The upcoming UFL Week 2 matchup between the Birmingham Stallions and Michigan Panthers promises to be a thrilling clash between two teams with contrasting starts to the season. The game is scheduled for Friday, April 4, 2025, at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, with kickoff at 8:00 PM ET.
Birmingham Stallions: Seeking Redemption
The Birmingham Stallions, defending UFL champions, enter this game with a 0-1 record after a surprising 18-11 loss to the DC Defenders in their season opener. The Stallions struggled offensively, with quarterback Alex McGough facing relentless pressure that disrupted their rhythm. McGough completed only 43.5% of his passes for 89 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. Running back Ricky Person Jr. showed flashes of physicality but was limited to 29 rushing yards on six carries.
Defensively, Birmingham showcased some bright spots, with linebacker Tae Crowder leading the team with 11 tackles and a pass breakup, and cornerback Steven Gilmore contributing nine tackles and three pass breakups. However, the Stallions’ pass rush, a hallmark of their success last season, was largely ineffective, managing just one sack in the opener.
Head coach Skip Holtz will look to address these issues and ensure his team avoids back-to-back losses—a scenario the Stallions have never faced since their return to spring football in 2022.
Michigan Panthers: Building Momentum
The Michigan Panthers started their season strong with a convincing 26-12 victory over the Memphis Showboats. Quarterback Bryce Perkins was the standout performer, completing 16 of 19 passes for 163 yards and a touchdown, while also adding a rushing touchdown. Perkins’ dual-threat capability poses a significant challenge for opposing defenses, and his chemistry with wide receiver Marcus Simms, who recorded 53 receiving yards, adds another layer to Michigan’s offensive threat.
Defensively, the Panthers were dominant, forcing two interceptions and limiting Memphis to just 12 points. Linebacker Frank Ginda and defensive end Kenny Willekes were instrumental in applying pressure, combining for 1.5 sacks. The Panthers’ defense, which allowed only 12 points in Week 1, will aim to replicate their success against Birmingham’s struggling offense.
Head coach Mike Nolan will rely on his team’s defensive prowess and Perkins’ playmaking ability to secure a victory and maintain their early-season momentum.
Key Matchups
Alex McGough vs. Michigan’s Defense: McGough will need to bounce back from his poor performance in Week 1, but Michigan’s experienced pass rush, led by Breeland Speaks and Kenny Willekes, could make life difficult for him.
Bryce Perkins vs. Birmingham’s Defense: Perkins’ ability to extend plays with his legs and find open receivers will test Birmingham’s linebackers and secondary, particularly Tae Crowder and Steven Gilmore.
Panthers’ Rushing Attack vs. Stallions’ Run Defense: Michigan struggled to establish their ground game in Week 1, averaging just 3 yards per carry. Birmingham’s stout run defense could force Perkins to shoulder more of the offensive load.
