Following the close of their last home game of the 2023 XFL regular season, the D.C. Defenders, sitting at a strong record of 8-1, rejoiced. They clinched the number one seed in the North Division and as a result home-field advantage for the division title game that leads into the championship tilt in San Antonio May 13. 

Home-field advantage

That very reward, a home game in the playoffs, is not typically much of a benefit in smaller sports leagues with lesser fan bases, but this is huge for the Defenders. With a consistently packed stadium and a passionate group of supporters, the “Shields” will have a huge advantage over their opponents. Team DJ “DJ Fresh” constantly hypes up the crowd in between plays thanks to a great music selection, and the hilarious tradition of creating a “snake” with empty cups unites the fans in support of D.C. By securing the top spot in the North, the Defenders do have a serious leg up in possibly making it to the championship game. 

Former standout under center

Ole Miss alum Jordan Ta’amu guides the offense that put on a show all season long. Ta’amu displayed his ability to do everything on the ground and in the air with his 253 rushing yards paired with 1,623 passing (XFL.com). He is elusive in space and delivered some beautiful passes throughout the win over Arlington on Sunday. Most of all, Ta’amu’s mentality and desire to win was incredible, missing much of the second half of the Renegades matchup but pushing through to deliver a 28-26 overtime win.

Offense firepower

Wide receivers Chris Blair and Lucky Jackson are third and fourth, respectively, in the league in receiving yards and provide solid options for Ta’amu. In the win over the Renegades Jackson tallied two touchdowns to help spark the victory. Other receivers Josh Hammond and Brandon Smith each made plays throughout the year including an incredible toe-tapping haul from Smith last Sunday. Running back Abram Smith holds the top spot in rushing by over 300 yards (XFL.com) and could very well see an NFL spot at the close of the XFL’s 2023 season. Their trio of tight ends have a combined four touchdowns to balance out a tough to beat offense.

The namesake

The team’s namesake, the other side of the ball, have had their ups and downs but do exactly what the team motto desires, “Defend D.C.” Edge rusher Davin Bellamy, a star on the New Orleans Breakers of the USFL last season, leads the defense with 5.5 sacks and former star NFL safety D.J. Swearinger makes a lot of splash plays for the team. With flexibility to play as a slot or nickel cornerback as well as a free safety, Swearinger brings a lot to the defense and looks in great condition for a comeback to the sport’s biggest league. Also notable on the defense is linebacker Francis Bernard, who stood out throughout the Renegades matchup as making plays all over the field, doing anything he could for the team’s success. Reggie Northrup, a defensive lineman, is the high-motored leader of the defense that serves as a glue-guy, per say, that brings the team together for a solid all around look. 

Though they must still play one more regular season contest before diving into the playoffs, the D.C. Defenders contain everything needed to make a legit push at a title in the XFL’s first year back following a two-season break.