In a nail-biting conclusion to the 2024 season, the Arlington Renegades (3-7) secured a narrow 32-31 victory over the D.C. Defenders (4-6) at Audi Field on Sunday afternoon. Both teams put forth a valiant effort, but it was Arlington's offensive prowess and clutch performance in the final moments that sealed the win.
Quarterback Luis Perez led the Renegades with a standout performance, completing 23 of 37 passes (62%) for 215 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Perez's connection with wide receiver Tyler Vaughns proved pivotal. In the second quarter, Perez delivered a five-yard touchdown pass to Vaughns, bringing the score to 15-14 in favor of D.C. just before halftime.
The fourth quarter saw more heroics from Perez, who threw a 34-yard touchdown pass to Vaughns, giving Arlington a 25-21 lead with 14:20 remaining. Perez then found Deontay Burnett for a seven-yard touchdown, securing a 32-31 lead with only 2:28 left on the clock.
Arlington's ground game was anchored by running back De’Veon Smith, who rushed for 94 yards on 20 carries and added three catches for 17 yards. Devin Darrington contributed with eight carries for 26 yards. Tight end Sal Cannella led the receiving corps with seven catches for 52 yards, while Vaughns made five catches for 84 yards and two touchdowns.
Kicker Jonathan Garibay was reliable, converting three field goals with a longest of 40 yards. The Renegades' defense stepped up with 52 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, four pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
The D.C. Defenders, despite their offensive efforts, fell just short. Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu completed 18 of 34 passes (53%) for 218 yards and two touchdowns. Ta’amu connected with Vyncint Smith for a 43-yard touchdown in the second quarter, extending their lead to 15-6. In the fourth quarter, Ta’amu threw a 40-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Smith, putting D.C. ahead 29-25.
Running back Cam’Ron Harris led the Defenders' rushing attack with 31 yards on seven carries, including a one-yard touchdown in the third quarter. The team's rushers totaled 38 yards on 12 carries. Wide receiver Ty Scott made five catches for 35 yards, while Chris Rowland contributed significantly on special teams, returning eight kickoffs for 274 yards and a touchdown.
Kicker Matthew McCrane nailed a 44-yard field goal, and the D.C. defense recorded 64 tackles, three tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven pass breakups, and a safety.
