The United Football League (UFL) season kicks off with an engaging encounter between the St. Louis Battlehawks and the Houston Roughnecks on Friday, March 28, 2025. This BattleHawks vs Roughnecks Week 1 game is scheduled for 8:00 PM Eastern Time at Houston’s TDECU Stadium.
Battlehawks vs Roughnecks Preview
The St. Louis Battlehawks concluded the previous season with a 7-3 record, showcasing a robust performance that positioned them among the league’s top contenders. Their offense averaged 25.5 points per game, supported by 174.4 passing yards and 97.6 rushing yards per game. Defensively, they limited opponents to 19.8 points per game, allowing 169.4 passing yards and 89.5 rushing yards per game.
In the offseason, St. Louis bolstered their roster by acquiring quarterback Max Duggan, the 2022 Heisman Trophy runner-up known for his tenure at TCU. The additions of wide receivers Andy Isabella and Denzel Mims aim to enhance their aerial attack. Running back Jacob Saylors is expected to lead the ground game, while the defense benefits from the return of safety Lukas Denis, who brings NFL experience from the Atlanta Falcons.
Conversely, the Roughnecks struggled last season, finishing with a 1-9 record. Their offense managed 15.7 points per game, with 179.9 passing yards and 74.0 rushing yards per game. The defense conceded 22.8 points per game, allowing 186.9 passing yards and 88.4 rushing yards per game.
Houston has made significant roster changes to address these challenges. Quarterback Anthony Brown has been brought in to lead the offense, aiming to revitalize their passing game. Wide receiver Justin Hall, who previously tied for the league lead with 56 receptions and ranked third with 603 receiving yards, remains a key asset. The rushing attack will feature Morgan Ellison, who averaged 6.6 yards per carry, alongside T.J. Pledger IV and Mark Thompson. Defensively, safety Markel Roby, who tied for the league lead with three interceptions, returns to anchor the secondary. Additionally, the team drafted defensive end Eyabi Okie-Anoma with the second overall pick to strengthen their pass rush.
Betting Insights
As the game approaches, the Battlehawks are favored by 6 points at DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under for the game is set at 37.5 points. These figures suggest expectations of a moderately low-scoring game, with the Battlehawks projected to win by at least a touchdown. But in spring football, teams can evolve from one season to the next as players look to elevate themselves to the NFL level in the near future.
St. Louis Battlehawks vs Houston Roughnecks Prediction
BattleHawks -6 (-110) over Roughnecks
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- St. Louis’ offense should have success with the NFL-level talent they added at wide receiver.
- We expect Houston to be a bottom-three team in the UFL again this year.
Analyzing both teams’ previous performances and offseason adjustments, the Battlehawks appear to have a more cohesive and experienced roster. The integration of Max Duggan at quarterback, along with enhancements at the wide receiver position, positions their offense for success. Their defense has consistently performed well, and the return of key players is likely to maintain this standard.
The Roughnecks have made notable changes, particularly at quarterback and in their defensive lineup. However, the effectiveness of these adjustments remains uncertain, especially against a team of the Battlehawks’ caliber. While Houston’s home-field advantage and roster improvements may lead to a more competitive showing than last season, overcoming a 6-point spread against a seasoned opponent is a significant challenge.
Considering these factors, the Battlehawks are projected to cover the spread. The game’s total points are likely to remain under 37.5, given both teams’ defensive strengths and the potential for early-season offensive adjustments.
Prediction: St. Louis Battlehawks 24, Houston Roughnecks 13
Pick: St. Louis Battlehawks -6; Under 37.5 points
