final from houston. pic.twitter.com/GPr2DxoC15

— Orlando Guardians (@XFLGuardians) February 19, 2023

STAND GUARD

In Orlando’s first professional football game since 2019, the Guardians roared to an early lead on the arm of Trinity Christian Academy (Deltona, Florida) product Paxton Lynch. A 3o+ yard strike to receiver Cody Latimer, defying double-coverage for a contested catch in the end zone, would become the first touchdown in franchise history for Orlando. A strong start for Head Coach Terrell Buckley’s squad.

ORLANDO AIR DEFENSE

On defense, the Guardians came ready to play.

First, former Florida Gator Matt Elam came down with the play of the game for Orlando. Coming out of the halftime break, Orlando is only down two scores, 21-6, with ten minutes left. Houston has the ball, and as the quarterback drops back, the Palm Beach Dwyer High School alum baits them into what should of been a momentum-stealing interception in Guardians territory. Orlando would later punt.

Nevertheless, the Guardians’ defense would attempt to provide another spark, by picking off Houston for a second time in the third quarter – this time courtesy of Marcus Murphy Jr., in excellent field position. Orlando would have to punt once again. Missed opportunities would hunt the Guardian all day.

In fact, Orlando’s next scoring possession wouldn’t come until well into the fourth quarter. Guardian quarterback Quinten Dormady would enter the game, and toss a beautiful 51 yard pass to speedy receiver Andrew Jamiel for Orlando’s longest touchdown. It would also be the Guardians’ last score of the evening.

During this week’s media availability, Coach Buckley spoke to his desire to see all quarterbacks compete in live action. In fact, Buckley declined to name a starter before kickoff, opting to allow every man on the roster the opportunity to prepare for their first game. When asked about his mindset in preparation for this game:

“We can finally see where we are.”

While both Paxton Lynch, and Quinten Dormady ended the day with impressive scoring drives, missed opportunities and forced errors denied fan an opportunity to judge the true talent level of either. No sign yet of local product Deondre Francois, who was inactive for the season opener.

AROUND THE LEAGUE

In the other featured game of opening week, the Guardian’s division rival Arlington Renegades are first place after an impressive, come-from-behind victory over Las Vegas.

NEXT: Orlando Guardians return home on Sunday, Feb. 26, to face the San Antonio Brahmas in Camping World.