Purdue at Indiana 7:00 ET

Boilermakers (+) over Hoosiers- These two Indiana schools have a tense rivalry that won't be diminished because of the lack of student attendance. These clubs are very similar as they don't possess much firepower on offense but play some of the toughest defense in the nation. The Hoosiers allow just 66.6 ppg while staying neck and neck is Purdue who allows just 66.2 ppg. Purdue has struggled on the road going just 5-12-3 ATS in their last 20 road games but have won seven straight against the Hoosiers. Take PURDUE.

Miami at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (-) over Heat- These two just played and overtime game where the Sixers won 137-134 as an 8.5-point favorite. Philadelphia wins by 3-points in overtime and the line goes up...hum. Both teams are dealing with protocol issues as the Sixers are down four men but the line is now higher maybe because Ben Simmons in back although he was sub-par his first game back and 'we' expect more tonight. Miami has just eight player available and they will need them all. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Washington State at UCLA 5:00 ET

Bruins (-) over Cougars- This seems a bit odd that a pair of 9-2 teams meet from the same conference and one team is double-digit favorites. UCLA has won four straight and are off a sweep in Arizona defeating both desert teams and now face a Cougars squad that is playing just just their second true road game and are on the road for the third straight game as their loss to Stanford was played in Santa Cruz. Washington State is just 7-17-1 ATS in their last 25 road games while UCLA is 7-1-1 ATS in their last nine road games and the home team is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings. Take UCLA!

Stanford at Utah 5:00 ET

Utes (+) over Cardinal- These two Pac-12 clubs are struggling to find regular scheduled games and are moving in opposite directions. Stanford has won three straight and are 4-1 in conference play while Utah has lost four straight and is 1-4 in Pac-12 action blowing 10-point second half leads in their last two games against Colorado and Oregon (two pretty good clubs). The Utes have won five straight at home against the Cardinal and have swept all the Bay area schools at home since 2014-15 and the home team is 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Take UTAH!

Portland at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Trailblazers- These two met four days ago in Portland and the Trailblazers embarrassed the Kings 125-99 and it wasn't that close. The Blazers were taunting Sacramento and as professionals they are seeking a bit of revenge. The problem is the Kings always seem to have numerous injuries and they expect injured guard Buddy Hield to suit up tonight. Portland has one three straight including a 112-111 buzzer beating win over Toronto Monday and three in-a-row in enough for these guys. The Kings are 12-5-1 ATS in their last 18 games as underdogs. Take SACRAMENTO!

Chip's SEC Power Play Winner

Texas A&M at Mississippi State 9:00 ET

Aggies (+) over Bulldogs- Mississippi State has been good to 'us' as we are 3-0 ATS in their last four games and they are off a non-cover win at Vanderbilt after defeating Missouri at home. Meanwhile A&M is looking for the right chemistry after a 68-54 home loss to Tennessee. The Aggies worked hard on the boards and out-rebounded the Vols wiped the glass clean for a 31-23 advantage. They will have to do that and then some to get by the Bulldogs huge front line that outscored Vanderbilt 42-18 in the paint but are just 63% at Free Throw line. Miss St is favored but the dog is 6-2 ATS in the last eight meetings. Take TEXAS A&M!

Texas Tech at Texas 9:00 ET

Red Raiders (+) over Longhorns- I love this Texas team as Shaka Smart has finally turned out a product the alumni can be proud of being ranked No. 4 to start the week. Undefeated 4-0 in Big-12 action they managed to avoid an upset after defeating Kansas by 25-points taking down Iowa State and won at the buzzer at West Virginia. They have shown me plenty of character and against will face a stiff test in state rival Texas Tech who have won their last two and four of five. The Red Raiders had lost seven straight before their 91-64 win at Iowa State and they are ready to start a new trend. Take TEXAS TECH!

Chip's NBA Money Game Winner

Brooklyn at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Nets- Boy on boy, there has just got to be drama round these 'queens' as Kyrie ('the World is Flat) Irving still hasn't decided if his going to take his third straight season off. Kevin Durant took his mini 10-day vacation and is pleased with Irving's absence as he get to handle the ball more and can make more anonymous social media comment about his teammates. Hey, not to be out done the Knicks showed some life early on but keep tossing bricks from the floor as they are one of the worst shooting teams I have ever seen at this level. But, new coach Tom Thibodeau has the Knicks playing defense going 2-9 to the under with the last 11 meetings going under. Take NEW YORK!

Dallas at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Mavericks- Dallas has won their last four and are now over .500 (5-4) for the first time this season The Mavericks last game scheduled against New Orleans was postponed as the Dallas did not have the minimum of eight players cleared to play. But, they should have enough players tonight as Kristaps Porzingis is supposed to return to play. Although the Mavs have dominated the Hornets in Charlotte going 14-3 ATS in their last 17 visits but they are 1-6 ATS as favorites including 0-5 ATS on the road as favorites and the Hornets are 15-5-1 ATS as underdogs and 7-0 ATS as home dogs. Take CHARLOTTE!

Arkansas at LSU 7:00 ET

Razorbacks (+) over Tigers- Arkansas is one of the highest scoring teams in the country averaging 88.2 points a game and are coming off a 99-69 point win over Georgia rebounding from consecutive losses to Missouri and at Tennessee. LSU has won two straight with a win over Georgia as well, but the Tigers had to go overtime to win 94-92 at home but they off a 75-61 win at Mississippi. The Tigers are just 3-9 ATS is their last 12 games after a straight-up win while the Razorbacks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven against teams with winning records and the road team is 6-2 ATS in the last eight meetings. Take ARKANSAS!

N.C. State at Florida State 6:30 ET

Wolfpack (+) over Seminoles- Both these club play defense first but Florida State is considered more talented and more athletic (ha yeah code for not smart players). The Seminoles field goal defense has held opponents under 70 points four times but they haven't played in 16 days and have missed numerous practices. N.C. State plays pressure defense that ranks 7th in steals (9.8) as they force 18.6 turnovers per game. Wolfpack 0-2 on the road but break through her as road team is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take NC STATE!

Syracuse at North Carolina 9:00 ET

Orange (+) over Tar Heels- This game has been scheduled today because both the Tar Heels and Orange had games cancelled against Clemson this week as here we are. Syracuse under Jim Boeheim's reign have always been a defense first team and they are still playing that way as they contain their foes shooting percentages at 39% from the field and just 30% from beyond the arc. North Carolina is not the dominate team that we are used to seeing as they have had six games decided by six points or less as they struggle to find offensive chemistry. The Heels rank #263 in offense with poor shooting from the floor (41%) but rebound well averaging 41.7 rebounds. Still, it's defense and the Orange. Take SYRACUSE!

L.A. Lakers at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Lakers- Two huge variables make this a difficult side to settle on one good the other not so good. The first is of course is LeBron James who is looking to guide Los Angeles to back-to-back championships. The other is Houston's James Harden who knows how to score points but not win games is a factor is he wants to 'play.' These two met Sunday at the Toyota Center and the Lakers won easy 120-102 as the Rockets shot poorly and didn't protect the ball committing 21 turnovers. LA is just 3-8 after a straight-up win but after that, Lakers get cocky and Rockets get back. Take HOUSTON!

Kansas at Oklahoma State 8:00 ET

Cowboys (+) over Jayhawks- Kansas may have the matchup they want as coach Bill Self prefers to play an 'inside' game as their 'big man' David McCormack is expected to clean the boards and managed to score 37 points in the past two games including scoring the game winner against Oklahoma Saturday. The Cowboys play tough defense allowing opponents just 39% FG shooting although undersized and ranking No. 222 in defensive rebounding. The Jayhawks are tough on the road going 9-2 ATS as favorites but State is 4-1 ATS as underdogs and the home team is 5-1 ATS in their last six home games. Take OKLAHOMA STATE!

Miami at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (-) over Heat- This has got to be the COVID game of the year with both clubs struggling to provide the minimum of eight available players. Miami has their last game cancelled against Boston as the Heat had eight players on the protocol list. Philadelphia has had their own virus issues and have dropped three straight after starting the season 7-1. The Sixers were beaten in Atlanta last night as they were missing five players of their own but they expect the return of en Simmons tonight. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Chip's Big Ten Major Shocker Winner

Wisconsin at Michigan 7:00 ET

Badgers (+) over Wolverines- This should be one of the better played games of the day as the Big Ten matchup pits No. 7 Michigan (10-0, 5-0) against No. 9 Wisconsin (10-2, 4-1). This basketball season the Big Ten is by far the strongest conference in the country and these two have contrasting style as the Wolverines are looking to out gun and out score you while the Badgers use their defense to keep opponents at 61.5 ppg and holding them to 38.9% shooting. Take the points...WISCONSIN!

Chip's SEC Power Play Winner

Mississippi at Florida 7:00 ET

Rebels (+) over Gators- After quick starts these two clubs are backsliding as Florida has dropped their last two assuring they have dropped from the ranking and Mississippi has lost three of four after starting the season 4-0. This seems like a very short 'number' as the Rebels have struggled as road dogs going 0-5 ATS against teams with winning records but they bounce back after double-digit losses to go 20-6 ATS next time out. The Gators always a decent team is usually favorite but don't get there as they are 10-21 ATS in their last 31 home games. Take MISSISSIPPI!

Chip's ACC Vegas Hotline Winner

Duke at Virginia Tech 7:00 ET

Hokies (+) over Blue Devils- A lot of things are changing in the ACC and the dominating play of North Carolina and Duke appear to be in the rear view mirror. Although they have played and won four more games than No. 19 Duke the Hokies are ranked No. 20 below the Blue Devils as old reps remain with the perennial powers. Virginia Tech is a strong rebounding team bullying Notre Dame on the boards last time out gaining a 41-24 rebounding advantage. Devils are just 1-6 ATS overall and 1-6 ATS as road favorites while Tech is 5-1 ATS in their last six games and the home team is 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings. Take VIRGINIA TECH!

Toronto at Portland 10:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Trailblazers- It's kinda funny with the Raptors having their road record listed at 1-5 when in reality ALL their games are road games as the 'great White North' has banned their play. Toronto has a beaten favorite (-3) last night at Golden State dropping a 106-105 decision while Portland has won their last two and are 5-12-1 ATS after a win of 10-points or more and 1-5 ATS in their last six home games. The Raptors are 7-3 ATS in last 10 as roads underdogs. Take TORONTO!

Indiana at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Pacers- The Kings have dropped five of their past six games and their main issue is the lack of intensity on defense as they ranked 28th surrendering 121 ppg and last 30th in defensive FG's as opponents shoot 49.6%. Indiana takes to the road after playing six of seven at home and they are 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 road games when favored and 9-3 after a SU loss. Sacramento is 0-5 ATS in their five games overall and are looking to rebound from consecutive 20-point ATS losses. Take the KINGS!

Phoenix at Washington 7:05 ET

Wizards (+) over Suns- A year ago these two clubs were both outsiders trying to reach the playoffs. Both teams made changes in the off-season and they both have different looks and results. Phoenix has added Chris Paul and is off to a 7-3 start including 4-2 AU on the road. The Suns have improved to the point where they are favored on the road while the Wizards with the addition of the most 'overrated' player in NBA history Russell Westbrook now hooked up with scorer Bradley Beal are last in defense allowing 123 ppg. Although Phoenix is 12-2 ATS at Washington this is the first time that they have been favored here. Take WASHINGTON!

Connecticut at DePaul 6:00 ET

Blue Demons (+) over Huskies- Connecticut is 6-1 under Dan Hurley's leadership with their only blemish a 76-74 OT loss to Top-10 ranked Creighton and have already beaten DePaul 82-61 on Dec. 30 for their ninth straight series victory. The Blue Demons who have struggled in the Big East over the years and are 0-3 in conference play also losing to Providence in double-OT and Seton Hall. 'We are a work in progress' according to coach Dave Leitao as the Demons get ready for just their fifth game of the season. Take DEPAUL!

Colorado at Utah 6:00 ET

Utes (+) over Buffaloes- Colorado who is off a 79-72 home win over Oregon were in the middle of a four-game home stand but instead are on the road in Salt Lake City tonight. Utah on the other hand is also off a home game against the Ducks but with different results as they fell 79-73 and have lost three straight in Pac-12 play. The Buffaloes are 6-1 ATS in their last games seven as favorites but it is a different story when on the road where as favorites as they are 6-16 ATS in that role and 11-40-1 ATS in their last 52 road games overall. Take UTAH!

Toronto at Golden State 8:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Warriors- Golden State has picked up the tempo and are off a great come-from-behind win over the LA Clippers, trailing by 20-points in the second half Curry goes on a run and the win outright 115-105 going away. The Raptors finally put and end to a slide that saw them dropped 7-of-8 ATS as they ran away from the Kings in Sacramento 144-123. Toronto has been tough on the road against winning teams and are 21-10 ATS in that role. Take TORONTO!

Maryland at Illinois 8:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Illini- The Big Ten has more than one good 'big man' in the conference and Illinois' 7-foot center Kofi Cockburn is making his presence felt. Leading the No. 12 Illini they are now 5-1 in Big Ten play and after trailing by 15 points at the half they outscored Northwestern 53-13 in the second half. Maryland has lost three straight and the last one to Iowa and their big man Garza who dominated the Terps. Let's hope that they learned something. Underdog 5-0 ATS last five meetings and hopefully get there again...take MARYLAND!

Cincinnati at Wichita State 4:30 ET

Bearcats (+) over Shockers- The Bearcats who have been the 'kiss-of-death' to backers broke through with an outright win over SMU for 'us' last time out and from what I am hearing they actually like what it feels like to be a winner. So, I am giving them another opportunity to prove their worth against not-so talented group of Shockers. Hey how about this the underdog is 4-0 ATS in their season and the road team is 7-0 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take CINCINNATI!

Chicago at L. A. Clippers 4:00 ET

Clippers (-) over Bulls- Hey, make the Bulls aren't all that bad at least by point-spread standards as they have won four straight and seven of their last eight against the number. But, tonight they will pay for the LA's sins, as the Clippers rebound from blowing a 20-point second half lead to Golden State Friday losing 115-105. Tonight they play a full 48 minutes with or without Leonard as the Clippers are 38-14 ATS after straight-up loss. Take LA CLIPPERS!

Utah at Detroit 3:00 ET

Pistons (+) over Jazz- Utah has been a bit inconsistent to date after dropping two straight in Gotham City to the Knicks and Nets then they rebounded with an impressive 131-118 win at Milwaukee when the set a franchise record 25 3-pointers in 53 attempts. Detroit has shown some life after a terrible start losing their first four and seven of eight before posting a 110-105 OT win over Phoenix Friday night. The Jazz have won the last eight meetings but are just 2-7 ATS as road favorites and 6-23-2 ATS in their last 31 overall as favorites. Pistons a 'live' home dog going 5-1 ATS in last six. Take DETROIT!

Minnesota at Iowa 2:30 ET

Golden Gophers (+) over Hawkeyes- Well, I couldn't have positioned it any better myself, but let see if it plays out correctly. Hawkeyes flying high at home winning all eight games as hosts and looking for revenge for their loss on Christmas Day at Minnesota 102-95 in overtime. Losing at Michigan 82-57 last time out brings the Gophers road road to 0-4 SU and ATS. Not only is Iowa 21-4-1 ATS in their last 27 home games the home team is 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings. Tough call but it's MINNESOTA!

Denver at Philadelphia 3:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over 76ers- Okay either this is the biggest 'gift' of the day (believe me the bookies don't like giving away anything) as the 3-5 Denver Nuggets are favored at 7-2 Philadelphia and I smell a rat. The 76ers are 5-0 straight up at home and here they are getting points from a sub .500 club. It looks like Embiid will get to play point guard as he wishes as three Sixers' guards are out because of virus and other crap. It's just DENVER!

Baylor at T.C. U. 3:00 ET

Horned Frogs (+) over Bears- No. 2 Baylor is 10-0 and not really been tested winning every game by at least 11 points with an average margin of victory of 28.8 per game. The one contest that would have given some perspective against Gonzaga was cancelled. TCU is off a 30-point beat down by Kansas but have given the Bears fits winning four of the past six meetings the last three years outright. Prior to that blowout loss to the Jayhawks the Frogs had won five in-a-row and they are 7-3 ATS following a Su loss. The Bears are tough everywhere and are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 road games. Still, this spot here today it's the Horned frogs...Take T.C.U.!

Seton Hall at DePaul 2:00 ET

Blue Demons over Pirates- I usually like to take teams to bounce back from blowout losses but when a team losses the way Seton Hall lost to Creighton at no time showing any resistance. Even coach Kevin Willard said that they have got to regroup as he deals with the 'dog' in his Pirates. Seton Hall is just 7-16 ATS when playing teams with a losing record and the underdog in this series in 5-1 ATS last six meetings. Take DEPAUL!

Mississippi State at Vanderbilt 1:00 ET

Commodores (+) over Bulldogs- Mississippi State is coming off a great come-from-behind win over No. 13 Missouri 78-63 trailing by 16 at one point while Vanderbilt trailed Florida and Kentucky and never recovered and stand 0-2 in SEC play. The only positive trend that I can find for the 'Doors is that the underdog is 9-4-3 ATS in the last 16 meetings and that they are 4-2 SU at home. Bad spot for Bulldogs who may get caught napping. Take VANDERBILT!

Ohio State at Rutgers 12:00 ET

Buckeyes (+) over Scarlet Knights- Rutgers jumped out with a pair of Big Ten wins to start conference play but have dropped 3-of-4 since including their last two to Iowa and Michigan State. Ohio State is 2-3 in conference action also losing last time out at Minnesota making it three Big Ten road losses and two home wins. The favorite in this series is 5-1 ATS and the home team is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings. But hey...this is why we call it handicapping...take BUCKEYES!

Alabama at Auburn 12:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Crimson Tide- From top to bottom that's the way this rivalry seems to be headed as the SEC's only undefeated basketball (3-0) team Alabama (hard that before) travels to play the conference's only winless team (0-3) that's Auburn. The Tide have won four straight including a win 15-point win over Florida and a win at Tennessee. The number don't favor the Tigers but Bruce Pearl should have them ready for this one. Take AUBURN!

Toronto at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Raptors (-) over Kings- Toronto who won the NBA championship two seasons ago is 1-6 SU this year and 0-4 SU and ATS on the road. 0-4 ATS on the road and yet they are favored here at Sacramento where the Kings are 3-1 SU. This doesn't make any kind of sense what-so-ever although the Kings De'Aaron Fox strained his right hamstring last time out and mostly likely will be sidelined tonight. The Raptors are 4-1-1 ATS in the last six meetings and the Kings 1-6 ATS after scoring over 125 points the pervious game. Take TORONTO!

Dayton at Davidson 9:00 ET

Wildcats (-) over Flyers- As the song goes 'what a difference a day makes...', it supposed to to be '24 little hours.' But, what I am seeing is two different teams one season to the next as Dayton doesn't measure up to last year's version. The Flyers were just defeated by Fordham 55-54 in a game where they were 12-point favorites and they trailed the entire game. Now they show up as underdogs on the road where they are 4-11 ATS in their last 15. The Wildcats are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 as home underdogs. Take DAVIDSON!

Utah at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Bucks- Utah has played five road games and surprisingly they are 3-2 SU on the road while Milwaukee is 4-0 SU at home and 3-1 ATS. This is the fourth straight road game for the Jazz who opened this trip with a win at San Antonio but were crushed in their last two at Brooklyn and New York. Despite those pair of losses Utah is 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games as underdogs. The Bucks who owned the best record in the league the past two seasons is just 1-5-1 ATS after a SU win. The Jazz have dominated the series between these two going 27-8 ATS in the last 35 meetings. Take UTAH!

Washington at Boston 7:30 ET

Wizards (+) over Celtics- Washington has two of the most exciting guards in the NBA but there is one proverb that stands true through time when playing this game and it is 'they only play with one ball.' Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal can virtually score at will but have just two wins in eight games. Boston at 6-3 is respectable as they try and find the proper mix after some major personnel changes. The Wizards have won the last two meetings and are 4-0 ATS on the road this season. The inconsistent Celtics are 2-7 ATS after an ATS win and 1-4 ATS as favorites. Take WASHINGTON!

Purdue at Michigan State 7:00 ET

Boilermakers (+) over Spartans- Boilermakers have covered but once in their last nine games going 1-6-2 ATS and have dropped their last two straight-up. Michigan State is bouncing back from a 3-game slide with a pair of wins over Nebraska and No. 13 Rutgers but had lost seven straight to the 'number' before the win over the Scarlet Knights. Purdue has won the past two meetings and are 5-1-1 ATS in the last seven meetings. Take the BOILERMAKERS!

Minnesota at Portland 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (-) over Timberwolves- Portland has dropped two straight and 3-of-4 with their lone win a beating over the Warriors 123-98 and in general are not playing so great going 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games overall. Now, Minnesota...there's a team that just can't dig a hole deep enough losing their last five by an average 24 points but, they are coming off a 'cover' 123-116 at Denver. I really don't care for the Blazers as a team, so for me to back anyone that has Carmelo Anthony on their roster is a team to 'FADE.' But just look at the number, they have no business being a double-digit favorite against anyone. This is a chance for them to rout somebody and they will. Take PORTLAND!

U.S.C. at Arizona 9:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Wildcats- This could play out as one of the better Pac -12 match-ups as 9-1 unranked Arizona winners of four straight including a pair of wins over the Washington schools hosts 6-2 USC off a smothering win over Utah. The Trojans who have the size to get the ball off the rim held the Utes to 27.9% shooting and just 46 points. Arizona also makes claim to the ball off the boards as they possess a plus-11.4 edge in rebounds. USC is 7-1 ATS in their last eight games as road underdogs and 17-7 ATS against teams with a winning record while Arizona is 2-6 ATS against teams with a winning record. Take SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!

Cincinnati at S.M.U. 7:00 ET

Bearcats (+) over Mustangs- I hope that I not getting caught in the 'switches' here as was a supporter of the Mustangs as they entered their showdown against Houston on Sunday, as SMU and my Power Play release went down the tubes. So, here I am looking to play one of the absolute 'worst' cover teams in NCAA sports be it basketball or football. Cincinnati (2-6) is a dreadful 1-7 ATS on the season and this isn't anything new as they are 15-37 ATS in their last 52 games overall including 3-14 ATS as road underdogs. Gosh that is terrible but believe it or not the Bearcats have won the last seven meetings straight-up. Take CINCINNATI!

Iowa at Maryland 7:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Hawkeyes- Iowa as most are aware have one of the best 'big men' in the country in Luke Garza but many are not aware of the fact that they are a great 3-point shooting team that helps open the inside. The Hawkeyes have rebounded from their OT loss at Minnesota and are off a 77-75 win at No. 14 Rutgers. Maryland has dropped two straight after an upset win at Wisconsin and will try and get it done with defense as they allow 66.6 ppg while Iowa scores at a 92.7 clip. The trends are all one-sided and if I wrote them out it might steer me away from who I believe is the winner. Take MARYLAND!

Toronto at Phoenix 9:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Suns- Boy, this looks easy, too easy. Toronto at 1-5 is off to their worst start is 14 seasons and the fact that they are forced to call Tampa, Fl home doesn't help. Meanwhile, Phoenix is 5-2 and off to their best start in a decade. Despite their woes the Raptors are 9-4 ATS as underdogs and 13-6 ATS after a loss of 10-points or more. Phoenix has risen and the Suns are hot going 15-3 ATS in their last 18 overall remember they closed out the 'Bubble' 8-0 SU and ATS! The trends and numbers support the home team here as the Suns are 6-1 ATS against the Raptors as hosts. Sill, this time around it's TORONTO!

Minnesota at Michigan 8:30 ET

Golden Gophers (+) over Wolverines- There are only three teams that remain undefeated from major conferences No. 10 Michigan is one while No. 1 Gonzaga and No. 2 Baylor is the other. How are there seven teams ranked between the No. 2 and No. 10. Minnesota is 10-2 and ranked No. 16 and are 0-2 in road games going 0-2 ATS at Wisconsin and Illinois. But, the road team is 12-5 ATS in the last 17 meetings tough call with the coaches both on top of their game. Take MINNESOTA!

St. John's at Xavier 8:00 ET

Red Storm (+) over Musketeers- St. John's jumped back into the win column after three straight Big East losses by beating Georgetown 94-83 at home ending a 0-4 ATS slide. Xavier got of the mark quick with an 8-0 start but have been stopped at Creighton and at home a week ago against Seton Hall. There is one thing both these clubs do and that is score points as the Red Storm put up 83 points a game and the Musketeers fire-up 80.2 ppg with X's defense about 10-points better per game. St. John's is the leading scoring team in the Big East and they play a pressure defense that forces mistakes of while the Musketeers are prone. Take RED STORM!

Houston at Indiana 7:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Pacers- Here comes Houston and the NBA's 3-time leading scorer James Harden off his worst game of the season, his first game under 30-points this year. Indiana is off a very fortunate to win 118-116 OT at New Orleans where they trailed by 9-points with 17 seconds to go and 6-points with 6 seconds left and tied the game at the buzzer. The Rockets have two home wins both over Sacramento and are off a home loss to the Mavericks 113-100 but are 5-1 ATS against the Pacers in the past six meetings. Take HOUSTON!

Washington at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Wizards (+) over 76ers- Can Doc Rivers really be the difference in Philadelphia...as the 76ers who have been the biggest underachievers in the NBA the past three seasons currently have the best record (6-1) in the league. 'We' caught 'on' the Sixers three times during their four game SU and ATS streak but now it's about to turn. Washington started in horrid fashion losing their first five games including opening night to Philadelphia 113-107. The Wizards have won their last two as Westbrook and Beal are starting to mesh. Although they haven't fared well in Philly the Wiz are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. Take WASHINGTON!

Virginia Tech at Louisville 6:30 ET

Hokies (+) over Cardinals- No. 19 Virginia Tech (8-1) has played seven games at home and two on neutral sights which makes this their first true road game of the season. But, how much of an 'actual' road game can this be if there are no spectators, no fans there to intimate their opponents and to harass the refs. Still, the Hokies are 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games and are 7-17 ATS in their last 24 overall. The Hokies had their game with Virginia postponed so it has been a week since their 80-78 win over Miami their fourth straight. No. 25 Louisville has won three straight after suffering pounding at Wisconsin 85-48 their sole loss and are 6-2-1 ATS at home. Take VIRGINIA TECH!

Missouri at Mississippi State 9:00 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Tigers- No. 13 Missouri is the surprise of the SEC (aside from Kentucky being 2-6) and are 7-1 and coming off a huge win at Arkansas. That makes them but 1-1 in conference play falling to Tennessee 73-53. Mississippi State was good to 'us' at Georgia winning 83-73 outright as a 3-point dog a week ago but fell to Kentucky in overtime at home Saturday 78-73. The Tigers haven measured up to the competition on the road going 3-8 ATS in their last 11 against teams with winning records while the Bulldogs are 10-4 ATS after a SU loss. Take MISSISSIPPI STATE!

North Carolina at Miami-Fl 8:00 ET

Hurricanes (+) over Tar Heels- UNC is 1-6 ATS in their last seven and are 0-3 SU on the road and yet they are favored here. Coach Roy Williams has six freshman in his rotation with four of them getting the bulk of playing time and their inexperience has been evident. Miami who also use on pair of freshman are 4-4 and have lost a pair if games on final shot buzzer beaters. The Tar Heels have dropped in quality play as they are 5-14-1 ATS in their last 20 games following a SU win and just 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 as favorites on the road, while the Hurricanes are 4-1 ATS in their last five as home underdogs. Take MIAMI!

Utah at Brooklyn 7:30 ET

Jazz (+) over Nets- So Kevin Durant is down for seven days minimum and the Nets have been disappointing after a quick 2-0 start and are 1-4 SU and lost five straight to the number. It looks like Brooklyn is so cocky about their ability to score with all their firepower they don't feel the need to play defense as they have allowed 120 ppg in their last five. Utah has put together a pair of wins for the first time this season and they have always gotten the best of the Nets. Utah has won the past four meetings and 7-of-8. The Jazz are also 9-2-1 ATS as road underdogs and are 5-1 ATS in their last six at Brooklyn and the Nets are 1-4 ATS against teams with winning records. And yet now without Durant the Nets will play defense and reverse this trend. Take BROOKLYN

Sacramento at Golden State 10:00 ET

Warriors (+) over Kings- How Golden State is at .500 is a bit of a shock after the way they started the season with losses by 26 to Brooklyn and 39 points to Milwaukee. But since then they have won 3-of-4 as Stephen Curry took it upon himself to get aggressive scoring a career high 62 points against Portland Sunday night and Draymond Green has returned to the lineup. One thing about great shooters is that when they are hot they stay 'on' as they find their groove. The Kings just dropped a pair of games at Houston and they finish their three game road trip tonight. Sacramento has played well is 7-0 ATS in their last seven trips to Golden State but all as underdogs. They are also 11-4 ATS after a SU loss but just 1-6 ATS as road favorites and 7-15 ATS as favorites overall. Take the WARRIORS!

Indiana at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Pelicans- Both clubs are moving in opposite directions as New Orleans has won two-in-a-row for the first time this season and stand at 4-2. Indiana is also 4-2 but they opened the year with three straight wins and have now dropped 2-of-3 all at home. This is just the Pacers second away game with the only other road game a 21-point win at Chicago. Somehow the Pelicans are 8-1 ATS in the last nine meetings and that bother me a bit but, they were receiving a bushel of points then whereas they are not favored as they are 3-7 ATS as home favorites. Indy is 8-3 ATS after a SU loss and will rebound here. Take INDIANA!

New York at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Hawks- Break-up the Knicks! New York has won 3-of-4 and two of three which came on the road on this current four game trip. Atlanta's free wheeling style opened the season with three straight wins and 4-of-5 also incurred their defeat at the hands of Cleveland Saturday as they committed 20 turnovers. The Knicks have a completely new outlook under Tom Thibodeau and attitude and the difference is striking. NYK is 3-0-1 ATS in their last four trips to Atlanta while the Hawks are 0-4-1 ATS in their last five games as home favorites. Take NEW YORK!

Portland at Golden State 8:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Trailblazers- This is the second of the two-game home series between these two as the Trailblazers took out the Warriors 123-98 Friday night. In that game Portland turn the tide by made 20 3-point shots while the Warriors made only seven. Golden State at times looks like the worst the in the NBA as all of their three losses have come by double-digits losing by 26, 39 and 25 points as their defense ranks No. 30 (Dead last). Although State is 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games they are 24-11 ATS against the Blazers at home. Take GOLDEN STATE!

Dallas at Chicago 8:00 ET

Bulls (+) over Mavericks- Chicago returns home after a three game road trip where they won a pair at Washington before getting blown out at Milwaukee 126-96. Dallas just finish a two-game home stand rebounding from a loss to Charlotte with a win over Miami on Friday and still are waiting for the return of Kristaps Porzingis averages 20 points and nearly 10 rebounds a game. Two trends of note are that the Mavericks are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 road games and 8-21-2 ATS after a SU win. Chicago is 4-1 ATS after a SU loss but are just 12-30 ATS in their last 42 home games as underdogs. So 'we' will tread lightly but have...CHICAGO!

Denver at Minnesota 7:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Timberwolves- Both of these clubs are struggling right now as Minnesota opened the season with a pair of wins but have now dropped three straight while the Nuggets have lost 4-of-5. The Timberwolves will be without start center Karl-Anthony Towns who will miss his fourth straight game and his absence leaves a huge void that the Wolves can't fill. Minnesota's losses have been by an average of 26.7 points. Take DENVER

Houston at S.M.U. 7:00 ET
Mustangs (+) over Cougars- This contest should be battle between two clubs could an epic AAC battle as No. 5 Houston off their first loss of the season to Tulsa 65-64 and are playing their third straight on the road. Undefeated SMU (6-0) is 4-0 SU at home going 3-1 ATS and has a well balanced squad that has five players averaging double-digits and they are shooting 38.2% from 3-point range. The Cougars are just 1-7 ATS in their last eight road games as favorites while the Mustangs are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 home games. Take SMU!

Cleveland at Atlanta 7:30 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Hawks- The Hawks are flying high and if Trae Young continues to score at this rate many will be hard pressed to match Atlanta's offensive output. They are No.1 in scoring at 129 ppg and are 4-1 coming off a huge 114-96 win at Brooklyn and return home for this game tonight. Cleveland jumped out 2-0 on the season and have dropped their last two including a 119-99 loss to Indiana two nights ago. The Cavaliers will be without Kevin Love and often that is a plus as they have started playing more competitive basketball going 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games. Atlanta as favorites haven't done all that well going 1-3-1 ATS in their last five and they are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 on zero days rest. Take CLEVELAND!

New York at Indiana 7:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Pacers- These two met in their season opener 10 days ago a 119-99 home win for the Pacers who are playing hosts to the Knicks once again. New York had their mini winning streak stopped New Year's Eve by Toronto as they shot a franchise low 8% from beyond the arc going 3-for-36. The Knicks have four guards sidelined with injuries but altogether they don't equal the single player that Indiana had to shelve in T.J. Warren who led the team in scoring last season. New Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau has his squad playing defense first and they 5th in total points allowed and 3rd in defensive FG percentage. Indiana is 12-5 ATS as host against New York and 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 as favorites. But, things change...take NEW YORK!

Charlotte at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (-) over Hornets- Charlotte is off a home loss last night as crippled Memphis came to town and netted the Hornets to the tune of 108-93. Although they closed the 2020 season along with this season are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games as underdogs and 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games overall. I have more they are 9-3 ATS in the second of back-to-backs. Philadelphia who seem to be more focused under Doc Rivers are 7-2 ZATS in their last nine as home favorites and 14-6 Ats in their last 20 home games overall and they are also 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings Take the SIXERS!

LSU at Florida 2:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Gators- Both clubs are coming off dominate performances as Florida was never headed at Vanderbilt winning 91-72 while the Tigers manhandled Texas A&M 77-54. I must give the gators credit as they are 4-1 and have played four of their first five games away from home only hosting Stetson winning 86-40 as 24-point favorites. LSU (6-1) unlike the Gators have played just one true road game at St. Louis receiving their only defeat 85-81 as the Billikens made 44-of-70 shots.Neither team has any impressive trends to speak of other than the road team is 5-1-1 in the last seven meetings. Take LSU!

Creighton at Providence 12:00 ET

Friars (+) over Bluejays- No. 11 Creighton extended their Christmas holiday and chose not to play Georgetown on Wednesday and open the New Year with a game in Providence with the Friars are 4-0 SU this season. The Bluejays have won their last three while Providence has won 5-of-6 including their last two outings at home over DePaul and Butler. The Friars lead the series 16-11 including a 9-3 mark at home and they are 5-2 ATS at home versus teams with winning records. Take PROVIDENCE

Texas at Kansas 12:00 ET

Longhorns (+) over Jayhawks- This game is simple to figure out. If the Longhorns veteran trio of guards hit their 3-point shots it will negate the Kansas size advantage. The Jayhawks are 8-0 since their opening 102-90 loss to No. 1 Gonzaga while Texas only loss came to Villanova 68-64. The visitors are 501 ATS in their last six on the road and the road team is 11-2 ATS in the last 13 meetings. Take TEXAS!

Portland at Golden State 10:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Trailblazers- Golden State started the season with blowout losses to Brooklyn and Milwaukee but have responded with wins at Chicago and Detroit. This is their home opener and it will be a back-to-back home series against the Trailblazers as they meet again on Sunday. The turnaround was strictly because he just took over the last two times out scoring 67 points with 10 three-pointers. Golden State will be aided by the return of two players for the Warriors Draymond Green returns and for Portland Carmelo Anthony returns and that can only help any opponent. Portland is 10-24 ATS in their last 34 trips to Golden State. Take the WARRIORS!

L.A. Clippers at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Clippers- I wonder about these 4-1 LA Clippers because in their loss to Dallas they scored just 27 points in the entire first half. Now, I will give you that Leonard was not in the lineup, but they have played and won countless times while he's getting his nails clipped. After opening with a win at Portland the Jazz have failed to cover three straight and squeezed out their lone will against the striped bare Oklahoma City Thunder. Going back to last season the Jazz opening win was the only ATS win in their last nine games overall. Still, it's time...take UTAH!

L.A. Lakers at San Antonio 7:30 ET

Spurs (+) over Lakers- Los Angeles had their way with the Spurs two nights ago as LeBron celebrated his birthday in a big way as the Lakers had their best shooting night of the short season. That of course was the game that 'Popovich' helped the NBA make a political statement by arranging the first female to coach in the NBA to get her opportunity. Wow, what a history making league! So impressive was Becky Hammon's performance (they lost 121-107) that the Spurs will have another shot at the Lakers. They get the money tonight...take SAN ANTONIO!

Colorado at USC 10:00 ET

Buffaloes (+) over Trojans- Now is a tricky one have I believe that 'we' win here with the Buffaloes we will make plenty of money on and against them the rest of the way. Colorado went to Arizona a place where that haven't won since entering the Pac-12 in 2011 and Arizona at home was a 2-point favorite. That 'price' tells me the bookmakers have a bit of respect for the Buffs. USC just had a 20-day break and posted an 86-63 win over Santa Clara on Tuesday and now are back on the court within 48 hours.Considering that Colorado is 13-40 ATS in their last 53 road games is not reflected in the line. Take COLORADO!

Michigan at Maryland 7:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Wolverines- So here comes No. 16 ranked and undefeated Michigan (7-0) into College Park and the Terrapins return home after upsetting ranked Wisconsin in Madison. The Wolverines just had an easy time as Nebraska where they were never threatened winning 80-69 as a 7.5-point favorite. That was Michigan's first game since Dec. 13 and in their last meeting in the final game last season the Big Ten co-champs who closed the season with a 83-70 win over the visiting Wolverines. Take MARYLAND!

New York at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (-) over Knicks- Okay, enough le'ts get back to reality! Having 'had' the Knicks both games I am quite comfortable looking to pay against them here. Toronto who isn't sure where home is hasn't won a game (0-3) and they haven't covered' either. Now, the Raptors who have defeated New York eight straight times are a healthy 9-point favorite. If ever there was a spot to use a cliché this is 'what the doctor ordered' as Toronto needs a fix in the worst way. Last time out the blew a 14-point second half lead to the 76ers and they have already claimed that this is a 'must win' and I agree. Take TORONTO!

Minnesota at Wisconsin 4:30 ET

Badgers (-) over Golden Gophers- No. 21 Minnesota just reeled off three straight home wins and covers starting with St. Louis, Iowa and then Michigan State as Rich Pitino has his squad 9-0 SU at home. Meanwhile, Wisconsin just had their five game winning streak halted by Maryland as a beaten 10-point favorite on Monday. The Golden Gophers have play on the road once and lost at Illinois by 27 points. I don't need a margin that big but double-digits will do! Take WISCONSIN!

Portland at L.A. Clippers 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Clippers- The Clippers responded to their worst loss (123-74) in franchise history like true professionals rebounding against the lowly Timberwolves with a convincing 124-101 win. Kawhi Leonard of course was missing from both contests and most likely will sit out once again as he's still no sure as to when his eight stitches will be removed from his mouth. Portland of course did their thing last time out against the Lakers who they have a mastery over the NBA Champs. The Blazers also have an edge on the Clippers going 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings and are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six as underdogs while LA is 1-4 ATS in their last five as favorites. Take PORTLAND!

Charlotte at Dallas 8:30 ET

Hornets (+) over Mavericks- Hey Dallas, what's that all about...I mean a 50-point lead over the Clippers their last time out after starting the season 0-2. Think about this, the biggest halftime lead in NBA history 77-27 and it was over the Clippers. The Mavericks also had good news as Kristaps Porzingis had a full day of practice and should ready soon but not tonight. Charlotte posted their first win of the season over Brooklyn as an 11-point underdog on Sunday as 'our' Megabucks winner as Gordon Hayward blends in with his new mates as he works with Luca Doncic. Hornets are 8-0-1 ATS in their last nine games as underdogs and 4-1 ATS in their last five trips to Dallas. Take CHARLOTTE!

L.A. Lakers at San Antonio 8:30 ET

Spurs (+) over Lakers- Los Angeles open the season with four games at home won the middle two while dropping their opener to the Clippers and Monday to Portland. They take to the road for the first time and are 1-3-1 ATS in their last away games. Lebron has been as good as ever and the Lakers still haven't settled in or found their chemistry, with Davis and others in-and-out things may take a bit of time. But, we are still talking about LeBron James who can and is the difference ANY time he decides. San Antonio broke out with a pair of wins but were totally out of whack last time out as they didn't box out allowing 13 offensive rebounds, committed 15 turnovers and made only eight free throws. Spurs 18-8 ATS in last 26 as home underdogs. Take SAN ANTONIO!

North Carolina at Georgia Tech 8:00 ET

Yellow Jackets (+) over Tar Heels- North Carolina at 5-3 has been dropped from the rankings and quite deservedly so. I don't believe this is one of the Tar Heels better team and coach Williams know it. Both clubs have wins over Kentucky (heck, if you scheduled Kentucky you win) but Carolina has trailed by double-digits in six games three of which they lost. Carolina has covered just one spread in their last six games while the Yellow Jackets are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven they bound back after an ATS loss and are 20-7 ATS. Take GEORGIA TECH!

Seton Hall at Xavier 7:00 ET

Pirates (+) over Musketeers- Xavier opened with eight straight wins and busted into the rank9ngs at No. 22 and then promptly lost to another ranked team Creighton 66-61. They host Seton Hall who is a disappointing 6-5 rebounding from a 1-3 start and are 3-1 in Big East action. The Musketeers have had seven days to stew about their first loss and after that much time doubt starts to creep into your thoughts. The Pirates are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 road games and building confidence they are 24-11 ATS last 35 after a SU win. Add that the road team and underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings. Take SETON HALL!

Mississippi State at Georgia 7:00 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Bulldogs- So big bad Georgia is undefeated (7-0) but was so lightly regarded by the oddsmakers that two games ago against a 2-5 Cincinnati team they were a 2-point underdog at home. Miss State is 4-0 at home and 0-3 on the road and all three were at neutral sites against better competition. This is the start of a 'new' season as it is the SEC opener for both and it takes on that little something extra. Of any trends of significance Georgia holds the edge but the oddsmaker say different. Take MISSISSIPPI STATE!

New Orleans at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Suns- good start for both these clubs as neither has been to the playoffs in awhile. Phoenix last played in the post season 11 years ago and for New Orleans it's been three years. Both squads are looking for their young talented superstars to lead them to the promise land and they just might do it as Zion Williamson when healthy is unstoppable and few can keep up with the Suns Devin Booker. The Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games while Phoenix is 7-0 ATS in their last seven home games. New Orleans is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings and 6-1 ATS in the last seven in Phoenix. Take the PELICANS!

Boston at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Celtics- Anytime I hear 'it's just another game' or 'no need to panic' I think that quote came from is a loser. With the Celtics at 1-2 there is no need to panic, so why mention it! The Pacers are 3-0 and with a healthy Victor Oladipo returning to form Indiana is looking to rise to the next tier. Boston has had some changes to their roster and the biggest hole to fill was created by the departure of Gordon Hayward. After defeating Milwaukee 122-121 opening night the Celtics were blown out by the Nets and lost 108-107 against Indiana Sunday as a 2.5-point favorite and tonight they opened -1, it won't matter. This is the second of back-to-back games scheduled with the same team hosting the ' series' and the Pacers are looking for the sweep. Take INDIANA!

New York at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Knicks (+) over Cavaliers- Break-up the Cavs, no hey break-up the Knicks! All of a sudden these two dog franchises have show life and have actually won some games. Cleveland is 3-0 both SU and ATS having defeated Charlotte, Detroit and Philadelphia not exactly the top tier of NBA clubs but their was one common denominator...the were underdogs in all three. The turnaround here is that they have become the favorite and have a target on their back. New York finally jumped into the win column handing Tom Thibodeau his first win with a 130-110 pounding of Milwaukee. That's a great confidence builder for this young Knicks team who look much improved. Take NEW YORK!

Purdue at Rutgers 7:00 ET

Boilermakers (+) over Scarlet Knights- Rutgers was 6-0 with a pair of Big Ten wins over Maryland and Illinois and then ran into Ohio State was were out-classed 80-68 after building a 13-point lead. The Scarlet Knights won their first five games by double-digits but a 20-1 run by the Buckeyes brought Rutgers back to reality. The are lead by one-gang Ron Harper Jr. who can't do it alone and the Knights will be short handed as a pair of their standout freshman are questionable. Purdue had won the first eight meetings between the two until last season when Rutgers swept the series (2-0) and this time out the boilermakers get their revenge. Take PURDUE!

Portland at L.A. Lakers 10:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Lakers- There is a bit of an anomaly surrounding this contest as Portland is just 3-8 ATS in the last 11 meetings but they are 21-8 ATS in the last 29 meetings in Los Angeles. The last time these two clubs met was in the first round of the 2020 'Bubble Playoffs' and the Lakers took the series 4-1. The Blazers were off to a slow start getting pounded 120-100 in their open to Utah and struggled to defeat a short-handed Houston square the COVID restrictions and only nine active players. Anthony Davis is out for LA and Carmelo Anthony is out for Portland and I'll take that exchange any day of the week. Take PORTLAND!

Colorado at Arizona 9:00 ET

Buffaloes (+) over Wildcats- Something smells here! Arizona (6-1) who perennially is a national contender on the hardwood is a meager favorite at home over Colorado who since joining the Pac-12 in 2011 has never won in Tucson. Get this the Buffaloes are 13-39 ATS in their last 52 road games and yet they virtually have to win the game outright to win the bet. Coach Sean Miller said of his Wildcats he has five new faces starting and they may have won six games but they are 0-1 against Division I schools. Losing to Stanford in their conference opener. The Buffaloes are a veteran team that leads the nation in free throw percentage (85.9%) while Arizona is shooting 54.4% at the line in their last two games. Take COLORADO!

Houston at Denver 9:00 ET

Nuggets (-) over Rockets- Denver is 0-2 on the season and yet is a 9-point favorite over a team that has the league's leading scorer the last three seasons in James Harden. But that's not all, Houston also has four players in quarantine and the league is still looking to take action against Harden for violations of the COVID regulations. Denver who went to the conference finals last season is 0-2 at home losing outright as 9.5-point favorites in both games. Although the Rockets are 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings but they are 7-17 ATS on the road while despite the recent losses the Nuggets are 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 at home. Third time will be a charm for the Nuggets at home...take DENVER!

Memphis at Brooklyn 7:00 ET

Grizzlies (+) over Nets- Dreams of a perfect season were dashed at Charlotte when the Hornets built an 18-point lead before holding on to hand the Nets first loss of the season 106-104. Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving have been outstanding together leading Brooklyn in scoring in all three of their game to date But, it appears that one of the Nets 'Big-Two' will mostly likely rest as both are coming off serious season ending injuries. Memphis is looking for their first win of the season and fight to get it here. Take MEMPHIS!

Phoenix at Sacramento 9:00 ET

Kings (+) over Suns- We are going to see a lot of back-to-back series between teams that might not seem that unusual except that like baseball the back-to-back series will have they home team hosting both games. The Kings prevailed for us last night over the Suns and I expect them to do it again tonight. Phoenix opened with a win over Dallas for their nine straight as the closed last season with eight straight win ending the season in the bubble. Phoenix is 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS loss while the Kings are 10-2-1 ATAS in their last 13 as underdogs including 7-1-1 ATS in their last nine as home dogs. Take SACRAMENTO!

Boston at Indiana 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Celtics- Boston opened their season with a thrilling 122-121 victory over Milwaukee and then held a 64-59 lead over Brooklyn at the half and were outscored 72-41 in the second. With the departure of Gordon Hayward and Al Horford Boston doesn't have the chemistry of recent seasons. Indiana has a healthy Victor Oladipo and a powerful Domantas Sabonis who is averaging 27 points and 12 rebounds per game. Boston is 8-3 ATS in their last 11 road games while the Pacers are 5-2-` ATS in their last eight home games. Take INDIANA!

Philadelphia at Cleveland 7:30 ET

Cavaliers (+) over 76ers- The Sixers seem to have a new attitude under Doc Rivers leadership as Joel Embiid looks rejuvenated as he averages 28 points and 12 rebounds. Cleveland has won their first two games for the first time since LeBron James left as No. 1 draft pick Collin Sexton has been unstoppable and is off a 32 point performance. Kevin Love is back in the lineup and the Sixers were just 10-24 on the road last season. Take the CAVALIERS!

Phoenix at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (+) over Suns- It has been a combined 24 years between these two since either has made the playoffs 14 season for the Kings and 10 years for the Suns. Both clubs opened season with wins as Phoenix took care of Dallas at home while Sacramento went to Denver and won in OT 124-122. The Suns have now won nine straight as they were 8-0 in 'Bubble' games closing last season and they are 11-1 ATS in their last seven. The Kings have been playing well themselves as the are 5-2 ATS as underdogs in their last seven and 9-2-1 ATS as underdogs including 6-1-1 ATS at home as dogs. Take SACRAMENTO!

Indiana at Chicago 8:00 ET
Bulls (+) over Pacers- With Victor Oladipo returning to the form that set him apart in 2018 Indiana just toyed with the Knicks for the first half before turning in on and running away from New York in the second half. The Pacers made the playoffs in each of the past four seasons but fired coach Nate McMillan and he was replaced this year with another Nate...Bjorkgren. Chicago also has a new head coach in Billy Donovan who says their opening game loss to Atlanta was a result of the Hawks incredible shooting. Well, we will see soon...Take CHICAGO!

Philadelphia at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over 76ers- The 76ers did their thing staging a fourth quarter comeback in defeating the Wizards gaining the victory with a non-cover. In their opener against Indiana New York held a lead at the half and then just could keep pace as the Pacers just ran over the Knicks in the second half. New York under their first year with veteran coach Tom Thibodeau showed some signs of promise as RJ Barrett looked like the player the Knicks thought he could be. I'm not sure if Philadelphia has solved any of their internal issues but the are still 16-35-2 ATS in their last 53 road games. Take NEW YORK!

Indiana at Illinois 4:00 ET

Hoosiers (+) over Illini- Indiana just opened their Big Ten season with a home loss to Northwestern as a 7-point favorite and now are about the same price as an underdog at Illinois. The Illini just pounded Penn State 98-81 as a 4.5-point road favorite as they took control midway thru the second half. Hoosiers coach Archie Miller was so upset with his clubs performance he call a 9am Christmas Eve practice to fix their ills and the Hoosiers are 7-0 ATS after a straight-up loss. Now, you understand why...Take INDIANA!

Gonzaga at Virginia 4:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Bulldogs- No. 15 Virginia was looking to prove themselves against ranked teams like Villanova, Florida and Michigan State all of which were cancelled do to COVID issues. The Cavaliers have won three straight but haven't played anyone the likes No. 1 Gonzaga's (6-0) who just played a pair of games against Northwestern State just to stay sharp as they won by 38 and 17 as 39 and 43-point favorites. Virginia (4-1) will be facing a Bulldogs team that averages 95PPG and Tony Bennett will have his No. 5 ranked defense ready and they rise to meet their competition and are 37-16 ATS in their last 53 games as an underdog. Take VIRGINIA!

Kentucky at Louisville 1:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Cardinals- These two have mirror records and the Wildcats at 1-5 may be in trouble when the Big Dance arrives and the 5-1 Cardinals will have to be better than what we've seen. Louisville does have wins over Seton Hall and their ACC opener over Pittsburgh but they were destroyed by Wisconsin 85-48. Kentucky has a number of problems one of which is poor shooting from the line (66%) and from beyond the arc (24.3). They are young and have maturity issues as Calipari has given players leave of absence from the team for a limited time. This is the 'biggest' game of the schedule for both side and a huge effort is needed in the worst way for the Wildcats. Take KENTUCKY!

L.A. Clippers at Denver 10:30 ET

Nuggets (+) over Clippers- I just love the way this one sets itself up as the Clippers come off their opening night win over the NBA Champs and take to the road against a beaten-favorite. Denver lost in overtime at Sacramento and return home hungry for their first win of the season. The last time these two met was during the 'Bubble Playoffs' and LA had a 3-1 game lead in the series only to see the Nuggets come back with three straight wins. In their loss to the Kings Jamal Murray had one field goal before fouling out, I expect a much better performance tonight. Denver 10-4 ATS as home dogs. Take NUGGETS!

Iowa at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Golden Gophers (+) over Hawkeys- Funny isn't it how two teams from the same conference the Big Ten with the same impressive record (7-1) can be graded so differently. Iowa is ranked No. 5 and has only lost to No. 1 Gonzaga while the Golden Gophers only lost at Illinois and are unranked. Minnesota coach Richard Pitino has made his squad aware of the media's opinion of their record and talent. Iowa has won the last two meetings but the gophers won 12 of the previous 17. Iowa is just 3-7 ATS as road favorites and the home team is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings. Take MINNESOTA!

Brooklyn at Boston 5:00 ET

Celtics (+) over Nets- Okay, everyone was waiting to see what the Nets would look and play like with their cadre of Superstars and they did not disappoint running away from the Warriors 125-99 with Durant and Irving leading the way with scoring 22 and 26 points respectively. Boston of course pulled another home underdog win against Milwaukee and are now 17-4 ATS as home underdogs and 23-8 in their last 31 games as dogs overall. Nets 7-2 ATS on the road but this is a new group and it's their first road game. Take BOSTON!

Golden State at Milwaukee 2:30 ET

Warriors (+) over Bucks- From what I've seen of the Warriors I'm beginning to wonder if the belong in this league. Granted losing Klay Thompson once again for a full season has doomed this franchise for another season. Along with Stephen Curry they were (are?) the best 'shooting guard' tandem in the league but with Draymon Green still out they don't have the defensive intensity needed and the pressure showed in Curry's terrible performance at Brooklyn on Tuesday. The Bucks had the best record in the NBA and still they have nothing to show for it while Golden State had the worst record in the league and got No. 1 pick James Wiseman out of the mix. Take the WARRIORS!