Highlights:
* Nolan Henderson’s fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Emmanuel Butler proved to be the game-winner
* Houston’s defense recorded two critical interceptions to spark the comeback
* Roughnecks improve to 1-2 while Memphis falls to 0-3 in the USFL Conference
Results
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOU | 0 | 3 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 18 |
| MEM | 3 | 8 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 17 |
Game Recap:
The Houston Roughnecks staged a second-half comeback to secure their first win of the 2025 UFL season, defeating the Memphis Showboats 18-17 on the road. After trailing 11-3 at halftime, the Roughnecks outscored Memphis 15-6 in the second half with a dominant third quarter that saw them take the lead. The victory moves Houston to 1-2 on the season, while Memphis remains winless at 0-3.
Game Highlights Video:
Watch the full game highlights above to catch all the key plays from Roughnecks vs Showboats.
Roughnecks Performance:
Houston’s offense struggled in the first half but found its rhythm after the break, with quarterback Nolan Henderson providing a significant spark off the bench. The Roughnecks’ defense kept them in the game throughout, forcing two crucial interceptions that helped swing momentum in the second half.
Top Offensive Players:
* Nolan Henderson: QB – 10/11 for 80 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
* Zaquandre White: RB – 15 carries for 50 yards, 3 receptions for 28 yards
* Justin Hall: WR – 5 receptions for 22 yards
* Lawrence Keys III: WR – 3 receptions for 20 yards
* Emmanuel Butler: WR – 1 reception for 6 yards, 1 TD
Top Defensive Players:
* Marvin Moody Jr: LB – 6 tackles
* Leon O’Neal Jr.: S – 4 tackles, 1 interception
* Damon Arnette: CB – 3 tackles
* Israel Antwine: DL – 3 tackles
* Tashawn Bower: DE – 3 tackles, 1 sack
Showboats Performance:
Memphis controlled the first half but couldn’t maintain their momentum after halftime. Quarterback E.J. Perry had moments of brilliance mixed with costly mistakes, while the running game struggled to find consistent production against Houston’s defensive front.
Top Offensive Players:
* E.J. Perry: QB – 13/20 for 131 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT
* Troy Williams: QB – 4/8 for 63 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT; 4 carries for 35 yards, 1 TD
* Kwamie Lassiter II: WR – 6 receptions for 79 yards, 1 TD
* Jonathan Adams: WR – 5 receptions for 42 yards
* Kai Locksley: WR – 2 receptions for 28 yards
Top Defensive Players:
* Keaton Ellis: S – 6 tackles
* Kyree Woods: CB – 4 tackles
* Boogie Roberts: DL – 4 tackles
* Steele Chambers: LB – 4 tackles
* Mark Gilbert: CB – 3 tackles
UFL Scores and Standings Update
After week three of UFL action, the standings are beginning to take shape across both conferences. In the USFL Conference, the Birmingham Stallions maintain their position at the top with a 2-1 record, followed by the Houston Roughnecks (1-2) and Michigan Panthers (1-1), with the Memphis Showboats (0-3) still searching for their first win.
The XFL Conference continues to be dominated by the D.C. Defenders (2-0) and St. Louis Battlehawks (2-0), both remaining undefeated. The Arlington Renegades sit in third at 2-1, while the San Antonio Brahmas (0-2) round out the conference standings.
Final Thoughts
The Roughnecks showed tremendous resilience in this comeback victory, with their defense making clutch plays when it mattered most. Henderson’s efficient relief appearance at quarterback (10 of 11 passing) gave Houston the offensive spark they desperately needed, while the Showboats will have to regroup after letting a promising start slip away.
Will Houston build on this momentum to climb back into contention in the USFL Conference? Can Memphis overcome their 0-3 start to turn their season around? What are your thoughts on this game? Share your comments below.
1 Comment
by Greyson Alman
The USFL Conference is interesting this season. All four teams have looked good at times, but have obvious holes and weaknesses. The conference might not be decided until week 9 or 10.