2023 DC Defenders season
The 2023 DC Defenders season was the second season for the DC Defenders as a professional American football franchise. The Defenders played their home games at Audi Field and were led by head coach Reggie Barlow.
| 2023 DC Defenders season | |
|---|---|
| Owner | Alpha Acquico, LLC |
| General manager | Reggie Barlow |
| Head coach | Reggie Barlow |
| Home field | Audi Field |
| Results | |
| Record | 9–1 |
| Division place | 1st XFL North |
| Playoff finish | Won Division Finals (vs. Seattle Sea Dragons) 37–21 Lost XFL Championship (vs. Arlington Renegades) 26–35 |
At the first home game security staff prevented fans building the "Beer Snake", a signature feature from the 2020 season, and fans started throwing lemons on the field. The league made the proper arrangements for the "Beer Snake" to be allowed during Defenders home games.
Earning their first playoff berth and clinching first place in the North Division, the Defenders eliminated the Seattle Sea Dragons in the North Division title game in the playoffs. With the win, the Defenders advanced to the XFL Championship Game where they faced the Arlington Renegades, losing by a score of 26-35.