Anthony Becht knows a thing or two, more like a million things, about football. As a former NFL player, prior ESPN college football analyst and current New York Jets color commentator, he puts his well-rounded experience to good use from playing for the Jets, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs. Over his 11-year career, he caught 188 passes for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Now as the Battlehawks' Head Coach in the United Football League, Anthony previously served as the head coach of the St. Louis Battlehawks in the XFL and led the team to a 7-3 record, which was the most wins among rookie head coaches in 2023. In 2024, the BattleHawks also finished with a 7-3 record and lost in the XFL Conference Championship game.
“We’ve made great progress over the last two seasons. The guys are focused and we have a collective culture that matters,” he assures. “I know how we work, I know what our coaches do, and I lean on those things. We have to go out there and prove it each game."
He says he wholeheartedly believes if players understand "the why," they have a better chance of having clarity when circumstances happen again. "We represent a fresh new page in players' careers, a chance for them to really prove themselves."
"The stats and play time are obviously selfish-driven factors, but great teams come from selfless players who realize that individual success comes with the team's success," he adds.
As an All-American player and first-round draft pick, Anthony says he remembers and empathizes with all the work and sacrifices wrapped up in these important sports opportunities.
He says his coaching style is anchored by positive reinforcement, spiked by tough love when necessary. "I care about the whole person. We build the man, helping them see what it takes to be a pro, and filling in gaps of self-doubt. It's a mental game that comes with carrying a certain standard."
The UFL was formed by the merger of the XFL and USFL in 2024 under the combined ownership of Redbird Capital Partners, FOX, Dany Garcia and Dwayne Johnson. The UFL has eight teams in St. Louis; Arlington, Texas; Birmingham, Alabama; Detroit, Michigan; Houston, Texas; Memphis, Tennessee; San Antonio, Texas; and Washington D.C.
“Coaching is my personal priority,” Anthony explains “Not only as the head coach of the Battlehawks and part of the UFL, but just in general. In my life, this is something I’m very passionate about, this is something I want to continue to be better at."
However, balancing his time between leading the team, while also maintaining a strong presence with his family is the name of Anthony's ultimate game. To some, Anthony is more simply "Rocco's dad." As Iowa State's quarterback, Rocco understands the bond cemented between players and coaches, and the two say they contact each other daily.
Anthony's staff definitely see him as a team leader who still makes time to be a strong father within his family, including his daughter, Olivia, who he says is an exemplary student at Florida State University.
"I love my schedule, what a blessing. In the spring, I coach. In the summer, my wife and I have time together. In the fall, I get to see my son play college football," he shares.
He thanks Battlehawks Nation's dedicated fanbase. "They're loud, they dress up, they bring banners and paint their faces, and they're definitely a factor in games. We appreciate everyone who comes out and supports us. It's also partly why other teams like to come play here in St. Louis. We enjoy having fans connected as winners, too."
Anthony was inducted into the University of West Virginia's Hall of Fame during the fall of 2023. As a former West Virginia tight end, he played for the Mountaineers from 1996-1999. Overtop the football field on the big game screen was where he proposed 24 years ago to his then college sweetheart and future wife, DeeAnn.
For home games, the Battlehawks play at The Dome at America's Center. This year's season began on March 28 and runs through May 30. Single ticket prices range from $16-$180 each. Season passes and tickets are available at UFLBattlehawks.com/tickets.
This fired-up coach recently told the players: "We keep stacking Ws, who can stop us? Nobody. We gotta' stay together."
To everyone else, Anthony encourages them to try attending one game. "It's a faster game and unique experience with very engaging, awesome fans. I promise that you'll have fun and are likely to want more."