Horsepower on Display: UFL Season Kicks Off with Stallions vs. Kings

by Ethan Berch

ARLINGTON, TX – March 24, 2026 – The wait is over. The 2026 UFL season kicks off Friday night with a matchup that brings no shortage of intrigue, an established powerhouse in Birmingham facing a brand-new franchise in Louisville, making its debut under the lights at Lynn Family Field. 

For the Kings, it’s history. For the Stallions, it’s business as usual.

Storylines to Watch:

New Faces, New Sidelines

All eyes are on two first-year head coaches in AJ McCarron and Chris Redman. Both bring name recognition and high-level football experience, but Friday marks their first real test leading from the sidelines. 

Offensive Firepower on Both Sides 

If you’re looking for offense, this is the game to watch. Both rosters are loaded with playmakers, and both teams want to push the pace. Expect explosive plays and aggressive play-calling early. 

The X-Factor

Jason Bean Louisville’s season may very well hinge on Bean. The former Kansas quarterback hasn’t seen game action since 2023, but his dual-threat ability fits this league perfectly. If the Kings pull the upset, it likely means Bean made plays with both his arm and his legs.

When Louisville Has the Ball 

It starts with Bean. Louisville will look to utilize his mobility to stress Birmingham’s defense and create off-script plays. If the Kings can stay ahead of the chains, they’ll give themselves a real chance to control tempo. 

When Birmingham Has the Ball

With Matt Corral leading the offense, Birmingham brings experience and versatility. Corral’s familiarity with the spring game, and his ability to extend plays, makes this offense difficult to contain when it finds rhythm.

Defensive Edge

For all the attention on offense, Birmingham’s defense may be the difference. Led by a veteran secondary featuring JoJo Tillery and a disruptive front anchored by Tae Crowder, the Stallions bring a unit that many believe is championship-caliber. In this matchup, the edge leans Birmingham.

Home Field Advantage

Louisville isn’t just playing their first game, they are hosting it. A packed Lynn Family Field could provide the Kings an early-season edge and spark momentum this Friday night. 

Impact Players

• Jason Bean (Louisville) - If Bean goes, the Kings go. Simple as that. 
• Matt Corral (Birmingham) - Surrounded by talent, expectations are high. 
• Tae Crowder (Birmingham) - The quarterback of the defense. 

Week One is always unpredictable, especially with two new head coaches.

Birmingham has its quarterback on offense, defense, and on the sidelines. With A.J. McCarron leading the way and a proven structure around him, it’s hard not to lean to the Stallions in this one. But with an expected crowd impact and the potential of Jason Bean under center, the Kings have a real shot at the upset.