I'm laying the points with the Packers on Sunday.  We know about Eli Manning's success in Green Bay and the fact the Giants' secondary has been the strength of the team.  But Aaron Rodgers is on fire, not simply because he's found another gear, but because it took until after the midway point of the season for Jordy Nelson to finally overcome last year's injury and the Pack found a running game, thanks mainly due to Ty Montgomery.  I do believe the Packer offense will end up being too much for the Giants to match.  This is also the Giants third straight road game and the offense has been held in-check virtually all season, but especially in their last five games.  I know about the Giants' playoff road success, but that's stuff that happened a few years ago.  Most recently, this team is 1-8-2 ATS in their last 11 road games against teams with a winning record.  The Pack is on a 4-0 wildcard spread run and they're on a 5-1 ATS run, overall. I'm laying the points with the Packers on Sunday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Duquesne, my A-10 DogPound Game of the Week.  The Dukes remain undervalued away from home in the matchup with La Salle.  Duquesne has won four of their last five, while covering four straight games.  Jim Ferry has plenty of depth with 10 players averaging over 9 minutes of playing time per game even with Josh Steel sidelined by suspension for all but two games this season.  La Salle can score points, no doubt about it, but they play very little defense.  Not only do they allow 79 ppg, but they rank 330th and 338th in FG percentage and 3-point percentage allowed, respectively.  The Explorers also struggle on the glass and we believe the line has been priced too high for a team that doesn't put a lot into the fundamentals.  Besides the 4-0 ATS run mentioned above, the Dukes are also on a 9-1 ATS run on the regular season road, going back to last season, while La Salle is just 5-12-2 ATS as chalk. I'm grabbing the points with Duquesne, my Atlantic-10 DogPound GOW.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night.  Nice win for the Knicks last night, outscoring Milwaukee 33-15 in the fourth quarter after trailing by 13 points through the first three. Carmelo Anthony, Courtney Lee, and Derrick Rose all saw a lot of minutes last night and will now have to lace them up against an improved Indiana team.  The Pacers have won and covered four straight and the offense has been clicking on all cylinders since tweaking the backcourt a bit. Indiana has averaged 117.5 ppg during the four game run.  Besides the 4-0 SU/ATS run, the Pacers have covered eight of their last nine home games against the Knicks.  I'm laying the points with the Pacers on Saturday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Houston on Saturday.  Connor Cook gets his first NFL start when the Oakland Raiders take the field on Saturday.  While we like Cook's upside, this is simply too tall a task in our opinion.  When Derek Carr was healthy, his leadership and ability, combined with Oakland's offensive weaponry was so strong, it masked all the issues on defense. The mask is off, however, and the Raider defensive woes have been revealed.  Houston's defense is a tough nut to crack, ranked 2nd in defending the pass and #1 in the NFL, holding opponents to 301 total yards per game.  And let's not fail to mention Houston is 7-1 SU at home this season.  Brock Osweiler has been a disappointment in Houston, but he and the offense get "just what the doctor ordered" when they face the permissive Raider defense.  The Texans are on a 14-5 ATS run when laying points under HC O'Brien.  Oakland won the meeting in November, 27-20.  But we believe the Texans will win the important meeting on Saturday.  I'm laying the points with the Texans, my Main Event.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Creighton, my Road Warrior.  The Blue Jays were quite impressive last time out, beating St. John's, 85-72 on the road and the game wasn't as close as that.  What made it so impressive is that the Jays were off their first loss of the season, falling late to top-ranked Villanova in their previous game.  But there was no hangover, no flat effort and the Jays rolled. We expect more today as they attempt to avenge a sweep by the Friars a season ago.  In fact, CU is in 5x revenge, for what it's worth. There's a difference this season though.  Greg McDermott has four returning starters and his best team he's had, even better than those led by his son Doug in my opinion.  Meanwhile, Ed Cooley lost three starters from last year's squad and while he has a good program, it is rebuilding and the Friars have been knocked around in step-up games this season. The Jays are a perfect 5-0 SU/ATS as a single digit favorite this season, while Providence is on a 1-4 ATS slide.  I'm laying the points with Creighton, my Road Warrior.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Florida State on Saturday, my ACC Daytime Dominator Game of the Month.  Virginia Tech got hammered last time out, losing 104-78 at NC State.  While the margin may have surprised, the loss itself did not.  Va Tech was fresh off an upset win over Duke, the final win in an 8-game winning streak.  But other than Duke, it wasn't as though the Hokies beat up on a slew of elite opponents.  They will face an elite opponent today.  The Hokies want to play uptempo, high scoring basketball, but they're running into a Seminoles' squad that ranks 19th in FG defense, holding this season's opponents to 38% shooting.  They're also great defending the trey, and allow just 68 ppg.  FSU nails over 50% of their FGA; owns a strong inside-outside game; and has seven players averaging between roughly 18 ppg & 7 ppg.  The 'Noles also have Jonathan Isaac, an absolute beast on the glass, while Xavier Rathan-Mayes is one of the best assist-men in the league.  FSU is on a 5-1 ATS ACC run and they're on a 6-2 ATS run at home against the Hokies. The 'Noles are also looking to avenge a sweep at the hands of Va Tech a season ago.  I'm laying the points with Florida State, my ACC Daytime Dominator GOM.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Michigan State, my Slam Dunk on Saturday when they hook-up with Penn State at the Palestra.  The Spartans are beginning to hit their stride, winning four straight, while covering all four.  They've been outstanding on the offensive end, averaging 19 assists and just 11 turnovers in their last three games, while out-rebounding three of their last four opponents. The Spartans have shot well all season, nailing 48% of their FGA, while also playing typical Izzo style defense, holding opponents to a 29th best 39% shooting.  This is bad news for a PSU squad that's made just 42% of their FGA this season.  The Nittany Lions also struggle in another strong MSU category, rebounding.  The Spartans' recent win over Minnesota at Williams Arena is looking more impressive, especially when you consider MSU was out-scored 31-10 at the FT line.  The Spartans head into this one on a 4-0 spread run.  They're 17-5 ATS in their last 22 Big-10 games, and they've covered four of the last five meetings with Penn State. I'm laying the points with Michigan State, my Slam Dunk.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Golden State, my Situational KO on Friday.  The last time these teams met, GSW couldn't hit the broadside of a barn and Memphis won 110-89 as a 13-point underdog. The Warriors have been money in this spot, currently on a 15-4 ATS run at home in revenge of a SU loss as a favorite.  GSW averaged 116 ppg in those 19 contests.  They're also a perfect 3-0 SU/ATS hosting Memphis since May, 2015, winning by an average score of 114-84!  After playing so poorly in the December 10 meeting, I expect the Warriors to have little trouble canning treys and that's an issue for the Grizzlies.  Memphis enters on a 3-13 ATS slide on the road against teams that make at least 36% of their 3-pointers.  The matchups and motivation are both in place for a wide margin win and cover.  I'm laying the points with the Warriors, my Situational Knockout on Friday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the Colorado Buffaloes, my Road Warrior on Thursday.  The Buffs are all about defense, while ASU seems allergic to defending.  Colorado enters allowing just 67.4 ppg on 39.3% shooting, including 30.3% from behind the arc.  Both of those shooting percentages are ranked in the top-40 in college baskets.  The Sun Devils are at the other end of the spectrum, allowing over 82 ppg on 47.1% shooting (314th). They don't defend the 3-point line and outside of Obinna Oleka, they don't rebound well at all.  In fact, they're pretty bad at it.  The thing is, Colorado has George King & Wesley Gordon to offset Oleka.  The two average a combined 15.2 rpg.  CU also has five players averaging between 15 ppg and 7 ppg, and Tad Boyle has a deep team with 10 players averaging in double digits in minutes played per contest.  Finally, while the Buffs are on a 5-1 ATS conference run, the Sun Devils are on a 2-6 ATS slide at home. I'm backing Colorado, my Road Warrior on Thursday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing Middle Tennessee State, my Thursday night Slam Dunk.  MTSU ran off eight straight wins before recently dropping two in a row.  But they bounced back in the win column last time out, defeating UAB, 60-49.  The Blue Raiders did it with defense, which is their calling card.  I expect that stingy defensive play to throw a wrench into a Rice squad that wants to run and run some more.  MTSU isn't void of talent on the offensive end with three players averaging more than 15 ppg. They also own three strong rebounders and a couple of decent dishers.  MTSU enters on a 7-1 ATS run and they've covered four straight on the road. Meanwhile, Rice is a bankroll burner at home, currently on a 1-7-1 ATS slide in front of the friendlies. I'm backing Middle Tennessee State, my Slam Dunk on Thursday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Boise State, my KO release.  UNLV is off a nice home win over Wyoming, but the Rebels were a 1-point favorite, so no one was too shocked.  The team is short on depth, missing a key player, and short on talent.  I'm not ready to jump on board off the win.  I am ready to go against them and back Boise State, who should have little trouble controlling this game on the defensive end.  They're outstanding defending the perimeter and allow just 66.7 ppg.  The Broncos also own a big matchup advantage in the backcourt with 6'7 guard Chandler Hutchison capable of driving his defender inside, or shooting mid-range jumpers.  Hutchison, averaging 18 ppg and pulling down 8.5 rpg will also make his matchup work under the glass.  I also don't like the fact UNLV doesn't have a strong disher, with Jovan Mooring the best on the team with a mediocre 50/33 assist/turnover mark. Boise enters on a 5-1-1 ATS run as road chalk of less than seven points, while UNLV is 2-9 ATS in their last 11 as a dog and on a 1-6 ATS slide in conference play.  I'm laying the points with Boise State, my KO release. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.  

I'm laying the points with UC-Davis on Wednesday.  This is HC Jim Les' 6th team at Davis and likely his second best squad, trailing only the 2014-15 team that fininshed 25-7.  The Aggies are 18-11 in their last 29 games and will look to exact revenge for an ugly blowout loss to UCSB in the conf tourney that ended their season last March.  But this season, UC-Davis is the deeper, much healthier, and better team.  They put nine players in double digits in minutes played per game. UCSB is a mess right now.  Eligibility issues have popped up effecting three players, including their leading rebounder, Jalen Canty, who's the second best player on the team.  UCSB is expected to be without his 26 minutes, 10.2 ppg, & 7 rpg tonight and will also be missing Ami Lakoju and his 16 minutes per night.  They were absent the other night when the Gauchos lost a home game to Seattle.  UCSB is just 2-10 SU this season with their two wins coming in OT over Cal-State Bakersfield and against Sonoma State.  UCSB is on a 1-8 ATS slide, while the Aggies are on a 12-5 ATS run as a home favorite of less than seven points.  We'll back UC-Davis, our Big West Mismatch GOM.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.  

I'm taking the points with Ole Miss, my DogPound Crusher on Tuesday.  This will mark Florida's second home game of the season and while they will be jazzed to play in front of the home folks, we believe they're laying too many points. Ole Miss represented themselves well on the road, taking Va Tech to the wire already this season.  The Rebels had a horrible first half against Kentucky last time out, but caught the Wildcats in an angry mood off a loss to in-state rival Louisville.  Andy Kennedy has been able to refocus his squad off bad losses, currently on an 8-1 ATS run off a loss by more than 20 points.  Ole Miss owns strong backcourt play on the offensive end, led by Deandre Burnett and should give the Gators a game.  The Rebels are on a 15-5-1 ATS run off a double-digit home loss and they're on a 6-0 spread run at Florida.  I'm grabbing the points with Ole Miss, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the short points with Tennessee, my Revenge Wipeout.  Nice spot for the Vols to avenge last year's sweep at the hands of the Razorbacks. Rick Barnes had some newcomers on the roster to start this season, but he does believe he has a deeper and more talented team than he coached last season.  So far, we agree.  The Vols took Oregon to the brink before losing by four, came withing two points of knocking off North Carolina in Chapel Hill, battled Gonzaga, and just won on the road in a hostile environment, beating Texas A&M 73-63 as a 9 1/2 point dog.  Mike Anderson's squad has played a less difficult schedule losing their only two real step-up games by 14 to Minnesota and by nine to Florida. Anderson has underwhelmed at Arkansas and his Hogs are 3-12 ATS on the road after playing a game as a dog. Meanwhile, the Vols are on a 6-1 ATS run against teams playing better than   basketball.  This is a spot where the tough early season schedule benefits Tennessee.  We'll back them tonight, laying the points with the Volunteers, our Revenge Wipeout.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Auburn, my Bowl Smash on Monday.  The Sooners closed with a blowout win over Oklahoma State, however, Stoops' troops fell short of where they'd hoped to be thanks to ugly losses to Houston & Ohio State.  OU enters on a nine-game winning streak, covering the final three.  Auburn finished 12 points from a 10-2 season and own the play in the trenches that gives the Sooners' defense fits.  Auburn has been a solid bowl entry under Malzahn, losing to Florida State & Wisconsin by identical 34-31 scores, while beating Memphis 31-10 as a 3-point fave last season.  Stoops' Sooners have won just five of their last 13 bowls, (4-9 ATS), including 3-5 SU / 2-6 ATS when favored.  We'll grab the points with Auburn, our Monday Bowl Smash.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with William & Mary, my Daytime Dominator on Monday. The Tribe open the new year with a chance to shock the Pride and we believe they will.  Hofstra is not a good defensive team, ranked in the 200's in both FG percentage and 3-point percentage allowed, yet they'll play at William & Mary's desired pace.  The visitors are a much better team on the defensive end, holding opponents to 42% shooting, including 31% from behind the arc.  They're also fairly deep with nine players averaging more than 10 minutes played per game.  Daniel Dixon leads the way in scoring, while the team's best all-around player, Omar Prewitt has talked about having this meeting marked on the calendar since Hofstra knocked the Tribe out of the CAA semifinals last March.  Prewitt had his worst game of the season, making just 1-of-12 shots with just one rebound, while being whistled for four personal fouls.  As bad of a night as Prewitt had, the game was still tied with less than 20-seconds to go before Hofstra won 70-67.  Bill & Mary lost to Northeastern last time out, but they're on a 22-4-1 ATS run off a SU loss. Meanwhile, the Pride have covered just 9 of their last 30 home games.  I'm grabbing the points with William & Mary, my Daytime Dominator on Monday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. No Derek Carr for the Raiders, so Matt McGloin will line-up behind center. The good news for the Raiders is that McGloin will still have the terrific offensive line, strong RBs, and outstanding WR corps to work with, that doesn't change a bit.  I do believe the troops will rally and pick up the slack for their injured signal caller.  The Raiders ran all over the Broncos in their 30-20 win in early November and this Bronco defense is suffering from numerous bumps & bruises.  Oakland still has a lot to play for with the AFC West title on the line and we feel they'll come away with the division crown in-hand.  Oakland enters on a 9-1 ATS road run, while Denver is on a 1-6 ATS slide within the division.  Finally, the Raiders are on a 7-2-1 ATS run in Denver.  I'm backing the Oakland Raiders, my KO on Sunday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Clemson on Saturday.  Ohio State struggled up front on offense against the better defenses on their schedule.  At times, J.T. Barrett was unfairly criticized when you consider he was under pressure.  Clemson has been outstanding at getting to the QB, posting a sack net of more than +20 on the season.  I do expect the battle in the trenches to be won by Clemson and prove to be the difference in the outcome.  We note the Tigers are 8-0 ATS away from home against teams that outscore the opposition by at least 17 ppg.  While this isn't a true road game, we get the picture.  Swiney's Tigers outscored the eight opponents by an average of 38-29. They're also 9-2 ATS against pass defenses that hold the opposition to no more than 5.75 yards per attempt, able to dissect and solve solid pass defenses.  And finally, they know how to prep for bowl action, on a 5-0 ATS bowl run.  I'm grabbing the points with Clemson, my Playoff Knockout.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Florida State on Saturday afternoon, my Shocker. The Cavaliers are off a big road win over Louisville last time out and HC Tony Bennett is working his magic again.  But the Cavs are beatable at home.  They lost by nine at home to West Virginia, and barely held on for a 2-point win over Ohio State.  Both teams slammed the door on Virginia on the offensive end, something we believe Florida State will do, also.  The Seminoles rank 23rd in the nation, allowing opponents to make just 38.1% of their FGA, including just 30% of their 3-pointers.  At the same time, they nail over 51% of their own FGA.  FSU owns a strong inside-outside game with seven players averaging between 17.4 ppg & 7.2 ppg.  Jonathan Isaac is a beast on the glass and Xavier Rathan-Mayes is one of the better dishers in the league.  I do believe FSU will be too strong for Virginia to cover the big spread.  I'm grabbing the points with Florida State, my Top Shocker on Saturday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the Pitt Panthers, my Afternoon Annihilator on Saturday. Things didn't start out too well for Pitt and we won going against them twice on these pages, cashing with Eastern Michigan & SMU.  But the new coaching staff led by Kevin Stallings and the players are now on the same page and the Panthers roll into this one with an 11-2 SU mark. They also own the exact type of play on the defensive end, the schemes they run, to slow down Notre Dame.  The Irish want to bomb away from the deep perimeter, but Pitt allows the opposition to make just 30.2% of their 3-pointers.  Meanwhile, I expect Pitt to damage Notre Dame inside the arc at the other end, where they make over 48% of their shots.  14 games into the season and this marks Notre Dame's first true road test.  I'm betting they don't pass.  The Irish enter on a 2-9 ATS slide on the road after winning at least two straight games, while the Panthers enter on an 8-1 ATS run at home if they're off a SU, but non-covering home win.  I'm backing the Pitt Panthers, my Afternoon Annihilator. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Florida State, my Bowl Smash.  The Seminoles had bigger hopes before the season began as did Michigan.  But Jimbo Fisher's squad knew they were out of the mix long before the Wolverines had their hopes dashed.  Florida State was a very young football team when the season began, but are now a seasoned crew.  We do believe the ultra-quick FSU defense will be tough on the Michigan offense.  It's extremely tough to run on the Seminoles and the Michigan pass offense is on the wrong side of mediocre.  The Wolverines did not finish well on offense, gaining just 201, 284, and 310 yards in their final three games of the season, averaging just 3.86 yards per play.  I do believe the FSU defense will prove to be the difference in the game, at least hanging the number.  Florida State enters on an 8-2-1 ATS bowl run and they're on a 5-1 ATS run outside of conference play.  I'm grabbing the points with Florida State on Friday night.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Duquesne on Friday, my CBB Shocker.  Neither team is outstanding on the offensive end, but there's a big difference on the defensive end where the Dukes have played a decent brand of basketball and Fordham has struggled.  The Rams are allowing teams to make over 48% of their FGA, ranked 331st in the nation. I also don't like the fact that two of Fordham's key backcourt players, JaVontae Hawkins and Will Tavares, have combined for just 19 assists, while committing 48 turnovers on the season. Duquesne, meanwhile, will make them work on the defensive end and while the Dukes don't have a superstar on the offensive end, they do have five players averaging in double figures in scoring.  Duquesne enters on a 10-2 ATS road run, while the Rams have dropped five straight lined games.  We also note the road team in this series is on a 6-1-1 ATS run.  I'm grabbing the points with Duquesne, my Friday Shocker. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with South Alabama, my Bowl GOY.  The young Jaguar program is pumped to be here, obviously, and no one expected this year's Jags to go bowling before the season began.  In fact, South Alabama won six games, which doubled their preseason projected win total. But they've dropped five straight games ATS and covered just three of 12 games this season. Thanks to perception and typical public betting in games that involve a team like South Alabama, we tend to get value on that team.  We believe this is one of those cases. Let's also not forget the Jaguars beat Mississippi State outright to start the season and four of their losses came by one score.  South Alabama came pretty close to a nine win season.  The Jaguar coaching staff has had a month to prep for the Air Force option offense, a definite advantage.  Air Force heads into this one on a 0-5 ATS slide when laying double digits.  We saw South Alabama take out another Mountain West entry, beating San Diego State 42-24 as an 18 1/2 point underdog.  The Jags scored the game's final 21 points.  I expect another strong performance in this one.  I'm grabbing the points with South Alabama, my Bowl GOY.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with San Diego, my DogPound Crusher.  We played the Toreros and won on these pages on December 22.  San Diego enjoys an uptempo game and will take advantage of San Francisco's mutually desired quick pace. The Toreros are decent from behind the arc and make about 75% of their FTA, something we like when we're grabbing points (SFO is making just 64% of their FTA).  San Diego also has five players averaging between 18.6 ppg & 7.6 ppg.  In fact, Brett Bailey & Olin Carter-III combine for more than 36 ppg.  San Francisco has a few scoring options, but I don't like the way they handle the basketball.  Their guards all have mediocre at-best assist-turnover ratios, and the guard who handles it the most, Ronnie Boyce-III, has more turnovers than assists on the season.  San Diego enters on a 4-0-1 ATS run as road dogs, while the Dons have covered just 4 of their last 14 as chalk.  I'm grabbing the points with San Diego, my DogPound Crusher.

I'm grabbing the short points with Portland on Thursday night, my Shocker GOW.  If you've followed me this season, you know we have been involved more than once with the Pilots, cashing with opponents Portland State and CS-Fullerton.  We noted Portland's short bench and the fact they were playing a lot of games in a short period of time. Well, Portland has finally had a few days off and while the bench is short, it is extremely talented, especially Alec Wintering, Jazz Johnson, & Gabe Taylor.  The three average a combined 53.6 ppg.  Pacific also operates with a short bench, but the roster isn't nearly as talented at the top as Portland's.  And with a few days of rest, we'll back the Pilots in this one.  We note that Pacific is on a 0-6 ATS slide off a SU win.  I'm taking the points with Portland, my Shocker of the Week.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Evansville, my Road Warrior on Thursday.  The Purple Aces roll into town riding a 6-game winning streak, playing a strong brand of defensive basketball.  Evansville ranks in the top-50 in the nation holding the opposition to 62.7 ppg on 39.3% shooting.  They're also excellent defending the deep perimeter. Illinois State also plays at a slower paced tempo, doing their best work on the defensive end.  This one could very well end up being a case of the first team to 65 wins.  And we don't mind grabbing more than 4 buckets in a game like that.  We also note that the chalk in this game is poor at the charity stripe.  Evansville enters on an 18-5 ATS run as a dog of 7 to 12.5 points. They're on a 7-1 ATS run in Normal, Illinois.  And they're catching the Redbirds fresh off a tourney in Hawaii. We'll grab the points with Evansville, our TKO.

I'm taking the points with Kansas State on Wednesday, my Bowl Smash.  After a 6-0 start and dreams of a CFB playoff appearance, Texas A&M HC Kevin Sumlin, is back on the proverbial hot-seat. After a loss to Alabama, A&M dropped three of their last five games with the only two wins coming against NMSU & UTSA.  That's been modus operandi under Sumlin.  The Aggies are 8-11 SU & 3-16 ATS, following their first loss of the season over the last three years combined, including a 27-21 SU/ATS loss to Louisville in last year's Music City Bowl.  The Aggie defense has allowed 37 ppg, 556 yards per game, and 7.22 yards per play in their last three bowl games, combined.  Bill Snyder's 'Cats run and stop the run!  Meanwhile, A&M enters on a 0-8 ATS slide.  I'm grabbing the points with Kansas State, my Bowl Smash on Wednesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the short points with UCLA, my Wednesday Slam Dunk.  The Bruins head into Eugene with a 13-0 record and double-revenge on their mind.  They catch an Oregon team that will play to UCLA's desired pace and obviously, that's a huge deal considering the Bruins average 95.8 ppg on a nation's best 55% shooting (42.8% 3-point shooting).  They also hit the glass well and we believe even if Ducks' forward Chris Boucher returns tonight, he won't slow down the Bruin attack on either end.  And virtually everyone who matters on this team shares the rock. UCLA averages nearly two-dozen assists per game.  Steve Alford's troops head into this one on a 6-0 ATS run against teams that hold their opponents to 39% or less shooting.  They're 6-0 ATS against teams that outscore their opponents by at least 8 ppg.  And while the Ducks are 0-4 ATS at home against teams playing better than .600 road basketball, the favorite in this series is on a 5-0 ATS run. UCLA had no issues with a big game in Lexington, beating Kentucky earlier this season and I don't believe they'll have any issues in this road game.  I'm laying the points with UCLA, my Slam Dunk on Wednesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Utah Jazz, my KO release on Tuesday.  The Jazz are getting a little healthier in the backcourt with Rodney Hood expected back after suffering from an illness. It's not a case of all hands on deck yet, but I do believe we'll get a squad ready to land back in the win column after blowing a couple of leads of late.  Utah gets "just what the doctor ordered," facing a Laker team that's off a big win over the Clippers, but playing inconsistent basketball.  We not that NBA home teams off a SU home win as an underdog are just 12-35 ATS against teams off a home loss.  We also have a Utah squad that's on a 7-0 ATS run as a road favorite, outscoring those opponents by an average of 11 ppg.  And finally, Utah has covered four of the last five at Staples. I'm laying the points with the Utah Jazz, my KO release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Wake Forest, my Shocker GOM on Tuesday.  The Temple Owls were “money” this season AND ARE on a 12-0 ATS run.  They won their final seven games of the season SU, including a 34-10 blowout win over favored Navy.  But thanks to all the impressive wins and covers, the Owls are now an overvalued bowl team in my opinion and their HC is taking his expertise to Baylor.  Wake Forest, meanwhile, sails under the radar here, losing their final three games, while finishing with just six wins all season.  And when you consider the schedules, Wake's defensive numbers are nearly as strong as Temple's.  I'm taking the points with Wake Forest, my Top Shocker Game of the Month.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Miami-Ohio. This one has much to do with motivation and the RedHawks are pumped to be in this game with a chance to take on an SEC school. Mississippi State has fallen short of expectations and can thank their lack of a passing game and their 121st ranked pass defense.  The strength of the Miami offense is the aerial game, while the defense ranks in the top-30 in total yards allowed per game.  We have seen the Bulldogs struggle against less talented opposition this season and we believe this one will stay within the number. Miami enters on an 8-2 ATS run off a spread loss, while the Bulldogs are on a 1-5 ATS slide off a cover.  I'm grabbing the points with Miami-Ohio, my Hammer on Monday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the 49ers on Saturday, my Top Dog Shocker!  It's been a while since SFO won a football game...week-1 to be exact and the opponent was the L.A. Rams.  The Niners won 28-0.  There have been a lot of changes on both sidelines since that September contest.  One of the changes came at QB, where Jared Goff continues to learn the difference between the speed of the NFL and what he saw in college.  Goff is a little banged-up (concussion), but he is expected to start for the Rams on Saturday.  While both teams have struggled at least SFO can count on a top-notch running game.  In fact, Carlos Hyde is just 50 yards from reaching 1,000 yards rushing on the season.  We also note that SFO QBs have thrown just one interception in their last six games, so they're not likely to give the Rams any "freebies" in this one.  The Rams have dropped five in a row ATS and we note NFL road non-favorites are on a 52-23 ATS run in the second half of the season, provided they've lost at least seven straight games.  I'm grabbing the points with the 49ers, my Top Dog Shocker on Saturday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Jaguars, my Hammer release.  We cashed with the Titans as our NFL Dog of the Month last weekend.  Tennessee came through after falling behind early to KC, but this isn't an easy spot for the Titans. Not only are they off the come from behind win against the Chiefs, but they now have the added pressure of knowing they can win their division if they win out. The Titans are also not used to laying this many points.  In fact, they're on a 0-6-1 ATS multi-season slide when laying more than 3 points, including 0-3 ATS in this situation this season.  The Jaguars may be losing games, but they're still playing hard.  Five of their last seven games have been decided by one score. They'll also come in with a clean slate after the firing of HC Gus Bradley. Look for the Jags to respond under interim-HC Doug Marrone and at the very least, hang this number.  I'm grabbing the points with Jacksonville, my Hammer release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Chicago Bears on Sunday, my DogPound Crusher. No one has quit in the Bears' locker room and that includes QB Matt Barkley and RB Jordan Howard.  We expect both to have a big game against a Redskins' defense ranked in the bottom-third in most important categories.  Chicago's defense is playing the better brand of football, overall, and the Bears have covered five straight.  Washington has failed to cover any of their last four off a double-digit home loss and we feel the loss last week was a back-breaker.  Finally, under HC John Fox, the Bears are on an 8-0 ATS run against offenses that average at least 5.65 yards per play. Fox and company have done a great job at preparing their defense for offensive attacks like the one Washington will present.  I'm grabbing the points with the Bears, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm grabbing the points with Ohio on Friday.  We like the dynamic QB Greg Windham brings to the Bobcats and the senior signal caller is expected to start on Friday.  Windham's energy leads the Bobcat offense and he enters with a 12-4, TD-INT mark, while also capable of pulling the ball down and beating Troy with his legs when needed. Defensively, the Bobcats are outstanding against the run and we expect Troy's balance to be tested in this one.  Bottom line:  The number is too high in our opinion, giving us value on the dog.  Ohio enters on a 9-2 ATS run in non-conference action and they're on a 6-1 ATS run against teams with a winning record.  I'm taking the points with Ohio, my Bowl Beatdown. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with USC, my Mismatch on Thursday night.  Both teams like to hit the 80 point mark and both teams also play defense.  But this is a step-up game for the Bears and I don't believe they're up to the task of keeping it inside the number.  Despite playing a relatively easy slate, the Bears have dropped five in a row ATS and once again they're a tad overvalued.  USC is a perfect 11-0 SU this season and while Andy Enfield's team is scoring 82 ppg, it's the Trojans' defensive play that should separate these two tonight. USC still doesn't have Bennie Boatwright on the floor, but he's missed a half-dozen games already, so the rest of the team knows all about picking up the slack. Even with Boatwright sidelined, USC still has five players averaging between 15.5 ppg & 9 ppg.  Jordan McLaughlin and De'Anthony Melton are excellent at finding open shooters on the offensive end and the Trojans are +8 rpg on the season.  As mentioned, Missouri State is on a 0-5 ATS slide. Meanwhile, the Trojans are on a 19-6-1 ATS non-conference run.  I expect more of the same tonight in this neutral court affair in Las Vegas.  I'm laying the points with Southern California, my Mismatch.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with San Diego, my DogPound Crusher on Thursday night.  In order to cover point-spreads of 3 buckets or more, you need to be able to score a few points.  North Texas may be 6-5 SU, but they are a horrible shooting team and don't put a lot of points on the scoreboard. The Eagles' roster is getting deeper, but they rank 296th in the nation, making less than 42% of their FGA and rank 319th in 3-point accuracy, making just 30.6% of their treys.  San Diego will force a quicker tempo.  They're solid from behind the arc and make about 75% of their FTA, something we like when we're grabbing points.  The Toreros also have five players averaging between 18.5 ppg & 7.5 ppg.  In fact, Brett Bailey & Olin Carter-III combine for 36 ppg.  I also don't like the way North Texas takes care of the basketball, or doesn't take care of it for that matter.  Outside of J-Mychal Reese, the Eagles are a little shaky in the assist-turnover category. And we should note even Reese has a less than 2:1 ratio.  San Diego enters on an 8-2-1 ATS run as a dog of less than 7 points, while North Texas is 4-17 ATS against teams with a winning record and they've dropped four straight ATS off a SU win.  I'm grabbing the points with San Diego, my DogPound Crusher. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Idaho on Thursday, my Hammer release. This may turn out to be Idaho's final bowl game. The program has one more season at the FBS level before returning to their roots, the FCS and the Big Sky Conference.  Coaches, players, and fans alike, are not happy with the decision to step "down" a level and the team is reportedly fired-up to show the administration it made a mistake.  As far as the matchups, Idaho's defensive line is bigger than CSU's offensive line.  I'm not the first to point that out and not the first to believe Idaho will cause the Rams' problems up front.  The Vandals' defense held three of their last four opponents to 14 points or fewer.  Idaho won six of their last seven games and finished 8-4 SU with all four losses coming against teams that have made it to the postseason.  Idaho enters on a 7-0 ATS run and they're on a 9-1 ATS run the last two seasons against teams that allow at least 200 yards rushing per game.  The Rams allow 213 yards rushing per contest.  I'm grabbing the points with Idaho, my CFB Hammer on Thursday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Chicago Bulls, my NBA Wipeout.  We backed the Bulls two nights ago and cashed when they crushed Detroit by 31 points. The Bulls were fired-up after playing some sluggish and mistake-filled basketball prior to Monday.  Now that they have bounced back and gained that turn-around win, we expect more of the same for at least one more game...tonight's contest with Washington.  The Wizards have covered four straight, but I don't like their play on the defensive end and I believe it'll be a difference maker tonight.  I'm laying the points with the Bulls, my Wednesday Wipeout. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm grabbing the points with Portland State on Tuesday, my Slam Dunk.  These teams played right to the wire last season before Portland won 78-72.  PSU actually led by a point with about five minutes to go, and trailed by just a trey with less than a minute left in the game.  Portland State may or may not have the services of Braxton Tucker, but he's missed four of nine games this season and they're used to picking up the slack.  The Vikings are also the deeper team with five other players averaging in double digits in scoring and a sixth player averaging 9 ppg.  Depth is not something Portland owns.  Gabe Taylor and Alec Wintering continue to get worked hard.  The Pilots are basically a 7-man team and Taylor & Wintering were forced to play all 40 minutes in Sunday's win over Oregon State.  It marked the second straight game that Wintering played the full 40, while Taylor played 37 minutes in the previous game.  Tonight's contest will be Portland's third in five nights.  They have just two players with more than six assists on the season and their leading assist man, Wintering has 52 turnovers to go with his 62 assists.  The Pilots enter on a 5-13-1 ATS slide off a SU win, while PSU is on a 5-1 ATS run on the road against teams with a winning home record.  I'm grabbing the points with Portland State, my Slam Dunk release on Tuesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Knicks on Tuesday, my Mismatch release.  Tough spot for the Pacers. Not only did they play last night, a game that went to the final buzzer, but this marks their 5th game in 7 nights.  The Pacers have covered just 8 of their last 28 when playing without rest and they're on a 4-10 ATS slide on the road.  New York is a legit playoff contender this season and are home with two nights off since their recent road trip ended on a 3-game losing streak.  They'll also look to atone for their most recent home performance, an ugly loss to the Cavaliers.  The Knicks are on an 8-2 SU/ATS run at MSG, overall, and they're on a 5-0 SU/ATS run as home chalk. We'll back New York to bounce back tonight.  I'm laying the points with the Knicks, my Mismatch release. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Western Kentucky, my Tuesday Bowl Knockout.  The Hilltoppers are well known for putting up big bowl numbers after scoring 94 points in their last two postseason appearances.  The passing game has flourished the last two years in bowl action and we expect more of the same.  WKU scored 44 or more points in each of their final nine games this season, averaging 52.1 ppg along the way.  They have passed for 947 yards on 10.9 yards per pass with 8 TDs and just 2 INTs in the last two bowl games, completing 72% of their attempts.  The offense ranks 5th in yards passing per game this season and 2nd in ppg, averaging 45.1.  I expect another big performance against a Memphis defense that's bad against both the pass and run.  The Tigers allowed 42 or more points in four of their last six games. Memphis is on a 1-6 ATS slide against teams with a winning record.  Meanwhile, the Hilltoppers are 15-6 ATS the last 21 times when a total of 63 or higher has been posted. They thrive in an expected shootout, out-scoring the 21 opponents by an average of 49-25.  I'm laying the points with Western Kentucky, my Bowl KO on Tuesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Redskins on Monday, my KO release.  The Skins are in the playoff hunt and come home following a 27-22 win over the Eagles, snapping a 2-game losing streak. While they run the football pretty well (13th in the NFL) they love to put their trust in QB Kirk Cousins and the passing game.  The Skins average over 300 yards passing per game, which is 2nd best in the league.  Tonight, Washington gets the porous Carolina pass defense that allows a league-worst 272.4 yards passing per contest.  Panther LB Luke Kuechly is listed as questionable tonight, but we don't mind if he plays.  We note that the Skins are 7-0 ATS in the second half of this season and last when facing a defense that allows at least 235 yards passing per game. Washington outscored those seven teams by an average of 34-22.  I believe Carolina is going to have to play "keep-up" in this one, and with Cam Newton banged-up and the struggles of this team in general, I'm betting they won't be able to hang around.  The Panthers are 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 road games, while the Skins are on an 8-2 ATS run against teams with a losing record.  We'll lay it with the Redskins, our Monday KO.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Bulls on Monday night.  Both teams could use a win tonight, but I expect a big effort from Chicago after losing three straight and six of their last eight. The Bulls are still averaging over 101 ppg, despite scoring just 69, 97, and 94 points in their last three.  The 26-point home loss to Milwaukee has the team pretty fired-up to get back on track and back in the win column.  Jimmy Butler was not a happy dude following the 95-69 loss to the Bucks and expressed his displeasure after the game.  Chicago hasn't lost three in row at home this season and we don't believe they'll start something new tonight.  They're 7-3 ATS off a double digit home loss.  And NBA home teams playing with revenge for a double digit road loss are 74-36 ATS against teams off a loss of 15 or more as a favorite.  I'm laying the points with the Bulls, my Monday Mismatch. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Raiders on Sunday, my KO release.  Analytics guys have not been too crazy about Oakland this season.  I get it.  Their defensive numbers don't always look too hot. But the offense has been tremendous most weeks and I expect Derek Carr and company to bounce back from last week's loss in KC with a big game in SDG.  They'll face a Chargers' defense that allows nearly 27 ppg and ranks 25th against the pass.  And SDG is too one-dimensional on offense to take advantage of Oakland...losing Melvin Gordon certainly doesn't help. Meanwhile, Philip Rivers has been struggling, throwing as many INTs (10) as TD passes over the last four games. Oakland enters on an 8-1 ATS run on the road, while the Chargers have covered just 3 of their last 13 at home against teams with a winning road record.  I'm laying the points with the Raiders, my Knockout GOW.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Broncos on Sunday afternoon.  Obviously, this is a bigger game for Denver than New England, even with the Patriots looking to avenge last year's sweep and hoping to claim top-spot in the AFC.  Denver has a few bumps & bruises to the LB corps, but owns the schemes in pass defense to keep Tom Brady in-check. Denver is 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine home games.  They're 3-0 SU/ATS at home against the Pats since January 2014, holding the Patriots to an average of 19 ppg.  And while New England has been a road warrior, the Broncos continue to play well this time of year, entering on a 13-6 ATS December run.  I'm grabbing the points with the Broncos, my DogPound on Sunday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Tennessee Titans, my NFL Dog of the Month. Kansas City found a way to win again last week. But the Chiefs' defense is 27th against the run and 27th in total yards allowed per game.  Their games almost always are decided late and in fact, their last six games have been decided by a grand total of 22 points. Tennessee has turned things around under HC Mike Mularkey and they're the playoff hunt thanks to a 6-3 SU run.  The Titans's strength plays right into KC's weakness in this one. Tennessee knows how to run the football effectively, ranked 3rd in the NFL in yards rushing per game.  And last but not least, the Chiefs are in a tough spot...a "sandwhich spot," as we call them.  KC is off the win over Oakland and they have another divisional foe, Denver up next.  KC has covered just 2 of their last 9 home games.  I'm grabbing the points with the Titans, my Underdog Game of the Month.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the short points with Fresno State, my Mismatch on Saturday night. Pacific is an absolute mess on the offensive end, soon to be known as the gang that couldn't shoot straight. The Tigers are making just 37.3% of their FGA, which ranks 341st in CBB and none of their top four scorers are making better than 39% of their shots. Pacific isn't a lot better on the defensive end where they rank #211 in FG percentage allowed.  Bad news facing a surging and undervalued Fresno State squad.  The Bulldogs rank 16th in the nation making 50% of their FGA, while holding the opposition under 40% shooting on the season.  FSU enters on a 5-1 run with the lone loss coming by just 3 points to Marquette in Milwaukee.  Five Bulldogs average between 13.5 ppg and 9 ppg.  Fresno's key players Jahmel Taylor and Jaron Hopkins are transfers from Washington & Colorado, respectively, and both are having big seasons.  FSU whipped Pacific 71-52 as a 10-point home favorite last season and we believe the adjustment for venue has been overvalued.  The Bulldogs enter on a 7-1 ATS run on the road, while UOP is on a 1-6 ATS underdog slide.  I'm laying the number with Fresno State, my Mismatch on Saturday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Southern Miss, my first Smackdown of the bowl season.  Bowl favorites who have not had much point-spread success during the course of the regular season (33% ATS or worse) tend to be undervalued and we believe that's the case with Southern Miss (3-8-1 ATS). These teams are on a 21-6 SU & 20-7 ATS run.  We don't base plays solely on situations, but in this type of spot we feel the better team, the fave, is undervalued due in part to perception.  We also have a Golden Eagles' team that out-gained 11 of this year's 12 opponents.  They own the much better offense in this matchup.  Both teams average about 180 yards rushing per game, but UL-L's passing game is non-existent, dragging down their total yards gained per game to 365.9, or 104th in the nation.  Southern Miss ranks 23rd through the air, while pass defense is the weakness of the UL-L defense.  Another key bowl tool is motivation and in this case it's even.  Look for a spread-covering win for the New Orleans Bowl chalk.  I'm laying the points with Southern Miss, my Smackdown release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Indiana State, my Top Shocker release.  This is the fourth time we have taken points with the Sycamores and we cashed the first three, including covers over Utah State, Iowa State, and Butler.  ISU has been "money" outside of Mo-Valley action, currently on a 14-4-1 ATS run, and they're a perfect 6-0, 100% as an underdog this season.  ISU plays outstanding defense and the Sycamores also have a fantastic backcourt tandem of Brenton Scott and Everett Clemons. Scott is averaging 19.5 ppg and 5.5 rpg, while Clemons has dished out 53 assists with just 16 turnovers on the season.  They also have quality depth with 10 players averaging more than 9 minutes played per game.  ISU apparently read the press clippings after their upset win over Butler and proceeded to lose outright to Western Kentucky as a 9-point favorite last time out.  But they're back to getting a lot of points and should be refocused off the loss.  Valpo is off to a strong start and we cashed with them last time out.  But the Crusaders don't shoot well, ranked 276th in FG percentage and 346th from behind the arc, making just 27% of their 3-pointers.  Alec Peters is the key cog, but ISU owns the players capable of frustrating the 6'8 forward on the offensive end.  The Crusaders are on a 0-4 ATS slide at home and I'm going against them here. I'm taking the points with Indiana State, my Top Shocker.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Davidson, my DogPound Crusher.  It's a pseudo home game for the Kansas Jayhawks tonight, and while they'll have a ton of support at Sprint Center in KC, Mo., it's not quite the same advantage as playing at Phog Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence.  Having said that, this number is close to where it would be if they were playing on their true home floor.  Davidson was a 16-point dog at Chapel Hill last time out and played well, before losing 83-74, covering against the home standing Tar Heels.  Jack Gibbs and Peyton Aldridge are the real deal, averaging 24.3 ppg & 20 ppg, respectively.  The two combined for 52 points against North Carolina and I expect a big game from both again tonight.  Bob McKillop runs a tough-to-defend motion offense and his Wildcats get after it on the defensive end, where they have held their opponents to 37.9% shooting.  And if the spread comes down to free throws, we have an 80% FT shooting underdog, while KU makes a horrendous 58.8% from the stripe.  Kansas has covered just 2 of their last 8 as chalk, while the 'Cats are on a 6-1 ATS run off a SU loss and they're 7-0-1 ATS in their last eight against the Big-12.  I'm grabbing the points with Davidson, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the Portland Trail Blazers, my Slam Dunk on Thursday.  The Blazers have been "money" on the road against teams with a losing home record, cashing 10 of their last 14.  They most recently snapped a 4-game skid with an easy blowout win over OKC on Tuesday, a night when they were able to virtually take the fourth quarter off.  Tonight, they'll face a Nuggets' squad that has been struggling on the defensive end of the floor.  Denver is also off a 6-game, 10-day road trip and have dropped 11 straight ATS following a road trip of at least seven days.  While Denver is worried with shoring up defensive woes, the Blazers will only be concerned with beating Denver for the 6th straight time.  I'm betting they will.  I'm grabbing the short points with the Blazers, my Slam Dunk. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Incarnate Word on Wednesday night.  UNLV is a mess.  We've already won a couple of times going against them, including wins with South Alabama and this past weekend with Duke, a 94-45, 25-point cover.  The Runnin' Rebels are not only short on talent when all hands are on deck, but will likely be without two important players tonight with both Dwayne Morgan (9.4 ppg & 7.2 rpg) and Christian Jones (10.5 ppg & 6.5 rpg) listed as doubtful. Morgan and Jones are the top two rebounders on the team and the 3rd and 4th leading scorers. Incarnate Word entered this season 55-29 (.655) through their first three seasons at the Div.-1 level, and are 5-3 this season.  They also have one CIT appearances along the way.  The Cardinals own road wins over St. John's, Rice, and Nebraska, over the past couple of seasons and have faced road games at Oklahoma & Purdue. They also gave Texas a run for their money earlier this season in Austin before losing 78-73.  IW will not be intimidated by the small crowd in Las Vegas tonight. They also have four players averaging between 19.2 & 11.8 ppg and Shawn Johnson not only leads the team in scoring, but pulls down 9.4 rpg.  Finally, UNLV hosts this "unknown" foe between games against Duke and Oregon.  Tough spot for the Rebels.  We're grabbing the points with Incarnate Word on Wednesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Illinois-Chicago on Wednesday, my DogPound Crusher.  The Flames main weakness is deep perimeter defense, but DePaul is hardly the team to expose this issue. The Blue Demons are making less than 27% of their 3-point attempts this season (347th).  Only four players have actually made a 3-pointer for DePaul on the season and their leading scorer, Eli Cain has made just 11% of his treys over the last four games.  DePaul is a poor shooting team in general and they have covered just 7 of their last 25 home games.  UIC leading scorer, forward Dikembe Dixon (22.7 ppg & 6.7 rpg) should have little trouble creating havoc inside.  And we note that the Flames are among the best in the nation at drawing fouls, scoring over 22 ppg from the FT line.  UIC enters on a 9-4-1 ATS run when getting points and we'll back them tonight.  I'm taking the points with UIC, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with OKC, my Beatdown GOW on Sunday.  The Thunder had won and covered six straight games before losing 102-99 at home to Houston on Friday night.  We expect an immediate bounce back in the win column and by spread covering margin.  We backed Boston when they whipped Orlando by 30 points earlier this week.  Isaiah Thomas missed the game and we stated in the write-up that the Celtics could skate by short term without him, but not long term. Thomas missed the next game, a SU/ATS loss to Toronto and he's expected to miss this one, also. Even if he happens to play, he's not a good defensive matchup for Boston against Russell Westbrook.  Others will have to take turns defending the Thunder star whether Thomas plays or not and that's a big advantage for the home team.  The Celtics have covered just four of their last 16 against Western Conference teams and we don't like their current inconsistent form.  Meanwhile, the Thunder have covered six of their last seven and they're on a 4-0 ATS run against Eastern Conference teams.  I'm laying the points with the Thunder, my Beatdown on Sunday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with St. Joseph's, my Mismatch on Sunday.  The record may not look too pretty at first glance, but the Hawks opened the season with three straight wins, then took on a very difficult stretch of opponents.  St. Joe's hung tough before losing to Temple, NC State, and Ole Miss, then ran out of steam against top-ranked Villanova.  Nothing to be ashamed of in any of those defeats.  The level of competition drops off dramatically when they face inner-city rivals Drexel on Sunday.  The Dragons have struggled and mostly against lesser competition than the slate St. Joe's have faced.  Another big problem for Drexel has been turnovers.  The Dragons have committed 53 turnovers in their last three games against High Point, Lafayette, and LaSalle.  In fact, they averaged just 10 assists and 18 turnovers in those three outings.  Drexel enters on a 2-10-1 ATS slide as a home dog of less than 7 points, while the Hawks are on a 5-0-1 ATS run off a loss by more than 20.  They're also on a 6-1 ATS run in the last seven meetings at Drexel.  I'm laying the points with St. Joe's, my Sunday Mismatch.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Falcons my Main Event on Sunday.  Atlanta has had a chance for a little separation in the division, but have lost two of their last three, including last week's heartbreaking loss to the KC Chiefs. ATL actually gained 32 first downs to 17 for KC, but couldn't overcome a pick-6 and a pick-2.  But the NFL's #1 offense gets "just what the doctor ordered" in this one against a Rams' defense that has shown leaks the last two weeks allowing over 950 yards and 75 points.  Jeff Fisher's offense isn't much better and inserting rookie QB Jared Goff hasn't boosted the sluggish attack.  We note that NFL home teams with a losing record and off two straight road losses are just 20-42 ATS.  And while the Falcons are 5-1 ATS on the road this season, the Rams are on a 1-6-1 ATS slide in their last eight home games.  I'm laying the points with the Falcons, my Main Event. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Green Bay Packers, my DogPound Crusher.  The underdog is on a 10-3-1 ATS run in Packer games and we expect that trend to continue.  Two weeks ago, Seattle scored just 5 points in a 14-5 loss to Tampa Bay.  So, while many are singing the praises of the Seahawk attack off the 40-7 win over Carolina, I'm not quite sold.  They did that against the 30th ranked pass defense in the NFL and the task gets a little tougher this week.  I don't believe you'll see Seattle moving the ball up and down the field this week.  What I do believe will happen is continued success for Aaron Rodgers and Jordy Nelson, who looks like he is finally back to 100%. Rodgers has completed 50 of his last 69 passes (72%) for 522 yards, 4 TDs and 0 INTs.  The Pack offense will face a Seattle defense without Earl Thomas (IR) and I believe that's a bigger deal than even some around the NFL are making it out to be.  We also have a Seattle team with a 3-game divisional lead, while it's virtually now or never time for the Pack.  Green Bay has been "money" in December under HC Mike McCarthy, going 28-15 ATS, including a current 6-1 ATS run.  They're also 10-2 ATS against teams that hold the opposition to an average of no more than 17 ppg. McCarthy has solved solid defenses more often than not in his stay in Green Bay.  I'm betting he'll do it again.  I'm taking the points with the Packers, my DogPound on Sunday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Redskins on Sunday, my Road Warrior.  Washington has dropped two straight, including the loss last week to Arizona.  They could use a win to inch closer to a wildcard playoff spot and while Kirk Cousins didn't have a great game last week, he's certainly been much better than his counterpart.  Carson Wentz looks to have hit the rookie-wall.  Wentz has thrown 10 INTs in his last seven outings.  Philly is a far cry from where they were when they began the season 3-0.  The Eagles have dropped seven of their last nine and the defense has allowed 26 or more points in five of their last six games.  And while the Skins enter on an 8-2 ATS run, the Eagles are just 1-5 ATS in their last six games.  The Skins have also covered 5 straight in this series. I'm laying the short number with the Washington Redskins, my Road Warrior. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing Valparaiso, my KO release on Saturday.  Both the Crusaders and Missouri State have two losses on the season, but that's where the similarity ends.  Valpo is battle tested.  They had the unfortunate task of facing Oregon off the Ducks' 17-point loss to Baylor, and if that wasn't enough, they faced Kentucky at Rupp Arena, following the Wildcats' 97-92 home loss to UCLA. Talk about examples of wrong place, wrong time!  Meanwhile, 5-2 Missouri State's losses came against Air Force and DePaul.  Valpo's forward-guard tandem of Alec Peters (25.1 ppg & 9 rpg) and Shane Hammink (14.6 ppg & 4.9 rpg) should prove too much for the Bears.  We expect a better overall season in the MVC for Mo-State, but we believe they're a tad overvalued against this Horizon League foe.  Valpo is on an 8-1 ATS run when the line is in the +3/-3 range and they're 28-7 ATS off a SU road loss.  The Crusaders won last year's meeting, 74-45.  We don't expect a blowout of that magnitude in Springfield tonight, but we do expect a win and subsequent cover.  I'm backing Valparaiso, my KO release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Duke on Saturday, my Daytime Dominator. We have already played against the rebuilding Runnin' Rebels twice this season and we'll look for another win doing so here.  UNLV's weaknesses were on display against a so-so Arizona State squad in the Sun Devils 97-73 win last Saturday.  ASU nailed 49% of their FGA, including 50% of their treys. Besides the fact they're short-handed and coached by the administration's 4th or 5th choice as the person to succeed Dave Rice, UNLV will likely attempt to play a faster pace than they should, playing right into Duke's desired tempo.  The Blue Devils have put five players in double-digits in seven games already this season.  UNLV has covered just one of their last seven as an underdog, while Duke is 4-0 ATS against MWC competition.  We saw the Blue Devils crush Appalachian State by 35 points a couple of weeks ago.  UNLV and App State rate close to the same level in our power rankings.  We expect a similar margin in this one.  I'm laying the points with Duke, my Daytime Dominator. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the NY Knicks, my Slam Dunk on Friday night.  Derrick Rose is listed as day-to-day heading into Friday night, nursing a back injury, but the Knicks are a play for us whether he suits-up or not.  Brandon Jennings is actually the assist per game leader on the team and can play extended minutes on a short term basis if needed.  NY took one on the chin against Cleveland last time out, but they handled the Kings in a 106-98 victory this past weekend.  I don't believe Sacto will avenge the loss. The Knicks have won nine of their last 13 games SU and they're on a 10-2 ATS run.  The Kings are home for the first time since November 25, having just played five road games since November 27.  They book-ended the trip with a pair of high scoring wins, but I expect the Kings to have a hard time with NY at the other end of the floor tonight. Prior to the loss to the Cavaliers, the Knicks scored 104 points or more in nine of 11 games, scoring in triple figures in all 11.  They're on a 4-0, 100% ATS run on one day rest and 4-1-1 ATS in the last six meetings. We'll back the Knicks, my Friday night Slam Dunk.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Oakland Raiders on Thursday night, my KO release. The Raiders have been money on the road, having covered 10 of their last 11 and we expect the Raider offense to be the difference in this one once again.  Oakland's defense leaves something to be desired, but KC doesn't own the offense that gains a lot of separation.  They plod their way through games and give them credit, Andy Reid and Alex Smith have worked together well to win nine of 12 games this season.  The KC defense has their issues, in the bottom-third against both the run and pass and 29th in the league in total yards allowed per game. Look for the red-hot Raider offense to pull away in this one.  KC enters on a 1-7 ATS slide at home and the Raiders are on an 8-2 ATS run at Arrowhead. I'm taking the points with the Raiders, my KO release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Wizards, my Thursday night Slam Dunk.  Washington hasn't played up to their potential for most of the season, and they're off a 124-116 loss to Orlando (we won with the Magic).  But tonight they're getting "just what the doctor ordered," when Denver pays a visit.  The Nuggets are playing in the second of back-to-back nights (2-5 ATS in this spot) and in their fourth game in six nights, overall.  Making matters tougher, the Nuggets played their tails off in the fourth quarter in Brooklyn last night, pulling within two points inside 20 seconds left in the game before losing 116-111.  We expect Denver to wear down in the fourth quarter tonight.  As mentioned above, the Wizards lost last time out as a favorite and we note that Scott Brooks' coached teams are 69-39 ATS off a loss as a favorite.  We expect a bounce back for his troops tonight.  I'm laying the points with the Wizards, my Thursday Slam Dunk.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Pacers, my Wednesday Wipeout.  The Suns are in a tough spot having played last night in Salt Lake, a game that may have taken a lot out of them.  Phoenix trailed Utah by 19 points after three quarters, but fought hard in the fourth, pulling even at 103 with 2 minutes to go before eventually losing 112-105.  They simply ran out of gas down the stretch and I expect the big fourth quarter run to weaken the legs a bit tonight.  Indiana comes to town looking to bounce back from a 142-106 loss to Golden State on Monday.  The Pacers have reacted well in this situation, on a 10-1 ATS run the last three seasons off a road loss by at least 15 points.  They'll also look to avenge a 20-point home loss to Phoenix just a few weeks ago.  I believe they'll win by a spread covering margin and I'm laying the points with the Pacers, my Wednesday Wipeout.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Indiana State on Wednesday, my Value Beatdown.  This isn't the first time we have taken big points with the Sycamores, having taken 13 when they took Iowa State to the wire in a 73-71 loss, easily covering the spread.  ISU has been "money" outside of Mo-Valley action, currently on a 13-3-1 ATS run, and they're a perfect 5-0, 100% as an underdog this season.  ISU plays outstanding defense, ranked 37th in FG percentage allowed and 35th defending the trey.  The Sycamores also have a fantastic backcourt tandem of Brenton Scott and Everett Clemons.  Scott is averaging 19.1 ppg and 5.4 rpg, while Clemsons has dished out 47 assists with just 14 turnovers on the season and 10 players average more than 10 minutes played per game. Butler won last year's battle, 85-71, falling short of a 17-point spread.  The final score was a tad misleading as ISU was within six with 7 1/2 minutes to go.  BU outscored ISU 24-13 at the FT line, afforded 15 more attempts.  Butler heads into this one on a 6-16-1 ATS slide as a 7 to 12 1/2-point road favorite.  We'll back Indiana State, our Value Beatdown.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with UC-Irvine on Tuesday night, my Slam Dunk.  Arizona is off the loss to Gonzaga, getting knocked around throughout the course of the game.  The final score of 69-62 didn't tell the story and was misleading.  Arizona trailed by double-digits less than four minutes into the game, at halftime, and by 14 with less than eight minutes to go in the game.  And now, not only is Arizona still missing Allonzo Trier (eligibility), but the backcourt was further depleted with the high ankle injury to starting point-guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright who is expected to miss eight weeks.  UCI has big-time size on the interior and they play a deliberate, slow tempo game. I doubt they'll allow U of A to get into a track meet meaning this game stays inside the hefty number.  The Wildcats are just 1-4 ATS in their last five home games, while the Anteaters are on a 6-1 ATS run, overall.  I'm taking the points with UC-Irvine, my Slam Dunk on Tuesday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm grabbing the points with the Magic, my TKO.  Orlando has a chance to wrap-up a very good road trip with a win tonight.  They have already beaten Detroit and San Antonio during the 3-1 road stretch.  The Magic have been slamming the door on the defensive end and we expect them to throw a wrench into the Wizards' system tonight. Washington is off a nice win on Monday, beating the Nets in Brooklyn, thanks to a 67-point second half.  We doubt they'll find the same open looks against the Magic.  Washington is also just 3-9 ATS when playing in the second of back-to-back nights and they have covered just one of their last five off a SU win.  Meanwhile, the Magic are on a 4-1 ATS road run.  I'm grabbing the points with the Magic, my TKO.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Charlotte on Tuesday, my DogPound release.  We played against Charlotte over the weekend and cashed when Oregon State covered the number.  We have a pretty good read on the 49ers and feel they're a "play-on" getting double-digits from Wake Forest. Charlotte will use their 3-guard attack with all three averaging more than 12 ppg led by Jon Davis (20.8 ppg).  And while Charlotte shoots well from behind the arc, Wake Forest has been struggling of late, making just 10 of their last 50 3-pointers.  Wake frontliners have been a turnover waiting to happen with Arians, Collins, Mitoglou, and Moore committing a combined 49 turnovers this season with just 16 assists.  Wake heads into this one having covered just 3 of their last 17 home games, including a 0-4-1 ATS mark at home when favored by 13 or more.  Meanwhile, Charlotte is on a 19-9-1 ATS run, overall.  I'm grabbing the points with Charlotte, my DogPound on Tuesday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, my DogPound Crusher.  The Buccs allowed 43 points in a 15-point loss to Atlanta to open the month of November.  But since then, the Buccaneers have been red-hot on the defensive side of the football, holding their last three opponents to a grand total of just 32 points, including last weekend when they held Seattle to 5 points.  The Buccs held the three opponents to an average of just 290 total yards per game, while the pass defense has 5 INTs, allowing just 2 TDs.  Meanwhile, Jameis Winston has been taking care of the football, throwing 14 TD passes in his last 7 games with just 3 INTs.  The Chargers won last week, but were outgained by 51 yards in a 21-13 win over the Texans. They took advantage of 4 Houston turnovers and a +3 turnover margin. SDG has covered just 2 of their last 10 off a win and they're 3-9 ATS at home against teams with a winning road record.  Tampa Bay is 4-1 SU/ATS away from home.  I'm taking the points with the Buccaneers, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Buffalo Bills, my Underdog KO.  Tough spot for the Oakland Raiders, who continue to win games despite a lot of fundamental flaws on the defensive side of the football.  The Raiders are off the hard-fought win over Carolina last week after blowing a 17-point halftime lead, then coming from behind after trailing 32-24 with less than nine minutes left in the fourth quarter.  Oakland has been "living right," with 1-point wins over the Saints & Ravens, 3-point wins over Carolina and San Diego, and an OT win over Tampa Bay.  It'll be interesting to see how effective the offense is this week, facing the Bills' stingy pass defense.  Meanwhile, Oakland ranks 26th against the run and 28th against the pass.  This is the type of defense Tyrod Taylor should enjoy facing.  Finally, NFL home teams have covered just 10 of their last 44 when the line is in the +3/-3 range and they're off a win, while failing to cover as chalk.  Also, Oakland is just 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games. I'm grabbing the points with the Bills, my Underdog Knockout. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, my Road Warrior.  Philly hasn't had it easy since their 3-0 start to the season, but they're getting "just what the doctor ordered" in this one. The Eagles need to be able to run the football for the offense to operate at its best and Cincy's weak run defense is exactly what they need to get back on track.  Once the Eagles begin moving the ball on the ground, Carson Wentz can get back to the ball control passing game he ran early in the season.  Meanwhile, the Cincinnati offense is banged-up and have scored 20 or fewer points in seven of their last 10 games.  The Eagles enter on a 9-1 ATS run against AFC opponents, while the Bengals are 0-6 ATS this season when the line is in the +3/-3 range as it is today.  I'm backing the Eagles, my Road Warrior.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Indiana State, my DogPound Crusher.  Greg Lansing took his first four Sycamore teams to postseason tourneys, but his last two have fallen short.  However, we believe this season will mark a return to postseason play.  Indiana State's 3-4 SU record is misleading. The Sycamores are eight points from a 6-0 SU run, including a 73-71 hard-fought loss to a very good Iowa State team. None of ISU's four losses have come by more than three points and they're outstanding on the defensive end of the floor.  Utah State began the season with wins over UC-Irvine, NJIT, and Idaho State.  But when the competition stepped-up, the losses started coming and by margin.  The Aggies have lost three in a row by 21, 24, and 14 points.  And while Indiana State may not be at the level of those teams, Purdue, Texas Tech, and BYU, they will force USU out of the offensive comfort zone.  ISU has covered four straight as a dog and they're on a 12-3-1 ATS run in non-conference action.  Once again, we feel they're undervalued.  I'm grabbing the points with Indiana State, my DogPound Crusher.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Vanderbilt, my Knockout Shocker on Saturday.  The Commodores lost a couple of key players from last season's squad, but Bryce Drew is not without talent in his first year in Nashville.  Vandy will still burn teams from the deep perimeter and they're making 41% of their 3-pointers, good enough to rank 22nd in the nation. Richard Pitino is off to a good start in a season when he needs to impress the administration.  But Minnesota is overvalued in this one.  In fact, according to my power ratings, the wrong team has been installed the favorite in this neutral court affair (Sioux Falls, SD).  Vandy put it all together in their most recent game, handing Tennessee State (6-1) their first loss of the season with an 83-59 thrashing. And if it comes down to it, we also have the nation's 30th best FT shooting team on our side.  Vandy enters on a 39-17 ATS run following a win by 20 or more, while the Gophers are on a 5-15-1 ATS neutral site slide. We'll take the points with Vanderbilt, our Knockout Shocker.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with West Virginia on Saturday, my Main Event.  Baylor University went through a lot of tragedy due to the football program's behavior off the field, but the team itself was able to maintain focus while it was winning games.  HC Jim Grobe took the interim job as a favor to the administration, but assistants who remained had certainly given 100% of their loyalty to the dismissed Art Briles.  The Bears began the season 6-0, but once they took their first loss on October 29, the wheels came off.  The team completely lost focus and the coaching staff splintered.  No one is recruiting and assistants have been looking for other jobs.  Baylor has dropped five straight games SU & ATS, allowing 47.6 ppg during the skid.  The closest margin of defeat in their last four games was 19 points as a couple of Big-12 opponents exacted revenge. West Virginia is the final team to take a shot at revenge after losing 62-38 in Waco last season.  The Mountaineers are off a 49-19 win in Ames, and while they can't catch Oklahoma for top-spot in the conference, they can reach their 10th win of the season and possibly improve their bowl resume.  WVU's 23rd ranked running game and 25th ranked passing game (514.6 total yards per game) ought to have a field day with the "checked-out" Baylor defense.  All we need is focus from the Mountaineers and there's no reason to think they won't.  As mentioned, Baylor has dropped five in a row ATS.  They're also on a 0-6 ATS slide on the road. The season couldn't end fast enough for the Bears and I'm backing West Virginia, minus the points, my Main Event.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm grabbing the points with Temple on Saturday, my DogPound release.  The Owls have dropped their first game of the season ATS, but have covered each and every game since.  Defense is their calling card, one of the best units in all of college football defending the run, the pass, and in total yards allowed per game.  And if you can slow down the Navy ground game, their weak passing game is not going to beat you in all likelihood.  The Owls own the defensive athletes to handle the Middies.  Navy's defense gives up a lot of yardage, especially through the air where they rank 107th in yards passing per contest.  I expect Owls' QB Phillip Walker to take full advantage.  Navy is giving up 440 yards per contest and we note that Temple is on a 9-0 ATS run against teams that allow at least 425 yards per game.  The Owls have averaged 41 ppg in those nine games.  We'll grab the points with Temple, my DogPound release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night.  We know about the situations that point against the Cowboys on Thursday, but this obviously is a different Cowboy edition. Dallas not only has a QB with 18 TD passes and just 2 INTs, but the running game is fantastic. Ezekiel Elliott has been nothing short of outstanding and while the Viking defense has played well again this season, the fact is, they're middle of the pack against the run.  Once Dallas flexes their running game muscle, Dak Prescott and the passing game should find enough openings to gain the SU and ATS win.  Dallas has had problems against decent passing games, but 1) Minnesota doesn't own a decent passing game, and 2) it sure hasn't hurt Dallas in the win/loss column.  As far as Minnesota is concerned, they have won just one of their last six games, and the win over Arizona happened thanks to a 100-yard pick-6 and a 104-yard kickoff return for a TD.  The offense gained just 217 total yards in the win.  Dallas is on a 9-1 ATS run, overall, and they're on 5-0 SU/ATS on the road this season.  Meanwhile, Minnesota's spread magic has hit the skids, dropping five of their last six ATS.  I'm laying the points with the Cowboys on Thursday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with St. Mary's, my KO release.  This marks the second time we'll have played the Gaels, winning the first when they won and covered at Dayton.  SMC is deep and getting outstanding play in the paint and on the perimeter.  They're fundamentally sound, not only making a high percentage of shots, but with 99 assists and just 42 turnovers on the season, an average of 19.8 apg and 8.4 tpg.  Stanford is off a nice win over Seton Hall, but this is their toughest test yet and we don't believe they have the offensive firepower to hang with the Gaels, who're playing well on the defensive end, also.  SMC has held their last three opponents to 63, 64, and 57 points. They head into Wednesday on an 8-0 ATS run after allowing 65 points of less over the last three seasons.  SMC also enters on a 7-0 ATS run as a road favorite of less than 7 points.  We'll back them again.  I'm laying the points with St. Mary's my Knockout on Wednesday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Washington, my DogPound release.  These teams met just four days ago in Las Vegas with TCU coming away with a 93-80 victory. The final score is a bit misleading because it was a four-point game midway through the second half.  In fact, TCU didn't truly put it away until Washington phenom Markelle Fultz (23 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 6.7 apg) fouled-out with roughly seven minutes to go.  At the time, Fultz had 27 points and 5 steals. U-Dub gave up too many layups on Saturday and we expect more attention to the defensive end tonight.  Add in their work on the offensive end where they average 91 ppg on 50% shooting and we expect a close, tight contest to the very end. We note that Washington is on a 32-21 ATS run in revenge under Lorenzo Romar, while the Horned Frogs are on a 2-9 ATS slide off a SU win.  I'm taking the points with Washington, my DogPound release on Wednesday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Pelicans on Tuesday, my Slam Dunk.  Coach Alvin Gentry was not happy with his team after a lackluster effort against a 2-13 Dallas team on Sunday night as New Orleans led by six points early in the fourth quarter and then was outscored 29-13 for a 91-81 loss. Anthony Davis did his part, as usual, scoring 36 points with 13 rebounds, however, Jrue Holiday was the only other player in double figures with 17 points coming off the bench.  Fortunately for the Pelicans, they return home where they have won and covered four in a row.   The Lakers are playing without point guard D'Angelo Russell (knee) and Julius Randle has missed the last three games with a hip pointer and is questionable for this game.  New Orleans is in a revenge situation after losing 126-99 in the first meeting on Nov. 12 when the Lakers shot 55.3 percent from the field and Russell scored 22 points. The Lakers are averaging 46.0 percent shooting on the season and are last in the NBA is defensive field goal percentage (.484). I'm laying the points with the Pelicans, my Slam Dunk.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Villanova, my Matchup Mismatch.  The Wildcats look primed to make a legitimate run at their second straight national title. They're off-and-running and face a completely out-manned Penn Quakers' squad that's been all over the eastern seaboard, except in their home city of Philadelphia.  Penn lost their leading scorer and rebounder from last season, center Darien Nelson-Henry.  Their biggest problem last year was that they couldn't shoot the basketball. This season's numbers are better, but misleading because they have played just one step-up opponent (Miami-Fla) and shot less than 40%, while committing 20 turnovers.  Meanwhile, despite having to replace two key parts to last year's championship team, Jay Wright's Wildcats are once again loaded with five players averaging from 18 ppg to 11 ppg.  Penn loves to use a 3-guard attack, but so does Nova and they obviously do so at an entirely different level.  Tonight's line opened shorter than any of the previous three meetings and we'll look to take advantage.  I'm laying the points with Villanova, my Matchup Mismatch.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Grizzlies, my Mismatch release. Memphis won the first meeting 105-90 on Nov. 21 at Charlotte as Mike Conley poured in 31 points for the Grizzlies, who have won seven of their last eight games (6-2 ATS).  Memphis won at Miami 110-107 on Saturday shooting 50.7 percent from the field as Marc Gasol scored a team-leading 28 points and Conley added 18 points. The Hornets snapped a four-game losing streak with a 107-102 win over New York after blowing a 16-point first quarter lead.  Kemba Walker led the Hornets with 28 points and Jeremy Lamb had a spectacular night on the boards grabbing 17 rebounds and scoring 18 points while starting in place of the injured Marvin Williams, who is out for about a week.  Memphis has a huge edge on defense allowing 96.9 points per game while Charlotte has given up an average of 112.0 its last five games, which includes two overtime losses. I'm backing the Memphis Grizzlies, minus the points, my Mismatch release. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Chiefs on Sunday night.  KC doesn't often disappoint on the road.  In fact, Andy Reid-coach teams have been true road warriors in the second half of the season under his direction, going 47-29 ATS.  His Chiefs enter this one on a 4-0 ATS run off a cover.  We expect the Chiefs' defense to set the tone in this one, facing a pedestrian Bronco attack.  Meanwhile, the KC offense should find room to run against one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, setting up KC's conservative passing game.  The road team has been the way to go in this series, covering five straight and we'll go the way of the roadie tonight.  I'm grabbing the points with the Chiefs, my Sunday Slam.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.  

I'm laying the points with the Pelicans, my Slam Dunk on Sunday.  Dallas has lost eight games in a row (1-7 ATS) and comes off a 38-point loss at Cleveland on Friday in a game when the Mavericks trailed 72-38 at the half.  Dirk Nowitzki has returned to the lineup and was the leading scorer with 15 points but his team shot just 40.7 percent and was 8-for-35 from three-point range.  Dallas is last in the NBA averaging 91.5 points per game and 29th in field goal percentage (.410).  New Orleans snapped a four-game winning streak with a 109-104 loss at Portland, but the Pelicans have been much improved since Jrue Holiday returned to the team giving them more depth at the guard position.  Holiday scored 16 points off the bench against the Trail Blazers and Anthony Davis scored a team-leading 31 points with 13 rebounds.  New Orleans is 6-1 ATS its last seven games and the Mavericks are 1-7 ATS their last eight home games. I'm laying the points with the Pelicans, my Slam Dunk.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the NY Jets, my Top Shocker on Sunday.  This is a classic Sharps/Squares clash in Las Vegas sports books and we're siding with the sharp money, although that's not the reason we are on the dog.  This series has been ultra close with the Jets on a 5-0-1 ATS run.  Each of the last six meetings were decided by 7 or fewer points and four of the games were decided by no more than a field goal. Ryan Fitzpatrick gets the start on Sunday after throwing 5 TD passes with no INTs in last year's two meetings. The Jets certainly have the running game and receivers to keep this one close.  Meanwhile, I do believe the Jets and their 4th ranked run defense will keep New England in-check.  New York has bounced back well at home off a home loss, currently on an 18-5 ATS run in this spot.  I'm grabbing the points with the Jets, my Top Shocker on Sunday.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with LaSalle, my Mismatch on Sunday.  The Explorers were hamstrung last season due to a lack of talent, but as some put it, their best three players were all sitting out a transfer season.  Those three players (B.J. Johnson, Pookie Powell, and Demetrius Henry) are all playing well through three games in 2016.  Forward B.J. Johnson leads the team in scoring (18.7 ppg) & PG Pookie Powell has 15 assists and just 3 turnovers, while averaging 13 ppg.  In fact, Powell and backcourt mates Jordan Price & Amar Stukes have combined for 34 assists and just 11 turnovers in LaSalle's 1-2 start.  The Drexel Dragons won't be able to match up in our opinion. New coach Zach Spiker has to replace four of Drexel's top six scorers from a season ago and the Dragons are likely going to have to battle to stay out of the CAA cellar this season.  They're on a 17-37-3 ATS slide at home, including 4-15 ATS at home against teams that make at least 8 3-pointers per game.  LaSalle has made 9 in each of their first three contests.  LaSalle owns the talent advantage in this meeting as Drexel is in rebuilding mode with a new coach. I'm laying the points with LaSalle, my Mismatch on Sunday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the SDG Chargers, my Situational KO on Sunday.  Houston's obviously in a tough spot, having lost in the most frustrating of ways on Monday night in Mexico City. The problem with Houston is their one-dimensional offense, able to run the ball for the most part, but with one of the worst passing offenses in the NFL. Brock Osweiler is completing less than 60% of his passes with 12 TDs and 10 INTs.  SDG's defensive strength is their run defense and they're connecting for over 275 yards passing per game on offense.  We note that the Chargers six losses have come by a grand total of just 29 points, virtually in every single game.  The Bolts are on a 9-2 ATS run on the road and they're on a 9-1 ATS run off a SU loss.  Big situational advantage for the road team and we'll back the SDG Chargers, our Situational KO.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with New Mexico, my DogPound release.  We have been involved in a few Wyoming games this season, including a big win for us when they took down Utah State following a big win over Boise State.  This time we'll play against the Cowboys.  Wyoming is off four straight emotionally taxing games, culminating in last week's outright underdog, 34-33 win over San Diego State.  The defense leaves a lot to be desired and Bob Davie teams are 19-8 ATS against teams that allow at least 31 ppg.  They're also 9-1 ATS against teams that are playing .600 to .750 football. Look for UNM to run the football, doing what they do best against a WYO defense that has allowed 102 points and 579 yards rushing on 95 carries (6.1 yards per carry) in their last two games, combined.  I'm taking the points with New Mexico, my DogPound on Saturday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Utah Utes, my Pac-12 Knockout Game of the Month. Colorado controls their own destiny and will claim the Pac-12 South with a win in this one.  That's a lot of pressure on a team that was as low as it gets just a couple seasons ago. The current five-game winning streak is their longest in 14 years.  Utah was eliminated from the division title with a loss to Oregon last week as an 11 point favorite.  CFB conference dogs of 3 1/2 to 10 points are on a 42-13 ATS run following a SU loss as a double digit favorite.  The Utes are just 14 points from an 11-0 record.  The ground game should be able to set the tempo for this one and I do believe Joe Williams will find efficient yardage behind his offensive line.  I also like the fact they have been true road warriors, posting an 8-0 ATS run on the road against winning teams over the last three seasons.  I expect this one to remain close throughout, giving us value on the road team.  I'm grabbing the points with Utah, my Pac-12 Knockout.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Charlotte on Saturday, my Shocker.  Davidson is being overvalued in our opinion on Saturday. We like a live underdog that knows how to shoot from all spots on the floor. And while the Wildcats are leaving a lot to be desired with their shots, Charlotte is one of the most accurate teams in CBB.  The 49ers not only average 95 ppg, but they're nailing 49% of their FGA and 48.4% of their 3-points, good enough to rank 2nd in the nation behind the arc.  Charlotte has covered 8 of their last 10 off a SU loss, so they normally bounce back well, and they're on a 5-0 ATS non-conf run.  The Wildcats have covered just 4 of their last 16 non-conf games.  Again, we like a double digit dog that can shoot the rock and we'll grab the points today with Charlotte, our Shocker on Saturday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Michigan, my Beatdown release.  Ohio State has owned this series of late, winning 11 of the last 12 meetings, while scoring 42 points in each of the last three.  But few DC's have developed a scheme for slowing spread attack, Buckeye-style offenses like Michigan DC Don Brown.  This marks the first time J.T. Barrett and company have faced his schemes since Brown signed-on with Michigan last December after guiding Boston College to the #1 ranked defense in 2015.  The Wolverines have responded in quick fashion under his guidance and rank #1 in total yards allowed per game, passing yards per game, and in points allowed per game. And don't think about running against them, they allow 108.6 yards rushing per contest.  The Buckeyes are vulnerable to a well-coached, athletic defense as we've seen four times in Ohio State's last six games.  I do believe the Wolverines will be up to the task of slowing Ohio State's offense, while the U-M offense does enough to at least cover the spread if not win outright.  Michigan has covered five straight on the road against teams with a winning record and Ohio State has covered just 6 of their last 22 against teams that allow no more than 5.75 yards passing per attempt. Michigan's defense fits the bill.  I'm taking the points with Michigan.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Utah, my Blockbuster Blowout on Friday.  We haven't backed too many big favorites this season, but this one certainly warrants doing so.  UC-Riverside is one of the worst offensive teams in college basketball.  Remove a game against Fresno-Pacific from the schedule and you'll see UCR made just 33.8% of their FGA, including 18.4% of their 3-pointers in their two games against division-1 opposition.  They lost both by double digits.  Utah may not be quite at the level of last year's 27-9 squad, but they're much better than UNLV and Portland, the two teams who have already pounded the Highlanders. Utah has played a soft slate thus far, but UCR qualifies as another softy. The Utes are averaging over 90 ppg and they have been outstanding on the defensive end, holding teams to 24.6% shooting, including 20.3% from behind the arc. Those numbers will go up as the opposition gets better, but the Utes were focused on playing better 3-point defense this season and we doubt UCR will put a dent in their strong numbers so far this season.  10 Utes are averaging at least 12 minutes played per game and five average in double digits in scoring.  Utah beat UCR 88-42 just two seasons ago.  Many faces have changed, but we expect another spread covering mismatch. I'm laying the points with Utah, my Blockbuster Blowout.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Tulsa on Friday night.  Not sure we can find two teams headed in an opposite direction as much as these two are.  Cincinnati is a mess with a HC on the hottest of seats, while Tulsa's offense is clicking on all cylinders.  The Golden Hurricane have won four of their last five games, covering six straight, and they're just a 7-point loss to Houston and a 2-point loss to Navy from a 10-1 SU record.  Tulsa has averaged 46 ppg in their last five outings, averaging 566 yards per game on 7 yards per play. HC Philip Montgomery has developed a running attack that's averaged 318 yards per game on 6.1 yards per carry over the last five games, while the passing game has generated 14 TD passes and just 2 INTs.  Montgomery was the OC & QB coach at Baylor from 2012 through 2014, so yes, he knows a thing or two about offense.  QB Dane Evans needs just 261 yards passing to hit 3,000 yards on the season and Tulsa has not one, but two RBs who have each rushed for more tha 1,200 yards on a combined 6 yards per carry.  And if that's not enough, Tulsa is loaded at WR with three players gaining between 635 and 988 yards receiving.  This is not good news for a Bearcats' squad that looks to have "checked out."  We like to call it our "dead team" list when we reach the second week of November and beyond and Cincy is surely a part of it.  UC has scored 13, 3, 3, & 7 points in their last four games, averaging 263 total yards per game on just 4.16 yards per play.  That includes 92.5 yards rushing per game on 3.14 per carry. The passing game isn't much better.  We also note that if needed, Tulsa should have little trouble distancing themselves from UC in the second half. Tommy Tuberville's troops have been outscored 48-7 in the second half of their last four contests.  They're 0-5 ATS against teams with a winning record and on a 0-6 ATS slide off a home loss.  Not only has Tulsa covered six straight, but CFB teams are 23-5 ATS as home chalk of 21.5 to 31 points, provided they average at least 230 yards rushing per game and their opponent averages just 100 to 140 yards rushing per game.  Tulsa gains a measure of revenge for last year's loss and builds their resume for the bowl season.  I'm laying the points with Tulsa, my CFB Game of the Year.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm backing the NY Knicks, my Friday Slam Dunk.  New York has won and covered five home games in a row as Kristaps Porzingis is becoming a dominant force for the Knicks, who beat Portland on Wednesday with Porzingis scoring 31 points and pulling down nine rebounds.  Derrick Rose scored 18 points and Carmelo Anthony added 17 points and six boards in the 107-103 win. New York won without Joakim Noah, who was out with an illness, but he's expected to play tonight.  Charlotte center Cody Zeller has missed the last three games with a shoulder injury and the Hornets lost all three, including their last two home games against Memphis and San Antonio. Zeller is questionable for tonight's game.  The Hornets had eight players score in double figures against the Spurs and still lost the game and they have allowed an average of 115 points their last three contests.  This is a near pick 'em game and we'll back the Knicks, my Slam Dunk on Friday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with the Vikings on Thursday, my KO release.  We had the Vikings this past Sunday and cashed the ticket when they snapped their four-game losing streak with a 30-24 win over Arizona.  It wasn't your classic way to 30, getting their with a pick-6 and a kick-off return for a TD, but I do believe it's the type of win that will get this team back on track, at least for another week.  The Viking defense was outstanding again, holding the Cardinals to 290 yards on 4.39 yards per play.  Detroit has no running game to keep the Vikings' honest and that spells trouble for the Lions' middle of the pack passing game, also. And while they have won five of their last six games, they're 20 points away from a nine-game losing streak.  Detroit has won two games by more than four points all season, one of those was a seven-point win and the other, a six-point win over these Vikings came in OT.  The Vikings head into this one on a 6-1 ATS run on the road against teams with a winning home record, while the Lions are on a 3-9 ATS divisional slide. Finally, the dog has covered five of the last six meetings.  I'm grabbing the points with the Vikings my NFC North Knockout.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with Indiana State on Thursday, my Shocker release. Simply put -- the Sycamores have been undervalued here and we expect them to give the Cyclones their toughest test of the young season.  ISU has been a bankroll burner as a double digit favorite under HC Prohm, covering just 12 of 40.  We're betting this game plays much closer than the line would indicate throughout the course of the contest.  I'm grabbing the points with Indiana State, my Shocker on Thursday. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Rockets on Wednesday, my Wipeout release. These are two teams that are going in different directions as Houston has won three in a row and covered five straight and Toronto has lost four of its last five games.  The Rockets won at Detroit 99-96 on Monday when James Harden scored 28 points with eight rebounds and seven assists.  Patrick Beverley is back in the lineup after missing the first 11 games of the season and contributed nine points. The Rockets are 10-4 ATS and 4-1 straight up at home. The Raptors are playing their fourth road game in six days and come off a 123-115 loss at the Clippers on Monday.  Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan combined for 52 points but the Clippers shot 52.7 percent from the field as Toronto continued to struggle defensively.  Houston has covered the number seven straight on one day of rest and the Raptors are just 2-6-1 ATS their last  nine games in Houston. I'm laying the points with the Rockets, my Wipeout release.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm taking the points with North Texas, my Wednesday Shocker.  The Mean Green return four of their five starters from last year's team and are looking to take a step or two in the right direction in C-USA.  Their biggest problem last season was hanging onto the basketball, committing too many turnovers.  But Rutgers isn't a squad that forces teams into committing a lot of miscues, even in their 4-0 start to the season.  In fact, toss out a meaningless game against Molloy and the Scarlet Knights have forced just 34 turnovers in three games.  I do like the hire of Steve Pikiell, who did a fantastic job at Stony Brook.  I do believe he'll turn this cellar-dwelling program around relatively soon. However, I don't believe they should be laying this many points quite yet, to this opponent. I'm grabbing the points with North Texas, my Wednesday Shocker.  Please check back for possible additional plays on Wednesday on these pages.  Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with the Thunder on Tuesday, my Slam Dunk.  Oklahoma City has beaten the Lakers nine times in a row, (6-1 L7 ATS), including 113-96 on Oct. 30 when Russell Westbrook finished with 33 points, 11 rebounds and 16 assists.  The Thunder comes off a tough overtime loss to Indiana as Westbrook had a similar performance with 31 points, 11 boards and 15 assists.  The Lakers have lost three of their last four games as their defense has been ineffective allowing an average of 119.3 points during that span.  Chicago shot 51.7 percent and Jimmy Butler exploded for 40 points as the Bulls beat the Lakers 118-110 on Sunday and winning the rebounding battle 56-37.  Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell is questionable with a knee injury.  The Thunder is #16 in the league with a .445 defensive field goal percentage while the Lakers are dead last at .475.  We'll lay the points with the Thunder, my Slam Dunk GOW. Thanks & GL!  Scott Spreitzer.

I'm laying the points with Middle Tennessee State, my Beatdown play on Tuesday.  The Blue Raiders return two key cogs from last year's 25-10 season, including Reggie Upshaw and Giddy Potts.  Potts led the nation in 3-point shooting percentage last season.  But as good as these two players are, neither is leading the team in scoring. That distinction belongs to yet another talented baller in JaCorey Williams. The 6'8 forward, an Arkansas transfer is lighting it up after sitting out last season.  Williams is averaging 20.3 ppg on 55% shooting.  Toledo doesn't have the defenders to matchup with these three players mentioned above.  And the Rockets' leading scorer, Jonathan Williams is throwing down 21.7 ppg, but making just 40% of his FGA.  I expect Williams' scoring to drop-off in this one.  Both teams are 2-1 SU, but Toledo can get a little careless with the basketball as we have seen in their loss to St. Joe's and somewhat against Wright State.  I expect MTSU to get after it and force Toledo miscues.  Both teams like to get up and down the floor in a hurry, but this plays into MTSU's advantage. Toledo is allowing 84 ppg and the Raiders are on a 14-3 ATS run against teams that allow at least 77 ppg. Meanwhile, the Rockets are on a 2-10 ATS slide against teams that score at least 77 ppg.  MTSU won last year's meeting, 78-70.  We expect another win and cover in this meeting.  I'm laying the points with Middle Tennessee, my Beatdown on Tuesday.  Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer. (Be sure to check back throughout the day for possible additional CBB releases).