Michigan Panthers Secure UFL Playoffs Vs. Defenders

Week seven of the UFL resulted in a Michigan Panthers win over the D.C. Defenders. The Panthers win also secures them a spot in the UFL Playoffs. The final score of the game was 22-9. Here is a look at the game, the MVP of the match, and what is next for these two teams.

Exciting First Quarter

The game begins with Michigan having possession. The Panthers came out quickly with a strong run game. D.C. struggled to get to the runner multiple times. There were two big runs on the first drive to start the game. These runs put the Panthers in a position for the touchdown. That is when QB Brian Lewerke ran it himself for a touchdown to start the game. They then the one-point conversion to make it a 7-0 game in the first three minutes. This was a 95-yard drive for the Panthers.

On the defensive side, Michigan did well closing in on DC, who had to punt the ball away. The Defenders did better on their second stint on defense. Michigan did not get as many big breaks as the first drive. A good pass breakup by D.C. was taken away due to a defensive pass interference, but there was improvement on defense there. The Panthers running back Wes Hills did score a touchdown to extend their lead. A false start on the one-point conversion pushed them back and they did not get it. The score stayed at 13-0.

The defenders responded with a 70-yard touchdown reception caught by wide receiver Ty Scott. This was a well-executed play by D.C. The score became closer at 13-6, Michigan still in the lead. The Defenders continued to play well, forcing Michigan to punt on their next drive. Things turned when Michigan ended up recovering the punt on the Defenders’ side of the field after the Defenders’ punt returner hit the ball and could not recover it. The Panthers almost handed the ball back to the Defenders on a messed-up snap but recovered it. The first quarter ends here with a score of 13-6, Michigan.

Second Quarter Improvements

Between Michigan’s poor snaps and penalties, as well as the Defenders not allowing the run game, Michigan was forced to attempt a 56-yard field goal. The kick was made a tad easier with the Defenders jumping too early, shortening it to a 51-yard field goal. The kick was good to make it 16-6. 

DC could not get much going on their drive, having to punt the ball, but it was a good punt as it ended up inside the Michigan ten. The Michigan Panthers’ drive continued with them moving down the field. The good run game opened up the team’s passing game. Credit must go to the Defenders’ defense for making the stop on 4th and 1. At this point of the game, it kept them in it. When DC got the ball back, it ended up being a three-and-out. 

The Michigan offense moved down the field well on their drive, with just a few inaccurate passes and penalties. They could not get into the end zone but walked away with a field goal to make it 19-6. The first half ends with a Michigan kick-off. The score remains 19-6 heading into the second half.