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Battlehawks Prevail 16-10 in UFL Opener
St. Louis team overcomes four-point field goal by defending champions DC Defenders
Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:29pm
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The St. Louis Battlehawks came from behind to defeat the defending champion DC Defenders 16-10 in the opening game of the United Football League season. The Defenders scored first with a 60-yard four-point field goal, but the Battlehawks responded with a 58-yard field goal of their own and a 10-yard touchdown pass to take the lead in the third quarter.
Why it matters
The UFL is a new professional football league that is looking to provide an alternative to the NFL and attract fans with innovative rule changes like the four-point field goal. The Battlehawks' comeback win over the defending champions is an exciting start to the league's second season.
The details
The Defenders scored first with a 60-yard four-point field goal by kicker Matt McCrane, taking advantage of a new UFL rule change. The Battlehawks responded with a 58-yard field goal by Tucker McCann. The Defenders extended their lead to 10-3 with a one-yard rushing touchdown by Deon Jackson. However, the Battlehawks rallied in the second half, with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Brandon Silvers to Tyler Neville and a late insurance field goal by McCann. The Battlehawks defense also recorded seven sacks.
- The game was played on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
- The Defenders scored the first points with a 60-yard four-point field goal on their opening drive.
- The Battlehawks responded with a 58-yard field goal later in the first quarter.
- The Defenders extended their lead to 10-3 with a one-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter.
- The Battlehawks took the lead with a 10-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter.
The players
Matt McCrane
The kicker for the DC Defenders who made the first-ever four-point field goal in UFL history.
Tucker McCann
The kicker for the St. Louis Battlehawks who made a 58-yard field goal and a late insurance field goal.
Deon Jackson
The running back for the DC Defenders who scored a one-yard rushing touchdown.
Brandon Silvers
The quarterback for the St. Louis Battlehawks who threw the game-winning 10-yard touchdown pass.
Tyler Neville
The wide receiver for the St. Louis Battlehawks who caught the 10-yard touchdown pass.
What they’re saying
“That four-point field goal was a game-changer. We knew we had to respond quickly.”
— Tucker McCann, Kicker, St. Louis Battlehawks
“Our defense really stepped up in the second half to shut down their offense. That was the key to the win.”
— Brandon Silvers, Quarterback, St. Louis Battlehawks
What’s next
The Battlehawks will visit the Dallas Renegades on April 7 for their next game.
The takeaway
The Battlehawks' comeback victory over the defending champions in the UFL opener showcases the league's innovative rules and the competitive parity among the teams. This thrilling start to the season should generate excitement and interest in the growing United Football League.
