ARLINGTON, TEXAS — The Arlington Renegades fell just short in a heart-pounding 25-24 loss to the Michigan Panthers on Saturday at Choctaw Stadium. Despite several lead changes and standout performances, a late touchdown by Michigan sealed the deal.
Arlington’s defense opened strong, forcing two early punts, and the offense put up the game’s first points with a field goal. Michigan answered with a touchdown scramble from Bryce Perkins and a long field goal to lead 9-3. The Renegades closed the gap before halftime, trailing just 9-6.
Momentum shifted in Arlington’s favor in the third quarter. After tying the game at 9-9, a special teams fumble recovery led to another field goal and their first lead. A red-zone stop and a 29-yard TD from Luis Perez to Tyler Vaughns extended the advantage to 18-9.
Michigan struck back quickly, tying the game with a touchdown and a three-point conversion. Arlington responded with another drive, capped by a 10-yard score to Sal Cannella, but missed another two-point try to lead 24-18.
In the final minutes, the Panthers mounted one last push, scoring from the 1-yard line and converting the go-ahead point to take the lead for good.
Notables:
- Tyler Vaughns had a season-high 127 yards and a touchdown.
- Sal Cannella added 92 yards and a score.
- Luis Perez threw for 304 yards and two touchdowns.
- Arlington’s defense now leads the UFL in total sacks with 19.
Next up, Arlington visits the D.C. Defenders on May 18 at 11 a.m. CT on ABC.
