Game Details
Date/Location: Sunday, April 27, 2025 / Choctaw Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Kickoff Time: 12:00 PM ET, 9:00 AM PT
Channel: ESPN, Fubo, YouTube TV, ESPN+
Odds
Spread: DC Defenders +3 (-110), Arlington Renegades -3 (-110)
Moneyline: DC Defenders +140, Arlington Renegades -160
Over/Under: 39 (Over -110, Under -110)
Overview
The DC Defenders (3-1) head to Arlington looking to bounce back after suffering their first loss of the season to the San Antonio Brahmas, 24-18. Despite the setback, the Defenders remain tied atop the XFL Conference standings with this week’s opponent, the Arlington Renegades (3-1). Sunday’s matchup features two of the UFL’s most complete teams in what could be a preview of a potential playoff battle later this season.
The Defenders offense continues to be led by Jordan Ta’amu, who leads the UFL in both passing yards (906) and touchdowns (6). Last week, despite the loss, Ta’amu turned in a stellar performance, completing 19 of 31 passes (61%) for a season-high 300 yards while adding 74 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
Meanwhile, Arlington boasts one of the league’s most disruptive defenses, which could pose challenges for DC’s high-powered offense. Both teams rank No. 1 and No. 2 in the UFL for sacks, tackles for loss, and takeaways, setting the stage for what should be a hard-fought battle with first place in the XFL Conference on the line.
Key Players
Jordan Ta’amu (QB)
League-leading 906 passing yards and 6 touchdowns through four games; completing 49.6% of his passes with 3 interceptions; added 88 rushing yards and 1 TD on the ground
Chris Rowland (WR)
15 receptions for 191 yards and 1 touchdown; leads team with 28 targets; averaging 12.7 yards per catch with a long of 45 yards
Abram Smith (RB)
Team-leading 65 carries for 183 yards (2.8 avg); added 4 receptions for 43 yards; looking for first touchdown of the season
Briley Moore-McKinney (TE)
6 receptions for 94 yards and team-leading 2 touchdown catches; emerging as a reliable red zone target
Keys to the Game
Contain Luis Perez
Arlington’s quarterback ranks second in the UFL with 728 passing yards. The Defenders defense must pressure Perez consistently, as he’s shown efficiency with an impressive 71.3% completion rate.
Win the Turnover Battle
Both teams rank among the league leaders in takeaways. In a matchup between evenly matched teams, ball security will be paramount, especially for Ta’amu, who has thrown 3 interceptions this season.
Establish the Running Game
The Defenders ground attack has struggled with efficiency (Abram Smith averaging just 2.8 yards per carry). Improving this aspect against Arlington’s stout front seven could open up Ta’amu’s passing opportunities.
Injury Report
Depth Chart
Score Prediction
This matchup features two evenly matched teams with complementary strengths. Arlington enters as slight favorites playing at home with a defense that excels at creating turnovers. However, the Defenders have the league’s most productive quarterback in Ta’amu, who showed last week he can produce even in defeat. Expect a physical, defensive battle that stays under the total.
Arlington Renegades 18 – DC Defenders 21
