D.C. Defenders Capture UFL Championship with Statement Win Over Panthers

St. Louis, MO – The D.C. Defenders defeated the Michigan Panthers 58–34 on Saturday to claim the 2025 UFL Championship. This game served as a rematch of their Week 6 meeting, where the Panthers handed the Defenders a tough 38–14 loss. This time, D.C. flipped the script in a big way. With an explosive offensive performance that produced 580 total yards, four rushing touchdowns, and four through the air, the Defenders left no doubt. Their defense also made an impact by forcing two key turnovers that led to 14 points.

Jordan Ta’amu Delivers a Championship Performance

Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu was locked in from the opening snap. He completed 21 of 28 passes for 390 yards and threw four touchdowns, earning MVP honors for his performance in the title game. Ta’amu also added a rushing touchdown, capping off a nearly flawless day under center.

Dominant Day on the Ground

The Defenders didn’t just shine through the air, they controlled the game on the ground as well. D.C. racked up 190 rushing yards and scored four touchdowns on the ground.

Abram Smith led the way with 63 yards, Chris Rowland added 53 yards and a score, Deon Jackson contributed 46 yards and two touchdowns & Jordan Ta’amu chipped in a 1-yard touchdown run of his own

Panthers Strike Early

Michigan came out hot, scoring on its first two possessions. Running back Nate McCrary broke free for a 35-yard touchdown run to open the game, though the one-point conversion failed. D.C. quickly responded with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Ta’amu to Jaydon Mickens to tie it up. On the Panthers’ next drive, quarterback Bryce Perkins found Siaosi Mariner for another touchdown, putting Michigan up 13–6 by the end of the first quarter.

Defenders Erupt for 31 Points in the Second Quarter

The second quarter was all D.C. Matt McCrane started the scoring with a 22-yard field goal to narrow the deficit. Moments later, Ta’amu hit Cornell Powell on a 19-yard touchdown pass to give the Defenders their first lead at 15–13. They never looked back. Ta’amu added a 1-yard rushing touchdown, Deon Jackson powered in for a 5-yard score, and Ta’amu capped the half with a 73-yard bomb to Ty Scott, giving D.C. a 37–19 lead at halftime.

Finishing Strong as Champions

The Defenders played with confidence, control, and creativity in all four quarters. Their ability to bounce back from a regular-season loss to the Panthers and dominate in the biggest game of the year speaks volumes. With this victory, the D.C. Defenders are officially the 2025 UFL Champions.