In a thrilling showdown at the Alamodome, the San Antonio Brahmas (3-6) kept their playoff hopes alive with a nail-biting 25-23 win over the Orlando Guardians (1-8). With an official attendance of 13,023, the Brahmas are now eagerly waiting for the outcome of Sunday’s game between the Defenders and Renegades, which could determine their playoff fate.
The game got off to a slow start, with Orlando leading 8-0 in the first quarter. The Brahmas fought back in the second quarter, closing the gap to 14-10 going into halftime. The third quarter saw the Brahmas take a 19-14 lead, and despite a strong push from the Guardians in the fourth quarter, the Brahmas managed to hold on for the victory.
San Antonio’s quarterback, Jack Coan, had an outstanding game, completing 25 of his 31 passes for 302 yards, averaging 9.7 yards per completion, and throwing for one touchdown with no interceptions. On the ground, Jacques Patrick contributed 80 yards and one touchdown on 20 carries.
For the Guardians, Mac Brown completed only one pass for 69 yards, while Quinten Dormady went 9 for 17 with 47 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Deondre Francois added another touchdown on 3 for 5 passing with 20 yards. The Guardians’ rushing attack was led by Devin Darrington, who had 133 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries.
In the receiving department, Nick Holley had a stellar performance for the Brahmas with 105 yards on four receptions. For the Guardians, KD Cannon led the way with 69 yards on one reception, while Ryan Becker and Charleston Rambo each contributed two catches.
San Antonio’s defense played a crucial role in the win, with Drew Beesley recording a 20-yard interception return for a touchdown, while the defense as a whole racked up three sacks and five tackles for loss. On the other hand, Orlando’s defense managed only one sack and four tackles for loss.
In the kicking game, John Parker Romo was perfect for the Brahmas, connecting on both of his field goal attempts, with a long of 38 yards. For the Guardians, Jose Borregales made his lone field goal attempt from 52 yards out.
The Brahmas will now look ahead to the Defenders-Renegades matchup on Sunday, as a win for the Defenders would provide a much-needed boost to their playoff hopes.
XFL Box Score
