Key Points
- Dynamic Debuts: Dalton Sneed’s impactful debut for the Arizona Rattlers with three touchdowns before an injury; Massachusetts Pirates’ Alejandro Bennifield contributed to three passing and three rushing touchdowns.
- Special Teams Spark: Arsiah McCorker of Northern Arizona dazzled with two kickoff return touchdowns, including an 108-yard return.
- Comeback Victory: The Massachusetts Pirates overcame an 18-point deficit to win 44-40 against the Green Bay Blizzard, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the IFL.
Opening Weekend Thrillers
The Indoor Football League’s 16th season kicked off with matchups that went down to the final seconds, delivering the excitement fans have come to expect.
Rattlers Strike First
In a dramatic season opener, the Arizona Rattlers visited Prescott Valley, overturning last year’s playoff outcome with a new roster. MVP Dalton Sneed shone brightly with 114 yards and three touchdowns, though an injury sidelined him. Shannon Brooks powered through on the ground, scoring three touchdowns, leading to a Rattlers’ victory over the Northern Arizona Wranglers, 51-40.
Wranglers’ Resilience
Despite a slow start, Northern Arizona’s quarterback duo Joshua Jones and Dillon Sterling-Cole showed promise. The real highlight was Arsiah McCorker, whose exceptional return game kept the Wranglers in contention.
Pirates Plunder Late Win
In a battle of quarterback prowess, the Massachusetts Pirates staged an 18-point comeback against the Green Bay Blizzard. Alejandro Bennifield’s six touchdowns were crucial, while 2023 IFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Jimmie Robinson added significant yardage. This effort culminated in a 44-40 triumph, underscoring the Pirates’ resilience.
Up Next
Week Two expands the action with six games over four days, starting with the Sioux Falls Storm against the Quad City Steamwheelers. Fans won’t miss a play, with live streaming available on YouTube and Caffeine.
Week 2
Upcoming Games Schedule
March 22
- 7:05 p.m. CT Sioux Falls Storm at Quad City Steamwheelers | Vibrant Arena
- 7:30 p.m. CT Tulsa Oilers at Frisco Fighters | Comerica Center
March 23
- 6:05 p.m. CT Iowa Barnstormers at Green Bay Blizzard | Resch Center
- 6:05 p.m. CT Jacksonville Sharks at Massachusetts Pirates | Tsongas Center
- 7:05 p.m. CT San Diego Strike Force at Duke City Gladiators | RR Events Center
March 24
- 5:05 p.m. CT Vegas Knight Hawks at Arizona Rattlers | Desert Diamond Arena
