In the climax of an exciting XFL season, the Championship game is upon us. This Saturday, the Arlington Renegades face off against the DC Defenders, two teams with contrasting fortunes this season.
For those wondering, “What football games are on today?” or “when is the XFL Championship” there is one XFL game on the agenda for Saturday, May 13, 2023.
The Defenders enter as favorites, with a stellar 9-1 season record, while the Renegades have had to battle through adversity to make it this far, currently standing at 4-6.
XFL Football Game Today: Saturday, May 13, 2023
Dallas Renegades (ARL) vs DC Defenders (DC)
8:00 PM ABC/ESPN+
Alamodome, San Antonio, TX
ESPN Broadcast team – Tom Hart, Greg McElroy, Cole Cubelic, Katie George
XFL Championship Game Overview
Arlington’s head coach Bob Stoops, a seasoned veteran in championship games, will make his sixth appearance in such a game. Stoops, who led the Oklahoma Sooners to the BCS National Championship in 2000-01, is seeking to add another championship to his illustrious career.
Luis Perez, the Renegades’ quarterback, is another key player to watch. He’s seeking to add a professional championship to his resume after winning a Division II national title at Texas A&M-Commerce in 2017. Despite ranking fourth in passing yards this season, Perez’s experience and ability to perform under pressure make him a crucial asset for the Renegades.
The DC Defenders, on the other hand, have been led by quarterback Jordan Ta’amu, who sits second in the league in passing yards. Ta’amu has been efficient and effective this season, throwing 14 touchdown passes and only 3 interceptions.
In the rushing department, Defenders’ Abram Smith tops the chart with 788 yards and 7 touchdowns. The Renegades’ Deveon Smith, despite ranking fourth in rushing yards, matches Smith in touchdowns, suggesting that the ground game could be a deciding factor in this matchup.
In the receiving department, DC’s Chris Blair and Lucky Jackson have combined for 1156 yards and 8 touchdowns, providing Ta’amu with reliable targets. Sal Cannella and Tyler Vaughns, on the other hand, lead the Renegades with a combined 717 receiving yards but have only managed one touchdown between them.
Betting information
The odds, courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook, have DC as 6 point favorites with an Over/Under of 48. The betting trends favor DC as they have outperformed Arlington in nearly every statistical category. However, given the Renegades’ recent surge and their solid championship game experience, there could be value in backing them with the points.
The total has been set at 48. Given the offensive capabilities of these two teams, we might expect a high scoring game. However, championship games often tend to be tighter, more defensive affairs. As such, the under may be worth considering.
While the Defenders are favorites, remember that in football, anything can happen. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just in it for the fun, this XFL Championship game promises to be an exciting one. Don’t miss it!
