Week eight of the UFL kicked off today, with a game that didn’t mean too much when it comes to the playoffs. The 5-2 Michigan Panthers hosted the 1-6 Memphis Showboats at Ford Field, for the second of two meetings between these teams this season.
There was a special surprise prior to this matchup. Tom Brady made an appearance – which shocked just about everyone. He was there to do a practice run of commentating with Kevin Burkhardt, as the two will be calling NFL games this year.
This is not a drill. Tom Brady is at the @USFLPanthers game today.
Was not what I was expecting on my bingo card for today. #UFL pic.twitter.com/mjoTzIS5Zq
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) May 18, 2024
With Memphis having been eliminated last week, Michigan clinched their playoff spot. The Panthers have been on a roll, winning three straight games. Mike Nolan has his squad operating at a high level, and they’re dominating opponents week in and week out.
On the other side, the Memphis Showboats have lost six straight games. They’ve consistently been blown out, most recently losing 47-23 against Arlington. When these two franchises faces off in week five, the Panthers took care of business, 35-18.
Let’s take a look at what went down at Ford Field Today.
First Quarter
Brian Lewerke opened up this game at quarterback for the Michigan Panthers. It was smooth sailing for Lewerke, as he swiftly pushed the ball down the field. Brian found Cole Hikutini for an early score, and the Panthers jumped ahead 6-0.
Another opening drive TD for the @USFLPanthers‼️@colehikutini_07 gets 6!! pic.twitter.com/USOS1G3Y1F
— United Football League (@TheUFL) May 18, 2024
It would take just one play for the Memphis Showboats to strike back. John DeFilippo has consistently talked about getting off to a fast start, and that’s what they did. Case Cookus found Daewood Davis down the sidelines, who took it to the house on their first play from scrimmage.
DAEWOOD…