St. Louis opens the season with a 16–10 win over DC, flipping the game after halftime behind a dominant defensive stretch and the go‑ahead touchdown from Brandon Silvers to Tyler Neville. The Battlehawks finish with seven sacks, interceptions from Jordan Mosley and Myles Sims, and key contributions from Gary Jennings Jr., Kevon Latulas, and Jarveon Howard. Tucker McCann adds three field goals, including a 58‑yarder, as St. Louis controls the fourth quarter and closes out the defending champions. Ricky Proehl’s postgame message centers on perseverance, finishing, and reclaiming the Dome.