The 2023 Round One Playoff game rematch between the Arizona Rattlers and the Northern Arizona Wranglers kicked off the 2024 Indoor Football League season on March 16.
The Rattlers, who were upset by the Wranglers in the first round of the playoffs last season got their revenge on their Northern rivals by defeating the Wranglers 51-40.
The Rattlers’ victory can be partially attributed to Quarterback Dalton Sneed, who was the team’s blockbuster signing last free agency after deciding to trade former three-time league MVP Drew Powell to the Tucson Sugar Skulls.
Sneed, the quarterback of the 2023 IFL champion Bay Area Panthers is looking to continue his already impressive IFL career as he heads into his third season. Sneed had 2,763 all-purpose yards and 66 touchdowns in his championship leading season.
Dalton Sneed had a three touchdown performance against the Wranglers, as he led the former 2023 league's best offense to their first win of the season. Shannon Brooks also picked up three touchdowns on a net 74 yard yard day.
The Wranglers struggled to get anything going through the air. As both Cole Sterling and Joshua Jones combined for only 90 yards and a touchdown. The highlight of the Wranglers’ day was a Arsiah McCorker 55 yard kick return touchdown to conclude the first quarter.
The Rattlers will look to continue their hot season in week three as they play the defending United Bowl Champion away from home in San Jose on March 31.
The Wranglers will look to get things on track in week three when they host the Tucson Sugar Skulls on March 30.