The Orlando Guardians visit the Houston Roughnecks Saturday on the opening day of the 2023 XFL season. Kickoff from TDECU Stadium is at 8:30 p.m. ET (FX/ESPN). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Roughnecks odds, and make our expert XFL picks, predictions and bets.
The Guardians are led by coach Terrell Buckley and have one of the league’s most notable starting quarterbacks in Paxton Lynch. Lynch was a 1st-round pick of the Denver Broncos in 2016 but struggled in the NFL and did not impress with the Michigan Panthers of the USFL last year.
The Roughnecks were a perfect 5-0 in 2020 before the XFL shut down. They are led by legendary coach Wade Phillips, who made a name in the NFL for his defenses. QB Brandon Silvers is the starter for Houston.
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Guardians at Roughnecks odds
Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:25 a.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Guardians +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Roughnecks -170 (bet $170 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Guardians +3.5 (-112) | Roughnecks -3.5 (-108)
- Over/Under (O/U): 35.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)
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Guardians at Roughnecks picks and predictions
Prediction
Roughnecks 20, Guardians 13
Money line
Lynch has NFL experience but Phillips’ proven defensive scheme should be difficult to overcome in a season opener on the road. It is more likely the defenses are ahead of the offenses this early in the season.
Plus, Phillips’ vast experience as a successful NFL coach will help him keep things cool in an emotional opener.
However, with the line where it is, it is not a good bet value-wise to take Houston (-170) on the moneyline with such little information on how things will actually play out. PASS.
Against the spread
Can the Roughnecks win by more than a field goal?
It is the beginning of a league reboot and teams have not been together long. Houston has the coaching experience advantage and is at home.
We will know more about both teams once games are played, but to start things off, BET ROUGHNECKS -3.5 (-108).
Over/Under
Teams will likely look rough. Offenses will probably be a little off with their timing and Phillips’ defenses are always good.
I don’t expect a lot of points in this game.
BET UNDER 35.5 (-115).
If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access more content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.
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