With much anticipation, the UFL has dropped its schedule for the 2024 season. Regardless of the name change, Houston is very passionate about its football and the Roughnecks have a storied history. However, they are continuing the story of the Gamblers who have a less successful history. In the XFL the Roughnecks were 12-3 across the two seasons played. In the USFL, the Gamblers are 8-12 but were on the upswing in their most recent season.
Week 1 – vs. Memphis Showboats – March 31st, 3 p.m. ET – ESPN
Houston opens inside their new home, Rice Stadium, taking on the Memphis Showboats. Memphis went 5-5 last year with head coach Todd Haley. A change occurred as new head coach John DeFilippo along with QB Case Cookus are leading the charge in the UFL.
Week 2 – @DC Defenders – April 7th, 4 p.m. ET – Fox
DC historically has always been a tough fight, regardless of opponent. In the XFL the Roughnecks didn’t beat the Defenders in their only matchup. They also have a dangerous running back in Abram Smith. Smith led the XFL in rushing and was All-XFL for the 2023 season.
Week 3 – @Michigan Panthers – April 14th, 12 p.m. ET – ABC
Never underestimate an opponent, even if their past records are dismal. Michigan has a 6-14 record in it’s existence. Mike Nolan notably brought their win record up along with giving the team their first playoff appearance. With a brand new set of coordinators in Marcel Bellefeuille (Offense) and Collin Bauer (Defense), Michigan is looking to make it back to the playoffs.
Week 4 – vs. Arlington Renegades – April 21st, 2 p.m. ET – FS1
The first of three very tough matchups for Houston, as they take on the reining XFL champions. Arlington has retained it’s starting QB Luis Perez aswell as XFL rushing yards leader (and Pizza enthusiast) De’Veon Smith. Despite some coaching and player changes, Arlington remains a threat.
Week 5 – vs. Birmingham Stallion – April 27th, 7 p.m. ET – FOX
The second of the three very tough matchups hosts back-to-back USFL Champion Birmingham. They have a lot going for them with a lot of notable names on offense. Returning 2022 Championship MVP Victor Bolden, former Texans wideout Amari Rodgers, and Bo Scarborough. This game will be a challenge with Skip Holtz still in charge.
Week 6 – @St. Louis Battlehawks – May 4th, 3 p.m. ET – FOX
After taking on the two champions, Houston goes into the bird’s nest to take on the Battlehawks. St. Louis loves its football and the dome atmosphere is a factor that cannot be ignored. The Roughnecks’ track record with St. Louis is 1-1, so this could go either way. However, expect it to be a very loud and hard-hitting fight.
Week 7 – vs. San Antonio Brahmas – May 12th, 3 p.m. ET – ESPN
The Brahmas are still a young organization, going 3-7 under Steelers Legend Hines Ward. On paper, this seems like a trap game based on names alone. But with Wade Phillips taking over, and a lot of former Roughnecks following, this will be something to watch. Keep your eyes on Brycen Alleyne and that San Antonio defense.
Week 8 – @Birmingham Stallions – May 18th, 4 p.m. ET – ESPN2
Hosting the two-time champs is one thing, going into their home and beating them is another. Hopefully, they learn from the first matchup and bring the ol’ Roughneck special to Birmingham. To play disruptor to a three-peat will be on every USFL-Division team’s mind.
Week 9 – vs. Michigan Panthers – May 26th, 2:30 p.m. ET – FOX
Another potential trap game that depends mainly on the first matchup. Michigan doesn’t seem built to make a playoff push but they are an enigma as it stands. A must win for Houston in order to secure the playoffs.
Week 10 – @Memphis Showboats – June 2nd, 7 p.m. ET – FOX
Ending the season as it started, a dance with Memphis. The Showboats, much like the Panthers, are a wait-and-see team. The late-season games usually come down to defense and unless Memphis can keep presumed QB1 Case Cookus and the offense afloat, they may sink.
The Roughnecks have a long road ahead of them to establish their identity and add to the illustrious legacy they’ve taken on. With a doubleheader with the champs and a string of tough games, Houston has to get creative on offense. Runningback Mark Thompson seems to be the center piece of the offense as it stands, take him away and they may struggle. With a defense that looks deadly on paper, Houston has hopes of a championship. It all starts March 31st, 3 p.m. with the Showboats.
