D.C. at Memphis: Jordan Ta'amu, Defenders Rout Sputtering Showboats in Week 9

Jordan Ta'amu and the D.C. offense showed out against the Showboats, putting up 431 yards of total offense in Memphis.

Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

MEMPHIS, TN — The Defenders (4-5) might not have much left on the line this season, but they certainly didn’t play like it on Sunday. Quarterback Jordan Ta’amu led a determined D.C. squad to a 36-21 victory over the host Showboats, handing Memphis (1-8) its eighth loss in a row.

D.C. led 30-7 in the third quarter and 36-13 in the fourth, thanks to a strong showing from Gregg Williams’ defense and a potent offensive attack that outgained the Showboats’ by a margin of 431 yards to 231.

Josh Love provided a bit of a bright spot for Memphis after taking over for Troy Williams at quarterback, adding a pair of fourth-quarter scores. He was picked off twice during the frame as well, however, including by Montae Nicholson on the alternative kickoff to seal the D.C. win.

Chris Rowland hit the JETS 🔥✌️

On 4th & 2 the @XFLDefenders go for it and come up with a touchdown! pic.twitter.com/bmYqnw3y8Q

— United Football League (@TheUFL) May 26, 2024

Now, some necessary shout-outs following the Defenders' Week 9 victory.

Jordan Ta’amu

The 2023 XFL Player of the Year was excellent on Sunday, even with a pair of end zone interceptions. Ta’amu completed 20 of 24 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns, also contributing 38 yards and a score on the ground.

Jordan Ta'amu with a DIME to Alex Ellis for the TD 🏹🏹

The @XFLDefenders strike just before the end of the first half 🛡️ pic.twitter.com/hnXrQKzNFt

— United Football League (@TheUFL) May 26, 2024

Montae Nicholson

On top of his game-sealing pick, Nicholson amassed seven total tackles, four solo tackles and one pass breakup.

Keke Coutee

Coutee was the Defenders’ leading receiver with 69 yards — one of four players to catch for at least 49 yards — on five receptions. Additionally, he found the end zone in the second quarter to cap a 14-play, 89-yard drive that he had previously extended with a 7-yard run on third-and-2.

Too easy for Keke Coutee 💪

The @XFLDefenders add on another in the first half pic.twitter.com/jEGqW1LO22

— United Football League (@TheUFL) May 26, 2024

D.C. closes out its season next weekend against visiting Arlington, and Memphis will host Houston in a rematch of the Showboats' lone win of the year.

You can find Kacy Sager on X (Twitter) at @THESagerbomb.

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