Alpine Rams Claim Second Win of the Season in an Instant Classic Against Firenze Red Lions
Bachmeier breaks the single game passing yards record as Rams survive a thrilling finish
Final Score: Firenze Red Lions at Alpine Rams – 42:45
Over 1200 Combined Yards and Counting
Defensive coordinators had a nightmare, fans had a field day. The Alpine Rams and Firenze Red Lions produced one of the most extraordinary games in AFLE history, combining for nearly 1200 total yards, more than any single game in NFL history has ever seen. From start to finish this was a pure shootout with no signs of slowing down.
Bachmeier Breaks the Record Books
The story of the game was the arrival of new Rams quarterback Hank Bachmeier, and what an arrival it was. The new starter completed around 80 percent of his passes for over 550 yards, five passing touchdowns and a perfect passer rating of 158.3, breaking Jakeb Sullivan’s single game passing yards record of 438 set back in Week 3. A statement performance on the biggest possible stage.
Weapons Everywhere
On the Rams side, the receiver corps was on fire. Kevin Kaya was the standout with over 200 receiving yards and four touchdowns, while two other receivers topped 100 yards each as Bachmeier spread the ball effectively all afternoon. Firenze hit back through the duo of quarterback Eystin Salum and receiver Mali Harris-Strayhorn, who once again showed their chemistry, with running back Brendan Belgrave also making a significant contribution as a pass catcher out of the backfield.
Flags Everywhere Too
With all the fireworks came the chaos. Both teams were dreadfully undisciplined, combining for 31 penalties and over 260 total penalty yards. It was messy, but nobody in the stands seemed to mind.
A Finish to Remember
The Red Lions had one last chance to force overtime on their final drive. Salum looked to have his team in the end zone, but a penalty wiped the play out. Firenze could not punch it in from there, and the subsequent field goal attempt was blocked, ending any hope of overtime and sealing a second win of the season for the Alpine Rams in the most dramatic fashion possible.
