Highlights:
- Jordan Ta’amu set UFL record with 390 passing yards and was named Championship Game MVP
- DC scored 58 points, the most ever in a UFL game and first team to break 50-point barrier
- Malik Turner set UFL record with 168 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns for Michigan
- DC outscored Michigan 31-6 in the second quarter to take control
Game Recap:
The DC Defenders captured the 2025 UFL Championship with a 58-34 victory over the Michigan Panthers at The Dome at America’s Center. After trailing 13-6 early, DC exploded for 25 unanswered points in the second quarter and never looked back.
DC Defenders Performance:
The Defenders put together one of the most dominant offensive performances in spring football history, setting multiple UFL records in the championship victory.
Top Offensive Players:
Jordan Ta’amu: QB – 21/28, 390 yards, 4 TD (UFL Championship Game MVP)
Jaydon Mickens: WR – 6 receptions, 132 yards, 1 TD
Deon Jackson: RB – 11 carries, 46 yards, 2 TD
Ty Scott: WR – 1 reception, 73 yards, 1 TD
Chris Rowland: WR – 5 receptions, 45 yards
Top Defensive Players:
Kiondre Thomas: CB – 1 interception, 19 return yards, 2 passes defended
Derick Roberson: DE – 1 sack, 4 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 2 QB hits
Anthony Hines III: LB – 6 tackles, 1 QB hit
Malik Fisher: DE – 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss
Trey Dean III: CB – 5 tackles
Michigan Panthers Performance:
The Panthers started strong with touchdowns on their first two possessions but couldn’t match DC’s offensive firepower throughout the game.
Top Offensive Players:
Bryce Perkins: QB – 21/35, 338 yards, 4 TD, 1 INT
Malik Turner: WR – 10 receptions, 168 yards, 3 TD (UFL record)
Siaosi Mariner: WR – 4 receptions, 84 yards, 1 TD
Nate McCrary: RB – 6 carries, 62 yards, 1 TD
Toa Taua: RB – 8 carries, 34 yards
Top Defensive Players:
Donavan Mutin: LB – 12 tackles
Kai Nacua: FS – 11 tackles, 1 forced fumble
D.J. Miller Jr.: CB – 5 tackles, 2 passes defended
Ron Stone Jr.: DE – 0.5 sacks, 4 tackles, 1 QB hit
Taylor Stallworth: DT – 0.5 sacks, 1 tackle, 1 QB hit
This championship game showcased the explosive offensive potential of UFL teams, with both squads combining for 92 points and over 1,000 total yards. The Defenders’ victory capped off a dominant playoff run and established them as the 2025 UFL champions.
How will DC build on this championship success heading into next season? Can Michigan bounce back from this loss and challenge for the title again? What are your thoughts on this record-setting championship game? Share your comments below.
1 Comment
by Patrick in Pittsburgh
At the start of the season, I was just looking for a team that would compete for a playoff spot. That was *before* Reggie Barlow and Co. took off.
What Shannon Harris and this team did should have books written about, and a 30 for 30 episode. Congrats, guys. 2025 UFL Champions, and it feels so damn good.
#ShieldsUp #DefendFootballBaby