Week 2 of the 2023 season continues Saturday as the D.C. Defenders (1-0) are on the road for the first time this season to face the Vegas Vipers (0-1). Kickoff is Saturday at 7 p.m. ET at Cashman Field (ESPN, FX). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Defenders vs. Vipers odds, and make our expert XFL picks, predictions and bets.
The Defenders picked up a 22-18 Week 1 home win over the the Seattle Sea Dragons as 2.5-point underdogs. They forced 4 turnovers in the win.
The Vipers lost their opener 22-20 to the Arlington Renegades despite having a 14-3 lead in the first half. They were 3.5-point underdogs. They threw 2 pick-6es in the game.
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Defenders at Vipers odds
Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:30 a.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Defenders +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Vipers -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Defenders +3.5 (-115) | Vipers -3.5 (-105)
- Over/Under (O/U): 34.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)
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Defenders at Vipers key injuries
Defenders
- DE Fadol Brown (hamstring) out
- C Mike Maietti (leg) out
Vipers
- DE Vic Beasley (concussion) questionable
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Defenders at Vipers picks and predictions
Prediction
Defenders 23, Vipers 19
Money line
After forcing 4 turnovers in the season opener, I like them to pick up an upset win. The Vipers had the Renegades score 2 defensive touchdowns against them. Vegas could also be without arguably its best player in pass-rusher Vic Beasley (concussion).
BET DEFENDERS (+145).
Against the spread
Both teams are 1-0 ATS after one week of play.
This is the bet to take if you like the Vipers to win and cover. However, believing in Gregg Williams’ defensive scheme and seeing that they took the ball away so many times in the opener, it is better to go with the moneyline for the positive odds.
PASS.
Over/Under
Both teams had their opener go Over the projected total last week.
In fact, 3 of the 4 games in the league in Week 1 had at least 40 points.
BET OVER 34.5 (-115).
If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Plus, try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.
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