The Pittsburgh Maulers (1-7) play the Philadelphia Stars (5-3) at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, AL. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Maulers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.
With just a couple of weeks until the USFL playoffs, fans will get treated with somewhat of an inner-state battle. While it’s still in Alabama, this will have that rivalry feel. The Stars beat the Maulers 30-23 in Week 1.
Philadelphia has been among the best teams in the USFL, having the best offense in the league. They’ve scored 222 points, but have allowed 201. They’re 3-1 in their division, but will be without QB Bryan Scott for Sunday’s game.
As for Pittsburgh, the Maulers have scored just 110 points in 8 games while allowing 193. This will be the most lethal offense against the league’s worst attack.
Stars vs. Maulers odds and lines
Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:27 a.m. ET.
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Stars vs. Maulers key injuries
Stars
QB Bryan Scott (knee) outMaulers
NoneStars vs. Maulers picks and predictions
Prediction
Stars 30, Maulers 17
Money line
PASS.
Philadelphia is the far-better team, but betting on them at -360 doesn’t make much sense given the potential return.
Against the spread
BET STARS -8.5 (-110).
The Stars were without Scott last week against the Panthers, but it didn’t matter much as backup QB Case Cookus played a nearly flawless game with 4 touchdowns. Cookus and the Stars beat the 1-7 Panthers 46-24.
Philadelphia should see similiar success against Pittsburgh.
The Maulers run defense is also a key issue, allowing over 140 rushing yards per game. The Stars abuse teams on the ground and are averaging over 105 yards per game.
Pittsburgh has lost 3 straight games by double figures as well. I’d back the Stars here as more of a fade against the Maulers who has struggled heavily as of late.
Over/Under
LEAN UNDER 47.5 (-110).
This is a lofty total, and I wouldn’t be willing to bet that Cookus repeats his dominant performance. The only time Pittsburgh hit this total was their 30-23 loss to the Maulers.
While it is the same matchup, the Maulers average just 13.8 points per game.
They just don’t have an overly productive attack, and with this projecting to be a run-heavy game as both teams combine to average just over 200 yards per game on the ground, the Under should be the better play.
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