Special to Jacksonville SportsDay
The Jacksonville Sharks opened their season with a 47-24 win against the NAZ Wranglers at Findlay Toyota Center on Saturday night. With the victory, the Sharks start the 2026 IFL season with a 1-0 record. The Wranglers fall to 0-2 after a loss to both the Sharks and the San Diego Strike Force.
In a game that featured strong offensive output and opportunistic defense, the Sharks built a comfortable lead early and never looked back. Jacksonville controlled the tempo the whole night, outgaining the Wranglers 202-155 in total offense while forcing two interceptions and limiting NAZ to nine first downs. The Sharks’ balanced attack and stout defensive effort proved too much for the home team in the Wranglers’ second game of the new season.
Jacksonville jumped out to a 10-9 advantage after the first quarter and extended the margin with a big second quarter that pushed the lead to 31-16 by halftime. A third-quarter field goal made it a three-score game, and although the Wranglers added a safety and late points, the Sharks responded with additional scoring in the fourth to seal the win.
Statistical leaders
QB James Cahoon: The Sharks’ signal-caller had an impressive debut, completing 11 of 21 passes for 175 yards and 3 touchdowns with just 1 interception.
WR Marquel Wade: Led the receiving corps with 3 catches for 54 yards and a touchdown, including a long of 25 yards.
WR Redd Douglas: Added 3 receptions for 45 yards and a score.
RB Jimmie Robinson Jr.: Found the end zone three times on the ground while also chipping in as a receiver (2 catches, 29 yards). He handled kickoff return duties as well.
NAZ Notes: Quarterback Ramone Atkins completed 13 of 26 passes for 107 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Running back Nolan Susel led the ground game with 9 carries for 31 yards and two touchdowns, while defensive back Dywan Griffin recorded a team-high 4 solo tackles and returned an interception for 4 yards.
