The Las Vegas Bulls cemented their dominance this 1998 regular season with a commanding 24-6 win against the Nashville Notes, improving their record to 13-1 and maintaining their position atop the division with homefield advantage clinched. Notably, this marked their 10th consecutive win, enabled by a disciplined offensive effort and stifling defense, even amid an unusual stat line highlighted by a complete absence of third-down conversion attempts and no recorded red zone visits by either team.
Efficiency in yards and clock control was the hallmark of this contest. The Bulls amassed 352 total yards, leaning heavily on a well-distributed rushing attack with 41 carries for 164 yards and 2 touchdowns. Complementing the run game, quarterback Garry Griggs completed a solid 18 of 28 passes, totaling 188 yards and 2 passing touchdowns without throwing an interception, underscoring his steady leadership under center.
The ground game was spearheaded by James Sotelo, who rushed for 80 yards and added 17 receiving yards, contributing to the Bulls' methodical offensive control. Tight end Jeff Suarez capitalized with 72 receiving yards and a pivotal 2-yard rushing touchdown, while fullback Archie Fulton and wide receiver Morris Whitford added versatility with a receiving touchdown and a rushing score, respectively. Despite their dominance, the Bulls’ red zone efficiency reads zero touchdowns on red zone possessions, suggesting most scoring drives concluded efficiently within the 10-yard line with balanced play calls.
Defensively, the Bulls' performance was equally critical. Head coach Jason Burton’s squad recorded 4 sacks, forced no fumbles but recovered one, and snagged an interception, effectively suppressing the Notes’ offense and limiting them to just 16 rushing yards on 17 attempts and 215 passing yards without any touchdowns. Harold Rice on the Notes delivered a forced fumble but couldn't sway momentum. The Bulls' defensive front consistently pressured the Notes' quarterback John Dawson, who managed 215 passing yards but struggled to convert crucial opportunities into points.
Interestingly, both teams showed an unusual pattern of zero third-down conversions, possibly reflecting conservative play-calling or successful defensive stands that kept drives short. The Bulls were penalized only twice for 15 yards, showcasing discipline on both sides of the ball.
Scoring began early with a 30-yard field goal by Las Vegas' Michael Thomas, answered by Nashville’s John Cohen from 19 yards. Following a missed 47-yard Thomas attempt, the Bulls took control entering the second quarter. Key plays in the final two minutes of the half included Griggs’ deft passing to Kevin Hartshorn and James Sotelo, the latter followed by a crucial fumble recovery by the Bulls at the 2-yard line, setting up Jeff Suarez’s short touchdown reception. The extra point sealed a 10-3 halftime lead.
Nashville's late third-quarter field goal narrowed the gap to 10-6, but turnovers blunted their momentum. A late Notes interception deep in Bulls territory halted a promising drive. The Bulls controlled the remainder of the game through strategic punting and solid defensive stands, keeping the Notes out of reach.
This game further entrenches the Bulls as a powerhouse in the 1998 season, a testament to Coach Burton’s strategic mastery and balanced roster. Their efficiency and adaptability remain key factors as the postseason approaches, with opponents sure to strategize hard against a unit that excels without reliance on flashy third-down conversions or aggressive risk-taking.
Bulls Extend Win Streak to 10 with Dominant 24-6 Victory Over Notes
Las Vegas keeps homefield advantage sealed behind a balanced attack and a suffocating defense despite zero third-down attempts
Robert Steele
· Red Rock Herald
· 12/06/1998