The Orlando Renegades extended their winning streak to three games with a commanding 42-3 road victory against the Washington Federals on Sunday at Audi Field. Orlando improved to 3-0 overall and 1-0 in the division while coach Rueben Mahaffey's squad dominated from start to finish.
Washington struck first with a 26-yard field goal by Marcos Hilliard at 8:57 of the first quarter to take a 3-0 lead. The Renegades responded in the second quarter with a touchdown pass from quarterback John Rice to tight end Joshua Towe, who finished with 59 receiving yards and a rushing touchdown. The successful extra point by Gregg Zavala gave Orlando a 7-3 lead.
Shortly after, running back Bill Minks, who amassed 122 rushing yards and two receiving touchdowns, scored on a five-yard run to extend the lead to 14-3. Zavala's extra point was good. The Renegades' offense kept rolling, and a 27-yard field goal by Zavala before halftime pushed the lead to 17-3.
Orlando's running game was dominant, with Minks contributing heavily and George Porter adding 91 rushing yards and a receiving touchdown. On a critical drive in the third quarter, Minks ran 19 yards for a touchdown, further increasing the lead to 24-3 after another Zavala extra point.
The Renegades controlled possession effectively and capitalized on mistakes by the Federals. Washington quarterback Joseph Johnson threw five interceptions and managed only 134 passing yards while being sacked five times. Meanwhile, Orlando's defense, led by outside linebacker Adam Levy’s forced fumble, limited the Federals to just 19 rushing yards.
Despite the Federals’ efforts, including four sacks by defensive end David Jernigan, the offense was unable to produce beyond Hilliard’s lone field goal early in the game. Washington remained winless at 0-3 and at the bottom of their division, struggling to convert third downs and unable to reach the red zone.
The Renegades’ disciplined play minimized penalties despite recording six infractions for 55 yards. Special teams also contributed, with punter Jerome Ramirez frequently pinning the Federals deep in their own territory.
With this decisive victory, the Renegades are positioned strongly at the top of the division standings. Coach Rueben Mahaffey’s team showcased balanced offensive production and solid defensive execution to maintain their undefeated record heading into Week 4.
Renegades Cruise to 42-3 Victory Over Federals to Remain Undefeated
Daniel Rogers
· Orlando Lakes Ledger
· 9/17/2023