Arlington Renegades shutout in 2nd half losing to Roughnecks 23-14

If you believe in omens or a play that can summarize an entire game, then you will want to highlight the very first play from scrimmage that the Arlington Renegades had on Sunday evening. On the very first play of the game, Renegades quarterback, Drew Plitt, dropped back in the pocket and threw and interception to Roughneck’s defensive back Ajene Harris. The energy in the stadium erupted as the fan base in Houston was just getting to their seats when momentum swung on the first play from scrimmage. The interception led to a 42-yard field goal Roughnecks kicker, Hunter Duplessis. Roughnecks’ special teams and defense were ready for the challenge early in the game, forcing Arlington to punt after a 6-play drive with 7:57 in the first quarter. Houston took advantage of great field position when quarterback, Brandon Silvers connected on a 5-yard touchdown to running back Nick Holley. Roughnecks added a successful 2-point conversion with a pass caught by wide receiver, Jontre Kirklin to take an 11-0 lead with 7:40 left in first quarter.

The second quarter was all about Renegades converting on opportunities. It started with recovering a fumble that was forced by LuJuan Willingham at the Houston 23 yard line. Arlington scored a 4-yard touchdown when LuJuan Willingham caught a pass from Drew Plitt. The 2-point attempt was unsuccessful, but the Roughnecks were shocked at the score 11-6. Renegades eventually got the ball back and punted to Houston only to force another punt return fumble caused by LuJuan Willingham again recovered by long snapper Anthony Ortiz which led to a 13-yard touchdown by Nate Becker in addition to a successful 2-pt conversion on a pass caught by Tyler Vaughns to now hold a 14 to 11 point lead at halftime.

Houston Roughnecks completely shut down the Arlington Renegades in the 2nd half of Sunday’s game. Not only did the defense not allow a score, they offense scored a touchdown with a 15-yard pass caught by Cedric Byrd; with an unsuccessful conversion to take a 17-14 lead. In the third quarter, the Renegades fumbled and eventually punted in the last possession of the 3rd quarter. The Roughnecks secured the victory with a touchdown late in the 4th quarter to secure a 23 to 14 victory.

Arlington Renegades drop to 1-1 and will host the Orlando Guardians in Choctaw Stadium on Sunday, March 5th while the Houston Roughnecks take first place and will host the 1-1 San Antonio Brahmas in Week 3.