UFL 2025 Championship Quest: Birmingham's Dynasty Tested as Legends Clash in Season Opener
As UFL kicks off its 2025 season, defending champion Birmingham faces hungry challengers while legendary coaches add depth to spring football's rising popularity.

The Dynasty's Next Chapter
The Birmingham Stallions enter the 2025 UFL season carrying the weight of unprecedented success - three consecutive championships (2022-2024) across two leagues. Coach Skip Holtz's squad remains the team to beat, boasting a remarkable 26-4 regular season record over three years.
"Great players respond to great challenges," Holtz said at media days. "Every opponent circles our game on their calendar. That's the mark of true success - becoming everyone's measuring stick."
Quarterback Alex McGough returns after NFL stints, ready to replace MVP Adrian Martinez:
"Pressure is privilege. Not many athletes get to defend a dynasty. We embrace the target and trust our preparation."
Coaching Legends Collide
The UFL features unparalleled coaching star power:
- Wade Phillips (77) continues his historic career with San Antonio
- Bob Stoops seeks redemption after uneven Arlington seasons
- Tom Cable returns from retirement to mentor Houston's offensive line
Phillips shared his unique perspective:
"At 77, I still get chills on gameday. This league lets me coach at the highest level while enjoying summers with family."
Quarterback Battles Rock the League
Key position competitions:
Team | QB Candidates | Notes |
---|---|---|
St. Louis | Wilkins/Duggan/Cordeiro | Replacing AJ McCarron's production |
Arlington | Luis Perez | 2024 passing leader returns |
Birmingham | McGough/Corral | Reigning champs retooling |
St. Louis coach Anthony Becht emphasized mobility:
"We're changing our identity with quarterbacks who can extend plays. The days of getting pinned in the pocket are over."
What to Watch in Week 1
- Birmingham at DC Defenders: Champ's first road test
- San Antonio's revamped defense under Wade Phillips
- Arlington's high-powered offense led by Stoops/Perez
As Holtz noted: "Trophies collect dust. This team must write its own story starting now."
Why This UFL Season Matters
Spring football enters its most competitive era yet with:
- Proven coaches implementing NFL-caliber systems
- Emerging dual-threat quarterbacks changing offensive schemes
- Increased scouting attention as pathway to NFL rosters
- Championship pedigree raising overall league quality