UFL Playoff picture heating up after Week Nine

AFI | American Football | 05/27/2026

Week Nine in the United Football League was nothing short of chaotic, featuring record-breaking performances, shocking upsets, and significant playoff implications as the postseason picture began to crystallize. With the regular season winding down, teams are jockeying for position, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Storm solidify their dominance

The Orlando Storm (7-2) made a statement in their regular season home finale, clinching a playoff spot with a commanding performance. Quarterback Jack Plummer continued to build his MVP case, throwing for 275 yards and three touchdowns. Chris Rowland had a standout night against his former team, racking up eight catches, including a dazzling 62-yard touchdown. Despite the loss, Birmingham Stallions running back Deon Jackson set a new UFL single-season rushing touchdown record with his seventh score of the season.

Aviators stun Stallions

In a thrilling matchup, the Columbus Aviators (3-6) pulled off a stunning upset against the Birmingham Stallions (4-5). The game started with a wild sequence where Alex Cook returned a fumble 73 yards for a touchdown, only for Columbus to block the extra point and return it for a point of their own. With time running out, Jalen Morton led a 91-yard drive, scoring a touchdown and converting a two-point play to tie the game. DJ Miller Jr. then sealed the victory with a pick-six, leaving Birmingham’s playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

Kings keep rolling

The Louisville Kings (5-4) continued their strong push for the playoffs, dominating the Dallas Renegades (3-6) with a 37-point explosion. Quarterback Chandler Rogers accounted for three total touchdowns and posted a stellar 149.4 quarterback rating. Kicker Tanner Brown broke the UFL single-season field goal record, while defensive standout Cam Gill set a new single-season sack record with ten. The Kings now control their own destiny as they head into the final week.

Battlehawks clinch playoff spot

The St. Louis Battlehawks (6-3) also secured their playoff berth with a solid win over the Houston Gamblers (3-6). The Battlehawks’ defense was relentless, holding Houston to under 300 total yards and forcing multiple turnovers. This victory not only clinched a playoff spot but also marked a significant achievement for head coach Ricky Proehl in his first season.

As the regular season wraps up, the final week promises to be thrilling, with crucial matchups that will determine the playoff landscape. The Renegades face the Battlehawks in St. Louis, while the Stallions host the Gamblers in a must-win game. The Defenders will meet the Storm again, followed by a showdown between the Kings and Aviators. The excitement is palpable as teams fight for their postseason lives!