Winless No More? Columbus, DC Collide

by Ethan Berch

ARLINGTON, TX – March 31, 2026 – Following the conclusion of Week One of the UFL season, the Aviators and Defenders are set to kick off Week Two. Both teams suffered defeat, and one will walk away with their first victory of the season Friday night.

Storylines to Watch:

DC Defenders
The DC Defenders were stunned in St. Louis this past weekend. After a hot start, DC was completely shut down over the final three quarters, falling 16-10.

If DC rebounds Friday night, it starts with the offensive line. Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu was under pressure all game long and was sacked seven times. He never had the chance to settle into a rhythm, and the lack of protection led to two interceptions. If the Defenders want to bounce back, protecting their quarterback is priority number one.

The offensive struggles were evident across the board. DC totaled just 153 yards of offense, their lowest output even before last year. However, there was a glimpse of what they’re capable of, as Ta’amu led a 10-play, 66-yard touchdown drive on their second possession.

Another major issue came on third down, where DC finished just 3-for-10. Their inability to convert kept drives short and stalled any offensive momentum.

On a much brighter note, DC’s defense remained dominant and gave them a chance to win despite the offensive struggles. They recorded three sacks, six tackles for loss, and allowed just 236 total yards. If that unit performs at a similar level again, DC will be in a strong position to win.

Special teams also remain a strength. Matt McCrane continues to prove he’s one of the best kickers in the UFL, knocking through the league’s first four-point field goal. He’s a weapon who can swing momentum at any time.

Lastly, discipline must improve. DC was flagged 12 times last week, more than any other team, and that simply can’t continue.

Columbus Aviators
Columbus faced similar struggles on offense. Despite Jalan McClendon throwing for 212 yards, the Aviators lacked explosive plays throughout the game. He did not throw a touchdown, and much of the passing production felt like empty yardage.

They were also missing the momentum-changing play they needed. If McClendon can elevate the passing attack, Columbus will put itself in a position to secure its first win.

To their credit, the Aviators did move the ball effectively between the 20s. They finished with 19 first downs and rushed for 120 yards as a team. ZaQuandre White led the way with 48 yards, while Toa Taua added 30, and McClendon contributed 30 of his own.

The biggest issue came in the red zone. Todd Haley’s offense struggled to finish drives, going just 1-for-5 and settling for three field goals. Meanwhile, their opponent capitalized at a much higher rate.

Defensively, Columbus looked exactly as advertised, aggressive, physical, and disruptive. They generated consistent pressure with a strong pass rush and made impact plays. However, they also gave up costly big plays, including scoring drives of 80 and 94 yards.

The Aviators finished with four team sacks, led by Ron Stone Jr., who recorded a league-best two on Sunday night. Given DC’s struggles up front, Columbus’ defensive front could be in line for another big performance.

Columbus will also make its home debut at Historic Crew Stadium, marking Ted Ginn Jr.’s first home game as a head coach, and a chance to earn his first career win.

X-Factor:
The story Friday night will be which offense can find its rhythm first. Both defenses have shown they can control a game, but whichever offense gets going early and sustains drives will be in the best position to come away with its first win of the season.