NFL
By: Brock Vierra
Despite a 22-20 loss on the road to the Arlington Renegades, there’s a lot to look forward to for the Vegas Vipers. A big surprise that the highest-paid player in the league, Vegas’ Brett Hundley didn’t get the start on Sunday did not deter the Vipers from starting the game with an explosive drive. A 74-yard touchdown drive put Vegas in the lead while we saw glimpses of why Sean McVay took a liking to QB Luis Perez. Perez, who seemingly got the start over Hundley due to Hundley’s late signing and arrival to camp came out poised and precise, putting together two first-half scoring drives as Vegas took a 14-3 lead into the locker room
Woodson, the Hall of Fame defensive back had placed a clear label on his defense. Aggressive and opportunistic. A bend but don’t break approach that constantly deflected Bob Stoops’ Renegade attack gave Vipers fans some hope considering the high-scoring offenses Stoops had while he was the HC at Oklahoma. Woodson’s defense had one first-half interception, one turnover on downs, and forced three punts.
However, everything fell apart for the Vipers in the second half. The poised Perez displayed a performance like a man in peril as he threw two pick-sixes that turned the game on its head. Not attempting to add insult to injury but Vipers running back John Lovett fumbled the ball as well. The Vegas offense also had a turnover on downs.
Despite Vegas’ offense gifting the Renegades 12 points, Woodson’s defense stood tall. Even with incredible field position, the Renegades only mustered seven total points of offense in the second half. Six came on two field goals and an extra point successful conversion attempt. Vegas made it interesting late with a touchdown to make the game 22-20 but a failed two-point attempt where Perez was sacked on just a three-man rush and the new “onside kick” rule where a team had to convert a 4th and 15 to maintain possession went array as Geronimo Allison was separated from the football with a crushing hit to give Vegas a loss in its first game ever.
A tough loss for a team that clearly should’ve won is tough but it’s good to know the first-time head coach has his head screwed on correctly. The offense will improve with all signs pointing towards Hundley getting the start in game two. The duel-threat QB will add a new element to the offensive attack that only had 25 total rushing yards. The big names are paying off. Despite the last play, Geronimo Allison had 3 catches for 22 yards. Martavius Bryant got involved early, finishing with 4 catches for 28 yards and Vic Beasley had 1.5 tackles for loss.
LaRon Stokes was a standout for the Vipers’ defense with 3.5 tackles for loss with 1.5 sacks and C.J. Avery’s interception definitely boosted his NFL stock. This defense that had 10 tackles for loss, one interception, and one fumble recovery is exciting. Only time will tell if they’re good or if the Renegades offense is bad but to come out this strong, this early is a credit to Woodson and his defensive staff.
The offensive line needs to get its stuff together quickly and for offensive line coach Bob Wylie, it’s a little troubling to see how quickly Perez got put under pressure as the game went on.
Vegas will host the 1-0 D.C. Defenders this week at its home opener. Woodson will have his first opportunity to get close and personal with the Vegas fans at Cashman Field while he hopes his team can avoid another second-half meltdown. I’m hopeful as D.C did not put in a good offensive performance in week one against Seattle and I expect this Vegas defense to once again be opportunistic. I’m predicting a 27-16 win for the Vipers. Let’s go Vegas!
