Both the Houston Roughnecks and San Antonio Brahmas enter Week 5 with identical 1–3 records, desperate to find their footing in the UFL playoff race. But after the Brahmas’ stunning upset over the previously undefeated D.C. Defenders last week, and Houston’s frustrating home loss to Birmingham, these two teams appear to be trending in different directions. What’s the best bet in tonight’s Roughnecks vs. Brahmas matchup?
Roughnecks vs. Brahmas UFL Week 5 Event Information
Houston Roughnecks at San Antonio Brahmas
3:00 p.m. ET, Sunday, April 27, 2025
Alamodome, San Antonio, TX
TV: ESPN
Roughnecks vs. Brahmas UFL Week 5 Betting Odds
According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, the Brahmas are 3.5-point home favorites to knock off the Defenders. The over/under, meanwhile, sits at 38.5 points.
Brahmas Outlook
Under head coach Payton Pardee, the Brahmas finally look like a team with an identity — a ground-and-pound offense led by a trio of running backs: Aidan Robbins, Anthony McFarland, and Jashaun Corbin. Their heavy run approach has made life easier for quarterback Kellen Mond, who’s coming off his best game of the season (120 passing yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs) and is showing real confidence as both a passer and runner.
The Brahmas should also get a boost with tight end Alize Mack returning from injury, adding another big red zone target alongside Jacob Harris, Jontre Kirklin, and Greg Ward. If they can continue to control the clock and finish drives on the ground, they’ll be tough to beat at home.
Roughnecks Outlook
Houston, meanwhile, is still searching for consistency. Jalan McClendon will make his first start of the year at quarterback with Nolan Henderson sidelined by a shoulder injury. McClendon’s dual-threat ability brings a new dynamic to Houston’s offense — he has a strong arm, the athleticism to extend plays, and looked sharp in relief last week despite the loss.
The Roughnecks’ offense gets a lift with the return of explosive running back Kirk Merritt, who should pair nicely with ZaQuandre White. Houston’s wide receivers, led by Marcus Simms, Keke Chism, and Justin Hall, have the speed to stretch San Antonio’s sometimes vulnerable secondary. But for all their weapons, the Roughnecks have struggled with self-inflicted mistakes, failing to capitalize on turnovers and squandering opportunities in key moments.
Key Matchups
Brahmas’ Run Game vs. Roughnecks’ Run Defense:
San Antonio’s trio of backs will test a Houston defensive line that’s had issues against the run all season, giving up big rushing days to St. Louis and Birmingham already.
Jalan McClendon vs. Brahmas’ Defense:
McClendon’s mobility will challenge San Antonio’s front seven, but he’ll need to be careful against a Brahmas defense that thrives when forcing hurried throws.
X-Factor:
Turnover Conversion
Houston has forced turnovers but often failed to turn them into points. If they can finally cash in after takeaways, they can stay alive late into this game. If not, San Antonio’s grind-it-out style could wear them down.
Coaching Battle
Payton Pardee (Brahmas): Off to an impressive start as head coach, Pardee has revitalized San Antonio’s offense and culture, pulling off a statement win last week.
C.J. Johnson (Roughnecks): His team plays with energy but continues to be haunted by mistakes and missed opportunities, compiling a 2–12 road record as Roughnecks HC.
Roughnecks vs. Brahmas UFL Week 5 Prediction
Momentum, confidence, and home field advantage all favor San Antonio. If the Brahmas stick to their ground attack and avoid turnovers, they should control the tempo. Houston’s big-play potential keeps it interesting, but San Antonio looks ready to keep climbing.
Roughnecks vs. Brahmas UFL Week 5 Prediction: SAN ANTONIO BRAHMAS -3.5