I might sound like a broken record at this point, but the Panthers played a much closer game last Saturday night than the scoreboard might indicate. Despite the 25 point scoring margin, Tucson outgained Bay Area by a mere one yard per play (7.1 to 6.1). You would then assume that the scoring difference could be explained by turnover margin. However, neither team had any turnovers in the outing. The difference came in a 3 drive stretch in the 2nd quarter when the Sugar Skulls were able to prevent a 4th down conversion, block a field goal, and recover an onside kick.  


Key Plays


As mentioned in the prior section, three key plays in the first part of the 2nd quarter made all of the difference in this matchup.  

The Panthers failed to convert this 4th and 2 after the Espinoza overthrow down the field. 



Later in the quarter Tucson blocked an Artigue kick to set up the easy touchdown. 


On the ensuing kickoff after the touchdown, the Sugar Skulls managed to recover a surprise onside kick that eventually led to another touchdown. 


Espinoza remained the bright spot for Bay Area in not only an unlucky second quarter but the entire game. He connected with Crowell on this 14 yard back shoulder strike to put some points on the board before halftime. 




Number of the Game

7

Vincent Espinosa stepped in with a masterful performance in relief of the injured Joe Newman. Over the course of the game he averaged 7 yards per pass attempt as well as a 3:0 touchdown to interception ratio. His ground game was not too shabby either, tacking on 8 rushing attempts for 50 yards (6.3 YPC) and 2 touchdowns. 

Swing back by next week after I recap the Panthers' Saturday, June 18th matchup on the road against the San Diego Force. Take care.