STWF Sports | FORT HOOD, Texas |May 15, 2026 — A historic atmosphere, a nationally televised spotlight and a playoff-caliber crowd of military families created one of the most memorable nights in UFL history Friday evening at Fort Hood.

But despite an emotional start and an early double-digit lead, the Dallas Renegades watched the Orlando Storm rally for a 31-24 victory in the first professional football game ever played on an active United States military base.

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The loss spoiled a landmark night for the Renegades and allowed Orlando to officially clinch a playoff berth during its inaugural season under head coach Anthony Becht.

Powered by four rushing touchdowns and an efficient performance from quarterback Jack Plummer, the Storm overcame an early 10-point deficit while controlling critical moments throughout the second half.

Still, for much of the opening quarter, it appeared Dallas might steal the spotlight.

After the Renegades defense forced a quick three-and-out on Orlando’s opening possession, the Storm threatened early behind explosive return man Chris Rowland, who broke free for a 25-yard gain to ignite the offense.

However, difficult wind conditions inside Phantom Warrior Stadium immediately became a factor.

Orlando kicker Michael Lantz missed a 51-yard field goal attempt into the heavy Fort Hood wind, giving Dallas favorable field position.

The Renegades quickly capitalized.

Quarterback Austin Reed continued his impressive 2026 campaign by leading a composed opening drive highlighted by a 22-yard catch-and-run from receiver Drake Stoops.

Although the drive stalled in the red zone, kicker Colton Theaker connected from 31 yards out to give Dallas an early 3-0 advantage.

Moments later, another missed long field goal from Orlando once again swung momentum toward the Renegades.

Lantz pushed a 52-yard attempt wide, allowing Reed and the Dallas offense to immediately attack once more.

Reed looked sharp throughout the first half, consistently extending plays with both his arm and mobility. A 12-yard scramble energized the offense before the quarterback rolled to his right and delivered a strike to veteran receiver Greg Ward on the move.

The drive ended with one of the biggest moments of the night.

Reed lofted a perfectly placed back-shoulder touchdown pass to wide receiver Emmanuel Butler in the corner of the end zone — the first touchdown ever scored during a professional football game on a military base.

The touchdown gave Dallas a commanding 10-0 lead and ignited the crowd packed with active-duty service members and military families.

Reed’s touchdown pass marked his eighth passing score of the season, while Butler recorded his fourth receiving touchdown of the year.

But Orlando slowly regained control as the game progressed.

Plummer settled into rhythm during the second quarter, efficiently moving the chains while taking advantage of Dallas defensive lapses on third down. Orlando finished the game converting 11 of its 16 third-down opportunities, consistently extending drives and wearing down the Renegades defense.

The Storm’s rushing attack eventually became the difference.

Orlando punched in four rushing touchdowns overall, repeatedly finding success near the goal line and controlling time of possession throughout the second half.

Dallas struggled to consistently get stops once Orlando established momentum offensively.

Even so, Reed continued battling.

The young quarterback once again flashed the arm talent and poise that have made him one of the breakout stars of the UFL season. Reed consistently attacked downfield while showing chemistry with receivers Butler, Ward and Stoops throughout the night.

However, key late possessions stalled as Orlando’s defense tightened during crunch time.

The Storm eventually closed out the game with critical third-down conversions and timely rushing scores that silenced the crowd and secured the historic victory.

While the result was disappointing for Dallas, the night itself represented a landmark moment for spring football and military appreciation efforts across the country.

The matchup served as the centerpiece event for the UFL’s “Hats Off To Heroes” initiative honoring active-duty military personnel, veterans and first responders throughout the month of May.

Thousands of service members and their families packed Phantom Warrior Stadium, creating one of the most unique environments professional football has seen in recent memory.

For the Renegades, the loss drops Dallas further into a crowded playoff race entering the final stretch of the season.

For Orlando, the win not only clinched a postseason berth but also cemented one of the franchise’s biggest victories during its inaugural campaign.

And for the UFL, Friday night delivered something larger than football — a historic event celebrating military service while creating a lasting moment in professional sports history.