UFL Week 1: Michigan Panthers Face Memphis Showboats in Suspenseful Showdown

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The United Football League (UFL) kicks off its second season with the Michigan Panthers taking on the Memphis Showboats on Sunday at noon ET at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. This matchup will be crucial as both teams aim to establish dominance early in the season.

The Panthers, who boasted a strong 7-3 record last season, reached the conference finals but were defeated by the Birmingham Stallions, the eventual league champions, with a score of 31-18. In contrast, Memphis struggled in 2024, finishing with a mere 2-8 record, which included a league-worst point differential of minus-102.

Last season, Michigan prevailed in both encounters against Memphis, winning the most recent contest 24-18 in Week 8. This year, analysts have predicted the Panthers as 6-point favorites, with an over/under set at 38 points for the game.

“The Panthers have a robust offense and an experienced defense,” said UFL analyst Jeremy Jones. “They look ready to repeat their strong performance from last season.”

The Panthers will be led by veteran quarterback Danny Etling, who started last year’s conference finals. During the regular season of 2024, Etling threw for 787 yards, completing 69 of 114 passes and achieved three touchdowns with two interceptions. His dual-threat capability also saw him rushing for 143 yards and two touchdowns.

Meanwhile, the Showboats prepare for a pivotal change at the quarterback position, as Troy Williams fights for his position against backups E.J. Perry and Dresser Winn. Offensive line coach Jim Turner will step in as the interim head coach for Memphis after Ken Whisenhunt’s abrupt departure.

“We’re excited to see how Turner will strategize with the team,” said Showboats fan Johnny Parker. “Change can be tough, but it might rejuvenate the squad.”

Memphis’ offensive struggles will be a critical factor in their performance, as observed in their opener. Last season, the Showboats were unable to secure consistent scoring opportunities, leading to low offensive outputs in multiple games.

On the other side, Michigan’s critical offensive weapon, wide receiver Marcus Simms, returns after a brief stint with the Seattle Seahawks. Simms caught three passes for 32 yards in the conference finals and finished the 2024 season with 23 receptions for 426 yards and three touchdowns.

Moreover, the Panthers will launch an offense featuring former top UFL Draft pick, Jason Bean, formerly of Kansas. The 25-year-old quarterback recorded impressive stats last season, throwing for 2,130 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for three additional scores.

The matchup will depend not only on quarterbacks but also on the performance of wide receiver Daewood Davis, who was an All-UFL selection last year. Davis caught 41 passes for 446 yards and five touchdowns in 2024, establishing himself as a key target for Etling.

“Both teams have changes that will ultimately shape the game’s outcome,” said Hunt, an expert in football analysis. “I see the Panthers maintaining their composure against a Showboats squad that is still navigating turbulence.”

As fans anticipate the opening kickoff, the stakes are high for both teams to prove their worth early in the season. The kickoff is set for noon ET, and both teams will look to capitalize on their opportunities while navigating the complexities of early-season matchups.