UFL Week 2 Preview: Schedule, Matchups, and Player Spotlights

Week 1 Recap: The DC Defenders pulled off a significant upset against the three-time reigning spring champions, the Birmingham Stallions (18-11), despite recent coaching changes. Other games were decided by larger margins (14+ points).

Coaching Continuity Issues: Both the DC Defenders (Interim Coach Shannon Harris) and Memphis Showboats (led by former Penn State analyst Ken Whisenhunt) are operating under leadership adjustments made just before the season began.

Week 2 Schedule: Games span Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (April 5-7), featuring key conference clashes and teams looking to establish momentum.

Player Focus: Several former college standouts, including Penn State alumni like Keaton Ellis (Memphis), Steven Gonzalez (St. Louis), John Lovett (San Antonio), and Marquis Wilson (Houston), are contributing to UFL rosters.

Ratings Watch: Week 1 TV ratings saw a significant decline compared to the 2024 UFL kickoff, raising questions about sustained viewership for the league.

Why this matters: The early season results, coaching stability, player performances, and viewership trends are critical indicators for the UFL's competitiveness and long-term viability as a spring football option.

Birmingham Stallions (0-1) at Michigan Panthers (1-0)

*When:* Friday, April 5, 8 p.m., Fox

*Context:* A key USFL conference battle. Michigan impressed defensively in Week 1, while Birmingham's offense, led by QB Alex McGough (sacked 7 times vs. DC), faltered after halftime. The Panthers' pass rush could pose significant problems, potentially handing the Stallions their first-ever back-to-back losses.

Memphis Showboats (0-1) at DC Defenders (1-0)

*When:* Saturday, April 6, 8 p.m., ABC/ESPN+

*Context:* The Defenders aim to avoid a letdown after their big Week 1 win. Memphis struggled offensively, scoring only 12 points. DC QB Jordan Ta'amu led the league in passing yards (211) despite inefficiency (17/37) and faces a potentially more favorable matchup here. Memphis features former Penn State safety Keaton Ellis (7 tackles in Week 1) and is coached by Ken Whisenhunt.

Houston Roughnecks (0-1) at Arlington Renegades (1-0)

*When:* Sunday, April 7, 12 p.m., ESPN/ESPN+

*Context:* A tale of two Week 1s. Arlington dominated San Antonio 33-9 with a powerful run game, while Houston was routed 31-6 by St. Louis, giving up 273 rushing yards. Arlington's RB duo Ballage and Smith look poised for another strong outing against Houston's struggling defense. Houston also has QB questions, while Arlington's Luis Perez is a stable leader. Former Penn State CB Marquis Wilson plays for Houston.

San Antonio Brahmas (0-1) at St. Louis Battlehawks (1-0)

*When:* Sunday, April 7, 6:30 p.m., FS1

*Context:* St. Louis showcased a balanced attack in their 25-point Week 1 victory, featuring efficient QB play from Manny Wilkins and a potent ground game. San Antonio needs more offensive firepower from QB Kellen Mond and RB John Lovett (ex-Penn State) against a tough Battlehawks team playing in front of arguably the league's best home crowd. St. Louis OL Steven Gonzalez (ex-Penn State) earned All-XFL honors in 2023.

Q: What is the UFL?

A: The United Football League (UFL) is a professional American spring football league that resulted from the merger of the XFL and USFL, beginning its inaugural season in 2024 (with 2025 marking its second season according to the source data).

Q: How can I watch UFL Week 2 games?

A: Games are broadcast across Fox, ABC, ESPN, and FS1. Streaming is available via Fubo and ESPN+ for specific games (check listings).

Q: Which teams looked strongest in Week 1?

A: The DC Defenders scored a major upset, the Michigan Panthers showed strong defense, the Arlington Renegades displayed a dominant run game, and the St. Louis Battlehawks had a convincing all-around win.

Week 2 offers pivotal games that could shape early conference standings.

Keep an eye on how teams like the Stallions respond to opening week losses and how coaching changes impact teams like the Defenders and Showboats.

Follow standout players, including established spring league stars and former college athletes making their mark.

Watching the games supports the league's effort to establish a sustainable spring football presence.

Source 1: UFL schedule Week 2: What games are on today? TV channel, live stream, more target="_blank"

Source 2: Penn State in the UFL: Keaton Ellis among Nittany Lions on rosters for spring football league target="_blank"

Source 3: UFL 2025 Week 1 ratings sink in comparison to 2024 target="_blank"