UFL Season Opens with Lackluster Attendance and Performance

HOUSTON, Texas – The United Football League (UFL) launched its season on March 28, 2025, with the St. Louis Battlehawks dominating the Houston Roughnecks in a 31-6 victory at TDECU Stadium.

Despite the Battlehawks’ strong performance, the game was marked by a lack of fan enthusiasm, as the stadium remained largely empty throughout the match. Battlehawks quarterback Manny Wilkins showcased his skills by completing 17 of 22 passes for 189 yards, along with 43 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Conversely, the Roughnecks struggled significantly, as quarterbacks Anthony Brown and Nolan Henderson combined for just 12-of-29 passing for 76 yards and two interceptions. The most impressive statistics of the night belonged to Battlehawks running back Jarveon Howard, who achieved 115 rushing yards on 13 carries.

“We played really well as a team,” Wilkins said. “We executed our game plan and I’m proud of the way everyone contributed.”

As the UFL seeks to establish itself in the competitive landscape of American football, questions loom about its ability to draw fans in a season dominated by the NFL and NCAA tournaments. With many fans turning their attention to March Madness and Major League Baseball’s opening weekend, the UFL faces an uphill battle for viewership.

The lack of attendance at the season opener raises concerns about the future viability of the league. Last season’s home opener for St. Louis generated more excitement, largely due to the city’s strong football culture and the lingering sentiment among fans unsettled by the departure of the NFL’s Rams.

Industry experts suggest that St. Louis might have been a more suitable choice for the UFL’s debut. “Opening the season in a city like St. Louis, which has a rich football history and eager fans, could have created a festive atmosphere,” said sports analyst Janet Lee. “In Houston, it felt more like a minor league event.”

Although Fox has not released viewership numbers yet, it’s anticipated that they may not reflect positively, considering the limited attention the game garnered on a Friday night. The UFL’s challenge is clear: it must carve out a niche in a market already saturated with established sports.

The league’s survival hinges on its ability to offer compelling games and attract a fanbase willing to invest their time and resources into minor league football, a challenge that is seemingly daunting as the excitement of conventional sports overshadows its efforts.