Seattle Dragons at Houston Roughnecks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Seattle Dragons at Houston Roughnecks sports betting odds and lines, with XFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Seattle Dragons (1-3) take on the Houston Roughnecks (4-0) in the XFL’s Week 5. Kickoff for this game is set for 2 p.m. E.T Saturday at TDECU Stadium. Below, we break down the Dragons-Roughnecks Week 5 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Dragons at Roughnecks: Week 5 preview, betting trends and notes

  • Roughnecks WR Cam Phillips leads the XFL in receiving yards with 333, despite catching just one pass for nine yards in Week 4. He will look to bounce back in Week 5 against a poor Dragons defense.
  • Dragons LB Steven Johnson currently leads the XFL in tackles after recording at least eight tackles in every game this season. On the year, he has 40 total tackles to go along with six tackles for a loss and two pass deflections.

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Dragons at Roughnecks: Key injuries

Dragons

  • DL Anthony Moten (ankle) out
  • WR Kasen Williams (quad) out
  • CB Johnathan Alston (knee) questionable
  • CB Jeremy Clark (hand) probable
  • WR Marcel Frazier (hip) probable
  • Santos Ramirez (illness) probable
  • William Campbell (knee) probable

Roughnecks

  • WR Sammie Coates (hamstring) out
  • DL Kony Ealy (shoulder) out
  • RB De’Angelo Henderson (shoulder) out
  • OL Marquez Tucker (knee) out
  • WR Kahlil Lewis (groin) questionable

Dragons at Roughnecks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:45 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Roughnecks 33, Dragons 17

Moneyline (?)

The Roughnecks (-526) are big home favorites over the Dragons (+380) Saturday afternoon. Houston has won four-straight games and sits atop the standings in the XFL through four weeks. Considering QB P.J. Walker leads the league in passing yards (987), it’s tough to see a scenario in which the Dragons can slow him down. PASS on these chalky odds in Week 5.

Against the Spread (?)

The ROUGHNECKS (-13.5, +100) are two-touchdown favorites over the Dragons (+13.5, -121) Saturday afternoon. Seattle has struggled mightily on offense this season, failing to score 20 points in any game. They are averaging just 16 points per game as they continue to look for stable play from the quarterback position. The 13.5 points is a ton to give, but I like the Roughnecks to cover this spread and win by at least 13 points Saturday as they look to improve to 5-0.

Over/Under (?)

The Over/Under for this Week 5 matchup in the XFL is set at 45.5 points, which is the highest of any game this weekend. With the Roughnecks having one of the best passing offenses in the XFL, it’s not hard to see why this line is so high. In order for the Over to hit, Houston will have to do most of the heavy-lifting but scoring 30 or more points shouldn’t be too difficult. Look for the OVER 45.5 (-110) to hit in the first game of Week 5.

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Tampa Bay Vipers at Los Angeles Wildcats odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s Tampa Bay Vipers at Los Angeles Wildcats sports betting odds and lines, with XFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Los Angeles Wildcats (1-3) host the Tampa Bay Vipers (1-3) Sunday of Week 5 in the XFL at Dignity Health Sports Park. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET and will be televised on ESPN. Below, we break down the Vipers-Wildcats Week 5 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Vipers at Wildcats: XFL Week 5 preview, betting trends and notes

  • The Wildcats and Vipers rank sixth and seventh, respectively, among the futures odds for the XFL Championship April 26. Los Angles is +1200, while Tampa Bay is +2000.
  • Tamp Bay shut out the DC Defenders 25-0 last week at home. Los Angeles lost 17-14 on the road against the New York Guardians. The Wildcats beat the Defenders 39-9 in LA the week prior.
  • Wildcats QB Josh Johnson ranks third in the XFL with 788 passing yards. Vipers RBs DeVeon Smith and Jacques Patrick rank first and third, respectively, in rushing yards.
  • Vipers QB Quinton Flowers has requested a trade, citing his timeshare under center with Taylor Cornelius and Aaron Murray. Flowers, who has taken the least snaps of the three, has completed 8 of 15 pass attempts for 106 yards and no touchdowns against one interception.

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Vipers at Wildcats: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 2:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Wildcats 32, Vipers 24

Moneyline (?)

Both teams stumble into Week 5 at or near the bottom of their respective divisions. The WILDCATS (-121) get the nod in what’s projected as the tightest game of the week. They’re 1-1 at home and have a touchdown differential of plus-2 on the season, while the Vipers (+100) are 0-2 on the road and minus-2 in touchdown differential. Home teams are 11-5 straight up through four weeks of XFL play.

The Wildcats are much more stable at the quarterback position, while the Vipers are left with a disgruntled Flowers, Murray and Cornelius.

Against the Spread (?)

Get the better value on the WILDCATS (-1.5, -110) by backing them to win by a minimum of 2 points. There hasn’t been a game decided by fewer than 3 points in the XFL. Los Angeles has scored five more touchdowns than Tampa Bay, while allowing just one more score.

Over/Under (?)

Back the OVER 40.5 (+100) at even money. The Wildcats are just two weeks removed from a 39-point outburst on their home field. The Vipers have put up 52 points over the last two weeks after being held to a total of 12 points in their first two games.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Los Angeles Wildcats at New York Guardians odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Friday’s Los Angeles Wildcats at New York Guardians sports betting odds and lines, with XFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Los Angeles Wildcats (1-2) will travel to MetLife Stadium to take on the New York Guardians (1-2) Saturday of Week 4 in the XFL. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. ET. (on FS1). Below, we break down the Guardians-Defenders Week 4 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Wildcats at Guardians: Week 4 preview, betting trends and notes

  • The Wildcats had an offensive explosion in Week 3, scoring 39 points in a home win over the DC Defenders. It was the most points scored this season in the XFL.
  • Wildcats QB Josh Johnson had a monster performance in Week 3, throwing for 278 yards and three touchdowns. He finished the game with a passer rating of 148.
  • For the third straight week, the Guardians struggled on offense as they had three different quarterbacks attempt at least five passes in a 29-9 loss to the St. Louis Battlehawks.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Wildcats at Guardians: Key injuries

Wildcats

  • RB Martez Carter (hip) doubtful
  • WR Nelson Spruce (knee) out
  • DB Mike Stevens (thigh) questionable
  • TE Brandon Barnes (knee) probable
  • DE Latarius Brady (knee) questionable
  • QB Josh Johnson (thigh) questionable
  • QB Chad Kanoff (shoulder) questionable
  • DB Harlan Miller (thigh) questionable
  • RB Larry Rose (foot) probable
  • DB Jaylen Dunlap (ankle) probable
  • WR Tre McBride (thigh) probable

Guardians

  • QB Matt McGloin (thorax) out
  • OL Avery Young (shoulder) probable
  • LB Garret Dooley (ankle) probable
  • LB Jawuan Johnson (head) probable
  • OL John Kling (shoulder) probable
  • RB Darius Victor (ankle) probable

Wildcats at Guardians: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated 12 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Wildcats 26, Guardians 16

Moneyline (?)

Both of these teams are looking to win their second game of the season and get back to .500. The Wildcats (-333) are big moneyline favorites despite being on the road. This actually says more about the Guardians (+260), who have been pathetic on offense all season long. PASS on a moneyline bet and look to the spread for proper value on the Wildcats.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on the Wildcats to win outright returns a profit of just $3.

Against the Spread (?)

The WILDCATS (-7, -125) open this game as more than a touchdown favorite over the Guardians (+7, +105).  After a dominant Week 3 game against the DC Defenders, the Wildcats offense looks like it’s back on track after two subpar games to start the season. Meanwhile, the Guardians have scored just nine total points over their last two games as they have struggled to find any consistancy at quarterback. Trust the Wildcats offense to continue to put up points and to cover the 7-point spread Saturday.

Over/Under (?)

The total for this Week 4 XFL matchup is set at 39 points, which feels about right given how bad the Guardians offense has been this season. For the Over to hit in this game, the Wildcats will need to do most of the heavy lifting, but they have proven that’s not a problem as long as Johnson is healthy. Don’t expect this to be a high-scoring contest, but for the OVER 39 (-115) to hit in MetLife Stadium.

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Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship, and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Seattle Dragons at St. Louis Battlehawks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Seattle Dragons at St. Louis Battlehawks sports betting odds and lines, with XFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The St. Louis Battlehawks (2-1) host the Seattle Dragons (1-2) Saturday of Week 4 in the XFL. Kickoff at The Dome at America’s Center is set for 5 p.m. ET (on FOX). Below, we break down the Dragons-Battlehawks Week 4 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Dragons at Battlehawks: XFL Week 4 preview, betting trends and notes

  • The Battlehawks play a second straight home game after throttling the New York Guardians 29-9 in Week 3. They started the season 1-1 on the road and will visit the DC Defenders next week.
  • The Dragons suffered a 24-12 home loss last week at the hands of the Dallas Renegades. They took a 31-19 road loss against the Defenders in Week 1 before topping the Tampa Bay Vipers 17-9 at home in Week 2.
  • The Battlehawks have the third-best odds to win the XFL Championship April 26 at +500. The Dragons have the second-highest odds at +2000.
  • St. Louis’ plus-4 touchdown differential is tied with the Houston Roughnecks as the best mark in the XFL. Seattle is minus-1 in touchdown differential.
  • Battlehawks QB Jordan Ta’amu ranks second in the league with 612 passing yards. Dragons QB Brandon Silvers is fifth with 512 yards.
  • Battlehawks RB Matt Jones leads the league with 224 rushing yards. Dragons WR Austin Proehl ranks fifth with 168 receiving yards.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Dragons at Battlehawks: Key injuries

Dragons

  • William Campbell (knee) questionable
  • DE Durrant Miles (knee) questionable
  • DT Anthony Moten (ankle) questionable
  • WR Kasen Williams (quad) questionable
  • OT Isaiah Battle (ankle) probable
  • OT Michael Dunn (calf) probable

Battlehawks

  • RB Matt Jones (knee) questionable
  • WR Carlton Agudosi (shoulder) probable
  • OT Matt McCants (knee) probable

Dragons at Battlehawks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Battlehawks 25, Dragons 15

Moneyline (?)

The Battlehawks (-500) are the heaviest favorites of the Week 4 slate, playing at home against the Dragons (+375). St. Louis is coming off a 20-point home win, while Seattle’s two losses this season were both by 12 points.

There’s no reason to go chasing the upset Saturday, so we’ll PASS on the Battlehawks’ chalky moneyline and look to the spread.

Against the Spread (?)

Following suit of the moneyline, the 12-point spread is the biggest of the week, and the only one greater than a single score. We’ll back the DRAGONS (+12, -110), as their first two losses of the season would have resulted in a push against this line.

The Battlehawks lead the East Division, but they haven’t looked nearly as impressive as the West Division-leading Roughnecks through three weeks.

Over/Under (?)

The bookmakers are starting to get a sense of the total lines after the Under was the league-wide trend in the first couple weeks of the season. Lines were finally dropped last week and the four-game slate went 2-2 vs. the O/U.

Back the OVER 38.5 (-110), the lowest projection of Week 4. The Dragons have scored at least 12 points all three weeks and the Battlehawks have put up a total of 53 points in their last two games.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @EstenMcLaren and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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DC Defenders vs. Los Angeles Wildcats odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s DC Defenders at Los Angeles Wildcats sports betting odds and lines, with XFL Week 3 betting picks, tips and bets.

The DC Defenders (2-0) visit the winless Los Angeles Wildcats (0-2) Sunday of Week 3 in the XFL. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. E.T. on FS1. Below, we breakdown the Defenders-Wildcats Week 3 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Defenders vs. Wildcats: Week 3 preview, betting trends and notes

  • In their Week 2 win, the Defenders allowed just 137 net yards on defense and gave up only five total first downs.
  • Defenders QB Cardale Jones continued his hot streak in Week 2, throwing for 264 yards and two touchdowns against the New York Guardians.
  • The Wildcats offense took a step in the right direction in Week 2 as QB Josh Johnson threw for 185 yards and two TDs against the Dallas Renegades.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Defenders vs. Wildcats: Key injuries

Defenders

  • DE Tavaris Barnes (thigh) questionable
  • WR Malachi Dupre (shoulder) questionable
  • LB A.J. Tarpley (hand) probable
  • DT Kalani Vakameialo (ankle) probable
  • LB Scooby Wright (knee) probable

Wildcats

  • LB Willie Mays (neck) out
  • QB Chad Kanoff (shoulder) out
  • C Kahlil McKenzie (ankle) out
  • DB Harlan Miller (thigh) out
  • TE Brandon Barnes (knee) probable
  • WR Saeed Blacknall (thigh) probable
  • DB Jaylen Dunlap (thigh) questionable
  • RB Elijah Hood (ankle) probable
  • QB Josh Johnson (thigh) questionable
  • WR Tre McBride (thigh) questionable
  • DB Jerome Couplin (ankle) probable
  • RB DuJuan Harris (ankle) probable
  • LB Will Smith (shoulder) probable
  • DB Jack Tocho (hip) probable

Defenders vs. Wildcats: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated 3:30 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Defenders 28, Wildcats 17

Moneyline (?)

The Defenders (-358) are big road favorites, but it’s a too much chalk to risk. Every $3.58 wagered on the Defenders ML only profits $1 if they win. The Wildcats (+275) at least offer a 2.75-to-1 payoff, but I don’t see them pulling off the upset. Heading into the third week of the XFL season, the Defenders are the favorite to win the championship. They have one of the better quarterbacks in the league in Jones, along with a top-ranked defense. Vs. a Wildcats team that is still struggling to stop anyone on defense, look for the Defenders to improve to 3-0.

Against the Spread (?)

The DEFENDERS (-8.5, -110) are the play here – even as more-than-a-touchdown favorite. With a dominant defense, the Defenders can shut down just about any level of quarterback the XFL has to offer. Add on the fact that the Wildcats have a lengthy injury report heading into this game, and it’s tough to envision many ways they can keep up. Turnovers will obviously play a role, but look for the Defenders to cover this 8.5-point spread.

Over/Under (?)

OVER 44 (-110) is worth backing. After a few weeks of bigger point spreads, oddsmakers have lowered the spreads dramatically in Week 3. However, the Defenders offense should feast against the worst defense in the XFL, and that should allow the Over to hit in Los Angeles.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship, and there is no influence on news coverage.

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New York Guardians at St. Louis Battlehawks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s New York Guardians at St. Louis Battlehawks sports betting odds and lines, with XFL Week 3 betting picks, tips and bets.

The New York Guardians (1-1) visit the St. Louis Battlehawks (1-1) Sunday of Week 3 in the XFL. Kickoff at The Dome at America’s Center is set for 3 p.m. ET. Below, we break down the Guardians-Battlehawks Week 3 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Guardians at Battlehawks: XFL Week 3 preview, betting trends and notes

  • Both East Division opponents enter Week 3 with +1000 odds to win the XFL Championship April 26. They’re tied for the fifth-best odds to win the eight-team league’s inaugural championship game.
  • The Battlehawks have scored six touchdowns with four allowed through two games. The Guardians had both scored and allowed three touchdowns.
  • Battlehawks QB Jordan Ta’amu ranks second among all passers with 493 passing yards through two games. RB Matt Jones leads his team and the league with 129 rushing yards. Ta’amu has added another 109 rushing yards.
  • Guardians QB Matt McGloin completed just eight of 19 pass attempts for 44 yards and two interceptions last week. He was replaced by backup Marquise Williams, who completed four of eight attempts for 50 yards.
  • Both teams took their first losses of the season last week after opening the 2020 XFL season with Week 1 victories. The Guardians were shut out, 27-0, on the road against the DC Defenders. The Battlehawks took a narrow 28-24 road loss against the Houston Roughnecks.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Guardians at Battlehawks: Key injuries

Guardians

  • OL Garrett Brumfield (hand) out
  • DB Garrett Dooley (ankle) questionable
  • WR Joe Horn (shoulder) questionable
  • DE Ryan Mueller (wrist) probable
  • OL Ian Silberman (groin) probable
  • DB Andrew Soroh (thigh) probable
  • RB Darius Victor (head) probable

Battlehawks

  • WR L’Damian Washington (ankle) questionable
  • DL Will Clarke (calf) questionable
  • RB Keith Ford (knee) questionable
  • RB Matt Jones (knee) questionable
  • WR Brandon Reilly (back) questionable
  • DB David Rivers (head) questionable

Guardians at Battlehawks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 10:50 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Guardians 26, Battlehawks 20

Moneyline (?)

The GUARDIANS (+300) are the biggest underdogs on the Week 3 slate with the Battlehawks (-400) the most-heavily favored team. With both teams sharing the same futures odds to win the XFL Championship, these moneyline odds should be much tighter, and it’s a good spot to chase the value early in the XFL season.

New York looked much better in a 23-3 win over the Tampa Bay Vipers in Week 1, with McGloin completing 15 of 29 passes for 182 yards and a touchdown. Back the visitors to bounce back.

Against the Spread (?)

The safer play is to back the GUARDIANS (+9.5, -106) to stay within nine points in a loss or win outright. The Battlehawks beat the Dallas Renegades by a 15-9 score on the road in Week 1 before last week’s 4-point loss in Houston.

Three of the four games in the XFL last week were played within a one-possession margin after three teams won by double digits in Week 1. Expect the tighter-scoring trend to continue as the season progresses.

Over/Under (?)

The projected totals across the league have been lowered significantly after the Under has been a common theme in the early-going of the season. Back the OVER 40.5 (+100) on the lowest number of the week. The projection is an over-adjustment by the books.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Esten’s XFL betting record: 1-6

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Dallas Renegades at Seattle Dragons odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Dallas Renegades at Seattle Dragons sports betting odds and lines, with XFL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Dallas Renegades (1-1) travel west to take on the Seattle Dragons (1-1) Saturday of Week 3 in the XFL. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET at CenturyLink Field. Below, we breakdown the Renegades vs. Dragons Week 3 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Renegades at Dragons: Week 3 preview, betting trends and notes

  • In his first start in the XFL, Renegades QB Landry Jones had a big passing day, throwing for 305 yards on 40 attempts in the 25-18 Week 2 win over the Los Angeles Wildcats. He did throw two interceptions, but his 7.6 yards per attempt is well above average in the XFL.
  • Renegades TE Donald Parham had a big day for Dallas, catching five passes for 76 yards and a touchdown. The 6-foot-8 target is an early favorite of Jones’.
  • Seattle QB Brandon Silvers completed just 7 of 18 passes last week in a 17-9 win over the Tampa Bay Vipers, throwing for 91 yards.
  • Dragons WR Keenan Reynolds caught his first career touchdown in any level of football in Week 2. He was a former quarterback in college who is now making the switch to wide receiver in the XFL.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Renegades at Dragons: Key injuries

Renegades

  • DT Winston Craig (knee) out
  • TE Donald Parham  (foot) probable
  • WR Jeff Badet (hip) probable
  • OT Pace Murphy (foot) probable
  • TE Sean Price (hand) probable

Dragons

  • TE Isaiah Battle (ankle) out
  • OT Michael Dunn (calf) doubtful
  • DT Anthony Moten (ankle) out
  • WR Kasen Williams (quad) out
  • WR Dontez Byrd (knee) probable
  • RB Kenneth Farrow (rib) probable
  • RB Ja’Quan Gardner (ankle) probable

Renegades at Dragons: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 9 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Renegades 23, Dragons 17

Moneyline (?)

The RENEGADES (-189) are big road favorites over the Dragons (+155) Saturday afternoon. It’s not hard to understand why Dallas is such a big favorite after  Jones was able to throw for over 300 yards in his first game. After shaking off some of the rust, expect the Renegades to win and advance to 2-1 on the season.

Against the Spread (?)

The RENEGADES (-4.5, -106) are favored to win by more than a field goal. With Jones back in the lineup and one of the best defenses in the XFL, Dallas might have the most talented roster in the entire league.

Seattle doesn’t have the same quarterback talent and likely won’t be able to put up more than a couple of touchdowns against Dallas. Take the Renegades to cover the spread and win by at least 5 points.

Over/Under (?)

The total for this Week 3 XFL game is set for 42.5, which feels about right. During the first few weeks of the XFL season, the lines were far too high and several Unders hit.

While it appears oddsmakers are starting to set these lines lower, this one still feels a bit too high considering how good Dallas’ defense has been this season. Take the UNDER 42.5 (-110) in Seattle.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship, and there is no influence on news coverage.

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New York Guardians at DC Defenders odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s New York Guardians at DC Defenders sports betting odds and lines, with XFL Week 2 betting picks, tips and best bets.

The New York Guardians (1-0) will take on the DC Defenders (1-0) Saturday of Week 2 in the XFL. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. ET at Audi Field. Below, we breakdown the Guardians-Defenders Week 2 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Guardians at Defenders – Week 2 preview, betting trends and notes

  • Despite being out-gained 394 yards to 226, the Guardians were able come away with a 23-3 win after taking an early 17-point lead over the Tampa Bay Vipers last Sunday.
  • Defenders QB Cardale Jones completed 16 of 26 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1. He finished the game with a passer rating of 116.7.
  • Despite their 20-point win last week, the Guardians had just 11 first downs. They ran 45 total plays and averaged only five yards per play.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Guardians at Defenders: Key injuries

Guardians

  • OL Garrett Brumfield (head) out
  • OL Ian Silberman (thigh) out
  • DB Dravon Askew-Henry (shoulder) probable
  • DT Cavon Walker (ankle) probable

Defenders

  • DT Kalani Vakameilalo (ankle) questionable
  • LB AJ Tarpley (hand) questionable
  • Malcolm Bunche (shoulder) probable
  • WR Simmie Cobbs (flank) probable
  • WR Malachi Dupre (thigh) probable
  • CB Desmond Lawrence (shoulder) probable
  • Shamrko Thomas (thigh) probable
  • WR DeAndre Thompkins (foot) probable
  • LB Scooby Wright (knee) probable

Guardians at Defenders: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Defenders 27, Guardians 23

Moneyline (?)

The Defenders (-278) are heavy favorites at home over the Guardians (+220) Saturday afternoon. After a convincing Week 1 win over the Seattle Dragons, the Defenders are proving to be one of the best teams in the XFL. With a proven quarterback and several former NFL receivers, expect the Defenders to win their second-straight game over the Guardians.

PASS on these low moneyline odds and look for better value on the spread.

Against the Spread (?)

The Defenders (-6.5, -110) open this game as a touchdown favorite over the GUARDIANS (+6.5, -110). While the Defenders scored 31 points in the opening contest of the season, the Guardians allowed just three as they forced two interceptions against former Georgia standout QB Aaron Murray. While I expect the Defenders to win this game, don’t be surprised if the Guardians keep this close and cover the spread.

Over/Under (?)

The total for this Week 2 XFL matchup is set at 47.5 points, which feels about right. In Week 1, far too many of the Over/Unders were set too high as the offenses are still working on getting in sync with one another. This game will feature two of the better quarterbacks in the league and that should help the OVER 47.5 (-106) to hit in Washington, DC.

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St. Louis Battlehawks at Houston Roughnecks odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Sunday’s St. Louis Battlehawks at Houston Roughnecks sports betting odds and lines, with XFL Week 2 betting picks, tips and bets.

The St. Louis Battlehawks (1-0) play a second straight road game to open their inaugural XFL season, as they visit the Houston Roughnecks (1-0) at TDECU Stadium for a 5 p.m. ET kickoff to wrap up Week 2. Below, we breakdown the Battlehawks-Roughnecks Week 2 matchup, with XFL betting picks and tips.

Also See – XFL Futures Betting: 2020 Championship odds, picks and best bets

Battlehawks at Roughnecks: XFL Week 2 preview, betting trends and notes

  • The Roughnecks beat the Los Angeles Wildcats 37-17 at home in Week 1. They scored more points than any other team in the league’s opening week and matched the New York Guardians for the largest margin of victory at 20 points.
  • St. Louis was the only road team to win in Week 1. The Battlehawks beat the Dallas Renegades 15-9 to cover a +9.5-point spread as underdogs.
  • Roughnecks QB P.J. Walker completed 23 of his 38 pass attempts for 272 yards and four touchdowns against one interception. Two of his touchdown passes were at least 39 yards.
  • Battlehawks QB Jordan Ta’amu completed 20 of 27 attempts for 209 yards and a single touchdown in his team’s Week 1 upset.
  • The Roughnecks totaled just 50 rushing yards as a team with one touchdown in Week 1. The Battlehawks combined for 191 rushing yards. RB Keith Ford scored the lone touchdown on the ground.
  •  The Battlehawks racked up 78 penalty yards in Week 1. The Roughnecks were charged 69 yards.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Battlehawks at Roughnecks: Key injuries

Battlehawks

  • DL Will Clarke (calf) questionable
  • RB Keith Ford (knee) questionable
  • WR Brandon Reilly (back) questionable
  • DB David Rivers (head) questionable
  • DL Dewayne Hendrix (ankle) questionable
  • RB Matt Jones (knee) questionable

Roughnecks

  • RB De’Angelo Henderson (shoulder) questionable
  • DL Caushaud Lyons (knee) questionable
  • WR Sam Mosley (hip) questionable
  • RB Andre Williams (wrist) questionable

Battlehawks at Roughnecks: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at Friday at 12:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Roughnecks 28, Battlehawks 18

Moneyline (?)

The Battlehawks (+240) are the biggest underdogs of Week 2 in the XFL as they stay on the road for a second straight game to open the season. There is no value in backing the Roughnecks (-304), even though they showed last week they’re now a team to beat en route to the April 26 championship game.

PASS and look to the spread for better odds on either side.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on the favored Roughnecks to win the Week 2 game returns a profit of just $3.29.

Against the Spread (?)

Back the ROUGHNECKS (-8.5, +110) to win by at least nine points at home for the second week in a row. Walker looked like the much better quarterback in Week 1 and the Battlehawks’ top two running backs are both battling injuries. Don’t expect this to be another 20-point blowout, but Houston will win by double digits.

Over/Under (?)

UNDER 50.5 (-128) is the play. The Roughnecks put up more points than any other team in Week 1 (37) while the Battlehawks’ 15 points were the fewest of any winning team in the season-opener. This will fall well short of the projection.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Esten’s XFL betting record: 1-4

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Tampa Bay Vipers at Seattle Dragons odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Tampa Bay Vipers at Seattle Dragons sports betting odds and lines, with XFL Week 2 betting odds, picks and best bets.

Coming off an ugly 23-3 loss to the New York Guardians in Week 1, the Tampa Bay Vipers (0-1) will head to the Pacific Northwest for a matchup with the Seattle Dragons (0-1). Kickoff from CenturyLink Field will be at 5 p.m. ET Saturday. We analyze the Vipers-Dragons Week 2 betting odds and lines, with XFL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Vipers at Dragons: Week 2 preview, betting trends and notes

  • The Vipers outgained the Guardians in their Week 1 loss, 394 yards to 226, but QB Aaron Murray‘s two interceptions were costly, as was a fumble by WR Nick Truesdell, which was returned for a touchdown.
  • QB Quinton Flowers will most likely get the Week 2 start for the Vipers with Murray sidelined due to a foot injury.
  • The Dragons opened the season with a 31-19 loss to the DC Defenders. QB Brandon Silvers threw two interceptions early in the game, which the offense was unable to bounce back from.
  • Seattle’s defense limited the Defenders to only 295 yards of offense, including just 68 yards rushing.
  • The Vipers were 0-for-4 on goal-to-go plays in Week 1.

Get some action on this XFL matchup or other games by betting at BetMGM. New customer offer: RISK-FREE First Bet (up to $500!) paid in free bets; visit BetMGM for terms and conditions. Bet now!


Vipers at Dragons: Key injuries

Vipers QB Aaron Murray (foot) has been ruled out for Saturday’s game. The Dragons will be without two tight ends with Isaiah Battle (ankle) and Cam Clear (undisclosed) were both ruled out. WR Kasen Williams (quad) is also out, while QB Brandon Silvers (ankle) is probable.

Vipers at Dragons: Odds, betting lines and prediction

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 11 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Vipers 26, Dragons 22

Moneyline (?)

The Vipers were a mess with Murray under center, so the presumed switch to Flowers isn’t necessarily a bad thing. He at least adds a running element to the offense, which should provide a spark.

Tampa Bay also limited the Guardians to just 226 total yards, so the defense was up to the task. Take the VIPERS (-134) to win outright on the road.

Against the Spread (?)

Tampa Bay is favored by 2.5 points over the Dragons despite being on the road. If the Vipers can improve in the red zone, they’ll be a handful for the Dragons, who struggled defensively in Week 1.

Take the VIPERS (-2.5, -106) to cover and win by at least 3 points.

Over/Under (?)

Three of the four XFL games went Under in the opening weekend, so the totals have been adjusted for Week 2. The Over/Under in this one is just 44.5 points, which is understandable for two teams that had lackluster performances to open the year.

They’ll figure things out after gaining a week of experience and the total will go OVER 44.5 (+105). It’s an even better wager with plus-money.

Want action on this game? Sign up and bet at BetMGM. If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @camdasilva and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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