DC Defenders Kicker Makes Historic 4-Point Field Goal

Matt McCrane's 60-yard kick sets new UFL record in win over St. Louis Battlehawks.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:48pm

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In a historic moment for the United Football League (UFL), DC Defenders kicker Matt McCrane connected on a 60-yard field goal, earning his team 4 points in their Week 1 matchup against the St. Louis Battlehawks. This was the first time a 4-point field goal has been scored in UFL history, thanks to a new rule change allowing teams to earn 4 points for kicks of 60 yards or more.

Why it matters

The UFL is in its third season and continues to innovate with new rules to enhance the fan experience. McCrane's record-breaking kick showcases the league's commitment to creating exciting moments and highlights the skill of its players, helping to build interest and enthusiasm around the growing professional football league.

The details

With 9:08 remaining in the first quarter, McCrane stepped up and drilled the 60-yard field goal, earning his team 4 points under the new UFL rules. McCrane has been the Defenders' kicker since 2023 and is known for his strong leg, having made 2 of 3 field goals of 50 yards or more last season. The UFL also implemented other new rules this year, including banning the 'tush push', requiring only one foot in bounds for a completion, and prohibiting punts inside the 50-yard line until the final two minutes of each half.

  • The historic 4-point field goal occurred with 9:08 remaining in the first quarter of the Week 1 matchup between the DC Defenders and St. Louis Battlehawks on March 28, 2026.

The players

Matt McCrane

The kicker for the DC Defenders who made the first 4-point field goal in UFL history. McCrane has been with the Defenders since 2023 and is known for his strong leg, having made 2 of 3 field goals of 50 yards or more last season.

DC Defenders

The defending UFL champions, who faced off against the St. Louis Battlehawks in Week 1 of the 2026 season.

St. Louis Battlehawks

The opponents of the DC Defenders in the Week 1 matchup where the historic 4-point field goal was made.

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What’s next

The UFL season continues on Saturday, March 30th, as the Dallas Renegades host the Houston Gamblers at 4 PM ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app.

The takeaway

McCrane's historic 4-point field goal showcases the innovative spirit of the UFL and its commitment to creating exciting new moments for football fans. As the league continues to evolve with rule changes and talented players, it will be interesting to see if more long-distance kicks like this become a regular occurrence.