The win improved Tucson to 5-4 on the season, good for third in the western conference. They now hold a one-game lead over Duke City (4th) and a 1.5 game lead over the Vegas Knight Hawks (5th) out west.
The Return
The return of Daquan Neal did not disappoint, as the Sugar Skulls offense exploded yet again for 69 points this time. Neal was sensational, tossing five touchdowns and running for two, totaling seven touchdowns on the evening.
He completed 12-of-19 passes for 156 yards including a game-long 30-yard connection to Carrington Thompson. On the ground attack, Daquan made the most of his eight rush attempts, compiling 68 yards (8.5 yards per carry) and two scores.
The Skulls’ run game was a two-man show, with running back Mike Jones doing damage per usual. The veteran back bullied his way into the endzone for three rushing touchdowns and had 58 total yards on the round on 13 attempts. He also had one reception for seven yards.
WR Attack
Carrington Thompson had himself a game, connecting with Neal early and often. Thompson led the team in receptions (5), receiving yards (83) and receiving touchdowns (3) in a big night.
Quinton Pedroza also chipped in four receptions for 48 yards and 1 touchdown reception to continue his productive 2022 campaign. Arthur Jackson also chipped in with two receptions for 18 yards and a touchdown as well.
Battling Back
The Sugar Skulls were scored on first and trailed both after the first quarter and at half time in this one. They trailed by 10 at one point with the score 31-21 with seconds remaining in the first half. A quick strike from Neal to Thompson cut the lead down to three before the final seconds of the first half.
Defensive Standouts
The defense had some issues at times in containing the Strike Force, but there were key performances across the board. Bikembe Kearney totaled 10 tackles including 0.5 for loss, and newcomer and former Skull Cam Gaddis had six tackles.
Rayshad Jackson and Maurice Jackson each had two sacks a piece, putting much-needed pressure on the Strike Force front line.
Up next? The Sugar Skulls will host the Northern Arizona Wranglers in a pivotal battle between the #2 and #3 seeds in the Western Conference. The game will take place at the Boneyard on Saturday at 6:05 pm.
Press Release courtesy of the Tucson Sugar Skulls – Brandon Dueñas
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