While it’s still early in the UFL season, one team has established itself as a dominant force through the first three games. The D.C. Defenders remain the UFL’s only unbeaten team after claiming a defiant 27-15 victory over the previously unbeaten St. Louis Battlehawks.
Week 3-UFL News HUB “Player Of The Week”
D.C.’s defense relentlessly pounded the Battlehawks, causing four turnovers. As a defensive unit, the Defenders played such an outstanding game that it’s impossible to single out one individual. Therefore, the D.C. defense is this week’s “UFL News Hub Player(s) of the Week.”
Both teams had an identical 2-0 record heading into Sunday’s game, however, the Battlehawks held a slight advantage with the loyal Kaw-Crazed hometown fans at the St. Louis Dome at America’s Center. Furthermore, St. Louis was favored to win, based on the strength of the defense, which had allowed the fewest offensive yards in the league (393) over the first two games.
D.C.’s Outstanding Defensive Performance
But apparently, the visiting team never got the memo. From the opening moments of the game, D.C. dominated. Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu led the offense to score twice in the first quarter while the defense shut down a Battlehawks offense that outscored their previous opponents by a combined total of 42 points. The Defenders kept up a smothering, relentless pressure on St. Louis quarterback Manny Wilkins, resulting in multiple sacks, forced fumbles, and three interceptions.
D.C. linebacker Andre Mintze recorded two sacks along with two tackles. DeAndre Baker had four tackles.
Derick Roberson’s sack on Wilkins resulted in a 3rd and 14 situation. Then Wilkins was picked off by defensive back Michael Ojemudia. DB Willie Drew Jr. had another interception. Bryce Thompson deflected a critical pass to receiver Gary Jennings. Getting an assist from Joseph Wallace, Sam Kidd came up with the third interception. Throughout the evening, D.C. disrupted the Battlehawks’ offense with a dominant, explosive show of strength.
Honorable Mention –UFL News Hub Player of the Week
“UFL News Hub Player Of The Week Honorable Mention” honors go to: Houston Roughnecks safety Leon O’Neal Jr., whose performance on Saturday gave the Roughnecks their first victory this season. O’Neal’s pick-six was the defining moment of the game. In addition to the pick six, O’Neal finished the game with nine tackles, including a TFL and a pass breakup.
This weekend, the undefeated D.C. Defenders will host the winless San Antonio Brahmas at Audi Field on Sunday, April 20th at 5:00 p.m. EDT. The game will be televised on FOX, and tickets are still available.
