HLC Week 3 Recap: The Undefeated Jaybirds Soar, Tacos Bring the Heat, Leatherheads Dominate, and Robots Roll

Wednesday September 25th, 2024

As Week 3 wraps up in the HLC, the Jaybirds have officially claimed the throne as the only undefeated team left standing. It was a week full of fireworks, with dominant performances across the board, blowout wins, and a few teams still searching for their first victory. The battle for supremacy in both divisions is heating up as we head into the heart of the season, and with each passing week, the picture of who’s a contender and who’s fading becomes clearer. Let’s dive into the action!

Jaybirds Outlast Tourists to Remain Unbeaten

The highly anticipated showdown between the Jaybirds and the Austin Tourists lived up to the hype, but it was the Jaybirds who prevailed, 150-134, in a high-scoring affair. Despite the Tourists’ stars Josh Allen and Derrick Henry both putting up over 30 points, it was the Jaybirds’ trio of Saquon Barkley, Rashee Rice, and Joe Burrow who stole the show. Together, they combined for nearly 90 points, with Barkley’s monstrous performance (33.6 points) earning him Player of the Week honors. The victory propels the Jaybirds to 3-0, making them the last undefeated squad in the league.

Next week, the Tourists face a tough test at home against the New Mexico Lobos, while the Jaybirds look to stay perfect as they host the Rockport Leatherheads in what could be another thrilling matchup.

Tacos Torch Muskellunge in Blowout Victory

The San Antonio Tacos served up some serious heat, dismantling the winless Michiana Muskellunge 121-64. It was a complete team effort from the Tacos, led by RB Kyren Williams and WR Chris Olave, who made quick work of the Muskies. Michiana saw solid outings from RBs Breece Hall and Jahmyr Gibbs, but their efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Tacos’ relentless attack.

In Week 4, the Tacos will look to build on their momentum as they host the Tortilla Flats Troubadours, while the Muskellunge will try to shake off their 0-3 start when they host the Robots.

Robots Flatten Troubadours in Tight Contest

The i2^3∑π bounced back in Week 3 with a 114-102 win over the Tortilla Flats Troubadours. It was a quarterback battle, with Lamar Jackson leading the Troubadours with 25 points, but it was Dak Prescott who stole the spotlight for the Robots, racking up 29 points and leading his team to victory. The Troubadours kept it close, but in the end, it was the Robots’ consistency that earned them their first win of the season.

Next week, the Robots will look to make it two in a row as they travel to face the Muskellunge, while the Troubadours will try to rebound on the road against the surging Tacos.

Leatherheads Top Lobos in Gritty Battle

The Rockport Leatherheads turned in a strong team performance to edge out the New Mexico Lobos, 134-121, in a hard-fought game. The Lobos saw standout efforts from RB Zach Charbonnet and WR Ja’Marr Chase, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Leatherheads’ balanced attack. Rockport got over 15 points from five different players, led by QB Brock Purdy’s 25 points, sealing their second win of the season.

Next up, the Lobos head to Austin for a showdown with the Tourists, while the Leatherheads prepare for a challenging road game against the undefeated Jaybirds.

Player of the Week: Saquon Barkley, Jaybirds

Saquon Barkley earns Player of the Week honors after putting on a show in Week 3. Rushing for 147 yards and two touchdowns, Barkley was the difference-maker, totaling 33.6 fantasy points and leading the Jaybirds to victory.

Week 3 Power Rankings

  1. Jaybirds (3-0) – The Jaybirds are flying high, claiming the top spot as the league’s lone undefeated team.
  2. New Mexico Lobos (2-1) – Despite the loss, the Lobos’ firepower keeps them near the top.
  3. Rockport Leatherheads (2-1) – The Leatherheads’ gritty win over the Lobos solidifies their spot in the top three.

Standings After Week 3

HLC East

  • Jaybirds: 3-0
  • Tourists: 2-1
  • Tacos: 1-2
  • Muskellunge: 0-3

HLC West

  • Leatherheads: 2-1
  • Lobos: 2-1
  • Troubadours: 1-2
  • i2^3∑π: 1-2