Takeaways from Defenders Remaining Undefeated With Win Over Showboats

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The D.C. Defenders are the first team in the UFL to win two straight games to start the season as they beat the Memphis Showboats 17-12 on Saturday.

Despite Memphis outgaining the Defenders 303-257 and winning the time of possession by over five and a half minutes, the Defenders got two turnovers on defense, with the first in their territory and the second recovering a fumble at the end of the game. D.C. did gain 113 yards rushing to Memphis’ 103 yards.

Memphis drops to 0-2 on the season, while the Defenders improve to 2-0. This is the second win for the Defenders in the series.

Takeaways From Game

E.J. Perry-Jonathan Adams Combo Killing Defenses

It was a great bounce-back game for E.J. Perry, who was outplayed by his backup Troy Williams last week. He finished with 200 passing yards and one interception with a 63% completion percentage, adding 26 rushing yards and one touchdown. Perry made some nice back shoulder throws to Jonathan Adams and avoided taking any sacks.

Adams was even better as he cemented himself as the best wide receiver in the UFL through two weeks. He finished with eight receptions for 123 yards, the most in the league in 2025. His ability to go up and make a catch is a trait not many receivers have outside of Hakeem Butler.

Showboats Offensive Line Best Performance?

Memphis’ offensive line has not been great over the last couple of years, especially last year, when it allowed the most sacks in the league. Against D.C., the unit did not allow a single sack after the Defenders had eight sacks on the Birmingham Stallions a week ago.

The Showboats also successfully ran the ball, gaining 103 yards and one touchdown on an average of four yards a carry. With all those components to the game, Memphis's offensive line might have had its best performance in franchise history.

Defenders Need Consistency From Offense

There were moments when Jordan Ta’amu looked good with some nice throws, but he often missed passes. In the win, he went 12 of 26 for 152 yards and one touchdown. He didn’t get much help from his receivers as there were multiple drops by them.

It’s not hurting them now, but the Defenders' defense has allowed just 23 points in two games and has dominated through the season. If the offense can’t find consistency in the passing game, it could cost them games later in the season.