1. Carlstad Crusaders The Crusaders are the reigning back-to-back champions and will once more be the frontrunner to bring home the Superserien title. Although there has been some turnover in Carlstad , the Crusaders have recruited a very good class of Imports featuring ELF-Winning Quarterback Jackson Erdmann , RB De’Anta Sipp and Edge Rusher Blake Nelson . You can only expect the young core of Homegrowns to have taken the next step in their development as well, so the first game for the Crusaders against Örebro will be one that will set the narrative for the remainder of the season. 2. Tyresö Royal Crowns The Royal Crowns have been loading up on talent during the offseason! An already well-established and talented core of homegrown players got reinforced with the return of OT Oscar Strömstedt from the Raiders Tirol , Guard/Center Ludwig Rötzscher from the Potsdam Royals , Quarterback Trevor Vasey from Örebro and many more. Though they had to let both Linebackers Rory Nethercott and Cole Brockwell leave for the Calanda Broncos in Switzerland, they will be a force to be reckoned with once more and have their eyes set on the title. 3. Örebro Black Knights This was honestly a toss-up between Tyresö and Örebro with the benefit of the doubt going to Tyresö since they reached the Superserien final the previous year. The departure of RB of the Year Jakub Brezina will undoubtably be felt in HC Branko Mutic ’s system with all hope lying on the shoulders of former NFL WR Antony Ratliff-Williams . 4. Stockholm Mean Machines This could’ve gone to Göteborg but since they’re a newly promoted team we went with the former Superserien Champ Stockholm Mean Machines . They brought back QB Dawson Herl , replaced LT Samuel Wretman with ELF-winning Emmanuel Häfele and kept their skill positions widely intact. The edition of swiss Edge Rusher Nathan Tompsett could be a sneaky good one as Stockholm Mean Machines will try to rekindle the flame of their former success. 5. Göteborg Giants The Giants are not messing around. Their first match back in Superserien saw them lose only 20-22 to last years finalist Tyresö Royal Crowns and they blew out AIK 34-7 the following week. Many players are not yet household names in Sweden but there is a feeling that this could change soon. 6. Limhamn Griffins The Griffins barely edged out Kristianstad in their first match of the year but showed some flashes. With the interesting acquisitions they’ve made during the offseason and the return of OL David Strobel from the Nordic Storm , Limhamn could definitely be a team that can annoy on or the other playoff contender during this year. 7. AIK AIK currently has not announced a QB and lost their first game 34-7 to newly promoted Göteborg . The newly acquired Enoch Stephens Muwanguzi (from Kristianstad Predators ) and the renewal of Josh Hicks are positive signs but we’ll have to wait for an official roster release to say more. 8. Kristianstad Predators The Predators lost all of their key Imports from last year and will be having a tough time to recreate the playoff results from last year. Nevertheless, if the team can get some momentum going everything is possible with Kristianstad .

The first Elite 5s tournament rewrote the script on what British American football could look like on a single day. Now it's time to do it again, bigger, louder, and with even more on the line. Elite 5s: NextGen  lands at Surrey Sports Park on April 18th , bringing 144 of the best university-age players together across 8 teams in a pro bowl format. That's 13 games of full-contact, 5-a-side football packed into one day, and a £3,500 Moneyball prize pot  waiting at the end of it. The Schedule The action runs all day with back-to-back games from late morning through to a primetime final under the lights: 11:30  — Game 1 & 2 12:30  — Game 3 & 4 13:45  — Game 5 & 6 14:45  — Game 7 & 8 16:00  — Game 9 & 10 17:00  — Game 11 & 12 18:00  — The Final With food on site, proper bleacher seating, a fully stocked bar, and a DJ keeping the energy high all day, this is as close to a proper gameday atmosphere as you'll find in UK football. Get your tickets here How We Got Here Elite 5s is the brainchild of three Britballers who first crossed paths at U19s regionals whilst coaching for the Southern Kings team: Jord Metcalf (London Warriors), Josh Proud (Thinking Football YouTube + London Warriors), and Will Sparke (Hertfordshire Cheetahs). Their mission? To get the best athletes available on field to duke it out for the grand prize. By reimagining the traditional 11-a-side game and taking cues from the lesser-known U16s 5v5 format in the UK, Elite 5s has injected a fresh wave of excitement into the British American football scene, and tournament 1 proved the concept works. Reaching out to Jord Metcalf for comment on why this event and format, he had the following to say: "There's a lot of reasons we've decided to pursue this. From my own experience since starting with this sport in 2013 I've seen more blowouts than I care to recall, I've seen excellent players never have a shot at glory due to their distance from whichever "super team" is the clear-cut winner that season and I've seen a heap of the best players never step outside BUCS, the NFL Academy or spend their entire time in Europe before hanging it up. Having been a part of the national program and spent time coaching the U19 regionals, I've seen pockets of talent in some of the places you'd least expect and, in this format, where we've removed any affiliation to existing BAFA senior sides and ensured anyone can be registered and insured to a brand new team for a single day, I think we've removed the barriers to enable some really competitive football. I'm not counting my chickens yet, but it looks like we're going to see some really fun matchups between BUCS scholars, EU imports and BAFA Seniors finest as well as some awesome hybrid teams of old teammates who get a chance to play together again." What is 5v5: Redefining the Game If you caught tournament 1, you already know how electric this format is. If you didn't, here's what to expect. The 5v5 American football format is a condensed, high-octane version of the sport, designed to prioritise speed, strategy, and accessibility. Inspired by small-sided formats like Flag and Arena Football, the rules keep games fast, competitive, and fan-friendly. Here's how it works and why it's different: Bigger Plays, Bigger Scores E5 is five-a-side football, but forget the strictly defined positions you're used to. The biggest change? Every offensive lineman is an eligible receiver, including the centre. A big man rumbling downfield with the ball isn't a fluke, it's a core part of a dynamic, well-run offence. Fast-Paced is an Understatement Games feature two 15-minute halves with a running clock (stopping only in the final two minutes of each half). The field? A compact 60 yards by 35 yards. Teams start on their own 5-yard line, with 4 downs to reach midfield and another 4 downs to score. Win with Your Arm Quarterbacks aren't allowed to cross the line of scrimmage unless they've handed the ball off. Expect wild scrambles, quick decisions, and big-time throws. This format forces QBs to win the game through the air. No Special Teams It's exactly what it sounds like, no kicks, no punts, no returns. Turn the ball over via a pick or fumble? The other team starts from where the play ended. Turn it over on downs? They take over at their own 5-yard line. Run the Ball, Until You Can't 5-a-side football comes with quirks, like the No Run Zone. Once you're within 5 yards of the endzone, it's passing plays only. Managing your drives with that in mind? That's where coaching and strategy come into play. Expect Touchdowns... Lots of Them Scoring follows standard rules, 6 points for a touchdown. But after that, you've got options: Go for 1 point from the 5-yard line (edge of the No Run Zone) Go for 2 points from the 10-yard line Flexibility is King (or Queen) With rosters capped at 18 players , squad-building becomes tactical. Stack your team with speed? Bulk up with power? Find hybrids who can do it all? The choice is yours. Elite 5s follows BAFA's Open Championship model, ensuring there's a role for everyone. Get Your Tickets Tournament 2 is shaping up to be something special. Whether you're a player, a scout, or just a fan of hard-hitting football, Surrey Sports Park on April 18th is the place to be. Grab your tickets here

With the regular season entering its decisive stretch, Weeks 11 and 12 brought exactly the kind of football the LPFA needed: physical battles, a statement win from the league leaders, and a crucial result in the race for the final playoff spot. As the postseason picture starts to take shape, every game now carries extra weight — and this past stretch made that clearer than ever. Cascais Crusaders 21 – 14 Braga Warriors One of the most competitive games of the season saw the Cascais Crusaders once again prove why they are among the most consistent teams in the league — but not without a fight. The Braga Warriors  came out strong and controlled large portions of the game, imposing their physical style and dictating the tempo early on. However, a recurring issue throughout their season resurfaced: the inability to maintain a lead. Despite being on top for much of the matchup, the Warriors could not close it out. The Crusaders , on the other hand, stayed true to their identity. Even against such a physical opponent, they leaned heavily on their ground game and gradually took control. Salvador Bolzoni  was the standout performer, delivering a dominant display on the ground that powered the comeback. In the end, it was another composed and mature win for Cascais , while Braga  is left wondering how a game they largely controlled slipped away once again. Lisboa Devils 16 – 7 Lisboa Navigators If there were any doubts about who the true contenders are this season, this game answered quite a few. In an extremely physical matchup, decided in the trenches, the Lisboa Devils  and Lisboa Navigators delivered what felt like a playoff — or even championship-level — game. Both teams leaned heavily on the running game, turning the contest into a battle of endurance and physicality. The Navigators , despite having a very mobile quarterback, were unable to establish their passing game, becoming one-dimensional offensively. It was also a game marked by a high number of penalties, with officiating playing a significant role throughout the matchup — at times perhaps even too much, breaking the rhythm of what was otherwise a highly competitive contest. The Devils  did not necessarily dominate offensively, but they were more efficient in key moments. They controlled the tempo, capitalized on opportunities, and most importantly, won the physical battle. The result means the Devils  remain unbeaten, while the Navigators  suffer their first loss of the season. Even so, this felt less like a setback and more like a preview of what could still come later in the year. Lisboa Bulldogs 18 – 8 Salgueiros Renegades In Week 12, the Lisboa Bulldogs took a crucial step in the playoff race with a solid win over the Salgueiros Renegades. It was a game defined by the Bulldogs’  defensive performance, as they successfully limited a Renegades  offense that continues to search for consistency. While not the most explosive matchup, it was a controlled and disciplined performance from the Bulldogs , doing exactly what was needed to secure the win. More importantly, this result puts the Bulldogs  level with the Warriors  in the standings — setting up a decisive clash next week with a playoff spot on the line. What’s Next? With the regular season nearing its end, next week promises to be one of the most decisive of the year. Devils  vs Crusaders:  The Devils  will look to finish the regular season undefeated, but face one of their toughest challenges yet. The Crusaders  will be eager to prove they can take down the league leaders and solidify their contender status. Warriors  vs Bulldogs:  A playoff game before the playoffs. With both teams tied, this head-to-head matchup will determine who claims the final postseason spot. Everything is on the line. Mutts  vs Navigators:  With their playoff position essentially secured, the Navigators  may use this game to rotate players, test new schemes, or rest key contributors. Still, it will be an important opportunity to fine-tune ahead of the postseason.

This is the most competitive season the LNFA has seen in decades, marked by the first loss of Las Rozas Black Demons in 2 years, who has recently fell against the Osos de Rivas. Osos WR Michiah Quick making a TD catch against Las Rozas Black Demons in Week 8 / @roberbhfoto on Instagram After 9 weeks and 35 games played , we are in the midst of the LNFA season. With only one regular season week left , it’s safe to say that, at least this year, the Spanish league has turned into one of the most entertaining competitions in Europe . I'm aware that a statement of that caliber is no joke, but what’s happening is truly outstanding.  Two unbeaten teams lost recently . On one hand, the Terrassa Reds  against the Badalona Dracs  (35-21). The Reds are still atop the East and looking for the championship.  And on the other hand, and much more impressive, is the defeat of the three-time reigning champions, Las Rozas Black Demons , who fell 14–12 against the Osos de Rivas  at home in an absolute nail-biter, doinking a game-winning field goal on the final play . It’s even more impressive considering that the QB who led Osos to victory was Álvaro Cánovas , a former Murcia Cobras player who stepped in mid-season and is his first season ever playing 11v11. He had to do so after American QB Anthony Aronou  left the team.  Still, their standout performer has been American ATH Michiah Quick , a former Oklahoma Sooner and European veteran, who has been key on both sides of the ball , including scoring the opening TD against the Demons. The game itself was an intense defensive battle . The Demons scored both of their touchdowns through the air, with national QB Diego Lliteras  connecting with WRs Jesús Pérez  and Jorge García Valcárcel . However, the difference came from a dominant Osos defense, which allowed zero points in the second half . A Missed Field Goal Ends a Historic Streak Exact moment of the missed game-winning FG of Las Rozas in Rivas / @ososrivas on Instagram In a dramatic finish, Osos de Rivas snapped one of the greatest winning streaks in LNFA history . The missed field goal ended Black Demons’ 18-game winning run  in Serie A (including playoffs), now the third-longest streak ever . Despite this, the Badalona Dracs  continue to hold the top two streaks in LNFA history , with 31 consecutive wins between 2017 and 2021 , and another run of 24 victories from 2002 to 2004 . Looking further back, the longest winning streak in Spanish American football predates the creation of the LNFA itself . The now-defunct Barcelona Boxers  hold the all-time record, having amassed an extraordinary 34 consecutive wins in the pre-LNFA era. The Season of Parity This game perfectly represents the competitive chaos of this LNFA season . Osos, who had previously lost 21–6 to the Zaragoza Hurricanes , turned around and defeated the top team in the league. The same pattern can be seen in the East. Mallorca Voltors , for example, secured their first win of the season ( 27–13 ) against Valencia Firebats , a historic club that had started strong with a 3–1 record . But their most impressive performance came earlier. In Week 6, while sitting at the bottom of the standings, Mallorca faced Badalona Dracs  and managed a 20–20 draw , a result that felt anything but accidental. In fact, it echoed last season’s shock, when Voltors defeated Dracs 24–22 at home. At this point, it’s becoming a pattern, not a coincidence. Mallorca Voltors QB Malik Brown throwing a pass against the Badalona Dracs in Week 6 / @oscarquetglasphoto on Instagram And just like that, with their Week 9 win against the L’Hospitalet Pioners (34-24) in an exciting matchups, the Mallorca Voltors have avoided relegation , and will head into the offseason as they don’t have no game scheduled for Week 10. This team embodies the parity of the LNFA this year . And it shows the tremendous growth the balear team has experienced during the season with key performers all year in the American connection of QB Malik Brown  and WR Austin Brock , who made himself a strong case for best receiver in Spain . Numbers Don’t Lie The data backs it up. Out of 35 games played , 26 have been decided by 15 points or fewer , meaning 74.3% of matchups  have been close contests. That’s roughly almost 3 out of every 4 games  are often decided deep into the fourth quarter. Men lie, women lie, numbers don’t.  The LNFA is becoming a league where competitive balance is the norm , the gap between teams is shrinking, and nearly every game feels alive until the end. An Open Race for the Championship  With the recent and deeply tragic passing of Madrid Bravos , every player from that roster now in the domestic league plays with an extra chip on their shoulder, motivation and emotional weight . Every team has something to prove, and the fight for the Spanish Bowl  is wide open. Las Rozas Black Demons raised the Spanish Bowl trophy in 2025 / Joan Sancho (@fotoartestudi on Instagram) It's important to note that the playoffs in Spain are just the Semifinal and Final, composed by the two best teams from each conference.  After Week 9, the playoff picture is the following:  #1 Las Rozas Black Demons and #2 Osos de Rivas in the West. And the Terrassa Reds and Badalona Dracs in the East, Who are still battling out the for the #1 seed.  At the same time, the relegation battle is just as intense, with up to three teams sitting on just 1 win . More importantly, next week the Camioneros de Coslada (1-5-1) and the Gijón Mariners (1-5-1) will face off in the last game of the season for them . It will be an absolute final  for both if they want to stay in the premiere football division  of the Mediterranean country. With only Week 10 remaining, here are the current standings: Eastern Conference (W-L-D) Terrassa Reds ( 5–1 ) Badalona Dracs ( 5–1–1 ) Valencia Firebats ( 3–3 ) Mallorca Voltors ( 2–5-1 ) L’Hospitalet Pioners ( 1–6 ) Western Conference (W-L-D) Las Rozas Black Demons ( 6–1 ) Osos de Rivas ( 5–2–1 ) Zaragoza Hurricanes ( 3–3–1 ) Camioneros de Coslada ( 1–5–1 ) Gijón Mariners ( 1–5–1 )

As always, a reminder before we get into it: this is subjective. These rankings are based on results, game flow, momentum, level of opposition, and the overall impression each team left this weekend. They are not the standings, and they are not meant to be taken personally. The goal is simple: place teams where they feel right now, after comparing what we thought we knew at the halfway point with what Week 6 confirmed, corrected, or reshaped. And this week gave us clarity. At the top, the Black Panthers and Iron Mask didn’t just win again, they dominated in a way that keeps widening the gap with the rest of the league. The Flash , on the other hand, might have found their offensive answer and finally delivered the kind of complete performance we had been waiting for. Marseille keeps building quietly but effectively, proving they can win in multiple ways, while the Molosses took a major step forward by showing their game travels. Perpignan answered after two shaky weeks, while Aix came back down to earth just as quickly as they had risen. And in the lower half, the trends are getting harder to ignore. Toulouse keeps competing without finishing, Rouen and Grenoble continue to struggle against top opposition, and Villepinte is still searching for a way to stay in games over four quarters. Here’s where things stand after Week 6: 1. Black Panthers - Thonon-les-Bains At this point, they’re not just holding the top spot, they’re owning it. What stood out again this week wasn’t just the 47-0 scoreline, it was how inevitable it felt. From the opening drives, you could already see the script: control the ground game, suffocate defensively, and slowly break the opponent’s resistance. And it happens every single week. What’s even more impressive is the defensive consistency: four straight games allowing 7 points or fewer. That’s not form, that’s identity. Right now, they are setting the standard for what dominance looks like in this league. 2. Iron Mask - Cannes There’s something almost clinical about what Cannes are doing right now. Same opponent, same result, same domination: 49-0 again. And the key word here is control . They don’t just win big, they remove all uncertainty from the game almost immediately. The offense keeps producing through multiple options, the quarterback-receiver connection looks sharper every week, and the defense keeps feeding them short fields. Most importantly, there is zero drop in intensity from week to week. They’re not chasing statements anymore, they’re building a pattern of superiority. 3. Flash - La Courneuve This might be the turning point of their season. For weeks, the question wasn’t about their defense, it was about whether the offense could catch up. This week, it finally did. The arrival of Jaylen Tregle clearly changed the dynamic, but beyond the numbers, it was the rhythm that stood out. The Flash looked more fluid, more confident, and far less predictable. Combine that with a defense that was already one of the best in the league, and suddenly this team feels complete again. For the first time this year, they look like a team that can genuinely challenge the top two. 4. Blue Stars - Marseille They’re not moving, but they’re quietly reinforcing their position. What I liked this week is that they didn’t rely on the exact same script as last time against Toulouse . After a defensive 7-0 win, they came out more aggressive offensively, built an early lead, and then managed the pressure when Toulouse pushed back. Hadrien Lynda set the tone, and once again, the defense closed the door when it mattered most. This team is learning how to win in different ways, and that versatility is becoming one of their biggest strengths. 5. Molosses - Asnières-sur-Seine This is a significant step forward. The result itself wasn’t surprising, but the context makes it important: first road win of the season, and it came with authority. What stands out is how clearly they imposed their identity early. The run game is no longer just effective — it’s becoming the backbone of everything they do, and it’s starting to travel. That’s crucial at this stage of the season. They’ve now won three of their last four, and the trajectory is obvious. This feels like a team that is growing into a real playoff threat. 6. Grizzlys - Perpignan That’s the response they needed. After two frustrating losses where they let control slip away, this was a much more complete performance. Yes, they started well again, but this time, they didn’t collapse in the second half. Even without their starting quarterback, they stayed disciplined, efficient, and in control for four quarters. That says a lot about the character of this team. It doesn’t erase the concerns from previous weeks entirely, but it does restore some confidence. The ceiling is still there, now the challenge is consistency. 7. Météores - Fontenay-sous-Bois They take a hit this week, and it feels justified. After a strong defensive showing against the Flash in Week 5, they couldn’t replicate that same level once La Courneuve found offensive rhythm. What’s concerning isn’t just the loss, but the gap that appeared once the Flash settled into the game. They’ve been one of the most solid teams structurally this season, but this looked like a step behind. They’re still firmly in the playoff mix, but this is the kind of result that forces you to reassess where their true ceiling is. 8. Argonautes - Aix-en-Provence Momentum stopped, and quite abruptly. After back-to-back wins that suggested they were turning a corner, this performance felt flat. They never really found solutions offensively and struggled to adjust once Perpignan took control. This is the kind of game that reminds you how fragile momentum can be. They’re still competitive, still capable of beating teams around them, but this week showed that they’re not quite ready to sustain that level over time. Now the focus shifts to how they bounce back. 9. Ours - Toulouse It’s becoming a pattern, and not a good one. They stay competitive, they stay within reach, but they don’t close. Once again, the defense gave them a chance, and once again, the offense couldn’t do enough to capitalize. There are flashes, there are moments, but not enough sustained production to turn games in their favor. At this stage of the season, that’s the difference between being in the playoff race and being stuck in the lower half. Right now, Toulouse feel stuck. 10. Léopards - Rouen Another week, another game where the gap with elite teams is clearly visible. Facing Thonon is one of the toughest challenges in the league, but what matters is how long you can stay in the fight, and Rouen struggled to do that. There are still isolated positives, but they’re too brief and too scattered. Over four quarters, the consistency just isn’t there, especially offensively. At this point, it’s less about competing in moments and more about finding a way to stay structured from start to finish. 11. Centaures - Grenoble This is a tough stretch, and it’s getting tougher. Back-to-back 49-0 losses against the same opponent highlight just how big the gap currently is. Injuries are clearly playing a role, but beyond that, the team looks overwhelmed in key phases of the game. There were earlier signs this season that they could hang around and make games uncomfortable, that wasn’t the case here. Right now, they’re searching for answers, and they need to find them quickly to avoid the season slipping away completely. 12. Diables Rouges - Villepinte They remain at the bottom, and unfortunately, the story doesn’t change much. Like last week, there were brief moments where they showed they could respond, but those moments disappear too quickly. Once the opponent settles, Villepinte struggles to keep up, both physically and structurally. The challenge now is not just about winning, but about staying competitive deeper into games. Until that happens, it’s hard to justify moving them up.

British American Football is entering a transformative era. With one professional franchise slated for 2026 and another for 2027, the UK is seeing a level of ambition not witnessed since the late 1990s. However, this growth is contrasted by a massive void: the London Warriors , multi-time national champions and the titans of the domestic game, will not compete this year. Their absence reshapes the Premiership . Every team now sees a path to the throne, though the lack of a "Warriors Challenge" arguably robs the regular season of some of its traditional intrigue. As we look toward the quest for the BritBowl title, here is how the landscape shakes out. The Frontrunners: Premiership South Bristol Aztecs: The reigning BritBowl champions are the clear favorites to become the UK’s premier organization. They are professionalizing rapidly, both on and off the field. European Ambition : Last year in the CEFL , they dominated the Amsterdam Crusaders before falling in a tight second-round matchup in Karlstad. The Outlook : They open their international campaign against the Belfast Trojans with immense confidence. Domestically, the Aztecs have one major monkey to remove from their back: winning the Premiership South . Surprisingly, they have never won the Premiership South. If they aren't lifting the trophy in September, the season is a failure. The sheer amount of American and Pro-Level European Talent should ultimately be enough for an undefeated season and a second Britbowl trophy on the bounce. Their goal to "Professionalise" the sport is admirable, I believe it will guide the Aztecs into becoming the “UK’s Team” wherever they may end up in the seasons after this one. London Blitz: Despite missing the playoffs last year, the Blitz are the biggest beneficiaries of the Warriors ' absence. Youth Movement : With an average player age of 22, this is a team built for the long haul. The Challenge : They beat Bristol in the regular season last year, proving they have the ceiling to compete. Their season opener on April 19th against the Aztecs is the most anticipated game of the year. If they can overcome Bristol ’s "pro-level" imports, the city of London is theirs for the taking. The Contenders: Premiership North Manchester Titans: The two-time champions are the undisputed kings of the North , but they have a massive hurdle to clear. The QB Situation: Star quarterback Charlie Martin is expected to miss most of the season following an injury in the University league. Without him, it’s hard to see them overcoming Bristol in a potential playoff rematch. The Goal: Expect them to retain the Northern Premiership title, although their roster features some of the best of British talent, I can’t see them overcoming the Aztecs recruitment of talent from both America and the UK. Coventry Phoenix: A well-run organization playing out of the impressive Butts Park Arena . They are on the cusp of elite status but haven't quite matched the "firepower" of the Southern giants. Player to Watch: The development of young QB George Hatfield is vital. He has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency in high-pressure games. East Kilbride Pirates: Scotland’s lone Premiership representative remains a "hard-nosed" squad that can beat anyone on their day. While they have the highest "surprise potential" for 2026, I just cannot see the Pirates taking the Prem North or competing for a Britbowl Title , at least for this season. The Mid-Table & Developmental Tier Nottingham Caesars: The Caesars are focused on growth. While they likely won't have the muscle to dethrone Manchester this year, their mid-season friendly against Bristol shows an admirable desire to test themselves against the best. 2027 is the year to watch them. Wembley Stallions: Coming off a Division 1 championship, the Stallions have the infrastructure and talent (partially thanks to their links with the Brunel Burners ) to survive. A "London Derby" against the Blitz will be their litmus test. Cambridgeshire Cats: Moving to a new home field has provided a spark of momentum. While they aren't playoff contenders yet, they seem to have more "juice" than the teams at the very bottom of the table. The Danger Zone: Relegation Risks Rushmoor Knights: After losing key players to other rosters and suffering a loss to the D1 Solent Thrashers in the Hampshire Rose Bowl , the Knights are in trouble. They must find wins against the Stallions or Cats to avoid the drop. Merseyside Nighthawks: Transitioning back to the Premiership is always difficult. Despite a strong social media presence and a win in the Northern D1 final, they remain an unknown quantity that may struggle with the jump in speed and physicality at the top level. The Verdict: The road to the BritBowl runs through Bristol . With the Warriors no longer in the league, the Aztecs have the target on their backs, and the Manchester Titans and London Blitz are the only ones with a realistic shot at taking it, but I expect a perfect season from the Aztecs . The big game that is likely to happen this year is a first time matchup between the London Blitz and the Manchester Titans come the semi-finals, I am willing that game to take place.

1. Warsaw Eagles (2–0) Last game: W 24–7 Lowlanders The Eagles remain at the top of the rankings after improving to 2–0. They have shown consistency on both sides of the ball and continue to look like the most complete team in the league. Looking ahead, if they maintain this level of defense and efficiency on offense, they should remain the team to beat. The real test will come against other top contenders. 2. Wilki Łódzkie (2–0) Last game: W vs Dukes 50–20 The Wilki move up to #2 after a dominant 50–20 win. While the opponent may not have been the strongest, their offensive performance was impressive and shows their potential this season. If they can keep this momentum against stronger opponents, they could realistically challenge for the #1 spot in the coming weeks. 3. Olsztyn Lakers (1–0) Last game: W vs Wataha 34–0 The Lakers drop one spot despite a dominant performance in their only game so far. They still look like one of the strongest teams, but need to play more games to stay at the top. Their upcoming matchups will show whether they truly belong among the top two. 4. Warsaw Mets (1–0) Last game: W vs Jaguars 28–6 The Mets remain solid after a convincing win. They showed good balance, but will face tougher challenges in the coming weeks. If they continue to execute well on both sides of the ball, they should stay in the top tier. 5. Silesia Rebels Katowice (1–0) Last game: W vs Kings 29–13 The Rebels stay consistent with a strong win. Their overall performance was solid, especially on defense. That defensive strength could be key in upcoming games against higher-ranked opponents. 6. Kraków Kings (0–1) Last game: L vs Rebels 13–29 Despite the loss, the Kings showed some competitiveness and remain the highest-ranked team without a win. If they can clean up mistakes, they have a chance to move up—especially against teams from the lower half. 7. Lowlanders Białystok (0–1) Last game: L vs Eagles 7-24 The Lowlanders struggled to keep up but showed flashes of potential during the game. Their next games will be important to properly evaluate their level against mid-tier teams. 8. Tytani Lublin (0–1) Last game: L 20–40 Wilki The Tytani had a tough game and will need to improve on both sides of the ball. Defensively, allowing 40 points is a concern—this will need to improve quickly. 9. Jaguars Kąty Wrocławskie (0–1) Last game: L vs Mets 6–28 The Jaguars had difficulties offensively and will look to bounce back next week. Improvement on offense will be key if they want to compete in upcoming matchups. 10. Armia Poznań (0–0) Armia Poznań sits at #10 despite not playing a game yet this season. With no on-field performance to evaluate, they remain a question mark. Their debut will be crucial in determining where they truly belong in the rankings. 11. Wrocław Panthers (0–1) Last game: L vs Eagles 0–28 The Panthers struggled heavily in their opener and will need a much better performance going forward. The next games will show whether they can bounce back or remain near the bottom. 12. Dukes Ząbki (0–1) Last game: L vs Wilki 20–50 The Dukes allowed a high number of points in their first game and will need major improvements, especially on defense. Without quick adjustments, they may continue to struggle against stronger teams. 13. Wataha Zielona Góra (0–1) Last game: L 0–34 Lakers Wataha had the toughest loss of the week and currently sits at the bottom of the rankings.  The priority now will be improving execution and becoming more competitive in the coming weeks.

The 2026 season of the Hungarian Football League officially got underway with two games that highlighted both dominance and resilience. While only four teams took the field, the action didn’t disappoint, as the Újpest Bulldogs and the Budapest Wolves opened their campaigns with victories. It’s also worth noting that this was a shortened opening round, as the Győr Sharks and the Budapest Cowbells did not play this weekend, meaning all eyes were on these two teams. 1. Újpest Bulldogs (1-0) The clear number one after Week 1. A dominant 52–22 win and a complete performance on all sides of the ball. With Lóránt Emhő leading a high-powered offense and a defense forcing multiple turnovers, the Bulldogs look like the team to beat right now. QB Lóránt Emhő  was the clear difference-maker, putting together an outstanding performance with six total touchdowns  (3 passing, 3 rushing). His ability to extend plays with his legs while also delivering accurate passes made him nearly impossible to stop.  He was supported by a dangerous receiving unit. Bradley Schlom, András Schrieber, and Álmos Könyves  each found the end zone, showing the depth and versatility of the Bulldogs ’ passing attack.  On the ground, Owen Van Gorcum  played a crucial role in maintaining balance. With over 100 rushing yards and a TD , he consistently gained positive yardage, controlled the tempo, and wore down the Titans’ defensive front. Special teams also played a key part in the Bulldogs’ dominance. K   Barnabás Miskolczi  was perfect on the day, converting all 7 extra points  and adding a field goal. His consistency ensured that every scoring opportunity was maximized. Defensively, the Bulldogs were just as impactful. They forced multiple turnovers that shifted momentum completely in their favor. Albert Daego  recorded his first interception of the season and added a forced fumble, setting the tone early. LB   Olivér Pethe  joined in with another interception, while defensive backs Rabi Bunga  and Patrik Polgár  added their own picks, with Polgár closing out the game. (📸: @revelinphotos on Instagram) 2. Budapest Wolves (1-0) A strong and disciplined team that got the job done in a tougher matchup. They showed experience and composure, and with reliable special teams (especially clutch field goals), they proved they can win close games. QB Levente Tóth , making his return from injury, brought stability to the offense. His connection with WR   Máté Pfisztner  resulted in the team’s first touchdown of the season and helped establish early momentum. As the game progressed, the Wolves leaned on their ability to execute in crucial situations. RB   Domonkos Majer  provided an important spark in the second half, fighting his way into the end zone and giving his team breathing room. Later, WR   Iván Róna  added another touchdown, extending the lead and putting pressure on the Dragons to respond. One of the most decisive factors in the game was the performance of K/DB   Kristóf Szakács . His three field goals  proved to be extremely valuable in a close contest, consistently adding points and preventing the Dragons from closing the gap. In a game where every possession mattered, his reliability made a significant difference. In the end, while the Dragons showed promise and resilience, the Wolves ’ efficiency and experience allowed them to close out the game and start their season with a win. (📸: Tóth Zsófi) 3. Budapest Cowbells (0-0) Even without playing yet, the Cowbells earned the third spot. They’ve consistently been one of the strongest teams in the league, regularly making the playoffs and competing at a high level. Until proven otherwise, they remain a powerhouse. (📸: @millerphotostudio on Instagram) 4. Budapest Titans (0-1)   Despite the loss, the Titans showed potential. They had moments where they kept up early and made plays offensively. If they clean up mistakes and improve defensively, they can still compete with the top teams. They manage to stay in the game and even match the Bulldogs for stretches in the first half. QB   Johnathan Bennett  led by example, scoring twice on the ground and trying to keep his team within reach. WR Myles McKatherine  also contributed with a touchdown and a two point conversion, while RB   Előd Ambrus  fought for tough yards and showed flashes of explosiveness. On the defensive side, LB Horváth Kristóf  played a crucial role, making multiple tackles and helping to slow down the Bulldogs ’ momentum. DB   Horváth Benedek  also contributed with solid coverage throughout the game. Despite the opening loss, the Budapest Titans are far from out of the race. This is just the beginning of the season, and they have every opportunity to improve and climb the standings. With each game, the Titans gain experience, adjust their strategies, and learn from mistakes. Fans can expect a stronger, sharper team in the coming weeks as they fight for their first win. (📸: @revelinphotos on Instagram) 5. Győr Sharks (0-0)   They're a team to watch. They didn’t play this week, but last season’s 6–0 regular season record shows their potential. They could come out strong this year, so keeping them in the top 5 is justified… for now. (📸:  @csigai_sportphotography on Instagram) 6. Belgrade Blue Dragons (0-1) They sit at the bottom after Week 1, but not without promise. They showed flashes, big plays, and versatility. With more experience in the league, they could quickly become a dangerous opponent. QB   Michael Cornwell  was at the center of everything for Belgrade . He showed his versatility by contributing in multiple phases. Throwing a touchdown pass to WR   Elijah Smooth,  running in a score himself, and even returning a kick for a touchdown. His all-around performance kept the Dragons within striking distance for most of the game. Another standout for the Dragons was  DB/RB   Varsey Bright , who made his presence felt on defense with strong tackling and physical play, helping slow down the Wolves ’ offense at key moments. Even after their first setback, the Belgrade Blue Dragons are still very much in the hunt. The season is long, and the Dragons have plenty of time to regroup and show their potential. With every game comes growth, adjustments, and the chance to fix early mistakes. They’ll be studying film, refining their plays, and coming back more determined to secure their first victory. (📸: @ adrikerti.photography  on Instagram) A Promising Start Even with only two games played, the opening weekend of the HFL provided a clear glimpse into the league’s competitive landscape. The Újpest Bulldogs showcased explosive, high-powered football, while the Budapest Wolves demonstrated discipline and the ability to win tough games. Looking ahead, the next round of the Hungarian Football League continues soon. On April 11 (4.11) , the Győr Sharks will face the Budapest Wolves , followed by an exciting matchup on April 12 (4.12)  between the Újpest Bulldogs and the Belgrade Blue Dragons . Meanwhile, the Budapest Cowbells will finally make their season debut on April 18 (4.18) , when they take on the Budapest Titans . The season is just getting started and the battle is far from over.

The preseason must have been harsh, because this week ended with a lot of upsets and not a single expected win. The Ducks beat the ex-ELF Enthroners , the Prague Black Panthers won against the Graz Giants and the Danube Dragons defeated their lifelong rivals, the Vienna Vikings . SALZBURG DUCKS VS. FEHERVAR ENTHRONERS (16:3) I can only imagine what the Ducks had to go through in the preseason to get such an amazing win in the first week. The most disappointing team in the league last year (only one win that was deemed illegitimate during the preseason) beat a team that’s fresh out of the ELF with a margin of 13 points. We all know that the Fehervar Enthroners are bad, but they were still ELF material, so in my eyes, the Ducks should be very proud of themselves. I just hope they carry that energy throughout the season. PRAGUE BLACK PANTHERS VS. GRAZ GIANTS (24:21) The Graz Giants are historically one of the most impressive teams in the Austrian League, but it seems like the glory days are over. To be fair, it was a close loss, but still embarrassing for Giant standards. I mean, they were the one team that was able to leave the Vikings shaking in their helmets, but now its time for a change of scenery. The Black Panthers showed up and followed through on offence, defence AND Special Teams. Let’s see how that will hold up in two weeks against the Enthroners . DANUBE DRAGONS VS. VIENNA VIKINGS (35:14) The Dragons must be high on life right now. Due to a technicality, their loss didn‘t count in the final and now they showed that they can also win on the field, not just off of it. As a former Viking , I can’t even begin to imagine what they must be going through right now. What I can imagine though, is the drills they will be running until the next game. The Ravelin will once again become a place of pain and agony. I wish the Dragons good luck against the Tirol Raiders and hope that the Vienna Vikings can show what they’re made of once again.

With the Easter holidays already upon us, the IFL is taking a general Bye Week before resuming full steam ahead until the end of May with the Regular Season. In this special edition of the Power Ranking , in addition to the usual commentary on the league games—only one this weekend—there's also a rating for the teams based on their performances this season. 1. Guelfi Firenze (A) There's no getting around it. Guelfi Firenze 's season start, undefeated in 14 consecutive games between IFL 2025 and IFL 2026, confirms them as the league's best team. Despite the hard-fought victory against Giaguari Torino , where they struggled in the first half before running away, their performance at home against Rhinos Milano once again demonstrated that Coach Bocci 's team still has a lot to offer. After all, a winning team doesn't change; on the contrary, it renews itself. There have been few new additions to the Viola roster, fresh off last year's victory in Toledo and a shared third-place finish that will soon be revoked due to other circumstances. The next game, scheduled for Week 6 against the Parma Panthers , a now-classic Italian football matchup, will be the first real head-to-head matchup of the season. 2. Parma Panthers (A-) The Panthers ' 2026 campaign began with three wins in as many games. They're top of the league, yes, but with three performances that ended well, but with difficulty. Against the Rhinos Milano , the victory came after four overtime periods and with 56 points conceded. Against the Lazio Marines , their first and so far only home game, was a game of two halves, with the offense dominating in the first half and the defense taking center stage in the second. Meanwhile, the game against the Ancona Dolphins was decided by a remarkable effort from the Special Teams, which was able to block the decisive field goal. It's well known that Brian Michitti 's team's goal is to reach the final in Ferrara , not just watch it from the stands, to continue their dynasty. As previously mentioned, the away match against the Guelfi will be a crucial turning point for their fortunes, as the first step will be to finish the regular season in the top two. 3. Giaguari Torino (A-) This start to the season has been a major surprise for Giaguari Torino , who enter the Easter break in second place in the standings. Despite a disappointing first game against Guelfi , where they fell far short of their first-half performance, two clean sheets against Bologna and Ancona , and a home win against Ferrara , their first real head-to-head matchup of the season, have propelled the Piedmontese team into the league's top. The decision to start with an Italian quarterback, Riccardo Duranti , a rare find in a league that favors import players on that end of the field, is paying off, and Ethan Greenfield 's 10 touchdowns in four games are a huge boost for the yellow-and-black offense, as is the defense, which is among the best in this tournament so far. After the break, the Black and Yellow Brigade will take the field again against the Rhinos , a team that, if on form, can prove dangerous despite their terrible record. 4. Frogs Legnano (B) It was supposed to be a new year for the Frogs after the significant absences in the offseason, but the Lombardy team started the season on the right foot. Second in the league with just two games played and sharing the record with Guelfi , Legnano performed strongly against Warriors Bologna and Lazio Marines , but they will have a challenging schedule upon returning from the break. In fact, the team coached by Cody Kent will face four consecutive games ( Aquile Ferrara , Rhinos Milano , Dolphins Ancona , and Giaguari Torino ) before another Bye Week and two super matches against Guelfi and Panthers that will largely decide the season. Until then, well done. The Frogs can still do damage and aim for a postseason that, more than ever this year, could be balanced. 5. Aquile Ferrara (C) The loss in Turin , partly due to poor management in the final minutes of the game, has slightly lowered the Estense team's odds. After a strong start to the season, thanks to victories against Lazio Marines and Warriors Bologna , the Emilian team, a major disappointment last season, has shown that it can give those likely to qualify for the Wild Card Round a run for their money, thanks in part to a defense that shone, especially in the derby against Bologna . The match against Giaguari Torino , the only one scheduled for Week 5, exposed some of the Estense team's weaknesses, and they now face an equally challenging match against the Legnano Frogs . After finishing 4-6 last year, only to be eliminated from the playoffs on the final day, can they return to the top? 6. Lazio Marines (C-) The potential is there, as we saw in the three losses, but they lack energy when it matters. The Lazio Marines seen in the first three games are intelligent, but they don't apply themselves. The team coached by Cooper Heisey , in his first full year in the IFL as head coach, made the Panthers , the Aquile , and the Frogs suffer, but still failed to be effective when it matters. Another important away game for the Biancocelesti will be in Ancona , immediately after Easter, and there the season's fortunes could change. 7. Dolphins Ancona (D) The negative surprise of the 2026 IFL comes from last year's finalists, the Dolphins Ancona , still unable to win this season. The team from the Marche region, a major surprise last season thanks to their advance to the Toledo final, their second in the history of the Italian championship and the fifth in their more than forty-year history, is still stuck in the doldrums after losing against Turin and Parma . While they failed to score a single point in the first, they came close to triumphing in the second. The next two games against Lazio Marines and the Bologna Warriors , in addition to the subsequent matches against Legnano and Florence , will be crucial to see whether Rik Parker 's team has had early problems or whether it promises to be a season with few joys. 8. Rhinos Milano (D) When they're on form, look at the home game against Parma , they can be a serious threat, but when they're not, look at the away game against the Guelfi , they're an unrecognizable team. It's perhaps too early to make a definitive judgment on Luca Lorandi 's team, but the two games played so far have been a first glimpse of their form. If against the Panthers they gave the impression of truly returning after a few mediocre years, the match against Florence was a return to reality, as well as a cold, icy shower. The next match for Perrantes , Cotton & Co. will not be easy. In Turin , they will have to demonstrate their strengths against the second-placed Giaguari . 9. Warriors Bologna (F) The Warriors are in a constant rebuilding phase. The Emilian team disappointed in the first half of the season, and the first three games under Christian Nobile didn't get off to a good start. After two disappointing losses against Aquile Ferrara and Giaguari Torino , where the white-and-blues scored only two points and conceded sixty-one, they scored their first touchdowns of the season, but they didn't impact the final score against the Frogs Legnano . It's true, there are plenty of young players mixed in with highly experienced players, but this shouldn't be a lasting reminder for a team with a great tradition in our league. The Warriors are now in the midst of a month-long break, which will conclude on April 18th with a home game against the Dolphins Ancona , their first chance to escape last place.

Dresden Signings The Dresden Monarchs  of the German Football League  will be without star receiver Tyler Hudson  for part of the season while he plays in the United Football League  with the Louisville Kings . To fill the gap, Dresden signed receiver Montigo Moss  from the University of Maine . Moss totaled 61 receptions for 722 yards and seven touchdowns in his final season and is a deep-ball and red-zone threat who should immediately factor into their offensive game plan, especially in contested-catch situations and vertical concepts. Quarterback Rocky Lombardi  also joins the Dresden Monarchs , bringing experience from Michigan State University  and Northern Illinois University , along with time in professional camps. This gives Dresden a quarterback with both production and experience as they look to maintain offensive consistency. Berlin Enters  Coaching Change The Berlin Rebels  are making a change at head coach after parting ways with longtime head coach Douglas Fryer , a move that signals a significant shift for a program built around his leadership and identity in recent seasons. Stepping in is Lee Rowland , who will take on the dual role of head coach and offensive coordinator, putting him in a position to directly shape the team’s direction and offensive philosophy as they transition into this new era. On the roster side, Berlin has made strong additions, including Nate Stewart , who brings valuable German Football League  experience from previous stops with Potsdam Royals  and Allgäu Comets , along with CJ Okpalobi  from Braunschweig . With a mix of experienced talent and new leadership, the Berlin Rebels  look poised to remain competitive, with their success likely hinging on how quickly they adjust to the new system. Braunschweig Reshapes Roster with Import Changes The Lions are undergoing notable roster changes this offseason, reportedly parting ways with three of their four American imports (reported ny @foot.bowl). This signals a clear shift in direction as the team looks to retool heading into the new season that has been filled with changes. Quarterback Ryon Thomas  remains as the QB with the club, providing stability at the position and serving as a key piece to build around as the offense looks to find its new identity. To strengthen the defense, Braunschweig added Brandon Potts  from the Hamburg Pioneers  of the German Football League 2 , bringing in a player with European experience who should be able to adapt quickly. For a team entering a transitional phase, having players familiar with the style of play in Germany could be a key factor in how quickly they find cohesion. Potsdam Builds Around Proven Leader The Potsdam Royals  continue to emphasize continuity this offseason by retaining championship quarterback Xavier Bullock , who led the team to a German Bowl  title last season and remains one of the most important pieces of their success moving forward. Keeping Xavier Bullock  provides stability at the quarterback position and allows Potsdam to build confidently around a proven leader who already understands the system and has demonstrated the ability to win at a high level in the German Football League . In addition, the Potsdam Royals  added homegrown running back Chrisman Kyei  from the Hamburg Sea Devils , giving them another dynamic piece on offense. As Potsdam continues to shape its roster, the combination of continuity at quarterback and added local talent positions them well as they aim to remain at the top of the German Football League  heading into the start of the season in May.

For Keegan McCormack-Reamer , this next move is about more than football. It is about trust, opportunity, and the chance to write a new chapter in a place that already feels familiar. As he begins his journey in Germany , the quarterback speaks openly about resilience, growth, and the motivation that continues to push him forward. With long-term goals, high standards, and a championship in his sights, he is approaching this fresh start with both gratitude and determination. How would you describe this point in your career right now, and what made Germany the right destination for your next chapter? I would say this point of my career can be described as exciting. I have the opportunity to go be a part of an amazing club and win a championship in Germany with a long term contract. Germany has always treated me like one of their own, after talks with the GM and Head coach I knew this is where I needed to be. They have the right mindset, funds and tools to really create a bright future for the club After everything that happened this offseason, do you see this move as a fresh start or more as the next logical step in your journey? I would say a little bit of both but definitely a fresh start. Every player wants to be appreciated by their teams coaching staff and with this new tweak i have the opportunity to do this. After everything that happened this offseason, what is your mindset heading into this new team? The best way to describe my mindset is grateful and determined. Whenever God gives you an opportunity like this in a place that has shown so much love all you can do is be grateful and determined to show what you can do. What are you looking for most in this new experience, both on and off the field? I'm looking for the opportunity to compete, on the field I want to set the standard for the league and make sure my presence is felt early. Off the field I can't wait to be a part of the community and the city. What excites you most when you think about what’s ahead, and what personal goals have you set for yourself in this next chapter? I want another ring and that's what keeps me excited in the weight room and at practice. another 3k yard season, league mvp and a championship for my team for the next 3 years. What did this transition period teach you about yourself, and how have the last few months shaped you not just as a player but as a person? It taught me how resilient I am, how much I can deal with and still perform and remain calm. They have made me realize that as long as you do your job, people will see the real. In professional football, plans can change quickly. How do you stay mentally locked in through uncertainty, and when things become uncertain, what helps you keep your confidence high? The best way to do this is to make yourself irreplaceable. You can kind of control what happens to a certain extent with your play but the motto is always control what you can control. Confidence is something I've always had and it stems from just remembering who you are, what you've accomplished and understanding that a situation doesn't define you. What motivates you the most as you step into this new challenge, and do you feel like you have something to prove this season? Knowing that there's always someone watching you as a player. I always want to prove to myself every year that I'm better than the last. What kind of leader do you want to be in your new locker room? I'm a vocal leader and can't wait to be in an environment that allows me to be me. How has your game evolved over the last few seasons, what part of your game are you most proud of today, and what are you still working hardest to improve? There have been so many things I've learned in the last couple seasons and my pocket presence I think reflects that. My ability to make something out of nothing, to understand that sometimes you have to extend and make plays while keeping your eyes downfield at your receivers. I would say my under center footwork, ive always been in shotgun or pistol, haven't had many systems require me to be under center. Having played in different environments, what have those experiences taught you as a quarterback and as a person? It taught me that to play in Europe you have to be at your best at all times, if you aren't perfect that can be the difference between winning or losing. Most of these guys work 9-5 jobs so they don't get to train as much as the Americans do so it's on us to really lift the team up with our play. How do you go about adapting to a new system, new teammates, and a new culture so quickly? As a QB its all about being relatable, understanding that even though we are from different countries we have a lot of similarities. It just takes a couple nights out with your teammates and things typically fall into place. As for the systems, that's a lot harder just because some of the systems might go against everything you've been taught in America, but it's my job to just be coachable and adapt. What do you enjoy most about playing football in Europe, and what is it about German football that fits you particularly well as a player? The connections you make. These connections and memories you make with your guys are irreplaceable. The football knowledge in Germany and the competitiveness in Germany is what has always drawn me there over other countries. The coaches pay attention to detail and are open to learning from us as imports as well. Who or what has helped keep you grounded during this period of change? God has always been my foundation but outside of that just my family being behind me as well as my former teammates. When fans watch you this season, what do you want them to see in your game and your personality? Everyone who has seen me play knows I bring a lot of intensity and personality when I step on the field. I want them to see what I saw when I watched my first football game. The excitement, competitiveness and the joy of 11 people working together towards one goal. At the end of the season, what would make you look back and say, “This was the right decision”? The championship that we will bring to the city. What message would you send to people following this next step in your journey? Anyone who had to stop and reset, pivot or take a step back to move 3 steps forward use my career to see that it's possible and that no one or nothing can stop you but you from completing your goals. It's ok to start over. If there is one thread running through Keegan McCormack-Reamer ’s words, it is belief, in himself, in the work, and in what this new chapter can become. Germany offers a fresh start, but also a stage to confirm everything he believes he is capable of. Now, the objective is simple: lead, perform, and win.

Week 9 of the LPFA didn’t just bring results — it brought clarity. As the regular season progresses, the gap between contenders and the rest is no longer subtle. With dominant performances at the top and growing struggles at the bottom, the identity of this year’s championship race is beginning to take shape. And now, more than ever, the standings tell the story. Devils set the benchmark The Lisboa Devils  continue to separate themselves from the rest of the league. In a commanding win over the Lisboa Bulldogs , the Devils  once again showed why they sit at the top of the standings, undefeated and with the most dominant point differential in the competition. Their strength lies not just in winning, but in how they win. On the ground, the rotation of André Fraga , Juzz , Boris , and Lucas Marinho provided consistent and effective production, with each running back contributing meaningful yardage. Through the air, the connection between the Solipa brothers and João Dias continues to give the offense a dynamic edge, making it extremely difficult to defend across all phases. This is a team that doesn’t rely on one dimension — it controls the game everywhere. For the Bulldogs , however, the issues persist. Despite visible flashes of individual talent, the lack of team identity and cohesion remains the defining factor. Once again, they struggled to compete collectively, and bringing a limited roster into a home game only reinforced that gap. At this stage, the Devils  are not just leading — they are setting the standard for the entire league. Navigators rise to the occasion If Week 9 had a defining game, this was it. The Lisboa Navigators  win over the Cascais Crusaders  was more than just another victory — it was a statement. With both teams entering as contenders, this matchup carried clear playoff implications. The Navigators  imposed their style, particularly through a strong rushing identity, controlling tempo and dictating the flow of the game. But defensively, one name stood above the rest: José Soares . With a standout performance and multiple sacks, he became a constant disruptive force, setting the tone and limiting the Crusaders  offensive rhythm. For Cascais , this game serves as a reality check. They remain firmly in the playoff picture, but this loss highlights what separates them from the very top. The difference was not just execution, but intensity. If the Crusaders  aim to contend for the title, their level will need to rise — especially in games of this magnitude. A postponed game The matchup between the Salgueiros Renegades and the Maia Mutts was postponed, for reasons that remain unknown. While it may seem secondary compared to the headline games, this postponement could have important implications in the lower half of the standings, where every opportunity to secure a win is critical. The standings take shape After Week 9, the league table reflects what we are seeing on the field. At the top, both the Lisboa Devils  and Lisboa Navigators  remain undefeated, clearly establishing themselves as the two strongest teams in the competition. Just behind them, the Cascais Crusaders hold a solid position but now face increasing pressure to close the gap. Further down, the Braga Warriors  continue to sit in a balanced position, while teams like the Bulldogs , Renegades , and Mutts  struggle to find consistency — both in results and identity. More than just rankings, the standings now reflect a league divided into tiers. What comes next: the game of the season And now, everything points to what could be the most important game of the regular season. Next week, Lisboa Devils  face Lisboa Navigators — a clash that will determine the only undefeated team left in the championship. It’s more than just a top-of-the-table matchup. It’s a collision between the two most complete teams in the league, each with a clear identity and a growing sense of inevitability. In many ways, this isn’t just a regular season game. It feels like a preview of the final.

As always, a reminder before we get into it: this is subjective. These rankings are based on results, game flow, momentum, level of opposition, and the overall impression each team left this weekend. They are not the standings, and they are not meant to be taken personally. The goal is simple: place teams where they feel right now, after comparing what we thought we knew through the first month of the season with what Week 5 confirmed, challenged, or completely changed. And with the halfway point now here, this week mattered. At the top, the Black Panthers and Iron Mask did exactly what unbeaten heavyweights are supposed to do and kept tightening their grip on the race. The Flash avoided a bad result, but the draw keeps them just short of that very top tier. Marseille made the kind of climb that comes from stacking wins in very different styles, while Aix kept building real momentum with another result that felt bigger than it looked on paper. On the other side, Perpignan took another hit, and teams like Rouen , Grenoble , and Villepinte are running out of room to frame defeats as anything other than warning signs. Here’s where things stand after Week 5: 1. Black Panthers - Thonon-les-Bains (5-0) Still number one, and for me it’s getting harder and harder to make any serious case against them. What stood out to me in Rouen wasn’t just the score, it was the feeling of control. Even when the game wasn’t fully broken open early, they never looked bothered. Rouen briefly got back within reach, and Thonon just kept playing their game until the gap reappeared. That’s what the best teams do: they don’t panic, they don’t rush, they just lean on their identity until the opponent gives way. And right now, no one in France looks more comfortable in that identity than the Black Panthers . 2. Iron Mask - Cannes (5-0) I’m keeping them just behind Thonon , but the gap is not huge. What impressed me this week is how different this win felt from some of their earlier ones. Against Grenoble , there was no slow burn, no feeling-out phase that lingered too long. They hit immediately and never came off the gas. Yes, Grenoble are struggling, but a 49-0 road win still says something about a team’s concentration and maturity. For me, Cannes are starting to look less like a good undefeated team and more like a team that knows exactly how strong it is. That makes them very dangerous. 3. Flash - La Courneuve (3-1-1) This is where things get more interesting. The draw at the Météores doesn’t feel like a disaster at all, especially given the injury situation and how messy things seem to be around the quarterback spot right now. In a weird way, I actually came away respecting the Flash defense more than anything else. They were in a game where offensive rhythm was hard to find, and they gave Fontenay very little. That said, I can’t ignore the fact that offensively, this team still feels restricted compared to the two unbeaten teams above them. They’re still clearly one of the best teams in the country, but right now they feel a little less complete than Thonon and Cannes . 4. Blue Stars - Marseille (3-2) This is probably the boldest move in my ranking, but I’m comfortable with it. Marseille are climbing because over the last two weeks, I’ve seen something I trust: a team that can win in different ways. Week 4 gave them the offensive release game against Grenoble . Week 5 gave them the exact opposite: a gritty, low-scoring road game where the defense carried the weight and one offensive play made the difference. That matters a lot to me. When a team starts showing multiple winning scripts, I’m more inclined to believe in it. I’m not saying Marseille are suddenly a title favorite, but right now I trust their trajectory more than the teams directly behind them. 5 . Météores - Fontenay-sous-Bois (3-1-1) They stay in the upper half because I thought this draw said some good things about them, even if it wasn’t spectacular. This was the kind of game where both teams were wounded, both attacks were limited, and the margin for error was tiny. In that type of game, Fontenay held up well. I didn’t come away blown away, but I also didn’t come away thinking they had slipped. The frustrating part for them is that they probably had a real chance to win it, and the late penalty on the return will sting. Still, if I compare their overall body of work and what they showed against a top-level opponent, I’m keeping them solidly in this range. 6. Molosses - Asnières-sur-Seine (2-3) This week helped them, but not enough for me to push them much higher. The 50-7 win is obviously huge on paper, and they did exactly what they should do against a team in Villepinte ’s form: take control and keep pouring it on. I liked that they didn’t let the early response from the Diables Rouges create doubt. They reasserted themselves quickly and turned the game into a blowout. But I’m still a little careful here, because the opponent matters, and because I want to see this level travel. At home, the Molosses look increasingly convincing. Now I want to feel the same thing away from Asnières before I push them above the teams ahead. 7. Argonautes - Aix-en-Provence (2-2-1) They are the team I’m most tempted to keep climbing. Two straight wins, and the second one means much more than the first. Going to Perpignan , falling behind 12-0, then flipping the game with your run game and your physicality? That’s the kind of performance that changes how I look at a team. This didn’t feel fluky to me. It felt like a team growing into itself. I still keep them behind Marseille , Fontenay and the Molosses because the earlier part of the season matters too, but the arrow is clearly up. And honestly, if they do it again next week, they won’t stay this low. 8. Grizzlys - Perpignan (3-2) This is where the ranking starts to get uncomfortable for them, because I still think there is real quality here. But two weeks in a row, I’ve seen the same bad pattern: good start, then fading control, then a game slipping out of their hands. That is a major red flag. Against Aix , they had the game where they wanted it in the first half, and once again they couldn’t sustain it. Badis Grami ’s injury obviously changes things and has to be factored in, but even beyond that, this team suddenly feels fragile. I’m not burying them, because the ceiling is still obvious, but right now I can’t keep them in the top four on reputation alone. 9. Ours - Toulouse (1-4) They keep sliding for me. I don’t think the 7-0 loss to Marseille was disgraceful, because defensively they were in the kind of game they probably wanted. But at some point, “it was close” stops meaning much when you never actually flip those games. Toulouse are now too often playing football that keeps them alive without really convincing me they can take control. That’s a dangerous place to be. I still have them above Rouen because I trust their defense a bit more, but this team feels stuck right now, and stuck is rarely a good sign at midseason. 10. Léopards - Rouen (1-4)  I actually thought parts of this game against Thonon were more respectable than the score might suggest, but I’m still dropping them into this zone because moral positives only go so far. Yes, they were overwhelmed early. Yes, they did respond and briefly cut the gap. But no, I never really believed they were turning the game. That’s the issue. Rouen have moments, but they don’t sustain enough quality to make those moments feel like momentum. The offense still feels too vulnerable when they lose control of the script, and right now I find them hard to trust over four quarters. 11. Centaures - Grenoble (0-4-1) They stay here because this weekend felt brutal in every sense. A 49-0 loss at home is the kind of result that wipes out a lot of the “they compete hard” credit they had built in previous weeks. I had at least felt before that Grenoble could stay annoying, stay close, maybe turn a game ugly enough to create pressure. I didn’t feel that here. Cannes hit them early, and from there the game looked completely one-way. There’s still enough from earlier weeks to keep them above Villepinte for now, but the margin is shrinking fast. 12. Diables Rouges - Villepinte (0-5) Still last, and unfortunately this week did nothing to challenge that. The most frustrating part, honestly, is that the game did not start hopelessly. They answered the first Molosses score and for a brief moment it looked like maybe this could stay competitive. Then it completely collapsed. That’s what keeps them at the bottom for me: not just losing, but losing control of games so quickly once the momentum turns. Until that changes, it’s very hard to move them anywhere else.

1. Calanda Broncos (1-0) The Broncos are one of only two teams that played this week (75–0 win vs. Zurich ). Calanda is still the team to beat and, while Max Gray is not replaceable, they remain the favorites to four-peat and are also contenders for the CEFL . Alpine Häns standout wide receiver Ismael Schmid is a great addition. Swiss QB Robin Sennrich only continues to improve. 2. Basel Gladiators (0-0) The vice champs have the best WR corps and the best secondary in the league. Oh, did I mention they also have the best signal caller, two-time MVP Sky Noble ? The team is loaded with winning experience, featuring many current Pioneers and Cheetahs players. The first game of the season against Calanda will be difficult, as always. 3. Bern Grizzlies (0-0) I expect Bern to improve. They upgraded at the QB position and have Nolan O’Leary , one of the best WRs in Switzerland and a flag national team player. The Grizzlies are coming off a 3rd-place finish last year and a 4th-place finish in the 7v7 Swiss Championship . I could absolutely see them reaching the Swiss Bowl . 4. Winterthur Warriors (0-0) After the first three teams, there is a small gap. However, Winterthur was hot at the end of last season, just missing out on the playoffs. Alpine Häns gunslinger and Offensive Rookie of the Year Loris Lenzlinger will feed his weapons, Ramon Angst and Timo Hager , all season long. 5. Geneva Seahawks (0-0) Clark Evans is still elite, and every team with him has a chance to reach the Swiss Bowl . The 7v7 vice champs want to make it back to the playoffs. I like their new WR Aidan from Arizona. Their front seven and running backs are also strengths. The secondary might struggle this year without former standouts like Wilson Idemudia . 6. Thun Tigers (0-0) The only team without an import continues to impress. Nicolas Leibundgut is arguably the best Swiss QB and definitely the most experienced. If his favorite target, Thomas Gfeller , and star running back Noah Gygax can stay healthy, the semifinals are possible. 7. Zurich Renegades (0-1) The Renegades finished last year in last place. With a promising young quarterback and Daniele Reich as a true number one WR, they should be able to win a couple of games, but not much more. 8. St. Gallen Bears (0-0) The Bears dropped off a bit last year after a surprising semifinal appearance in 2024. With a new QB from Brazil , they want to make it back to the playoffs, and they definitely have talented players like Kevin Gemperle . I don’t like that HC Renato Vaccari is no longer in charge. Unfortunately, I don’t see them winning more than 2–3 games this year.