PHOENIX - The Arizona Rattlers lost their first game of the season on Saturday night in Tucson by a score of 74-to-63.

It was a shootout at the Tucson Convention Center, as the Sugar Skulls offense struck early and often. They opened the first-half with a 42-point outburst, which was the most the Rattlers had given up in a single game at that point. 

1st Half

Arizona and Tucson each scored on their first two opening drives, making the score 14-14 with 5:04 remaining in the first quarter.

The Rattlers scored on three straight drives to open the game. On their third drive, the extra point attempt was blocked by Tucson. Arizona's defense never truly found a rhythm, and Tucson capitalized on the mistakes the Rattlers made. 

At the half, Tucson led it 42-32. Entering this game, the Rattlers had not allowed more than 35 points total in an entire game.

QB Battle 

The highly anticipated matchup between Drew Powell and Daquan Neal lived up to the hype. The two IFL MVP award winners traded punches all night, but ultimately Neal got the better of the two, as the Sugar Skulls were able to put the finishing touches on the Rattlers in the 4th quarter and pull ahead for good.

Powell: 16/28, 208 passing yards, 3 passing TD, 81 rushing yards, 4 rushing TD. 

Neal: 12/15, 152 passing yards, 5 passing TD, 25 rushing yards, 2 rushing TD.

As you can see, they each stuffed the stat sheet and tallied 7 total touchdowns overall. Powell had over 280 total yards to go with his seven touchdowns, but it was not enough as the Sugar Skulls were able to convert on more drives and take advantage of favorable field position time and time again.

Top Performers

WR Braxton Haley had a standout performance with 5 receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns on the evening, continuing his productive season.

LB Saleem Brightwell led the Arizona Rattlers in tackles with 7, displaying his activity and ability to cover ground. 

Officially a Rivalry?

Now that Tucson won their first ever game against the Rattlers in 8 attempts, the "I-10 Battle" is now officially underway. The Sugar Skulls and the Rattlers will meet again on June 25th in Downtown Phoenix at the Footprint Center.

Up next? Arizona hosts the Massachusetts Pirates in the rematch of the heated 2021 IFL United Bowl.