Two expansion franchises clash in primetime as the UFL welcomes Columbus and Orlando to the league.
This Week's UFL Schedule
Columbus Aviators at Orlando Storm
| When | Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where | Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, Florida |
| TV | ESPN |
| Line | Orlando Storm -2 | O/U 42 |
This matchup pits two brand-new franchises against each other in what could be a defensive slugfest. Both teams are looking to establish their identity in Year One, with the Storm getting a slight home-field advantage from the oddsmakers. The under 42 total suggests this could be a grinding, low-scoring affair as both squads work out early-season kinks.
Columbus brings veteran leadership under head coach Ted Ginn Jr., while Orlando counters with Anthony Becht's experience. The Aviators have the edge at quarterback with Jalan McClendon, who threw for 1,464 yards last season with Houston and enters camp as the established starter.
Players to Watch:
- Jalan McClendon (Columbus, QB) — Veteran signal-caller who started more than half of last season for Houston and has proven himself since the 2020 XFL.
- Ted Ginn Jr. (Columbus, Head Coach) — Former NFL receiver making his head coaching debut with a franchise looking to establish its culture.
- Anthony Becht (Orlando, Head Coach) — Experienced coach tasked with building the Storm's foundation in their inaugural season.
Pick: Columbus 17-14. McClendon's experience gives the Aviators the edge in what should be a tight, defensive battle between two teams still finding their footing.
UFL Standings
| Team | W | L | PF | PA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Renegades | 1 | 0 | 36 | 17 |
| St. Louis Battlehawks | 1 | 0 | 16 | 10 |
| Birmingham Stallions | 1 | 0 | 15 | 13 |
| Columbus Aviators | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Orlando Storm | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Louisville Kings | 0 | 1 | 13 | 15 |
| DC Defenders | 0 | 1 | 10 | 16 |
| Houston Gamblers | 0 | 1 | 17 | 36 |
Quick Hits
- McClendon has established himself as one of spring football's most underrated quarterbacks since breaking in during the 2020 XFL season.
- Both franchises feature 15 players from Division II and Division III schools, showcasing the UFL's commitment to being a league of opportunity.
- The Storm and Aviators combined have 48 players from FCS programs looking to make their mark at the professional level.
Standings | Full Schedule | League Leaders
Who wins this week? Drop your picks in the comments.