UFL Attendance: St. Louis Continues to Shine
The football-mad denizens of Gateway City once again came out in droves to support their Battlehawks against the D.C. Defenders. Both teams are battling for a spot in the XFL conference playoffs. DC desperately needs a win this afternoon to stay alive in the playoff race, as they’re currently sitting in third place. If the Defenders lose and the San Antonio Brahmas win on Sunday, their playoff dreams are over.
Per Sports Illustrated’s Mike Mitchell, over 32,000 fans attended the thrilling affair between the Defenders and host Battlehawks
What happened?
After a tepid first half, the scoring picked up a little steam in the second half, with each team exchanging touchdowns in the third quarter. Former Arizona State quarterback Manny Wilkins drew the start when starter A.J. McCarron’s injury ruled him out for today’s game. Wilkins led the Battlehawks to victory with efficiency as a passer and runner. DC’s starter Jordan Ta’amu returned to action after being injured last week.
The last few minutes of the fourth quarter were a wild back and forth affair in which both teams exchanged last gasp touchdowns. Ta’amu bravely led his team down the field but was injured on a third down sack, resulting in a fourth and miracle territory for backup Jalen McClendon. The attempt failed and the Battlehawks clinched a playoff spot while the Defenders ended their bid.
Before kickoff, the over/under settled at 44, and the ESPN bookmakers named St. Louis 3.5-point favorites. Both the over/under hit and St. Louis covers the spread by a thin margin.
Congrats to the Battlehawks for clinching a spot in the playoffs!
What’s next for each team?
The Battlehawks travel to Arlington to take on the woebegone Renegades next Saturday at Noon. DC faces a trip to the Volunteer State to battle the last-place Memphis Showboats in a match that won’t matter in the playoff chase.
Joseph is a veteran writer of many publications past and present. He is a long-time Tennessee Titans fan and draft scout/analyst, along with writing about the league is a passion project. Mr. Yun has been credentialed to the Senior Bowl multiple times. Readers will find he brings the juice with a scout’s eye and analytical mind. Follow me on Twitter @2Yoon2ZeroBlitz for more good stuff!