These are two teams in opposite positions.
The Birmingham Stallions will finish in first place with a win (and maybe even with a loss).
The Memphis Showboats will finish in last place, no matter the outcome of the game.
Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean this won’t be an exciting game.
First of all, there are a bunch of guys on both sides fighting for NFL dreams.
Secondly, the Stallions are looking to find their rhythm before the playoffs.
Perhaps the biggest reason this game will be exciting is the fact that it’s a revenge game.
First Matchup
In the first matchup, the Stallions fell victim to the classic trap game.
On paper, they were big favorites, but games aren’t played on paper. The game ended up being a 24–20 Showboats victory.
It was a historic game because it was the UFL’s first overtime game.
The game featured Harrison Mevis’s only miss of the season, a 63-yarder that was returned for a TD right before the half. That allowed the Showboats to go into halftime with a 17–3 lead.
The Stallions didn’t quit, though. They fought back to force overtime. Unfortunately, the Showboats dominated overtime to win the game.
Birmingham Stallions
The Stallions got a huge win over Michigan last week. They will look to get a win this week to build momentum before the playoffs.
Keys to victory
Establish the run (not just J’Mar)
The Stallions’ run game was anemic last week, minus QB scrambles and QB draws. J’Mar Smith is playing well, but establishing the run game will make things easier for him.
One bit of good news is that RB Ricky Person Jr. is back to training after missing the last game.
Limit mistakes
The Stallions have been downright sloppy at times. They’re one of the most penalized teams in the league. Their -1 turnover ratio is also lower than you would expect from a title contender.
Air it out
J’Mar Smith loves to throw deep, which makes sense because it’s been successful. Big plays make things easier, but it’s not just that. Throwing deep opens up the run and screen game.
Memphis Showboats
The season didn’t go the way the Showboats wanted. But they aren’t a bad team. Three of their losses were by less than a touchdown. That includes two one-point losses to Houston.
Keys to victory
Takeaway the deep ball
The Stallions have found a lot of success with the deep ball. However, the offense is also somewhat mistake-prone. If Memphis can take away the deep ball, it would force the Stallions to drive the whole field mistake-free.
Take advantage of opportunities
The Stallions are a very good football team, but they aren’t perfect. They turn the ball over at times and commit more penalties than they should. If Memphis can take advantage of some of those mistakes, it would help their cause.
Take care of the ball
The Showboats boast a league-worst -11 turnover differential. It’s hard to win football games when you don’t take care of the ball.
Game Information
Date and Time: June 01, 3:00 PM ET
Location: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, Memphis, TN
TV Broadcast: FOX
Betting Odds Per DraftKings (May 29th :)
Spread: Stallions -6.5
Moneyline: Stallions -325, Showboats +260
Over/Under: 38.5
