Columbus Aviators enjoy electric UFL debut, but fall to DC
The DC Defenders earned their first win of the season, spoiling Columbus’ home debut at Historic Crew Stadium with a 44-26 victory. After managing just 153 yards of offense in Week One, DC erupted for 319 total yards, powered by a dominant rushing attack. Deon Jackson led the way with 97 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
The atmosphere in Columbus was electric early, fueled by a packed crowd, head coach Ted Ginn Jr.’s return home, and a highly anticipated halftime performance from Gavin DeGraw. But the Defenders quickly quieted that energy.
On their third play from scrimmage, Jordan Ta’amu connected with Cornell Powell for a 32-yard gain, setting the tone for the night. Penalties plagued Columbus throughout the first half, helping extend drives and leading to Jackson’s early touchdown as DC jumped in front.
The Aviators showed signs of life behind quarterback Jalan McClendon, who engineered a 13-play, 60-yard drive capped by a six-yard rushing touchdown. His mobility proved to be a key factor, helping Columbus find some offensive rhythm.
However, DC controlled the game with its rushing attack. Ta’amu contributed with his legs, while Xazavian Valladay added a 10-yard touchdown run to cap a 55-yard drive. By halftime, the Defenders had rushed for 121 yards and three touchdowns, taking a 24-14 lead into the break.
The second half quickly swung in DC’s favor. After a chaotic sequence that briefly gave Columbus hope following a fumble recovery, Jackson broke free for a 48-yard touchdown—his third of the night—to extend the Defenders’ lead.
Turnovers continued to hurt the Aviators, including a forced fumble that set up another DC score. Ta’amu later found Briley Moore on a tight end screen for a touchdown, pushing the advantage to 38-14 and effectively putting the game out of reach.
Columbus continued to compete, as McClendon led another scoring drive and finished with over 200 total yards and three touchdowns. Alizé Mack and Tay Martin each found the end zone, with Martin recording his first career UFL touchdown.
DC added two late field goals from Matt McCrane to cap off the scoring and seal a convincing road win.
Ultimately, the ground game told the story. The Defenders rushed for 229 yards and controlled the tempo throughout, while Columbus struggled with penalties and turnovers in its home opener.
The Aviators will look to secure their first win next Sunday on the road against the Renegades at 12:00 PM ET on ABC.