The Mahoning Valley Thunder were an average expansion team in 2007. The team won its first three contests, but then dropped five in a row. The team was made up of many former Youngstown State players. Despite competition from a failed rival league, the Thunder drew very well in attendance. In 2008, the Thunder took several steps backwards. After an opening season 59-33 win over Albany, the team dropped seven straight and would only win two more games. No quarterback played in more than eight games. Shane Adler passed for 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. The team did not produce any 1,000 yard receivers, and the closest was Clenton Rafe, with 629. The defense intercepted just nine passes. The Thunder turnover margin was -34. In 2009, it was much of the same for the team. An opening weekend win against Albany gave way to a 13 game losing streak. Coach Mike Hold was fired and the team went through four quarterbacks. They combined for 40 interceptions. Nine fumbles were returned for touchdowns against the Thunder. Former Youngstown State quarterback Brian Zetts was the quarterback for the final three games of the year and he led the Thunder to an upset victory in Manchester, 41-39. Standout kick returner and wide receiver Quorey Payne caught 86 passes for 1,300 yards and 26 scores, while amassing 1,407 yards in kick returns and four touchdowns. Following the 2009 season, the Thunder folded.