The Spring League – Aviators vs Conquerors

The Spring League (TSL) returns for the 2021 season with two new teams – the Linemen and Sea Lions – a longer season and two new hub markets.

TSL’s 2021 season features eight teams, competing in a six-week regular season from two hub markets. Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana will play host to TSL’s North Division and consist of the Conquerors, led by Head Coach Jerry Glanville, Aviators, Alphas, and Linemen. The South Division will be headquartered in Houston, Texas and be comprised in part of the returning league champion Generals, coached by Bart Andrus, and Blues. Two former NFL head coaches, round out the remaining two teams in the South Division. Mike Riley, who served as the San Diego Chargers head coach for three seasons will lead the Sea Lions, one of two expansion teams for the 2021 season. Riley also served as head coach at Oregon State (1997-1998, 2003-2014) and Nebraska (2015-2017). The Jousters will have Kevin Gilbride at the helm. Gilbride spent 20 years in the NFL including seven years as offensive coordinator of the New York Giants, winning two Super Bowl rings along the way. From 1997-1998, Gilbride served as head coach of the San Diego Chargers.

The 2021 season will kickoff on Thursday, May 6 with a doubleheader from Lucas Oil Stadium. The Division champions will advance to the 2021 TSL Championship that takes place Saturday, June 19.

The 2021 season features a couple of new rules that aim to improve the game, specifically introducing a new overtime format as well as enhanced protection for the quarterback. In the new “spot and choose” overtime, the team that wins the overtime coin toss will pick the spot of the ball, while the other team will choose whether to play offense or defense.

“We have been innovators since we launched in 2017 and will continue to experiment with new technology and rule modifications to enhance the viewing experience for our fans and make the game safer at all levels,” said Brian Woods, CEO of TSL.