Week two’s slate of UFL action kicked off on Friday night. It was a heavyweight battle between the Birmingham Stallions and Michigan Panthers, as the two dueled it out for the sixth time in modern spring football history.
Coming into this game, the two teams were on different paths. The Michigan Panthers took care of business in week one, knocking off the Memphis Showboats in dominant fashion. However, the Birmingham Stallions lost to the DC Defenders, stunned by their fierce pass rush as Alex McGough stumbled throughout the second half.
This game was pivotal for the USFL Conference standings. Michigan, with a win, could have taken a 2-0 lead on the rest of their division rivals. Birmingham, on the other hand, was hoping to avoid slipping to 0-2 – a start that would have even the most loyal of fans worried.
Let’s take a look at what went down at Ford Field, as the Stallions were able to put it together despite an early injury. Skip Holtz and this squad have never lost twice in a row, and that trend continued on Friday night.
First Quarter
The Stallions opened up with possession, and right off the bat saw Alex McGough go down with an injury to his throwing shoulder. Matt Corral entered the game – and retained his role throughout the remainder of the night with Alex sidelined. Birmingham was able to get into field goal range, and put the first points on the board taking a 3-0 lead, courtesy of Harrison Mevis.
Most of the first period would be a slugfest. Michigan’s offense got off to a slow start, as Bryce Perkins & Co. couldn’t find much of a rhythm. The Panthers punted it away, only for the Stallions to give it right back. Noah Dawkins made a nice play on a ball intended for Jace Sternberger, and Birmingham had to punt as well.
As the first quarter came to a close, Michigan had possession – but was backed up in a 3rd and 9 scenario.
Second Quarter
The Panthers punted it away, but their defense would stand strong. After…