As Week 7 of the United Football League (UFL) 2024 season approaches, the Memphis Showboats (1-5, 1-3 USFL) and the Arlington Renegades (0-6, 0-3 XFL) find themselves in similar positions, desperate for a victory to turn their seasons around. The two teams will square off at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Saturday, May 11, in a matchup that could provide a glimmer of hope for the winner.

The Showboats enter the game coming off a 39-21 loss to the undefeated Birmingham Stallions in Week 6. Despite the lopsided final score, there were some positive takeaways for Memphis, including the play of wide receiver Dee Anderson, who caught a 34-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Troy Williams and added a three-point conversion. However, the Showboats’ defense struggled to contain the Stallions’ potent offense, allowing 39 points and over 400 yards of total offense.

To pull off the road victory against the Renegades, the Showboats will need a strong performance from their quarterback tandem of Case Cookus and Troy Williams. Cookus, who has shown flashes of brilliance this season, will look to take better care of the football after losing two fumbles against the Stallions. Williams, who replaced Cookus in the second half of Week 6, provided a spark for the offense and could see increased playing time if Cookus struggles.

The Showboats will also need a bounce-back performance from their defense, which has allowed an average of 33.5 points per game over the last two weeks. Linebacker Malik Lawal and safety Jarey Elder, who tied for a game-high eight tackles against the Stallions, will be tasked with slowing down the Renegades’ offensive attack.

The Arlington Renegades, meanwhile, come into Week 7 still searching for their first win of the season after a heartbreaking 28-27 loss to the Michigan Panthers. Despite the disappointing result, there were several encouraging signs for the Renegades, including the play of quarterback Luis Perez, who completed 24 of 37 passes for 180 yards and a touchdown, and the versatility of wide receiver JaVonta Payton, who scored a rushing touchdown and finished with 52 total yards.

To secure their elusive first victory, the Renegades will need to find a way to close out games, as they have now lost three contests by a single possession. The defense, led by linebacker Jamal Carter, who had a game-high nine tackles against the Panthers, must come up with crucial stops in key moments.

Offensively, the Renegades will look to establish the run with De’Veon Smith, who leads the team in rushing, and create opportunities for playmakers like Payton and tight end Sal Cannella in the passing game. If Perez can distribute the ball effectively and minimize turnovers, the Renegades have the potential to put up points against a vulnerable Showboats defense.

As the Showboats and Renegades prepare to face off in Week 7, both teams understand the importance of securing a victory. For Memphis, a win would not only snap a five-game losing streak but also provide a much-needed confidence boost as they navigate a challenging USFL Conference. For Arlington, a triumph would be a momentous occasion, validating the hard work and dedication the team has put in despite the adversity they have faced.

With both teams desperate for a win and eager to prove themselves, fans can expect a hard-fought battle filled with intensity and emotion. Will the Showboats find a way to get back on track, or will the Renegades finally break through and secure their first victory of the season?

Tune in to ESPN on Saturday, May 11, at 1:00 PM ET to witness this compelling UFL matchup and find out which team will emerge victorious in the battle of the winless. In a league where every game matters, the Showboats and Renegades will leave it all on the field in their pursuit of a much-needed Week 7 victory.