By RJ “The Bullish Brahma” Reid
Introduction
There was a bird from Saint Louis that grew up in a coop, a coop that was run-down and filthy. The bird yearned to flee the confines of the dilapidated family coop. One day, the bird finally broke free from the foul-smelling bird cage and basked in its new-found freedom. During its adventures in its new life, the bird begins to think of itself as mighty in stature and wisdom. The bird even gave itself a nickname…Battlehawk. One day, this so-called “Battlehawk” flew into dangerous territory, land that was ferociously protected by the mighty Brahmas. Having delusions of grandeur, the Battlehawk thought it could take down the majestic Brahma; however, the fight was one-sided and ended quickly and violently for the Battlehawk. As the broken body of the bird lay on the ground, the Brahma stood over it and saw that the “Battlehawk” was just a sad, pitiful pigeon.
In Week 3 of the United Football League (UFL), the San Antonio Brahmas (2-0) take on the Saint Louis Battlehawks (1-1) in an early season XFL Conference matchup in San Antonio, Texas. This is the Brahmas’ first chance for revenge against the Battlehawks who defeated the Brahmas in Week 1 last year in very similar fashion that San Antonio defeated Memphis last week. Here’s what you need to know:
When?
Sunday, April 14, 2024 @ 2:00pm CST.
Where?
Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas.
Gameday Weather
The game is being played indoors, obviously, but those who are planning on tailgating, it should be a great day for football in San Antonio. The weather report indicates that it will be 85 degrees, partly cloudy with an 8% chance of rain and 15 mile per hour winds. Great weather for all those who love to tailgate.
History
The Battlehawks lead the series 1-0.
3 Keys to Victory
The Brahmas need to come out of the gate on fire. They struggled for the first three quarters against Memphis and had to win on a dramatic comeback. They need to replicate their performance against the Defenders.
The Brahmas need to improve on 3rd down conversions. They were 3 for 11 on 3rd down against the Showboats. The defense has been really stout, so the offense needs to stay on the field by converting on 3rd downs at a higher rate, allowing the defense to get well deserved rest.
San Antonio needs to rattle AJ McCarron. Week 1, McCarron looked rusty and a little off. Last week against the Renegades, he looked for comfortable. The Brahmas have been doing a good job at bull-rushing quarterbacks so far, and they need to continue that pressure.
Bonus. The next man needs to step up. The injury bug hit the Brahmas hard with center Alex Mollette and kicker Donald De La Haye out. Mollette is out at last 5 weeks and De La Haye is out for the season.
Final Thoughts
The Brahmas return home to San Antonio after their exhilarating victory against the Showboats. The Battlehawks narrowly earned their first victory of the season against the Arlington Renegades. This matchup will feature two of the top quarterbacks, the savvy veteran AJ McCarron of the Battlehawks and early Most Valuable Player candidate rookie Chase Garbers. This game is extremely important for both teams, as first place in the XFL Conference is at stake. If Saint Louis wins, they move ahead of San Antonio with the tiebreaker; however, if San Antonio emerges victorious, they pull ahead of the Battlehawks. With only a 10-game season, each victory is crucial. Fill the dome, San Antonio, and behold the Brahmas stampede their way to victory!