In a tightly contested preseason Week 1 matchup, the Aztecs under Coach Joseph Poore faced off against the 7th Cav at home, ultimately falling 19-13 in overtime. While the game showed flashes of promising schematic execution, particularly on special teams, several key factors in both offensive and defensive approaches contributed to the narrow defeat.

From the outset, the Aztecs exhibited a solid punting strategy orchestrated by Peter Moore that consistently flipped field position. Moore's ability to deliver crucial punts — including a 58-yard boot in the second quarter — forced the 7th Cav to start deep in their own territory multiple times. This emphasis on territorial advantage was a clear product of Poore’s emphasis on field position control during the preseason. Conversely, the 7th Cav’s punter James Ardis also matched these efforts with key punts and multiple fair catches by Patrick Rivera, keeping their defense fresh and responsive.

Offensively, the Aztecs utilized a 4-4 front early in the game, focusing on maintaining balance between rush and pass. Quarterback Andrés Santillana showed flashes of accuracy in completing 26 of 41 passes for 222 yards and one touchdown, although the offense struggled to capitalize in critical red zone opportunities, failing to convert any trips into touchdowns as noted by their zero red zone visits ending in TDs and 0/0 third-down conversions. Running back Luis Vasquez was a consistent contributor, combining for 40 rushing yards, a rushing touchdown, and adding 36 receiving yards, exemplifying a multi-dimensional role within Poore’s offensive scheme.

Defensively, the Aztecs faced challenges containing the 7th Cav's dynamic rushing attack, particularly allowing a breakout 92-yard touchdown run by Mikel Ditka. Ditka finished with 90 rushing yards and a receiving touchdown, illustrating the 7th Cav’s effective use of outside zone reads and misdirection to exploit defensive overcommitments from the Aztecs' front seven. Although the Aztecs' defense managed to record a sack and recovered a forced fumble by Dustin Knight, the pressure from the 7th Cav’ defensive end Sherlock Holmes, who had three sacks, constantly disrupted Santillana’s rhythm.

Special teams remained a bright spot with kicker George Cook connecting on two field goals but missing a crucial 52-yard attempt wide left in the third quarter. The Aztecs’ inability to convert that field goal attempt and several unsuccessful conversions put additional scoring pressure on the offense.

Offensively, the Aztecs heavily relied on their punting game to maintain some measure of control, resulting in numerous punts inside the opposing 20-yard line, but were unable to convert sustained drives into scoring opportunities beyond the field goals. Additionally, penalties—four for 24 yards—disrupted rhythm at key moments but were not overwhelmingly detrimental.

In overtime, the 7th Cav edged out the Aztecs by capitalizing on stamina and execution in the trenches, rendering Poore's defensive adjustments less effective than hoped after halftime.

All considered, while Coach Joseph Poore’s tactical emphasis on field position and controlled passing attack showed foundational promise, critical breakdowns in run defense and red-zone execution highlight areas for improvement. The preseason setting provides a valuable testing ground for refinement as the Aztecs look to align their scheme components and unleash their potential in the regular season.