Michigan Panthers Clinch USFL Conference Championship Berth with 30-18 Win Over Houston

The Michigan Panthers secured their spot in the USFL Conference Championship for the second consecutive season with a 30-18 victory over the Houston Roughnecks. Backup quarterback Danny Etling, starting for the first time since Week 3 due to an injury to Bryce Perkins, threw three touchdown passes and completed 14 of 22 passes for 167 yards. Cornerback Keni-H Lovely contributed a pivotal 55-yard interception return for a touchdown, helping the Panthers extend their lead in the third quarter. Michigan's special teams also made a significant impact with Xavier Malone returning a punt 88 yards to Houston’s one-yard line, the longest punt return in USFL history. Despite being outgained in total yards by Houston, Michigan capitalized on turnovers and timely plays to control the game and improve their record to 6-2. This win sets up a conference championship rematch against the Birmingham Stallions, who also clinched a playoff berth, with the championship game scheduled for June 8 at Protective Stadium.