Blaze hope to extend roller-coaster ride tonight

Los Angeles, meanwhile, has had a bounce-back season after missing the playoffs a year ago with a 5-11 record. Prior to losing last week to the Blaze, the Avengers had won six of their previous eight games and three in a row, paced by second-year quarterback Sonny Cumbie. They had little to lose or to gain during last week's game with Utah — having already been locked into the No. 4 spot in the American Conference playoffs seeding before the game began. Now, however, L.A. has much more at stake.

"That game last week doesn't even matter," said Blaze defensive coordinator Hunkie Cooper. "L.A. was in a situation where they didn't even have to dress their starters. This week will be a better test. The winner of this game will deserve to advance in the playoffs."

So tonight the Blaze will find out if their 2007 roller-coaster ride will continue — or come to an abrupt halt. A trip to Lagoon — or even Disneyland — never had this much suspense.

Blazing into the playoffs

Utah Blaze (8-8)

at Los Angeles Avenger (9-7)

Tonight, 8 p.m.

Staples Center

TV: ESPN2

Radio: 1280 AM

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E-mail: lojo@desnews.com