Date: Sunday, April 13, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET
Location: The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, MO
Broadcast: ABC
Records: Battlehawks (2–0), Defenders (2–0)
Week 3 of the UFL features more than just a battle between two undefeated teams — it’s a grudge match between bitter rivals. The St. Louis Battlehawks and DC Defenders have developed one of the league’s most intense rivalries, fueled by fierce games, passionate fan bases, and a shared ambition to rule the XFL Conference. Sunday’s game could be a defining moment in that growing rivalry.
🏟️ St. Louis Battlehawks: Flying High with Momentum
The Battlehawks soared to a decisive 26–9 win over San Antonio in Week 2, powered by a dominant performance on both sides of the ball. Returning to the Dome for another packed-house showdown, St. Louis enters Week 3 confident and locked in.
Who to Watch:
- Jacob Saylors (RB): The UFL’s Week 2 breakout star found the end zone three times and showed big-play ability that can tilt a game in seconds.
- Manny Wilkins (QB): Wilkins continues to fly under the radar despite completing over 76% of his passes. His smart, calm leadership fits perfectly with St. Louis’ steady offensive rhythm.
Defensive Excellence:
The Battlehawks defense has quickly established itself as a top-tier unit. Against the Brahmas, they controlled the line of scrimmage and forced multiple key stops — setting the tone for their undefeated start.
🛡️ DC Defenders: Masters of the Close Game
The Defenders squeezed past the Memphis Showboats 17–12 in Week 2, leaning on timely stops and clutch special teams to preserve the win. They’ve built their identity on physicality, grit, and doing just enough to survive tight games — especially in high-pressure moments.
Impact Players:
- Jordan Ta’amu (QB): Still inconsistent through the air (under 50% completion), but dangerous when he extends plays. His deep-ball potential is a game-changer if he finds his rhythm.
- Defensive Front: This unit continues to create chaos. Whether it’s red zone stops or game-saving blocks, they’re the heartbeat of the Defenders’ grind-it-out approach.
💥 Rivalry Heating Up
While UFL rivalries are still young, Battlehawks vs. Defenders is already one of the fiercest. The two squads battled in tight games during the 2023 and 2024 spring seasons, often with playoff consequences on the line. Their fanbases bring the energy online and in the stands — and you can expect no love lost when these two meet in St. Louis.
This isn’t just a game; it’s personal.
🔮 Prediction
This game could come down to the final possession. But with the Dome crowd behind them and the more efficient offense, St. Louis has the edge.
- Final Score Prediction: Battlehawks 24, Defenders 17
- X-Factor: Manny Wilkins’ control vs. DC’s pressure. If he handles the heat, St. Louis stays unbeaten.
🗣️ What’s at Stake?
Both teams want the top spot in the XFL Conference — and bragging rights in one of the UFL’s best budding rivalries. Expect a playoff-caliber atmosphere, big hits, and high emotion in this can’t-miss matchup.
image credit: David from Washington, DC, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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