Tucson, AZ- The Tucson Sugar Skulls fall to 2-9 all-time versus the Arizona Rattlers in a 38-32 defeat.

Steps Toward Progress
Despite having a 14-day break since their last game, the Sugar Skulls showed promising moments of dominance in front of an audience of 2,604 spectators at Tucson Arena. However, a series of unforced errors caused them to fall short on the scoreboard. With a little more discipline and focus, the Skulls have the potential to become a top-performing team. They can learn from their mistakes and come back stronger in their next game. 

Shaking off the Rust 
Before being sidelined for multiple weeks injuries, Tucson QB Mylik Mitchell was playing like a bonafide superstar. While he remains one of the top signal callers in the IFL, it was clear that sitting out for an extended amount of time took a toll on his play.

Shockingly, he also came down with a case of "Fumblitis" when he fumbled at the goal-line at a critical moment of the game in the third-quarter. Even more so, his accuracy seemed to be a touch off in this in-state showdown. Despite what would be considered as an ordinary outing from Mr. Mitchell, it was the former Kent State and Ferris State standout that still managed to amass 126 total yards of offense and four touchdowns (3 passing, 1 rushing). Expect Mitchell to return to form before next weekend with another full week of practice under his belt. 

Turning Point
With their backs up against the wall late in the fourth quarter, Tucson found themselves on its heels as Arizona threatened to increase their 31-25 lead with under four minutes to go in the fourth quarter. From the Skulls four-yard line, it appeared that Rattlers QB Garrett Kettle connected with receiver Jamal Miles in the flat for the short score. However, Tucson believed that the pass was incomplete and that Miles did not maintain control of the football when he crossed the plane. After further review, officials determined that the play stood as called on the field. 

Shortly after, head coach Billy Back decided to throw the challenge flag yet again to dispute whether or not an Arizona wide receiver was lined up offsides on the scoring play. To Back's dismay, the call was also upheld and Tucson was forced to burn two of their three timeouts due to the unsuccessful challenges. With no way to stop the clock and now trailing by multiple scores, the Skulls eventually ran out of time. 

Positive Takeaways
Although Tucson lost their fourth-straight game, newly signed wideout Brian Smith and defensive back Derrion Rakestraw provided a much-needed spark. On paper, Rakestraw was the Skulls leading tackler with seven total tackles while Smith snagged three receptions for 56 yards on his way to catching a pair of touchdowns through the air. 


Moving Forward 
The Sugar Skulls are back in action next Saturday, May 18th at Home against the Vegas Knight Hawks. Show your support and buy your tickets today. We will see you there.