Arizona Christian University

Glendale, Ariz.- The 2026 season opener and first game under Head Coach Drew Maddox saw the Firestorm leading until late in the third quarter.  But the Fort Lewis Skyhawks scored the game's last 24 points to close out the win.

ACU netted 208 yards with their ground attack.  Ty Cole led the way with 91 yards.  Tyler Johnson added 51 yards.

On the defensive front, the Firestorm held the Skyhawks to 51 yards rushing.  Jax James secured the first interception of the season.  Cooper Craig dialed in sack number one of 2026.

Game Info

• Game score: Fort Lewis- 27, Arizona Christian - 9
• Records: Arizona Christian- 0-1 Frontier,Fort Lewis - 1-0
• Location:  Ray Dennison Memorial Field, Fort Lewis College, Durango, CA

Inside The Numbers

• The first 43 minutes of the game was all about field goals as Lukas Hall made his first three collegiate attempts (40, 42, 35) and FLC made two
• Following an ACU three and out late in third, the Skyhawks scored the first TD just one play after the punt
• After another FLC score less than 90 seconds into the fourth quarter, ACU had an 11 play drive stall out at the FLC 14 on downs
• Fort Lewis answered with an 86 yard scoring drive to ice the game 

Thoughts from Coach Maddox
"We are better.  Still a long way to go.  We have so much to do but the good news is it's all fixable.  We'll just continue to get better."

Up Next
Following a bye week, Arizona Christian will travel to Dakota State on September 19.  Kick-off will be at 1:00 pm (Central)/ 11:00 am (Arizona).