
In front of an enthusiastic crowd of 18,684 at Audi Field Stadium, the D.C. Defenders secured their place in the XFL Championship Game after a decisive 37-21 victory over the Seattle Sea Dragons. The Defenders demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, with both passing and rushing touchdowns, and a strong defensive effort to seal the win.
The first half of the game saw a tight contest with the Defenders taking a narrow 9-6 lead into the break. However, D.C. came out firing in the second half, scoring 14 points in the third quarter and 14 more in the fourth to secure their spot in the championship game. The Defenders’ offense was led by Jordan Ta’amu, who threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, and D’Eriq King, who added 41 passing yards. The rushing attack was headlined by Cam’Ron Harris, who scored two touchdowns on the ground, while Abram Smith contributed another.
Seattle quarterback Ben DiNucci put up a valiant effort, completing 31 of 48 passes for 295 yards and three touchdowns. However, the Sea Dragons’ rushing game struggled to get going, with DiNucci and Phillip Lindsay combining for just 13 rushing yards.
The Defenders’ receiving corps had a productive day, with Briley Moore leading the way with 80 yards on four catches. Lucky Jackson and Ethan Wolf each caught a touchdown pass, while Josh Hammond contributed 55 yards on six receptions.
On the defensive side, D.C.’s Santos Ramirez and D.J. Swearinger each notched seven tackles, while Fadol Brown, Joseph Wallace, and Andre Mintze each registered a sack. The Seattle defense was paced by Tyrell Adams, who recorded nine tackles, and Antoine Brooks Jr., who contributed seven tackles and an interception.
NORTH DIVISION CHAMPIONS 🏆
— Audi Field (@AudiField) April 30, 2023
Congrats, @XFLDefenders 👏 pic.twitter.com/WvAyfAOn3h
The D.C. Defenders will now prepare for the XFL Championship Game, which will be held at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, May 13 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Congrats to the @XFLDefenders players, coaches and staff … See you in San Antonio #XFL #XFL2023 pic.twitter.com/Ipn97LxFoy
— XFLNewsHub (@XFLNewsHub) April 30, 2023
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Mark Perry, a passionate sports journalist and the founder and editor of XFL News Hub, has been at the forefront of covering the XFL since its revival in 2018. Within days of the XFL's announced return, Mark initiated XFL News Hub to keep the fans abreast of every detail, game, and development of the league. Mark's extensive knowledge of the sport, combined with his unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive and accurate reporting, has made XFL News Hub the go-to platform for all things related to the XFL. His work over the years has brought him recognition in the world of sports journalism, solidifying his place as a leading voice in XFL coverage. Beyond just reporting, Mark believes in fostering a community around the XFL, engaging fans through his innovative content and discussions. If you have any inquiries, comments, or insights you'd like to share, Mark welcomes you to contact him directly at mark.perry@xflnewshub.com.

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