Columbus Lions 2026 AAL Champions

by Kevin Ohanlon

Columbus Lions Complete Perfect Season, Capture 2026 AAL Championship

WHEELING, W.Va. — The Columbus Lions are champions once again.

The Lions completed a historic 11-0 undefeated season Saturday night by defeating the Wheeling Miners 49-46 to win the 2026 American Arena League (AAL) Championship. Trailing 20-9 at halftime, Columbus responded with a dominant second half, outscoring Wheeling 40-26 to bring another championship trophy back to the Fountain City.

After being held scoreless in the opening quarter, the Lions never lost their composure. Head Coach Damien Daniels made key halftime adjustments, and Columbus erupted for 20 unanswered points in the third quarter, completely changing the momentum of the game before holding off a late Wheeling rally.

Offensive Leaders

Quarterback Blaine Espinosa delivered another championship performance, completing 13-of-24 passes for 147 yards and three touchdown passes, while adding a rushing touchdown of his own.

Jarmon Fortson caught six passes for 41 yards and two touchdowns, while Jacob Smith hauled in three receptions for 48 yards and a score. Ja’Cyais Credle led the Lions with 58 receiving yards, and Marco Lee added a rushing touchdown to help fuel the offense.

Defense Wins Championships

The Lions’ defense came up with game-changing plays throughout the night.

Cameron Bergeron recorded 2 interceptions and 3 pass breakups, constantly disrupting Wheeling’s passing attack.
Denoris Wardlow added 2 pass breakups.
Dekoven Ware finished with 1 pass breakup, forced a fumble, and was active all night.
Mekall Yancie recovered a fumble and returned it 15 yards for a touchdown, one of the biggest plays of the championship.
Miquail Harvey recovered a fumble to give the Lions another critical takeaway.
DeAndre Brown led the pass rush with 1.5 sacks and three tackles for loss.

Special Teams Difference

Special teams also played a major role in the victory.

Brayden Wood converted 4-of-5 PATs for Columbus.
Wheeling’s AJ Bowen finished 2-of-3 on PATs.
Myron Mounds came up with a huge blocked PAT for the Miners during the game.

Championship Complete

Although Wheeling outgained Columbus in total offense, the Lions capitalized on timely turnovers, red-zone efficiency, and explosive defensive plays to secure the title. Columbus finished the season with a perfect 11-0 record, earning the 2026 American Arena League Championship and cementing one of the greatest seasons in franchise history.

Final Score

Columbus Lions 49

Wheeling Miners 46