PHILADELPHIA, PA -- Tony Graziani threw a franchise-record nine touchdown passes, including four to free agent acquisition Chris Jackson, as the Philadelphia Soul defeated the Orlando Predators, 77-56 in the Arena Football League season opener Saturday night before 17,689 at the Wachovia Center.

Graziani, whose separated shoulder scuttled the Soul’s championship hopes last year, connected with Jackson on passes of 9, 29, 13 and 10 yards as the Soul maintained the lead throughout the game, including a 35-22 margin at the half.  The team, co-owned by rock star Jon Bon Jovi, scored the first two touchdowns of the second half and never looked back.

Soul kick returner Mike Brown had a 56-yard runback for a touchdown and another 50-yarder to set up a fourth quarter Graziani to Jackson touchdown. Wide receiver Larry Brackins had three touchdown catches from Graziani.

The game marked a successful reunion for Graziani and Jackson, who spent four years together with the Los Angeles Avengers at the outset of their careers. Jackson, a Philadelphia area native, is one of the best receivers in the history of the Arena League.

Orlando quarterback Shane Stafford hit T.T. Toliver and Chas Gessner for four touchdowns each to keep Orlando in the game.