The Tucson Sugar Skulls' comeback against the San Diego Strike Force came up short Saturday night at Tucson Arena.
Despite rallying from a 20-point deficit, Tucson fell to San Diego, 48-42, and dropped its second straight home game.
The Sugar Skulls trailed 34-14 early following four passing touchdowns San Diego quarterback and IFL veteran Nate Davis, who completed 18 of 34 passes for 176 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions.
Two of San Diego's first-half touchdowns were on fourth down. The Strike Force were a combined 9 for 12 on third- and fourth-down conversions, while the Sugar Skulls were 1 for 7.
Davis' two interceptions to Sugar Skulls defensive backs Bri'On Murray and Aaron Jackson, coupled with three straight touchdowns, allowed the Sugar Skulls to take a 35-34 lead entering the fourth quarter.
Tucson running backs Brandon Mackey, who had a 29-yard touchdown after shrugging off three defenders, and Tavion Thomas combined for four rushing touchdowns on Saturday.
After the Sugar Skulls and Strike Force exchanged passing touchdowns in the fourth quarter, San Diego running back Edward Vander scored a 12-yard touchdown, but the Sugar Skulls blocked the PAT.
With a chance to win the game, the Sugar Skulls were stopped on fourth down at the 20-yard line. Sugar Skulls quarterback Draylen Ellis was for 5 for 21 passing for 66 yards, a touchdown and an interception; he also had a fumble in the first half.
Up next: Tucson (1-2) hosts the New Mexico Chupacabras (1-2) at Tucson Arena Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m. The Sugar Skulls are looking to win their first home game since June 21, 2025, when they beat the Northern Arizona Wranglers.
