Taking LIPSCOMB. Think these guys played a little better schedule and are a little better overall. We had both teams in Round 1, and unfortunately, they face each other here. Just another tournament putting mid-majors against each other so they don't beat Power 5 middling schools. Lipscomb lost 2 tough games to Belmont. They beat SMU, TCU. Really beat up a good Vermont team. Beat other middies Morehead State and Midd Tenn State. Lost at Louisville and Clemson. Shame they aren't in the NCAAs with who they played. NCG lost to LSU and Kentucky but were crushed by Wofford. I put Lipscomb obviously closer to Wofford than Kentucky. But fact remains NCG didn't  step up when it needed to. 5* Best Bet LIPSCOMB

Taking VIRGINIA TECH. So I think we saw STL really shoot the moon in the A-10 tournament. Would love to see them make a run here. But I can't see that happening. This VT team is very good. You hear about Virginia, Duke and NC out of the ACC, but don't sleep on the Hokies. 8* Sure Shot VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES

Taking UCF. Just think that they have too much size for VCU. Rams coming in off tough loss in A10 Championship game. They lose a key piece in Evans. Maybe he plays -No clue as I write this on Tuesday, but zero chance he will be close to 100% if he gets on the floor. UCF a tough team. Beat Houston on the road and Cincy in back to back to spots- then dropped a tough roadie at Temple who always brings it. Obviously they have to get by VCU first, but I will be interested in them vs Duke in the next round. 8* Sure Shot UCF 

Taking IRVINE. So, Wade plays and is 100%, I think this line is higher. But if he's out or plays in a limited fashion, have to still side with Irvine. Right off the bat - this game is in San Jose. I don't know California, but I know Irivine does play here. It isn't like their fans are flying in from Kansas. They will have the crowd behind them. And in an early game like this, it will be noticeable. You beat a team in your conference tournament championship by 30, that interests me. That is a team that you play twice a year and knows your ins and outs over the years. 16 straight wins and 19 of 20. 5* Best Bet CAL IRVINE 

Taking OLD DOMINION. This team won't mind playing a slow, banging pace. And the double digits are just a bonus. I think OD wins this outright. Really. If this game isn't withing 10 I would be shocked. CUSA always shows up in the NCAAs.. Last year Marshall 13 seed won first round. Year before, 12 seed Middle Tenn State wins 1st round. Before that - 15 Mid Tenn over #2 Michigan State. 14 UAB over 3 seed Iowa before that. We have to go back to 2013-2014 to find CUSA not getting bounced in the first round. 10* Money Bomb OLD DOMINION 

Taking CENTRAL MICHIGAN. Will gladly grab a MAC dog vs an average, at best Big East team. 4-6 run for DePaul and 7-3 for CMU. I always feel the smaller conference has the edge. The line is a bonus. I think we win outright. 10-0-1 ATS run for them last 11 games and 16-4-1 ATS last 21 overall. 5* Best Bet CENTRAL MICHIGAN 

Taking WICHITA. I love me some Furman, but this is too many points for me to pass up. I think this line is probably double what it should be. 4* Money Maker WICHITA STATE 

Taking TOLEDO. I am going to jump on some +190 ML also. Big brother/ little brother in state battle. You know the Rockets want to come hard at these guys. MAC trying to get some street cred. Starts with knocking out a bigger name program - this one, an in state rival. Creighton - what team is showing up? The one that lost 6 straight? The one that won 6 straight?  They are 4-10 ATS in their 14 games going off as a fave. Toledo much more consistent on the year. Buffalo only team to really run them out of a game. 8* Sure Shot TOLEDO ROCKETS 

Taking OREGON. These guys playing very well right now. Won't be shocked when they win PAC 12 - and maybe make a Sweet 16 run. A perfect 6-0 ATS/ SU run for Ducks. Beat ASU by 28 a couple weeks ago. Get your ticket and get out of the way of the Ducks. Simply rolling right now. 8* Sure Shot OREGON DUCKS 

Taking SOUTHERN MISS. 101-51 was the score back in January. Marshall comes in hot with 5 straight win, and that big revenge spot. Think this could be the best team in CUSA. 8* Sure Shot SOUTHERN MISS 

Taking WESTERN KENTUCKY. Had NT yesterday in a nice easy win, but not today. WKU is pretty talented. Won't be shocked to see them cut down the nets. 5* Best Bet WESTERN KENTUCKY

Taking WASHINGTON. You win a crap conference by a full 3 games, you better take care of a bad USC team. You take care of business, win this by a dozen and move on. 5* Best Bet WASHINGTON HUSKIES

Taking VIRGINIA. Time for the long road back. We know what happened in the NCAAs last year. So does the team. They look a little different to me this season. I think they easily dispatch NCST this afternoon. Should be a 15-20pt win for VA.  10* Money Bomb VIRGINIA 

Taking LAMAR. These guys might be the 5 seed, but I think they are top in Southland Conference. These 2 split, Lamar rolling 110-75 end of February, and Houston Baptist scoring a 88-82 OT win to begin the year. Lamar with 8 straight wins and 10 in their last 11. 5* Best Bet LAMAR

Taking VIRGINIA TECH. Not high on Miami. They didn't impress me yesterday. I think VT crashes the semis on Friday and will face Top Seed Virginia. That was Miami's first win on the road since what, before Thanksgiving! Hokies win this by 10+. 8* Sure Shot VIRGINIA TECH 

Taking GONZAGA. Had these guys last night, will do it again. As I said in yesterday's write up. 34-28-48-30-30-59-23-31-43-35-45-61-34-42-23-37-41 -- How about those margins of victory for Gonzaga? We can dd last nights 26 point winner to that list. Again. Beat Mary's already by 16 and 38. This is 15-20 win. 5* Best Bet GONAZAGA

Taking OMAHA. I have these guys favored and we are getting points. I know that most times I am on a higher seed that is favored. But this line is so short that I toss that aside. Omaha with a 74-71 home win back in February and 85-79 OT win on the road in January. Coming hot winning 8 of 9 while FT Wayne resounding win over South Dak snapped a 4 game losing streak. Omaha was 14-3 in conference play with 2 losses to Oral Roberts and one to the ousted 1 seed South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Since 2010, teams trying to get that 3rd game revenge have failed at a 72% clip. I liked these guys at +600 before the Tourney so I am not shying away now. Ne-Om on a 10-3 ATS run in Summit Play. 10* Money Bomb NEBRASKA OMAHA MAVERICKS 

Taking WOFFORD. Tough to knock on NCG who we made some coin on this season. But Wofford a beast. 20-0 in conference play. Beat these guys by 30 and 29 already this year. Greenboro 17-3 in conference play with those blowouts hanging over their head. I know you think they will come out strong in revenge and, get that taste of their mouth type game. But I don't see it. These are more than convincing wins. Greenboro off a dog-fight win over 'money earning' Furman. So Con Champs 5* Best Bet WOFFORD TERRIERS 

Taking HOFSTRA. Faded Delaware yesterday and was looking good until they hit 8 straight 3's and 9 in 10 shots to turn a deficit into a nice lead. Not a chance they get hot like that again. Not happening. Pride went 16-3 in CAA play and destroyed these guys already this year - 92-70 on the road and 91-46 at home. Blue Hens 2-9-1 ATS run. Blowout. 10* Money Bomb HOFSTRA PRIDE 

Taking CINCINNATI. Can't take anything away from Houston 28-2 on the year with a 5 point loss to UCF and 4 point road loss at Temple. 15-2 atop AAC. Cincy 14-3. Big game for them in home finale. I'm going with the home team and better defense. Unders have gone 9-1 last 10 in this series so we know defense prevails. 5* Best Bet CINCINNATI BEARCATS 

Taking the SPURS. These guys just a better team at home than on the road. Pop the best coach in the NBA. 5* Best Bet SAN ANTONIO SPURS 

Taking LSU. I am sick to my stomach seeing that Florida is a possible NCAA bubble team. Is that a joke? Please, give me some one out of the SoCon - Sun Belt- ASun - Ohio Valley instead. Give me CAA and CUSA. Liberty, Wofford, Greensboro, Lipscomb, Radford, Northeastern, North Texas, Furman. I can go on and on. Oh, Indiana. As a 10. Stop. LSU for the love of all that is holy, destroy this Gators team please. (there is my Tourney Rant for now) -- Florida on a 1-7 ATS run through SEC play while LSU enjoys a 9-3 ATS run in conference action. LSU on a 14-1 run with their lone by a point. 7-7 run over last 14 for Gators. Fave 4-0-1 ATS last 5 in the series. Home team 3-1-1 ATS last 5 in the series. LSU 5-2 ATS last 7 at home vs Florida. 8* Sure Shot LSU 

Taking SAN DIEGO. Home team on a 8-1 ATS run in the series which adds to our BYU run of 3-11 ATS last 14 on the road. BYU 8-3 in conference while SD 5-5. That doesn't matter to me - I think this team is on par with SF and St Mary's, who, dealt BYU road losses of 19 and 22. 5* Best Bet SAN DIEGO 

Taking NORTH CAROLINA. No way Virginia losses 2 in a row right? I mean, 2 losses to Duke and that's it. NC quietly sitting at 9-1 in the ACC. I know that VA dictates the pace in this series. But that being said, I am just not sold on the Cavaliers. Roy Williams is a bit over-rated in my eyes. I think he just lets his talent take over on the court and not really 'coach.' Back to the pace. Even with NC scoring over 70 just once the last 6 meetings, I am backing the home dog. 5* Best Bet NORTH CAROLINA 

Taking BAYLOR. Like the way these guys have playing. Crashing the offense glass and hitting 3s. Raise your hand if you had these guys at 4-2 in Big 12 play ending January? A new guy seems to step up every game. That is how you win with balanced offensive efficiency. Just too many points to give a hot team with a balanced attack. 5* Best Bet BAYLOR BEARS 

Taking the CHIEFS. So I would really be looking to move on the ML if it gets to about -130. But for the sites here, we will lay the 3 points. I think money will come in on Brady. I had the Chargers last week, and I wish I could have gotten out of it on the sites as by Friday, it seemed the entire world was fading the Patriots. I think the cold and travel was just too much to overcome when you have a NE team on a 16-0 13-3 ATS run at home over their last 16 games. We took that loss and look to bounce back today. KC is tough at home. I know the defense isn't that good, but here, they play a lot better. I think that is the difference maker. Brady and the Patriots haven't won a road playoff game since 2007! Ok, that is 3 Super Bowl losses and a loss at Denver - Look, we have seen NE struggle on the road this season. 3-5. Jags and Lions took it to them. Titans took it to them. 43-40 at home vs KC this year. Last year, Alex Smith 4 TDs 368 yards in a 42-27 KC win. I know Andy Reid doesn't get much love. But he has shown he is tough vs NE. I know it is tough taking Reid and rookie QB over Brady and The Hoodie. Pats scoring and defense all trend down on the road. 5* Best Bet KC CHIEFS 

Taking the SAINTS. Pretty easy thinking here for me. Right off the bat, I though they would roll over Philly last week. That first quarter sunk any hope of a big win. But we move on. So home teams in Championship Round a perfect 10-0 SU and 8-2 ATS. New Orleans defense also playing much better football. Forget that last game vs Carolina. That was an exhibition game for the Saints. We remove those 33 points and we see NO defense giving up 14.5ppg. Also. Rams at home, 1 team, Rams on the road, a different team. How about Goff with 10TD 9INTs on the road this year. I'll back Brees and Payton, the old guys, over the new kids on the block, McVay and Goff. 5* Best Bet NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 

Taking SAINTS. So 3rd straight road game and 5th in 6 weeks for Eagles. That is a tough run. Especially when every game is a playoff a game. Saints at home, rested, very dangerous. Yes, we can say, oh 48-7, should be just as easy. Well. I do think this is a 2 score win for New Orleans. Will it be a 40 pt win, that would be nice, but I don't think so. Now, Could the Saints get 48 again. Of course. Look. Mitch Trubisky just passed or 300 yards on this defense. Brees could have 250 at the half. Please throw out their final loss at home to Carolina. That was a pre-season finale game with the players they used. Saints getting knocked basically for a 3 game run of losing at Dallas, a sluggish game at the Bucs. And a horrible win over the Panthers 12-9. They go 2-1 and win ugly. They won ugly at Minnesota. That is what a great team will do. Eagles defensive backs to not put any scare into me. Brees will do Brees in the dome Playoff stuff. 3-4 TDs 325+ yards. - Back to Philly. I like Foles. Thought he should have gotten the nod the entire season or most of it. Guy can play a bit, and it's clear the players rally around him. But that being said - Eagles a great Cinderella story last year. But Cinderella only goes to the ball once. Season turns into a pumpkin this evening. 10* Money Bomb NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 

Taking the CHARGERS, again. Cashed last week and a little too close for comfort. But that is what happens when you are in cruise control most of the game. That won't be the case vs the Patriots. Who needs extra motivation to play these guys? Look. I have been on the Chargers numerous times this year. We have seen these guys win at Seattle, Pitt, Baltimore and KC. Technically, undefeated on the road since they had a 'road' loss at the Rams. It isn't like they have a great home field in that joke Center they play in. Bosa and Ingram can and will get pressure on Brady. He will be whining early when he starts getting knocked around. They say maybe snow. It won't matter. Chargers can run the ball or just do the short passing thing to move the chains. This is not a vintage Patriots team. We know this. Loss at Jacksonville and Detroit in back to back weeks. Lost at Tennessee. That crazy loss at Miami. The loss at Pittsburgh. This is a tough, all around talented visitor coming to down. Not a pair of rookie QBs like the Pats have faced the last 2 weeks. This is a HOF QB getting points with arguable the better defense and offenses that aren't that far apart. Sprinkle some ML. 5* Best Bet LA CHARGERS 

Taking DALLAS. Had these guys last week, back on them. Dak a total beast last week with the game on the line. But he is not new to comebacks. I think people forget a couple years ago he went toe to toe with a healthy, good Aaron Rodgers and just ran out of time as his terrible coach cost the team a win. Rams a good team. Coming in off bye, but before that taking Arizona and San Fran. But those QBs aren't Dak. And neither team has Zeke. Or even Amari. This team really changed with the arrival of Cooper. But let us not forget this defense either. Both teams with strong Ds - But maybe the Rams really peaked early. Is Gurley 100%? I know everyone is banged up after a season of football. Basically 3 weeks off. Will he be rusty? Good? Who knows? Let's not forget the Cooper Kupp loss. This is a lot of points for the Rams and Goff. Only his 2nd playoff start. 1st one wasn't that good. Dallas with house money getting a TD. Can eat clock and keep offense off the field. I think we have a live dog here. 5* Best Bet DALLAS COWBOYS 

Taking MICHIGAN STATE. Like this team a lot. Forget about Purdue rolling a 'ranked' team as a 10pt faves. Sparty is a totally different animal. This is a complete Final Four team. 5* Best Bet MICHIGAN STATE 

Taking the MIAMI HEAT tonight. Will unload the 10* Play on this one. Have to like this spot for the Heat. Home game, while catching Nuggets off loss at Houston. That was a 12pt loser. That is the game they probably wanted to win coming into a quick b2b road situation. They laid an egg. Nuggets good for playing down to teams. Now the Heat also in off a loss. But an absolute burial. 106-82 in Atlanta. You don't lose by 24 to that team. Huge bounce-back tonight. 10* Money Bomb MIAMI HEAT 

Taking BALL STATE. Now. Everyone knows Buffalo as the MAC darlings. But this is a sneaky good team. 4 top scorers back from last year. Every year getting better. They are the #1 team out of the West. EMU is a poor shooting team. When your top 2 scorers are 37 and 38% from the field and 36 and 27% from 3, you are going to have problems keeping pace with the Cardinals putting up nearly 85ppg. Last year, 58-41 EMU as Ball State shot 27%. Payback in big fashion. 8* Sure Shot BALL STATE 

Taking the CHARGERS. Had the Chargers a couple weeks ago at home and the Ravens hurt our bankroll. But will fade Baltimore again. LAC defense now with some good tape on Thomas. This is a good team. You don't go 7-1 on the road winning in every time zone in American, and London with fluke plays. The defense is a top 10 rush unit which is where the Ravens strength comes from. Let's just look at their road games. At Seattle where it is always tough to play (ask KC who lost there). Steelers did fade or choke their 2nd half away. But down 13-0 and 23-3 and winning. How about down 14-0 early and 28-21 late and winning in KC? Baker Mayfield just threw for 357 vs this defense. Yes, Baltimore won in LA after the Chargers were locked in the playoffs while Ravens were desperate. Now you have a rookie QB as a fave over a HOFer - No way. Take out that win in LA and Baltmore, 6-1 behind the rookie, beat the Bengals, Falcons, Raiders, Bucs and Browns. That's a 29-50-1 record and zero playoff teams. 10* Money Bomb LA CHARGERS 

Taking the COWBOYS today. 24-13 was the score back in September when these guys met in Seattle. Different teams now. Yes, Seattle has won 4 of the last 5 and 2 of the last 3. But do we want Matt Cassell at QB and Tony Romo in our ratings here. Let's look at Dak at QB and an 0-2 record losing 24-13 and 21-12. Not winning many games putting up 12.5 points a game. Dallas had played poorly in Jerry's World. But 7-1 this year. They have been playing well since November. And even losing fading them last week vs the Giants, you have to like that they wanted to win the game. Seattle just 4-4 on the road this year. 4 wins vs Raiders, Lions, Cardinals and Panthers. 4 teams with sub .500 records on the season. Lost at Denver by 3. Lost at San Fran by 3. Lost at Rams by 5. Lost at Bears by 7. Since their only home loss, Tenn MNF 28-14, the 'Boys have reeled off a 7-1 record. This game is basically a PK. I see -1's but will just go ML. As long as their crappy coach doesn't have his usual brain-farts, Dallas should be moving on the next round. 5* Best Bet DALLAS COWBOYS 

Taking TENNESSEE . This isn't football in January. Georgia beat these guys last year 73-62 at home, and hung tough 66-61 on the road blowing a nice half-time lead. Well. You caught them off a close game with Florida on deck. Then you got them off a pair of b2b road games. No such luck as this is a Vols team rested. This team is good. Georgia in a rebuild with a new HC. Vols can name their score, and I am thinking it should be 20. 8* Sure Shot TENNESSEE 

TEXAS TECH gets the call as our Top Rated 10* MONEY BOMB Game of the Week. Red Raiders crushed these guys last year 66-47 on the road and 74-58 at home. Kansas State down 2 key contributors. I get it. The next guy steps up. But good luck vs Texas Tech who brings the D. I don't think K-State gets more than 50 today. If Tech doesn't win by 20 I will be disappointed. 10* Money Bomb TEXAS TECH 

Taking OHIO STATE. Urban's swan song. We saw these guys destroy Michigan and their 'great defense.' Do we think that Washington has seen anything like this Buckeyes team in the PAC 12. Rose Bowl is a big deal for the conferences. But in today's day and age, they really are a step down from the Play-offs. This is all about motivation. And the OSU kids will want to send out their coach on a winning note. Not even going to overthink things. 10* Money Bomb OHIO STATE BUCKEYES

Taking CINCINNATI here. I am actually kind of shocked that this line moved down a bit. I thought it would be moving up. Not sure why there is so much love for Virginia Tech. Hokies had to pay Marshall to come play to qualify and be bowl eligible. I think the Herd took the payday and got ready for their bowl game (who we cashed with) as it was 21-7 after 1 and off to the races. Back to the Hokies. This isn't Beamer ball. These guys are giving up more than 30ppg. 6-6 vs 10-2 yes the line looks low. But I am backing the Bearcats with something to prove beating an ACC team. 5* Best Bet CINCINNATI BEARCATS 

Taking the VIKINGS. So we like the UNDER in this game also. Same thinking. If you like the Bears here, then you must be all over the 0-7 on the road SF 49ers beating the 12 win Rams as double digit dogs. No cover. Winning. I can't see it.  You are telling me the Bears will be pulling new tricks out of their bag, and throwing in new wrinkles to confuse Minny who they are more than likely playing again next week. They want to try to knock out the Vikes to face the defending champs, Eagles with Foles behind center who the team does nothing but rally behind? Not buying it. Taking the Vikings who seem to have turned the offense around since canning their OC. 8* Sure Shot MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Taking the RAVENS. Another Super Contest pick for me.. Tied for 42 heading into the final Sunday. So I like Baltimore. Everyone will be on the upstart Browns. I think this defense is too much for the rookie to deal with on the road. Ravens bringing some fire today - let's not forget a TD pass with 40 something seconds left, at home, to knock them out of the playoffs last year. Focused, they deliver us the W . 5* Best Bet BALTIMORE RAVENS 

Taking the BILLS. These guys haven't given up. They did lose (covered late) vs NE last week. But if we look at their 2 previous games at home. Beating the Lions and losing a tough one to the Jets. As we saw with the Jets vs GB, they haven't quit on their coach. This Bills team still has a pretty solid defense. And Miami wants no part of being in Buffalo in January. Back to teams showing fight. I think its safe to say the Dolphins have given up on their coach. We faded them 2 weeks ago in Minny and the Vikings ran them out of town. They still had a shot at the playoffs. And after scoring first to take a 7-0, Jags control the entire game. Nothing. No desperation. Jags off a loss to a 4th string QB picked up off the street. Where was their motivation? But pros with pride showed up for a road win. And as long as we are on road wins. How about Miami 1-11 SU last 12 on the road. 0-6 and 1-5 ATS last 6. Back on Dec. 2, Bills put up over 400 yards of offense and lost 21-17. That is what 3 TOs will do to a team on the road. 10* Money Bomb BUFFALO BILLS 

Taking SYRACUSE. I would have been on the Orange outright with or without Will Grier. Zero motivation for West Va. Big year for Babers and company in Syracuse. 10 wins a big deal for the team and coach. I think they pick their score and nothing closer than 10. 5* Best Bet SYRACUSE 

Taking VANDY. Won't be shy about laying a couple points even if Baylor has a bit of home edge playing in Texas. Bears come in losers in 4 of their last 6. Their wins, a TD pass with 6 seconds to go over Oklahoma State. And win over Texas Tech who canned their HC after the game. How about that Baylor didn't beat a team with a winning record this year? Vandy was competitive in their games. I give them a pass on getting run out by Georgia. The other bad loss was to South Carolina after they played ND on the road and lost 22-17. They just ran out of gas in the 2nd half to SC. They have better talent right now with Shurmur at QB and a 1000 yard RB averaging 7 yards a carry. 8* Sure Shot VANDERBILT 

Taking the RAIDERS here. Should really go ML here on the sites for +120. Final game here for Oakland. Should be an insane atmosphere. Now- Normally I like to fade home teams when they honor former players or come out with retired jerseys and so-on. But not here. We have a complete disaster on the other sideline with the Vance Joseph led Denver Broncos. Guy should have been canned for that FG on Saturday night. So Denver limps in officially eliminated from playoff action. Raiders have shown life playing at home. Dog outright tonight. 5* Best Bet OAKLAND RAIDERS 

Taking the COWBOYS. Only way to go in this spot. Off their first shut-out since Quincy Carter was their QB! Look. We had Indy last week. Real tough spot for the Cowboys off that OT Philly win. And a rough stretch in general. 5 straight. Road wins over Philly and Falcons. A Redskins game. That Saints Thursday nighter. A stinker was coming. It came. Let's not sell the Colts short either. They are a tough foe right now. So Bucs in a back to back road spot. 5 wins. Looks like they have lame duck coach who could be canned after the season. Perhaps the GM heads out also. As good as the TB QB tandem has been putting up points, 31 TDs it also has 15 INTs. And we won't talk about the terrible defense. Don't be confused by last week vs the Ravens. And I type that knowing we had Baltimore to get it done. Dak won't throw the ball 23 times for 131 yards. Amari Cooper could have 100 yards by half-time. Zeke will Zeke. Cowboys need to lock up their playoff spot. This is the spot. Now next week in New York with a wild-card game vs possible Seattle after that. They win this by double digits. Rest some guys vs the Giants. Ready for the playoffs. 10* Money Bomb DALLAS COWBOYS 

Taking the VIKINGS. Cashed with these guys last week, back on them again. I know that taking a division home dog in revenge spot is nice. Especially with a guy like Stattsford who can garbage time a back-door cover. But like last week, this play is based on the new OC getting things done. This team has been waiting to break out and I think with their season on the line again, we get another good effort. Let's not short change the defense that recorded 9 sacks last week. Safe to say Year 1 of the Patricia Era is closing out poorly. Lions scoring 16ppg and are getting out-yarded every week. Minny should crack 30 and this is a 10+ point win. 5* Best Bet MINNESOTA VIKINGS 

Taking ARMY today. Right off the bat you know Army is showing up big time for the Armed Forces Bowl. Army has won 3 straight bowl games over SMU, North Texas and San Diego State. Houston comes in with 2 straight bowl losses vs San Diego State and Fresno State. Where is the Cougar motivation? They lose their QB and were blitzed in their final game 52-31 by Memphis. We add game and we see the Cougars dropping 3 of their last 4. Army has reeled off 8 straight after losing by a TD at Oklahoma. Houston canned their DC, will be without their best DL and will also be missing some other key DL members. Black Knights roll. 10* Money Bomb ARMY 

Taking MARSHALL. So South Florida playing a quasi-home game - Do you really think that matters? Banged up QB - 5 straight losses , all by double digits by nearly 20ppg. The OC left for McNeese State. I think that is a step backwards! Look. Marshall defense very good. Doc Holiday a perfect 5-0 SU/ ATS in bowl action. Herd come in off loss at Va Tech. But don't fool yourselves. They got a nice payday from the Hokies to show up, lay down, and get VT bowl eligible. Low scoring affair that Marshall should wrap up 29-13. 5* Best Bet MARSHALL 

Taking IRVINE. This is a good little Big West team. They should about 25 games this year. That is nearly double of what this EMU team will put up. Don't be fooled by EMU 5-1 home record. Rochester College - Goshen - Central State for 3 wins. Drexel, who is a bad CAA team. And the Boston Terriers. This is a step up in competition. Should be a 10pt win. 5* Best Bet CAL IRVINE 

Taking the RAMS. LA offense sure didn't look good in Chicago. I think things will be different at home. Both teams in off losses. But Rams still battling for that home field with New Orleans. Eagles defense has been a MASH unit nearly all season. Dallas put up nearly 600 yards off offense. Again. Bears defense and the cold a lot different than this Philly team that looks like it sold its soul for last years Super Bowl Win. 38-17 sounds about right. 5* Best Bet LA RAMS 

Taking the TITANS here. Should really be playing +125/+130 that the sites are offering. I am trying to get back to that #1 NFL Capper Spot. No shame being ranked where I am right now. But we are looking forward to a big month here after we go 31-10 (76%) last December - Let's jump right in on the Giants. Are you really impressed with a 5-8 record. Wins over Mark Sanchez and the Redskins. Chase Daniel and the Bears in OT (and let's not forget Bears nearly lost at Arizona, lost at Miami. Totally different on the road) A final minute over the Nick Mullens led 49ers. A wild shoot out vs Tampa and back up QB Fitzharris before Winston came in. 7 straight losses. A last minute win over a backup QB. A wild-shoot out over a backup QB and the worse defense in the league. A loss to Philly. An OT win. And a gift bag of Mark Sanchez and Josh Johnson. Oh Christmas came early for sure for the GMEN. Give me Tennessee all day with extra rest. They will run over the soft Giants all afternoon. 10* Money Bomb TENNESSEE TITANS 

Taking the VIKINGS. This is it for Minny. Had these clowns Monday night and they were brutal. Canned their OC who was suppose to be the 'hot' name for one of the soon to be opened HC jobs in the NFL. Well. The smart money ain't on that happening now. I like this spot based on 2 things. One - that poor MNF performance and the canning of the OC and two. How about the clouds that Miami is coming in on? Nowhere to go but to have that bubble burst. Now. As having the Patriots last week I am shocked that they didn't try to get 7 and instead settle for a FG. Heck. Run another run play and have them try to go 97 yards or whatever. So- Miami off a huge win and could be a flat spot. Desperate Vikes need to win out. How about Dolphins 1-10 SU last 11 on the road. Yikes. 5* Best Bet MINNESOTA VIKINGS 

Taking the RAVENS. I know what everyone is thinking. Laying points like this with Lamar Jackson, and off that brutal OT game vs KC. I get it. You are worried. Well don't be. This Tampa defense, if it is plays more for the run, will give up chunks of yards, and enough points for a 10pt win. Did you miss the collapse last week (we got a miracle cover with NO) - plenty of mistakes to go around. Special teams looked like garbage. OL fell apart. Winston doing Winston things. How is that going to fly vs this Ravens defense coming in angry, vs a team that will be out of it's element and quite frankly, not a good team. As good as this TB QB combo is putting up 31 TD passes, they also have 24 INTs. I am sure we see at least 2 turnovers this afternoon. Tampa 2-12 SU last 14 on the road including a 3-9 ATS run in their most recent 12 games.  In 6 road games this season - 40 at New Orleans, 48 at Chicago, 34 at Atlanta, 37 at Cincinnati, 42 at Carolina, and 38 at NYG.  I know that this Baltimore team isn't the Greatest Show on Turf, but we will get our 30 today. 8* Sure Shot BALTIMORE RAVENS 

Taking FRESNO STATE. Big turn around for this program under Jeff Tedford. Not a chance in hell they take this game for granted. Mountain West vs PAC 12 and the little brother has something to prove. Nobody expected much from Herm Edwards at ASU. Yet, they are bowling. Good for him. But they will be without a huge piece of the offense as their star WR is sitting out getting ready for the NFL Draft. Bulldogs bring it and win this one going away. 5* Best Bet FRESNO STATE 

Taking NORTH TEXAS. Will also be sprinkling in some ML on Mean Green. Right off the bat. Where is the motivation for Utah State? Yeah. A great year. 10-2 - close loss at Michigan State. Ranked in the Top 25. But losing to Boise crushed their MWC Title hopes. So here they are in an early bowl game vs Conference USA, in the New Mexico Bowl, which they have been to already. To add insult to injury, their HC is off to greener pastures to take over Big 12 Texas Tech and probably will be bringing his OC and DC with him. North Texas gets a shot at 10 wins and win a bowl game. NT is the only team in FBS to not trail a team by more than 1 possession in a game this season! 3 losses in conference play by a combined 13 points (3-8-2). Live dogs. 8* Sure Shot NORTH TEXAS 

Taking KANSAS. As we said when we had Penn the other night. This is not last years Villanova team. Jayhawks by double digits. 5* Best Bet KANSAS

NFL and Bowl Games will be added today

Taking the CHARGERS. Lost with these guys last week as they sleep-walked setting for FGs last Sunday. I get it short week. Big, bad KC with their awesome rookie QB. They didn't have an easy Sunday as the Ravens took them to OT. And what I really take away from that, and why I had this circled early in the season. The defense. Not the Chargers defense. But the Ravens defense. That is like the old-school Steelers, Seahawks defenses of past. Where you get hit on every play. And the next game you are just mush. Baltimore brings that type of defense every game. And they got it for a game, plus OT. The short home week doesn't help them much other than sleeping in their own beds. I have been on LAC all season. This is a good team. The offense behind Rivers will carve up this KC defense. The Chargers defense isn't terrible. I think they can make some plays here. Bonus with the 3.5, but I won't be shocked at an outright win tonight. 8* Sure Shot LA CHARGERS 

Taking GREEN BAY. Not over thinking here. Dome team in cold weather. Aaron Rodgers gets his coach fired and I expect a huge day. Not just for him, but the entire offense. Defense is what it is. This is really a dead number - I don't think this is a FG game. This is GB running away by 2+ TDs as the Falcons, already sitting in last place, see their season slip away further. 10* Money Bomb GREEN BAY PACKERS. 

Taking the PATRIOTS. I am sure the 20 something people ahead of me in the Super Contest will be on the home dogs. They see Miami's 27-20 win last year and think more of the same. Well, we here Brady talking about how Dolphins play good and we don't in Miami. I am expecting more of what we have seen in 3 of the last 4 encounters between these two teams. They have been 35-7, 35-17 and 35-14. 5* Best Bet NE PATRIOTS 

Taking SEATTLE. Will lay this. Seattle hurt me last week as we had Caroline. Our only loser on a 7-1 Sunday of NFL action. This SF team has hit hard times. The offense is terrible. Can't see them putting up 14 here vs the Seahawks who look they are ready for a playoff push. Seattle 10-2-1 ATS last 13 in the series. Mullins or Beathard vs Wilson. I was never a huge Wilson fan. But the guy is great. Seattle going away 30-13. 5* Best Bet SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 

Taking the FALCONS. I actually took these guys early on one of my NJ Apps at +3. No way in heck should Lamar Jackson be favored here. Give me Ryan at home all day long. 11-3-1 ATS as dog or Pk.  I know Ravens have some defense in play. But Atlanta is not a bad team. I look for them to bounce back today. Baltimore hitting the road. A lot different in the dome vs these guys. Extra rest for the Dirty Birds. 8* Sure Shot ATLANTA FALCONS 

Taking the RAMS. The door to the 1 seed has reopened. LA fresh off their bye. This could get ugly. McVay has no problem running things up. We will see 40+ this afternoon. 10* Money Bomb LA RAMS 

Taking the OILERS. Grabbing Edmonton in a revenge spot from their 6-3 loss a couple weeks ago. After that loss, a coaching change, and a 3-1-1 run for Oilers. Vegas wrapping up a 3 game road trip. Oilers wrapping up a 3 game home stand. Home ice takes it. 5* Best Bet EDMONTON OILERS 

Taking OHIO STATE. So I am no fan of tOSU - But I will lay it and would lay 20 here. Fast track in the dome and I don't think Northwestern is keeping up. I know that Buckeyes have had some up and down performances. But not in Championship Games. They come to play, and Meyer won't be ashamed to run it up tonight. Last game on the card, so he will know how all the Sooners and Georgia did. I think Alabama, Clemson are locked in no matter the outcome of their games, plus ND. Who saw last week's butt-kicking of Michigan coming? Much like that 59-0 drubbing of Wisconsin in 2014 Championship Game. Not sure how Wildcats going to slow this machine done. No grass to help the cause. Ohio State has dropped 50+ 4 times and 49 on 2 more occasions. 10* Money Bomb OHIO STATE 

Taking ALABAMA today. My NJ Fan Dual app had this at 11 and I grabbed it.They sometimes have lines a couple points off, so that is nothing new. I feel just as fine laying this. We had the Tide last week. Eventually. This train breaks loose and it's a 20pt win. This isn't last year. Yes, Bulldogs with revenge for the Championship OT loss last year.  A full season, and a full game Tua is a tough match-up. I hate comparing how they do in SEC play. But, Alabama 29-0 at LSU and Georgia losses 36-16 at LSU. I'm going to lay it. 5* Best Bet ALABAMA 

Taking OKLAHOMA. Forget about Tom Herman dog trends. Big revenge spot for the Sooners. Oklahoma has a bad defense- Well, after spotting Texas 3 turnovers and a 45-24 lead, Oklahoma only reeled off a 21-3 4th quarter. Did Texas just sit on their heels? Or did the Sooners play some defense? 56 points allowed last week. But hey, 2 defensive TDs. I don't think Ehlinger can keep Texas in this thing. If you are telling me you know that Boomer Sooner is turning the ball over 3 times and Longhorns hold onto the ball and turn those into 21 points - then I can see taking Texas here. No way Texas slows these guys down. 7 times scoring more than 50. 10 times scoring more than 45. High Noon Assault in Jerry's World. 5* Best Bet OKLAHOMA SOONERS 

Taking GEORGIA STATE. I have GaSt as a Top 20 mid-major program. And as we have seen other times this year, no better time to take these guys vs a 'bigger' school. Always with a chip on their shoulder, you know you will get their 'A' game. These guys will win the Sun Belt and are led by conference POY. They just knocked off Georgia, and have beaten the Bonnies. I would put Tulane below those 2 programs right now. Tulane will most likely be pulling up the rear of the AAC. 5* Best Bet GEORGIA STATE 

Taking BALTIMORE. Looking to really move a bit here on the Ravens. Last week I took it right on the chin backing Arizona. What the heck are the Raiders doing winning games when they need that top draft pick? Oh. Carr says screw the draft, he wants to win. Well why I won't be shocked one bit when he is on the bench at halftime in say, a 16-3 game. He isn't going to be in Vegas. Gruden will be. Now from Arizona out the east coast vs a desperate Ravens squad. A bunch of 5-5 teams in the AFC. Baltimore needs to notch a win. Raiders had lost 5 straight games by at least 14 points before pulling out the W last week. I see this in the 27-13 range. 5* Best Bet BALTIMORE RAVENS 

Taking the PATRIOTS. Both teams in off bye weeks. Both in off losses. Pats on the road vs Titans as we backed Tennessee and their NE connections to a nice dog outright. Jets crushed at home by Bills. HC match-up is a complete mismatch. And one of them is having a rough go of things lately. NE has covered 3 of 4 off bye weeks and 13 of 17 off SU losses. Laying double digits to a division foe who plays you tough is a tricky spot. But as we toss in a rookie QB and the total state of Jets, a clearer picture comes into focus. At 7-3 NE has its work cut out for them if they want to be the 1 seed. It is a crowded room as Pitt 7-2-1, Houston 7-3, Chargers 7-3 are all looking at the 9-2 Chiefs. I'm thinking NE 27-13 with a couple of INTs by whoever is under center for NYJ. 8* Sure Shot NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 

Taking CAROLINA as our Top 10* today. Last we saw Seattle, they were beating the Packers for all the world to see. Extra rest helps the cross-country trip. But still a 10am body clock game. Panthers last see costing us bankroll in a game vs Detroit. Look. I have had Seattle as a rebuilding club all year. That isn't changing. Carolina at home is a big step up from win-less on the road Green Bay. Cam is usually on the money in his home games. I see this as a 10 point win for us. 10* Money Bomb CAROLINA PANTHERS 

Taking NOTRE DAME. I think ND is the real deal. We have see the Irish drop 40+ the last 3 meetings. Were any of those teams better than 5-6 SC team? I know you can rally around the, 'well it's their Super Bowl or whatever' I just can't get behind the Trojans in anyway tonight. ND, like other playoff teams, know they need to pass the eye test. And that is putting up points. They need to pull a 48-17 win on the road, in the books tonight. 8* Sure Shot NOTRE DAME

Taking SMU. Had these guys last game vs Memphis. Not only did they fail to cover, they did it a painful fashion with a missed 2pt conversion. Ouch. Look- SMU needs this W for their bowl birth. No let-down off that bad loss in site. Tulsa miserable this year. When they aren't turning the ball over, they are thinking about how to turn it off 3 possessions from now. Tulsa is 2-9 for a reason. They're bad. 10* Money Bomb SMU 

Taking the SAINTS, and will look for a 20+ point win. Look. Had these guys last week. And they rolled. And it looked like they went easy on Philly. Falcons in off loss to Dallas. We had the Cowboys and the points (lost the Over though). This is it for Atlanta. For you to be on the Falcons you have to be thinking they win out. They need to win their final 6 games for 10 wins and a playoff spot. They still have games at GB, Carolina and TB. And before you laugh at Tampa, just look at the points they put up. Plus games at home vs Baltimore and Arizona. And to tell you the truth, that isn't really weighing all that much on my play here. Rams won on Monday night. And for NO to hold that tie-breaker edge and home field through playoffs, they need to win. And this team isn't a win by a point team. Brees is on another level right now. He should carve up this defense like we will be carving up our Turkeys and Hams 3 hours prior to this kick-off. New Orleans again will toy with dropping a 50 spot. The sites don't have first half lines - But I can see NO jumping out to a fast lead by half-time if you want to sprinkle something on that. At this points, Saints really can just name their score vs teams. I think they want this 40pt streak to continue. The spots where I think NO is ripe for being picked off (though I was wrong at Cincy) is possibly Dallas next week or, playing their 3rd straight game at Carolina in 3 weeks. 5* Best Bet NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 

Taking the VIKINGS. Going ML. If you want to buy the 2.5 to 3, I guess that is fine. I just don't think we need the points. A nice spot with Minny coming off their bye. Playing better winning 4 of their last 5. Finally getting healthy. This is a great story going on in Chicago. Might be the only time that the Bears face a defense that is probably as good as theirs - Vikes can bring it on that side of the ball. Trubisky having a nice year. But the offense really gets rolling off the defense making plays. Bears missed 2 PATs and FGs last week. That can come back to haunt you vs good teams. This Minny team was suppose to be a top flight NFC contender. Like Zimmer to get it done on the road. 5* Best Bet MINNESOTA VIKINGS 

Taking the LAKERS here. I am a bit annoyed at myself since I had the Magic circled last night. Was so pre-occupied with college basketball that I didn't even bet this game, nor post it on the sites. Terrible by me. So yes, Magic last night. And as I watch the Magic cruise here with 2 minutes left up a dozen,  it just cements my thoughts. LeBron goes easy, the rest of the team follows suit. Huge coming home tomorrow in Miami. That is the game he wants to put on a show.. Then, on the Wednesday night- Hello Cleveland. 10* Money Bomb LA LAKERS 

Taking the SAINTS. We faded NO last week and it cost us. Otherwise, we have pegged these guys all season long. This line is moving. Not surprising really. Eagles O didn't look good vs Dallas. And Saints D is not as good as the Cowboys defense. But at home, Brees and the New Orleans will do damage. Golden Tate will probably score a TD this week. There is a nice prop bet if you can find it. But I don't think that Philly can slow down this machine right now. Rush, pass. Doesn't matter. NO finds ways to put points on the board. Take out a 34 game vs the Giants, and the Philly high water mark is 24 points. Not enough bullets for this battle. Scoring 22 a game and giving up 20 will get you exactly what the Eagles are. A 4-5 team. They got very hot and rode it all the way to a Super Bowl Championship. Well - things seem to lining up perfectly for a Saints run as they scored at least 40 in 5 of their nine games. A little luck doesn't hurt either. And they have been falling into their share of breaks along the way. Just 2 losses their last 11 home games. Tough stopping this group in the dome. 5* Best Bet NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 

Taking ARIZONA. Yeah. Tough taking a 2 win team to win by 6 points. But they are playing the Raiders. The Raiders who have score 6,3,3 in 3 of their last 4 games. 5 straight losses of 14 or more points. It really comes down to this for me - Oakland is clearly 'tanking'. They want the #1 Pick. They won't get that by beating a team h2h and tying them with 2 wins.  The trades of Mack and Cooper, waiving Irvin. Clear signs this team is done. I think everyone has checkout. For Arizona, a tough year sure. But they have their franchise QB. They also have a new OC who is looking to spice things up a bit. He has David Johnson who is still a stud RB. HOF Fitzgerald who should find some space vs this terrible Oakland secondary. Cards 5-1-1 ATS run shows no quit even with their poor record. *Sure Shot ARIZONA CARDINALS 

Taking the CHARGERS. Had these guys last week. And even sleepwalking they managed to cover double digits. This just seems like a different all around team. Still don't like their kicking game, but man oh man, what a year from Rivers. Let's not forget Gordon either. The RB is having a great year rushing, and catching the ball. First 'home' game for LAC in 6 weeks! Remember London. They are 7-1 here at Stub Hub. Neither of these coaches are at the top of any of my lists. Maybe worse NFL lists. Broncos in the midst of a terrible year. I think Vance Joseph is out the door in January. When I see Denver I see 2 pt loss vs Houston (home0, 7pt loss on road to KC, 3 point loss to Rams (home), 4 pt loss to KC (Home) -- Plus 1 pt win at home over Oakland, 3pt win at home over Seattle. Yes. They are 'in' games. And losing is a reflection on the coach. You think Case is happy about trading WR Thomas? How the heck is he matching big-plays from Rivers today? 34-16 loss at Jets. 27-14 loss at Ravens.. That is what we will be seeing from Denver this afternoon. 10* Money Bomb LA CHARGERS 

Taking SAN DIEGO STATE. The ole bubble burst fade. We had Fresno as they blew a 17-3 lead last week and hopes of a New Year's Day bowl get flushed down the blue turf toilet. Now they have to face SDST, who, is also off a disappointing loss. But I do like Rocky Long. And  nothing will get an upset loss out of their minds like taking care of Fresno. Aztecs 7-1 ATS last 8 as dogs with outright wins over Boise and Arizona State this year. San Diego State has played 8 straight games decided by one score. Fresno 18-4-2 ATS run, but that is why we are getting extra points with the dog tonight. 8* Sure Shot SAN DIEGO STATE 

Taking CENTRAL FLORIDA. Just think this is the old 'statement' game for UCF. Disrespected again the playoff poll. Only undefeated again. Last year they did everything asked of them including beating SEC Auburn. This is a game they will want to run it up as the powers that be say 'they don't pass the eye-test' or 'who do they play'. I see a 40-50 spot being dropped tonight. College Game Day in town. Huge home game of for the Knights. Cincy D gets a lot of press. But, 1 Top 30 offense faced all year. That was Ohio, who put up 30 points and over 400 yards. Reigning in the #3 offense is a bigger challenge. UCF should win this one by double digits. 10* Money Bomb CENTRAL FLORIDA 

Taking ST LOUIS. Like this bunch. A lot of good talent. If HC Ford can piece it together, this is an NCAA team. Transfers. Isabell from Drexel 21ppg 7boards  -- Wiley from Maryland 6ppg . That doesn't include returnees, Goodwin 11ppg 7boards , Bess 13/7, French 9/7, Forman 7ppg, Welmer 8/5.  These guys are deep. On the flip side - Seton Hall lost nearly 60% of it's scoring. STL is ready to take a big step. Nearly played them +210 on the ML here on the sites. Pirates with Powell scoring 27 and Nzei 12. After that, it is a loose ball crap shoot of where the points are coming from. Billikens get the call. 10* Money Bomb STL BILLIKENS 

Taking NOTRE DAME. So. It looks really nice getting a 'ranked' Syracuse team and double digits. I mean, - these guys almost beat Clemson this year and beat Clemson last year. And Clemson is good right!! Clemson lost their starting QB. They had a 3rd stringing in for the game this year. Who has Syracuse beaten? I see ratings where they are 30th or below. They trailed NC and needed OT to beat a 3 win team. They lost in OT to Pitt. Played LSU tough, Yes played Clemson tough on the road. And this is a tough spot for ND travel wise if you look at their schedule. But yet, 10 points. This line has ticked up. 5* Best Bet NOTRE DAME 

Taking IOWA. Although pegged for a middle tier Big 10 team, I like Iowa in this spot. Everyone real contributor back for them. They beat a pretty good Ducks team last night. Let-down. Nah. Then we would have to say let-down for UConn. Huskies ceiling was about basement level. But with a new HC, they took down old Big East rival Syracuse last night. Think size and experience wins out tonight. 5* Best Bet IOWA 

Taking OREGON. Both of these guys were probably thinking they were going to be playing in the 2K Classic Championship Game. Look. This is like a home game for 'Cuse. I think they are ok. I mean -middle of the road ACC team. Will be ranked, and go dancing. I have Ducks pegged for the top of the PAC 12. I like Dana Altman. I think this team is pretty good. And I will grab them this afternoon. 5* Best Bet OREGON DUCKS 

Taking the GIANTS. So. Going ugly here. What worries me is this line moving up a half point. I don't really like that too much. I know that SF looked good last Thursday vs the Raiders. But, it was the Raiders. New York in off their bye week. You have to think that they are going to get Barkley more touches. Kid is electric. And that will open things up for Eli to at least complete pass to another unworldly talent in ODB. And I say that as someone who can't stand the G-Men. But those 2 guys are great. I know the race is on for a top pick, but this team has too many veterans and attitudes to mail it in. I saw 2 spots with conflicting SF trends. 2-9-1 ATS last 12 as a fave and 1-12 ATS last 13 as fave. So maybe they used different closing numbers. In taking NYG, I am under the impression that their HC gets away from relying on Eli and moves more to the RB he took at the top of the draft. Rested dog gets the call in Prime Time. 5* Best Bet NY GIANTS 

Taking the PACKERS. Not a fan of laying double digits that's for sure. Especially with a coach I hate. And this guy ranks up there with his brothers from Dallas, Chargers and Denver. But this QB is a beast. He actually is getting some RB help. I like when A-Aron is angry. This Miami team is like a JV club coming to town after the Patriots and Rams. Miami does have a pretty schedule if you look at records and who they have to play. They are projected to be a AFC 6 seed. GB with Seattle and Minny on deck. They can't overlook an AFC team. They can't overlook anyone when you are 3-4. Dolphins needed a lot of extra help, as in 4 INTs to get a win over the Jets (Miami my Top 10 LW)- And I am grateful for the win. But that shouldn't inspire much confidence as they come to a cold city with Brock leading the troops. If Osweiler keeps Miami in striking distance I will really be shocked. 5* Best Bet GB PACKERS 

Taking the CHARGERS. Yes. Very tough laying this with the Chargers since I can't stand their HC and I don't think they know they need a placekicker to score points. But it is clear that the Raiders are checked out and looking forward to Vegas. Picking up draft picks and cutting vets. Rivers having a monster year. Gordon back. LAC can name their score. I'm thinking something like 27-6. 8* Sure Shot LA CHARGERS  (took me 3 times to write this as I keep putting SD instead of LA) 

Taking the BENGALS. Now. We are 6-1 when betting Saints game. Had TB in Game 1, lost our fade of them vs NYG. In this spot, I will again go against them. More a situational spot more than anything. NO comes in winners of 7 straight. A tough come from behind win over Baltimore on the road. And ugly win at Minny. Then, shooting out to a fast lead, only to the Rams tie it up at 35, before winning by 10. That is an emotional run the last couple weeks. And, Super Bowl Champion, Philadelphia Eagles on deck. Losing out of conference isn't a bad loss by any stretch. Maybe a slight look ahead. Cincy in off their bye week. Dome team outdoors. Bengals quietly the most efficient red-zone team in the league. Again. Ravens missed a PAT that would have forced OT. Vikes turned the ball over at the worse time. Rattling off 10 points after a Rams rally. You need some luck to go along with talent to win. But you can't get that every time you suit up. 10* Money Bomb CINCINNATI BENGALS 

Taking CINCY. Man. South Florida was undefeated 2 weeks ago. Then Houston beat them by 57-36. They followed that up as a 7pt home fave and losing to Tulane 41-15! USF 33-3 last year. We will see that flipped tonight. Cincy in off blanking Navy 42-0. They are licking their chops at a wounded Bulls team. USF 2-7 ATS. So even when they were winning, they were over-valued and under performing. Cincy 6-3 ATS on the year. Bulls defense in for a long night - last 3 road games, 57-24-42 points allowed. Bearcats last 3 at home 42-37-34. 8* Sure Shot CINCINNATI BEARCATS 

Taking NORTH CAROLINA. Yeah. A best bet on a 1 win team. NC fighting in every ACC game. This is a Tobacco Road game so I can't see them mailing it in on the season now. Duke not all that sharp on the season- and if they are to lay an egg, coming home off a big win over Miami laying double digits would be the spot to do it. Think this is a 1 score game. 5* Best Bet NORTH CAROLINA 

Taking TEXAS. I have these guys as a near Top 15 team. Arkansas - not so much. Further down the run in the 60s. Clear rebuild going on for the Razorbacks. Arkansas will be in store for a long year. Longhorns should really name their score tonight. 8* Sure Shot TEXAS LONGHORNS 

Taking NORTHEASTERN. Like this group. Just missed the NCAAs last year with a CAA Championship Game loss. This is a huge small/ mid-major battle as Harvard is right at the top of the Ivy League. Tough going against the 'smart' team. Remember. NE lost in OT in that Championship Game after being up by 17 in the second half. Hopefully those things aren't the norm and the players learned from that horrible experience. 4* Money Maker NORTHEASTERN 

Taking SYRACUSE. yes, a GOY. Like last weeks Big 10 GOY on Michigan, we expect another big blowout. Big revenge spot as Orange were blasted last year 56-10.  62-28 the year before.I can see the complete opposite of those scores tonight. 56 or more allowed by Louisville in 3 of the 4 games. Going on at limb and saying perhaps a new HC on the sideline next season for the Cards. 10* Money Bomb ACC GOY SYRACUSE 

Taking MEMPHIS. Normally I don't like coming out swinging dropping a huge 10* Money Bomb play on opening. This just feels like proverbial 'perfect storm.' Tenn Tech comes in as probably the worse team in the OVC. Have to replace all their top scorers. New HC Penny Hardaway takes over for Tubby Smith and the hype is off the charts. He has a few seniors that will be more than happy to whatever the NBA All-Star has to say. The kids on Tenn Tech will probably be star struck looking for autographs instead of playing their assignments. 10* Money Bomb MEMPHIS 

Going OVER the total. Kent is pretty bad. I think Buffalo can challenge this on their won if they play the entire 60 minutes. I know they are scoring in the mid 30s. Anything out of Kent early would be a bonus. I expect a garbage TD from them late. Doubt we even need it though. Final home game before hitting the road. Should be pumped up for the fans. Blowout in the making. 8* Sure Shot OVER 

Going OVER the total. Both teams off their bye weeks. Both pretty desperate to get their offenses going. Defenses are the strength of both squads. Something tells me though we see some new wrinkles. Dallas actually playing well this season at home. I won't be shocked if they get 30 themselves. This is the second lowest line this week. I have this at mid to high 40s. 5* Total Money OVER Titans/ Cowboys 

Taking the COWBOYS. I know a lot of people all over Titans. Right off the bat, gut tells me to go opposite of that thinking. I like Dallas. Am a fan. Hate their HC. Guy wasted Romo's career. Can't manage the clock, timeouts and plays to tie instead of winning. Even after that, I will lay the number tonight. Both teams off byes. A reason why I a like the over, which was 40.5 when I put it out, now 40, even a 39.5 creeping up. I think out of the bye we see some more wrinkles in the offenses. Points will be scored. The Cooper trade - people have opinions on. Getting out of Oakland will help. Dak can throw the ball. I think this is a good pickup. Won't be shocked when he scores a TD on MNF. Just him on the field will open things up for Zeke out of the backfield. I think Dallas gets over 30 tonight. At 6.5, I was leaning Titans early, now at 4. Last home game 40-7 over Jacksonville. Everyone moving on Tennessee now has me heading to cash my ticket in the opposite direction. 5* Best Bet DALLAS COWBOYS 

Taking the PATRIOTS. First to admit we scored a gift cover on Monday night with the New England. Sure did look NE was going through the motions against the Bills. Not doing anything fancy. FGs all over the place. Just enough to escape with the win. While last we saw GB fighting to the absolute bitter end vs the Rams. That kind of loss hurts. Hurts so much they cut people. Rodgers is one of the best. Brady arguably The Best. Cross Country back to back road games. Tough for sure as the Packers head to Gillette. Do you really feel comfortable backing McCarthy over The Hoodie? He'll do something stupid. Pats by 10. 8* Sure Shot NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 

Taking the SAINTS. Been on this New Orleans money train for a couple weeks now. Last week we get the cash and Brees basically takes the day off. Nice road wins in Minny and Baltimore for us. We crushed them over the Redskins. We have a pretty good feel of this club right now. Rams a good team. Probably the 2 best teams in the NFC battling it out today. But we have seen the Rams secondary get abused by A-Aron, Russell Wilson, Kirk Cousins and Phillip Rivers. Brees will put up points. This game is a PK. We just have to win. Not like we are laying 3-4-5 or more. 10* Money Bomb NEW ORLEANS SAINTS