By RJ Reid
Game Date: March 29, 2025
Kickoff Time: 3:00pm CST
Location: Choctaw Stadium, Arlington, TX
Overview
As the University of Texas Longhorns’ alma mater song goes, “The eyes of Texas are upon you,” and this rings especially true for the Texas-sized showdown kicking off Week 1 of the United Football League (UFL) season. Dubbed the “Battle of I-35” by fans, this rivalry captivated audiences last season and now sees the San Antonio Brahmas gearing up to defend their XFL Conference Championship title on the road against their in-state rivals, the Arlington Renegades. With the UFL’s regular season limited to just 10 games, every matchup carries weight – especially divisional games. Both teams are eager to start the 2025 season with a win, making this opener a critical step toward early momentum.
Series History
The San Antonio Brahmas lead the series 3-1, having won the last three consecutive games.
Brahmas Outlook
After a disappointing end to an otherwise stellar 2024 season, head coach Wade Phillips – returning for his second year with the Brahmas – is determined to erase the bitter taste of their performance in the 2024 UFL Championship game. The Brahmas have made savvy roster moves, retaining key players and bolstering an already formidable defense with new additions. On offense, wide receiver Jontre Kirklin returns after a standout 2024 season, where he racked up 614 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, while running back John Lovett contributed 421 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns. Defensively, the Brahmas bring back linebacking studs Jordan Williams and Tavante Beckett, two of the UFL’s top performers last year. Williams recorded 64 tackles and 2 sacks, while Beckett led with 74 tackles and 1.5 sacks. The team has shown strengths on both sides of the ball, but Coach Phillips is focused on improving consistency heading into this game.
Renegades Overview
On the other side, the Arlington Renegades struggled to recapture their 2023 XFL Championship magic, finishing the 2024 season with a disappointing 3-7 record. Head Coach Bob Stoops saw his squad flash moments of brilliance but falter due to inconsistent defensive play. Miscues and self-inflicted errors plagued their title defense. Quarterback Luis Perez, returning for his third year with the team, aims to lead the Renegades to a redemption season after topping the UFL in passing yards last year.
Key Matchups
- Quarterback Kellen Mond vs. the Renegades Defense: The return of San Antonio native Kellen Mond is perhaps the most anticipated storyline of the season. Brahmas fans have long hoped the former Texas A&M star would come home after his NFL stint didn’t pan out. Now, Mond looks to revitalize his career in the UFL.
- Jontre Kirklin vs. the Renegades Secondary: Kirklin’s speed and playmaking ability will test Arlington’s defensive backs. If he exploits their inconsistencies, the Brahmas could stretch the field early.
- Brahmas Defensive Line vs. Arlington’s Offensive Line: Tavante Beckett (67 tackles and two forced fumbles in 2024) and the sack-happy Brahmas front seven will aim to disrupt Luis Perez and keep him off-balance.
Keys to Victory for the Brahmas
- Control the Run Game: John Lovett finished second in the UFL in rushing last season and dominated the Renegades in prior meetings. If he can replicate that success, the Brahmas can wear down Arlington’s defense and open opportunities for Mond.
- Limit Turnovers: Protecting the ball will be crucial against a Renegades team hungry for redemption. Avoiding mistakes will keep the Brahmas in control of the game’s tempo.
- Pressure the Quarterback: The Brahmas led the UFL in sacks last season, and their dominant defensive line – featuring returning stars – specializes in getting to the quarterback. Disrupting Perez early and often could tilt the game in their favor.
X-Factor
The return of the XFL-style kickoff could be a game-changer. After the UFL abandoned it in their inaugural season, they’ve reinstated it for 2025 following the NFL’s adoption of the format. This rule change ensures more kickoff returns, elevating the importance of special teams. A dynamic returner could shorten the field for the offense and put immediate pressure on the opposing defense, making this an unpredictable wildcard in the matchup.
Game Predictions
Last year, I finished the season with a 10 and 27 record in my predictions, a 27% accuracy. Overall, my two-year record is 19.5 and 45.5, a 30% accuracy. I’m hoping for a better season this year. Without further ado, here are my predictions for Week 1:
- The Brahmas will have at least a 70% conversion rate on third downs.
- The Brahmas will record at least 3 sacks.
- The Brahmas will rush for at least 100 yards.
- The Brahmas will force at least one turnover.
With both teams vying for an early win, this game will hinge on ball control and defensive execution. The Brahmas dominated the run game last season, and if they can repeat that performance, they’ll limit Luis Perez’s time on the field and neutralize his passing prowess. The Brahmas’ defense, the best in the UFL in 2024, returns key contributors and has added even more talent. While Perez’s league-leading passing stats pose a challenge, the Brahmas’ pressure-heavy scheme should keep him in check. In a hard-fought battle, I predict the Brahmas will topple the Renegades with a final score of 24-13.