XFL Saturday Preview

The DC Defenders will be traveling to the city of lights to take on the Vegas Vipers. This will be another heavily weighted North division matchup. The Vegas Vipers let a double digit lead slip away in its week one game against the Arlington Renegades. On the other side, the DC Defenders pulled out a come back win against the Seattle Sea Dragons.

The Vegas Vipers will be starting Luis Perez for the second week over the late signee Brett Hundley. Hundley will most likely take over the reigns eventually but it’s still Perez’ job to lose. A fast start for Perez and the Vipers last week ended in defeat giving up 2 pick sixes. The Vipers dominated the game but turnovers played a huge role in the outcome. The Vipers will look to strike early again but they will need to hold onto to the early lead without turning the ball over.

The DC Defenders played a great game last week. Although, the offense never really hit its stride, the defense caused 3 timely turnovers. In the first week of play the weight of turnovers is evident and exponentially more important due to the running clock. The Defenders used this to their advantage on their way to victory over the Sea Dragons in primetime. The Defenders will look to establish more of a rythm with the run game and number 1 pick RB Abram Smith.

Some big names on the injury report for both teams. The Defenders will be missing starting center Mike Marietta,  Defensive lineman Fadol Brown and Ryquell Armstead is questionable. For the Vipers, its star defensive end Vic Beasley was still in concussion protocol as of Thursday and is questionable for the game.

Predictions: Vegas Vipers -3

With all components taken into account, I will take the Vipers to cover -3 at home. As far as the total 36.5 I’m leaning under but it’s a non play for me.

XFL Season Record: (2-2-1)