You can bet that the average Washington Commander fan has their butts on their couches every Sunday for all 18 weeks of the season. Every NFL fan knows the sadness of the season ending and having to watch their second favorite sport. Well, luckily for them, the XFL season is here, starting back on Feb. 18. The D.C. defenders may have to switch with the Commanders and join the NFL after their 7-1 start to the season.
Many think that just because it is not the most popular professional league that there is not as much talent. However, the Defenders proved this to be false in their recent 34-33 win over the Seattle Sea Dragons. Not only did they win in a thrilling back and forth battle, but they snapped the Sea Dragons five-game win streak, which will potentially knock them out of playoff contention.
The D.C. Defenders play their home games at Audi field, and the fan experience at Audi Field is great.
Senior Colin McDermott attended the Defenders 32-18 win over the Las Vegas Vipers and had the time of his life.
“I have been to countless NFL games, and the excitement at XFL games doesn’t even compare,” McDermott said.
With most NFL stadiums holding 70,000 to 90,000 fans, it at times can be overwhelming. However, Audi Field holds a comfortable 20,000 people resulting in a more relaxing experience.
At Commanders games FedEx Field is often filled with countless away fans, but at Audi Field, McDermott noticed something quite different.
“Everyone had on Defenders jerseys or shirts. It finally felt like I was actually at a home game for once,” McDermott said.
These games are also affordable. The average NFL ticket will run a patron anywhere from $100-$1,000, but Defenders and most XFL tickets average to be around $40.
“I was able to buy my own ticket, and my three other friends did the same. Not to mention that the food there is extremely cheap. I got a burger for like $5,” McDermott said. “I will be at the next game, and I am making sure that I get the invite out to more people this time,” McDermott said.
With the 9-1 start to the season, being a Defenders fan is easy. Who doesn’t love seeing their team win? The Defenders are on track to make the playoffs, which will start on April 29, and if they win, they will play in the championship game on May 13.