Denver Gold Stifle Late LA Rally to Secure 38-21 Victory

In a high-stakes matchup at a frigid Mile High Stadium, the Denver Gold capitalized on a dominating ground game and timely defensive plays to defeat the Los Angeles Express 38-21. Denver struck early and decisively, opening with a marathon 17-play, 77-yard drive capped by Bob Gagliano’s 3-yard touchdown scramble. Moments later, Nate Miller’s 35-yard interception return extended the lead to 14-0. Despite the cold and a resilient LA defense, Denver maintained their offensive rhythm, with Bill Johnson pounding his way to two rushing touchdowns and a game-high 158 yards on 27 carries.

Los Angeles mounted a valiant comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, led by quarterback Frank Seurer. Trailing 24-7, Seurer connected with Kris Haines and JoJo Townsell for touchdowns to narrow the gap to 24-21. The Express showed flashes of brilliance in the air, as Seurer finished with 247 yards and three touchdowns, but Denver’s relentless pressure and physicality proved too much. A 90-yard drive orchestrated by Gagliano and capped by a 15-yard touchdown pass to Leonard Harris sealed the game. Johnson’s second touchdown on a 20-yard burst shortly after punctuated Denver’s statement win.

Defensively, the Gold showcased their tenacity, led by Nate Miller’s game-changing pick-six and strong performances from Bob Gunderman and John Nevens. Denver limited LA to just 27 rushing yards and forced three turnovers, while their offense controlled the clock with over 39 minutes of possession. With the victory, Denver improved to 6-8-1, keeping their playoff hopes alive, while LA fell to 4-10-1 in a tough season of missed opportunities.