As the United Football League’s 2025 season progresses, the Arlington Renegades and D.C. Defenders are set to face off in a key Week 8 matchup on Sunday, May 18. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the standings, making this Arlington Renegades vs DC Defenders game crucial for their playoff aspirations.


Arlington Renegades vs. DC Defenders Game Preview
The Arlington Renegades enter this contest with a 3-4 record, putting them in a precarious position in the race fo rthe UFL playoffs. Arlington is two games back of the Defenders and the St. Louis Battlehawks, with a loss in this game all but ending their hopes of making the playoffs. Arlington has lost three straight games, including a 25-24 home loss to the Michigan Panthers last week, where the Renegades lost in the final seconds. Attention to detail has been a huge issue for the Renegades late in the season and additional lapses in judgement this week could end their playoff hopes once and for all.
The D.C. Defenders are holding a 5-2 record and are sitting at the top of the XFL Conference this season. The Defenders got a win in San Antonio last week over the Brahmas, avenging their home loss to San Antonio from earlier in the season. A win this week would clinch DC a spot in the UFL playoffs. The question will be whether DC’s defense can do enough to get them that win. While the Defenders rank second in the UFL in scoring offense, they also have the second-worst scoring defense and will need to find a way to get stops to slow down a desperate Renegades team.
Betting Insights
The betting odds for this matchup from bet365 are as follows:
- Spread: D.C. Defenders -2.5
- Total Points: 43
Given the fact that the Defenders have been so good on offense but so bad on defense, the over will be a popular pick in this weekend’s Renegades vs Defenders matchup. Whether you like that bet or something else on the board for this game, be sure to take advantage of the bet365 promo code for this game, where you can bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets.
Arlington Renegades vs DC Defenders Prediction
Considering the recent performances and statistical data for these teams, this game is expected to be closely contested. The Renegades’ offense, led by Luis Perez, could be effective against a struggling DC defense. The Defenders, despite their defensive woes, have the potential to exploit the Renegades’ defensive weaknesses. Jordan Ta’amu’s experience and weapons in the passing game will give the Defenders the upper hand at home. Given the circumstances, my prediction for this game is:
- Winner: D.C. Defenders
- Score: D.C. Defenders 27, Arlington Renegades 24
- Betting Pick: Over 43 total points