PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ – The six-time world champion Arizona Rattlers opened their season in a dominant fashion, cruising to victory over the Northern Arizona Wranglers in their first game in franchise history by a score of 51-20. 

Rushing Rattlers

The Rattlers' ground game came up big on opening day. Running back Nick LaSane showed no mercy in his IFL debut, running for three touchdowns on the day. LaSane led an onslaught of offense with 44 points in the first half.

Quarterback Drew Powell added to the ground attack with two rushing touchdowns, as well as one through the air, to receiver Jamal Miles. Miles rounded out the day with both a rushing and receiving touchdown. Ben Holmes replaced Powell at quarterback in the second half of the game.

Stifling Defense

The Wranglers had no answer for the defense of the Rattlers, who forced three turnovers and kept the Wranglers from getting any traction throughout the game. Chris McAllister wrecked the game from the trenches, earning an interception and a safety in the first half alone. McAllister gave the Wranglers offense all it could handle. 

Dillion Winfrey added to the turnover count with an interception in the fourth quarter. Nik D'Avanzo also picked up where he left off last season, tallying a sack and blocked PAT, which came on the Wranglers' final touchdown of the game.

Setting up for Sioux Falls

The Rattlers turn their attention to the rematch of the 2019 United Bowl Championship against the Sioux Falls Storm. Arizona looks to avenge its last matchup where they went toe-to-toe with the reigning IFL Champions in a 56-53 loss. The Storm are still looking for their first win of the season after a 56-36 loss to the Iowa Barnstormers in their opening game of the season.