Box Score Glendale, AZ – In a nail-biting back-and-forth playoff showdown that came down to the final second, the Arizona Rattlers were edged out 49-48 by the San Diego Strike Force at the Desert Diamond Arena, ending the season in dramatic fashion.

Defense Starts The Party

The Rattlers kicked things off with fire as Kevin Simes Jr. recovered a fumble in San Diego's end zone to put Arizona on the board first. It was a tone-setter for what would become a rollercoaster of a night.

Sneed in Control

Quarterback Dalton-Sneed led a confident first-half charge, finding both Ron Brown Jr. and Shannon Brooks for multiple power plays and touchdowns. The backfield rotation kept the Strike Force's defense guessing, helping Arizona keep pace in a tight, back-and-forth half that ended 21-21.

A Wild Finish in the Desert

Down by six with under three minutes in the game, the Rattlers pulled off a perfectly executed onside kick and charged down the field. Isaiah Huston capped off the drive with what looked like the game-winning touchdown. With just 41 seconds left on the clock, Arizona reclaimed the lead and the momentum.

Unfortunately for the Rattlers, San Diego answered with a last-gasp drive of their own. With just one second remaining, the Strike Force found the endzone and nailed the extra point, sealing a one-point win and punching their ticket to the next round.

End of a Gritty Season

While the season ends sooner than hoped, the Rattlers left it all on the field. Playing with heart, hustle, and toughness until the final whistle. With a strong core and passionate fanbase, Arizona won't be down for long.

The Rattlers will be back.