I’ve been glued to the UFL all season, and honestly, this UFL Championship Game match up between the Michigan Panthers and D.C. Defenders feels like it’s been building for weeks. There’s a buzz around this game, not just for fans but for sports bettors too, and I’m stoked to break it down. Here’s what’s got everyone talking, plus a look back at the last time these teams clashed.

2025 UFL Championship Game Preview: Michigan Panthers vs. D.C. Defenders

Date/Time: Saturday, June 14, 2025, 8:00 p.m. ET

Stadium: The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, MO

TV: ABC

Betting Odds (via Bookie.ag, June 10):

Michigan Panthers: -160 (bet $10 to win $16.25 total)

D.C. Defenders: +135 (bet $10 to win $23.50 total)

Why are sports bettors so stoked? For one, this game’s a fresh matchup, no Birmingham Stallions dominating the spotlight for the first time in years. The Panthers knocked off the reigning champs in a 44-29 shootout last week, which was a bit of a shocker since Birmingham had been the UFL’s dynasty. That game showed Michigan’s offense, led by Bryce Perkins, can light it up, which has smarter bettors eyeing player props like Perkins’ passing or rushing yards. 

On the flip side, the Defenders, with Jordan Ta’amu slinging it, have been a gritty underdog story. They’re coming off a strong season with a 6-4 record, and their ability to keep games close makes that +3 spread tempting. Plus, the UFL’s been leaning hard into betting culture, live odds on broadcasts, prop markets galore—which makes every game feel like a Vegas buffet. I saw a post on Sports Hub saying the UFL’s “basically NFL Lite with better betting value,” and honestly, that tracks. There’s less historical data to overanalyze, so sharp bettors feel like they can find an edge, especially in a one-off championship game.

Over or Under? Breaking Down the UFL Championship Total

Now, let’s talk about the total, 49.5 points. I’m torn here. On one hand, both teams can score in bunches. Michigan’s been averaging over 30 points in their last few games, and Perkins’ ability to extend plays with his legs opens up big-play potential. D.C.’s no slouch either; Ta’amu’s got a knack for finding Chris Rowland, who’s a yards-after-catch machine. Their Week 3 matchup went over 50 points, which makes me lean toward the over. But here’s where I second-guess myself: championship games can get tight. Defenses step up, coaches play conservative, and the pressure might lead to stalled drives. The Defenders’ defense, with guys like Davin Bellamy, can get after the QB, and Michigan’s secondary isn’t exactly lockdown. I’m predicting the over hits, but barely, think a 27-24 or 28-21 type score. The offenses are too dynamic to be totally shut down, and the UFL’s rules, like the two-point conversion attempts in overtime, tend to inflate point totals. Bettors might like the over because both teams play fast, and the Dome’s indoor setting eliminates weather as a factor.

Cover Watch: Can Michigan Beat the Number in the UFL Final?

As for the spread, Panthers -3 feels like a trap, but I’m leaning toward Michigan covering. Their win over Birmingham was no fluke—Perkins carved up a tough defense, and their running game, with guys like Wes Hills, keeps defenses honest. D.C.’s got heart, and Ta’amu’s a gamer, but their secondary’s been inconsistent, giving up chunk plays to teams with mobile QBs like Perkins. That said, the Defenders thrive as underdogs, and +3 gives you some wiggle room if it’s a field-goal game. My gut says Michigan wins 27-21, covering the spread and pushing the total over. But I wouldn’t be shocked if D.C. keeps it closer, maybe a backdoor cover if Michigan pulls ahead early. I was chatting with a buddy who bets UFL games, and he’s all in on the Defenders because “underdogs with good QBs are money in spring football.” I get the logic, but I’m sticking with the Panthers’ momentum.

Here’s where my head’s at, and I might be overthinking it 

Michigan’s the safer bet, but I can’t shake the feeling D.C. could make this a dogfight. The Panthers’ defense is legit, but Ta’amu’s mobility might expose them like it did in Week 3 against St. Louis. Then again, if Perkins is even 80% healthy, Michigan’s dual-threat attack could overwhelm D.C.’s secondary, which gave up chunk plays to Birmingham earlier this year. I’m torn, which is probably why this game’s got me glued to my screen.

Bettors are in for a treat because this isn’t just a coin flip. You’ve got star power, momentum, and a chippy history between these teams. The Dome’s gonna be rocking, and I’m already counting down the hours. If I had to pick, I’d lean Panthers, but man, I wouldn’t be shocked if D.C. pulls it off.