Memphis Tenn. – Memphis (0-2) came out strong to build a 12-0 lead against Arizona, only to be steamed rolled by the Hotshot offense. An offense that put up a total of 384 yards, most which came in the second half, and delivered a 20-18 loss to the Express.
The Hotshots (2-0) scored two touchdowns in the forth to complete their come back. The first from a 45 yard run by Justin Stockton that was set up on the previous play by a deep Wolford pass to Rashad Ross for 34 yards.
Arizona’s go ahead score was set up by a short pass to the outside to Josh Huff that he brought to the Memphis 8 yard line for a 64 yard pickup, the longest of the game. Three plays later Wolford passes for 4 yards over the middle to Tim Cook for the final touchdown of the game.
“ I found out a little bit about my team,” Arizona coach Rick Neuheisel said, ”I kinda suspected we had that kind of grit and resolve and we came roaring back.”
Arizona quarterback John Wolford started off slow but ended up 14 of 22 for 194 yards. Ross being the preferred target, with 4 receptions for 67 yards. Huff was the most productive with 84 receiving yards, coming from only two receptions.
After only rushing for 57 yards in the first half, Arizona finish the day with 209 yards. Cook carried the ball the most with 13 carries for 73 yards.
Jhurell Pressly rushed for 57 yards on 12 carries and Stockton for 54 yard on only 4 carries and 1 touchdown.
Memphis is showing some improvement with quarterback Christian Hackenberg at the helm. After being shut out by the Birmingham Iron in the opening week of Alliance of American Football (AAF) play (in which he completed 10 of 23 for 87 and 1 interception) he has improved in week 2 with 14 completions for 102 yards and no interceptions.
The Express’ defense was able to slow the Hotshot offense for most of the game. Hurrying Wolford consistently, sacking him twice for 19 yards and picking him off twice. They also had 4 tackles for loss and recovered a fumble.
Neuheisel said, “(Memphis) gave us fits with their defense. I’ve coached with Dennis Thurman a long time and he’s very good. He had some tricks up his sleeve and basically stymied us.”
For week 3 Arizona will travel to Salt Lake to face the Stallions and Memphis travels to Orlando against the Apollos.
