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The Northern Arizona Lumberjacks put on a show with 431 yards of total offense, outgaining Incarnate Word by 19 yards. However, their inability to convert on fourth down proved costly as Incarnate Word capitalized on their chances to secure a 38-14 victory.
Zach Calzada led the charge for Incarnate Word with two touchdown passes, while Dekalon Taylor had an outstanding performance with 184 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Cardinals’ defense stood tall, stopping Northern Arizona on downs five times throughout the game.
Despite Northern Arizona’s offensive efforts, the Cardinals managed to turn four of the five fourth-down stops into crucial touchdowns, propelling them to a comfortable lead.
The game saw back-and-forth action with both teams taking risks on fourth down. NAU’s gamble near midfield resulted in a game-tying touchdown pass from Calzada to Mason Pierce. However, Incarnate Word seized the momentum by converting their opportunities into points.
Incarnate Word’s defense made crucial stops, including a strip-sack by Declan Williams late in the first half, leading to a field goal before halftime. The Cardinals continued their momentum in the second half, capitalizing on turnovers and converting them into scores.
Despite the Lumberjacks’ offensive production, Incarnate Word’s defense proved to be the difference-maker in the game. The Cardinals’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and fourth-down stops ultimately sealed the victory for them.
Discover Phoenix’s Vibrant Sports Scene
Phoenix is a sports enthusiast’s dream with a thriving professional sports scene. The city is home to major teams like the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, NBA’s Phoenix Suns, WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, and MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks.
State Farm Stadium in Glendale hosts the Arizona Cardinals, while the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix is the home of the Suns and the Mercury. Additionally, the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League play at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale.
Phoenix also boasts a vibrant soccer scene with the USL’s Phoenix Rising FC playing their home games at Phoenix Rising FC Stadium.
Aside from major league teams, Phoenix hosts a variety of sporting events throughout the year, including the Fiesta Bowl and Guaranteed Rate Bowl for college football fans, the WM Phoenix Open for golf enthusiasts, and NASCAR events, including Championship Weekend in November.
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