Defenders topple Storm in UFL playoff upset as Bean leads charge to United Bowl
Jason Bean’s familiarity with Orlando’s defence proves decisive as DC Defenders eliminate inaugural season champions Orlando Storm in Daytona Beach
The DC Defenders have advanced to the United Bowl after defeating the top-seeded Orlando Storm 28-22 in the first round of the UFL playoffs on June 7. The victory eliminates the Storm, who finished as regular-season champions in their inaugural season, while the Defenders continue their pursuit of back-to-back UFL titles. The match, held at Daytona Stadium in Daytona Beach, Florida, marked a significant shift in momentum for the defending champions.
Quarterback Jason Bean was instrumental in the Defenders’ success, completing 18 of 33 passes for 233 yards and one touchdown without an interception. Bean, who was traded to DC from the Louisville Kings on April 19, added 40 rushing yards. His performance was bolstered by prior experience facing Orlando’s defence five times during the regular season while with the Kings, a factor he cited as crucial to the team’s offensive execution.
The game was relocated from Orlando due to a scheduling conflict with an international soccer match at Inter&Co Stadium. After scouting venues in Orlando and Columbus, Ohio, the UFL settled on Daytona Stadium. The event drew 6,317 spectators, with parking lots reaching capacity and forcing fans to park on the grass along LGPA Boulevard.
Orlando Storm quarterback Jack Plummer, an MVP finalist and the league’s leading passer, struggled to find rhythm against the Defenders’ defence. Plummer was held without a passing touchdown until a 40-yard strike to Chris Rowland with 3:02 remaining in the game. Storm head coach Anthony Becht acknowledged the team’s inability to convert in the red zone, noting that while the offence moved the ball, execution fell short when it mattered most.
Defenders edge rusher Derick Roberson, also an MVP finalist, played a pivotal role in stifling Orlando’s offence. Roberson was instrumental in the red zone, forcing a turnover on downs after the Storm reached the one-yard line on their third drive. The victory marks the third consecutive meeting between the two franchises, a rarity not seen at the professional level since 1943 when the New York Giants and Washington Redskins played three straight games.
