USFL betting odds lines picks predictions best bets – Page 7

New Orleans Breakers vs. New Jersey Generals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s New Orleans Breakers vs. New Jersey Week 5 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Orleans Breakers (3-1) take on the New Jersey Generals (3-1) when Week 5 of the USFL schedule continues Saturday. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. ET at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Breakers vs. Generals odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Breakers bounced back from their 1st loss of the season 2 weeks ago with a 23-16 overtime win over the Houston Gamblers in Week 4. They were down 16-13 in the fourth quarter and responded with 10 points, including a game-winning touchdown pass from QB Kyle Sloter to WR Jonathan Adams.

The Generals have won 3 games in a row after a season-opening loss to the Birmingham Stallions. They beat the Pittsburgh Maulers 21-13 last week.

Breakers vs. Generals odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:55 a.m. ET.

Money line: Breakers -165 (bet $165 to win $100) | Generals +133 (bet $100 to win $133)
Against the spread (ATS): Breakers -3 (-110) | Generals +3 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 37 (O: -112 | U: -108)

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Breakers vs. Generals key injuries

Breakers

DE David Bellamy (groin) questionable
CB Nevelle Clark (hamstring) questionable
S Dartez Jacobs (head) questionable
DE Shareef Miller (hamstring) questionable

Generals

OL Mike Brown (calf) questionable
TE Braedon Bowman (quad) out
CB Trae Elston (quad) questionable
OL Garrett McGhin (triceps) questionable
WR Darrius Shepard (hamstring) questionable
CB Christian Tutt (knee, ankle) questionable

Breakers vs. Generals picks and predictions

Prediction

Breakers 23, General 16

Money line

The Generals are the hotter team right now, having gone 3-0 since their season-opening loss. They lead the USFL in rushing at 178.3 yards per game as a team and Sloter has the most passing yards in the league.

Take the BREAKERS (-165).

Against the spread

The Breakers have won all their games by at least 4 points.

Leaguewide, all but 2 games this season have been decided by 3 or more points.

So it will come down to whether or not the Breakers win. The games leading up to this one suggest that we can expect the winning team to also cover the spread.

Take the BREAKERS -3 (-110).

Over/Under

The Breakers and the Generals are the 2 teams to allow the fewest points from their opponents. The Breakers only 58 and the Generals 63.

Four of the last 6 games across the league have gone Over the projected total.

In this game, despite both teams are stingy with allowing points, take OVER -37 (-112).

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

Analyzing Sunday’s Houston Gamblers vs. New Orleans Breakers Week 4 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Houston Gamblers (1-2) hope to snap a 2-game losing streak Sunday as they face the New Orleans Breakers (2-1). Kickoff for the USFL Week 4 matchup is Sunday 3 p.m. ET at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, where all the league’s games are being played this season. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Gamblers vs. Breakers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Gamblers, after a season-opening 17-12 win, have dropped their last 2 games. They lost 33-28 to the undefeated Birmingham Stallions and then suffered a 27-26 loss to the Tampa Bay Bandits.

The Breakers suffered their first loss of the season last week, a 22-13 defeat to the Stallions. New Orleans had the league’s season-best scoring output 2 games ago with a 34-3 over Tampa Bay.

Gamblers vs. Breakers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:11 a.m. ET.

Money line: Ganblers +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Breakers -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Gamblers +4.5 (-110) | Breakers -4.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 38.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Gamblers vs. Breakers key injuries

Gamblers

QB Kenji Bahar (hand) questionable

Breakers

TE EJ Bibbs (back) probable

Gamblers vs. Breakers picks and predictions

Prediction

Breakers 30, Gamblers 24

Money line

PASS. The Breakers struggled to move the ball against Birmingham, but have been good offensively with QB Kyle Sloter leading the way. Sloter leads the league in passing yards, the only player averaging more than 200 passing yards per game (219.0).

The Gamblers have actually scored 1 more point than the Breakers this season, but allowed 33 and 27 points in the last two weeks. New Orleans will be able to move the ball against them.

The price to bet the Breakers is just too high to be worth it, though. PASS.

Against the spread

The Breakers’ 2 wins have been by at least 6 points while the Gamblers’ 2 losses have been by a combined 6 points.

The question will be whether the Gamblers can keep up with the Breakers’ offense.

Even in the game the Gamblers won and only allowed 12 points, they gave up 2 long drives in the first quarter that had possessions end in the red zone.

Take the BREAKERS -4.5 (-110).

Over/Under

The projected total is low, but only 1 of the Breakers’ games has gone over that total.

The Gamblers also have only 1 game to go over Sunday’s projected total.

These are the 2 teams averaging the most points in the league entering Week 4 and I anticipate some points in this game.

Take OVER 38 (-107).

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Tampa Bay Bandits vs. Birmingham Stallions odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Tampa Bay Bandits vs. Birmingham Stallions Week 4 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Bandits (2-1) face the Birmingham Stallions (3-0) in Week 4 of the USFL schedule. Kickoff is 7 p.m. ET at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Bandits vs. Stallions odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Bandits are coming off a come-from-behind 27-26 win over the Houston Gamblers in Week 3. They scored 10 4th-quarter points and held the Gamblers scoreless in the first frame to get the 1-point win. QB Jordan Ta’amu threw a touchdown pass and rushed for another in the win.

The Stallions have won their first 3 games of the season, benefitting from the only home-field advantage in the league, as every game is played in Birmingham. They defeated the previously unbeaten New Orleans Breakers 22-13 last week. They outscored the Breakers 12-0 in the 4th quarter as they forced 2 turnovers.

Bandits vs. Stallions odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:27 a.m. ET.

Money line: Bandits +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Stallions -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bandits +2 (-110) | Stallions -2 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 38 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Bandits vs. Stallions key injuries

Bandits

DE Mekhi Brown (illness) out
OL Juwann Bushell-Beatty (illness) questionable
CB Christian Campbell (though) questionable
S Stephen Griffin (ankle) out
S Obi Melifonwu (thigh) questionable
LB T.J. Neal (thigh) probable
C Bruno Regan (leg) out

Stallions

TE Cary Angeline (illness) questionable
LB Lorenzo Burns (illness) questionable
QB Montell Cozart (illness) questionable
LB DeMarquis Gates (illness) questionable
DE Chauncy Haney (illness) questionable
LS Terrill Hanks (hamstring) probable
FB Bobby Holly (illness) questionable
QB Alex McGough (ankle) probable
QB J’Mar Smith (illness) questionable
LB Scooby Wright (illness) questionable

Bandits vs. Stallions picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 23, Bandits 17

Money line

The Bandits’ 47 points scored are the second-fewest points in the league despite their 2-1 record.

The Stallions’ 83 points are the second-most in the USFL, trailing only Philadelphia’s 89. Smith leads the league with 5 touchdown passes.

The Stallions have the best turnover plus-minus this season at +3 and they are the one team playing in their home city.

Take the STALLIONS (-165).

Against the spread

The Stallions have not won any of their games by fewer than 4 points. They have increased their margin of victory each week, winning their opener by 4 points, their second game by 5 and last week’s outing by 9.

The Bandits’ one loss was a 34-3 drubbing by the New Orleans Breakers, but they will struggle to keep up with the Stallions’ offense.

Take the STALLIONS -2 (-110).

Over/Under

Last week’s win for the Stallions was the first game that didn’t have over 50 points. It finished with only 35.

The Bandits’ last game had 53 points but their previous high was 37 in total points.

Half of Week 3’s games had more points than tonight’s projected total.

I LEAN OVER 38 (-110).

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Philadelphia Stars vs. Michigan Panthers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. Michigan Panthers Week 4 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (1-2) take on the Michigan Panthers (1-2) Friday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Panthers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars head into this one looking to level their record at 2-2, but that’s going to be a huge challenge. Starting QB Bryan Scott suffered a knee injury last week, and is a huge question mark to play. The Occidental product led the USFL in passing through the first two games before suffering the injury.

Head coach Jeff Fisher’s Panthers broke through for the shutout victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers last weekend, scoring their first win in the reboot. A 24-0 score isn’t exactly an offensive explosion, but the team had just 18 total points in the first two games, so it’s a big sign of improvement.

Stars vs. Panthers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:45 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Panthers -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars +1 (-110) | Panthers -1 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 33.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Stars vs. Panthers key injuries

Stars

WR Brennan Eagles (ankle) out
RB Darnell Holland (hamstring) out
QB Bryan Scott (knee) doubtful

Panthers

WR Jeff Badet (leg) questionable
WR Ray Bolden (illness) questionable

Stars vs. Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Panthers 18, Stars 13

Money line

The PANTHERS (-115) offense did enough to get the job done against the league’s worst team, the Pittsburgh Maulers, and the defense shut the door. Michigan catches a break with the dynamic Scott expected to miss an extended period of time, and former University of Texas standout WR Brennan Eagles also on the shelf.

Against the spread

The PANTHERS -1 (-110) are a better play laying the point, as opposed to the money line play, unless you’re absolutely sure this is going to be a one-point game. Either way, Michigan is the play.

Over/Under

The lean is to the UNDER 33.5 (-112) in this Week 4 battle. Michigan’s defense showed out last weekend against the Maulers, and now it will face a Philadelphia offense missing some key pieces. Michigan will try and wear the Philadelphia D down with a rushing attack that produced 244 yards last weekend. Running the ball runs the clock, which Under bettors love.

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

Analyzing Sunday’s New Jersey Generals vs. Philadelphia Stars Week 3 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Jersey Generals (1-1) face the Philadelphia Stars (1-1) Sunday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Generals vs. Stars odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Generals beat the Michigan Panthers 10-6 in Week 2, following a 28-24 loss to the Birmingham Stallions in their opener.

The Generals are led by QB De’Andre Johnson, who is averaging a team-best 62.5 yards per game on the ground. He’s completed 8 of 14 pass attempts for 107 yards with no touchdowns, while QB Luis Perez is 26 of 37 for 240 yards and 2 TDs.

Philadelphia also struggled out of the gate, losing its opener to the New Orleans Breakers 23-17. But the Stars rebounds with a 30-23 victory against the Pittsburgh Maulers.

The Stars are led by QB Bryan Scott, who owns a league-best 237.0 passing yards per game. He’s thrown 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions so far.

Generals vs. Stars odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:26 p.m. ET.

Money line: Generals +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Stars -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Generals +2.5 (-110) | Stars -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 42 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Generals vs. Stars key injuries

Generals

S Mike Bell Jr. (chest) out
LB Shalom Luani (leg) out
WR J’Mon Moore (hamstring) out
WR Randy Satterfield (hamstring) probable
DE Devon Sizer (chest) questionable
DB Christian Tutt (ankle) questionable
DL Destiny Vaeao (thigh) out

Stars

WR Brennan Eagles (ankle) out
CB Bradley Sylve (Achilles) out

Generals vs. Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 24, Generals 17

Money line

PASS.

Through the first two weeks, there hasn’t been a single USFL game decided by 3 points or less. I’ll prefer the Stars -2.5 spread over their -130 money line here.

Against the spread

BET STARS -2.5 (-110).

This line opened at -1.5, which leads me to indicate there could be some sharp money hitting it and/or some reverse-line movement.

Either way, it’s the better side, and Scott is why. He’s been the most efficient quarterback in the USFL this season.

The Generals will struggle to keep up with Stars QB Scott, who should be able to feast Sunday. New Jersey’s defense ranks third in opponents’ yards per game — thanks in part to facing a horrible Michigan offense in Week 2.

Also, the Generals don’t have much of an offensive identity. They aren’t great at throwing the ball or running it, and their two-quarterback system hasn’t brought much success.

I’ll bank on the STARS -2.5 (-110), who seem to be among the better teams in the league.

Over/Under

LEAN to the UNDER 42 (-110).

This has shot up from 40.5, and it’s confusing as the Generals put up just 10 points last week, struggling to move the ball against a below-average Panthers squad.

I like Scott’s potential, and the Philadelphia defensive line isn’t among the league’s best. Given both teams are 1-1 O/U, this is more of a play against the drastic line movement.

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Birmingham Stallions vs. New Orleans Breakers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Birmingham Stallions vs. New Orleans Breakers Week 3 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Birmingham Stallions (2-0) take on the New Orleans Breakers (2-0) Saturday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stallions vs. Breakers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

After two weeks of USFL action, the Stallions and Breakers are the only undefeated teams in the 8-team league. They are tied atop the South Division.

The Stallions opened with a thrilling 28-24 victory over the New Jersey Generals before eking out a 33-28 win over the Houston Gamblers. QB J’Mar Smith threw for 229 yards and 2 scores, while RB C.J. Marable was good for 96 scrimmage yards and 2 TDs in the Houston win as Birmingham finished with 391 total yards.

The Breakers topped the Philadelphia Stars 23-17 in the opener before putting it on the Tampa Bay Bandits by a 34-3 in Week 2. QB Kyle Sloter threw for 266 yards with 2 TDs against the Bandits, while adding a rushing TD.

Stallions vs. Breakers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:01 p.m. ET.

Money line: Stallions +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Breakers -230 (bet $230 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stallions +5.5 (-110) | Breakers -5.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Stallions vs. Breakers key injuries

Stallions

LB Terrill Hanks (hamstring) out
QB Alex McGough (ankle) probable

Breakers

RB T.J. Logan Jr. (foot) out
WR Shawn Poindexter (thigh) probable
QB Kyle Sloter (hand) probable

Stallions vs. Breakers picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 23, Breakers 21

Money line

The STALLIONS (+180) represent a decent value in this battle of the unbeatens, and hey, they are on their home field, right?

Birmingham has played well this season, putting up points, while it has a nice one-two punch with Smith and Marable. Running the ball is key, and Marable looked good doing so last week.

With both starting quarterbacks listed as probable, go lightly.

Against the spread

The STALLIONS +5.5 (-110) are a fine play catching the points if you’re not feeling them straight up. Whether or not Smith can go for Birmingham, Marable looked good on the ground, and he catch it out of the backfield, too.

Over/Under

The lean is to the UNDER 44.5 (-110) in this showdown.

After both teams scored at least 33 points in Week 2, you might like the Over here, however, both starting signal callers are nursing injuries.

There isn’t as much depth in the USFL to make up for losses. If one or both quarterbacks are out or limited, the points will be seriously curtailed.

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Tampa Bay Bandits vs. Houston Gamblers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Tampa Bay Bandits vs. Houston Gamblers Week 3 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Bandits (1-1) square off against the Houston Gamblers (1-1) Saturday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET )FOX). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Bandits vs. Gamblers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Bandits earned a win and cover in the opener against the Pittsburgh Maulers, but were smacked back to Earth last week in a 34-3 beatdown by Gulf Coast rival New Orleans Breakers.

The Gamblers scratched out an ugly 17-12 victory over the Michigan Panthers in Week 1 before suffering a 33-28 setback against the Birmingham Stallions last weekend in an entertaining affair.

Bandits vs. Gamblers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:15 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bandits -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Gamblers +122 (bet $100 to win $122)
Against the spread (ATS): Bandits -3 (-110) | Gamblers +3 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 38.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Bandits vs. Gamblers key injuries

Bandits

None

Gamblers

QB Kenji Bahar (hand) out
LB Drew Lewis (arm) out
CB Jamar Summers (leg) out

Bandits vs. Gamblers picks and predictions

Prediction

Gamblers 23, Bandits 19

Money line

BET 0.3 UNITS ON THE GAMBLERS (+122).

They have been much more prolific on offense so far than the Bandits. That’s why Houston is the lean here. Tampa looked atrocious last week against New Orleans, getting outgained 374 to 194 in total yards with a minus-3 turnover ratio and just 3.1 yards per play to 5.2 per play for the opposition.

Against the spread

BACK THE GAMBLERS +3 (-110) TO WIN 0.7 UNITS. However, you can divvy up a full unit between this play and the money line wager however you desire.

Over/Under

By USFL standards so far, this game will be a shootout so lean to the OVER 38.5 (-112).

Tampa Bay allowed 374 total yards and 34 points last week, while the Houston defense was trampled for 33 points and 391 total yards. Both offenses should be able to generate plenty Saturday.

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New Orleans Breakers vs. Tampa Bay Bandits odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New Orleans Breakers vs. Tampa Bay Bandits Week 2 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The final game of Week 2 of the USFL season has the New Orleans Breakers (1-0) facing the Tampa Bay Bandits (1-0) Sunday. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (NBC) at Protective Stadium in Birmingham where all games for the USFL season will be played. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Breakers vs. Bandits odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Breakers picked up a season-opening 23-17 victory over the Philadelphia Stars behind a strong running attack. RB Jordan Ellis rushed for 89 yards and the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, while RB T.J. Logan added 56 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

Tampa Bay saw its season opener delayed a day because of weather before defeating the Pittsburgh Maulers 17-3 Monday. The Bandits scored on their opening drive and never gave up the lead.

Breakers vs. Bandits odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:36 a.m. ET.

Money line: Breakers +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | Bandits -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Breakers +2.5 (-110) | Bandits -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 39.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Breakers vs. Bandits key injuries

Breakers

RB Jordan Ellis (foot) probable
DT Shakir Soto (thigh) questionable

Bandits

CB Rannell Hall (thigh) out
DT Daylon Mack (thigh) out

Breakers vs. Bandits picks and predictions

Prediction

Breakers 24, Bandits 20

Money line

The Breakers’ ability to run the ball was the difference in their opening win over Philadelphia. They rushed for 171 yards.

The Bandits won in Week 1 despite QB Jordan Ta’amu’s 2 interceptions.

Expect New Orleans to rely on the ground game again.

TAKE THE BREAKERS (+122).

Against the spread

The Bandits covered the spread as 5.5-point favorites in their 17-3 win over Pittsburgh in Week 1. The 14 points was the biggest margin of victory among all 4 USFL games opening week.

In Week 2, favorites are 1-1-1 ATS out of the first 3 games.

While the money line offers a better payout (1.22 to 1), if you prefer the spread, TAKE THE BREAKERS +2.5 (-110).

Over/Under

Three of the 4 games cashed Under tickets in Week 1. Only one game had more than 40 points.

After Friday’s 10-6 game kicked off Week 2 for another Under winner, both Saturday contests hit the Over with 53 and 61 respective points.

It would appear that teams are beginning to get some offensive rhythm after a slow opening week.

If both New Orleans (23 points last week) and Tampa Bay (17) score what they did in Week 1, this game hits the Over.

TAKE VER 39.5 (-110).

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Birmingham Stallions vs. Houston Gamblers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Birmingham Stallions vs. Houston Gamblers Week 2 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Birmingham Stallions (1-0) face the Houston Gamblers (1-0) Saturday for a Week 2 USFL matchup. Kickoff is 7 p.m. ET at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stallions vs. Gamblers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stallions won the league’s first game of the season, picking up a 28-24 victory over the New Jersey Generals. The Stallions were underdogs in the game but, after allowing a go-ahead field goal with under two minutes left, quarterback J’Mar Smith led a 50-yard drive that ended with him rushing for the game-winning touchdown from 2 yards out with 29 seconds left in the game.

The Gamblers scored 17 first-half points against the Michigan Panthers, including a defensive touchdown, and held on for a 17-12 victory in their season-opening affair.

Stallions vs. cdGamblers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:31 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stallions -155 (bet $155 to win $100) | Gamblers +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread (ATS): Stallions -3 (-110) | Gamblers +3 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 41 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Stallions vs. Gamblers key injuries

Stallions

RB Jordan Chunn (hamstring) out
OL O’Shea Dugas (back) probable
QB Alex McGough (ankle) out
DB Josh Shaw (quad) questionable

Gamblers

OL Avery Gennesy (knee) probable
RB Mark Thompson (thigh) probable
DB Ryan White (ankle) questionable

Stallions vs. Gamblers picks and predictions

Prediction

Stallions 20, Gamblers 13

Money line

The Stallions are the only team to have a true home-field advantage, as all games are played in Birmingham. They also scored the most points of the week in their season opener.

The Gamblers relied on their defense making plays but allowed two very long drives to the Panthers in the first quarter before getting a takeaway and a red-zone stop.

Considering the offense the Stallions put up and the yards the Gamblers allowed early last week, take STALLIONS (-155).

Against the spread

The Stallions won their opener as the underdog, as only one favorite won in Week 1. Including Friday’s Week 2 game, the underdog has won in four of five games this season.

That said, I’m looking at the Stallions to pick up the win. The Gamblers only scored 6 points after the first quarter in their season opener.

Take STALLIONS -3 (-110).

Over/Under

The Stallions’ opener is the only game to go Over the projected total this season. Points have decreased in each game since, and Week 2’s opening game finished with a total of only 16 points.

Besides the Stallions’ 28-24 win last week, the highest total leading into their Saturday game is 40.

Take UNDER 41 (-110).

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Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Philadelphia Stars odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Philadelphia Stars Week 2 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (0-1) and the Pittsburgh Maulers (0-1) hook up for a Week 2 noon ET kickoff at Protective Stadium Saturday in Birmingham, Ala. The game will be on FOX. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Maulers vs. Stars odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Maulers are coming into this game as Pro Football Focus’ lowest-ranked USFL team. The reasoning for their struggles is based on a low-pass rate coupled with a lacking run game.

The Maulers were shut down by the Tampa Bay Bandits in Week 1, falling 17-3.

Philadelphia lost its opener to the New Orleans Breakers 23-17. The sportsbooks strongly favor the Stars’ quarterback Bryan Scott (1 passing TD in Week 1) over the Maulers’ struggling aerial attack.

Maulers vs. Stars odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3 a.m. ET.

Money line: Maulers +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Stars -333 (bet $333 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Maulers +6.5 (-120) | Stars -6.5 (-111)
Over/Under (O/U): 34.5 (O: -120 | U: -111)

Maulers vs. Stars key injuries

Maulers

DB Tyson Graham (Achilles) out
DL Ethan Westbrooks (quadriceps) out
WR Jeffrey Thomas (groin) out

Stars

RB Matt Colburn (knee) probable
WR Devin Gray (ankle) out
QB Case Cookus (ankle) probable
WR Christian Rowland (shoulder) out

Maulers vs. Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 21, Maulers 10

Money line

PASS.

A -333 money line for a team that’s also 0-1 is a PASS. However, betting on a team considered the worst in the league, despite a +220 price point, is a PASS as well.

Against the spread

LEAN STARS -6.5 (-111).

The Maulers didn’t get a touchdown last week and really had little production. They totaled under 150 yards through the air, and didn’t have a rusher go for over 60 either.

Add in the fact that their leading receiver, Thomas, is likely sidelined, and things are not looking pretty for Pittsburgh.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s Scott, RB Darnell Holland and WR Chris Rowland are all rising stars in the league. They should be able to pressure a Maulers defense that struggled heavily in the first half of their Week 1 defeat.

I’d take the Stars to win with ease in this battle.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 34.5 (-111).

How can one possibly consider not betting the Under when the Maulers put up 3 points last week and could be down their most dynamic offensive threat? Their offense showed no traction.

Former Kennesaw State standout Holland does offer some playmaking (totaling 115 all-purpose yards in Week 1 for the Stars), but the Maulers also did limit the Bandits to zero second-half points.

I expect a defensive-heavy battle in this one.

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