DC Defenders overpower St. Louis Battlehawks to clinch UFL championship berth
The DC Defenders advanced to the UFL Championship Game with a decisive 36-18 road victory over the St. Louis Battlehawks at The Dome at America’s Center, fueled by Jordan Ta’amu’s efficient passing, Deon Jackson’s relentless ground attack, and a dominant defensive performance.
Balanced offense sets early tone
DC established control with a methodical first-half drive capped by Deon Jackson’s 4-yard rushing touchdown. Ta’amu (18/26, 204 yards, 1 TD) extended the lead with a 35-yard strike to Seth Williams, while Jackson (21 carries, 110 yards, 2 TDs) and Abram Smith (13 carries, 64 yards, 1 TD) wore down St. Louis’ front. The Defenders’ 388 total yards outpaced the Battlehawks’ 240, with Ta’amu spreading targets to seven receivers.
Defensive pressure stifles Battlehawks
DC’s defense sacked St. Louis quarterbacks five times, highlighted by Malik Fisher’s two sacks and forced fumble. Cornerback Trey Dean III intercepted Max Duggan in the third quarter, while linebacker Anthony Hines III recovered a fumble to halt a potential scoring drive. St. Louis managed only 3.8 yards per play, with Duggan (7/14, 105 yards, 1 INT) and Brandon Silvers (6/10, 81 yards, 1 TD) under constant duress.
Key contributors
Jackson’s dual touchdowns and 5.2 yards per carry anchored DC’s clock-controlling ground game. Williams (2 catches, 61 yards, 1 TD) delivered explosive plays, while Fisher’s two sacks spearheaded the defensive onslaught. St. Louis’ Jacob Saylors (9 carries, 45 yards, 1 TD) provided brief momentum, but linebacker Willie Harvey’s 15 tackles couldn’t offset the Battlehawks’ offensive struggles.
Road to the championship
The Defenders advance to face the Michigan Panthers on June 14, seeking their first UFL title. DC’s formula—balanced offense, red-zone efficiency (4/4 TD conversions), and relentless pass rush—positions them as formidable contenders. St. Louis’ season ends at 9-3, their playoff hopes dashed by turnovers and Silvers’ second-half injury.
Final note
DC’s defense, which held opponents to a league-low 15.1 points per game, now prepares for a championship clash against Michigan’s top-ranked rushing attack.
