MLR Week 4 Preview
Entering the season’s quarter poll, there are two undefeated teams left. Contenders are beginning to establish themselves. What’s in store for Week 4?
San Diego Legion @ NOLA Gold
Where to watch: ESPN+ at 4PM EST Saturday
NOLA got back on track last week with a 27-20 win over Colorado. At 2-1, they have an early lead on the 2 seed in the East. San Diego, however, has been unstoppable thus far with an undefeated record and +45 point differential. The train keeps on rolling for the Legion.
Old Glory DC @ Austin Gilgronis
Where to Watch: NBC Sports Washington at 4PM EST Saturday
Old Glory looks to go streaking with a three gamer after a rough debut match. Austin has showed steady improvement, earning a draw last week and seem to have found something in flanker Dominic Akina and welcomed former All Black Jamie Mackintosh. DC completes the Texas sweep however, and goes to 3-1 on the season.
Utah Warriors @ Colorado Raptors
Where to Watch: FTF (For the Fan), Eleven Sports, KMYU at 6PM EST Saturday
Both of these teams have had mixed performances throughout the season, making this one tough to pick. Utah hands Rugby ATL a MLR debut win, outguns New England, then picks up a draw against the winless Gilgronis. Colorado has yet to put 80 minutes together.
However, I’m 0 for 2 predicting Raptors’ wins on the year, so at least won’t go down on that ship (so naturally, they’ll probably pick up their first win of the year). Utah wins a tight one.
New England Free Jacks @ Seattle Seawolves
Where to Watch: Fox Sports 2 at 10PM EST Saturday
The two-time defending champion Seawolves are 0-3. The upstart Free Jacks are +5 in point differential, but 1-2 in the standings. With backs agains the wall, expect Seattle to come out on top and put itself right back in the playoff conversation in a Western Conference that is struggling against its eastern foes out of the gates.
Toronto Arrows @ Rugby ATL
Where to Watch: ESPN+, TSN, WATL at 3PM EST Sunday
The Arrows are the only team keeping pace with San Diego thus far, carrying an undefeated record and +55 point differential into this one. Rugby ATL has been impressive, and seemed to be “saving itself” for this one, with several new starters introduced last week after a 2-0 start. Rugby ATL might be identifying itself as the best defensive team in the league.
Generally speaking a great defense + home field advantage would have me go ATL’s way. But I need to see someone knock off last year’s semifinalists before I pick against them. Arrows wear down ATL to score late and seal this one in dramatic fashion.
Rugby United New York @ Houston Sabercats
Where to Watch: CBSSN at 6PM EST Sunday
Houston has showed marked improvement this season, but has a rough early schedule. RUNY has bounced back from an opening season loss to look like the title favorites they are. With the signing of USA flanker Hanco Germiishuys RUNY bolstered its pack with a playmaker in the loose to complement further complement its potent backline. The visitors win, but it won’t be easy.
Last week’s picks: 3-3
Season: 6-6