PHOENIX, Ariz — The perennial powerhouse Arizona Rattlers proved to be much tougher competition than either San Diego or Bismarck.
After two wins to start the season, the Indoor Football League expansion Tucson Sugar Skulls fell to the Rattlers, 63-28 at Talking Stick Arena.
The Sugar Skulls got on the scoreboard first, thanks to Mike Jones touchdown run. But, Tucson struggled on special teams. The Sugar Skulls had a field goal blocked for a Rattlers touchdown, and there was another fumble on a kickoff return.
"We got a couple of turnovers in special teams," said Rattlers coach Kevin Guy. "We got stronger as the game went on."
Jabre Lolley had three total touchdowns for the Rattlers, who improve to 3-0 on the season.
The game was the first of four meetings between the teams this year. The Sugar Skulls now have a bye week, and will host San Diego on March 31st.
"The good thing for Tucson is that they know where they're at," added Guy. "They'll get better. That's a great coaching staff that did some stuff in the beginning that we weren't ready for."
