WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 12, 2024) – Behind a dominant performance from their rushing attack, the Michigan Panthers extended their winning streak to three games with a 22-9 victory over the DC Defenders on Mother’s Day at Audi Field.

It was running back Matthew Colburn II who stole the show, rumbling for 137 yards on 16 carries – both team highs this season. His 107 first-half yards helped stake the Panthers to an early lead they never relinquished.

“Our offensive line got after it today and Matthew took advantage,” said Panthers head coach Jeff Fisher. “When we can control the line of scrimmage like that, we’re tough to beat.”

Michigan jumped out to a 13-0 lead in the first quarter on touchdown runs by Brian Lewerke and Wes Hills. The Defenders briefly made it a one-score game on Jordan Ta’amu’s 70-yard scoring strike to Ty Scott, but the Panthers responded with three Jake Bates field goals to take a 19-6 halftime lead.

Bates, who is garnering NFL interest, went 3-for-3 on the day with a long of 51 yards to account for 9 of Michigan’s 22 points. His 40-yard field goal midway through the third quarter extended the lead to 22-6.

“Kicking is such a mental game, and Jake has that mindset locked in right now,” said Fisher. “He’s been automatic for us.”

The Panthers’ swarming defense, led by Breeland Speaks’ 5.5 sacks on the season, stifled the Defenders the rest of the way. DC managed just a late Matt McCrane field goal as their offensive struggles continued.

Ta’amu exited the game with an injury after taking a big hit from Speaks, forcing backup Jalan McClendon into action. The two combined to go 19-of-28 for 200 yards, with Scott’s 87 yards and touchdown being the lone bright spot.

With the loss, the Defenders fell to 3-4 on the year heading into a road matchup with the 5-2 St. Louis Battlehawks next Sunday. The Panthers, now 5-2 themselves, return home to host the 1-6 Memphis Showboats.

“We’re starting to put it all together,” said Fisher. “If we keep playing complimentary football like this, we’ll be tough to beat down the stretch.”