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Storm routs Cleveland

 
The Storm got a late Michael Lindsey net recovery for a 4-yard score.
The Storm got a late Michael Lindsey net recovery for a 4-yard score.
Published July 24, 2017

TAMPA — Alvin Ray Jackson intercepted two passes, returning one for a touchdown, and recovered two fumbles as the Storm routed Cleveland 57-27 Saturday night in its home regular-season finale at Amalie Arena.

Tampa Bay (10-3) enjoyed its largest victory margin of the season thanks its defense, which added two more turnovers on downs and got a late Michael Lindsey net recovery for a 4-yard score.

Cleveland (4-9) scored only twice on offense, getting an interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter and returning a botched handoff in the game's final minute.

Storm quarterback Randy Hippeard (22-of-36, 234 yards) threw for five touchdowns, two each to Joe Hills (10 receptions, 121 yards) and Kendrick Ings (seven catches for 82 yards).

Hippeard also finished off an eight-minute drive to end the first half, scoring on a 1-yard run with no time left for a 28-13 lead.

Jackson's second interception came on the second play of the third quarter, leading to a 27-yard scoring pass to Ings. Then Jackson recovered the ensuing kickoff, and two plays later it was 41-13.

The Storm has a bye week before finishing the regular season at Philadelphia, the top seed for the playoffs. Tampa Bay has secured the No. 2 seed and will host a playoff game Aug. 14.