XFL Preview: Vegas Vipers
The Vegas Vipers, formerly the Tampa Vipers from XFL 2.0, will be part of the North Division of the 2023 XFL season. The Vipers will call Cashman Field, home of the USL Vegas Lights FC.
Coaches:
The Vipers will be led by Pro Football Hall of Famer Rod Woodson. Woodson spent 17 seasons in the NFL, winning numerous awards at defensive back and is a Super Bowl champion. Woodson’s coaching experience has been exclusively in the NFL level since 2010, and broadcasting since 2017. Running the offense for the Vipers will be Duane Taylor, a former Arena Football standout, who’s coaching experience began at the high school level and quickly moved to the college ranks. On the defensive side, the Vipers will be managed by Cris Dishman, a 12-year NFL veteran from 1988-2000. Dishman was college teammate of Rod Woodson at Purdue but made a name for himself in the NFL, most notably while playing with the Houston Oilers. Dishman’s coaching experience spans from prep academies, college, CFL and the NFL.
Team:
The Vipers’ roster looks to have talent strewn within every position. Starting with their QBs, the Vipers were able to sign Brett Hundley last week, who most likely will eventually start at QB. First week starter will be spring football veteran Luis Perez from Texas A&M Commerce.
The Vipers running back corps will be led by Rod Smith, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys. The talent stays top level moving to the receivers with NFL names such as Geronimo Allison and Martavis Bryant.
Both the offensive and defensive lines have ex NFL talent to anchor the Vipers. The biggest bright spot for the Vipers may be former menace on the edge for the Atlanta Falcons Vic Beasley.
With all the talent on this team, you can bet that the Vipers will be ready to strike.
Season Prediction:
The North division will be the stronger of the two divisions in the XFL. The Vipers have the talent, coaching experience and barring major injures should be at the top of the North division at the end of the season.
Stay tuned for the remaining XFL team breakdowns as the season kicks off this Saturday!