Rating:  2 Units

USC is 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record,  2-5 ATS in their last 7 Saturday games, and  2-7 ATS in their last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. While Oklahoma is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 non-conference games, 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up win,  5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS win, and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 vs. Pacific-12.

Rating: 2 Units

Louisville is 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS loss, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall, and 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a straight up win.

Rating: 3 Unit Bowl Game Play of the Day

Fresno State has been a dream to their backers, as they are currently on a 19-6 spread run, while compiling a 22-6 SU run since Tedford took over as HC in '17. All he did was inherit a squad which was fresh off a 1-11 record in '16 (0-10 windup), as well as a 3-9 log in '15. He simply duplicated what he had done for Cal in '02, when he took over a 1-10 team, immediately turning it into a 7-5 outfit. Led by McMaryion (3,453 yards, 70%, 25/3), & WR Johnson (1,307 yards), Fresno is seeking its first-ever 12-win season. For the Sun Devils of Arizona State, this marks their 30th bowl game, standing at 14-14-1 SU, but on a current 4-9 SU & ATS run.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

Gonzaga, which won the prestigious Maui Invitational with a 89-87 win over Duke in the final, comes in off an emotional 81-79 victory over in-state rival Washington on Wednesday night. . Gonzaga is trying for just its second 10-0 start since joining Division I in 1958-59. The 2016-17 squad that lost to North Carolina in the national championship game began 29-0. Perkins leads the nation with 75 assists and needs two to pass John Stockton (554) for fourth place on the school's career assists list. Tennessee is 4-4 in its last eight games against teams ranked No. 1 in the nation with the last win coming over Kansas, 76-68, on Jan. 10, 2010 in Knoxville. Tennessee is 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games following a straight up win and 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.

Rating: 3 Units

Michigan is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss, 4-1 ATS in their last 5 non-conference games, 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 Saturday games, 15-6-1 ATS in their last 22 games following a straight up win, and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall. While South Carolina is 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 non-conference games, 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS loss, 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall, and 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

Rating: 3 Unit NBA Play of the Day

Washington is a poor 2-7 SU & ATS on the road, allowing 122.0 PPG. New Orleans ranks second in the NBA in scoring (118.2 PPG) and its loss to the Celtics was just the team's second at home in 10 games this season, the first in which All-Star forward Anthony Davis (27.0 & 12.8) played. The Pelicans are averaging 122.0 PPG at home this season and tonight, revenge works!

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

Even with Mike Watkins (personal) returning to the Nittany Lion lineup for at least limited minutes, the Hokies are a tough match up. Virginia Tech has some size in Kerry Blackshear, but the perimeter is loaded and feisty. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Justin Robinson and Ahmed Hill are hitting at least 40% of their 3-pointers and Hill is knocking down 56% of his long-range shots. This is the Hokies’ first road test and it will help to have an experienced crew heading to College Station.

Rating: 4 Unit Inter-Conference Game of the Week

Just one more, & the Irish are in the playoffs. Book is back (23-of-37 for 292 passing yards vs Syracuse). Notre Dame has topped 30 points 7-of-8, & held a 300-yd rushing yard edge over Troy last year. Only 97 & 112 rushing yards for Trojans the L2 weeks, who are 3-11 ATS (1, 4, 1 point covers), & Daniels just 15 touchdown with 12 interceptions.

Rating: 4 Unit ACCC Game of the Week

Panthers have clinched their first ACC title game berth, with 28-3 2nd half edge at Wake (470-285 yard edge). Have reached 200+ rushing yards 9 times this year, & are on 6-0 ATS run (+107½ points). Miami snapped 4-game slide, with a 28-0 windup last week. On 5-14 ATS run. Grab the points.

Rating: 3 Unit CFB Play of the Day

Zip QB Nelson back, but just 2 field goals vs Bowling Green, & a 794-317 yard deficit in their L2 games. Ohio just the opposite, with 339 rushing yards per game in their L5 games, & in off 646-277 yard edge vs 9-2 Buffalo. And Ohio is +88½ points ATS at home.

Rating: 3 Unit NBA Play of the Day

Look for Denver to try to get shooters in the corner open vs. the Bucks. Milwaukee is in the bottom half of the league in defending the 3-point line. Denver was in a bit of a funk and then they beat the Hawks before this trip started. When they lost to the Bucks 8 nights ago, Gary Harris had an off game going just 5 for 14. That was a mirage. Harris shot 50% from the floor and 49% from the field last season. They were in the Big Easy on Saturday and in that game Denver had one bad 12-minute stretch and it cost them. The Nuggets figure to be sky high to beat the hot Bucks and this season they have already knocked off the champs and Boston and the 10-5 Clippers.

Rating: 4 Unit CFB Mismatch Game of the Week

Most potent offense in Utah State school history: 804 yards last week (40 first downs). Now on a 7-1-1 ATS run, by 116 points. Rams on a 3-12 spread slide, with a 523-94 rushing yard deficit L2 weeks. No way this stays close.

Rating: 4 Unit CFB Game of the Week

Loved Pitt's rout of Virginia Tech, piling up 654 yards in the process (Ollison: 235 rushing yards). Panthers on 5-0 ATS run, by 92½ points, & at 410 rushing yards per game the L3 weeks. Wake slowing it down (lack of depth). Took NC State in L6:10, but have allowed 39.8 points per game in their last 5 games. More of same

Rating: 3 Unit CFB Play of the Day

Nothing but superlatives, as far as Owls are concerned: 26-8 ATS (7-1 ATS LA: 2-point miss); 1,207 yards L2 weeks, vs Central Florida & Houston. Bulls a 133-74 point deficit L3 games, with 606-191 rushing yard deficit the last 2

Rating: 4 Unit Big-12 Game of the Week

Line opened at Baylor minus 1, and is now minus 2. How the pendulum doth swing. A near complete turnaround for these 2 this season. For the Bears, they've gone from last year's 1-11 log, to this season's 5-5, needing this for bowl eligibility. And for the Frogs, they've come from a perennial bowl squad (11-3 in '17), to a team which has been the victim of countless key injuries, resulting in a 4-6 log, with current spread runs of 0-7 & 1-10, failing to reach the 300-yard offensive plateau in 3 of their last 4 games, & are in off 47-10 loss to West Virginia (25-point ATS loss), while Bears pulled upset of Oklahoma State in their last home game. I'll lay the 2.

Rating: 3 Unit NBA Play of the Day

Coach Dave Fizdale is searching for the right combination for the Knicks. He’s been playing a deep bench and that is not always a good thing on a bad team. New York has lost 5 of 6 and the win was against the lowly Hawks. The Pelicans threw in a clinker on Wednesday in Minnesota with just 100 points. They were coming off a big win over Toronto so maybe they read their clippings. They only got 5 points off the bench vs. Minnesota and Anthony Davis had a poor shooting night going 9 for 25. If Nikola Mirotec can’t go with his ankle, Julius Randle should inherit his minutes.

Rating: 3 Unit CBB Play of the Day

After an ugly home loss to Louisiana Tech, it looked like Wichita State might be a team that could be picked against. The Shockers were rescued by a career game from Markis McDuffie in the win over Providence with a career-high 32 points. They simply can’t rely on a such a game and the Wildcats are built to take advantage. The back court of Kellen Grady and Jon Axel Gudmundsson are a handful and the Shockers won’t be able to handle Davidson’s pace.

Rating: 4 Unit CFB Game of the Week

Line opened at Cincinnati minus 12, and is still minus 12. Guess who popped into the weekly Top 25 polls this week? Right, these Bearcats, who are more than deserving, despite their level of competition. They've been a huge step ahead of the odds makers all season. Just one slip, & that in narrow road loss to always dangerous (& underrated) Temple. Last week, they demolished a Navy team, 42-0, & in so doing, kept the Mids out of the end zone, which hadn't happend to them since '12. Cincy: a 451-171 yard edge, as well. The Bulls of South Florida have had the rug pulled out, with the departure of Flowers. Weekly squeakers, have evolved into 98-51 point deficit the last 2 weeks.

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Line opened at Georgia minus 14½, and is now minus 14. Are their anymore non-believers in the brilliance that of this 'Dawg squad? Sure, their lopsided loss at Lsu didn't help, but that was simply a classic SEC home upset, which makes that league so special. Truth is, the 'Dawgs are still very much in the mix for the National Title playoffs, currently ranking 5th. Thus, no possibility of anything but full focus. A week ago, they simply crushed Kentucky's highly ranked rushing "D", with a 331-84 RY advantage, while the Tigers have run only on OleMiss' sieve "D", & have topped 33 points in 7-of-8 games.

Rating: 4 Unit ACC Game of the Week

Panthers in the groove, winning & covering 4 straight (+65½ points). Came from 191 rushing yards per game to 369 rushing yards per game in the L2 weeks. Hall vs Cavs LW: 229 rushing yards (12.1 yards per rush) & 3 TDs. Four straight home losses for Hokies (1st time since '92). Scorched for 309 rushing yards per game in their L3 & 0-4 ATS by 50½ points.

Rating: 3 Unit Big-10 Play of the Day

Pair of spread setback for Boilers, on the heels of 5-0 ATS run. Beat Iowa on FG in L0:08, & in doing so posted their 3rd win over a ranked team. Blough: 3 TDs. Visitor now 37-15 ATS in Purdue tilts. Minnesota got its comeuppance in 33-point line loss at Illinois. Ceding 43 points per game their L6 games

Rating: 3 Unit PAC-12 Play of the Day

Cougar magic continues, taking Stanford in 0:19, after Minshew completed his first 19 passes in the 2nd half. And Washington State is on a 5-0 ATS run. No offensive TDs for Bears vs Washington, but still a 12-10 win (key: "pick-6"). Solid defense, but no match for Washington State at this site.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-12 Game of the Week

Raiders always among the offensive leaders (3rd, 6th, 4th in pass, scoring, total). Bowman another 323 passing yards last week, but 1 touchdown with 3 interceptions. Oklahoma never rests. In off a 702-yard effort in destruction of a Kansas State team that took Oklahoma State 31-12. Murray at 2,329 yards (28 touchdowns with 3 interceptions). OU: 18 straight road wins

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Yes, we are fully aware of the fact that this series is rife with brutal, low scoring wars. The Tigers are on a 12-2 ATS run, & at +55½ points ATS in last 3 home games. But also note that Lsu was held without a TD in the L57:37 of its win over Mississippi State. Alabama is always a defensive marvel, but this year they own possibly their best-ever offense. Tagovailoa now 25 touchdowns with 0 interceptions, 70%. Tide rolls

Rating: 4 Unit Inter-Conference Game of the Week

Line opened at Fresno State minus 23½, and is now minus 24. Five straight wins for the Bulldogs, covering all 5 by a combined 60 points, which swells their current spread run to a very profitable 23-4-1 run. Their only slip (SU & ATS) this year came in an early season 21-14 loss to Minnesota, as 2-pt dogs. QB McMaryion is the perfect leader (now 14/2 TDs to INTs), & Fresno has allowed just 3, 3, & 7 points the last 3 weeks. Rainbows of Hawaii can move the ball, behind QB McDonald, who now stands at a remarkable 29/3 for the year. But 'Bows cannot run, & HI "D" has only contained formerly punch-less Wyoming

Rating: 3 Unit Big-10 Play of the Day

Line opened at Penn State minus 5, and is now minus 6½-7. Weekly Nittany Lion romps have come to a close, dropping 2 of their last 3 contests, SU, but with a cumulative score of 76-76. Their brutal loss to Ohio State (led 26-14 with 6:45 left, only to lose 27-26 in the final 2:03) simply crushed them, as they followed that one up with 21-17 upset loss to Michigan State (were 13½ pt favorites). Both were at home, by the way. And last Saturday, they were outplayed in narrow 33-28 win over Indiana, as 14-pt favorites. QB McSorley has assumed too much of the "O" load. Hawkeyes a steady force, looking sweet as TD dog

Rating: 5 Unit PAC-12 Game of the Month

Herman Edwards has switched ASU defensive system to 3-3-5 and opponents have been very hesitant to throw against it. USC hasn’t been able to run very well this season, and a pass-heavy plan as they prep #3 QB, red shirt freshman Jack Sears, would seem to be a good recipe for losing. There doesn’t seem to be a best-case scenario here for the home side. The Trojans’ defense suffered a major blow when linebacker Porter Gustin was lost for the season a couple of weeks ago. Giving up 40+ in defeat at Utah was not a good way to resume playing without him. The exposure could continue to be exploited.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Lions white-knuckling it, with 1, 4, & 5 point margins L3 games. A 48-43 point deficit in their L2 home games, & in off 32-20 first downs & 554- 417 this year deficits at 4-4 Indy. Penn State took Hawkeyes at the gun last year, & this should resemble that, although Iowa managed just 1 "O" vs MD. This to wire.

Rating: 4 Unit ACC Game of the Week

Tigers came from a 1,371-362 rushing yard edge in previous 4 games, to a 104-91 rushing yard deficit vs NC State. However, Lawrence posted more than 300 rushing yards. And that "D". So a 104-10 point edge in L2 games. FSU cranking it up, behind QB Francois (353 passing yards vs Wake), but cannot run. Rout

Rating: 5 Unit NFL Game of the Year

Battle of two young mastermind coaches in Shanahan and McVay. McVay definitely has the edge with a healthy QB. Hopefully, Garoppolo gets back to 100% next year, because this could be the rivalry that it was back in the '80s & '90s. Third straight road game for the Rams, having slipped by the Seahawks & Broncos (33-31 & 23-20). No question that L.A. is the NFL's premier ball-mover, behind Goff (1,928 passing yards) & Gurley (career-high 208 rushing yards last week), but Rams allowing 27.3 ppg in their last 3 outings. Niner "D" is just about at that level, so we'll take the better "O" here.

Rating: Pac-12 Play of the Day

Just that improbable OT loss to Stanford keeps 'Ducks from unbeaten ranks. Took Washington in OT, by twice freezing Husky placekicker, on final play. Herbert: another 2/0, & now at 17 touchdowns with 5 interceptions. But offensive line is hurting. Washington State also 5-1 (39-36 loss to Usc). Minshew in off 430 passing yards (5/0) & Wash State is at 38.6 points per game in its L7 home games (14-4 ATS at home).

Rating: 3 UnitInter-Conference Game of the Day

Line opened at Missouri minus 7, and is now minus 10. Sure, the line swing is hardly welcomed here, but, this sets up nicely. Catching the Tigers of Memphis, off being crushed in the one that they've been pointing all season, gives us a perfect spot to jump in. In its 31-30 loss to unbeaten Central Florida, Memphis held 31-14 lead over the Knights, in the 2nd, only to be held scoreless over the final 32:04, not exactly what this offense is accustomed to. Mizzouri's loss to mighty Alabama was nearly on script (28-point dog, 29-point loss), so no letdown. Offense galore, with the emotional edge to Missouri.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Blowout of the Week

Utah State doing it up right, behind QB Love, who has 9 TD passes, with no picks L2 weeks. Are 4-0-1 ATS, by 72 points so far, and in off balanced 598 yards vs a decent Unlv squad. 'Pokes have a 159-62 point deficit in lined games, with zero "O" TDs past 2 weeks. Favorites are 6-0 ATS in Wyoming games this year.

Rating: 4 Unit NCCAAF Game of the Week

Cadets are something else. Check their current 5-0 spread run by 95½ points. A better than 300 rushing yard edge in latest romper, vs San Jose State. 'Hawks in off 29 & 14 point covers (led Kent 30-0), but were at just 132 rushing yards per game, before posting 295 vs Kansas State's paper defense. Use Army/Buff as a barometer.

Rating: 5 Unit NCAAF Game of the Month

West Virginia quarterback will Grier got 3 interceptions out of the way against the Jayhawks, who’d displayed those tendencies with 8 picks in their prior five games. Iowa State has only 3 INTs. They changed quarterbacks to dupe the Oklahoma State defense for 48 points, but that defense had already been duped for 41 by Texas Tech.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Spartans not moving from top spot in rushing "D", but can't run, themselves, & have a current 46-19 point deficit in their last 5 quarters. And check QB Lewerke at just 6 touchdowns with 6 interceptions. Rested Lions do it every which way: 261 rushing yards per game & 254 passing yards per game. And a matter of last year's killer to settle.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

Sure, Spartans have covered 5-of-6, but still looking for SU win #1. Managed only 48 rushing yards vs Colorado State's previous 249 rushing yards per game "D". Came back vs Rams, but collapsed in 4th. Cadets rested & ready after pasting previously perfect Buffalo, & taking Oklahoma into OT: +45½ points!

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Owls again in the groove. Are on 23-7 ATS run, covering their L4 games by 80½ ptoins. Have neutered overland game of Middies L2 years (26 & 14 point covers). Navy yet to cover, & the visitor is 13-5 in Navy contests. Only 9 first downs, with a 399-178 yard deficit for Navy at Air Force

Rating: 4 Unit  NCAAF Game of the Week

Irish a totally different outfit with the insertion of Book who followed super effort vs Wake with 4-TD, 24-of-33 showing in 15½ point cover vs Stanford. Perfectly balanced. Hokies got 332 passing yards (3 TDs) in Willis' 1st start (21½ cover at Duke). But Tech: only 82 rushing yards. Irish!

Rating: 4 Unit Military Game of the Week

Right, I rarely, if ever, stray from backing the underdog when these 2 meet (26-8 ATS). No wins for Falcons vs lined teams, but Middies are 1-8 ATS in road spreads (-42½ points ATS this year), & in off OT loss to SMU, allowing 2-point conversion. The Underdog is 20-3-1 ATS in Air Force games. Again

4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Gators put it to us last week, holding Mississippi State without an offensive TD, and a 155-yard edge (98 passing yards). So 3-0 SU & ATS (+54 points). The Bengals just keep plugging along. On 10-1 spread run (5-0 away), with lone miss: 3 points, and +46½ points ATS this year. Note a sweet 573 balanced yards vs Ole Miss. Ditto.

Rating: 5 Unit BIG10 Game of the Year

Line opened at Iowa minus 3, and is now minus 7. I originally went with the Gophers here, as the host team has been splendid play in Minnesota games, covering 8-of-10. That following a streak in which the underdog paid off in 13-of-15 Gopher games. However, all that has changed, with the favorite now on an 8-0 spread run in Minnesota games. Thus, a mere 7-point spot, vs an Iowa squad, which ranks 5th in the land in total defense, holding 9 opponents to less than 18 points over the last 2 years. And note that the favorite is 16-5-1 ATS in the Hawkeyes' last 22 games. Minnesota had a 315-94 rushing yard deficit in their last game (31½ point line loss to Maryland).

Rating: 3 Units

The visiting team in Bronco games has been a godsend, currently standing 25-8 ATS, & we've certainly reaped the reward. Sure, that trend hasn't paid off in Boise's last 2 games, especially when the Broncos took the road, returning with an embarrassing 44-21 stomping at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys have made some noise, of late, with a pair of 8-win bowl seasons. However, after taking the measure of patsy New Mexico State in their opener, they were nailed for 41 & 40 points in their 2 lined games since. Catching Boise in this spot is just a killer

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

No less than 6 take aways for Gators in rout of hapless Tennessee. Only 14 first downs, but a 47-21 win (22-point cover). Will need a repeat of such generosity if they are to be competitive vs Bulldogs, who stunk out the joint at Kentucky: 11 first downs, with a 229-56 rushing yard deficit. Are seething. Don't worry about the number.

Rating: 4 Unit Non-Conference Game of the Week

Utah a week off after feeble 13-first down effort vs Washington. Washington State averaging 40.3 points per game in their last 6 home games, with a 108-58 point edge in lined games this year. Minshew: 344 passing yards, with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions vs USC.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Katie, bar the door! Can this be anything but a barn burner? Question: how did Raiders lose by 20 hosting Ole Miss? They've taken their normal spot atop passing & total "O" columns. A 38 point cover at Oklahoma State, with 35 first downs & 621 yards. West Virginia's Weir at 14 touchdowns with 3 interceptions, so a wild one.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Mismatch of the Week

Bulldogs keep on doing it. Now have a 394-170 point edge in RS play since last year. Fitzgerald last week: 6 touchdowns (4 rushing) and over the last 2 games, he has thrown for 397 yards and run for 266. Kentucky at 301 rushing yard per game in lined games, & posted 24½ point cover vs Florida 2 weeks back. Visitor 6-1 ATS in UK games.

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

No questioning Texas A&M  improvement behind QB Mond (640 passing yards L2 weeks). Nicely balanced, but note only 71 rushing yards in narrow loss to Clemson. Alabama in another stratosphere (527-155 point edge L13 games). Trailed Ole Miss 7-0; won 62-7. Tagovailoa: 20 drives so far: 14 touchdowns & a field goal.  No question about this outcome.

Rating: 3 Unit ACC Play of the Day

No covers for either squad, with mighty Tigers 3-7 spread run. Note 595-140 yard & 27-7 first down edges over Georgia Southern. Georgian Tech on a 10-5 ATS run, but lost its last lined home game, 38-7. Check a 739-362 rushing yard edge in Jackets' last 2 contests: a 73-57 point deficit, & -23 points ATS. Tigers roar.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Eagles still smoking: +141½ points ATS L9 games & on a 10-1-1 spread run. Brown against Blough here, with the former in off TD passes of 27, 35, 29, 71, & 40 yards, & latter blistering Mizzou for 531 yards (3 touchdowns with 1 interception). Visitor still the way to go in Boiler games as they are 34-12 ATS. Lay it.

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Not much more need to be said about this one concerning Alabama.  They have a 465-148 point edge in it's last dozen games.  Now Tagovailoa is #2 in the land in passing efficiency.  Old Miss QB Last week had 448 passing yards with 5 touchdowns and no interceptions.  The Tide will be fully focused, which is big trouble for the Rebels.  This ones a route

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Quite a turn around for the Gophers who were horrid favorites, before current 3-0 ATS favorite run, by a combined score of 123-45, including holding Fresno State to 13 first downs and 87 rushing yards. Miami-Ohio is on a 3-10 ATS slide, with a 359-147 rushing yard deficit this year.  Don't worry about the number in this one.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

Just 4 punts in 2 games for the Rainbows, with McDonald at 846 passing yards and 9 touchdowns so far (6 vs Navy). Another? Hawaii is +53½ points ATS to date. Owls in off allowing 577 balanced yards hosting Houston. And no letup here.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Upset of the Day

Both off & running. Minnesota turned a 10-7 deficit vs New Mexico State, into a 48-10 win, with a 295 -38 rushing yard edge. Opposite of last year, when they had a 103-10 point deficit in 3 of last 4. Seven rushing touchdowns for 'Dogs in opener with Bryant taking 2 blocked field goals to the house. Fresno an 8-0 ATS underdog

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Non-Conference Game of the Week

The Utes have Washington, Washington State, & Stanford on deck, but clicking (+35 points ATS in last year's final 3 games, and opened with 608-61 yard edge vs Weber). NIU has allowed 31, 31, 36, & 33 points in last 4 games, and on 2-8 ATS run. Just 211 yards vs Iowa, and passing offense is suspect.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Vanderbilt turnaround in '12 & '13, has dissipated, save for '16's 6 -7 mark, including a 41-17 bowl loss. A 353-211 point deficit in their last 9 games, following a 3-0 getaway. QB Shurmer returns, but so does Raider QB Stockstill. Middle Tennessee averaging 35.8 points per game in their L5 games.

Rating: 4 UnitNCAAF Blowout of the Week

Quite a nice windup for the Bulldogs last year, winning their final 3 games by a combined 113-37, including a 45-point bowl cover. Helped ease the frustration of three 1-point losses. Jags were blitzed by Smith last year, & a repeat is possible. The favorite is 32-15 ATS in South Alabama games

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

No Allen at QB for the Cowboys, but that defense (9th in scoring LY) is still a force (8 returnees), ceding 7 FDs & 135 yards in rout of New Mexico State.  Washington State not the best of road favorites, with an 87-161 point deficit in their last 4 away from home. And both lines are decimated.

Rating: 4 Unit NFLX Play of the Week

The Pats own a 9-2 SU and 8-3 ATS mark in this preseason series. In addition, Belichick is 8-2 SU and 7-3 ATS at home during the preseason when coming off a home game. In addition defending Super Bowl champions are 7-19 SU and 8-16-2 ATS in their first preseason road game since 1991, including 0-6 SUATS when facing an opponent playing in its second preseason home game.

Rating: 3 Unit Play of the Day

Greinke posted a solid 2.64 ERA with 30 strikeouts and six walks over 30 2/3 innings in five starts last month but came away with an 0-2 record. Both of the 34-year-old Floridian's losses in May came on the road, including a setback in Oakland on Sunday in which he gave up two runs on six hits and three walks in six frames. Greinke has yet to lose to Miami in his career, going 5-0 with a 3.77 ERA in nine starts and one relief appearance.

Rating: 3 Units

Underestimate the Wolverines at your own peril. If any team looks like it could jam the gear box on the well-tuned Villanova engine with its pistons all firing at the same time, it might be Michigan. The reason? Despite all of the hoopla about the Cats’ three-point shooting exploits, defense still travels in March (or, as it will on Monday night, April 2). And lately no team has been defending any better than the Wolverines, allowing foes a measly 0.88 points per possession in the Dance. Though not explosive on the scale of Villanova, the well-constructed passing game of Loyola-Chicago, which had been functioning with the efficiency of a Swiss watch in March, was discombobulated in Saturday’s other semifinal. The Ramblers were limited to season lows in attempts and makes beyond the arc and an astounding 24 of their 27 secondhalf FG attempts were contested. Michigan has also been adept at running foes off of the 3-point line in the Dance; opponents have connected on only 18 triples in the five games combined, which is the same number as ‘Nova’s successful conversions from downtown against the Jayhawks. Though the Wildcats will obviously provide the Wolverines with their toughest test, the corollary might be true as well. John Beilein’s troops have been digging in on the stop end all season, as ball screens are nullified, cutters are covered, and open looks are denied. Moreover, Big Dance foes have been connecting on only 40% of their two-point shots, with the Wolverines especially unrelenting on shots inside the arc. The “team defense” concept has been exemplified by Michigan, all the more impressive as Beilein does not own a true rim protector on the stop end.

In conclusion, while I greatly respect Villanova, the Cats are still heavily reliant on the 3-ball, and are not immune to extended cold snaps, or even defeats, as evidenced by a handful of losses this season and a few other close calls. Keep in mind that ‘Nova’s offense was not working as recently as the Elite 8, when Texas Tech might have been able to pull the upset had it been a bit more efficient on the offensive end. The Cats will also not be dealing with the sort of brisk pace that Kansas provided in Saturday’s semi-scrimmage; the Wolverines are adept at controlling tempo, allowing only 62.9 ppg, ranking 8th nationally, which makes us believe the mid 140s “total” might be a bit too high. The respected tactician Beilein is also a 67% play vs. the spread (14-7-2) in past NCAA Tourneys with Michigan.

Rating: 4 Unit Sweet 16 Game of the Week

I have thought that for much of the season, Nova was the best team in the country on the most nights. Though the Wildcats are hardly immune, having been dumped by Butler, St. John’s, and Providence along the way. Those losses, however, might be a valuable tool for a Nova bunch that, while still owning a couple of pieces from its dramatic title run in 2016, also has components that recall last year’s early sub-regional exit courtesy of Wisconsin, as well as those three losses this season, which Wright will make sure erase any overconfidence on his veteran squad.

Rating: 3 Units

The Boilermakers held Butler, which averages 8.3 triples, to just one 3-pointer in the first 28 minutes in their December victory while building a 26-point lead. Sophomore guard Carsen Edwards, who leads the team in scoring (18.4 points), had a team-high 18 points in the first meeting with the Bulldogs, while senior forward Vincent Edwards, who is third on the team in scoring (14.5), finished with 15 points, including 4-of-5 3-pointers. Senior guard Dakota Mathias is also averaging in double figures (12.3) and has connected on 92-of-199 3-pointers. The Boilermakers are 21-0 this year when shooting 48 percent or better from the field.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Mismatch of the Day

Middle Tennessee State is 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600, 40-15-1 ATS in their last 56 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400, 48-18-2 ATS in their last 68 home games vs. a team with a losing road record, and 37-16 ATS in their last 53 games vs. a team with a winning straight up record. While Marshall is 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings vs Middle Tennessee State and 0-6 ATS in the last 6 meetings at Middle Tennessee St..

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

Utah is  38-13-2 ATS in their last 53 home games vs. a team with a losing road record, 40-14-2 ATS in their last 56 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400, and 35-17-1 ATS in their last 53 Saturday games. While Colorado is 18-38-1 ATS in their last 57 road games, 17-36-1 ATS in their last 54 road games vs. a team with a winning home record, and 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. While Colorado is 3-10 ATS in the last 13 meetings with Utah.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

The Wildcats struggled without Trier on Thursday at 10th-place Oregon State, needing two free throws by Rawle Alkins with 14 seconds left in regulation to push the game to overtime, where they finally pulled away for a 75-65 victory. Oregon got a much-needed win against No. 25 Arizona State on Thursday, and that should give the Ducks added confidence against the Wildcats, who beat Oregon 90-83 behind 25 points from Trier on Jan. 13. The Ducks enter the weekend tied for sixth in the conference with Washington, and they can leapfrog a few more teams with a strong finish against Arizona and at Washington State and Washington next week. The Ducks haven't finished lower than third in the Pac-12 since finishing seventh in 2010-11, when it was still the Pac-10.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

Since defeating Baylor in early January, West Virginia has been on a steady downhill spiral. The 21st-ranked Mountaineers aim to stop the bleeding today when they visit the Bears in Big 12 action. West Virginia nipped Baylor 57-54 on Jan. 9 as senior guard Jevon Carter, the heart and soul of the team, knocked down the decisive 3-pointer in the final minute. Carter is enjoying a terrific senior season, but his team still has lost seven of 11 since the win over the Bears. Baylor has followed a four-game losing streak by winning its last five, including massive victories against Kansas and Texas Tech in the last 10 days.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAB Play of the Day

Wisconsin has won seven straight meetings with Minnesota dating back to 2014. The Gophers have been hit hard by injuries to several key players. Amir Coffey and Dupree McBrayer are questionable for Monday's game. In addition, the Golden Gophers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games versus teams with a losing record., 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss, and 1-7 ATS in their last 8 versus the Big Ten.

Rating: 3 Units Bowl Game of the Day

This year's 'Tide hasn't been as overpowering as usual, with but one cover vs bowl opponents, which is mainly due to a "D" that has suffered an abnormal amount of injuries. But even with that, they rank 3rd, 7th, 1st, & 2nd in run, pass, scoring, & total "D". So, still a huge force. The last 2 years, we've bucked the Tigers in their semi-final games vs Oklahoma & Ohio State. Mistake & mistake, as CU (-3½, +1½) dominated both with a combined score of 68-17, and a 1,000-593 yd edge! Absolutely stunning, especially in light of the fact that both the Sooners & Buckeyes entered with identical 11-1 records. Dabo sure can coach. QB Bryant is no Watson, but Tigers more than match for anyone. Take the points

Rating: 3 Unit Bowl Game of the Day

The Bulldogs have been one of our "goto" squads this year, with their 8 wins coming by an average of 21 points per game SU, & 10.2 points per game ATS, but also heed 2 of their 4 losses coming by 28, 39 points (#3 Georgia, #7 Auburn). Their offensive fireworks have overshadowed one of the finest stop units in the land (#10). They have, however, lost the services of QB Fitzgerald, who, like his predecessor, Dak Prescott, could do it all, both overhead (1,782 passing yards, 56%, 15/11), & overland (984 rushing yards, 14 TDs). And how about seeing 9th-yr HC Mullen leave for the Florida Gators. This all adds up to solid win for dedicated Cards.

Rating: 4 Unit Bowl Game of the Week

For the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest, this marks just their 12th bowl game, the first coming in their 26-14 win over South Carolina, in the '46 Gator Bowl, & the latest, in last year's Military Bowl, when, as 11-pt underdogs vs Temple, they jumped to a 31-7 lead, holding on for the 34-26 win. That one was noteworthy for 2 reasons: the fact that the Owls entered on a 10-0 ATS run; & holding Temple to minus 20 RYs, (TU at 190 RYpg at game time). For Wake, back-to-back bowl seasons, on the heels of 8 straight losing campaigns, including 3-9 records in '14 & '15. They're led by QB Wolford, who ranks 10th in passing efficiency, throwing for 2,792 yards, 64%, & a sensational 25/6. In back-to-back-to-back games vs Louisville, NoDame & Syracuse, he threw for 1,155 yds, 69%, & 10/1, leading Wake to 143 points, Oh, in that Syracuse game, Deacs turned a 17-pt second half deficit, into a 21-point win. So not much wrong with Deacs' 27th, ranked "O", nor a spread streak that now stands at 16-6-1.

Rating: 3 Unit Bowl Game of the Day

The Cowboys are an annual fixture among the elites, placing 9th in our "Polls" this year. The arrival of Mike Gundy in '05, has resulted in 12 straight bowl seasons, with at least 10 wins in 5 of the past 7 years, nearly meeting for the '11 national title game, before an impossible 37-31 loss to 26½ pt underdog on week #11 shattered that dream. They have been led by brilliant QB Rudolph (4,553 yards, 65%, & 35/9), who has thrown for 13,267 yards in his career, & 84/22 the past 3 years. But he isn't the only cog in this wheel, as Hill is at 1,347 RYs (14 TDs), & WRs Washington & Ateman have combined for 2,572 receiving yards, averaging 20.6 & 19.4 yards per catch. Oklahoma State ranks 3rd in scoring, 1st in passing, & 2nd in total "O". Can Tech's 5th & 10th ranked scoring & total "D" contain 'em. No way.

Rating: 3 Unit Bowl Game of the Week

There has only bee two teams that have outplayed every one of their opponents this season, the mighty Sooners of Oklahoma, & the unnoticed Bulls of South Florida. So, moving the ball has hardly been a problem, especially since the prolific Quinton Flowers took over the leadership role in '15. He has amassed 11,201 yards the past 3 years, with USF compiling a 28-9 SU record, while gracing the Miami Beach & Birmingham Bowls, prior to this year's defense of the latter bowl. His worth is nearly impossible to overstate. Just check USF's season finale game with a perfect Central Florida, where he piled up 503 passing yards with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception along with 102 rushing yards, tying it on an 83-yard TD pass in the final 1:41, only to lose on a TD return of the ensuing KO. This marks the Bulls' 3rd straight bowl game, & 9th in the last 13 years. The line on this one is a bit perplexing, as the balanced attack of the Bulls seems to more than counter Tech's one-dimensional offense

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Six straight wins for the 'Cats, while on an 8-1 ATS run. Check a 32-point cover at always dangerous Minnesota, doubling Gopher yardage output, & registering 5 take aways. On 16-5-1 spread run. Illinois in off 3-point cover at Ohio State, despite a 438-yard deficit, & 5 first downs. Nine straight losses

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Right, Hogs put it to us in narrow loss to Mississippi State, despite a 195-97 rushing yard deficit. But have ceded 38.4 points per game in their last 10 underdog roles. Tigers smoking, with 5 straight wins & 7 straight covers: 260-83 point edge in their L5 games (+126 points ATS). And QB Luck is stratospheric 38 touchdowns with 10 interceptions. Lay it.

Rating: 4 Unit ACC Game of the Week

Deacons something else, with a 734-621 yard edge over Syracuse, with a 43-5 point windup. Wolford last two weeks: 694 passing yards. The dog is 6-2-1 ATS in Wolfpack games this year, but note a 778-424 rushing yard deficit the past 3 weeks. Finley now 15 touchdowns with 4 interceptions, but can't ignore host owning this series.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Lions seemed to shake off woes of incredible losses to Ohio State & Michigan State, with 35-6 romp of Rutgers, but note just 304 yards, with Bradley now at 33rd in the land in rushing. 'Huskers a 340-rushing yard deficit in 54-21 loss to Minnesota. And note allowing 43.7 points per game in last 9 underdog roles

Rating: 3 Unit SEC Play of the Day

Bulldogs stayed with Alabama, losing in final 0:25. The host has a 255-91 point edge in Mississippi State games this year, but note 'Dogs covering their last road game by 18½. Hogs are barely competitive, with their 2 covers by ½ & 4 points. And they're allowing 39.6 points per game in last their 9 dog role setups.

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Alabama not all that impressive in win over LSU, with 151-116 rushing yard & 306-299 total yard deficits. But never down for long, with 59-0 & 41-9 wins off L2 ATS setbacks. Bulldogs peeked to this one in 22 point ATS loss to U Mass. Eleventh in rushing, but Alabama defense will be ready. Lay it

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

Five straight wins for FAU, with a 237-132 point edge (+80½ points ATS). Check Singletary at 140 rushing yards per game & 19 touchdowns. Bulldogs in weekly squeakers, & in off 100-yard deficit vs North Texas. FAU call.

Rating; 4 Unit ACC Game of the Week

About time that I jumped on this legitimate train that is BC. Not only 6 straight covers, by a combined 119 points ATS, but check +98½ points in their last 3 games, including upsets of Louisville, Virginia, & Florida State, with the latter 2 by 31 & 32 points SU! Are rested, to boot, while facing a Wolfpack outfit that is in off no less than #3 Notre Dame, & #4 Clemson. No questioning the fact that NC State QB Finley is the real deal, but check a 542-203 rushing yard deficit past 2 weeks. Climbing off the carpet vs this oncoming train, is unlikely

Rating: 3 Unit PAC-12 Play of the Day

Home team in California games is 7-0 ATS (+125 points), but Bears just 288 passing yards per game in their L3 home games, while the Beavers suddenly an offensive force (833-607 yard edge vs Colorado & Stanford). However, I am going to the perfect ATS mark for the home team.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

The Irish are cementing their place by the week. Check 318-50 rushing yard edge over North Carolina State, on the heels of a 377-76 rushing yard edge over Southern California. Deacon QB Wolford blitzed Louisville with 461 passing yards along with 5 touchdowns and 0 interceptions, with TD passes of 32, 25, 52, 55 yards. No team has topped 20 points vs Notre Dame this year. Give the points.

Rating: 4 Unit PAC-12 Game of the Week

Washington State doesn't fool around when they lose, with setbacks of 34 & 21 points. However, they bounced back from 1st loss with 18-point home cover. 32 first downs & 602 passing yards for naught: 58-37 loss at Arizona. Stanford lucked out (fumble recovery & touchdown in L0:20) vs Oregon State, & lost to Washington State last year.

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Inter-Conference Game of the Week

The Irish sure came through in annihilation of Southern California, with 377-76 rushing yard edge, behind both Adams & Wimbush (191, 106). Now at +114½ points ATS this year. But NC State is on 6-0 SU run, ranking 6th in rushing defense. However, no team has scored more than 20 points vs the Irish this year.  The Irish keep on winning.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-12 Game of the Week

This is one that Kansas State rarely let get away, with 7-1 & 18-5 ATS margins. Enter off 3 straight losses (2-of-3 in OT, & in L0:07). Check 263 rushing yards vs Oklahoma. Kansas has a 153-19 point deficit in their last 3 games, managing 9 first downs & only 83 yards combined in their last 2 games. Blowout!

Rating: 3 Unit Big-10 Play of the Day

Lucky 1-point cover for Badgers last week, with just a 215-143 rushing yard edge. But they have the horses, with Taylor 3rd-rated runner, & Hornibrook 9th-ranked passer. Wisconsin just 12 points from a 19-4 ATS run. Illinois stayed with Minnesota, despite 292-121 rushing yard deficit (cover in L0:23). Maybe last week, but not here.

Rating: 4 Unit Inter-Conference Game of the Week

Another win, another spread loss for the Trojans, who are in off stopping Utah's 2-point try in the L0:42, for a 28-27 win. Check Darnold in that one: 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. A rarity this year as he has 15 touchdowns with 9 interceptions for the season. The Irish come in 1 point from perfection and are +63 points ATS, holding all opponents below 21 points. I'll lay small spot.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Again-&-Again. Check Central Florida's 253-84 point edge so far (+88½ points ATS). Nicely balanced, behind #2 ranked QB Milton (37-of-46 in the last 2 weeks). Navy got the bacon with touchdown & 2-point conversion in last 3:25 at Memphis, despite 5 turn overs. The number 1 rushing offense in Navy, but no matching defense.

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Maryland has had their moments, to be sure (29 & 20 point covers vs Texas & Minnesota), but were mauled in each of their 3 losses (32½, 18, 13 point ATS misses), with a 769-177 rushing yard deficit. That being the case, the Badgers (264-79 rushing yards per game edge) could and should have a field day

Rating: 4 Unit NCAAF Game of the Week

They continue to impress. Knights now own a 190-46 point edge (+82½ points ATS). QB Milton 16-of-19 (374 yards) last week, & nation's 2nd rated passer with 13 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions. Solidly balanced offense. Pirates are the pits, allowing no less than 51.8 points per game in their L9 games. Take the Knights no matter the line.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Navy is 5-0 for just the 2nd time since '79, & why not, with the nation's #1 rushing offense (414.2 yards per game), behind Abey. Memphis can also light it up. QB Ferguson had 431 passing yards with 7 touchdowns vs UConn. However, the Visitor is 8-0 ATS in Navy games.  I can't pass that up.

Rating: 4 Unit Conference USA Game of the Week

What happened to that 28 points per game offense of Marshall in 14-3 win over Charlotte & its 102nd defense?  Not to worry, they should regain former pizazz vs Old Dominion defense which has 149-51 point deficit in its last three games (-54½ points ATS).

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

Yes, I know that the Vanderbilt normally is the series play, but  Georgia is riding high: 5-0 ATS (+81 points), 72-3 point edge the last 2 weeks, holding Tennessee to 7 first downs, 142 yards, & ranking 2nd, 3rd, in scoring, total defense. Vanderbilt a 714-86 rushing yard deficit in the last 2 weeks. Home field didn't help vs Alabama and it won't help here either.

Rating: 3 Unit SEC Play of the  Day

Once the Tigers get in the groove, they are nearly unstoppable. And a 100-24 point edge over the last 2 weeks (500 passing yards & +49½ points) proves that they are there. Rank 6th & 9th in scoring & total defense. Mississippi has one of the worst rushing offenses in the land. QB Patterson (361.5 passing yards per game) bit that's not enough.

Rating: 3 Unit ACC Play of the Day

Until they lose. The Hokies have been a study in consistency, with current 7-0 ATS run. Check 85-0 point run since trailing East Carolina, along with frosh QB Jackson's 282 passing yards per game with 11 touchdowns and only 1 interception. Tigers now at 43.9 points per game in their L11 games, with 639 rushing yards in their last 2 games, while owning 3rd best defense

Rating: 4 Unit Big-10 Game of the Week

Penn State had dropped 2-of-3 to the points, but still on an 11-2 spread run. Check Barkley in last week's heart stopping win at Iowa: 211 rushing yards (7.8 yards per rush) & a school-record 358 all-purpose yards. Penn State now at 46.4 points per game in L13 games. Indiana is improved, but owned worst run offense in the land before Georgia Southern.

Rating: 4 Unit  Big-12 Game of the Week

The dog is a splendid 11-4 ATS in Baylor games, including last week's near upset of 3rd-ranked Oklahoma, despite a rushing yard deficit of 342-60, but a 463 passing yard (4 touchdowns with 0 interceptions) display from Smith. Rested Kansas State return to friendly confines of Manhattan, resolved to bounce back off 7-point effort at Vandy.

Rating: 3 Unit NCAAF Play of the Day

Kentucky trailed South Carolina 6-0 on the 1st play, but immediately applied the clamps in 20-13 win (184-54 rushing yard edge), with nicely balanced offense. The Gators are doing it with mirrors. Just 14 first downs but a "Hail Mary" to beat Tenn. They've topped 20 points in only 4 of last 11 games.

Rating: 4 Unit SEC Game of the Week

The Mississippi State scoring machine proved its worth vs Lsu's always rock solid defense: 25-13 first down and 285-133 rushing yard edges. Mississippi State's last 4 covers: 19, 44, 26½, 37 points. Ten returning defensive starters have the Georgia stop unit at #16 in land, but note their offense coming in at 85th. Can't give points in a conference battle.