The defending champions travel to Orlando without Jordan Ta'amu in a must-win playoff race showdown.
This Week's UFL Schedule
DC Defenders at Orlando Storm
When | Saturday, May 23 at 12:00 AM ET |
Where | Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando |
TV | FOX |
Line | Orlando Storm -2 | O/U 46 |
The Storm (6-2) have locked up a playoff spot and sit atop the UFL standings, but they're hosting a dangerous Defenders squad that desperately needs this win to keep their title defense alive. DC comes in reeling after losing Jordan Ta'amu to a season-ending knee injury, completely reshaping their championship hopes with just two weeks left in the regular season.
Orlando has been the league's most consistent team all season, riding Jack Plummer's steady arm and a balanced rushing attack led by Jashaun Corbin. The Storm will be having their "Hats Off to Heroes" game honoring first responders and military families, and they'll look to clinch the top seed with a victory over the defending champs.
Players to Watch:
Jack Plummer (Storm, QB) — League leader with 1,710 passing yards and just 1 interception while eyeing an NFL return.
Deon Jackson (Defenders, RB) — Third in the UFL with 347 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns, must carry the load without Ta'amu.
Elijhah Badger (Storm, WR) — Fourth in receiving with 454 yards and 4 scores, Plummer's top target in the red zone.
Pick: Storm 24-17. Plummer's precision passing and home field advantage prove too much for a Defenders team still adjusting to life without their franchise quarterback.
UFL Standings
Team | W | L | PF | PA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Orlando Storm | 6 | 2 | 176 | 144 |
St. Louis Battlehawks | 5 | 3 | 175 | 162 |
DC Defenders | 5 | 3 | 239 | 168 |
4 | 4 | 148 | 167 | |
Louisville Kings | 4 | 4 | 186 | 169 |
Dallas Renegades | 3 | 5 | 181 | 206 |
Houston Gamblers | 3 | 5 | 148 | 202 |
2 | 6 | 153 | 188 |
Quick Hits
Storm coach Anthony Becht is actively campaigning for eight of his players to get NFL camp invites, calling Jack Plummer a lock for the next level.
Jashaun Corbin has quietly rushed for 353 yards this season and could feast against a Defenders defense that's allowed big rushing games lately.
DC must find a new starting quarterback with Ta'amu done for the year — expect a committee approach in this crucial road test.
Standings | Full Schedule | League Leaders
Who wins this week? Drop your picks in the comments.