The Northern Colorado Nightmare secured first place in the CFL with a decisive 38 to 14 win over the Colorado Springs Flames. For the first time all season, Northern Colorado finally gave up points as Colorado Springs was first to score. It took over six games for the Nightmare to face an opponent that was actually able to score on them.

The Nightmare’s dominating run performances continued as D’Heaven Domena continued his 100 plus yard streak with 116 yards on 13 attempts, Daigen Springer provided useful relief runs, and Juju Banks had several 10 plus yard runs.

The game was competitive as the first quarter ended 7 to 7. In the second quarter, the Nightmare would start to establish their dominance on offense and defense. Shortly after going up 14 to 7 over the Flames, Zach Moser of the Nightmare caused a pivotal turnover early into Colorado Springs’ drive.

The Flames threw a pass out to the right that was caught by the running back, but Zach Moser laid a startling hit into the running backs chest, causing him to fumble the ball and Northern Colorado recovered. One play later Juju Banks threw a 52 yard pass down the far side line to an open Marcell Tyler.

Colorado Springs would put on a respectable drive ending with a 5 yard touchdown pass to an unguarded receiver. Northern Colorado went into halftime with a 20 to 14 lead. This was substantially the closest game the Nightmare had played in nearly a year.

The second half would be a much different story as the Nightmare would go on to score 18 unanswered points in a 38 to 14 win over the 2nd place Colorado Springs Flames.

Domena and Banks continued to show dominant performances and Zach Moser collected an Odell Beckham-like interception to significantly ice any of Colorado Springs momentum. Unfortunately, an excited Moser took his helmet off in excitement for a second time and was disqualified from the game with only a short time left.

Northern Colorado showed offensive dominance, defensive acuity, and a clear talent advantage. While the Nightmare are red hot special teams and penalties leave room for improvement. The lack of a punter showed great concern as the few attempts shown were hazardous. Our favorite kicker and UNC alum Topher Ahrens did have a 50/50 type of night, but the next few weeks will allow for plenty of attempts. Northern Colorado was still able to celebrate a great win and confidently taking over first place in the CFL.