The Düsseldorf Panther (3-5) host the Paderborn Dolphins (1-7) at VFL Benrath Stadium on Saturday in a pivotal German Football League matchup with relegation implications. A Panthers victory would secure their spot in the league for 2026, while the Dolphins aim to reignite survival hopes after a turbulent season.
Dolphins seek rare momentum in turbulent season
The Paderborn Dolphins, led by head coach Jason Irmscher, have struggled this season, with their lone win coming against the Hildesheim Invaders. Quarterback Niklas Gorny (880 passing yards, 7 TD, 5 INT) and top receiver Jordan Pouncy (282 yards, 2 TD) anchor an offense facing a Panthers defense eager to clinch survival.
Watch live PPV. Paderborn Dolphins @ Düsseldorf Panther, Aug. 9, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am ET)
Panthers aim to lock in survival after Hildesheim setback
A recent loss to Hildesheim stalled Düsseldorf’s progress, but quarterback Cole-James Stenstrom (1,435 yards, 14 TD, 8 INT) and running backs Dean Tanwani (324 yards, 1 TD) and François-Guilhem Pion (306 yards, 2 TD) power their offense. Receiver James Agwu Okike (454 yards, 5 TD) remains a key weapon.
Key matchup: Stenstrom vs. Dolphins’ defense
Stenstrom’s 56% completion rate and 129.6 QB rating will test a Dolphins unit that has allowed 28+ points in all eight games.