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Gladiators QB Chris Dieker was benched for the second half of last week's win over New Orleans but will get the start in Friday's home opener against the Iowa Barnstormers.

(Joshua Gunter / The Plain Dealer)

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Chris Dieker will start at quarterback when the Gladiators play host to the Iowa Barnstormers on Friday night at The Q. Whether Dieker finishes the game is not guaranteed.

Dieker began the season as the No. 1 QB, with Shane Austin as the backup. Dieker accounted for nine touchdowns in a 63-53 victory at Pittsburgh in Week 1. He was named Arena Football League “MVP,’’ or player of the week.

After a bye, the Gladiators traveled to Louisiana last weekend to visit the New Orleans Voodoo. Dieker struggled in the first half and, with the offense stagnant, coach Steve Thonn hooked him for Austin. The move paid off as Austin accounted for five TDs in engineering a comeback that resulted in a 37-26 victory. Austin was named AFL player of the week.

Thonn had known what he might create – the dreaded quarterback controversy – but he had a game to win.

“Chris didn’t have a great half in New Orleans,’’ Thonn said. “It wasn’t all his fault, but we weren’t putting up points. We needed a spark, and that’s why I made the change. Shane ended up giving us that spark. He played very well.’’

As preparation for Iowa (1-1) commenced, Thonn told his quarterbacks that Dieker remains the starter. But there is an expectation tied to that status.

“Chris knows he needs to play well, especially early,’’ Thonn said. “He knows he needs to produce. I think he’s up for the challenge.’’

Regardless of quarterback, the Gladiators have been able to win because their defense is flying around the turf. Defensive back Marrio Norman intercepted four passes against New Orleans.

“The guys have been very physical, and they’re playing with a lot of confidence,’’ Thonn said. “This is a fun group to coach.’’

Kickoff for the home opener is scheduled for 7:30.