The back half of the XFL schedule is ready to get going. Teams are hoping to position themselves for a chance to go to the playoffs and bring home a championship. While these teams are still figuring things out, it is fair to say that the teams have a better idea.
Seattle Sea Dragons (-8.5) at Orlando Guardians
The Sea Dragons did the unthinkable last week. Seattle dominated the Houston Roughnecks and was able to hand the Roughnecks this first loss of the season. If not for a few interceptions from Sea Dragons quarterback Ben DiNucci, Seattle would have won by more than 10 points.
The Guardians’ offense has struggled throughout the season. Orlando is sixth in the league by scoring 16.2 points per game. Meanwhile, the Guardians are allowing 30.4 points per game. Seattle will dominate this game to win four in a row.
St. Louis Battlehawks at Vegas Vipers, over 44.5
The Vipers have been one of the only XFL teams involved in multiple shootouts this season. In Vegas’ last three games, the Vipers have seen them and their opponents combined for 50 or more points. Part of the reason Vegas has struggled is the Vipers’ defense is generous with opposing offenses.
Vegas is last in total yards, and rushing yards are allowed per game. The Vipers are also seventh in points allowed, giving up 26.8 points per game. St. Louis has scored 20 or more points in the past four games. This one will go over the total.
San Antonio Brahmas at Arlington Renegades, over 32.5
This is the repeat of a 12-10 snoozer last week, where Arlington grabbed a narrow win. Despite being 3-2, the Renegades are last in the league in scoring, only putting up 13.8 points per game. Defensively, Arlington is third in the XFL, allowing 17.2 points per game.
San Antonio hasn’t been a competent offense for long stretches this season. The Brahmas have the second-worst scoring average, scoring 14.8 points per game. Much like Dallas, San Antonio makes up for it by having the second-best scoring defense, only allowing 15.8 points per game.
Houston Roughnecks (+125) at D.C. Defenders
The Roughnecks finally saw their hot start to the season come to a screeching halt with a loss to Seattle. However, there is little indication that Houston’s loss is a reason to panic. The Roughnecks kept the game within a touchdown despite sputtering on offense. Houston leads the XFL in total yards allowed, passing yards per game, and points per game.
The D.C. Defenders are the final undefeated team remaining in the XFL. However, the Defenders have had a lot of close calls. D.C. has won three games by eight points or fewer. D.C.’s defense has struggled at times this season. The Roughnecks will catch them and rebound with a road underdog win.