Indy Animals Stage Dramatic Comeback for Victory Over Philadelphia Dark Side
Indianapolis, IN – The Indy Animals pulled off a thrilling comeback victory in Week 1, overcoming the Philadelphia Dark Side with a final score of 44-40. The win pushes the Animals to 1-0, while the Dark Side starts the season at 0-1.
Jalen Hurts led the Dark Side with a strong performance, throwing for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his efforts, Philadelphia was unable to maintain their early lead, with a key turning point coming in the 3rd quarter. Hurts, known for his leadership and patience, emphasized the importance of staying calm and collected. “Patience is key in this game,” Hurts remarked after the match. “We need to stay focused and trust the process. We'll use this as a learning experience and come back stronger.”
The game was defined by a stunning second-half performance from the Indy Animals. Starting the third quarter trailing, Indy mounted a comeback led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, who threw for 272 yards and two touchdowns. Daniels’ connection with Cooper Kupp, who had 120 yards and a touchdown, was crucial in turning the game around.
The Animals’ defense also made a significant impact, recording six sacks and forcing two turnovers. Indy was particularly effective, applying pressure and creating opportunities for the offense. This defensive effort was pivotal in their ability to close the gap and eventually take the lead.
The Dark Side saw notable performances from Alvin Kamara and A.J. Brown. Kamara rushed for 110 yards and a touchdown, while Brown added 119 receiving yards and a touchdown. However, these contributions were not enough to secure the win as the Animals’ defense tightened in the latter part of the game.
The clash was a testament to the unpredictable and exciting nature of the IFFL, setting the stage for a thrilling year of football.