HFL Power Rankings - Week 3
- Georgescu B. Andrei
- 5 hours ago
- 5 min read
Budapest Wolves (3-0)
In a tough rematch against Győr, the Wolves leaned heavily on a dominant defensive performance that repeatedly shut down Győr’s offense at key moments. From the opening quarter, it was clear that this wouldn’t be the same kind of high-scoring rhythm seen in their previous meeting.
The Wolves struck early when QB Tóth Levente connected with WR Pfisztner Máté Oszkár for a touchdown with just over three minutes left in the first quarter. Shortly after, Molnár Zalán recovered a crucial fumble, setting the tone for what would become a defensive showcase.
Despite the early momentum, the Wolves’ offense didn’t flow as smoothly as in their last matchup against Győr. Drives were harder to sustain, and every yard had to be earned against a disciplined defense. Still, the connection between Tóth and Pfisztner delivered again in the second quarter, extending the lead with another passing touchdown.
Special teams also played a decisive role. DB/K Szakács Kristóf Gergely was flawless under pressure, converting the extra point and adding two critical field goals just before halftime, including one as time expired, giving the Wolves valuable breathing room.
Meanwhile, the defense continued to shine. An interception by Tóth Alejandro István and another fumble recovery, this time by Borek Dávid Zoltá, highlighted a unit that consistently delivered when it mattered most.
It wasn’t a perfect performance, and the offense clearly faced more resistance than before. But with a relentless defense and clutch kicking, the Wolves found a way to secure a hard-fought victory.
Budapest Cowbells (2-0)
The Cowbells came into this matchup looking like a team on a mission and from the very first quarter, they made it clear they were there to take control.
Their ground game set the tone early. RB Richard Seay Jr. led a physical, relentless rushing attack, finding the end zone twice and consistently moving the chains. Behind strong blocking and disciplined execution, the Cowbells dictated the pace of the game and kept the opposing defense under constant pressure.
That early momentum only grew stronger. A quick forced fumble by DL Douglas Atkins recovered by Fróna Levente helped the Cowbells maintain control, and they capitalized efficiently. Seay didn’t just dominate on the ground, he also made an impact through the air, connecting with TE Habermayer Marcell for a touchdown.
As the game progressed, the offense showed its versatility. WR/DB Rogria Donell Lewis Jr. became a key playmaker, hauling in the endzone twice.
Defensively, the Cowbells matched their offensive intensity. They stayed disciplined, forced mistakes, and limited opportunities throughout the game. The performance was capped off in the fourth quarter when Lewis added an interception return touchdown, underlining just how complete this effort was.
In the end, this was a statement performance. Strong on the ground, efficient through the air, and solid on defense. The Cowbells didn’t just win; they controlled every phase of the game.
Újpest Bulldogs (1-2)
The Újpest Bulldogs showed resilience, but a slow start and late-game disruption proved costly.
The first half felt off. The offense couldn’t really find its rhythm, and the defense struggled to settle in. There were moments, like the first offensive drive, a trick play that ended up as a touchdown between WR Bradley Steven Schlom and QB/WR Domonkos Horváth, finished with the extra point by Miskolczi Barnabás.
DB Daego Garland James Albert added an interception to keep things within reach.
Momentum shifted quickly as Barnabás converted a field goal, and shortly after, QB Emhő Lóránt found Daego Albert for a touchdown. By the fourth quarter, another scoring connection, this time between Lóránt and DB/WR Rabi Mulenga Bunga, brought Újpest right back into the game.
However, just as the Bulldogs were building control, the game took a chaotic turn. Penalties and an ejection disrupted their momentum, making it difficult to maintain their push and complete the comeback.
Despite the loss, the second-half performance showed what this team is capable of when everything clicks.
Blue Dragons Belgrade (1-1)
The Blue Dragons didn’t take the field this week, but they remain firmly in their current spot as the season continues.
So far this season, the Blue Dragons have shown they can compete, and staying in position without playing keeps them right in the mix. Now, the focus shifts to their next matchup, where they’ll look to come back refreshed and ready to make an impact.
Győr Sharks (0-2)
Compared to their previous game against the Wolves, Győr’s defense showed clear improvement. They managed to slow down the Wolves’ offense, forcing tougher drives and limiting big plays. The difference was noticeable, Wolves had to work much harder for every point this time around.
DB Pogátsa Bendegúz made a huge impact with an interception return touchdown in the second quarter, adding the extra point as well. However, while the defense stepped up, the offense struggled to capitalize. Turnovers proved costly, including an interception in the second quarter and multiple fumbles that halted promising drives. Each missed opportunity made it harder to keep pace in what turned into a tight contest.
Even with those setbacks, Győr stayed competitive throughout the game. RB Christopher Lashawn Brinson found the end zone on the ground, followed again by a successful extra point from Pogátsa, keeping Győr within reach. Their defensive unit gave them chances to turn the tide, but the lack of offensive execution ultimately made the difference.
This was a game that showed Győr’s potential, especially defensively, but also highlighted the importance of consistency and ball security in close matchups.
Budapest Titans (0-2)
The Budapest Titans didn’t take the field this week, but the standings didn’t stand still around them.
Without the chance to compete, the Titans find themselves dropping a spot as other teams made their case with strong performances. It’s a tough reminder of how competitive the league is, movement can happen even on a bye week.
The upcoming round promises some of the most exciting action of the season so far.
On 5.02, all eyes will be on the clash between two undefeated teams as the Budapest Cowbells face the Budapest Wolves. Both sides have looked dominant in their own way. Cowbells with their powerful, well-balanced attack, and the Wolves with a defense that consistently delivers in key moments. With first place on the line, this matchup will decide who stays on top and sends a strong message to the rest of the league.
In another important game, the Budapest Titans will take on the Belgrade Blue Dragons. The Titans are still searching for their first win of the season and will be highly motivated to break through. On the other side, the Blue Dragons are eager to prove they belong, looking to show they can compete and make an impact in this league.
With pride, momentum, and standings all at stake, the next round is shaping up to be a defining moment in the season.