Houston Roughnecks look to put on show vs. Memphis Showboats in 1st game of newly formed UFL

The Houston Roughnecks are set to make their debut in the inaugural season of the United Football League (UFL) as they face off against the Memphis Showboats on Sunday afternoon.

Leading the charge for the Roughnecks is head coach Curtis “CJ” Johnson, a seasoned coach with over four decades of experience in football at both collegiate and professional levels, having worked with NFL teams such as the Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints.

Former Tennessee and Washington State quarterback, Jarrett Guarantano, has been named as the starting quarterback for Week 1. The 26-year-old signed with the USGFL’s Houston Gamblers in December 2023 before the team transitioned into the UFL’s Roughnecks.

With a new coach, quarterback, and team, Houston aims to make a strong impression as spring football kicks off in the UFL.

The Roughnecks’ matchup against the Showboats will be broadcasted on ESPN, airing at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Here’s a look at the Roughnecks’ 2024 season schedule:

– Week 1: Memphis Showboats at Houston Roughnecks, Sunday, March 31, 2 p.m. on ESPN
– Week 2: Houston Roughnecks at D.C. Defenders, Sunday, April 7, 3 p.m.
– Week 3: Houston Roughnecks at Michigan Panthers, Sunday, April 14, 11 a.m. on
– Week 4: Arlington Renegades at Houston Roughnecks, Sunday, April 21, 1 p.m.
– Week 5: Birmingham Stallions at Houston Roughnecks, Saturday, April 27, 6 p.m.
– Week 6: Houston Roughnecks at St. Louis Battlehawks, Saturday, May 4, 2 p.m.
– Week 7: San Antonio Brahmas at Houston Roughnecks, Sunday, May 12, 2 p.m. on ESPN
– Week 8: Houston Roughnecks at Birmingham Stallions, Saturday, May 18, 7 p.m. on ESPN2
– Week 9: Michigan Panthers at Houston Roughnecks, Sunday, May 26, 1:30 p.m.
– Week 10: Houston Roughnecks at Memphis Showboats, Sunday, June 2, 6 p.m.