere to be a dual-threat on Philly's midfield. On defense, look for Alfred Ratner to be a hard-hitting back pocket befitting of a city that demands toughness from its heroes.