The Houston Roughnecks (4-1) come to the nation’s capital to face the D.C. Defenders (5-0) on Monday at 7 p.m. ET at Audi Field (ESPN2). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Roughnecks vs. Defenders odds, and make our expert XFL picks, predictions and bets.
The Defenders are the last undefeated team in the XFL and they are taking on a Houston teams that’s best in the South Division.
The Roughnecks lost for the 1st time this season last week, 21-14 to the Seattle Sea Dragons. Houston forced 4 turnovers, but was held scoreless until the 4th quarter.
The Defenders beat the St. Louis Battlehawks 28-20 behind a solid run game. While QB Jordan Ta’amu did not throw a TD, RB Abram Smith ran for 3 scores.
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Roughnecks at Defenders odds
Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday at 6:45 p.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Roughnecks +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Defenders -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Roughnecks +2.5 (-110) | Defenders -2.5 (-110)
- Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)
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Roughnecks vs. Defenders picks and predictions
Prediction
Roughnecks 18, Defenders 15
Moneyline
The Roughnecks are a TD machine, leading the league with 18 scores, 4 more than the Defenders. Where they really get you is from the deep ball. The Roughnecks have 7 passes of at least 40 yards, and no other team has more than 3; the Defenders have 1.
LEAN ROUGHNECKS +125.
Against the spread
Both of these teams not only win but cover as well. Last week’s loss was the only time Houston did not cover and D.C. is 5-0 ATS. Since I am riding Houston, you can bet BET ROUGHNECKS +2.5 (-110), although the moneyline is a better value.
Over/Under
The Roughnecks and Defenders are 1-2 in interceptions and 1-2 in the number of kickoff returns per game. I expect field goals, but not touchdowns.
LEAN UNDER 42.5 (-110).
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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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