GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) John Fitzgerald threw eight touchdown passes and Aaron Bailey had a team-record six TD receptions, leading the Carolina Cobras to a 65-49 victory over the defending champion Grand Rapids Rampage in the opening round of the Arena League playoffs Sunday.

Fitzgerald, who spent part of the 2000 and 2001 seasons with the Rampage, completed 25 of 34 passes for 278 yards. Bailey, who shared MVP honors with Fitzgerald, had 10 catches for 172 yards.

Clint Dolezel completed 30 of 45 passes for 349 yards and eight touchdowns for the Rampage. Willis Marshall finished with 11 catches for 132 yards and three touchdowns.

The Rampage cut a 17-point deficit to eight points with 13 seconds left. Carolina recovered Grand Rapids' onside kick and ran out the clock.

Carolina will face the Arizona Rattlers in the second round of the playoffs on Sunday, Aug. 4.

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