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XFL D.C. Defenders

Defenders Win Opener

February 22, 2023 - XFL (XFL)
D.C. Defenders News Release


The D.C. Defenders started off the 2023 with a bang, as they won in comeback fashion over the Seattle Sea Dragons, 22-18.

After an early 6-yard pitch and catch for a touchdown between Ben DiNucci and Josh Gordon and a 36-yard field goal from Dominik Eberle, the Defenders found themselves down 9-0 heading into the 2nd quarter.

Jordan Ta'amu rushed for a 1-yard touchdown for the first score of the game for the Defenders. After a successful 2-point conversion pass to Lucky Jackson the Defenders were able to cut the lead to 1, with the score being 9-8.

After the half, the Defenders came out unable to score and went on to punt for the third straight possession, giving the ball to Seattle at their 34-yard line.

Brendon Knox capped off the Sea Dragons' first drive of the 2nd half with an 8-yard score. After a penalty resulting in 5 yards, the Sea Dragons converted on a 3-point attempt and pushed the margin to 18-8 at the 3:45 minute mark of the 3rd quarter.

Down, the Defenders proved to be just that after Ben DiNucci's pass intended for Kelvin McKnight was intercepted by Michael Joseph and returned 15 yards for a touchdown. After the score, the Defenders cut the lead to 18-14 with 6:28 left in the 3rd quarter.

To end the quarter, Michael Joseph earned his second interception of the night after picking off Ben DiNucci once again and returning the ball to the Seattle 14. This would set the final score for D.C., which would end up being a 5-yard rush from QB D'eriq King, pushing the home team ahead by a score of 18-22.

After several defensive stands, Seattle was unable to score on their final drive and the D.C. Defenders ended the 4th quarter in victory formation for their first win of the 2023 XFL season.

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