In a season of uncertainty and change the Battlehawks took care of business with a week one victory against the 2025 UFL champions and their rivals the D.C. Defenders. Under new Head Coach Ricky Proehl the Battlehawks put together a defensive master class with a 16-10 victory, opening the season 1-0 to start 2026.
What Went Right:
Front Seven Masterclass:
The Battlehawks front seven accounted for 5.5 sacks, with 7 total in week one, putting them on pace for 70 (unrealistic I know) this season. Last year the Battlehawks totaled 23 sacks in 10 regular season games last year which was the most in franchise history. The team was anchored by Pita Taumoepenu, who put consistent pressure on Defenders QB Jordan Ta'amu all day. What doesn't show up in the stat sheet is most if not all of Ta'amu's rushes were due to broken down protections. Taumopenu now has 21.5 sacks in his career (30 games), which is only behind Chris Odom whose 25 sacks came in 37 games.
Kevon Latulas is a budding Superstar:
Latulas had a major impact in the passing game which in the AIR-RAID offense is key. Look for Latulas to put together Max Borghi like numbers in 2026, after totaling 84 All-Purpose Yards in week one.
He can hit from deep:
The Battlehawks have had a plethora of success out of their kickers, and Tucker McCann is the next one on that list. McCann hit from 58 yards out with plenty of distance left to spare. While he missed a mid-range FG attempt, McCann has shown he's extremely capable to hold it down with a 3/4 performance.
What Went Wrong:
Drops Upon Drops:
Despite throwing for almost 200 yards QB Brandon Silvers was the victim of at least 7 drops, many of which would of moved the chains and extended drives for the Battlehawks. The Battlehawks were without All-League receiver Hakeem Butler however, none of the St. Louis receivers failed to capitalize with their extend playing time.
Move the Pile:
The Battlehawks rushing attack was non-existent at times, however tough running by Latulas and Howard allowed for an overall output that looked better at the end of the game. Failing to punch it in from less than a yard out is unacceptable and should warrant adjustment moving forward. While the D.C. Defenders defensive line could be considered one of the better units in the league the team needs to get a little bit more from the offensive line, in order to open up the passing game.
Milestone Watch:
Brandon Silvers is 23 yards away from 4,000 career passing yards, and surpassed Birmingham Stallions Head Coach A.J. McCarron for the 4th most passing yards in spring football since 2001.
Pita Taumoepenu is 3.5 sacks away from 25 sacks which would tie him with Chris Odom for the most in the modern era of spring football.
Travis Feeney is 3 sacks away from 20 career sacks. He is also 13 tackles away from 200 career spring football tackles.
Final Thoughts:
There is plenty to be excited for after week one in St. Louis. Quarterback Brandon Silvers overall had a pretty game, and despite drops continues to perform at a high level in A.J. Smith's offense. While the Battlehawks didn't dominate on the ground their consistent ability to stay within the gameplan allowed the team to keep the Defenders, honest and tired rather than abandoning the run completely. Overall, with a dominating pass rush and high level play in the secondary the Battlehawks defense may be the story of their team.
St. Louis goes into week 2 against the Dallas Renegades in the hopes of earning their second victory of the season.