The Billings Marauders edged out the visiting Stampede 28-26 in a tightly contested Week 1 matchup at home on September 5, 2066. Marauders head coach Alexander Dean led his team to a victory marked by key plays on offense and special teams.

The Marauders took an early lead after Stampede kicker Stan Gables opened the scoring with a 51-yard field goal in the first quarter. However, the Marauders answered swiftly as quarterback Norman Calhoun connected with wide receiver Carol Grace for a 75-yard touchdown pass, and Gary Murrieta converted the extra point, making the score 7-3.

Billings extended their lead in the second quarter when Calhoun again found Grace, this time for a 31-yard touchdown, followed by Murrieta's extra point, putting the Marauders ahead 14-6. The Stampede responded late in the half with a 49-yard touchdown reception by Jose Smith from Mark Hamilton. Gables made the extra point, narrowing the gap to 14-13.

Stampede's Gables added two more field goals, contributing all four of his team's successful kicks from four attempts. Meanwhile, the Marauders relied heavily on Calhoun's passing, which accounted for 306 yards and three touchdowns, while Carol Grace totaled 152 receiving yards and two rushing touchdowns. Marauders' Brad Meyers also contributed a rushing touchdown totaling 44 yards on ten carries for the team.

Turnovers played a crucial role. Marauders' Vicente Bell forced a fumble recovered by Maurice Jackson of the Stampede, and the Marauders' defense recorded two sacks but could not secure an interception. Stampede's Hamilton threw one interception, picked off by Todd Light.

Despite strong rushing efforts—particularly by Stampede's Larry Stackhouse, who rushed for 93 yards—the Stampede could not capitalize enough to overcome Billings’ offense. The Marauders maintained their advantage by effectively managing the clock and special teams punting, with Ted McCall repeatedly pinning the Stampede deep.

The win improves the Marauders to 1-0 and places them at the top of their division standings through the first week. Conversely, the Stampede fall to 0-1 as they look to regroup for their next contest.

Billings will aim to build on this victory as the season progresses under Coach Dean's leadership.