UFL Playoff Preview: DC Defenders Host St. Louis Battlehawks

ARLINGTON, Texas — May 29, 2025 — The final week of the United Football League (UFL) regular season features a thrilling matchup as the DC Defenders face the St. Louis Battlehawks in a playoff preview. This exciting game will take place on Friday, May 30, at 8:00 p.m. ET at Audi Field.

Both teams are playoff-bound, and this contest will determine the top seed in the upcoming conference championship game. The Battlehawks, who have a strong five-game winning streak, previously suffered a defeat to DC in Week Three, losing 27-15 when DC quarterback Jordan Ta'amu threw for 243 yards and three touchdowns while St. Louis managed only 45 rushing yards.

The stakes couldn’t be higher; the Battlehawks boast the league’s second-ranked defense, allowing just 270.4 yards per game, while the Defenders lead in total offense with an impressive average of 357.6 yards. The matchup features top players like St. Louis running back Jacob Saylors, who leads the UFL in rushing, and Ta’amu, who continues to excel as the league’s top passer.

This previous encounter saw Ta’amu shine, but this week he will take a break, with backup Mike DiLiello getting the start. DiLiello’s performance last week, where he threw over 200 yards and a touchdown in the second half, has given the Defenders confidence in his ability to lead the team.

For the Battlehawks, quarterback Max Duggan has begun to hit his stride since taking over the starter position, ranking seventh in passing yards and showing strong running abilities as well. This game will not only be crucial for playoff positioning, but also for maintaining momentum going into the postseason.

As both teams compete for pride and a favorable playoff position, this weekend promises to be filled with thrilling football action. Fans can watch the game live on FOX starting at 8 p.m. ET on Friday.