USFL Championship: Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Birmingham Stallions odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Birmingham Stallions odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Pittsburgh Maulers (5-6) meet the Birmingham Stallions (9-2) Saturday in the USFL Championship at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET (NBC). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Maulers vs. Stallions odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Maulers snuck into the playoffs with a berth in the final week. Pittsburgh made the most of the opportunity, posting a 31-27 overtime win over the Michigan Panthers at this very same venue last Saturday. The 31 points tied a season best.

Pittsburgh’s offense has come alive at the best time, as it is averaging 28.5 points per game (PPG) in the last 2 outings. The Maulers are also on a season-best 3-game win streak, and 4-game cover streak.

Birmingham posted a 47-22 blitzkrieg against the New Orleans Breakers last weekend at Protective Stadium at home. The 47-point total marked a season high, beating the 42 points B-Ham dropped on the Memphis Showboats in Week 2.

The Stallions have won 6 in a row, while going 5-1 against the spread (ATS) during the span. The Over has cashed in each of the last 4 games, too, with Birmingham going for 24 or more points in 6 straight outings, and 20 or more points in all 11 games to date.

Birmingham topped Pittsburgh 24-20 in Week 4 in Canton, as QB Alex McGough struggled that day. The USFL MVP completed 17-of-29 passes for just 157 yards, 1 TD and 2 INT, while running for a team-high 48 yards and a score.

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Maulers vs. Stallions odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 7:24 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maulers +260 (bet $100 to win $260) | Stallions -350 (bet $350 to win $100)
  • Against the spread: Maulers +7.5 (-110) | Stallions -7 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 45.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Maulers vs. Stallions key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Maulers

  • None

Stallions

  • OL Darius Harper (illness) questionable
  • WR Myron Mitchell (hand) out

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Maulers vs. Stallions picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 25, Maulers 19

Moneyline

Birmingham (-350) will cost you 3 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s just too expensive, especially in a championship game. While Pittsburgh (+260) doesn’t have a great record overall, the Maulers have a sturdy defense, and it gave McGough fits in the regular-season matchup back in May.

AVOID.

Against the spread

PITTSBURGH +7.5 (-110) is a solid play, as the defense of the Maulers will keep them in the game. The D picked McGough off twice in the Week 4 matchup, and Pittsburgh’s No. 1 ranked defense gave Birmingham’s No. 1 ranked offense all it could handle. As long as this remains above 7, it is super attractive, while less so if it slips to +6.5.

Birmingham does enter on a 5-1 ATS run, but it failed to cover on this very same field in the first matchup in Week 4, as Pittsburgh covered an 8.5-point number. The Maulers, arguably, are much better on offense than they were in that early-season battle.

Over/Under

UNDER 45.5 (-110) is always a risky proposition when the Stallions are involved, but it has generally been the rule when the Maulers play.

On a total of 43.5 in the Week 4 matchup, we saw 44 combined points, with some bettors cashing the Under depending on when they got their bets in during the week. We should see another lower-scoring game, as the Maulers defense is air-tight. The Stallions have allowed an average of just 19.0 PPG in the past 6 outings, so Birmingham knows how to play a little D, too.

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New Orleans Breakers at Birmingham Stallions odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New Orleans Breakers at Birmingham Stallions USFL playoff odds and lines, with expert USFL picks and predictions.

The USFL South Division championship is Sunday with the New Orleans Breakers (7-3) at  the Birmingham Stallions (8-2). Kickoff is 7 p.m. ET at Protective Stadium in Birmingham (FOX). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Breakers vs. Stallions odds, and make our expert USFL picks and predictions.

The Breakers made the playoffs winning the final 3 games of the regular season after 3 consecutive losses. They closed the regular season with a 17-10 win over the Houston Gamblers as 4-point favorites while the Under (44.5) cashed.

The Stallions enter the postseason riding a 5-game winning streak. They wrapped up the regular season with a 27-20 road win over the Memphis Showboats as 4.5-point favorites while the Over (44) hit.

The teams split their 2 regular-season matchups. The Breakers won in Birmingham 45-31 in Week 3 while the Stallions bounced back with a 24-20 win in Week 7.

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Breakers at Stallions odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:58 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Breakers +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Stallions -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Breakers +3 (-110) | Stallions -3 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 45 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Breakers at Stallions key injuries

(From official team Twitter accounts)

Breakers

  • James Wiggins (shoulder) questionable

Stallions

  • WR Myron Mitchell (hand) out
  • DE Jonathan Newsome (knee) out
  • OL Jahmir Ross-Johnson (shoulder) out

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Breakers at Stallions picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 24, Breakers 20

Moneyline

The Stallions come in riding a 5-game winning streak and have not scored fewer than 24 points in the streak. They have scored at least 20 points every game, finishing the year 1st in yards (332.6 YPG) and points (28.7 PG), 2nd in passing (217.1 YPG) and 3rd in rushing (115.5 YPG).

The Breakers finished 2nd in scoring (23.7 PPG), but scored more than 24 only once in their final 7 games. They were No. 1 in total defense (272.0 YPG) and scoring defense (18.4 PPG), but allowed Birmingham to score 24-plus points in both regular-season matchups.

I like the Stallions to win and the moneyline isn’t a bad bet but the spread is a better value.

PASS.

Against the spread

All 8 of the Stallions’ wins were by at least 3 points while all 3 of the Breakers’ losses were by at least 4 points.

The Stallions have not scored fewer than 24 points over the last 5 weeks and scored at least 27 in 4 of them. The Breakers reached 24 points once over the final 7 weeks.

BET STALLIONS -3 (-110).

Over/Under

The 1st matchup between them in Week 3 had 76 points, but the Week 7 had only 44 total points.

The last 3 games for Birmingham and 4 of the last 6 have had totals of more than 45 points. The Breakers have not had a game reach 45 total points since Week 3 against the Stallions.

BET UNDER 45 (-110).

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Michigan Panthers vs. Pittsburgh Maulers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Michigan Panthers vs. Pittsburgh Maulers odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Michigan Panthers (4-6) meet the Pittsburgh Maulers (4-6) Saturday in North Division Semifinal game Saturday at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Panthers vs. Maulers odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Panthers snuck into the postseason with a 23-20 win over the Philadelphia Stars at Ford Field in Week 10. It was just the team’s 2nd win in the past 8 games, and Michigan is 2-6 against the spread (ATS) during the same span.

While Michigan’s offense has been slightly improved in the past 4 games, averaging 18.8 points per game (PPG), they were the league’s lowest scoring offense with 171 total points, or just 17.1 PPG.

The Maulers enter the postseason with a little more momentum, winning the past 2 games, while covering 3 in a row. That includes a 19-7 win over the Panthers in Week 9 at this very same venue, winning outright as a 1.5-point ‘dog as the Under (41.5) connected.

These teams also met at Ford Field in Week 5, with Pittsburgh coming away with a 23-7 win as a 3.5-point underdog while the Under (42) cashed.

Defense has been the name of the game for Pittsburgh lately, allowing a total of just 13 points in the past 2 games, while cashing the Under in 3 in a row.

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Panthers vs. Maulers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:10 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Panthers +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Maulers -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Against the spread: Panthers +3 (-110) | Maulers -3 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 38 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Panthers vs. Maulers key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Panthers

  • None

Maulers

  • None

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Panthers vs. Maulers picks and predictions

Prediction

Maulers 19, Panthers 13

Moneyline

No matter the sport, no matter the league, etc., it is very difficult to beat the same team 3 times in the same season. That’s exactly what PITTSBURGH (-155) is looking to do, and it’s not a good idea to bet against it.

Pittsburgh outscored Michigan 42-14 in a pair of regular-season meetings, ‘mauling’ the Panthers on defense, while being just adequate on offense. One of the wins was on this very same field just 2 weeks ago.

Against the spread

PITTSBURGH -3 (-110) is actually tied as the hottest team against the number of any playoff team, covering 3 in a row. New Orleans also enters the postseason on a 3-0 ATS run. This number came down from 3.5, making it a little more attractive.

On the flip side, Michigan +3 (-110) beat a very damaged Philadelphia side last week, but it is just 2-6 SU/ATS in the past 8 outings, including 2 outright losses and non-covers against the Maulers.

Over/Under

UNDER 38 (-110) might be the best play on the board. I’d play this down to as low as 37.

The Maulers defense has been air tight in the past 2 games, and it has conceded just 14 total points in 2 regular-season meetings against the Panthers. It’s unlikely Michigan suddenly comes alive and rolls up huge yardage and points on Pittsburgh.

And the Maulers are 7th in the USFL in scoring offense, averaging just 17.7 PPG, so they’re not exactly going to light the world afire, either. This should be a defensive slog, with the Maulers eventually punching their ticket to the title game.

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Philadelphia Stars at Michigan Panthers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Philadelphia Stars at Michigan Panthers odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (4-5) meet the Michigan Panthers (3-6) Sunday in a key Week 10 USFL North Division game at Ford Field in Detroit. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Stars vs. Panthers odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars can wrap up the North Division title with a victory over the Panthers.

Philadelphia suffered a 24-10 setback against Michigan back in Week 2 as a 3-point favorite as the Under (46.5) connected. The game was played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, the site of next weekend’s North Division championship playoff game.

The Stars saw a 4-0 against the spread (ATS) run end last week in Canton against the New Jersey Generals in a 37-33 loss. The Stars have dropped back-to-back games after a 3-game win streak.

The Panthers were humbled 19-7 by the Pittsburgh Maulers, who clinched a playoff spot with a victory on Saturday. Michigan has dropped 6 of the past 7 games, while also going 1-6 ATS, after opening 2-0 SU/ATS.

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Stars at Panthers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:10 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Stars -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Panthers -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread: Stars PK (-110) | Panthers PK (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Stars at Panthers key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Stars

  • TE Ryan Izzo (hamstring) out

Panthers

  • DB Corrion Ballard (hamstring) doubtful
  • LB Noah Dawkins (foot) questionable
  • TE Cole Hikutini (quadriceps) questionable
  • OL Sean Pollard (illness) questionable

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Stars at Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 26, Panthers 22

Moneyline

PHILADELPHIA PK (-110) is worth a look straight up in Week 10, as it has been the most powerful offense in the North Division. It is the highest-scoring team with 200 points. Unfortunately, it’s the defensive troubles which have held it back, allowing 235 points, most in the USFL.

The Stars piled up 333 total yards of offense, but they allowed 365 yards to the Generals, a team out of the playoff hunt. That’s concerning. In fact, New Jersey rolled up 7.0 yards per offensive play, while cashing in for 3 red-zone TDs. And while Philly was impressive on offense, as per usual, it put the ball on the ground 3 times for a minus-3 turnover differential. That can’t happen in a key game with its playoff lives at stake.

Michigan PK (-110) just doesn’t have the offensive horses to hang with the Stars in a track meet, as the Panthers have a USFL-low 148 points. The D has allowed 195 points, which ranks 5th overall in the league.

Against the spread

There is no difference playing the moneyline or the spread at the time of publishing.

Over/Under

OVER 42.5 (-110) is a super low total with the way the Stars have moved the ball up and down the field, and with the way its defense leaks oil.

While, yes, we saw just a total of 34 points in the Week 2 meeting, a lot has changed since then. Philadelphia can score with the best of them, and it cannot stop anyone. Even the Michigan offense should be able to move the ball at will.

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New Orleans Breakers vs. Houston Gamblers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New Orleans Breakers vs. Houston Gamblers Week 10 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The final week of the USFL regular season continues Sunday with the New Orleans Breakers (6-3) facing the Houston Gamblers (5-3). Kickoff is 4 p.m. ET at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis. (FS1). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Breakers vs. Gamblers odds, and make our expert USFL picks and predictions.

The Breakers knocked off the Memphis Showboats 31-3 last week in a pick’em matchup. The Under (42.5) hit in the game. It was the Breakers’ 2nd  straight win after losing 3 in a row.

The Gamblers suffered a 38-15 loss to the Birmingham Stallions, failing to cover the 3.5-point spread as underdogs. They have lost 2 of their last 3 games.

These teams met in Week 2, with the Breakers winning 38-31.

The Breakers will clinch a playoff spot with a win, eliminating the Gamblers. If the Gamblers win, tiebreakers come into play.

If the Philadelphia Stars beat the Michigan Panthers in the late Sunday game, the Gamblers make the postseason on a strength of victory tiebreaker. If Michigan wins, the Breakers make it on point differential.

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Breakers vs. Gamblers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:55 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Breakers -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Gamblers +145 (bet $100 to win $145)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Breakers -4 (-110) | Gamblers +4 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Breakers vs. Gamblers key injuries

(From official team Twitter accounts)

Breakers

  • LB Shaheed Salmon (shoulder) out
  • DE Justus Reed (knee) out

Gamblers

  • OL Tyler Higby (back) questionable
  • TE Rodell Rahmaan (hamstring) questionable

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Breakers vs. Gamblers picks and predictions

Prediction

Breakers 27, Gamblers 16

Moneyline

The Breakers averaged 33.3 points per game in their 1st 4 games this season, all wins, but then scored only 10 points in each of their next 2 games. They have since averaged 25.0 points per game over their last 3 again.

Meanwhile, the Gamblers have not scored more than 20 points in their last 4 games.

The Breakers won the first matchup and are playing better than Houston, but the moneyline is too pricey to bet.

PASS.

Against the spread

Five of the Breakers’ 6 wins this season have been by at least 4 points. Three of the Gamblers’ 4 losses have been by at least 7 points. They are 1-4 when their opponents score more than 20 points.

BET BREAKERS -4 (-110).

Over/Under

The Breakers have not had a game reach 45 total points since Week 3. Five of the Gamblers’ 9 games have had totals of 45 or more, but 3 out of the last 4 games have not reached 45.

BET UNDER 44.5 (-110).

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Birmingham Stallions at Memphis Showboats odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Birmingham Stallions at Memphis Showboats odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Birmingham Stallions (7-2) meet the Memphis Showboats (5-4) Saturday in a key Week 10 USFL South Division game at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Stallions vs. Showboats odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stallions were the first USFL team to clinch a playoff spot last weekend, but Birmingham is still playing to secure the South Division title. It can do so with a victory, or a loss and a setback by the New Orleans Breakers against the Houston Gamblers Sunday, also in Memphis.

Birmingham has rattled off 4 consecutive victories, while going 3-1 against the spread (ATS) during the span. During the win streak, the Stallions have scored 24 or more points, averaging 29.0 PPG. On the flip side, B-Ham has allowed just 18.0 PPG during the stretch.

The Showboats had won 5 in a row, while covering 6 straight outings before Week 9. However, the Boats were humbled 31-3 by the aforementioned Breakers, taking the possibility of a division title off the table. However, Memphis is still alive for a postseason spot, albeit now a very, very unlikely situation due to tiebreakers, point differential, etc.

These teams met back in Week 2, and the Stallions roughed up the Showboats 42-2 in the most lopsided game of the season at Protective Stadium in Alabama.

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Stallions at Showboats odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:20 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Stallions -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Showboats +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
  • Against the spread: Stallions -4.5 (-110) | Showboats +4.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 44 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Stallions at Showboats key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Stallions

  • OL Jahmir Johnson (shoulder) out
  • DL Jonathan Newsome (knee) out

Showboats

  • LB Aaron Hansford (ribs) questionable
  • LB Jeff McCulloch (foot) questionable
  • OL Jordan McCray (leg) out
  • OL Lukayus McNeil (knee) out
  • DB Quenton Meeks (ankle) out
  • S Antonio Reed (wrist) out
  • RB Kerrith Whyte (ankle) out
  • S Kyree Woods (concussion) out

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Stallions at Showboats picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 29, Showboats 18

Moneyline

Birmingham (-190) is a little too expensive at this price, costing you 2 times your potential return. My personal limit for a singular moneyline wager is -180.

It’s probably a good bet, as the Stallions will saddle up and give it their all with a division title on the line. But the Boats are also desperate to keep their faint playoff hopes alive, and it’s a certainty they’ll have a better showing than Week 2.

PASS.

Against the spread

BIRMINGHAM -4.5 (-110) has the best record in the USFL, and with 260 points this is easily the best scoring offense, with the Breakers a distant 2nd with 220.

Memphis +4.5 (-110) is trying to keep its flickering postseason hopes alive, but after a 28-point beatdown at the hands of the Breakers, it was also desperate in a key South Division game last week and Memphis failed to show up.

Look for the Stallions to roll to a victory, even playing on the road on the banks of the Mississippi River in Memphis.

Over/Under

OVER 44 (-110) looks like a good bet based upon Birmingham’s high-octane offense. The Over is 5-2 in the past 7 games for the Stallions, too, and B-Ham has posted 20 or points in all 9 outings, with 27 or more points in 6 of the contests.

However, the Under cashed in the Week 2 meeting, and the Under has been the rule for the Showboats. The Under has cashed in 6 straight games for Memphis, which is the longest Under run of the entire season, too.

Still, I think Birmingham has tremendous offense, and it dropped 42 on Memphis earlier in the season. While the Boats defense is much better than that first showing, the offense will also do a lot more than Week 2. Memphis has scored 22 or more points in 6 of 9 games this season. A total in the high 40’s or 50’s is expected.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Pittsburgh Maulers vs. New Jersey Generals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Pittsburgh Maulers vs. New Jersey Generals Week 10 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The final week of the USFL regular season begins Saturday with the Pittsburgh Maulers (3-6) taking on the New Jersey Generals (3-6). Kickoff from Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, is set for 1 p.m. ET (USA Network). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Maulers vs. Generals odds, and make our expert USFL picks and predictions.

According to the USFL website, the winner of this game will make the playoffs. If the 1st-place Philadelphia Stars (4-5) lose to the Michigan Panthers (3-6) Sunday, the winner of the Pittsburgh-New Jersey game will be crowned North Division champions and will play the winner of the Philly-Michigan game in the playoffs.

The Maulers snapped a 3-game losing streak last week with a 19-7 win over the Michigan Panthers. They covered the spread as 1.5-point underdogs and the Under (41.5) hit in the victory.

The Generals snapped a 5-game skid with a 37-33 upset win over the Philadelphia Stars. They were 2.5-point underdogs and the total blew past the 43.5-point Over line.

Pittsburgh and New Jersey met in Week 2 with the Generals picking up a 20-3 win.

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Maulers vs. Generals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:53 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maulers +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Generals -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Maulers +3.5 (-110) | Generals -3.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 40.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Maulers vs. Generals key injuries

(From official team Twitter accounts)

Maulers

  • None

Generals

  • DL Tyshun Render (toe) out

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Maulers vs. Generals picks and predictions

Prediction

Generals 21, Maulers 17

Moneyline

The Maulers have the 2nd-lowest scoring offense in the league, averaging only 16.8 points per game. They have failed to score 21 points or more 6 times, including a shutout in Week 6 and the 3-point showing against the Generals in Week 2.

The Generals averaged 17.2 points per game during their 5-game losing streak.

The Maulers have picked off 11 passes, but the Generals have only thrown 4.

The Maulers have not won consecutive games yet this season, while the Generals did in Weeks 2-3.

I lean Generals here but prefer the spread for the wager.

PASS.

Against the spread

All 3 of the Generals’ wins this season have been by at least 4 points.

Five of the Maulers’ 6 losses have been by at least 4 points.

BET GENERALS -3.5 (-110).

Over/Under

Seven of the Maulers’ 9 games this season have not reached 40 total points.

The Generals’ last 3 games have had at least 41 total points, but when these two met in Week 2, they combined for only 23 points.

Pittsburgh is 2-7 O/U on the season, while New Jersey is 3-6 O/U.

BET UNDER 40.5 (-110).

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Birmingham Stallions vs. Houston Gamblers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Birmingham Stallions vs. Houston Gamblers Week 9 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

Sunday’s USFL schedule for Week 9 begins with the Birmingham Stallions (6-2) taking on the Houston Gamblers (5-3). Kickoff is 1 p.m. ET at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tenn. (NBC). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Stallions vs. Gamblers odds, and make our expert USFL picks and predictions.

The Stallions have won 3 straight games, including a 27-24 win over the Philadephia Stars last week, although they failed to cover the 6-point spread.

The Gamblers have won 5 of their last 6 games, but nearly lost last week. They beat the Maulers 20-19 as Pittsburgh missed a 41-yard potential game-winning FG with under 2 minutes remaining in the game. The Gamblers failed to cover the 3-point spread as favorites.

Houston beat Birmingham 27-20 in Week 5 covering as a 4.5-point favorite as the Over 46.5 hit.

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Stallions vs. Gamblers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:50 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Stallions -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Gamblers +145 (bet $100 to win $145)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Stallions -3.5 (-110) | Gamblers +3.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 45.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Stallions vs. Gamblers key injuries

(From official team Twitter accounts)

Stallions

  • DE Joe Jackson (infection) out

Gamblers

  • DT Jeffery Johnson (hand) out
  • OL Jordan Steckler (hamstring) questionable
  • LB Reggie Walker (ribs) questionable

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Stallions vs. Gamblers picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 27, Gamblers 23

Moneyline

The Stallions have won 3 straight games. They have scored at least 24 points in all but 1 game this season and at least 27 in all but 2. Their season-low was 20 points in their loss to the Gamblers in Week 5.

The Gamblers have won 5 of their last 6 games, but have not scored more than 20 points in the last 3 weeks.

After averaging 28.4 points per game in their 1st 5 games, they have scored only 18.7 per game over their last 3.

Expect the Stallions to avenge their earlier loss to the Gamblers, but the spread gives you a better value.

PASS.

Against the spread

Five of the Stallions’ 6 wins have been by at least 4 points. They are 4-4 ATS this season while the Gamblers are 3-5 ATS overall. Houston is 3-1 straight up and ATS as underdogs this season. But their recent reduced offensive production suggests they will not be able to keep up with Birmingham.

BET STALLIONS -3.5 (-110).

Over/Under

After the Over was 5-0 in the Gamblers’ first 5 games, the Under has hit in each of the last 3. Three of the Stallions’ games this season have had at least 46 points. The Gamblers have not had a game reach 46 points since their Week 5 meeting with the Stallions.

BET OVER 45.5 (-110).

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Philadelphia Stars vs. New Jersey Generals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. New Jersey Generals odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (4-4) meet the New Jersey Generals (2-6) Sunday in a Week 9 USFL game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET (FOX). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Stars vs. Generals odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars suffered a 27-24 setback in Birmingham last week against the Stallions, halting a 3-game straight up (SU) win streak. However, the Stars have posted an impressive 4-0 against the spread (ATS) run, the 2nd-best active streak in the USFL after the Memphis Showboats saw a 6-0 ATS run end Saturday.

The Generals started off at 2-1 SU/ATS this season, but New Jersey is in freefall since Week 4, going 0-5 SU/ATS. The defense was a strength early on, but the Gens have allowed 24 or more points in 3 of the last 5 games.

These teams met in Detroit in Week 5, and the Stars picked up a 24-21 victory, winning outright as a 6.5-point underdog to kick off their current 4-0 ATS run. The Over (43.5) narrowly came through in that game, too, kicking off a 4-1 streak.

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Stars vs. Generals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:25 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Stars -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Generals +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
  • Against the spread: Stars -2.5 (-105) | Generals +2.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 43.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Stars vs. Generals key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Stars

  • LB BJ Bello (groin) out
  • OL Tristen Taylor (ankle) out

Generals

  • DL Tyshun Render (toe) out

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Stars vs. Generals picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 27, Generals 19

Moneyline

PHILADELPHIA (-135) is an amazing value at this price point, especially if you don’t want to fiddle around with the points.

The Stars are the best of the lot in the North Division, and Philly disposed of New Jersey (+115) in the first meeting in Detroit by a 24-21 score. That loss really seemed to kick the Gens into a tailspin. New Jersey has lost 5 straight overall, including 2 of 3 games by 6 or more points since Philadelphia took the wind out of its sails.

Against the spread

PHILADELPHIA -2.5 (-105) is a strong value in this rematch. It won by 3 points in the 1st meeting, and Philly has won 2 of the last 3 games by 6 or more points, covering 4 straight outings. The Stars have the longest current cover streak in the USFL, and it isn’t ending in Canton on Sunday night.

Over/Under

OVER 43.5 (-110) is the lean, but go lightly. This is a big number with the Generals struggling on offense lately.

The Generals have managed just 16.0 PPG in the last 3 outings, which should give Over bettors pause. However, Jersey has also allowed 24 or more points in 3 of the last 5 outings, including 25.0 PPG in the last 2 contests.

The Stars defense has coughed up 29.0 PPG in the last 2 games, so we should see some decent fireworks in the USFL Week 9 finale.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and us on Facebook.

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New Orleans Breakers at Memphis Showboats odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Michigan Panthers vs. New Jersey Generals odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Orleans Breakers (5-3) meet the Memphis Showboats (5-3) Saturday in a key Week 9 USFL South Division game at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Breakers vs. Showboats odds, and make our expert USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Breakers snapped a 3-game losing streak with a 24-20 win on a neutral field in Birmingham over the Michigan Panthers last weekend.

New Orleans narrowly covered a 3-point spread in Week 8, too, halting an 0-3 run against the spread (ATS). The Over (43.5) also cashed narrowly, by just a half-point, stopping a 4-0 Under run for New Orleans.

The Showboats struggled out of the gate, going 0-3 to start the season. However, they have pushed themselves back into the playoff picture in the South Division with 5 consecutive wins and 6 straight covers.

Defense has been a huge reason for the turnaround as Memphis allowed 33.0 points per game (PPG) in the opening 3 losses, and just 11.2 PPG since. The Under has cashed in 5 in a row for the Boats.

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Breakers at Showboats odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:21 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Breakers -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Showboats -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
  • Against the spread: Breakers pk (-105) | Showboats pk (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Breakers at Showboats key injuries

(From official team Twitter pages)

Breakers

  • DB Nevelle Clarke (knee) questionable
  • DE Justus Reed (knee) out

Showboats

  • DT Frank Herron (knee) out
  • LB Jeff McCulloch (foot) out
  • OL Lukayus McNeil (knee) out
  • DB Quenton Meeks (ankle) out
  • DB Kyree Woods (concussion) out

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Breakers at Showboats picks and predictions

Prediction

Showboats 19, Breakers 16

Moneyline

MEMPHIS (-115) is the play at the Liberty Bowl Saturday afternoon as this Showboats team is really steaming along. The defense has been tremendous lately, and the offense has been good for 22 or more points in 5 of the past 6 outings.

New Orleans barely scraped by a poor Michigan team last weekend, and it suffered a 17-10 loss against these ‘Boats in Birmingham in Week 5. With the Showboats at home, the pro-Memphis crowd should get the Showboats enough energy for a 2nd straight win in as many tries against the Breakers.

Against the spread

MEMPHIS (-115) is a pick ’em, and there is no difference playing the moneyline or the spread in this particular matchup.

Over/Under

UNDER 42.5 (-110) might be my favorite play on the board.

The defenses for both of these teams have been stout lately, with New Orleans allowing 20 or fewer points in 4 of the past 5, including the first meeting with Memphis. The Memphis D has yielded just 56 total points in the past 5 games, unsurprisingly cashing the Under in each of the outings.

We had a total of just 27 points in the first matchup in Week 5 in Birmingham. Expect another defensive slog.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and us on Facebook.

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