Showboats vs Defenders UFL Pick: Defenders Defend Their Turf (Apr 5)

• The Showboats lost to the Michigan Panthers 26-12.​
• The Defenders are coming off a victory against the Birmingham Stallions 18-11
• These two teams last met on May 26th, 2024, the Defenders won 36-21.

The Memphis Showboats and D.C. Defenders are set to clash on Apr. 5, 2025, in a pivotal Week 2 matchup of the UFL season. Both teams aim to establish dominance early in the season, making this game crucial for momentum.

Showboats Want To Fight Back To Even

The Memphis Showboats are undergoing significant transitions this season. Interim head coach Jim Turner has taken the reins following Ken Whisenhunt’s unexpected departure.

The coaching staff sees six new faces, and 14 of the 50 players on the roster are embarking on their inaugural season with Memphis. This overhaul comes after a challenging 2-8 record in 2024. ​

Key players to watch include quarterback Jason Bean, the top pick of the UFL draft, and wide receivers Daewood Davis and Joseph Scates. Davis, an All-UFL selection, led the team with 41 receptions for 446 yards and five touchdowns last season. Scates and defensive end Jaylon Allen bring local flair as former University of Memphis standouts.

Establishing a balanced offensive attack and tightening defensive plays will be critical in countering the Defenders’ aggressive style.

Defenders Started The Season On A Strong Note

The D.C. Defenders commenced their 2025 season with a commanding defensive performance, achieving eight sacks and restricting the Birmingham Stallions’ quarterback to a mere 89 passing yards. This defensive dominance underscores the team’s commitment to a robust defensive strategy.

Offensively, quarterback Jordan Ta’amu returns after starting all 10 games last season, where he ranked second in the UFL in passing yards. Wide receiver and return specialist Chris Rowland, an All-UFL choice, contributed 20 receptions for 262 yards and three touchdowns. Cornerback DeAndre Baker, a 2019 NFL first-round pick, also earned All-UFL honors, bolstering the team’s defensive backfield. ​

Offensively, building upon Ta’amu’s experience and fostering connections with key playmakers like Rowland will be vital in overcoming Memphis’s defense.

To maintain their winning momentum, the Defenders should continue leveraging their defensive strengths to disrupt the Showboats’ offensive rhythm.

Memphis Showboats vs D.C. Defenders Pick

This Week 2 matchup presents an intriguing narrative: the Showboats’ revamped roster and coaching staff against the Defenders’ formidable defense and seasoned leadership. While Memphis is in a rebuilding phase, D.C.’s cohesive unit and recent defensive showcase position them as favorites. Expect the Defenders to capitalize on their defensive prowess and secure a victory in this encounter.​