The Houston Gamblers secured a hard-fought 24-17 victory over the San Antonio Gunslingers in a closely contested game at the Alamodome on August 18, 2023. The Gamblers, now 3-0 on the season, displayed a balanced offensive attack led by quarterback Jim Kelly, who threw for 275 yards and two touchdowns despite two interceptions. Houston’s MVP of the game, wide receiver Ricky Fowler, was instrumental in the win, scoring both through the air and on the ground.
San Antonio, which dropped to 2-1, was no pushover, dominating time of possession with nearly 34 minutes of control. Quarterback Rick Neuheisel kept the Gunslingers in the game with a 230-yard passing performance, including a crucial 39-yard touchdown pass to Michael McDade to tie the game early in the fourth quarter. However, Neuheisel’s three interceptions, particularly one in the red zone, proved costly, stifling the Gunslingers’ efforts to maintain their unbeaten record.
The game was ultimately decided in the final minutes when Kelly connected with Clarence Johnson on a 47-yard touchdown pass, capping an 80-yard drive that put Houston ahead for good. The Gamblers’ defense held strong, forcing San Antonio into a three-and-out on the ensuing drive, sealing the victory. Despite being outgained in total offense, the Gamblers’ efficiency in key moments and their ability to capitalize on San Antonio’s mistakes made the difference in this closely contested matchup.
