DC Defenders route Michigan Panthers 58-34 on their way to first UFL Championship

WASHINGTON (7News) — As the D.C. Defenders capped off their unprecedented season with a 24-point victory over the Michigan Panthers in the 2025 UFL Championship Game, it was obvious who would be the game MVP.

Quarterback Jordan Ta'amu shined on spring football's biggest stage all season long, but Saturday night in St. Louis, he was unstoppable. Ta'amu set a UFL record with 390 passing yards, completing 75% of his passes with four touchdowns.

"It's a dream come true, man. We worked our butt off, and I can't even speak right now. I'm speechless because I'm so happy. My heart is racing, and I could not have done it without these guys," he said after the game.

The Defenders victory was made possible by a massive 31-6 second quarter. After Michigan scored on its first two possessions, the Defenders had a response every time. A pivotal point came in the second quarter when Michigan’s Xavier Malone fumbled on a kickoff return, giving DC possession at the Panthers’ 7-yard line. Ta'amu would go to work, scoring just four plays later to extend DC's lead.

Leading 37-19 at the half, the Defenders continued to pile it on in the third. After intercepting Panther's quarterback Bryce Perkins, the Defenders would go up 46-19 after running back Deon Jackson rushed across the goal line from 17 yards out. The Defenders added another touchdown via a pass from Ta’amu to Briley Moore on the first play of the fourth quarter to go on top 52-19.

The Defenders’ 58 points were the most ever scored in a UFL game and the most scored in the modern era of spring football.