Memphis Showboats quarterback Case Cookus in a UFL week 1 game against the Houston Roughnecks.
In their opening game of the 2024 UFL season, the Memphis Showboats jumped out to an early lead, and then held off the Houston Roughnecks 18-12 on Sunday March 31, 2024, afternoon at Rice Stadium in Houston, TX.
“It’s good to get the first one out of the way,” Showboats quarterback Case Cookus said. “Looking back after watching the game now there’s a few plays we want back, across the board.”
Cookus led a Showboats win by completing 23 passes on 40 attempts for one touchdown, and one interception. He also rushed 4 times for 16 yards. Overall, a solid performance, and good enough for the win against the struggling Roughnecks. Cookus admits he is proud of his performance, but he also gave credit to his teammates for the way they performed.
In the week 1 game, the Houston Roughnecks tried to change things up on defense in the second have to thwart the Showboats attack. However, Cookus pointed out they were well prepared for such a scenario.
“Coach DeFilippo has done a great job of preparing us for every coverage,” Cookus noted. “It’s something that, as we get through the season, we’re going to do a better job each week at adjusting to what a team is going to give us.”
With such a short campaign that did not feature any pre-season games, it appears the Showboats were better prepared than their opponent in week 1. This bodes well for the Showboats in such a competitive league.
“I expect our team to just continue to get better and better each week,” Cookus said.
In week two of the Showboats schedule, the team is headed to Memphis for a home game. Cookus is excited to be able to play in front of a home crowd.
“The last two years, the Stars (Philadelphia) haven’t had a home fan base to play in front of, so I’m really excited to have a home fan base and be a part of that community,” Cookus said. “You know, play for something more than just the team — we’re playing for the city of Memphis.”
“It’s just exciting to be able to play in front of them,” Cookus added. “We don’t get to spend too much time in Memphis. But, I know we’ll be there a little early and be able to check out the city a little bit and learn more about it.”
Folks in the Bluff City should be on the lookout for Case Cookus and the Showboats gang arriving in town later this week. Be sure to look out for the squad, and show them southern hospitality.
The Memphis Showboats take on the visiting San Antonio Brahmas at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium on Saturday, April 6 at 11:00 PM Central (12:00 PM ET) (ESPN). Very affordable tickets are available at Ticketmaster and Stubhub.
