Game Details
Date/Location: Friday, May 30, 2025 / Audi Field, Washington, DC
Kickoff Time: 8:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM PT
Channel: FOX, Fubo, YouTube TV, ESPN+
Odds
Spread: Defenders +2 (-110), Battlehawks -2 (-110)
Moneyline: Defenders +110, Battlehawks -130
Over/Under: 43 (Over -110, Under -110)
Overview
The DC Defenders (6-3) host the St. Louis Battlehawks (7-2) in a high-stakes regular season finale that serves as a preview of next week’s XFL Conference Championship Game. Despite securing a playoff berth, DC still has plenty to play for as they look to claim the top seed in the XFL Conference. The Defenders, who lead the UFL in total offense (357.6 yards per game), will be making a significant change at quarterback, resting MVP candidate Jordan Ta’amu and giving Mike DiLiello his first career UFL start. This strategic decision could impact DC’s explosive offense as they face the Battlehawks’ second-ranked defense (270.4 yards allowed per game). The Defenders won the previous matchup 27-15 in Week 3, but St. Louis enters on a five-game winning streak and with momentum on their side.
Key Players
Mike DiLiello (QB)
In limited action this season, DiLiello has completed 18 of 30 passes for 217 yards and one touchdown with no interceptions. The former Austin Peay standout, who threw for 3,164 yards and 33 total touchdowns in 2023 at the FCS level, gets his first start in place of Jordan Ta’amu.
Deon Jackson (RB)
Jackson has emerged as DC’s lead back, ranking third in the UFL with 414 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 81 carries (5.1 YPC). His explosive 57-yard run earlier this season showcased his big-play ability.
Chris Rowland (WR)
Rowland continues to be a dynamic playmaker, ranking second in the UFL with 510 receiving yards on 40 receptions with three touchdowns. His chemistry with DiLiello will be crucial to DC’s offensive success.
Braylon Sanders (WR)
Sanders has been DC’s big-play threat, accumulating 332 yards and three touchdowns on just 13 catches, averaging an impressive 25.5 yards per reception with a 76-yard long.
Max Duggan (QB – Battlehawks)
The former TCU standout has revitalized St. Louis’ offense, throwing for 696 yards and rushing for 300 more with nine total touchdowns in five starts. His dual-threat ability presents a significant challenge to DC’s defense.
Keys to the Game
DiLiello’s First Start
With Ta’amu resting, DiLiello must efficiently manage the offense without turning the ball over. His ability to connect with Rowland and Sanders on timing routes will determine whether DC can maintain their offensive rhythm.
Contain Duggan’s Dual-Threat Ability
The Defenders’ defense must account for Duggan’s mobility while not allowing him to find Hakeem Butler and other receivers downfield. Setting the edge and using disciplined spy techniques will be essential.
Special Teams Advantage
The kicking game could prove decisive with St. Louis’ Rodrigo Blankenship leading the UFL in field goal accuracy (95.0%) against DC’s Matt McCrane, who has been reliable from distance with multiple 50+ yard conversions.
Injury Report
Depth Chart
Score Prediction
With the Defenders resting Ta’amu and the Battlehawks bringing their league-leading defense to Audi Field, expect a competitive but lower-scoring affair than their previous matchup. St. Louis will ride their momentum and Duggan’s playmaking ability to edge out a narrow victory, though DC fans will still create an electric atmosphere with their famous “Beer Snake” for the final home game of the regular season.
Battlehawks 23 – Defenders 20
