In a night to remember at The Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis, the DC Defenders delivered a stunning performance to claim the 2025 United Football League (UFL) Championship, overwhelming the Michigan Panthers 58-34 on Saturday, June 14. The Defenders, led by quarterback Jordan Ta’amu, set a new standard in UFL history with a record-breaking offensive display that left fans and analysts buzzing.
Ta’amu was nothing short of spectacular, throwing for 390 yards and four touchdowns while adding 28 rushing yards and another score on the ground. His precision and poise under pressure were on full display, especially on a 73-yard touchdown bomb to receiver Ty Scott that epitomized his MVP-caliber night. This performance not only avenged a 38-14 Week 6 regular-season loss to the Panthers but also etched Ta’amu’s name into the UFL record books with the most passing yards in a single game.
The Defenders’ offense was relentless, amassing 580 total yards and scoring the highest points ever recorded in a UFL game. Their balanced attack was complemented by a staunch defense that pressured Michigan’s quarterback Bryce Perkins, the league’s MVP, throughout the contest. Despite Perkins’ efforts — completing 8 of 13 passes for 160 yards and two touchdowns by halftime — Michigan struggled to keep pace with DC’s high-powered offense.
Michigan’s offense had moments of brilliance, including a 71-yard touchdown reception by Malik Turner and a 35-yard touchdown run by Nate McRary. Turner was a bright spot for the Panthers, scoring three touchdowns and showing why he was a key target for Perkins. However, Michigan’s late-game surge, including two successful fourth-and-12 conversions — the UFL’s innovative alternative to the traditional onside kick — was ultimately stifled by a critical interception from Kiondre Thomas, which helped seal the victory for the Defenders.
Defenders’ interim head coach Shannon Harris, who took over just six days before the season opener, saw his team execute a near-flawless game plan. DC outscored Michigan 31-6 in the second quarter alone, turning an early deficit into a commanding lead. The defense forced key turnovers, including a pivotal fumble recovery by Willie Drew Jr. on a kickoff, setting up another touchdown drive. Deon Jackson’s 19-yard rushing touchdown and Chris Rowland’s 19-yard scamper in the fourth quarter further extended DC’s lead, putting the game out of reach.
Halftime saw the Defenders holding a 37-19 advantage, fueled by Ta’amu’s 16 completions on 20 attempts, three passing touchdowns, and a rushing score, boasting a passer rating of 158.3. Michigan’s Bryce Perkins, meanwhile, had completed 20 of 25 passes in the conference championship and was named the UFL Offensive Player of the Year, but faced relentless pressure from DC’s defense, which tallied 22 sacks and seven interceptions over the season.
The Panthers entered the championship game as favorites, holding a -3.5 spread and a moneyline of -185 versus the Defenders’ +150. Both teams finished the regular season with identical 6-4 records, with Michigan having defeated the Birmingham Stallions 44-29 in the USFL Conference Championship and DC besting the St. Louis Battlehawks 36-18 in the XFL Championship Finals. The UFL, born from the 2024 merger of the USFL and XFL, features eight teams split evenly between USFL and XFL divisions, continuing to build momentum in its second season.
The championship game broadcast on ABC featured play-by-play commentary from Joe Tessitore and analysis by Jordan Rodgers, with sideline reports by Sam Acho and Tom Luginbill. Fans could also stream the game live on ESPN+, FuboTV, DirecTV, and SlingTV, reflecting the growing accessibility of spring football.
However, the Defenders faced off-field challenges as well. Cornerback Kelvin Joseph was arrested on the day of the game on charges related to a fatal crash in Dallas, though the UFL declined to comment further. Joseph’s absence did not deter the team’s focus and determination on the field.
Michigan’s offense, led by Bryce Perkins, showcased versatility and explosiveness throughout the season. Perkins ranked among the league’s top five in passing yards and touchdowns, while running back Toa Taua led the league in rushing touchdowns. The Panthers’ defense was notable for its league-leading rush defense, allowing just 80.9 yards per game, but struggled to contain the Defenders’ multifaceted attack on this night.
The Defenders’ victory marks a significant milestone for interim coach Shannon Harris, who guided the team to a 6-4 regular-season record before their dominant playoff run. Harris stepped in after Reggie Barlow’s departure and quickly established a winning culture, culminating in this championship triumph.
The UFL continues to grow its profile, with players earning a minimum salary of $62,005 in 2025, a 12.7% increase from the previous season, reflecting the league's commitment to player development and competitive compensation. The 2025 championship game also highlighted the league's innovative rules, such as the fourth-and-12 onside kick alternative, which added strategic depth and excitement to the contest.
As the final seconds ticked down, the Defenders’ defense held firm, stopping the Panthers on a critical fourth-and-3 with just over a minute remaining. With only one timeout left for Michigan, DC was able to run out the clock, securing their first UFL championship in franchise history.
This thrilling championship game not only showcased the talent and tenacity of both teams but also underscored the UFL’s rising stature in the landscape of professional football. As the league looks toward expansion and continued growth, the 2025 title game will be remembered as a defining moment in its young history.
