Firebirds Stay Unbeaten After Another Statement Win in Billings

Firebirds Stay Unbeaten After Another Statement Win in Billings 

For the second week in a row, the Albany Firebirds found themselves lined up across from the Billings Outlaws — and for the second straight week, Albany came out on top in commanding fashion.

After last weekend’s 62-24 win at home, the Firebirds traveled west for a Week 6 road showdown, this time in hostile territory. But despite the shift in location, the outcome looked very familiar. Albany took control early and never looked back, powering their way to a 39-7 victory to stay perfect on the season.

SETTING THE TONE EARLY

Albany wasted no time putting pressure on the Outlaws. Quarterback Sam Castronova opened the game with an 18-yard touchdown strike to Duane Brown. Kicker Henry Nell added the extra point and followed up with a deuce on the ensuing kickoff to give the Firebirds a quick 9-0 lead.

The defense joined the party moments later when Derrick Jones picked off Billings quarterback Braden Wingle’s first pass and walked it into the endzone, giving Albany a 16-0 advantage before the Outlaws could settle in.

Billings managed a touchdown to close the gap briefly, but Albany countered with a six-play drive capped by a highlight-reel moment — a touchdown reception from offensive lineman Brandon Nicholson to extend the lead to 23-7.

From there, the Firebirds controlled the pace with a balanced offensive attack and lockdown defense. Another Duane Brown touchdown before halftime made it 30-7, and Albany left no doubt about the outcome in the second half.

DEFENSE SLAMS THE DOOR

Albany’s defense held the Outlaws to their lowest scoring output of the season. Billings showed signs of life after halftime but failed to finish drives. Both Wingle and backup quarterback Danny Southwick were picked off, and a botched play on their best second-half drive ended with a sack on fourth down.

Later, the Firebirds forced a safety to increase the lead to 39-7, closing the door on any potential comeback.

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

Duane Brown continued to be a game-changer, catching 9 passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns, earning Real American Beer MVP honors. Castronova finished with another efficient outing, and Derrick Jones’ defensive touchdown helped spark the early momentum.

With the win, Albany improves to 5-0 and continues to establish itself as one of the premier teams in the AF1. Billings falls to 2-2 on the year after the back-to-back defeats.

UP NEXT

The Firebirds will look to keep the undefeated streak alive as they prepare for their next challenge. Stay locked in with us on all social platforms for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes coverage as we chase greatness this season.