Howie is editor & publisher of 50-Yard Football
Week 3 of the Indoor Football League season features four games across two days, with a mix of season debuts and teams seeking early traction. Saturday’s schedule opens with San Diego at Arizona.
San Diego (1-0) is coming off a 42-40 win over Northern Arizona. Quarterback Nate Davis completed 18 of 25 passes for 176 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Levi Sample had 10 catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns, and running back Edward Vander rushed for 63 yards and four scores.
Defensively, Elijah Reed leads the secondary after recording two interceptions in the opener. Herman Smith also added an interception.
Arizona makes its season debut behind quarterback Max Meylor, the league’s reigning MVP. The offense includes receivers Arland Bruce, Isaiah Huston and Corey Reed Jr., with Ron Brown Jr. at running back. Defensively, the Rattlers feature lineman Jaylon Bass and defensive backs Jordan Anderson and Devin Hafford.
Later Saturday, Jacksonville opens its season at Northern Arizona.
Northern Arizona (0-1) lost 42-40 to San Diego despite six total touchdowns from quarterback Ramon Atkins-Frazier, who accounted for 174 passing yards and three interceptions. Marlon Cook Jr. had six receptions for 60 yards and two touchdowns.
Jacksonville debuts with quarterback James Cahoon leading an offense that includes Jaedon Stoshak, Marcus Rogers, Billy Bowens and Lowell Patron. Running back Jimmie Robinson provides additional versatility. The defense is anchored by lineman Devonta Davis and a secondary that includes John Huggins and Robert Jones III.
Sunday begins with Tulsa at San Antonio, with both teams making their first appearances.
Tulsa features quarterbacks TJ Edwards and Clifton McDowell. The offense includes Jamaal Bell, Larry Harrington, Brandon Mackey and Darius Hale. Defensively, the Oilers rely on Tariq Bracy and Cedarius Doss in the secondary, with Kurott Garland and Jalen Joyner up front.
San Antonio enters with quarterbacks Fred Payton and Joaquin Collazo competing for the starting role. Derrick Rose and Deion McShane lead the receiving group, and Shen Butler-Lawson anchors the run game. Defensively, Matt Elam and Terry Beckner Jr. form the core.
The weekend concludes with Vegas at Tucson.
Vegas has already played once this season, with quarterback Jayden De Laura throwing for 158 yards and two touchdowns. Phoenix Sproles led receivers with 60 yards. Defensively, James Ceasar and Trevon Jones combined for 11 tackles.
Tucson makes its debut with quarterbacks Draylen Ellis and Kacey Otto available. The offense includes receivers Gourney Sloan and Damecio Ewing, along with running back Tyler King. Defensively, Ahmad Lyons and Kendricks Gladney lead the secondary, with D’jimon Brooks on the line.