The St. Louis Battlehawks soared to victory over the Orlando Guardians in front of 33,034 fans at The Dome on Sunday, winning 53-28. The Battlehawks improved their record to 7-3, keeping their playoff hopes alive as they wait for the Seattle Sea Dragons results.
Quarterback AJ McCarron had a record-breaking day for the Battlehawks, completing 28 of 35 passes for 420 yards, averaging 12.0 yards per completion, and throwing six touchdown passes with no interceptions. This stellar performance contributed significantly to the team’s commanding win. The Battlehawks were the first XFL team ever to cross 50 points. McCarron’s 420 yards passing and 6 touchdowns are also an XFL all-time record.
His six touchdown passes in the game, brought his total touchdown passes for the season to 19. This is a new record for any quarterback in the XFL’s three seasons, surpassing Tommy Maddox’s previous record of 18 touchdown passes in 2001.
The Battlehawks’ offense was well-rounded, with contributions from Mataeo Durant (8 carries for 36 yards) and Kareem Walker (7 carries for 33 yards and a touchdown). St. Louis’ receivers also played a crucial role in the victory, with Hakeem Butler leading the way (9 receptions for 164 yards and 2 touchdowns).
The Guardians struggled to keep up with the Battlehawks’ explosive offense. Despite having three quarterbacks share passing duties, they combined for 342 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions. The Orlando rushing attack was held to just 38 yards on 15 carries.
Jordan Thomas stood out among the Guardians’ receivers, hauling in four receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome the strong defensive performance from the Battlehawks, which included 54 total tackles, four sacks, and three interceptions.
With the win, the Battlehawks now look ahead Sunday nights game between the Vipers and Sea Dragons, while the Guardians end their season with a disappointing 1-9 record.
In this high-scoring affair, AJ McCarron’s outstanding performance will undoubtedly be remembered as the driving force behind the Battlehawks’ dominant victory over the Guardians.
XFL Box Score
