The Cactus Cobras came out on top as they defeated the Peoria Panthers 52-8, in a rivalry dating back to the mid-80’s. It took both teams a few possessions to get going, but the Cobras were the first to strike on a 9-yard run up the middle by Jaylon James to go ahead 7-0.

Peoria put together a solid series of drives in their next possession, which featured a 29-yard reception from quarterback Dillon Gragnano who dumped the ball to Ira Rojas. The Panthers were sitting on the Cobras 4-yard line and Rojas found an opening to score the first touchdown for Peoria. On the extra-point attempt, a bad snap resulted in holder Darius Aguirre picking up the ball and making his way into the end zone for the two-point conversion and the 8-7 lead. This lead would be the only lead of the game for Peoria and their final scoring drive.

Cactus quarterback Talal Yousufzai worked up the middle on a QB keeper for a touchdown and the 14-8 lead. Aguirre made a reception at the 45-yard line, but was stripped by Cactus defensive back Josh Kindred as his teammates had him surrounded, but on his feet. Kindred ran the ball back for a Cactus touchdown just as the first half neared completion.

The Cobras came out in the second half and on the second play, James ran 41 yards for another score. Yousufzai score again on this next possession for Cactus and improved their lead 38-8. Cactus added two more scores, by Alex Armbrust and Everett Whipple to earn the victory.

By Jennifer Jimenez