UFL Week 8: Defenders Triumph Over Renegades in Nail-Biter

WASHINGTON, D.C. – May 18, 2025 – The United Football League (UFL) concluded Week 8 with a thrilling matchup between the Arlington Renegades and the D.C. Defenders at Audi Field. The Defenders, now improving to 6-2, edged out the Renegades with a score of 34-31 on Sunday.

D.C. quarterback Jordan Ta'amu showcased his skills during the game, completing 22 of 30 passes for 320 yards and four touchdowns. His standout performance included a decisive throw to wide receiver Cornell Powell for the game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter.

“I just focused on the moment and trusted my teammates,” Ta’amu said after the game. “We knew we had to execute, and we did. It’s all about keeping the momentum going into the postseason.”

The Renegades fought hard to stay in the game, particularly in the second half. Despite trailing by 14 points at one point, they rallied back to even the score at 31 with less than five minutes remaining. However, the Defenders’ defense held strong toward the end, allowing only a field goal and securing the victory.

“We gave it our all,” said Arlington head coach Bob Stoops. “We showed resilience coming back, but we need to learn how to finish. It’s a tough loss for us.”

The game not only had playoff implications but also highlighted several key performances throughout. D.C. defensive tackle Joe Wallace made a significant impact with a season-high three sacks, making life difficult for Renegades quarterback Luis Perez.

“We wanted this win badly,” Wallace stated. “Every game matters now, and we’re ready to make our mark in the playoffs.”

In other UFL action over the weekend, the Birmingham Stallions continued their push for the playoffs with a victory over the Houston Roughnecks, further shaking up the standings.

The UFL regular season winds down with only two weeks left, intensifying the competition for playoff spots as teams gear up for the upcoming postseason.