Tonight’s matchup features the 1-0 DC Defenders against the 0-1 Vegas Vipers. Here is what you need to know:

Originally tweeted by D.C. Defenders (@XFLDefenders) on February 25, 2023.

🆚 DC Defenders vs. Vegas Vipers
📍 Las Vegas, NV
🏟 Cashman Field
⏰ 7 pm ET
📺 FX / ESPN+

Line: DC Defenders +3.5

Tale of the Tape

Players to Watch

Jordan Ta’amu and D’Eriq King, DC Defenders

Both quarterback backs gave positive contributions to the Defender offense last weekend, but neither was overly impressive. In fact, Ta’amu was an abysmal 8-for-19 for only 86 yards and an interception, while King only threw the ball twice. However, both quarterbacks ran for a touchdown. It will be interesting to see the DC game plan today, especially with rain forecasted. Expect King to be utilized on conversion attempts and short yardage plays.

Luis Peres, Vegas Vipers

Perez was excellent last week until he wasn’t. The veteran quarterback threw for nearly 250 yards and three touchdowns, but also had two very bad throws that were returned for touchdowns. The entire offense for Vegas depends on Perez, as the Vipers were only able to Rush for 25 yards against Arlington in week one. If Perez can be consistent in decision making, then the Vipers may steal a win.

The Pick

There looks to be quite a bit of rain in the forecast for tonight, and with that comes the importance of the running game. Vegas struggled mightily las week with rushing offense while the Defenders had success running the ball, gaining 84 yards and scoring two touchdowns. DC becomes the second team in the XFL this season to record a road win (St. Louis).

Defenders 19, Vipers 14