#1 Potsdam Royals
As the reigning champions of the previous season, the Royals enter the new campaign with high expectations. With their sights set on defending their title, they are prepared to face any challenge that comes their way.
With their passionate fan base rallying behind them, the Potsdam Royals are poised to continue their reign as one of the league's elite teams. Watch out for them as they strive for glory in the upcoming season.
#2 Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns
Despite a heartbreaking loss in the previous season's finale, the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns have quickly regrouped and are poised for redemption. With a storied history in the league, the Unicorns have consistently been a force to be reckoned with, and this season is no exception.
In a statement of their continued strength, the Unicorns showcased their dominance in the preseason by securing an emphatic 70-0 victory against the Fursty Razorbacks (GFL2). This commanding performance not only highlighted their offensive prowess but also underscored their defensive resilience.
#3 Dresden Monarchs
Despite a narrow defeat in the semifinals of the previous season and the departure of key players including their best receiver and quarterback, the Dresden Monarchs remain a formidable force in the league. Founded on a legacy of excellence, the Monarchs boast a strong organizational structure that has consistently propelled them to success.
Under the guidance of a new and experienced head coach, the Monarchs displayed their potential in the preseason, securing a convincing 30-7 victory against the Straubing Spiders. This victory not only showcased their depth and skill but also served as a testament to their unwavering determination.
#4 Newyorker Lions Braunschweig
As the reigning German record champions, the New Yorker Lions Braunschweig narrowly missed out on a finals berth in the previous season. However, they are not ones to dwell on setbacks. With a storied history of success behind them, the Lions are determined to reclaim their dominance on the gridiron.
In a promising start to the new season, the Lions showcased their prowess in the preseason, securing a commanding 38-9 victory against the Oldenburg Knights (GFL2). This resounding win not only demonstrated their strength on both ends of the field but also signaled their intent to once again contend for the championship title.
#5 Allgäu Comets
The Allgäu Comets have set the tone for the upcoming season with a resounding victory in the preseason. Their 61-0 triumph over the Nürnberg Rams (Div. III) served as a powerful statement of their strength and potential on the field.
Despite a premature exit in the first round of the playoffs last season, the Comets have regrouped and refocused their efforts. With their eyes set on a deeper postseason run this time around, they are driven by a relentless determination to succeed.
#6 Saarland Hurricanes
The Saarland Hurricanes showcased their prowess on the gridiron with an impressive performance last year, culminating in a memorable season. Despite their early exit in the playoffs' first round, the Hurricanes left an indelible mark with their remarkable achievements.
Although they didn't have the opportunity to participate in a preseason game this year, the Hurricanes have been hard at work honing their skills and refining their strategies.
#7 Berlin Rebels
The Berlin Rebels, who narrowly clinched a playoff spot last season, enter the new campaign with determination and resolve. Despite not having played a preseason game this year, the Rebels have been diligently preparing for the challenges ahead.
The recent unrest in the city, particularly among their local rivals, could potentially play into the Rebels' favor. As the chaos unfolds, the Rebels have an opportunity to capitalize on the distractions faced by their opponents and gain a competitive edge in the league.
#8 Straubing Spiders
The Straubing Spiders narrowly averted relegation last season through sheer determination and grit. Their hard-fought efforts ensured their survival in the league, setting the stage for a comeback story this year.
Despite their resilience, the Spiders faced a setback in the preseason, falling to defeat against the Dresden Monarchs. However, this loss has only fueled their hunger for success as they prepare to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season.
#9 Hildesheim Invaders
With an unbeaten record, the Hildesheim Invaders ascended to the first division as champions, marking their arrival with an aura of dominance. Despite the allure of higher competition, the team managed to retain its core, ensuring continuity in their pursuit of success.
In a commanding display of their capabilities, the Invaders secured a resounding victory in the preseason, overpowering the Bielefeld Bulldogs (GFL 2) with a scoreline of 62-7. This emphatic win served as a declaration of their readiness to contend at the highest level of competition.
#10 Kiel Baltic Hurricanes
Following a challenging season where they managed only one win, the Kiel Baltic Hurricanes narrowly escaped relegation due to the withdrawal of the Cologne Crocodiles. Determined to turn the tide, the team has bolstered its ranks with players, including some from Lübeck (GFL2), to enhance their chances for success this year.
In a promising start to their campaign, the Hurricanes secured a victory in the preseason, defeating the Hamburg Swans (Div. III). This early triumph serves as a testament to their renewed focus and determination to improve upon their previous performance.
#11 Paderborn Dolphins
After a hiatus of two decades, the Paderborn Dolphins made a triumphant return to the first division last season. Despite the long absence, they quickly asserted themselves as formidable contenders, narrowly missing out on the playoffs by the slimmest of margins.
However, the Dolphins faced an early setback this year, as they stumbled in the preseason, succumbing to the Düsseldorf Panthers (GFL2) with a score of 21-36. Yet, this defeat serves as a motivator for the Dolphins, igniting their determination to bounce back stronger.
#12 Berlin Adler
The Berlin Adler narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season, but they are determined to turn the tide in the upcoming campaign. However, they faced unexpected challenges this year, as they were forced to withdraw their second team and make changes to their coaching staff.
Despite these setbacks, the Adler are adapting with resilience. They have appointed their former quarterback and U19 head coach to lead the team into the new season. This transition signals a fresh start and a renewed focus on their goals.
Unfortunately, their preparations hit a snag as their preseason game against the Hamburg Pioneers (GFL2) had to be canceled. Nevertheless, the Adler remain undeterred, focusing on regrouping and refining their strategies for the challenges ahead.
#13 Munich Cowboys
The Munich Cowboys faced significant player departures to rival teams in the European League of Football (ELF), posing a challenge ahead of the upcoming season. Despite this, they narrowly secured their position in the league last season, narrowly avoiding relegation through their own efforts.
Looking towards the future, the Cowboys have made a promising move by appointing a highly regarded coach for the upcoming season. This decision signals a commitment to revitalizing the team and regaining competitiveness in the league.
#14 Kirchdorf Wildcats
For the second time, the Kirchdorf Wildcats have ascended to the first division, marking a significant milestone in their journey. However, their preseason preparations hit a bump as they faced defeat against old rivals, the Regensburg Phoenix (GFL2), with a close score of 31-26.
Despite this setback, the Wildcats remain undeterred as they gear up for the challenges of first division football. With a resilient spirit and a hunger for success, they are ready to prove themselves among the top teams in the league.
#15 ifm Razorbacks Ravensburg
The ifm Razorbacks Ravensburg are set to compete in the top division this year, following a stroke of luck as the Marburg Mercenaries withdrew from the league. This fortunate turn of events grants the Razorbacks the opportunity to showcase their talents on the highest stage.
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