In a thrilling XFL matchup at Lumen Field, the D.C. Defenders (7-1) managed to secure a narrow victory over the Seattle Sea Dragons (5-3), with a final score of 34-33. The official attendance for the game was 11,874, witnessing a high-energy contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The Defenders took an early lead, scoring 8 points in the first quarter and maintaining momentum with another 8 points in the second. However, the Sea Dragons refused to back down, scoring 6 points in the second quarter and adding 9 more in the third. The fourth quarter saw the most action, with the Sea Dragons scoring an impressive 18 points, while the Defenders put up 12, just enough to hold onto their win.
D.C.’s quarterback, Jordan Ta’amu, had a strong performance, completing 17 of 26 passes for 247 yards, averaging 9.5 yards per completion, with 4 touchdowns and no interceptions. The Sea Dragons’ quarterback, Ben DiNucci, also played well, completing 28 of 42 passes for 301 yards, averaging 7.2 yards per completion, with 3 touchdowns and 1 interception.
The Defenders’ running game was led by Abram Smith, who carried the ball 17 times for 66 yards, averaging 3.9 yards per carry and scoring 1 touchdown. Seattle’s rushing was led by Phillip Lindsay, who had 8 carries for 23 yards, averaging 2.9 yards per carry and scoring 1 touchdown.
In the receiving game, Chris Blair stood out for the Defenders with 5 receptions for 148 yards, averaging 29.6 yards per catch, and scoring 1 touchdown. On the Sea Dragons’ side, Juwan Green led the way with 7 receptions for 142 yards, averaging 20.3 yards per catch and scoring 2 touchdowns.
Both teams struggled with fumbles, as the Defenders lost 2 of their 4 fumbles, while the Sea Dragons recovered both of their fumbles. The Defenders’ defense made a crucial interception, courtesy of Joseph Wallace, which contributed to their victory.
D.C.’s kicker did not attempt any field goals or extra points during the game. Seattle’s kicker, Dominik Eberle, successfully completed his only field goal attempt from 29 yards, contributing 3 points to the Sea Dragons’ score.
The game was a hard-fought battle between two strong XFL teams, but in the end, the D.C. Defenders managed to hold off the Seattle Sea Dragons’ late surge, securing a close 34-33 victory.
The D.C. Defenders have secured a spot in the North Division Championship game with their win. The North Division Championship will be played on Sunday, April 30 at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN.
XFL Box Score
