One of the biggest questions facing the Fishers Freight entering their second season in the Indoor Football League (IFL) centered on the defense. The team was expected to feature a high-powered offense and strong kicking game, but could the defense hold up?

That question was answered in the season opener Saturday night.

The Freight defeated a team widely projected as a championship contender, the Quad City Steamwheelers, 45-27 at the Fishers Event Center.

Fishers’ defense had a few difficult moments in the first half, but the Freight still carried a 24-20 lead into halftime thanks to a last-second “tush push” touchdown. An IFL tush push is a bit different than the NFL version, with two players already on the move when the ball is snapped, driving the quarterback forward with momentum.

The Freight offense delivered several big plays throughout the game. Josiah King broke loose for a long touchdown run, while wide receiver CJ Windham hauled in three touchdown passes from quarterback Felix Harper, who had a strong performance in the opener.

JT Stokes scored the first touchdown of the 2026 IFL season on Fishers’ opening offensive series.

Kicker Calum Sutherland was perfect on the night and also added a “deuce” — a two-point kickoff under IFL rules — at a key moment late in the second half, giving the Freight a three-score advantage.

Fishers’ defense added to the lead with a safety with about ten minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.

Quad City attempted to mount a late drive in the final minute, but the Steamwheelers turned the ball over on downs, sealing the Freight victory.

With the win, Fishers opens the season 1-0. The Freight will travel to face the Green Bay Blizzard on March 21 before returning home after a bye week.