Highlights:
* Jordan Ta’amu’s fourth-quarter heroics led DC with 308 passing yards, 3 TDs, and the game-winning drive
* Arlington’s Ajene Harris recorded his league-leading third interception of the season
* DC Defenders (4-1) move to first place in the XFL Conference standings, pushing Arlington (3-2) to second
Results
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | TD | T | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC | 0 | 15 | 7 | 15 | 0 | — | 37 | Win |
| ARL | 11 | 16 | 3 | 3 | 0 | — | 33 | Loss |
Game Recap:
The Arlington Renegades suffered their first home loss of the season as the DC Defenders mounted a thrilling fourth-quarter comeback to secure a 37-33 victory Sunday afternoon at Choctaw Stadium. The Defenders scored 15 points in the final quarter to overtake the Renegades, who had led for most of the game. Arlington’s hopes were dashed when quarterback Luis Perez’s pass was intercepted in the end zone with just 15 seconds remaining, sealing the Defenders’ rise to the top of the XFL Conference standings.
Game Highlights Video:
Watch the full game highlights above to catch all the key plays from DC Defenders vs Arlington Renegades.
DC Defenders Performance:
The Defenders displayed remarkable resilience, overcoming an early 11-0 deficit to gradually claw their way back into the game. Their offense found its rhythm in the second half, with quarterback Jordan Ta’amu orchestrating an impressive aerial attack that ultimately proved too much for Arlington’s defense.
Top Offensive Players:
* Jordan Ta’amu: QB – 23-of-46 passing for 308 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT; 8 rushes for 37 yards, 1 TD
* Chris Rowland: WR – 7 receptions for 61 yards, 1 TD; 1 rush for 18 yards
* Cornell Powell: WR – 4 receptions for 89 yards, 1 TD
* Braylon Sanders: WR – 3 receptions for 81 yards, 1 TD
* Deon Jackson: RB – 6 carries for 32 yards, 1 TD; 1 reception for 5 yards
Top Defensive Players:
* Kelvin Joseph: DB – 8 tackles
* Anthony Hines III: LB – 6 tackles, 1 sack
* Deandre Baker: CB – 4 tackles
* Josh Proctor: S – 1 interception
* Andre Mintze: DE – 1 sack
Arlington Renegades Performance:
The Renegades started strong, building an early lead behind explosive plays, including Deontay Burnett’s 63-yard touchdown reception. However, their offense stalled in the second half, managing just 6 points in the final two quarters while surrendering 22 to the Defenders.
Top Offensive Players:
* Luis Perez: QB – 23-of-33 passing for 268 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
* Kalen Ballage: RB – 10 carries for 79 yards, 1 TD; 3 receptions for -4 yards
* Deontay Burnett: WR – 3 receptions for 78 yards, 1 TD
* Isaiah Winstead: WR – 3 receptions for 67 yards
* Tyler Vaughns: WR – 5 receptions for 56 yards
Top Defensive Players:
* Ajene Harris: CB – 6 tackles, 1 interception
* Steven Jones, Jr.: S – 5 tackles
* Donald Payne: LB – 4 tackles
* Jayden Price: DB – 4 tackles
* Chris Odom: DE – 3 tackles, 1 sack
UFL Scores and Standings Update
With this victory, the DC Defenders improve to 4-1 and now sit atop the XFL Conference standings, while Arlington falls to 3-2. In the broader UFL picture, the USFL Conference remains competitive with the Michigan Panthers and Birmingham Stallions both at 3-2. The XFL Conference continues to show its strength with three teams (Defenders, Renegades, and St. Louis Battlehawks) all boasting winning records, setting up a fascinating playoff race as the season progresses.
This back-and-forth contest showcased why the UFL has quickly become known for its competitive balance and late-game drama. The Defenders’ ability to execute under pressure, particularly in the final quarter, demonstrated why they now hold the conference lead. Meanwhile, Arlington’s collapse raises questions about their ability to maintain performance throughout all four quarters.
Will the Defenders be able to maintain their momentum and solidify their position atop the XFL Conference? Can the Renegades bounce back from this heartbreaking loss when they face the St. Louis Battlehawks (3-2) next Friday night? What are your thoughts on this game? Share your comments below.
