Incarnate Word dominates Northern Arizona with 38-14 victory

On Saturday night, Incarnate Word faced Northern Arizona in a decisive football match, showcasing a strong performance. Zach Calzada led the Cardinals with two touchdown passes, while Dekalon Taylor made a significant impact on the ground, rushing for 184 yards and scoring twice. The Cardinals capitalized on Northern Arizona's fourth-down failures, stopping them five times throughout the game, which proved crucial in their victory. The game began with a back-and-forth dynamic, as Northern Arizona initially took the lead with a touchdown pass from Ty Pennington to Tay Lanier. However, Incarnate Word quickly responded, tying the game after a successful fourth-down stop. The Cardinals continued to build momentum, scoring after another defensive stand, which highlighted their ability to convert defensive success into offensive points. As the game progressed, Incarnate Word's defense remained relentless, forcing Northern Arizona into unsuccessful fourth-down attempts. This allowed the Cardinals to extend their lead significantly, with Taylor's impressive 97-yard run contributing to the score. The Cardinals' ability to capitalize on turnovers and defensive stops was a key factor in their commanding performance. Ultimately, the victory improved Incarnate Word's record to 2-2, while Northern Arizona also fell to 2-2. The game demonstrated the Cardinals' resilience and strategic execution, particularly in critical moments, setting a positive tone for the remainder of their season.