Brahmas Hold Off Defenders in Gritty 24-18 Road Victory

Washington, D.C. – The D.C. Defenders suffered their first loss of the season, falling to the San Antonio Brahmas 24-18. In a game defined by red zone efficiency and discipline, San Antonio came away with the win on Saturday despite being outgained by nearly 200 total yards.

San Antonio Marches to a 12-0 Lead

The Brahmas struck early, scoring on their opening drive as Aidan Robbins capped an 11-play, 76-yard possession with a 2-yard rushing touchdown (PAT attempt failed). Later in the quarter, Matthew Sexton electrified the crowd with an 83-yard punt return touchdown, extending the Brahmas' lead to 12-0 (PAT attempt failed).

Red Zone Efficiency Makes the Difference

San Antonio capitalized on all three of their red zone trips, including two short-yardage touchdowns by Robbins. In contrast, the Defenders moved the ball effectively between the 20-yard lines but struggled to finish drives, converting just one of three red-zone opportunities.

The Defenders' lone red zone touchdown came when quarterback Jordan Ta'amu scrambled for a 7-yard score with 10:06 remaining in the third quarter to tie the game at 18. However, in the final moments—down 24-18—the Defenders failed to convert on 4th-and-9 from the Brahmas’ 9-yard line as Ta’amu’s pass fell incomplete, sealing the win for San Antonio.

Mond vs. Ta’amu

Both quarterbacks played mistake-free football and were effective in managing their respective offenses. San Antonio quarterback Kellen Mond completed 14 of 20 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown, showing poise and control under pressure. Jordan Ta’amu responded with a big performance, throwing for 300 yards on 19 completions and leading the Defenders on the ground with 74 rushing yards, including a rushing touchdown.

Payton Pardee Earns First Win

The game marked the first win for interim head coach Payton Pardee, who stepped in following the announcement that head coach Wade Phillips would be taking a leave of absence. Pardee, previously the team’s offensive coordinator, guided San Antonio to a composed and disciplined performance.

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Next Up

The Defenders (3-1) will hit the road next week to face the Arlington Renegades (3-1). The kickoff is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, at noon ET.