Panthers Prevail in Ford Field Thriller: Michigan Edges San Antonio 26–23 in Week 3
Derek Katsaros / Elevated Media
In one of the most exciting games of the young UFL season, the Michigan Panthers emerged victorious over the San Antonio Brahmas with a final score of 26–23 on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Ford Field. The win moved the Panthers to 2–1 on the season and marked a critical moment in their early campaign, as they now sit near the top of the USFL Conference standings.
The sunny skies and 57-degree weather provided a perfect backdrop for the nearly three-hour thriller, which featured big plays, crucial defensive stops, and a game-winning drive in the final minutes. The Panthers relied heavily on the dual-threat ability of quarterback Bryce Perkins, who completed 17 of 23 passes for 193 yards and rushed 10 times for 30 yards and two touchdowns. His poise and mobility gave Michigan a consistent edge, especially in the red zone.
Michigan struck first late in the second quarter after trailing 9–0, with Perkins capping a quick 46-yard drive with a 2-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful one-point conversion. The Panthers then ended the half with a 34-yard field goal from B.T. Potter to take a 10–9 lead into the locker room.
The momentum carried into the third quarter. Perkins again found the end zone on a 2-yard keeper to extend the lead to 17–9. After a Brahmas response—a 15-yard touchdown pass from Kellen Mond to Anthony McFarland—the Panthers bounced back immediately. Running back Jaden Shirden broke loose on a 43-yard touchdown run that electrified the home crowd and gave Michigan a 23–15 advantage.
Shirden’s burst was part of a balanced ground attack that netted 115 rushing yards on 27 attempts. Shirden led all rushers with 59 yards on 7 carries (8.4 avg), while Perkins and fellow backs Nate McCrary and Toa Taua combined for 56 additional yards.
However, San Antonio wasn’t finished. With under five minutes left in the game, Brahmas linebacker Jordan Williams intercepted Perkins and returned it 85 yards for a touchdown, tying the game at 23–23 after a successful two-point conversion.
In a pressure-packed final drive, Perkins and the Panthers offense methodically marched down the field. Perkins connected with Malik Turner on a key 13-yard third-down conversion to enter field goal range. Toa Taua added tough yards on the ground, and with under a minute to go, B.T. Potter drilled a 28-yard field goal to put the Panthers back on top.
San Antonio made one final push. Quarterback Kellen Mond advanced the Brahmas into Michigan territory, but Donald De La Haye’s 53-yard field goal attempt as time expired fell short, sealing the Panthers' dramatic win.
Turner and Siaosi Mariner were Perkins’ top targets, each finishing with five catches for 54 yards. Devin Ross contributed three receptions for 51 yards, including a clutch 32-yard grab that helped set up Michigan's final scoring drive. The Panthers ended with 314 total yards and averaged 5.7 yards per play.
Defensively, linebacker Frank Ginda led the Panthers with nine tackles, including a half-sack. Defensive end Garrett Marino and Kenny Willekes each recorded sacks, while safety Kedrick Whitehead added eight total tackles. Michigan’s defense held San Antonio to just 257 total yards and limited explosive plays, with the exception of McFarland’s 29-yard rush and touchdown reception.
Special teams also played a significant role. Potter, despite an early missed field goal attempt, rebounded with two critical makes and consistent kickoffs. Devin Ross added 212 return yards on six kickoff returns, frequently setting the Panthers up with favorable field position.
The Panthers were disciplined throughout, drawing only five penalties for 24 yards, compared to San Antonio’s 11 penalties for 103 yards. Michigan also converted 6 of 12 third downs and went 1-for-1 on fourth down.
Head Coach Mike Nolan praised his team’s resilience: “We didn’t flinch when things got tough. That’s the mark of a team that’s learning how to win. We have things to clean up, but I’m proud of the way we executed in key moments.”
With the win, Michigan improves to 2–1 ahead of their next matchup against the Memphis Showboats on Friday, April 18, at Ford Field. Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on FOX.
As Elevated Media continues full-season coverage of the Michigan Panthers, fans can expect more in-depth recaps, game previews, and player spotlights all season long.