Football Recap: Yuma Keeps Holyoke's Under Pressure

Yuma was the 28-22 winner over Holyoke when they last played one another back in October of 2024, but their luck changed this time around. The Outlaws took a 32-21 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Dragons on Friday.

When it comes to explaining why Yuma lost, don't look at Iann Duran. Despite the final result, he rushed for 143 yards and a pair of scores while picking up 7.9 yards per carry, and also threw for 109 yards on 12 of 20 attempts. Duran showed off some serious burst, turning on the afterburners on one carry for 51 yards.

Even if they lost, Yuma's defensive line still kept up the pressure with four sacks. That dominant display was truly a team effort as four different players picked up one apiece.

Elbin Padilla had an outrageously good game for Holyoke as he picked up 171 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Padilla is becoming a predictor of the Dragons' success: when he posts at least two receiving touchdowns the team is 2-1 (and 1-3 when he doesn't). Holyoke also got help from Dathyn Dirks, who showed off his sure hands for 91 receiving yards.

Yuma has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four matchups. That's put a noticeable dent in their 4-3 record this season. As for Holyoke, their victory was their first in the league, bumping their league record up to 1-2 and their overall record up to 3-4.

We've got plenty of inter-league action coming up soon. Yuma will square off against rival Wray at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Meanwhile, Holyoke is set to face off against their familiar foe Wiggins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday.