Key Points:
- Birmingham Stallions win inaugural UFL Championship, improving to 32-4 all-time under head coach Skip Holtz
- Stallions’ high-powered offense and stifling defense prove too much for top-rated San Antonio Brahmas defense
- UFL MVP Adrian Martinez accounts for all three touchdowns, named UFL Championship Game MVP
The Birmingham Stallions dominated the San Antonio Brahmas 25-0 Sunday at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis to win the inaugural United Football League Championship in front of 27,396 fans per SI’s Mike Mitchell.
The Stallions, boasting an 11-1 record, showcased their high-powered offense and an inspired defensive performance to secure their third straight championship under head coach Skip Holtz. The Brahmas, who entered the game with an 8-4 record and the league’s top defense, were unable to contain Birmingham’s offensive firepower.
Birmingham Stallions
The Stallions’ offense, led by UFL MVP Adrian Martinez, broke through the scoreless tie late in the first half and never looked back. Martinez finished the game 13-of-28 for 98 yards and one touchdown, while also rushing for 52 yards and two scores on 11 carries.
The Stallions’ ground game was paced by Ricky Person Jr., who amassed 102 yards on 13 carries. Birmingham’s defense was equally impressive, holding the Brahmas to just 208 total yards and forcing three fumbles, two of which were recovered by the Stallions.
Top 5 Stallions Offensive Players:
- Adrian Martinez: 13/28 passing, 98 yards, 1 TD; 11 carries, 52 yards, 2 TDs
- Ricky Person Jr.: 13 carries, 102 yards
- Marlon Williams: 4 receptions, 36 yards
- Jace Sternberger: 4 receptions, 19 yards
- Gary Jennings: 2 receptions, 19 yards, 1 TD
Top 5 Stallions Defensive Players:
- Kyahva Tezino: 9 total tackles, 2 forced fumbles
- Damon Lloyd: 6 total tackles, 1 sack
- Lorenzo Burns: 6 total tackles
- Daniel Isom: 5 total tackles
- Nevelle Clarke: 5 total tackles
San Antonio Brahmas
The Brahmas’ offense struggled to find a rhythm against the Stallions’ stout defense, managing just 208 total yards. Quarterback Chase Garbers completed 18-of-26 passes for 116 yards, while the rushing attack was held to a mere 52 yards on 16 carries. San Antonio’s defense, which had been the league’s best throughout the season, was unable to slow down Birmingham’s balanced offensive attack.
Quarterback Quiten Dormady tried to provide a spark in the second half with little effect.
Top 5 Brahmas Offensive Players:
- Chase Garbers: 18/26 passing, 116 yards
- Anthony McFarland: 9 carries, 32 yards; 6 receptions, 38 yards
- Calvin Turner: 5 receptions, 49 yards
- Jontre Kirklin: 5 receptions, 23 yards
- Marquez Stevenson: 3 receptions, 34 yards
Top 5 Brahmas Defensive Players:
- Teez Tabor: 10 total tackles
- Delontae Scott: 6 total tackles
- Tavante Beckett: 6 total tackles
- A.J. Hendy: 6 total tackles
- Bryce Thompson: 5 total tackles
With this victory, the Birmingham Stallions cement their place in UFL history, capturing the inaugural championship and continuing their dominance from the USFL. The Stallions’ performance throughout the season has been nothing short of remarkable, as evidenced by their impressive record and their place atop the UFL standings.
Stallions fans, how do you think this team stacks up against the great Birmingham teams of the past? Brahmas fans, what do you think the team needs to do to bounce back next season? Let us know in the comments below!
