Detroit at Green Bay 8:30 ET

Packers (+) over Lions- Both these clubs were off to quick starts but are on losing streaks as the Lions have dropped their last three and Green Bay without Aaron Rogers have lost their last two. In week 17 last season the Packers went onto Detroit and took the NFC Central away from the Lions with a 31-24 win as a 3.5-point favorite. This time around the Lions are favored at Green Bay and in this contest and even though the Packers will be playing Brett Hundley at quarterback have had an extra week to prepare. Add that the Lions are just 1-5 in their last six strips to Green Bay. Take the PACKERS!  

Oakland at Miami 8:30 ET

Dolphins (+) over Raiders- Oh boy is this going to be fun. Miami head coach Adam Gase decided the best way to improve the NFL's worst offense which is last in points scored 13.1 and yards per game with 252 is to trade your star running back. Gone is Jay Ajayi but we anxiously welcome the return of Jay Cutler. Oakland on the other hand has dropped five of their last six games and are the only NFL team without and interception. Although I am sure with Cutler throwing the way he does they will get at least one Sunday. They may get that interception but it won't matter as Miami has a history of beating the Raiders going 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings and note that the underdog is 5-2 ATS in the last seven. Take MIAMI! 

L.A. Rams at New York Giants 1:00 ET

Giants (+) over Rams- The questions here is, 'Can or will a team play hard for themselves or each other when they have no respect for their coach?' No less then four New York Giants players failed to return to practice the first day back after they team had a bye week and were given six days off. Head coach Ben McAdoo who has had to fine and suspend one player already for leaving the field and returning to the locker room while the game was still being played, (he had been benched) fined all four players with one getting suspended for Sunday's game because he didn't even bother to call the team, he was a no phone, no show. New York has actually played good run defense and that will spell the difference Sunday. The Giants are 0-3 at home while the Rams are 3-0 on the road while New York is 8-0 ATS in the last eight meetings...shit happens! Take the NEW YORK GIANTS!  

Virginia Tech at Miami-FL 8:00 ET

Hurricanes (+) over Hokies- Boy, if there is a 'Don't Make Sense' game this week, this is it...by far. It has taken much study and influx of information for me to realize who is the 'side' in this matchup. To start with No. 6 (AP poll) Miami is undefeated 7-0 and are hosting a lower ranked team No. 13 Virginia Tech who has one loss (Clemson 31-17) opening as the favorite. That does not make sense. What makes even less sense is that the 'public' is taking the road favorite who are the lower ranked team with a loss. The Hurricanes have Notre Dame up next and maybe that has some influence on the line but I'm sure Mark Richt will have the Canes ready. Take MIAMI-FL! 

Oklahoma at Oklahoma State 4:00 ET

Cowboys (+) over Sooners- Oh Boy! This should be a goody! Both clubs are 7-1 with a loss in Big-12 play but any other loss by either of these two will eliminate them from College Football Playoff contention. Oklahoma by virtues of their pounding earlier of Ohio State are ranked No.5. Oklahoma State is ranked No. 9 with their loss to TCU in September but can move up here with any kind of win. The Sooners loss came at the hands of Iowa State but have had the best of this series going 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings (85-19-7 SU all-time) including 5-1 ATS in their last six trips to Stillwater. This Bedlam rivalry should be a shootout with Sooners' QB Baker Mayfield (10-0 on Big-12 road) and Cowboys' Mason Randolph but it will be OK State's better running game that will spell the difference. Take OKLAHOMA STATE!  

Clemson at N.C. State 3:30 ET

Wolfpack (+) over Tigers- The Tigers realize that they must win-out to have a chance at reaching the Championship series and with their series record against N.C. State they should enter this fray with plenty of confidence as they have won the last five meetings and 9-of-10. But, NC State is 6-1-1 ATS as home dogs of 6 or more and will be ready here. Clemson is 1-4 ATS in the last five meetings but are 6-2 in their last eight meetings in Raleigh. A balanced offense and the return of Nyheim Hines at running back will be key for the Pack. Take NORTH CAROLINA STATE! 

Wake Forest at Notre Dame 3:30 ET

Demon Deacons (+) over Fighting Irish- Notre Dame has reeled off six straight since their 20-19 home loss to No. 2 Georgia and have moved into the third spot in the College Football Playoff rankings. Notre Dame blasted No. 10 USC 49-14 and handled NC State easily last week 35-14 and have cover six in-a-row. After three straight losses the Deacons come alive and defeating Louisville 42-32 last week. Wake Forest exploded on offense against Louisville posting 625 yards in total offense led by quarterback John Wolford throwing for five TD's last week. Wake Forest has enough to keep this close especially with the Irish looking at Miami-FL next week. Take DEMON DEACONS! 

Penn State at Michigan State 12:00 ET

Spartans (+) over Nittany Lions- I refer to this contest as the 'bubble-burst' game for Penn State. The Nittany Lions look like they were headed to the CFP Final-4 as they led Ohio State from the opening kickoff to well, almost the finish. Not only were the Lions outscored 19-3 in the final quarter but they were out-gained by the Buckeyes by nearly 300 yards for the game as they were handed their first defeat of the season surrendering 529 yards on defense. Teams that are unbeaten after six or more wins and then lose are just 3-15 ATS the next time out since 1980. After last season's 45-12 loss the Spartans seek revenge. Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Buffalo at New York Jets 8:25 ET

Jets (+) over Bills- The Buffalo Bills (5-2) have a chance to move into a first place tie with New England with a win tonight for the first time since 1995. The Bills have done it for the most part on defense where they lead the NFL in turnover ratio with a plus-14. The Jets have dropped three straight after holding the AFC East lead themselves before returning to form. Buffalo defeated the Jets in the season opener 20-12 but are favored for the first time on the road and the underdog is 4-1 ATS in this series. Take NEW YORK JETS! 

Pittsburgh at Detroit 8:30 ET

Lions (+) over Steelers- Three weeks ago the talk was that Pittsburgh was done and 'Big Ben' should hang-up his cleats. Well, the Steelers currently own a two-game lead in the AFC Central and now they trouble are off-field matters where great players can't get on the field which Mike Tomlin has deemed a 'distraction.' Detroit may have the highest paid quarterback in the NFL but they also own a defense that has forced 14 turnovers including nine interceptions. The Lions have had an extra week after their 52-38 loss at New Orleans which gave Stafford time to heal a sprained ankle. Take DETROIT!

Dallas at Washington 4:25 ET

Redskins (+) over Cowboys- The health of the Redskins is a major concern here if you are looking to back Washington who lost three offensive linemen and injured a fourth in their loss to Philadelphia Monday night. They have signed a lineman who was released by the Ravens on Monday. Dallas is fresh off their 40-10 romp over San Francisco which can hardly be considered a test of any sort. The Cowboys lost their field goal kicker and that is always problematic for any club. The Cowboys have won six of the last eight meetings but also have issues with Elliott's court appearance on Monday. Note: The underdog is 25-9 ATS in the last 34 meetings. The best goes on...Take WASHINGTON!

Atlanta at New York Jets 1:00 ET

Jets (+) over Falcons- Don't be afraid! I know we all expect Atlanta to put it together at some time and what could be better then playing the Jets. The thing is I don't think it matters who they play. The Falcons may be suffering from the worst post Super Bowl hangover in NFL history. I know there are plenty of teams that didn't get back to the playoffs after the 'Big Game' but this Falcons team just doesn't pass the eye test...they don't look good at all. They have three losses all to AFC East teams losing to Miami, Buffalo and New England and now face the Jets who blew a 14-point fourth quarter lead to the Dolphins last Sunday. This is more about the Falcons...take NEW YORK JETS! 

Michigan State at Northwestern 3:30 ET

Wildcats (+) over Spartans- No. 16 Michigan State (6-1, 4-0) has won four straight, is 4-0 in Big Ten action, 5-2 ATS and are in a three-way tie with Ohio State and Penn State at the top of the East. After the season they had last year (3-9) this is a big surprise for Big Ten 'experts' who again picked the Spartans to finish near the bottom. After an 0-2 start in conference play Northwestern has posted a pair of wins winning at Maryland and at home over Iowa. State has struggled on offense and were more then lucky to pull off their win at Indiana last week. The Wildcats will move the ball with all-time leading school rusher Justin Jackson and QB Clayton Thorson. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Penn State at Ohio State 3:30 ET

Buckeyes (-) over Nittany Lions- Okay, to me this is the game of the day and I find the nation's No. 2 ranked team almost a full underdog. Does that not seem a bit strange to you...it does to me! Last season the rolls were reversed as Ohio State entered their fray against the Lions undefeated and were upended. But, this time it is Penn State that is unbeaten and a heavy underdog Buckeyes. This 'line' seems extremely high as the Nittany Lions are No. 1 in scoring defense allowing just 9.6 points per game and yet The Buckeyes are almost a touchdown favorite. Then you realize Urban Meyer teams are 20-1 after a bye week and 5-0 against Top-25 opponents. Take OHIO STATE! 

Denver at L.A. Chargers 4:25 ET

Chargers over Broncos- 'Break-up the Chargers!' Los Angeles (I'm still having troubles with that) has won two straight after dropping their first fur of the season. Denver on the other hand has dropped 2-of-3 including a bashing by the previous winless NY Giants on Sunday night. The Broncos already have a win over the Chargers on opening Monday night but they surrendered the 'cover' as Phillip Rivers put up two late scores that just brought LA (+3.5) in under the wire is a 24-21 loss. Denver has won six of the last seven meetings but the Chargers have the more experienced quarterback and a fresh coach that believes LA could be 6-0. O like confidence. Take LA CHARGERS!

U.S.C. at Notre Dame 8:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Fighting Irish- I must start by saying I watched all of USC vs. Utah last week and I must admit that I was not impressed with the Trojans. The Utes just shoved and ran the ball right down USC's throat and their was nothing the Trojans could do to stop it. I'm afraid with Notre Dame power game that USC will have trouble containing the Irish offense. But, still the Trojans will have the best running back in Ronald Jones in the game along with the best quarterback Sam Darnold who out classes Irish QB Brandon Wimbush by a wide margin. Beware of Trojans...Take SOUTHERN CAL!

Kansas City at Oakland 8:25 ET

Raiders (+) over Chiefs- Both these clubs find themselves off of losses as Kansas City fell from the ranks of the undefeated (last NFL team to lose) losing to the Steelers 19-13 on Sunday while Oakland dropped their fourth straight after a quick start to the season and is now 2-4. Two of the better quarterbacks will face-off with Alex Smith emerging as an offensive leader the Chiefs would seem to have better balance then the Raiders who rely more on Derek Carr. Carr who played injured did not show much mobility and seemed tentative in his first start since his neck injury. Smith has had the best of the Raiders going 9-1 with 19 TD's and just four interceptions while Carr has lost five straight to Kansas City but has 14 TD passes in his last six home games. In a mild surprise...take OAKLAND!

Memphis at Houston 8:00 ET

Cougars (-) over Tigers- Memphis (5-1) blew the 'cover' but sunk the Navy 30-27 last week and now travel to Houston (4-2) for this pivotal AAC showdown as the No. 25 ranked team in the nation. The Tigers have defeated two ranked team this season and now are an underdog the a Cougars club that has lost much of its bite after losing head coach Herman to Texas. Major Applewhite returns to Houston with his club blowing a 10-point lead and losing to Tulsa 45-17 and says his club was 'humbled' after their loss. When we have here...is a ranked team an underdog against a team that lost big on the road. I'll take the Cougars to claw away a victory. Take HOUSTON! 

Pittsburgh at Kansas City 4:25 ET

Steelers (+) over Chiefs- Hey, what's going on here? The Steelers look like a battered and beaten club after their crushing loss to Jacksonville and now they travel to Kansas City to play the only undefeated (5-0) team in the NFL. The 'line' opened 4.5 against I expected it to rise as work of the internal problems the Steelers are facing and I have seen just the opposite as the line has moved down. Now, that either means that huge amounts of money has surfaced Pittsburgh or the 'inside men' know whats going on and expect the 'Men of Steel' to regroup and win. I trust the 'Inside men.' Take PITTSBURGH!

Green Bay at Minnesota 1:00 ET

Vikings (+) over Packers- Now, this one seems a bit 'off' to me as the ailing Vikings with no running back and an injured quarterback would be such a small underdog to Green Bay and Aaron Rogers. I am aware Sam Bradford most likely won't play and I think the Vikings are better off for it. Face it, a quarterback with mobility challenges is not a part of today's game (see Eli Manning) and Minnesota will be better with Casey Keenum who is more then capable. This one just doesn't look right...take MINNESOTA!

Green Bay at Dallas 4:25 ET

Cowboys(-) over Packers- Well, it looks to me like the faithful have lost their faith in the 2-2 Cowboys. Dallas was a beaten (outright) home favorite last Sunday as the LA Rams came to town gained over 400 yards and time of possession as well. Aaron Rogers is as good as he ever was passing for at least 300 yards in five of his last six games, unfortunately for him the pressure the Cowboys put on him will make him think that he has been 'hog-tied' as the Dallas defense raises to stuff the Packers. Remember the Cowboys did have an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter against the Rams until they started think about Green Bay coming to town. Take DALLAS!

Carolina at Detroit 1:00 ET

Panthers (+) over Lions- I am perplexed by a few things with this game the 'price' not withstanding. The perception from the public, the wise guys and supposed 'sharps' all interested in the same side of this one. Well, when that happens I throw out all stats and try to figure out why. I admit that the Lions are one replay and count-off away from being 4-0 both straight-up and ATS while Carolina is off an outright upset win over New England. But, 'Is there something I'm not aware of about this game', something the 'books' would know but not 'us.' With social media the way it is I don't think they can keep information away from any of 'us.' So, what I am saying is I will swim upstream in this one somehow, someway we will get there! Join me with CAROLINA! 

Washington State at Oregon 8:00 ET

Ducks over Cougars- Washington State has opened the season with five straight wins including their upset win over USC 30-27 which closed out a 5-game homestand. The Cougars Senior quarterback Luke Falk will lead a one-dimensional offense (1,718 passing yards) that has scored 41 points per game and has yet to see the road. Oregon has a habit of putting up points as well having scored 248 points in five games but will be without starting quarterback Justin Herbert who broke his collarbone. Playing their first road game of the season at game six is not good for the visitor. Washington State has one the last two meetings but it's time for the Ducks to fly here. Take OREGON! 

Miami-FL at Florida State 3:30 ET

Seminoles (+) over Hurricanes- I love when these two teams meet but this season the match-up was pushed back because of Irma but the rivalry is as intense as ever. Florida State (1-2) who has won seven straight in this series but has major issues coming into this pivotal battle as they have lost their quarterback for the year and haven't been able as of yet to pick-up the pieces. The Hurricanes blow into Tallahassee a perfect 3-0 having won eight straight games dating back to last season and their average margin of victory has been 21 points. The Seminoles must rely on their defense to rise as that have yet to show any consistency on offense scoring just three touchdowns on 12 trips inside the Red Zone. Still, State's entire season is on the line here. Take FLORIDA STATE!

Washington at Kansas City 8:30 ET

Redskins (+) over Chiefs- The Kansas City Chiefs are the lone remaining undefeated team ending Week 4 Monday night as they host Washington. The Chiefs offense has a 'new' look this season with the electrifying rookies Kareen Hunt who leads the NFL with 401 yards rushing (3 games) and has three 50-yard-plus touchdowns. The Redskins whopped the Raiders 27-10 last Sunday night as Kirk Cousins threw for 365 yards while winning Player of the Week award. The last time the Chiefs played on a Monday night the crushed New England 41-14 in 2014 but that won't help here. Take REDSKINS! 

Oakland at Denver 4:25 WT

Raiders (+) over Broncos- Last season the Raiders appeared to have the AFC wrapped up and then Derek Carr went down and Oakland went into the tank losing out the final two weekends including the final Sunday at Denver and were dominated 24-6. It looked to me like the Raiders took last Sunday night off as they were never in it against Washington while Denver was laying down at Buffalo. (Bills AFC GOM Winner) Oakland has revenge on its mind and get the money here. Take OAKLAND!

New York Giants at Tampa Bay 1:00 ET

Buccaneers (-) over Giants- I am loving it! The entire pre-season everyone was touting the Giants to beat Dallas and run away with the NFC East...HA! Here they are 0-3 and truly caught up stream without a paddle, they have no running game (zero, nada, none) and their defense allows 153.3 yards per game. Eli Manning is immobile and is forced to rush his throws which have become increasingly inaccurate. Tampa Bay is off a lackluster performance at Minnesota where Winston threw three interceptions and they ran for just 26 yards. Look for a strong defensive effort from the Buccaneers as the Giants offense sputters again. Take TAMPA BAY!

Jacksonville at New York Jets 1:00 ET

Jets (+) over Jaguars- Don't get the idea that 'we' are taking New York because of any Jet-lag (please excuse that one) after their game in London last Sunday. Teams returning to the States (please stand) from England actually show a winning record the past nine games winning seven. Jacksonville is felling really good about themselves and it all revolves around the running game as Leonard Fournette has help give Blake some breathing room. New York is off their best defensive effort in nine years while holding Jay Ajayi to less then 30 yards. They will do it again to Fournette and they will record their fourth straight win over the Jaguars. Take the J-E-T-S!

Oklahoma State at Texas Tech 8:00 ET

Red Raiders (+) over Cowboys- There will be football filling the air Saturday when these two high scoring offense take the field. Talk of being one of the Final-4 was stopped in Stillwater after Oklahoma State beating at the hands of TCU as Heisman candidate Mason Rudolph turned the ball over three times although passing for 398 yards. Texas Tech (3-0) is undefeated and is 6-0-1 ATS the past seven years in their Big-12 opener and is averaging 45-points per game. The winning team has scored 45 points or more in eight of the last 10 meetings and with QB Nic Shimonek passing for 416 yards per game give the Red Raiders a fighting chance. Take TEXAS TECH! 

Iowa at Michigan State 4:00 ET

Spartans (-) over over Hawkeyes- This was the first game 'I spied' upon getting the opening lines for this week and it is really a great spot for a number of reason. Starting with the fact that 'we' were 2-0 with Iowa (+) over Penn State and the Irish 'against' Michigan State last week and that the Hawks were out-gained by 300 yards and the Spartans out-gained the Irish by 150 yards. I am expecting the Hawkeyes to be flat this time out after losing on the final pay of the game against the Lions while the Spartans were making mistakes and now I expect a huge rebound here out of them. Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Georgia at Tennessee 3:30 ET

Volunteers (+) over Bulldogs- Georgia (Heavy Hitter) was part of our 'Big Game' Sweep Saturday and now with the pressure off they remain a favorite in tough SEC territory. The Volunteers slept-walked through their contest against Massachusetts (17-14) last week with the thought of today's encounter in their heads. Rocky-Top will be 'rockin' Saturday and Tennessee will be ready for the Bulldogs running game will be balance it out with John Kelly who leads the SEC in rushing. Take TENNESSEE! 

USC at Washington State 10:35 ET

Cougars (+) over Trojans- This will be State's fifth straight home game to open the season scoring at least 31 points in every game as they are 1-0 in PAC-12 action with a win over Oregon State. The Trojans are 2-0 in conference play with wins over Stanford and California and are 5-1 ATS in their last six visits to Pullman and 19-3-1 overall. But, coach Mike Leach is 9-1 ATS with Washington State as an underdog against undefeated foes. The Cougars average over 44 points per game led by 4th year quarterback Luke Falk who is completing 77% of his passes with 14 touchdowns and only one interception. Take WASHINGTON STATE!

Oakland at Washington 8:25 ET

Redskins (-) over Raiders- Oakland has been the darlings of the 'public' so far winning and getting the money in both their games against the Jets and Titans. Washington lost their home opener to Philadelphia and then went to Los Angeles and shocked the Rams. History is not on the Raiders side in this Sunday night encounter as they are 1-8 straight-up and 3-6 ATS against the NFC East including 0-3 straight-up and ATS after a win. Add that they are 0-7 ATS when entering a Sunday night game off two straight wins. Take the REDSKINS!  

Kansas City at L.A. Chargers 4:25 ET

Chargers (+) over Chiefs- The Chiefs are off and running posting two impressive wins over New England and Philadelphia averaging 35 points in the process. San Diego (oops) Los Angeles is off to another poor start (0-2) losing their first two games by a combined five points and have lost six straight in a series that has the Chiefs ahead 58-54-1. Kansas City has defeated AFC West opponents in 11 straight games but will have their hands full with Melvin Gordon and Phillip Rivers leading the Chargers offense. Take LOS ANGELES! 

Denver at Buffalo 1:00 ET

Bills (+) over Broncos- Okay here's the deal, Denver has looked like the best team in the NFL manhandling both the Chargers and Cowboys at home. Having used the Broncos as my 'highest-rated' Megabucks release I was pleased but not surprised. The Bills on the other hand are the same old story with one win over the Jets (if that counts) at home and a tough 'cover' last week against Carolina. It appears the Denver just does not like playing Buffalo as they are 1-6 ATS in their last seven meetings. Coming off Dallas is not treat as teams are just 3-7 ATS after beating the Cowboys and the Broncos are 1-8 ATS as favorites before facing the Raiders. Take BUFFALO! 

Penn State at Iowa 7:30 ET

Hawkeyes (+) over Nittany Lions- There are number of factors that play into this selection as they big, bad Lions (3-0) come roaring into Kinnick Stadium after throttling their first three opponents by a combined score of 141-14. Last season at home Penn State won easily 41-14 as a 7-point favorite and now they are bumped to almost twice that number and that is a tough price to beat. Iowa is a club that plays well at home as a conference home dog (9-2 ATS) as well as a when looking for revenge (7-1 ATS). Sure, the Lions have the flash in McSorley and Barkley but the Hawkeyes counter with Nathan Stanley (10-TDs, 1-Int) who manages the game without mistakes. Take IOWA! 

Mississippi State at Georgia 7:00 ET

Bulldogs (-) over Bulldogs- Happy to say 'we' used Mississippi St (+7) 37-7 as a 'Heavy Hitter' OUTRIGHT winner over LSU but, do I expect another high level energy and flawless performance...No I do not. Although State has outscored it's opponents 143-28 teams that 'upset' LSU are a poor 18-30 ATS (Thanks ML) next time out. Georgia 'hurt' 'us' a couple weeks back by taking Notre Dame down as a outright dog winner and here they stand as a shrinking favorite. This is the home teams' SEC opener and they are bring a ground game that Miss. St. has not seen the likes of. Take GEORGIA!

San Diego State at Air Force 7:00 ET

Flacons (+) over Aztecs- San Diego State has surprise a few this season by not this guy where was on them twice against Arizona State and Stanford both outright wins. The Aztecs have the nation's leading rusher in Rashaad Penny who already has three Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Week awards. Penny averages 196 yards rushing per game as he enter the conference opener in Colorado Springs where Air Force is 18-2 straight-up in their last 20 contests which including 5-0 ATS as underdogs. Bad spot for Aztecs who upset Stanford on a TD pass with less then a minute to play. Time runs out on them Saturday. Take AIR FORCE! 

Central Florida at Maryland 3:00 ET

Knights (+) over Terrapins- Maryland has opened the season 2-0 scoring over 50-points in both wins while averaging 315 yards rushing with wins over Texas and Towson. Central Florida has had a three week break due to weather and scored 61 points points themselves in their opener against Florida International who had 17. The Knights will be looking to atone for their sloppy 30-24 loss last season in Orlando will extra time between contests gives us a trend favoring the Knights 12-4-1 ATS in Game 2 off a win and rest. Add that Maryland is just 5-10 ATS as a non-conference home favorite. Take CENTRAL FLORIDA!  

L.A. Rams at San Francisco 8:30 ET

49ers (+) over Rams- Two of the NFL's weakest clubs will meet tonight with a pair of rookie coaches leading the way. The Rams posted an opening week win over the also hapless Colts but fell as a favorite to Washington last week. San Francisco is 0-2 and has yet to score a touchdown playing as good as it could against Seattle in their 12-9 loss last Sunday. The Niners have lost two of their stellar starts on defense as Eric Reid and Reuben Foster but have seem the emergence of Carlos Hyde who ran for 124 yards against Seattle last week. This time he runs for the win. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

Detroit at New York Giants 8:30 ET

Giants (-) over Lions- The Giants are off their dismal offensive performance in their opening game scoring just 3 points in their loss to Dallas. New York was without Odell Beckham Jr. and it affected their already weak running game that managed just 35 yards on the ground and just two first downs in the first half. Detroit meanwhile was came from behind winner as they closed out Arizona with in the 4th quarter scoring the final 19 points of the game. The battle between quarterbacks Eli Manning and Mathew Stafford should fill the air with footballs as both as used to fourth quarter come-backs as they are No. 1 and 2 in 4th quarter comebacks. Tonight the Giants won't need it. Take NEW YORK!

Dallas at Denver 4:25 ET

Broncos (+) over Cowboys- Ya know, all week I'm lookin' at the Broncos and I'm thinking why should Dallas come in here and be favored? Yes, they just dominated their main division competition at home and travel for a non-conference affair. Denver is off their Monday Night win (barely) over the Chargers and have had only six days but did not have to travel anywhere. They were home the entire week and signing former starting quarterbacks for insurance. Great spot for Broncos. Take DENVER!

New England at New Orleans 1:00 ET

Saints (+) over Patriots- Maybe it's just that the Pats are done. It happens to dysentery all the time. Where teams go from the best to absolutely dreadful over night the Giants of the 60's the . It just looks like the same old Saints team that hasn't had a winning record since 2013. Injuries just continue to haunt New England as they lost another receiver with Danny Amendola going down throws to Brandin Cooks who was with Brees and the Saints for three years with consecutive 1,000 yard seasons. The Patriots showed very little for the preseason and what we saw in their first game leaves a lot of questions. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Clemson at Louisville 8:00 ET

Cardinals (+) over Tigers- Wow, what a great match-up with the Heisman winner up against the defending National Champs. Clemson enters Pope John's Cardinal Stadium with 10 consecutive games on opponents fields and are 3-0 lifetime over Louisville including a 42-36 win at home last season. In that game Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson accounted four 457 yards and four touchdowns. In two games against Purdue and North Carolina the Heisman winner is averaging 505 yards per game 385 of which is passing. Look for the home team to gain some revenge for last season's loss at Clemson. Take LOUISVILLE!

U.C.L.A at Memphis 12:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Bruins- We have seen the Bruins move the ball through the air coming from behind against Texas A&M and routing Hawaii 57-23 while passing for 820 yards in two games. The problem for UCLA is that they have surrendered 332 yards rushing per game. That is not good for Jim Mora's squad as Memphis had two 100-yard rushers in the first-half of their opener ran for over 300 yards. With this game starting at noon Eastern time it is essentially a 9AM start for the West Coasters. Take MEMPHIS! 

New York Giants at Dallas 8:30 ET

Cowboys (-) over Giants- The entire summer and throughout the preseason I heard everywhere how it was the Giants were going to dethrone Dallas and win the NFC East. And while that was a buzz the Cowboys were in a mess of their own as Elliott was most likely sideline. Talk was of how the Giants took the 'Boys down twice last year and they have their 'number.' Well, the worm has turned as Elliott is able to play and New York's Super-star Odell Beckman Jr. might well be sidelined with a high ankle sprain. The Cowboys were a 1-point favorite in last years opener and although the thought is that the Giants have improved this year the line is much stronger. Take DALLAS

Seattle at Green Bay 4:25 ET

Seahawks (+) over Packers- This is not a spot where I feel completely comfortable and I will explain. Seattle won and covered all four of their preseason games and for the most part I have learned that when a team puts that much importance to the preseason they get taken down in week one. But, this is a unique situation as the Seahawks are not put into the position of being a favorite and they will get points here as the underdog. Green Bay has hosted an won the last two meetings winning both game easily. No so fast my friend. Take SEATTLE! 

Stanford at Southern Cal 8:30 ET

Trojans (-) over Cardinals- Man, after all the hype I had to endure for weeks about how good Southern Cal was all I have heard this week is how they are not the team many thought they were, this after one game. Stanford has had the best of it in this series the past decade winning the last three and seven of the past nine as they return from Australia off a 62-7 win over Rice. USC was tie in the 4th quarter against upstart Western Michigan before pulling away late winning 49-31. Although the Cardinal are 11-3 ATS in the last 14 meetings the Trojans have won 10 straight against FBS competition. Underrated USC gets it done here...Take the TROJANS! 

Georgia at Notre Dame 7:30 ET

Fighting Irish (-) over Bulldogs- Georgia's true freshman quarterback Jake Fromm became the storyline when he enter the game in mid-first quarter to lead the Bulldogs to a 31-10 victory over Appalachian State. The Irish meanwhile were running over Temple 49-16 behind three 100-yard rushers. Quarterback Fromm will find that playing on the road and against the Notre Dame defense will be much different than beating the Mountaineers at home. Tough spot for any QB much less a first road game for a freshman. Take NOTRE DAME!   

Auburn at Clemson 7:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Tigers- Okay let get this out of the way...Tigers win! There are so many things that I like about this game where I first saw the match-up. We will see some contrast here as Clemson enters the contest racking up 665 offensive yards in their 56-3 win against Kent while Auburn pounded Georgia Southern 41-7 holding the Eagles to 78 total yards. AU will be going with former Baylor QB Jarrett Stidham behind center and his experience and talent will overcome Death Valley. Take AUBURN!

Michigan vs. Florida 3:30 ET

Gators over Wolverines- A great match-up to start the season between two storied programs in Arlington Stadium. Michigan who lost 11 players to the NFL draft is ranked 9th while Florida who has back-to back SEC East Division titles will be without 10 players suspended for selling books. Hey we all understand most of the Platers at Florida may not be able to read anyway but the sure know how to play football. The Wolverines who are 16-3-1 in 20 regular season games against the SEC are 3-0 lifetime against the Gators including a 41-7 win in the Citrus Bowl the year before last. Something will have to give here as Michigan has won 28 straight openers and Florida hasn't lost a season opener since 1989 winning 27 in-a-row. This time the gators keep it close and possibly upset the Wolves outright. Take FLORIDA!

New England vs. Atlanta 6:30 ET

Patriots (-) over Falcons- 1/24/17-My first thoughts on this matchup were that the Patriots with all their post-season and Super Bowl experience would have a decided advantage over Atlanta. The Falcons could will be over-whelmed by the constant pressure and scrutiny of every movement or thought. New England has done it before and has a coach that has been their before and won’t allow distractions to become part of the preparation. A number of players and even a Falcons player has freaked-out during Super Bowl week and missed the game. Now, I'm not thinking that is will happen here but the pressure will be huge as 'new' experience. I think the knee jerk reaction here is to take Atlanta because of their offense although the Pats have received early money. Still wondering what story-line the media will come up with...I'll wait.

02-02-17- Okay, I've waited long enough and I'm saying with my original instinct. I know they money is heavy on the Pats but I am hearing more Atlanta talk everyday. I expect the New England 'hate' money to surface enough to help out the 'books.' I can give you a million stats but they won't matter once the ball is kicked-off. Take the PATRIOTS!

Green Bay at Atlanta 3:05 ET

Falcons (-) over Packers- No question the NFC Championship game has the conference's two top quarterbacks facing off as MVP candidate Matt Ryan will be up against former Super Bowl MVL Aaron Rogers who has been 'incredible' according to coach Mile McCarthy. Rogers has a 117.9 passer rating with 21 touchdowns and one interception during the Packers current eight-game win streak while Ryan has thrown for a franchise record 4,944 yards and has 14 TD passes and no interceptions during their current five-game winning streak. Atlanta scored an NFL best 540 points and has scored a touchdowns on its first possession in each of its last seven games. The Packers are 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings in Atlanta and the road team is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings. Take ATLANTA!

Pittsburgh at Kansas City 1:00 ET

Chiefs over Steelers- Boy, I hate doing this but I think I've got a winner. I mean I hate going against Ben Roethlistberger because he truly is a 'gamer' and he plays through pain. The Steelers come in on an eight game winning streak including last weeks Wild Card win over hapless Miami. These two met in Pittsburgh the first week of October and the Steelers crushed 43-13 and now they are a virtual pick-em. Chiefs mentor Andy Reid is 18-0 straight-up and 14-4 ATS when he has had an extra week to prepare. I like it! Take KANSAS CITY!

Green Bay at Dallas 4:40 ET

Cowboys (-) over Packers- Well, this one looks like a 'Mexican Standoff' and I don't mean on the field. The way I see it, it will be a battle between the 'public' and the 'sharps' as Vegas sees it. Green Bay is 5-1-1 ATS against playoffs teams this season including a home loss to the Cowboys (30-16) and Dallas is 5-1 both SU and ATS at home against playoff competition. Yep, a heap big stand-off. Bad news for Packers fans teams that lose during the regular season to a playoff opponent are 3-15 SU and 5-13 ATS in Division playoffs. Packers enter hot with seven straight wins, while well rested Cowboys take aim.

Take DALLAS! 

Seattle at Atlanta 4:35 ET

Falcons (-) over Seahawks- Odds are pretty good from what's being said that Matt Ryan may end up the MVP and it would be a tough choice to dispute. The problem to this point of his career is that Matty Ice is 1-4 straight-up and 0-4-1 ATS in the playoffs. The Seahawks defeated (non-cover) Atlanta (+7) 26-24 at home in mid October without Thomas Rawls but had Earl Thomas in the defensive backfield. The Falcons are the No.1 scoring offense (33.8) in the NFL but are 29th ranked against the run. Road team is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings. But the Birds are 14-7 straight-up against NFC West and 4-0ATS in the last four. Lay it...take ATLANTA!

Clemson vs Alabama 8:00 ET

Crimson Tide (-) over Tigers- In a re-match of last season's National Championship game Alabama remains undefeated (14-0) and has won a school record 26 straight wins. Clemson who has only one blemish (13-1) a 43-42 loss to Pittsburgh. This is a tough call as the 'number' is close to what it was last year when the Tide eeked out a 45-40 win as the Tigers scored late for the 'back-door' cover. Clemson who is 8-1 ATS in their last nine neutral site games are also 6-0 ATS in their last six bowl games. Alabama on the other hand had a better ATS record going 10-4 for the money which is pretty damn good when you consider what heavy favorites they were all season long. The Tigers played their best and near perfect game against Ohio State in their 31-0 route of the Buckeyes and will go against an Alabama team that will have a 'new' offensive cooordinator Steve Sarkisian who will replace Lane Kiffin who left under strange circumstances. In last season's matchup the Tigers put up 550 yards on offense including 405 yards passing, I'm sure that won't happen again. Take ALABAMA! 

New York Giants at Green Bay 4:40 ET

Giants (+) over Packers- The biggest surprise of the NFL may be that the Giants who were the worst against the run last season are No. 1 in NFC scoring defense this season allowing just 17.75 points per game trailing only New England (14.06). New York has held three of the last four opponents to 10 points or less. The problem for the G-Men is on offense where they are ranked 25th (only playoff team worse is the Texans) and haven't scored 30 points once this season. These two also met in October in Green Bay where the Packers prevailed 23-16 when both quarterbacks suffered poor passing days. The Pack were at 4-6 when Aaron Rogers said they would run-the-table and they did just that winning their last six games while the Giants went 9-2 straight-up to close the season. New York who is 3-4 on the road totaled only 221 yards of offense in their meeting but did pick off two of Rogers' throws. New York has won their last two playoff trips to Lambeau Field and Packers avenge it all today. Take GREEN BAY!  

Detroit at Seattle 8:15 ET

Seahawks (-) over Lions- The Lions come straggering into the payoffs dropping their last three and haven't won a playoff game since the 1991, losing in their last seven appearances and 11 of 12. This is Seattle's fifth straight playoff appearance and they have won nine straight post-season games at home. Right now the Seahawks famed defense is hurting as all-pro safety Earl Thomas is out along with wide receiver Tyler Lockett and running back C.J. Prosise but have the return of Michael Bennett at defensive end and safety Kam Chancellor. The key for the Seahawks is their running game and when Thomas Rawls is healthy they can set up Russell Wilson's passing game. Detroit ranked 30th in rushing with offensive line woes and a quarterback in Matthew Stafford that hasn't preformed well since injuring his finger. Take SEATTLE!  

Auburn vs Oklahoma 8:30 ET

Tigers (+) over Sooners- Oklahoma enters this contest winners of their last nine after starting the season 1-2 with brutal losses to Houston and Ohio State. The Sooners were undefeated (9-0) in the Big-12 while Auburn struggled through a tough SEC schedules going 5-3. Oklahoma averages almost 45 points per game but they will be shocked at the way the Tigers will come at them defensively. Auburn surrendered just 15.6 points per game and they will come up with an answer to Heisman finalist Baker Mayfield and dominate the play. Take AUBURN!

Western Michigan vs Wisconsin 1:00 ET

Broncos (+) over Badgers- Let me start by saying that if I didn't have my Bowl Game of the Year winner in the Auburn/Oklahoma game this would be a Best Bet release, so play it accordingly. This match-up reminds me of the famous Oklahoma and Boise State game where the Sooners like the Badgers were 8-point favorites to a team that few respected, therefore they had more to play for and that wins games. Wisconsin is a bit disappointed after their blowing a huge advantage in the Big Ten Championship game against Penn State. Broncos gallop! Take WESTERN MICHIGAN! 

Green Bay at Detroit 8:30 ET

Lions (+) over Packers- Great way to finish the season with the Packers and Lions having to win to get into the playoffs. Green Bay looked dead in the water at 4-6 five weeks ago and then Arron Rogers said that they would win out and here we are five straight wins later. Detroit who at 9-4 looked like a shoe-in but two straight losses have them fighting for their playoff lives. The ions new this how it was going to play out regardless if they won or not against Dallas last Monday. Take DETROIT! 

Dallas at Philadelphia 1:00 ET

Eagles (-) over Cowboys- After that display we witnessed last Monday night the 'Ginger' Jason Garrett said that the Cowboys will play all out even though they have the home field locked-up. Well, the odds-makers don't believe him as the Eagles were installed as a 4-point favorite. What I am being told here behind the scenes is that Dallas will not risk Ezekiel Elliott but we understand that Tony Romo will get some playing time. This outcome will be determined by motivation and effort, I don't expect either from the Cowboys this week. Take PHILADLEPHIA!  

Ohio State vs Clemson 7:00 ET

Buckeyes (-) over Tigers- This is the second trip for both schools to the College Football Playoff with the Buckeyes winning it all two years ago and the Tigers losing to Alabama in the championship game last year. J.T. Barrett missed his chance to play in this game two years ago but a leg injury ended his season and this year his stats having been what people had hoped but the Ohio State ground game pounds out 285 yards a game. Clemson's Deshaun Watson hasn't had the sparkle of last season either throwing 19 interceptions as the Tiger run game was just so-so. Better defense and coaching give the Buckeyes the edge. Take OHIO STATE!

Louisiana State vs Louisville 11:00 ET

Tigers (-) over Cardinals- Well, here we go again playing against the Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson who had over 50 touchdowns combined passing and rushing. The thing that gets me about this contest and no not the early start, (although I think that stinks) is that here is Louisville ranked No. 13 with a 9-3 record an underdog to a 7-4 LSU team that is ranked No. 20. Something seems amiss. It is call defense, and LSU plays it as well as anybody (except the obvious) allowing just 16.4 points per game. The Tigers will not have Leonard Fornette but he's been missing most of the season anyway, but they have found Darrius Guice who ran for 1,249 yards including 285 against Texas A&M. Take LSU!

Michigan vs Florida State 8:00 ET

Seminoles (+) over Wolverines- Everybody was expecting Michigan to work their way into the College Football Playoffs but losing two of their final three down the stretch at Iowa (14-13) and at Ohio State (30-27 OT). Florida State who was one of the big favorites to reach the CFP lost a disappointing three games to Louisville (63-20), N.Carolina (37-35) and Clemson (37-34). The Seminoles do enter on a four game win streak and have one of the nation's top NFL prospects in Dalvin Cook who rushed for over 100 yards in eight of nine games. Still, Take the WOLVERINES! 

Texas Christian vs Georgia 12:00 ET

Horned Frogs (-) over Bulldogs- Both these clubs find themselves in the Liberty Bowl before New Year's Day after disappointing seasons. TCU who was in the Top-10 in each of the past three years could manage just six wins while Georgia after firing Mark Richt won 10 in 2015 and just seven this campaign. The Bulldogs who have had to deal with an exceptional number of injuries at running back will have Nick Chubb and Sony Michel back next season but not so much now. TCU quarterback Sonny Hill came over from Texas A&M leads and offense that scores 31.7 points per game. With the 'number' moving the way it is there is only one side for me. Take TCU!

Arkansas vs Virginia Tech 5:30 ET

Hokies (-) over Razorbacks- Do they have the right team favored? That is the question that is repeating in my mind over and over as I have had two people both ask that question to me. This is due to the fact that Arkansas for some reason I am not aware of has made a positive impression on people. Maybe it's the SEC thing over the ACC I'm not sure but the Gobblers are supposed to be favored with a better record and overall defense. The Razorbacks are surrendering over 30 points per game but are also scoring the exact same amount. Gut feeling give me the Hokies. Take VIRGINIA TECH!

Indiana vs Utah 8:00 ET

Hoosiers (+) over Utes- This one stings a bit as I am 12-5 71% with my 'Highest-Rated' A-Plays (7-1 with GOY) this season and one of the losses was Indiana (+3.5) a 22-27 loser to Nebraska as the Huskers kicked a back-door field goal to cover in the final moments. So, I always have in the back of my mind am I going after this one just to get even...Nah, their's nothing in the back of my mind! There are a few things that I am concerned about, well, to start Utah has dropped their last two (Oregon and Colorado) and the Hoosiers are just so one-dimensional. The Utes are amazing 15-4 in bowl games going 11-1 straight-up and 10-2 ATS in last 12, but most of that was as heavy underdogs. The rolls have been switched. Take INDIANA!

West Virginia vs Miami 5:30 ET

Hurricanes (-) over West Virginia- I know a few 'people' who think this is the best bowl play of the season...I think that I have some better but this one still stands out to 'us.' Miami has had a streaky season both straight-up and against the points. To start with the win their first four games under new coach Frank Rich (from Georgia) then process to lose four-in-a-row and then closed the season with four straight wins again. The thing here is that even though the game is in Orlando (250 mile drive from Miami) why should the Hurricanes be favored over a #16 ranked team when they are un-ranked. Vegas knows more then the coaches and I bet on it! Take MIAMI!

Northwestern vs Pittsburgh 2:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Panthers- A contrast in styles will be on display when the Pittsburgh Panthers bring their 10th ranked scoring offense (42.3 points per game) faces The Northwestern Wildcats No. 23 ranked scoring defense. The Panthers scored 76 in their season finale against Syracuse and they of course are led by James Conner who scored 20 touchdowns while the Wildcats bring junior Justin Jackson who had a Big Ten leading 1,300 yards and 12 Td's rushing. At Yankee Stadium I'll side with the defense. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Baylor vs Boise State 10:15 ET

Bears (+) over Broncos- 'How about them Bears'...the started the season 6-0 and were ranked in the Top-10 and then the roof fell in. They closed the season with six straight losses and not a 'cover' among them. Baylor still have the fifth ranked offense nationally averaging 523 yards including 250 yards rushing. Interim coach Jim Grobe will gladly go back in retirement after this season one fill with out the field and on the field issues. Broncos a bit of a downer but at 10-2 have had trouble with turnovers. Both clubs were 3-8 ATS this season so I'll stick with the points. Take BAYLOR!

Detroit at Dallas 8:30 ET

Cowboys (-) over Lions- From what I can tell most believe the Cowboys will rest their best and even see to it that Tony Romo gets some playing time. With quarterbacks dropping left and right most don't have the luxury and depth that Dallas presents. Local high school start Matthew Stafford returns with a slight hand injury has seemed to affect his play as the Lions failed to score a touchdown against the Giants in a 19-6 loss at New York. The key that many are not aware of is that Detroit only has to win next week against the Packers to win the NFC North. I give the edge to the Cowboys. Take DALLAS!

Maryland vs. Boston College 2:30 ET

Eagles (+) over Terrapins- Both clubs are more then happy to be playing in a bowl games after posting three wins each last season. Former ACC foes both evened out at 6-6 with Maryland defeating Rutgers in their final game to become bowl eligible. Maryland will struggle to move the ball on the ground against the Eagles No. 7 ranked rush defense in the country. Boston College is 8-3 all-time against Maryland and the beat will go on here. Take the EAGLES!

Denver at Kansas City 8:30 ET

Broncos (+) over Chiefs- Boy, I wonder if Gary Kubiak regrets his brain cramp when trying a 62-yard field goal against these same Chiefs because he refused a take a tie. Well, the Broncos are on the outside looking in as far as the playoffs are concerned and now they have a team that is divided in the locker room as the defense is calling out the inept offense. Kansas City just out a a quick two touchdown lead last week against the titans and then lost on the games final play as Andy Reid gave Tennessee and extra chance to make the game winning field goal and they did it. Denver's defense can still contain check-down quarterback Alex Smith and win here. Take DENVER!

Washington at Chicago 1:00 ET

Bears (+) over Redskins- It sounds to me like the Redskins are already making excuses as to why they will fall short of the playoffs. After Monday's loss to Carolina left Tackle Trent Williams stated 'Short week are always tough' he continued, it's a physical game and it take 72,48 hours to recover...the games on...we got to play it.' Chicago has lost four of its last five but they are playing better since the Jay Cutler injury. Bears running back Jordan Howard has rushed for over 1,000 years averaging 5.0 per carry. Washington show what they were made of against the Bucs on Monday. Take CHICAGO!

Tennessee at Jacksonville 1:00 ET

Jaguars (+) over Titans- Well, the Gus Bradley era ended with a thud this week when Jacksonville absorbed their nine straight loss. The Jaguars were picked by many 'experts' to break into the playoffs but after winning only 14 of 62 games Doug Marrone has taken over as interim coach. The Titans at 8-6 are tie for the division lead as Marcus Mariota has matured quicker then most thought he would. The Titans have had a number of defensive injuries as they lost three starters last week. It catches up with them here. Take JACKSONVILLE!

Atlanta at Carolina 1:00 ET

Panthers (+) over Falcons- The Carolina Panthers are starting to play football like they should as they have won their last two and remarkably still have an outside shot at the playoffs. Atlanta of course has the NFL's most explosive offense with Matt Ryan and Julio Jones looking like an MVP combination. Even though the Falcons defeated Carolina in Week 4 (48-33) the Panthers' defense has forced wight turnovers the past two weeks and their running game in moving the ball. Getting points at home...I'll take CAROLINA! 

Louisiana Tech vs. Navy 1:30 ET

Midshipman (+) over Bulldogs- This game has had a dramatic change since the match-up was agreed upon. This contest opened with the Navy a small favorite and now Louisiana Tech have moved to a full touchdown due to injuries to the Midshipman's key personnel as quarterback Will North and their top running back are out for the finale. Both clubs enter this fray off two losses and Navy's of course hurt most in the AAC Championship and the loss for the first time in 14 years to Army. Usually, if I saw an unranked team favored (like this game) over a ranked team (#24 Navy) I would think something was up and I might lay the points...but, not here. Take NAVY! 

Brigham Young vs Wyoming 9:00 ET

Cougars (-) over Cowboys- Now, explain this to me...please! How does the odds makers figure to be a double-digit favorite when they will be starting a 'new' quarterback as 5th year senior Taysom Hill had a season ending knee injury in their final game. I saw Wyoming up close and personal as they scored 66 points against UNLV with Brian Hill running wild and quarterback Josh Allen was amazing, they problem is that the Rebels scored 69 points and won the game in overtimes. This is a step-up in class for the Cowboys as BYU is playing in their 12th straight Bowl game last winning here in 2012. Lay it! Take the COUGARS!

Tampa Bay at Dallas 8:30 ET

Cowboys (-) over Buccaneers- Oh, so now the Buccaneers are the favor of the month as they enter Dallas with five straight wins and 'covers' and an amazing 5-1 road record. Dallas meanwhile, continues to lead the NFC but are off three straight non-covers. Last Sunday the Cowboys had it handed to them for the second time by the Giants and will not enter this contest not taking it lightly. It looks like Jamis Winston is being to arrive but note that the Tampa Bay defense allowed only 11-points per contest during their winning streak. Dallas defense is up to the task. Take the COWBOYS!  

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati 1:00 ET

Bengals (+) over Steelers- The only left for the Bengals this season would be to rise up and end the Steelers four-game winning streak and slow down Big Ben and LeVeon Bell. Pittsburgh meanwhile is off a win at Buffalo where the Bills just rolled over and they won for fun. Roethlisberger is 10-2 during the regular season against the Bengals but A.J. Green returns Sunday and Cincinnati is looking to even the series after Pittsburgh's 26-16 Week 2 win. With revenge in mind...take CINCINNATI! 

Miami at New York Jets 8:25 ET

Jets (+) over Dolphins- Both clubs will be using replacement quarterbacks as veteran Matt Moore fills in for the Dolphins and Ryan Tannehill and second year man Bryce Petty once again gets the start for the New York Jets. These two are bitter AFC rivals and Miami already holds a win (27-23) and cover (-3.5) from their first match and the Jets will be looking to even the score. New York could have quit last week when the 49ers jumped out to a 14-0 lead and the Jets flew past them in the second half. They have not quit. Take the JETS!

Las Vegas Bowl 3:30 ET

Houston vs. San Diego State

Aztecs (+) over Cougars- The popular side here will without a doubt be the Houston Cougars coming out of the AAC they had impressive wins over Oklahoma 33-23 and Louisville who they routed 36-10 and the 'public' will long remember wins like that. San Diego State cooled-off after a 9-1 start dropping 2-of-3 going 0-3 ATS. Everyone is aware of the coaching change at Houston as Tom Herman left for Texas and Major Applewhite got the nod with interim coach Todd Orlando still on the staff. The Aztecs have Donnel Pumphrey (6,290) on the cusp of passing Ron Dayne the All-time rushing leader and with side kick Rashaad Penny (995 rushing yards) and will surprise the Cougars with their speed. Take SAN DIEGO STATE! 

Dallas at New York Giants 8:30 ET

Giants (+) over Cowboys- Kind of hard t believe that if it wasn't for the Giants winning opening day in Dallas the Cowboys would be undefeated at this time and we would be having the same types of conversation we had last year when Carolina was rolling through their schedule. If the 'Boys win here they will not only avenge their only loss but they will clinch a bye and home field throughout the playoffs. Alas, it most likely happen but not tonight. Look for a 'Giants' ambush. Take NEW YORK!

Pittsburgh at Buffalo 1:00 ET

Bills (+) over Steelers- Big Ben was down and the Steelers were reeling, well that was three weeks ago and now Pittsburgh is tied with Baltimore for the division lead and the Bengals are dead meat. The Bills meanwhile blew a 24-9 lead to the Raiders who scored 29 unanswered points to drop Buffalo to 6-6 with still a small chance to get to the post season. A win here would help in so many ways. The Bills defense can meet the challenge at home. Take BUFFALO!

Washington at Philadelphia 1:00 ET

Eagles (+) over Redskins- Ah the fortunes of rookie quarterbacks and 'new' head coaches. Philadelphia opened the season with three straight wins and everyone was clambering what a great move to draft and start Carson Wentz and now they are 5-7 and Peterson is no longer a genius and Wentz's numbers have evened out to where he has 12 TD passes and 11 Int's. Washington has dropped their last two and but has a 27-20 win over the Eagles to dwell on. To bad for them so will the Eagles...Take PHILADELPHIA!

Buffalo at Oakland 4:05 ET

Bills (+) over Raiders- With a win here either side has a chance to end one of the longest playoff droughts the Raiders at 13 seasons and the Bills at 16 years without post season action. Oakland's Derek Carr is one of my favorites but he dislocated his pinky on his throwing hand last week and that bothers me. The Bills have the type of offense that can exploit the Raiders porous rushing defense. Hey, what the heck the last time Buffalo won here was 1966. Number is very low, I'll take it! Give me BUFFALO! 

Penn State vs Wisconsin 8:00 ET

Nittany Lions (+) over Badgers- The story lines surrounding this game has more to do with other teams then the two that are battling for the Big-Ten Championship. Will it be Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Clemson, Colorado or even one of these two is still up in the air. Penn State who was blown-out by Michigan turned it around since going 8-0 and 7-1 ATS. The Lions have a balanced offense that wears down defense as the average 23 second half points. State has won four of the last five and will do it again here. Take PENN STATE! 

San Diego State at Wyoming 7:45 ET

Aztecs (-) over Cowboys- I am labeling this my 'bing-bang-boom-bash game.' It's simple and it figures. Three weeks ago 'we' posted UNLV over Wyoming and they WON 69-66, they next week 'we' took Wyoming (+9) and the WON 34-33 over these same Aztecs and then last week 'we' took New Mexico (+3) and they beat Wyoming 56-35. So. Now we have a rematch with San Diego State at Wyoming and the 'public and sharps' are take the home club (Cowboys) with points. NAH...Take SAN DIEGO STATE!

Temple at Navy 12:00 ET

Owls (+) over Midshipman- As they say...'something has got to give.' The Navy averages 342 yards on the ground and score 41.7 points per contest while Temple has a stop unit allowing only 128 yards rushing and led the AAC in scoring defense 17.8 points and total defense 273.4 yards. So, this contest will be about 'strength versus strength.' although the Owls have lost three times they have 10-straight spread covers. With the Middies playing at home and with an overall better record I am surprised that they are only favored by a field goal. Defense WINS championships...take TEMPLE!  

Colorado vs. Washington 9:00 ET

Buffaloes (+) over Huskies- There is a lot of noise about teams winning or not winning their conference championship to qualify for the CFP Final-4 and in this battle if Washington wins they are in and if Colorado wins they will probably make it to the Rose Bowl. The Huskies have been led by a defense that leads the Pac-12 in takeaways with a plus-18 and quarterback Jake Browning who has 40 touchdown passes and an efficiency rating of 181.6. Their defense also led the conference in scoring defense allowing just 17.8 points per game. Colorado lost twice and in both contests when quarterback their senior quarterback Sefo Liufau was out or removed in the third quarter because of injury. The Buffaloes led the conference in total yards surrendered (323.8) and pass defense (187.8 yards). In a tough tight battle...take COLORADO! 

Dallas at Minnesota 8:25 ET

Vikings (+) over Cowboys- Dallas has now won 10 in-a-row and can clinch a playoff spot with a win in Minnesota. This is the Cowboys third game in 12 days and so will the Vikings. After starting 5-0 the Vikings have dropped five of six and are now one-game behind Detroit in the NFC Central. Tony Romo is in the wings but it os doubtful he will see any action unless something drastic happens to Dak Prescott who has 18 touchdown passes and only two interceptions. Minnesota has struggled offensively but have the second best scoring defense in the league at 17.5 points. Sam Bradford says 'we should open up the playbook and they will. Take the VIKINGS 

New England at New York Jets 4:25 ET

Jets (+) over Patriots- Okay, straight-up I don't see how anybody can beat the Patriots if Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady are healthy and playing. I mean really Gronk is like Frankenstein out there he controls so much space and Brady doesn't need much room to complete a pass. The Jets who are out of playoff contention will start Ryan Fitzpatrick who split the pair last year but leads the league in interceptions. New England is 5-0 on the road while New York is 1-3 at home, those number will come closer together starting this afternoon. Take the J-E-T-S!   

Seattle at Tampa Bay 4:05 ET

Buccaneers (+) over Seahawks- Break-up the Buc's! Tampa Bay has won two in-a-row and is at .500 looking to make trouble in the NFC. Jameis Winston always seems to be in the mix as he has accounted for at least one touchdown running or passing in his last 26 games. The Seahawks are off three straight wins including a Sunday night at New England and Buffalo and Philadelphia at home. With Carolina up next at home where they are 5-0 Seattle might be 'peeking'. Look for the Buccaneers to come hard and pull out the win. Take TAMPA BAY!  

Arizona at Atlanta 1:00 ET

Cardinals (+) over Falcons- If any of you have been around this season you know that I have no regard for Arizona and that I have stated they are a hoax and will never win with Carson Palmer as your leader. That being said after seeing them play last week (we had the winner with the Vikings) a loss where they dominated the play but had a pick-6 at the goal line, a kick return and a flea-flicker go for touchdowns against them. Atlanta seems to be doing the same old time getting off to a quick start and them fading as the season wears on. Matt Ryan is having the best season of his career and it won't be enough today. Take ARIZONA! 

Wyoming at New Mexico 10:15 ET

Lobos (+) over Cowboys- We have had great success both on and against the Cowboys in recent weeks winning against with UNLV and with them last week an outright win over San Diego State. This week they travel to Albuquerque to face New Mexico who are 4-1 at home this season while Wyoming is 2-3 on the road. The Lobos are averaging 42.2 points at home while the Cowboys surrender 39.8 points away from home. Brian Hill is all conference for the Cowboys but he will be countered by Tyrone Owens who averages 8.1 yards per attempt and has over a 1,000 on the season. Bing-bang-boom! Take NEW MEXICO!  

Oregon at Oregon State 4:00 ET

Beavers (+) over Ducks- it has been a long time since the 'Civil War' has been played by two sub-.500 clubs. Both Oregon and State are 2-6 in the Pac-12 and coming off victories. The Ducks took down Utah 34-33 last week and knocked the Utes out of conference title contention while the Beavers ended a five-game losing streak against lowly Arizona 42-17. It has been a disappointing season to say the least for Oregon and even a win here won't help. Take OREGON STATE BEAVERS!

Miami at Los Angeles 4:05 ET

Rams (+) over Dolphins- Man, I've been sitting on this one since last Sunday night. First, I heard good news, 'that Miami was not returning to Florida” but were staying in California for the week. Now, that may seem like a good idea to you but for a football team from the east or south for that matter does not establish a good mindset. Think about it spending a week in the land of 'fruits and nuts' where everything is so laid-back you begin to think about La-La Land. Of course then came the bad news...a rookie starter. That for ions has been a 'kiss-of-death' to bettors. Okay, so Jared Goff gets the start against a team that has won their last fur. But, the Rams can play defense and together will rally around their new leader and pull out the victory! Take LOS ANGELES!

Southern California at UCLA 10:30 ET

Bruins (+) over Trojans- Now that the pressure is off USC as they crushed Washington as my Pac-12 game of the Year 26-13 (as a 8-point dog) they think that I will give them a pass this week against their cross-town rivals...nope can't do it! Even though UCLA is among the worst in rushing (127 out of 128) this is one of those games (yes, one of those games) where you do throw out their records. But, there are plenty of trends on the Bruins sideline, they are 10-2 ATS at the Rose Bowl when the Trojans enter after a win and any team that defeats a 9-0 or better team is 8-24 ATS the following week. Because if you did you could never play the Bruins. But, I will hold me nose and take UCLA!