Glendale, AZ - The Arizona Rattlers turned up the heat at the Desert Diamond Arena, holding off the Bay Area Panthers in a high-energy shootout to claim a 53-48 victory. With the win, the Rattlers improve to 5-1 on the season and remain a force to be reckoned with in the IFL. 

First Quarter Momentum

Running back Shannon Brooks wasted no time putting points on the board. On Arizona's first possession, Brooks capped off the drive with a touchdown run from inside the 10-yard line. Minutes later, he charged into the end zone again to give the Rattlers a 14-7 lead. Brooks finished the game with 14 carries for 58 yards and three touchdowns.

Saturday night marked the debut of two new Rattlers: Wide receivers Jordin Parker and Brian Smith, who both made themselves known immediately. Parker emerged as a versatile weapon, catching five passes for 44 yards, including a game-shifting 33-yard touchdown in the third quarter. He also fielded multiple kick returns, helping to set up favorable field positions all evening. Brian Smith joined the action in the second quarter with a smooth 11-yard reception that helped convert a critical first down and sustain momentum during a key offensive drive.

The Dual Role Hero

Known for his lockdown defense, Ethan Casselberry stepped up as an emergency kicker and didn't miss a beat. He went 5-for-6 on extra points and also added a two-point conversion on a run early in the first half. On the defensive, Casselberry made the play of the night when he picked off Bay Area quarterback Josh Jones in the second quarter . He finished the night the six total tackles and one interception, proving once again that he's a game changer wherever he stands. 

Quarterback Dalton Sneed delivered one of his best performances of the season, completing 17 of 28 passes for 185 yards and five touchdowns. Sneed rushed seven times for 31 yards and two touchdowns. Trey Dixon added three catches for 61 yards and a third-quarter score, while Ron Brown Jr. and Jordin Parker each added touchdowns of their own.

What's Next: 

The Arizona Rattlers return home next weekend, May 17th, for a matchup against the Vegas Nigh Hawks. Grab your tickets today!