- Analysis
- 4-unit Play. Take 269-Birmingham Stallions vs. the Michigan Panthers (Friday, April 4th, 8:00 pm)
The Birmingham Stallions, the 2024 UFL champions, are a stronger team than their 11-18 week 1 loss to the DC Defenders suggests. In sports betting, where value is king, they're a golden opportunity against the Michigan Panthers. Last year, they led the league in points scored per game and ranked 2nd in points allowed, showcasing a consistent identity that clinched the title. They've owned Michigan since 2024, going 3-0 with two regular-season wins and a conference championship victory under Adrian Martinez. The Stallions remain a more talented squad, even with Alex McGough, the 2023 USFL MVP and architect of their second straight championship. McGough's shaky week 1 was his first game back from the NFL, and the rust from not playing showed.
The Michigan Panthers, meanwhile, celebrated a 26-12 win over the Memphis Showboats, but I see them as just average, far from Birmingham's level. The score hides how close it was?Memphis, despite two interceptions, kept pace while Michigan stayed turnover-free; late in the game, the Showboats narrowed it to 12-20 but botched a 2-point try and a 4th-and-12 at their own 28, and after Michigan missed a field goal, a final interception returned for a touchdown padded the Panthers' margin. A few breaks, and Memphis could've stolen it. That fragility underscores why the Stallions, with their proven edge and McGough's pedigree, have Michigan's number?Michigan's win doesn't change their middling status against a championship-caliber foe.
