Gladiators end the season on a high note

During their final game of the year, the Duke City Gladiators put on a show in front of their home crowd — and ended the Northern Arizona Wrangler’s playoff chances — with a 69-48 win.

The Wranglers needed a win, and for the San Diego Strike Force to lose, for them to qualify for the IFL playoffs. The Strike Force ended up losing to the Bay Area Panthers, but the Wranglers failed to leave the Rio Rancho Events Center with a win.

After a week to forget, Gladiator kicker Ernesto Lacayo had a brilliant season finale, knocking down a couple of field goals, going 7-for-7 in PATs, and kicked six deuces. Lacayo accounted for 25 of the 69 Gladiators' points.

Also having a great night was quarterback Javin Kilgo, who threw for four touchdowns. Three of those touchdowns went to X-factor receiver Tamorrion Terry, who also 80 yards on five catches.

The Gladiators also owned the ground game, running for 109 yards and three touchdowns.

On the defensive side, the Gladiators limited the Wranglers for 41 rushing yards, were able to pressure the quarterback and forced a couple turnovers.

Gladiator defensive back Gregory Dent Jr. played on an island and finished the night with three pass breakups an interception.

Another difference maker for the Gladiators was edge rusher Jamel Williams, who only recorded half a sack but was responsible for 1.5 tackles for loss and three quarterback hurries.

The Gladiators finish the season with a 3-13 record. However, they looked much better down the stretch. After starting the year 0-8, they went 3-5 in their final eight games.