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Date	Match Up	Rating	Score	Result	Profit	Lead Time	Analysis
11-12-17	Patriots v. Broncos UNDER 46.5		41-16	Loss	-110	103 h 9 m	Show
The Patriots have more trouble against the Broncos, especially playing in Denver, than they do against any other defense. The Patriots have played three times in Denver during the past two seasons and been held to an average of 19.3 points. The Broncos rank in the top-five defensively in fewest yards per game, run defense and pass defense. The prideful Broncos were embarrassed, 51-23, by the Eagles in Philadelphia this past Sunday. That was their third straight road game. Despite that lopsided loss, the Broncos defense still may have the most talent and savvy of any defense in the league. They'll be out to redeem themselves against this hated conference rival. The Patriots are likely to be down one of their better wide receivers with Chris Hogan nursing a shoulder injury. Remember the Patriots are missing Julian Edelman, too. The Patriots' offense has been going downhill averaging 21.8 points a game during their last four games after averaging 32.5 points in their first four games. The flip side is the Patriots' defense is much improved. Since Bill Belichick simplified defensive roles, the Patriots have given up just 12.7 points per game during their last four games. Belichick shouldn't have to game plan too hard facing Brock Osweiler, who has 22 turnovers in 17 starts, but he's had extra prep time anyways with the Patriots being idle last week. Poor quarterbacking is killing the Broncos. If not for two touchdowns in garbage time against the Eagles, one of which was scored by the defense, the Broncos would have scored fewer than 20 points for the sixth consecutive time.
11-12-17	Edmonton -140 v. Winnipeg		39-32	Win	100	77 h 5 m	Show
Matt Nichols is going to play for Winnipeg, but Edmonton has the momentum. The Eskimos have won five in a row, covering four of the five. This streak happen to coincide with the acquistion of running back C.J. Gable giving Mike Reilly another key weapon. Reilly has had another big year throwing for 5,830 yards, completing 68.3 percent of his throws and connecting on 30 touchdown passes to 13 interceptions. The defenses are fairly even, but Nichols may not be at full strength and the Blue Bombers went cold without him failing to score a touchdown in their last two games. Nichols hasn't played a full start-to-finish game in three weeks. He suffered a lower body injury in the first quarter against British Columbia back on Oct. 28. The Eskimos hold an important kicking edge with Sean Whyte over Justin Medlock. Winnipeg hasn't won a playoff game since 2011.
11-12-17	Heat v. Pistons -3	Top	103-112	Win	100	11 h 47 m	Show
Playing in their new Little Caesars Arena sure agrees with the Pistons. And why not? The new downtown arena is easier for their fans and gives Detroit an improved home-court edge. The Pistons have played well this season, especially at home going 6-1 at Little Caesars Arena. The Pistons have been home for nine days. They catch the Heat on the finale of a six-game, 10-day road swing. Miami is fat and happy winning three of their last four. The Heat's last two victories were by double-digits against the struggling offensively-challenged Jazz and bottom-feeder Suns. Now the Heat play an Eastern Conference foe, one that has the second-best conference record at 9-3. MIami is 0-6-1 ATS in its last seven games versus Eastern opponents and has failed to cover in five of its last six road games against the Pistons. Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson are having nice seasons for the Pistons. This could be Drummond's best all-around season. He's leading the NBA in rebounding. The Pistons should be motivated to close their homestand with a victory as nine of their next 11 games are on the road.
11-12-17	Chargers +4 v. Jaguars		17-20	Win	100	93 h 10 m	Show
Jacksonville is improved, but not enough to be laying more than a field goal to a decent Chargers squad that has won three of their last four with the lone defeat during this span coming to the Patriots. The Jaguars have a minimal home field edge. This is an early start and a long road trip for LA. But the Chargers had a bye last week so there should not be a fatigue factor. Philip Rivers not only gives LA a huge QB edge, but he has the savvy to know how to attack a talented Jacksonville defense. Rivers can move the ball with throws to Keenan Allen in the slot and Melvin Gordon out of the backfield. The Chargers finally have their No. 1 draft pick, wide receiver Mike Williams, ready to contribute. The Chargers defense has been playing well giving up just 37 points during their last three games and gets back linebacker Denzel Perryman from injured reserve. The Jaguars have a limited offense and Blake Bortles is turnover-prone.
11-12-17	Packers +6 v. Bears	Top	23-16	Win	100	27 h 19 m	Show
Green Bay has beaten Chicago in 13 of the last 15 meetings. The Packers were 7 1/2-point favorites in Week 4 when they rolled past the Bears, 35-14. But now the spread has swung two touchdowns the other way with Aaron Rodgers out. It's too much of an ajustment. The Packers are better than they showed this past Monday night and the Bears aren't good enough to lay this many points. Sure Brent Hundley is going through growing pains filling in for Rodgers. But so is Bears rookie quarterback Mich Trubisky, who will be making only his fifth start. The Packers have far better receiving weapons than the Bears. Trubisky just lost his security blankett, too, with tight end Zach Miller suffering a serious leg injury. Trubisky is a game manager and game managers operating an ultra-conservative offense behind a defensive-minded coach, John Fox, aren't a team to back at this price. The Packers pulled in ranks after releasing distractful Martellus Bennett. Look for the unified, prideful Packers to beat the Bears here.
11-12-17	Jets v. Bucs +2.5		10-15	Win	100	27 h 16 m	Show
The Jets have no business laying points on the road where they are 1-3 SU and ATS. New York's lone road win was a fluke against the Browns. The Jets were totally outplayed and outgained by 207 yards. They won because of rookie QB DeShone Kizer's turnovers. Ryan Fitzpatrick certainly is no rookie. He's played well when he's replaced Jameis Winston this season and will be highly motivated going against the last team he played for before coming to Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers won't have suspended Mike Evans, but Fitzpatrick still has other weapons, including underrated tight end Cameron Brate. Fitzpatrick plays best against man coverage, which is the Jets' preferred style. There's a chance, too, the Jets could be missing their top cornerback, Morris Claiborne. The Jets won't have their second-best wideout, suspended Jeremy Kerley, and might also be without defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson. The Buccaneers have received good news on the injury front. They get back their best cornerback, Brent Grimes, and could have a healthy offensive line. The Jets are one of the few teams who haven't had their bye yet. That comes next week. So their focus may be off.
11-12-17	Vikings v. Redskins OVER 40.5		38-30	Win	100	27 h 13 m	Show
The combination of Kirk Cousins and a mediocre Washington defense makes the Redskins a very good Over team. The proof is in the record: 22 Overs in Washington's past 29 games. I see that trend continuing here. The Redskins are expected to get back some of their injured offense linemen along with wide receiver Jamison Crowder and possibly star tight end Jordan Reed. Minnesota has a very good defense - hence the low total. But Cousins can attack the Vikings with quick, short passes. He has the personnel and astute coaching from Jay Gruden to accomplish this. There may not be a more dangerous pass-catching running back than Chris Thompson. I expect the Vikings to put up their share of points, too. Case Keenum is playing to keep his starting position with Teddy Bridgewater back from injury. The Redskins are vulnerable to the Vikings' ground attack and tight end Kyle Rudolph. Already down two key run-stuffers with lineman Jonathan Allen and inside linebacker Mason Foster out, the Redskins may be msising their best linebacker, Zach Brown. He missed practice because of an ankle injury. The Vikings rank in the top 10 in rushing. The Redskins have been gashed on the ground the past two weeks by the Seahawks - who are not a good running team - and the Cowboys surrendering an average of 158.5 yards rushing to those two teams.
11-11-17	Cavs -5.5 v. Mavs		111-104	Win	100	15 h 13 m	Show
At 5-7, the Cavaliers are the most disappointing team in the NBA. Cleveland is in stop-the-pain mode having lost six of its last eight. Now they get to visit the doctor and get well - playing Dallas. The Mavericks are just 2-10, taking their place now among the five-worst teams in the NBA. Dallas, though, is coming off a stunning road victory against the Wizards this past Tuesday. The Cavaliers' major problem is lack of defense. Cleveland has surrendered at least 112 points in 10 consecutive games. But now the Cavaliers draw the Mavericks, one of four teams in the NBA averaging less than triple-digits. Dallas is 1-5 at home. Among the Mavericks' home losses were defeats to the Hawks and Kings. While Dirk Nowitzki closes out his career in quiet fashion - averaging 10.2 points a game and shooting 40.2 percent from the floor - LeBron James is as strong as ever. James is averaging monster numbers across the board: 29.3 points, 60.1 percent shooting, 8.9 assists and seven rebounds. James will never forget Nowitizki and Dallas beating his Miami team in the NBA 2011 championships series. The Cavaliers also won't forget losing to the Mavericks in Dallas last Jan. 30 during their previous meeting. Cleveland is idle on Sunday so a full effort should be forthcoming.
11-11-17	Notre Dame v. Miami-FL UNDER 59.5		8-41	Win	100	28 h 20 m	Show
It's easy to focus on these team's skill position stars. I choose, though, to put more credence on the defenses. They are both outstanding. Notre Dame ranks 17th in scoring defense giving up 18.4 points a game. They've held all but one of their nine opponents to 20 points or less. The Irish have a very strong run defense. Notre Dame, however, ranks 90th in pass defense. I'm not a fan of Miami QB Malik Rosier, though. He's completed less than 50 percent of his throws in his past two games and been picked off four times. Notre Dame has forced at least one turnover in each of its games. The Hurricanes are holding opponents to only 17.6 points a game, which is 12th-best in the nation. Only one of their last six foes have scored more than 20 points. The Hurricanes held Virgina Tech to 10 points last week. The opportunistic Hurricanes defense has the speed and muscle to slow down Notre Dame's ground attack. Miami has forced 20 turnovers and ranks fourth in the country in takeaways/giveaways.
11-11-17	Alabama v. Mississippi State UNDER 51	Top	31-24	Loss	-110	32 h 35 m	Show
Alabama gives up 9.8 points per game and 243.8 yards a game. That ranks first and second, respectively, in the nation. Those are strong indicators that the Crimson Tide has the best defense in the country. Mississippi State ranks seventh in the nation in total defense giving up just 259.3 yards a game. Both teams stay on the ground a lot - above 62 percent - and play at a slow tempo. These are big pluses for the Under. The Under has cashed the past eight times the teams have played in Mississippi.
11-11-17	Panthers v. Devils OVER 6		1-2	Loss	-101	15 h 15 m	Show
These are a pair of young teams, who like to play at a fast, up-tempo pace. Their Over the total mark reflects that. Florida has gone Over in 11 of its last 15 games, while the Devils are 11-5-2 to the Over in their last 18 games going 9-2 to the Over when having one day's rest between games. Oh, yes, Florida doesn't play much defense. The Panthers give up the second-most goals and shots per game. Only twice in their last 12 games have they permitted fewer than three goals per game. The Panthers, though, have a top-five offense. New Jersey ranks eighth in goals scored but gives up the third-most shots in the league. The Devils have allowed an average of four goals per game during their last four games, all losses. The Devils know the best way to end their losing skid is by being aggressive offensively. There's a good chance the Devils could draw Florida backup goalie James Reimer, who isn't very good. Florida did play well defensively in a 4-1 road win against the Sabres last night. I don't see the Panthers playing a second straight strong game on defense. The Over has cashed six of the last seven times in the following game after Florida held an opponent to two goals or less.
11-11-17	Kansas v. Texas UNDER 56		27-42	Loss	-110	26 h 8 m	Show
Rather than trying to make Kansas work on the road, or lay a monster number with offensive-challenged Texas, the way to go in this matchup is Under the total. Neither first-string quarterback may start due to injuries. I've really liked Texas' defense ever since Week 2. Since that time, the Longhorns have yielded an average of only 17.6 points a game. They have the sixth-best third-down defense in the nation. Kansas has managed only two touchdowns in its last four games. Texas, though, isn't exactly a powerhouse on offense. If you discount the 38 points the Longhorns scored against Baylor, they would be averaging 13.6 points in their last three games.
11-11-17	Georgia State v. Texas State UNDER 47		33-30	Loss	-110	116 h 16 m	Show
Usually you think offense when it comes to the Sun Belt Conference. Not with these two teams, though. Georgia State ranks 116th in scoring at 20.5 points a game. Texas State is even worse at 17.3 points per game. Expect defense to rule here as it's not a fluke the Under has cashed 20 of the last 26 times Georgia State has played, including eight of the past 10 road games. The Panthers have a top-50 defense. They rank in the top three in the conference in scoring defense, total defense and rush defense. Texas State also has a very strong run defense. The under has cashed in 11 of the Bobcats' last 15 games.
11-11-17	UL-Lafayette +20 v. Ole Miss		22-50	Loss	-110	20 h 6 m	Show
UL-Lafayette has been a quality Sun Belt Conference team under Mark Hudspeth going to a bowl game during five of his six seasons, including last season. The Ragin' Cajuns are in the bowl hunt again this season and should be the more motivated and fresher team. Lafayette averages nearly 30 points a game. The Ragin' Cajuns can take advantage of a Mississippi defense surrendering an average of nearly 42 points during their last six games. The Ragin' Cajuns should have a freshness, too, since they just had a bye two weeks ago. That was already their second bye of the season. Mississippi, on the other hand, will be playing for the seventh straight week. The Rebels are worn down and won't be taking this non-conference foe that serious with bigger games on deck - hosting Texas A&M next week and then concluding the regular season with their annual in-state rival Mississippi State on Thanksgiving.
11-10-17	Heat v. Jazz -145		84-74	Loss	-145	19 h 24 m	Show
This is the Jazz's biggest game of the young season. Utah is in circle-the-wagons mode with a three-game losing streak, two of which have come at home. The Jazz were beaten by the 76ers in their last game this past Tuesday at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Utah had not lost to Philadelphia at home since 2005 when the 76ers had Allen Iverson. Utah has been solid as home chalk this season - 4-1 against the spread in that role - and I see the Jazz coming through here. Quin Snyder has had two full days to prepare Utah for this matchup. The Jazz certainly won't lack motivation. The Jazz still retain their excellent defense. Only three teams give up fewer points per game than Utah. Miami is off a satisfying 11-point win at Phoenix on Wednesday. This marks the Heat's fifth road game in eight days. So they carry a heavy fatigue rating, which could lead to sloppy play. The Heat entered that matchup against the Suns ranked 28th in turnovers so they are vulnerable to Utah's defensive pressure.
11-10-17	Panthers v. Sabres OVER 5.5		4-1	Loss	-110	16 h 59 m	Show
It's not a fluke that Florida has gone Over in 11 of its last 14 games. The Panthers score the sixth-most goals per game in the NHL, but have the worst defense in the league. Florida ranks in the bottom two in goals allowed, shots on goals and power play goals. The Panthers are giving up an average of 4.7 goals in their last seven games. Florida just lost 3-1 to the weak-scoring Hurricanes on Tuesday. Carolina rattled off 49 shots in that game. Opponents have managed at least 38 shots on goal against the Panthers in the last seven games. Buffalo is averaging three goals per game during its last three games going against better defenses than Florida's. Evander Kane is enjoying a fine season for the Sabres and Jack Eichel has superstar potential. So the Sabres have weapons. The Sabres also remain without their top defenseman as Rasmus Ristolainen is out with an upper-body injury.
11-10-17	Texas A&M v. West Virginia -6	Top	88-65	Loss	-115	11 h 43 m	Show
West Virginia is one of the best teams in the country. The Mountaineers won 28 games last season reaching the Sweet 16. West Virginia defeated five ranked teams, including second-ranked Kansas. Texas A&M finished 16-15 last season and didn't play in a postseason tournament. The Aggies are projected to be much improved this season even though they will be breaking in four new starters. The Aggies are young and not familiar with each other at this beginning stage. This is a rough way for the Aggies to begin the season. The Aggies also are going to be without Robert Williams, their best player, and point guard JJ Caldwell. Both are suspended. The Aggies are going to have problems with West Virginia's unique press especially so without their point guard, this being the first game and being unfamiliar with the Mountaineers.
11-09-17	Canucks v. Ducks UNDER 5.5		1-4	Win	100	14 h 6 m	Show
Vancouver has allowed only 16 goals during regulation in its last nine games. The Canucks face a depleted Ducks team that not only is without Ryan Getzlaf, but who lost second-leading scorer Ondrej Kase on Tuesday after he was knocked out. The Ducks rank 30th in power play goals. The Canucks have improved their offense, but they were the second-lowest scoring team in the NHL last season. This is an emotional game for the Ducks. Not only are they out to snap a four-game losing streak, but they'll have veteran Ryan Miller in net. Miller played the previous three seasons for the Canucks where he posted a 2.69 GAA and .914 save perecentage. Miller was superb in his last start making 44 saves in a 2-1 shootout loss this past Saturday at San Jose. Only once in the last seven meetings between these two teams in Anaheim has the total gone Over.
11-09-17	Seahawks -5.5 v. Cardinals	Top	22-16	Win	100	36 h 39 m	Show
Seattle isn't as good as it has been the past few years. Attrition has taken a toll on the Seahawks' defense. But the Seahawks are still a well above team. Arizona is a bottom feeder with Drew Stanton behind center. If the Seahawks didn't blow Sunday's game to the Redskins, this line would look much higher. Seattle was better than Washington, though, outgaining the Redskins by nearly 200 yards. The Seahawks couldn't overcome a franchise-record 16 penalties and Blair Walsh missing three field goals. Walsh was 12 of 13 in field goals prior to that game. The Seahawks are taking heavy criticism for that bad disappointing performance. They are in bounce back mold and I fully expect that to happen. Russell Wilson is having a huge season. Paul Richardson is having a breakout season joining Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett and Jimmy Graham to provide strong receivers for Wilson. Seattle's offensive line is upgrade with the addition of Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown. Thomas Rawls is healthy giving Seattle its best running back option. Arizona's defense is merely average. During their past four games, the Cardinals have gone against three good passing teams - the Eagles, Rams and Buccaneers. The Cardinals allowed an average of 419 yards through the air against those foes. Arizona has recovered only one fumble on the season and is tied for 25th in takeaways/giveaways at minus 4. The Cardinals' offensive line has started to play better. However, the Cardinals' attack now consists of just ancient Adrian Peterson running and Larry Fitzgerald catching short passes. Stanton is an immobile stiff, who can't hurt a defense with downfield passes. Peterson is 32, a senior citizen by running back age. He just ran a career-high 37 times this past Sunday. Now he's playing on a short week. His legs won't be there. The Seahawks aren't going to have a problem shutting down the Cardinals' scaled-back, limited attack and Arizona's defense isn't strong enough to contain Wilson and his weapons.
11-09-17	Pelicans v. Raptors -4.5		118-122	Loss	-110	27 h 50 m	Show
Even though Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins are both playing great, the Pelicans are weak at the wings and lack a good bench. They also have played an easy schedule. New Orleans is riding a three-game winning streak. All of those victories have been on the road. But those wins have come against the Mavericks, Bulls and Pacers. This marks the end of the Pelicans' four-game, seven day road swing. Their intensity could be down after already going 3-0 during the first three legs of the trip. The Pelicans' lone win against a quality opponent this season was against the struggling Cavaliers. New Orleans has not beaten an above .500 team all season. Toronto is 6-4, but battle tested with three of its defeats occurring to the Warriors, Spurs and Nuggets on the road. The Raptors' other loss was to the Wizards in their first game back at home following a six-game road trip. The Raptors have been home now for five days and are healthy with Serge Ibaka and Jonus Valanciunas back in the lineup. Valanciunas is playing well and can factor against Davis and Cousins. The Pelicans are going to have matchup problems at the wing against All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who is averaging 29 points in his last three games. Unlike New Orleans, Toronto should have its full intensity after almost blowing a big lead in a victory against the Bulls on Tuesday. The Raptors don't play again until Sunday when they begin a three-game road trip so a full effort should be there. The Raptors have swept the Pelicans each of the past two seasons.
11-08-17	Bruins v. Rangers -135		2-4	Win	100	13 h 54 m	Show
It's time to trust the Rangers. The Rangers had a poor start but have now reached .500 going 6-2-2 in their last 10 games. The spot is ripe for the Rangers to win their fifth straight game hosting an extremely banged-up Bruins squad. Boston is coming off an impressive 5-3 home win against the Wild on Monday. The Bruins accomplished this without Brad Marchand, David Krejci, David Backes and Noel Acciari. None of those players will be in action today. The Rangers have picked up their scoring averaging 4.5 goals in their last six games. Bruins goalie Tukka Rask has yet to win in three road games this season. Boston had managed two or fewer goals in four of their last five games until beating Minnesota.
11-08-17	Knicks v. Magic UNDER 214	Top	99-112	Win	100	15 h 25 m	Show
Orlando really needs this game. The Magic have dropped two straight home games. This is the finale of their three-game homestand. After this matchup, the Magic take off to the West for consecutive road games against the Suns, Nuggets, Warriors and Trail Blazers. That's three likely losses there. So the Magic should play with lots of intensity. The Magic are in a good spot here drawing the Knicks, who will be playing for the third time in four days and without rest following a hard-fought 118-113 home win against the Hornets Tuesday night. The problem for the Magic is a cluster injury problem at point guard. Elfrid Payton isn't likely to play after feeling continued soreness and tightness in his strained left hamstring during Tuesday's practice. Second-string point guard D.J. Augustin already has been ruled out with a hamstring injury. That leaves reserve Shelvin Mack as the only healthy point guard available. Mack is a 39 percent shooter from the floor and not starter-caliber. Orlando has had to play with both Payton and Augustin out the past two games. The results were a two-game average of just 85.5 points in losses to the Bulls and Celtics. This wasn't just cold shooting and good defense by the opposition. The Magic's ofense was out of rhythm. They looked nothing like the team that had put 113 or more points during their first seven games. Not only do the Knicks carry a heavy fatigue rating, but this is their lone road matchup during a nine-game span. So the Knicks are likely to slow down the game looking to exploit 7-foot-3 inch Kristaps Porzingis' height advanatage against Aaron Gordon inside.
11-08-17	Toledo v. Ohio OVER 62.5	Top	10-38	Loss	-102	5 h 58 m	Show
Defense is going to take a backseat in this matchup. The Over has cashed in eight of Ohio's last 10 games. It's no surprise considering the Bobcats average 41.2 points a game. They've scored 45 or more points in their last three games. Toledo featurs Logan Woodside, probably the best quarterback in the MAC. The Rockets average 39 points a game and are sixth in the nation in yards per game at 519.7. This is going to be a back-and-forth scoring game with plenty of fireworks.
11-07-17	Grizzlies +3.5 v. Blazers		98-97	Win	100	13 h 50 m	Show
Portland moved its record to 6-4 after beating Oklahoma City, 103-99, at home on Sunday. That was the Trail Blazers' first victory against a quality opponent. But just when you begin to believe the Trail Blazers are indeed a good team they disappoint. The Trail Blazers are now trying to win three in a row for the first time this season. Maybe they can defeat Memphis. But I'll take this many points to find out as I regard these teams as even and given Portland's below-the-radar big men injuries this becomes even a tougher matchup for the Trail Blazers. The Grizzlies are as rugged and physical as ever. They rank No. 3 defensively and have a much stronger bench than the Trail Blazers. Marc Gasol and Mike Conley are having big seasons. The Trail Blazers are going to have to compete on the boards against the Grizzlies minus injured power forward Al-Farouq Aminu and backup center Meyers Leonard. Memphis defeated the Clippers, 113-104 on Saturday, but then came up flat against the Lakers on Sunday losing 107-102 after a gallant comeback failed. So the Grizzlies should be highly focused for this game. Portland is a bit fat and happy having posted narrow home victories against the Lakers, 113-110, on Thursday and Thunder on Sunday. Not only did the Grizzlies defeat the Clippers, but they also have beaten the Warriors and Rockets twice. They are battle tested. Portland's victories have been against the Suns twice, Pacers, Lakers and Pelicans, who didn't have Anthony Davis, besides the Thunder win. So this is another step up game for the Trail Blazers.
11-07-17	Bowling Green v. Buffalo OVER 55	Top	28-38	Win	100	29 h 52 m	Show
Bowling Green is giving up 35.4 points a game. Buffalo can take advantage with Tyree Jackson throwing to Anthony Johnson, who leads the MAC with 888 receiving yards. Jackson is coming off an impressive game where he had 34 completions for 313 yards. The Falcons should contribute their share of points against a Buffalo defense that ranks 115th in run defense and has several injuries. Both teams play at a fast pace, too, which is important when going Over. Update: The total took off shortly after this play was released. I still like it to go Over, but much of the value is gone making it a smaller unit play.
11-07-17	Panthers v. Hurricanes OVER 5.5		1-3	Loss	-117	14 h 33 m	Show
The high-scoring, but defensively challenged Panthers are nearly becoming an Over auto-play when their total opens below 6. That's the case here against Carolina. Florida ranks fourth in goals per game at 3.6. The Panthers are averaging 4.4 goals during their past five games. They should reach their average against the Hurricanes' average defense. However, the Panthers' defense gives back everything. Florida yields the most goals and shots per goal in the league. The Panthers also are second-to-last in penalty killing. The Hurricanes' below average offense should fare well here against such a weak defense. Florida has surrendered 20 goals in its last three games. Carolina has scored three or more goals in three of its last five games.
11-06-17	Red Wings v. Canucks UNDER 5.5		3-2	Win	100	8 h 45 m	Show
Red Wings at Canucks Under 5 1/2 minus $1.25 These are two defensive minded teams with Vancouver ranking 22nd in scoring and Detroit 23rd. The Canucks give up the third-fewest goals, while the Red Wings surrender the eighth-fewest goals. I like both goalies, Jimmy Howard for the Red Wings and Jacob Markstrom for the Canucks. The Red Wings are coming off a highly impressive 4-0 road victory against Edmonton. That was the Red Wings' fifth straight Under game on the road. I see the Red Wings playing a tight checking, conservative game here following that victory in an obvious letdown spot. I don't feel comfortable, though, laying the price with Vancouver because of its offense. If you discount the Canucks' six-goal explosion against the Capitals, they have scored six goals in their last four games. The Canucks beat the Penguins, 4-2, at home Saturday. However, they only had 21 shots on goal.
11-06-17	Lions v. Packers +3	Top	30-17	Loss	-120	15 h 28 m	Show
Detroit a road favorite against the Packers at Lambeau Field where the Lions have lost nine of the past 10 times? It's true. That's what happens when Aaron Rodgers is out. Is this justified? The answer is no on many counts. Let's begin with the fact that Detroit is just a mediocre team. Much is being made of Green Bay having lost two in a row. Well the Lions have dropped three straight - home to the Panthers, at the Saints and home to the Steelers. The Lions are 3-4 with two of those victories coming against the Cardinals and Giants during the first two weeks of the season. The Lions can't run the ball - rushing for more than 96 yards just once - and have a below average defense ranking 23rd in points allowed and 22nd in yards given up. The Lions are without their best pass rusher, Kerry Hyder, and top run-defender, Haloti Ngata. Winning a division road game without a good running attack and defense is extremely difficult unless you have a superstar quarterback. Matthew Stafford is above average. He's not elite, though. The situation is against the Lions. The Packers desperately needed a bye to regroup. They've had two weeks to game plan and get healthy. Green Bay's offensive line is expected to be at full strength. Green Bay is 9-2 following a bye under Mike McCarthy. None of those losses came at home. The Packers have owned the Lions through the years winning 16 of the past 20 meetings. It's going to be cold. The Lions have become a warm weather team playing in a dome. All of this, though, is secondary to how Brett Hundley performs. This is the key. I say Hundley comes through here. Hundley was maybe the best quarterback in the league during preseason. OK, that was preseason facing vanilla defenses and backups. But he did display talent both with his arm and running ability. Now many are down on Hundley because of poor performances against the Vikings - when he suddenly was thrust into the game following Rodgers' broken collarbone - and versus the Saints. Those two teams have a combined record of 12-4 and rank third and 10th, respectively, in fewest points allowed per game. Their defenses are far superior to Detroit's defense. The Saints are giving up an average of 13 points during their last three games. This will be Hundley's second start. McCarthy and his ace offensive staff have had 15 days to work with Hundley and game plan for this matchup. Hundley not only will be fully assimilated into the offense, but adjustments will be made that feed into Hundley's strengths such as read-option plays. As added bonuses, Hundley has a healthy offensive line - something he wasn't close to having before - and the emergence of Aaron Jones has given Green Bay a respectable ground game. The Packers have had two of their three best rushing games during their last three games because of Jones, who has run for 413 yards and three touchdowns during this span. The Lions probably will try to take away Jones by putting an extra defender in the box forcing Hundley to beat them. Hundley can do that with one of the deepest receiving groups in the NFL headed by Jordy Nelson, Davonte Adams and Randall Cobb. No Hundley isn't close to being Rodgers. But he has a balanced attack behind him, should be coached up with ample prep time and with a healthy offensive line that should control the line of scrimmage against a mediocre defense playing on the road.
11-05-17	Devils v. Flames OVER 5.5		4-5	Win	100	13 h 36 m	Show
The much improved Devils are all about speed, youth and raw talent. It's helped them go Over eight of 11 times this season when the total has been either 5 1/2 or 6. New Jersey catches a break in that the Flames aren't likely to have defenseman Travis Hamonic, who was injured during practice yesterday. He was logging the third-most ice time for the Flames, who are going to have to have new defensive pairings because of Harmonic's expected absence. The Flames are one of the weakest offensive teams in the NHL. But they draw Devils backup goalie Keith Kinkaid. Calgary coach Glen Gulutzan said his team will have to skate with the up-tempo Devils rather than go into a defensive shell. "We can play fast ourselves," Gulutzan was quoted as saying, "we're going to have to do that."
11-05-17	Raiders v. Dolphins OVER 44		27-24	Win	100	84 h 60 m	Show
The Raiders are going to put up their share of points with Derek Carr, Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree working against a vulnerable Miami defensive back seven. I'm not a fan of the Dolphins secondary and their linebackers are more dirty than good. The key question is will the Dolphins come up with their share of points to push this Over? Miami ranks last in the NFL in scoring and yards per game. I believe Miami will. Both Jay Cutler and Davante Parker return to the lineup from injuries. Adam Gase is a sharp offensive coach. The Dolphins dealt Jay Ajayi this week. That changes the dynamics of their offense. I see the Dolphins throwing more than usual against the Raiders, who rank 26th in pass defense and are the only team in the NFL not to have an interception. Ajayi was capable of 200-yard rushing games, but he wasn't consistent. The Dolphins have more spreed in their backfield now and their running backs are better pass catchers than Ajayi.
11-05-17	Jazz v. Rockets OVER 202		110-137	Win	100	14 h 47 m	Show
The Houston Rockets are averaging 107.2 points per game this season after averaging an NBA second-best 115.3 points last season. What gives? The Rockets haven't been as up-tempo and their 3-point shots haven't been dropping like last season. They rate 28th in 3-point accuracy compared to 15th last year while putting up the most 3-point shots. Things are beginning to change for the Rockets, however. Houston is coming off a 119-97 road win against the Knicks on Wednesday and a 119-104 road victory against the Hawks Friday. The key to these higher point totals is more fast-break points. Houston has averaged 17.5 fast break points in these past two games. That would rank second in the league if computed for a full season. Previous to these two contests, the Rockets ranked 23rd in fast break points at 7.5. The Rockets should start improving their 3-point shooting, too, with Trevor Ariza getting the rust off after being out. The Jazz are a top-two defensive team unlike the Knicks and Hawks. But the Rockets are looking to continue to push pace against Utah, which gives up an average of 99.6 points a game on the road. Utah has reached triple digits in its last three games. Rookie Donovan Mitchell has been a below-the-radar scorer putting up at least 22 points in three of his past four games. Ricky Rubio is a better Over point guard than George Hill was for Utah last season and Rodney Hood is back healthy.
11-05-17	Redskins v. Seahawks -7	Top	17-14	Loss	-110	145 h 32 m	Show
Seattle's defense is down a notch from its elite status of the past few seasons. The Seahawks can't run the ball either unless it's Russell Wilson taking off on a scramble. But the Seahawks still will beat the Redskins by more than a touchdown being at home and given all of Washington's injuries on both sides of the ball. Seattle's defense still is well above average. The Redskins can't compete against it on the road with a cluster injury problem in their offensive line, a weak ground attack and two of their three tight ends injured, including Jordan Reed. There's a chance Washington could be minus four starting offensive linemen plus their top reserve lineman. Wilson is playing at the highest level. His receivers are stepping up especially Paul Richardson. Jimmy Graham is healthier and becoming a factor. The Redskins have key defensive injuries. They are without their best run stuffer, Jonathan Allen. They also are down linebacker Mason Foster and maybe their second-best cornerback, Bashaud Breeland. Special teams play has become an issue, too, for the Redskins.
11-05-17	Broncos +8 v. Eagles		23-51	Loss	-110	28 h 12 m	Show
This is last stand time for the 3-4 Broncos. They have the right personnel to upset the Eagles, who are flying high at 7-1 and due to crash. Philadelphia may take this one for granted with the Broncos making the decision to start Brock Osweiler. The Eagles also have a much bigger game on deck next Sunday - a division game against the Cowboys. The Broncos rank ninth in rushing. They are fourth in time of possession. They can stay on the ground with a trio of decent running backs in C.J. Anderson, Jamaal Charles and Devontae Booker. This would limit Osweiler's exposure. Osweiler is helped by getting back wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders. The Eagles rank 27th in pass defense. Carson Wentz had a monster October throwing a franchise-best 14 TD passes. Wentz, though, is just a second-year QB. He can be loose with the ball and is going against the toughest defense he's faced all season. Denver gives up the fewest yards per game and second-fewest rushing yards per game. The Broncos' cornerbacks are so good they can cover one-on-one and Von Miller is a top edge pass rusher. The Eagles are without their No. 1 offensive lineman, Jason Peters.
11-05-17	Rams v. Giants OVER 42		51-17	Win	100	28 h 10 m	Show
This total is too low for a Rams game. The Rams average 30.3 points a game, second-highest in the league. They draw the Giants without four defensive starters, including star cornerback Janoris Jenkins, pass rusher Olivier Vernon and middle linebacker B.J. Goodson. The Giants have given up 100 yards rushing in six of their last seven games. They are going to have problems controlling Todd Gurley, who ranks fifth in the NFL in rushing. Jared Goff has played better away from home with a road touchdown-to-interception ratio of six-to-zero. New York should contribute its share of points with two weeks to prepare and facing a mediocre Rams defense.
11-04-17	Oregon v. Washington OVER 52.5		3-38	Loss	-120	31 h 37 m	Show
These teams combined for 91 points in last season's game, which Washington won, 70-21. Now I doubt the Huskies put up 70 points again, but I do see these teams going above this total. Washington's defense is tough especially at home. But I like the way Oregon ran the ball last week. The Ducks average 35.6 points per game. The Huskies are a top-20 scoring team, averaging nearly 40 points a game. They have scored at least 37 points in six of their eight games and 30 or more in all but one of their games.
11-04-17	Virginia Tech v. Miami-FL UNDER 50	Top	10-28	Win	100	61 h 3 m	Show
It's simple to understand why Miami has gone under in its last five games and why Virginia Tech has gone under in four of its past five games. Both teams have tremendous defenses. Virginia Tech has held its last three foes - Boston College, North Carolina and Duke - to a combined 20 points The Hokies are the second-stingiest defense in the country holding opponents to 11.5 points a game. The Hokies rate in the top six in in fewest first downs allowed and third-down conversations. Miami is 119th out of 130 schools in third down conversions. The Hurricanes are no slouch defensively either. with a top-notch secondary and ranking 18th in the country in yards per play. I see both offenses struggling. Virginia Tech has a mediocre ground attack. None of the Hokies' running backs has had a 100-yard rushing game this season. Freshman QB Josh Jackson has played well, but this will be the best secondary he's faced all season. Only two teams have held quarterbacks to a lower passer rating than the Hurricanes. Miami is coming off a terrible offensive performance against North Carolina. The Hurricanes were lucky to win, 24-19. Quarterback Malik Rosier injured his shoulder in that game, but is expected to start. Virginia Tech has held opposing quarterbacks to the seventh-lowest passer rating. Miami hasn't scored more than 27 points in any of its last four games.The under has cashed six of the last seven times Miami has hosted Virginia Tech. The Hurricanes rushed for a season-low 59 yards against North Carolina. Virginia Tech has the top run defense in the ACC. The under has been a proven money-maker in Virginia Tech conference and road games. The under has cashed 21 of the last 30 times in Virginia Tech's conference games and is 8-3 in the Hokies' past 11 away contests. There's also a chance of rain for this matchup.
11-04-17	Mavs +13.5 v. Wolves		99-112	Win	100	11 h 27 m	Show
Dallas could be among the five worst teams in the NBA. But this spots sets up well for the Mavericks. Minnesota is fat and happy riding a three-game winning streak. The Timberwolves' last two victories were on the road against the Heat in overtime and Pelicans. Minnesota hosts Charlotte on Sunday. All of the Timberwolves' victories have been close. Their biggest margin of victory is six points. Dallas is 1-9. The reality of being a lottery team is sinking in to the Mavericks, but they still have prideful veterans such as Dirk Nowitzki. Wesley Matthews and Harrison Barnes are solid pros. Dennis Smith Jr. brings high upside at point guard. The Mavericks lost 99-94 to New Orleans last night. Dallas was hurt by missing 25 of 34 shots from 3-point range. Matthews had an off-shooting night. Look for the Mavericks to shoot better as Minnesota ranks last in defensive efficiency and defensive field goal percentage.
11-04-17	LSU +21 v. Alabama		10-24	Win	100	83 h 49 m	Show
Yes, LSU has hit some serious speed bumps this season. But the Tigers went into their bye last week winning their last three games beating Florida on the road, Auburn and Mississippi on the road. LSU isn't in Alabama's class. That's a given. But three touchdowns in this rivalry series is too much. Alabama hasn't been this big of a favorite against LSU in close to 25 years. The Tigers have a healthy Derrius Guice to run the ball, rarely commit turnovers - just one in their last three games - and have a very strong pass rush. LSU has the athletes and pride to keep this close.
11-04-17	Texas +7 v. TCU		7-24	Loss	-115	28 h 3 m	Show
Tom Herman is a great underdog coach. I see the Longhorns, with their stingy defense, hanging in all the way against the Horned Frogs. Texas has held four of their Big 12 foes - Iowa State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Baylor - to its lowest scoring games of the season. The Longhorns handled Baker Mayfield, Mason Rudolph and Sam Darnold. They can take care of TCU QB Kenny Hill. TCU has been a big money-burner at home failing to cover 11 of the past 12 times.
11-04-17	UTSA v. Florida International UNDER 49.5		7-14	Win	100	125 h 43 m	Show
Don't be fooled by Florida International putting up 41 points against Marshall last Saturday. The Golden Panthers are not a good offensive team. Even with that showing they still on average 22 points and rank 81st in yards. San Antonio is a defensive minded team and its offense plays at a slow pace. The Roadrunners are giving up just 17.4 points per game. The under has cashed in seven of the Roadrunners last 10 games.
11-04-17	Golden Knights v. Senators UNDER 6		5-4	Loss	-105	10 h 37 m	Show
Las Vegas averages 2.4 goals on the road compared to 4.2 goals when playing at home. The Golden Knights also are not used to playing at such an early hour. The Golden Knights are down to fourth-string goalie Maxime Lagace because of injuries. Lagace, though, made 27 saves in Las Vegas' 2-1 loss to the Bruins Thursday. The Senators finally showed signs of getting their defense in order defeating Detroit, 3-1, on Thursday. Ottawa held the Red Wings to 25 shots.
11-03-17	Devils v. Oilers OVER 5.5		3-6	Win	100	16 h 14 m	Show
The Devils have had a complete makeover this season and it's helped them jump off to their best start ever. The transformation is from a tight defensive club into a wide open offensive team. It's helped talented Taylor Hall and some of his below-the-radar teammates thrive. It's also made for a cash cow betting Devils games Over. The Over has cashed in seven of New Jersey's last 10 games. All of those totals were lined at either 5 1/2 or 6. The Devils are averaging nearly four goals per game. They have the fifth-best power play unit and can exploit Edmonton's 31st-ranked penalty kill unit. The Oilers should come out fired-up, though, having dropped their last two games - both at home. Those losses were to the Penguins and Capitals. Edmonton managed just two goals in each of those games. It's ridiculous that the Oilers average just 2.2 goals per game when they have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The over has cashed in five of Edmonton's last six home contests. I'm going to ride the Devils' Over money-making machine and take that leap of faith that the underachieving Oilers offense awakens here fired up by two consecutive home losses. Getting a total of less than 6 in a Devils game this year has become a good value.
11-03-17	Hornets v. Spurs -3	Top	101-108	Win	100	14 h 55 m	Show
First the bad news. San Antonio has lost four in a row and won't have Kawhi Leonard, its best player. Now the good news. The Spurs competed well last night. Unfortunately for them they were up against the world champion Warriors, who were on their game. When Golden State is on its game no team can beat them. No team can really stay close either. The Spurs are extremely tough at home, continue to receive strong play from LaMarcus Aldridge and will be primed to stop the bleeding against Charlotte, a foe they have beaten the past 10 times at home. San Antonio still has a strong bench despite missing Leonard and Tony Parker. Aldridge was the only Spurs player to log more than 31 minutes last night. Aldridge gives San Antonio the best frontcourt player. He's having a strong season averaging 23.6 points and 8.6 rebounds. The loss to the Warriors was the first one at home for the Spurs. They are 2-1 at home with victories against Minnesota (107-99) and Toronto (101-97). Both of those teams are at least a level higher than the Hornets. Charlotte is coming off a 126-121 home win against Milwaukee two nights ago. That was the Hornets' worst defensive game of the year. They are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games. The Hornets are a borderline playoff team in the much weaker Eastern Conference. I don't see them hanging close to the Spurs, who are in full stop-the-pain mode.
11-03-17	Pelicans -4.5 v. Mavs		99-94	Win	100	14 h 50 m	Show
Dallas is one of the four worst teams in the NBA right now. The Mavericks are 1-8, their worst record since 1993-94. This proud franchise is in need of rebuild. The players know it. Rick Carlisle knows it. Mark Cuban knows it. All of the Mavericks' losses except one have been by five or more points. New Orleans is a serious playoff contender. No team can match the Pelicans' superstar Twin Towers of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. Both rank among the top-five in scoring and rebounding. The Pelicans are going to hurt the Mavericks inside a lot. Dallas is one of the poorer rebounding teams in the league. The Pelicans, though, have lost consecutive games falling to the much-improved Magic and star-studded Timberwolves. This is the first of four road games in a row for New Orleans. The Pelicans should be focused and play with a great sense of urgency. That should ensure a victory here because the talent gap is huge. Dirk Nowitzki doesn't have much left. Rookie Dennis Smith Jr. is the Mavericks' main man now and he's mistake-prone with bad shooting percentages. The Mavericks don't have the components to take advantage of the Pelicans' major weakness, which is turnovers. Dallas ranks 29th in defensive field goal percentage. This is a major drop in class for the Pelicans after games versus the Cavaliers, Magic and Timberwolves. New Orleans has a good history of taking care of business against bad teams when on the road. The Pelicans have covered eight of the last 10 away times they've met a foe with a sub .500 record at home.
11-02-17	Idaho +18 v. Troy	Top	21-24	Win	100	28 h 57 m	Show
Earlier this season, Troy became the first Sun Belt Conference team in history to crack The Associated Press Top 25. The Trojans acheived this by stunning LSU, 24-21, as a three-touchdown road 'dog on Sept. 30. The Trojans proceeded to lose their next game, 19-8, to South Alabama as 18-point home favorites. South Alabama is the one common foe Idaho and Troy have. The Vandals defeated South Alabama, 29-23, on the road. There are other reasons why I like the Vandals here in such a heavy underdog role. Situation, motivation, matchup analysis and line value all are handicapping factors. This is a dangerous spot for Troy. The Trojans celebrated their homecoming game with a 38-16 home victory against Georgia Southern this past Saturday. The win was significant because it marked the first time the Trojans have beat the Eagles since 1992. More important, it pushed the Trojans' record to 6-2 making them bowl eligible. It's a quick turnabout now for the Trojans playing on Thursday. You have to wonder how motivated they will be following that important victory? Idaho, though, won't have any problem getting up for this game. It's rare national exposure for the Vandals. They need to win three of their last four games to become bowl eligible. It's also the Vandals' last season playing in the FBS. They drop down to FCS next season as part of a cost-cutting decision. Studying the matchup, I find Idaho to be underrated while Troy is perhaps perceived higher than it really should be due to the LSU victory. The Trojans are 6-2, but just 2-6 against the spread (ATS). Troy has a solid defense, but its offense has regressed. The Trojans have been without their best runner, Jordan Chunn, the past two games. Idaho has the quarterback edge with Matt Linehan. He's a pro prospect and on track to become Idaho's all-time leading passer. Linehan has completed nearly 61 percent of his throws with a 14-to-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio. He's probably the best quarterback Troy has faced all season. Contrast Linehan with Troy quarterback Brandon Silvers, who has just a 5-to-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio and been sacked 11 times. The Trojans average 25 points, which ranks them 89th. Idaho averages 23.6 points while giving up an average of 30.6 points. The Vandals' overall statistics are skewed by two terrible performances versus UNLV and Missouri. If you discount those games and in fairness throw out Idaho's 28-6 opening-week victory against Sacramento State, the Vandals would be surrendering 25.4 points a game. The oddsmaker is asking Troy to give up a lot of points in a game that has a relatively low total. The Trojans have scored more than 27 points three times this season. If they were to score 30 points they still would have a hard time covering this number considering Linehan's talent level that ensures Idaho of getting its share of points. Idaho often is overlooked. The Vandals quietly have covered 80 percent of their last 16 games going 12-3-1 ATS. Troy, on the other hand, has failed to cover during its past six home games.
11-02-17	Warriors -7 v. Spurs	Top	112-92	Win	100	12 h 20 m	Show
Even the great Gregg Popovich can't just snap his fingers and have the Spurs immediately turn things around and beat Golden State. The Spurs are at low ebb returning home for the first time in nine days having lost three in a row falling to the Magic, Pacers and Celtics, 108-94, this past Monday. Golden State also has started slow, but the Warriors got their mojo back in a big way in their last game destroying the Clippers, 141-113. The Warriors are at full strength while the Spurs remain down Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker. The Spurs had to play without Leonard during the final three games of the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors and lost by an average margin of more than 20 points a game.
11-02-17	Rangers v. Lightning OVER 6		2-1	Loss	-107	3 h 38 m	Show
The Rangers have gotten untracked offensively scoring 15 goals in their last three games. Only once in their last seven games have the Rangers failed to produce at least three goals in a game. The Lightning lead the NHL in goals averaging 4.1 per game. Tampa Bay is coming off an 8-goal game against Florida. The over has cashed 10 of the last 14 times when the Lightning has played at home.
11-02-17	Islanders v. Capitals -130		3-4	Win	100	7 h 21 m	Show
The Islanders are coming off their highest monthly win total in 16 years. The Capitals are coming off their first losing month in two years. But I see things getting reversed here. The Capitals have the superior goalie and firepower. The Capitals have been home since early Monday following a disappointing three-game trip. That's ample time for them to regroup. The Capitals haven't been that far off. They went 1-2 on their Canadian trip with the two losses each coming by one goal. Washington's best players have strong histories against the Islanders. Goalie Braden Holtby is 12-3-3 versus New York, Alex Ovechkin averages more than a point per game against the Islanders and Nicklas Backstrom has 33 points in 34 games versus the Islanders.
11-02-17	Islanders v. Capitals OVER 5.5		3-4	Win	100	2 h 9 m	Show
The Islanders are red-hot averaging five goals per game during their last six games. Each of their last six games has gone above the total. The Capitals should get their offense in gear now that they are back home. Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom have strong histories against the Islanders.
11-01-17	Predators +114 v. Sharks		1-4	Loss	-100	19 h 37 m	Show
I see the Predators coming in with a big game in this spot. Nashville has not played since Saturday when it was embarrassed at home, 6-2, by the Islanders when backup Juuse Saros was in goal. That may have been the Predators' worst game of the season. This is the first of four straight road games for the Predators with the first three coming against California teams. The Predators are 8-3 in their last 11 games versus Pacific Division opponents. They won their last road game, too, beating the Blackhawks. The Sharks average just 2.6 goals at home. San Jose has a lot of age. The Sharks are going to have to deal with a hot Pekka Rinne, who is 5-1-2 with a 1.86 GAA and .940 save percentage. Rinne has a strong history against San Jose with an 11-6-4 record, 1.83 GAA and .943 save percentage.
11-01-17	Predators v. Sharks UNDER 5.5		1-4	Win	100	6 h 51 m	Show
Nashville ranks 28th in scoring while San Jose is 23rd in scoring. The Predators have scored nine goals in their last five games failing to break the two-goal barrier in every one of those games. The Sharks haven't scored more than three goals in five of their last six games. Both teams are going against hot goalies with strong histories in this series. Only two of the last 13 matchups played in San Jose between these two teams have gone Over the total.
11-01-17	Bucks +3.5 v. Hornets	Top	121-126	Loss	-108	12 h 3 m	Show
I prefer the Hornets taking points rather than laying especially against this opponent. The Bucks have beaten Charlotte during the past three meetings, including 103-94 at home 10 days ago. The Bucks beat the Hornets by nine points despite missing injured point guard Malcolm Brogdon, who is back from a sprained ankle. Giannis Antetokounmpo gives Milwaukee the best player on the court. Antetokounmpo has scored at least 28 points in every game while filling up all the statistical categories. He had 32 points and 14 rebounds in the earlier victory against the Hornets. Milwaukee lost at home to Oklahoma City last night. The Bucks were flat in that game. But only Kris Middleton logged more than 30 minutes. Look for a much stronger effort and performance from the Bucks here. Milwaukee is 7-1-1 ATS the past nine times when playing without rest. The Bucks also have covered in their last six visits to Charlotte.
10-31-17	Astros v. Dodgers UNDER 8	Top	1-3	Win	100	16 h 10 m	Show
After the Astros' 13-12 victory on Sunday in Game 5 you would think the total might be set in the double-digit range for today's World Series Game 6. It's not. There are good reasons for that. The past three games were played at hitter-friendly Minute Maid Park with a DH. The scene now shifts to pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium where unlike the first two games of the series when temperatures were a sizzling 103, the weather is going to be much different. The forecast is for 65 degrees. This is a cool air, too, and much different than these teams were used to when playing the first two games at Dodger Stadium. It's going to be an adjustment for the batters. I also like both starting pitchers very much. Justin Verlander is 9-0 with a 1.53 ERA in his 10 appearances with the Astros. The guy's a pro and potential Hall of Famer. I see him getting the job done. Rich Hill is one of the nastiest lefty strikeout artists in baseball when healthy. He's healthy now. Hill held the Astros to one run on three hits with seven strikeouts in four innings during Game 2. He only threw 60 pitches yet was pulled by manager Dave Roberts. That was one of the biggest mistakes of the series - and Roberts knows it. Roberts is going to let Hill pitch deep into the game provided Hill is pitching well. I believe Hill will be dominant. Both bullpens have been battered. A day off, a drastic change of scenery and no DH will help the pitching. But this is going to come down to Verlander versus Hill. I like and trust both of these pitchers especially given the circumstances. The overmanaging should stop here. Just let these two studs go and the chances are good we'll have a 3-2 or 4-3 final score.
10-31-17	Suns v. Nets UNDER 231		122-114	Loss	-110	12 h 60 m	Show
Phoenix's numbers are skewed because of a coaching change. In three games under Earl Watson, the Suns allowed 128.7 points a game and allowed opponents to make half of their 3-point shots. Jay Triano replaced Watson three games ago. In three games under Triano, the Suns are giving up an average of 105.7 points per game and holding foes to 36.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc. The Suns did play a pair of weak scoring teams - Kings and Jazz - under Triano. But there's no doubt Triano has made a difference in Phoenix's improved defensive play. The Suns are playing more intense under Triano. Their young players know they will be pulled if they have defensive lapses, which wasn't the case under player-friendly Watson. The Nets should have a lot of intensity, too. They've lost two in a row since upsetting the Cavaliers, falling to the Knicks and Nuggets in a pair of blowout defeats. The Nets averaged 98.5 points during those two defeats. D'Angelo Russell has emerged as the Nets' major scoring threat. He missed the Cavaliers game because of knee soreness. That absence may have put Russell out of rhythm. He played against the Knicks and Nuggets and was cold in both games shooting a combined 9-for-22 from the floor missing seven of eight 3-point shots. The Nets won't have Quincy Acy for this game either due to a groin injury. Acy leads the Nets in 3-point accuracy hitting 52.4 percent. The Under has cashed the past five times these teams have played in Brooklyn.
10-31-17	Kings +5.5 v. Pacers		83-101	Loss	-105	12 h 31 m	Show
The Pacers are coming off a surprising 97-94 win against the Spurs two days ago. They have the suddenly vulnerable Cavaliers on deck Wednesday. But first comes this home game against the 1-5 Kings. It's a dangerous spot for the Pacers, who once again will be without their best big man, Myles Turner. He's out for a sixth straight game due to a concussion and sore neck. Domantas Sabonis has played well taking over Turner's minutes. Sabonis, though, is questionable because of a head cold. The Kings are in rebuilt mode. But they want to maintain some respectability, so they added veterans George Hill, Zach Randolph and Vince Carter. Sacramento is in stop-the-pain mode after being embarrassed, 110-83, by the Wizards at home this past Sunday. Hill and Randolph were held out of that game in order to give younger players more minutes. But Hill and Randolph will play against the Pacers. This is the first game of a three-game road trip for the Kings - and their best chance to win. Following this game, the Kings play at Boston and Detroit. The Celtics and Pistons are each 5-2.
10-30-17	Maple Leafs +105 v. Sharks		2-3	Loss	-100	6 h 29 m	Show
The Maple Leafs are 3-0 on the road and catch the Sharks in their first home game following a five-game road trip that began on Oct. 20 and didn't end until Saturday. I see this as a flat spot for the Sharks, while the Maple Leafs will be highly motivated following back-to-back home losses. Toronto also wants to win this game for Patrick Marleau in his return to San Jose. Marleau is the all-time scoring leader for the Sharks and was the face of their franchise.
10-30-17	Magic +7.5 v. Pelicans		115-99	Win	100	11 h 38 m	Show
You may not have noticed it because they are below the radar and don't have a superstar, but the Orlando Magic are a much improved team. The Magic are the No. 2 scoring team in the NBA at 117.2 points a game. The Magic have been consistent in this, too, scoring at least 113 points in each of their six games. The 3-3 Pelicans are coming off an impressive 123-101 home rout of the Cavaliers. New Orleans has a bigger game on deck against fellow Western Conference foe, Minnesota, at home on Wednesday. It's easy to overrate the Pelicans because they have a pair of superstar big men. Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins are two of just five players in the league to average 25 points and 10 rebounds. Jrue Holiday is a decent point guard. But get beyond those three and New Orleans has questionable talent. Orlando lost 120-113 to Charlotte on the road Sunday. It's so early in the season and the Magic have a lot of youth so fatigue shouldn't factor. Before losing to the Hornets, the Magic had won three in a row, including defeating the Spurs and Cavaliers. The Magic beat the Spurs by 27 points and the Cavaliers by 21. You are worthy of respect if you win big against those two teams. Nikola Vucevic can be counted on for a double/double and Aaron Gordon is looking like one of the most improved players in the league. Evan Fournier can score and Jonathon Simmons is an intriguing talent, who scored 27 points against the Hornets. Note, too, that Orlando has defeated New Orleans in four of the last five meetings.
10-30-17	Spurs +3.5 v. Celtics	Top	94-108	Loss	-107	10 h 20 m	Show
When the games mattered, the Spurs did not lose three in a row during the regular season all last season. But now the Spurs have dropped consecutive games falling to the Magic and Pacers. I don't see them losing three straight. San Antonio has beaten Boston 11 in a row with six coming at TD Garden. Yet the oddsmaker sees no Kawhi Leonard and a hot Boston club that has won four in a row. The Celtics' win streak, however, has come against the 76ers, Knicks, Bucks and Heat minus Hassan Whiteside. The Bucks are the only one of that group with a winning record. The Spurs have a deep bench, Pau Gasol is playing better and LaMarcus Aldridge is off to a great start scoring more than 20 points in each of the Spurs' six games
10-30-17	Lightning -111 v. Panthers		8-5	Win	100	5 h 5 m	Show
The Lightning is better than Florida especially in goal with Andrei Vasilevskiy, who is looking for his ninth straight win. The Panthers are going with backup goalie James Reimer, who has to deal with Nikita Kucherov, who leads the NHL with 12 goals. The Panthers are inconsistent and not strong on special teams. They are giving up the most shots on goal, too.
10-30-17	Lightning v. Panthers OVER 5.5		8-5	Win	100	4 h 40 m	Show
Tampa Bay is the fourth-highest scoring team in the NHL. The Lightning have scored three or more goals in nine of their 12 games. Florida has been disappointing defensively. The Panthers give up the most shots on goal and rank 25th defensively. They also are going with backup goalie James Reimer. The Panthers are averaging 4.6 goals in their five home games. The Over has cashed in eight of Florida's last 10 games.
10-29-17	Steelers -145 v. Lions	Top	20-15	Win	100	102 h 54 m	Show
Put simply there is a class difference here. The Steelers are coming on both offensively and defensively. Ben Roethlisberger has a history of playing much better at home, but the Steelers are winning by riding Le'Veon Bell. He's rushed for 484 yards and three touchdowns during the last four games carrying the ball 117 times during this span. Bell's matchup is helped by the Lions not having injured run stuff Haloti Ngata. Because of Roethlisberger, the Steelers are perceived as being bad on the road. Yet they've won seven of their last 10 away games. They also are 14-6-1 ATS in their last 21 games played in October. The Lions can't just key on Bell because once again Antonio Brown is the best wide receiver in football. The Lions limped into their bye having surrendered a combined 79 points to the Panthers - who just were held to three points by the Bears this past Sunday - and Saints during their past two games. The Steelers are tied for second with 24 sacks and give up a league-low 4.4 yards per play. Matthew Stafford does not have a good track record against foes with a winning record. Stafford entered his bye thoroughly beat-up playing behind a porous offensive line. The Lions rank 28th in rushing and they won't have their best receiver, Golden Tate, who is out with a shoulder injury.
10-29-17	Texans v. Seahawks -6		38-41	Loss	-108	10 h 19 m	Show
Going into Seattle is always rough. It's made rougher for the Texans because the Seahawks are playing well - three straight victories - and Houston's focus could be off due to comments made by team owner Bob McNair. McNair's "inmates running the prison" comment has caused a huge distraction among the Texans. Many plan to protest before the game. The Seahawks still have an elite veteran defense. Deshaun Watson is having a monster season, but he's a rookie going into the lion's den here. Houston is 1-6 ATS following a victory.
10-29-17	Falcons -4 v. Jets		25-20	Win	100	95 h 9 m	Show
OK, I get that Atlanta is having a painful Super Bowl hangover. The Falcons have lost three in a row - all to AFC East opponents. Now the Falcons draw the weakest AFC East foe, the Jets. This is a stop-the-pain game for the Falcons. And the Jets are a good foe for them to get well against. I don't see any advantage the Jets have in this matchup with the Falcons holding major edges at the skill position spots. I also like the Falcons' defense better than the Jets particularly with Vic Beasley back in the lineup from injury. Matt Ryan isn't having a magical year like last season. But he's still Matt Ryan, which rates far above Josh McCown and his motley crew of below average wide receivers. The Falcons should dominate with Ryan, Julio Jones and Devontae Freeman. The line is fairly priced, too, because of the Falcons' losing streak.
10-29-17	Chargers v. Patriots UNDER 48.5		13-21	Win	100	95 h 39 m	Show
Normally you wouldn't think of these two teams as having defenses you can trust to play Under. But the Chargers are coming off a shutout of Denver. They've given up an average of 12.6 points in their last three games. No team has scored more than 26 points on the Chargers all season. Tom Brady has been sacked 18 times. He only was sacked 15 times in 12 games last season. The Chargers are tied for the fourth-most sacks in the NFL. Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa have combined for 16 sacks, which is the most in the league by two teammates. The Patriots have yet to fully replace Julian Edelman in the slot and their red zone touchdown percentage isn't what it has been because of it. New England's defense was record bad during its first four games allowing an average of 32 points. But Bill Belichick has made the proper adjustments simplifying things for his secondary particularly Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung and Duron Harmon. The Patriots have held their last three opponents to 12.7 points per game. Two of those foes, the Buccaneers and Falcons, have strong offenses. Philip Rivers has played better on the road than at home, but his performance has been down the past couple of seasons. He's still an above average quarterback, but not the elite gunslinger of previous years.
10-29-17	Colts v. Bengals OVER 42		23-24	Win	100	7 h 42 m	Show
The Colts are giving up an average of 42.7 points in three games on the road this season. Indy is going to be missing perhaps its three best defensive players here. Linebacker John Simon is out. So are defensive backs Rashaan Melvin and Malik Hooker. Melvin, not Vontae Davis, had emerged as the Colts' top cornerback. Hooker leads the Colts in interceptions. The Colts do not have good depth in the secondary. The Bengals are due to breakout offensively given their skill position talent, which is made better with rookie speedster wide receiver John Ross healthy at last. The Colts have some talented skill position players, too. T.Y. Hilton is a top-15 wide receiver and Marlon Mack an exciting runner, who is starting to get more playing time. Look for him to be effective on screen passes. There is bad weather across the NFL landscape today - but not in Cincinnati. No rain is in the forecast. Temperatures are in the middle 40's with little wind.
10-28-17	Celtics -125 v. Heat		96-90	Win	100	10 h 28 m	Show
Boston is a better team than Miami. The Celtics are a much better team than Miami when the Heat doesn't have 7-foot center Hassan Whiteside, who will miss his fourth straight game due to a knee bruise. The Celtics have swept the Heat each of the last two seasons. Boston went 4-0 against Miami last season winning by eight and 10 points, respectively, at American Airlines Arena. Whiteside, who is far and away Miami's best player and probably the top rim protector in the Eastern Conference, played in all four of those defeats. The Heat win with defense. Their defense has suffered without Whiteside. Miami ranks third-from-last in defensive field goal percentage and second-to-last in 3-point defense. The Heat are yielding 108.5 points a game, which puts them in the bottom 10 in scoring defense. The Celtics were stunned when Gordon Hayward went down in their opening game. It took the Celtics a couple of games to get over that and also for Brad Stevens to start finding the right rotation. After an 0-2 beginning, Boston has won and covered its last three games, including beating the Bucks on the road, 96-89, two nights ago in its last game. Boston ranks 20 places higher than Miami in the latest defensive rankings. The Celtics don't have a powerful inside game, but Al Horford is off to a good start and Kyrie Irving can take advantage of Miami's vulnerable perimeter defense. The Heat opened their season playing three probable lottery teams - Orlando, Indiana and Atlanta. They finally drew an elite foe, San Antonio, in their last game and lost by 17 points at home. The Celtics aren't in the Spurs' class. But they are at the next level, which is a clear level higher than the Heat especially when minus Whiteside.
10-28-17	UTSA v. UTEP UNDER 48	Top	31-14	Win	100	35 h 20 m	Show
What do you get with three ineffective quarterbacks rotating and no ground game? You get Texas El-Paso's offense, which is the second-worst in the country. The Miners have not broken the 17-point barrier in six of their seven games. The under has cashed 18 of the last 25 times in the Miners' conference games. Don't expect a sudden scoring outburst from UTEP against Texas San Antonio, which ranks 19th in scoring defense giving up 18 points a game. The Roadrunners just held Rice to seven points last Saturday. UTEP has been playing better defense since Mike Price replaced Sean Kugler as coach. The Miners have ranked in the top 50 defensively during their last couple of games and have had an extra week of preparation to work on more defensive schemes having had a bye last week.
10-28-17	Duke v. Virginia Tech UNDER 49		3-24	Win	100	34 h 3 m	Show
Think defense here and not just because the Under has cashed in Duke's last six games. Both teams have excellent defenses and Duke is struggling to score averaging 13.5 points in its last four games. Blue Devils quarterback Daniel Jones ranks 13th among the 14 qualified ACC quarterbacks in passing efficiency. Virginia Tech ranks No. 2 in the nation in third-down defense and gives up only 12.7 points per game, which ranks fifth in the nation. Duke, though, is strong on defense. The Blue Devils are No. 1 in the ACC in interceptions and second in sacks. Weather could impact scoring, too, with rain expected.
10-28-17	Rangers v. Canadiens UNDER 5.5		4-5	Loss	-103	12 h 56 m	Show
Call it a feeling, but I believe Carey Price is going to come up big against the Rangers. Price was booed at home during the Canadiens' 4-0 loss to the Kings this past Thursday. Price is far from being the best goalie in hockey like he was a couple of years ago. But he's not exactly washed up either. Price is going to need to come up big because the Canadiens have scored four goals in their last four games against the Rangers. The teams last met Oct.8 and New York won, 2-0. This has been an Under series with the Under cashing to the tune of 18-6-7 the past 31 times. The Rangers are going with backup goalie Ondrej Pavelec. I'm OK with that. Henrik Lundqvist is past him prime and Pavelec is 2-0 lifetime versus Montreal with a 1.92 goals against average mark and .942 save percentage.
10-28-17	NC State +7.5 v. Notre Dame		14-35	Loss	-130	13 h 31 m	Show
I'm not a big fan of Notre Dame quarterback Brandon Wimbush especially when the Irish are going to have problems running the ball against North Carolina State's stout defense. The Wolfpack haven't allowed more than 116 yards rushing in any game. They rank sixth in the nation in run defense. No foe has scored more than 25 points on the Wolfpack either. That sets up well when taking a touchdown. Senior North Carolina State quarterback Ryan Finley isn't flashy. But he is efficient and can be trusted not to turn the ball over. He has yet to be intercepted in 248 attempts. North Carolina State has covered its past five road games.
10-28-17	NC State v. Notre Dame UNDER 58		14-35	Win	100	11 h 58 m	Show
I see defense not offense ruling the day here in this matchup. Notre Dame is holding foes to 16.4 points a game, which is 12th-best in the country. North Carolina State allows less than 23 points a game. The Wolfpack are tremendous against the run and can control the line of scrimmage against Notre Dame's offensive line, which hasn't gone against this caliber of foe, nor North Carolina State's unusual 4-2-5 defensive alignment. The Irish also have to deal with Bradley Chubb, one of the best defensive players in the nation. Chubb has 14 tackles for losses and 6 1/2 sacks. He's a highly disruptive force.
10-28-17	Appalachian State v. UMass OVER 55		27-30	Win	100	30 h 21 m	Show
Both offenses have been looking good. Appalachian State has a balanced attack with dual threat senior Taylor Lamb at quarterback. The Mountaineers' offensive line is coming off probably their best game of the season. They should dominante the Minutemen in the trenaches. UMass just had to prepare for Georgia Southern's triple option offense last week. Now they have to switch back in their defensive preparation. That can be a problem. Appalachian State has scored 105 points in its last three games. UMass has scored 105 points in its last two games. It's important to note the Minutemen have been playing at a brisk pace, too.
10-28-17	Sharks v. Sabres +115		3-2	Loss	-100	6 h 1 m	Show
Buffalo has been a major disappointment this season. But the Sabres have started to play better winning two of their last three. They have a strong history versus San Jose and catch a big scheduling break here. This is the final game of the Sharks' five-game, nine-day road trip. San Jose just played Thursday night. This is a very early start - 10 a.m. West Coast time - so it's almost like the Sharks are playing on consecutive days. Buffalo has beaten San Jose 10 of the last 13 times. The Sabres are 10-4 against the Sharks in their last 14 home games. The Sabres' little two-game win streak ended this past Wednesday in a 5-1 loss to Columbus. The Sabres haven't played since. They won't play again until Thursday. So an all-out effort should be forthcoming against what should be a tired and fatigued Sharks squad that has a lot of age to them.
10-28-17	Sharks v. Sabres UNDER 5.5		3-2	Win	100	6 h 1 m	Show
San Jose has scored more than three goals just twice in nine games this season. Buffalo ranks 27th in goals averaging 2.5 per game. The teams met a litte more than two weeks ago and San Jose won, 3-2. I don't see more than five goals being scored again. Only two of the last seven in the series have produced an Over. This is a very early start time, which usually means sluggish play on offense. The Sharnks are concluding a five-game, nine-day road trip with this matchup.Their power play has produced just two goals in 16 tries during the road swing.
10-27-17	Wizards v. Warriors UNDER 231.5	Top	117-120	Loss	-110	20 h 45 m	Show
It's easy to think offense with so many great scorers in this matchup. That's why the total is set so high. The opener is the highest total of the season for both the Wizards and Warriors. It's set too high in my view. I understand, though, why the oddsmaker has to set such a high over/under here. The Warriors have been more about offense. Their defense has slipped. The Wizards are perceived as far more of an offensive team than defensive one. Golden State is surrendering 113.6 points a game this season. That's nine more points per game than they allowed last season. This hasn't escaped the attention of Steve Kerr and Draymond Green. Kerr criticized his team's execution and Green, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, ripped the Warriors for their horrible defense. The Warriors rank 25th defensively and 18th in defensive field goal pecentage. Last year, the Warriors were No. 1 in defensive field goal percentage and 3-point defensive percentage. Improvement on the defensive end is coming - and I see it occurring starting now. The Wizards' main strength is a high-scoring backcourt of John Wall and Bradley Beal. Wall, though, is in a shooting slump hitting just 10-of-35 shots from the field in his last two games. Washington ranks third-from-the-bottom in 3-point shooting. So the Wizards are going to have to earn a fair share of their points inside, which is tough to do against Golden State. If you play Rotisserie basketball like I do, you'll know that Kevin Durant leads the NBA in shot-block percentage averaging three a game. Green is a defensive monster. This is the third of the Wizards' four-game road trip. The Wizards entered their road swing emphasizing playing stronger defense. They did that in their last game holding the Lakers - a top-10 scoring team - to 92 points in regulation. The Wizards, however, lost that game, 102-99, in overtime two days ago. The Wizards might have got caught peeking ahead to this matchup against the world champs. So Washington's intensity should be way up, too.
10-27-17	Dodgers +124 v. Astros		3-5	Loss	-100	22 h 48 m	Show
Houston is tough at home. But I'll take this plus price with the Dodgers, who have the better starting pitcher and bullpen. LA has followed each of its last four losses with a victory. The Dodgers also are 5-1 in their last six road games. The Dodgers picked up Yu Darvish for just such a spot here. Darvish has come through when the Dodgers have needed him most giving up only two runs during his last five starts spanning 30 2/3 inings. He's struck out 35 during this time frame while giving up a combined 19 htis and walks. Darvish knows how to pitch at Minute Maid Park with a lifetime mark of 4-1 and 2.16 ERA with a 0.74 WHIP in six career games there. Current Astros are batting just a combined .190 against Darvich. The Astros are the more powerful team, but the roof is going to be closed reducing Houston's power. Houston is pitching Lance McCullers. The Astros have lost eight of the last nine times McCullers has started.
10-27-17	Thunder -120 v. Wolves		116-119	Loss	-120	8 h 21 m	Show
I expect Jimmy Butler to play. The Timberwolves have been awful without him. But they haven't been that good with him either. Minnesota didn't play defense last season and there hasn't been any improvement this season. The Timberwolves are last in defensive field goal percentage and 26th in scoring defense. The Thunder, on the other hand, are strong defensively. Each team has stars, but only Oklahoma City plays good defense. This also is short revenge for the Thunder. They where stunned by the Timberwolves at home this past Sunday when Andrew Wiggins hit a long 3-point at the buzzer. That game was poorly officiated with a number of key decisions going against the Thunder at the end. Maybe the Timberwolves will get their act straighten out now that they've upgraded their talent level. But right now the Thunder are the better team and they are going to be highly motivated.
10-27-17	Senators v. Devils OVER 5.5		4-5	Win	100	2 h 45 m	Show
Ottawa has scored 17 goals in its last four games. One of these games was a 5-4 overtime loss to the Devils eight days ago. The Devils have been a much higher scoring team than anticipated. They've gone over the total in five of their last seven games. The Devils had a season-high 46 shots in their 5-4 win against the Senators. Cory Schneider isn't ready yet to play, so backup goalie Keith Kinkaid will be in net for New Jersey.
10-26-17	Pelicans -118 v. Kings	Top	114-106	Win	100	12 h 18 m	Show
I'm not expecting Anthony Davis to play. It's a monster bonus if Davis were to play. I'm not counting on that, though. The Pelicans are better than the Kings even if Davis is out after tweaking his knee in the Pelicans' last game two days ago. An MRI exam did come back negative. DeMarcus Cousins has been pointing to this game all summer in his return to Sacramento. Cousins is off to a great start averaging 31 points, 12 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 3.3 blocks. Yet, the Pelicans are just 1-3. All of their losses have been against tough foes - Grizzlies on the road, Warriors and Trail Blazers on the road when Davis got hurt five minutes into the game. New Orleans took care of business against the Lakers beating them, 119-112, in LA this past Sunday. The Kings are in that bottom rung with the Lakers. This is the Kings' first home game following a three-game road trip. The Kings have a lot of youth and new faces. They are going through an ajdustment period. They also are not used to the national spotlight as this is a rare TNT game for them. The Kings can work as an underdog play. It's too much to expect them to win straight-up.
10-26-17	Capitals -135 v. Canucks		2-6	Loss	-135	11 h 31 m	Show
The Canucks are finally coming home after being on the road since the middle of the month. Vancouver went an improbable 4-1 on its away swing, including nipping Minnesota, 1-0, in its last game two night ago. Vancouver is dealing with a triple whammy here: No. 1: Playing at home for the first time following a long trip is tough because of the concentration level. It's also tough for the Canucks because it involves a time change and they are in a rare happy and fat syndrome. They were underdogs in all four of their road victories. No. 2: Vancouver is dreadful at home losing 18 of the past 22 times, including the past three. No. 3: Washington should be highly motivated. The Capitals have had five days to stew about a 4-1 home loss to Florida in their last game. The Capitals are rested and own a 20-6 mark following a loss of three goals or more. Washington also has won 13 of its past 18 road games.
10-26-17	Eastern Michigan v. Northern Illinois -7		27-30	Loss	-105	8 h 50 m	Show
Eastern Michigan has lost five straight close games. That's not only tough on the record but the morale. Just ask the San Francisco 49ers. They also had lost five consecutive close games before getting drilled 40-10 by the Cowboys this past Sunday. I understand this is an apples and oranges comparison. Those teams have nothing to do with each other. But I point it out as an illustration of how tough it is to hang close for a sixth consecutive game after losing the first five times. The Eagles are going to have a tough time denting Northern Illinois' stout defense, the best in the MAC. Northern Illinois has a strong pass rush led by Sutton Smith, who has 8 1/2 sacks. The Eagles have the worst third-down conversion rate in the MAC. Northern Illinois has a balanced attack. Freshman quarterback Marcus Childers has been terrific since becoming the starter three games ago throwing for 594 yards and a 7-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ration in his three starts.
10-25-17	Jazz v. Suns OVER 203		88-97	Loss	-110	15 h 35 m	Show
Miami finished last season strong, but is a lackluster 2-1 this season with its victories coming against probably lottery-bound Indiana and Atlanta. The Heat's loss occurred against Orlando. Now the Heat face their strongest opponent by far - San Antonio. And the Heat have to play the Spurs without their best player, center Hassan Whiteside. He remains out with a left knee bruise. That's not Miami's only injury. Goran Dragic, the Heat's second-best player, has a bruised thigh and Dion Waiters has a sore ankle. Oddsmakers are downgrading the Spurs because they don't have injured Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker. San Antonio, though, has outstanding depth. LaMarcus Aldridge has handled the heavy lifting averaging 24.3 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. Dejounte Murray has filled in admirably well for Parker at point guard averaging 13.3 points, a team-high 9.7 rebounds and a team-high 4.7 assists. Parker would be hard-pressed to match those numbers. San Antonio also has covered eight of the last nine meetings between the two clubs.
10-25-17	Pacers v. Thunder -14.5	Top	96-114	Win	100	20 h 10 m	Show
Not only are the Thunder far superior to the Pacers - especially with big man Myles Turner out for Indiana - but the spot sets up perfect for Oklahoma City. The Pacers just stunned the Timberwolves, 130-107, on Tuesday night. Now this young Pacers squad has a second straight road game playing at Chesapeake Energy Arena, one of the toughest venues in the league. The Pacers then return home and don't play again until Sunday. They've been on the road since Saturday. I can't see the Pacers producing a strong effort here. I do see the Thunder motivated for a kill spot. Oklahoma City has been sitting around stewing since losing 115-113 at home on Sunday to Minnesota when Andrew Wiggins banked in a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Timberwolves a stunning victory. The Thunder were victimized by several bad calls at the end in what was one of the worst officiated games of the season. A subplot to this matchup is Paul George going against his former teammates. George will be psyched for this matchup as he didn't like how his exit was handled by the Pacers. This would be a tough matchup for the Pacers even if they had Turner, their best player, shot-blocker and rim-protector. Without Turner, who remains out with a concussion, the Pacers may be the worst team at defending the paint. Minnesota scored more than half of its 107 points in the paint against Indiana last night. Russell Westbrook, George and Carmelo Athony can take advantage. These three superstars would like to put on a show for their home fans. This is a golden opportunity for them.The stage is set.
10-25-17	Sabres v. Blue Jackets -1.5		1-5	Win	140	18 h 36 m	Show
Columbus is in circle-the-wagons mode after dropping the first two games of their homestand. Those defeats have come to the Kings and Lightning. Those two teams are a combined 15-2-2. Now the Blue Jackets are dropping way down in class hosting the Sabres, who are a bit fat and happy having won two in a row. This includes a 1-0 victory against the Red Wings at home last night. It's the first time the Sabres have won two in a row this season. Even with those two wins, Buffalo still is just 9-23 in its past 32 games. The Blue Jackets last played on Saturday. They will be well rested and prepared. Columbus has won the past eight times it has played on three or more days rest.
10-25-17	Spurs -3.5 v. Heat		117-100	Win	100	13 h 23 m	Show
Miami finished last season strong, but is a lackluster 2-1 this season with its victories coming against probably lottery-bound Indiana and Atlanta. The Heat's loss occurred against Orlando. Now the Heat face their strongest opponent by far - San Antonio. And the Heat have to play the Spurs without their best player, center Hassan Whiteside. He remains out with a left knee bruise. That's not Miami's only injury. Goran Dragic, the Heat's second-best player, has a bruised thigh and Dion Waiters has a sore ankle. Oddsmakers are downgrading the Spurs because they don't have injured Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker. San Antonio, though, has outstanding depth. LaMarcus Aldridge has handled the heavy lifting averaging 24.3 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. Dejounte Murray has filled in admirably well for Parker at point guard averaging 13.3 points, a team-high 9.7 rebounds and a team-high 4.7 assists. Parker would be hard-pressed to match those numbers. San Antonio also has covered eight of the last nine meetings between the two clubs.
10-24-17	Astros +1.5 v. Dodgers	Top	1-3	Loss	-135	12 h 50 m	Show
As great as he is, Clayton Kershaw does not have a good history in the postseason. He's 6-7 with a 4.40 ERA in 21 playoff appearances, including 17 starts. If minus 1 1/2 runs were attached to Kershaw's last 11 starts the Dodgers would be just 6-5 in those games. Kershaw is going against a Houston offense that led the majors in runs, batting average and slugging percentage. The Astros also hit the second-most home runs. This is remarkable in that they had the fewest strikeouts of any team. The Astros also can run finishing eighth in stolen bases with 88. Jose Altuve gives Houston the best player in baseball. The Dodgers are in a vulnerable spot in this Game 1. LA hasn't played in four days. Batting practice can't make up for that long delay. The Astros have had two days off. Their batteries are still charged up after they got past the Yankees in seven games by winning Games 6 and 7. The Dodgers were fortunate to have met the Diamondbacks, who lacked playoff experience, and sleepwalking Cubs in the postseason. The Astros are a clear step up, winner of 101 games and with two studs heading their rotation, Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander. Keuchel goes here. The AL Cy Young Award winner of two seasons ago, has a lifetime playoff mark of 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in six career postseason appearances, including five starts. Houston is 11-3 the past 14 times Keuchel has pitched on the road. Given Kershaw's poor postseason history, the starting pitching matchup is far closer than this price indicates. The Astros have the better offense and are in good spot with the Dodgers possibly being rusty and overconfident after dominating the NL playoffs. I do give the Dodgers a checkmark for their late-inning relief pitching. So I believe the best way to play this game is taking the Astros on the run line especially in what's being projected as a low-scoring game.
10-24-17	Knicks v. Celtics UNDER 209	Top	89-110	Win	100	15 h 54 m	Show
The Knicks rank second-to-last in scoring and have one of the worst backcourts in the NBA. The Celtics held the high-scoring Cavaliers to 102 points in their first game. The Celtics are trying to find their offense after losing Gordon Hayward in the opening game. Boston ranks fourth from the bottom in field goal percentage. Brad Stevens is trying to find the right rotation with so many new faces. The Celtics have been idle for the past three days. That's too long of a spell not to be in game action this early in the season. Stevens is a high caliber coach who will make good use of that time. But there could be a rust factor in the Celtics' shooting for this game. The Knicks have played only two games, tied for the least amount. They are trying to figure out their offense, too, in a post Carmelo Anthony era. Kristaps Porzingis is New York's only reliable scorer. The Knicks should be fired-up, though. Not only is this a division rivalry matchup, but New York is coming off a blown 21-point lead in a home loss to the Pistons this past Saturday.
10-23-17	Wizards v. Nuggets UNDER 223		109-104	Win	100	15 h 33 m	Show
This high total is based on reputation not reality especially when it comes to the Nuggets. Denver is 27th in scoring averaging 96 points and third in defense holding its two foes to an average of 92 1/2 points. Usually those statistics are the opposite. Not this season, though. The Nuggets are playing at a very slow pace. They are getting little scoring production at point guard with Jamal Murray and Emmanuel Mudiay shooting a combined 10-for-34 from the floor for 29 percent. Big man Nikola Jokic has scored seven points in two games. The Nuggets have no dangerous scoring option with Danilo Gallinari no longer on the team. They are searching for scoring options knowing they won't get it from their point guards. The Wizards have opened 2-0 averaging 117 1/2 points in dispatching the 76ers and Pistons at home. That's one reason why this total opened so high. The Wizards are putting emphasis on improving their defense. They were idle during the weekend having last played on Friday. So their shooting could be a little rusty - this is their first road game - but the energy should be there for a strong defensive effort.
10-23-17	Raptors v. Spurs -150		97-101	Win	100	14 h 4 m	Show
San Antonio has defeated Toronto eight consecutive times at home, including 110-82 last season. Yes, Kawhi Leonard remains out. But Toronto also has a key injury as its best big man, Jonas Valanciunas, won't play because of a sprained ankle. The Raptors are 2-0. Those victories have come against a pair of winless teams, the Bulls and 76ers. This is a huge step up for the Raptors. It's also their first road game. The Spurs have a history of playing to the level of their competition. They showed this by knocking off the much-improved Timberwolves in their opener. The Spurs then defeated the Bulls, 87-77, on Saturday. San Antonio is playing outstanding defense holding the Timberwolves to 43.5 percent shooting from the floor and the Bulls to 37.8 percent. LaMarcus Aldridge has thrived in Leonard's absence averaging 26.5 points and 10 rebounds. Toronto's bench isn't as strong as it was last season either.
10-23-17	Redskins v. Eagles OVER 48.5	Top	24-34	Win	100	123 h 7 m	Show
Kirk Cousins and Carson Wentz are two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. But they don't get nearly the respect they deserve especially Cousins. Because of Cousins, the Redskins have become a great Over team. They have gone above the total in 20 of their last 26 games and 13 of their past 16 road contests. Cousins has the third-highest quarterback rating in the league. He's averaging 8.4 yards per attempt and has only two interceptions in 158 attempts. He's on pace to throw for more than 4,000 yards for a third consecutive year. Cousins accomplishes this without a star wide receiver or good running back. The Eagles are vulnerable in their secondary because of injuries. Wentz has justified the Eagles' investment in him. He ranks No. 7 in the NFL in passing. He entered this week tied for second with the most touchdown passes with 13. Wentz has been picked off only once in his last 135 attempts. The Redskins will be missing two key defenders, cornerback Josh Norman and lineman Jonathan Allen. Norman is one of the top cornerbacks in the league. Allen was one of the better run defenders. Washington also may be without its No. 2 cornerback, Bashaud Breeland. He suffered a knee injury last week and is questionable.
10-23-17	Kings v. Maple Leafs OVER 6		2-3	Loss	-100	11 h 7 m	Show
Going Over 6 goals can be a daunting task in the NHL. But that task is made far easier when the matchup is the Kings versus the Maple Leafs. These are the No. 1 and No. 3 scoring teams in the league. Toronto leads the NHL in goals per game averaging 4.6 while the Kings average 3.9 goals a game. The Maple Leafs are an Over bettor's dream team with a fast-paced offense full of talented young skaters and a mediocre-at-best defense with an average-at-best goalie. So it's not a huge shock to see the Over cash in seven of Toronto's eight games. The Kings have scored three or more goals in six consecutive games. It's not a fluke as they've become much more uptempo under John Stevens. Their first line, featuring Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown, are playing great and Brent Burns ranks among the two best offensive defensemen. This is a prime revenge spot for the Maple Leafs, who lost 7-0 at home to the Kings last season. The price, though, is too high for me to back the Maple Leafs against the unbeaten Kings. Plus the Maple Leafs are coming off maybe their worst defensive effort of the season - which is saying a lot - in a 6-3 loss to the Senators this past Saturday. So I think the best way to get involved in this matchup is ride the high scoring games these teams have produced and go Over again.
10-22-17	Pelicans -3.5 v. Lakers	Top	119-112	Win	100	18 h 41 m	Show
The Lakers not only were last in the NBA defensively in giving up points per 100 possessions last season, but they had the worst mark in that key defensive category this decade. LA's defense doesn't look much better this season either. But all the publicity is about rookie point guard Lonzo Ball. He is an exciting talent. But he's also a poor shooter - 13-for-33 from the floor - and he doesn't play much defense. Same with his backcourt mate Brandon Ingram. They could be the worst defensive backcourt in the NBA. The Lakers were blown out in their opener by the Clippers and then defeated the Suns, who could be the worst team in the NBA. Now they get the Pelicans. New Orleans is dropping way down in class. The Pelicans opened with a road loss against the unbeaten Grizzlies, who just upset the Warriors last night, and then lost at home to the Warriors, 128-120. The Pelicans played well in that defeat. They would have beaten many teams with that display just not the defending world champions. The Pelicans are putting a lot of emphasis on getting their first victory here. They should dominate the frontcourt with Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. Both monsters are off to strong starts as they get more and more comfortable with each other. Davis is averaging 34 points and 17.5 rebounds while Cousins is putting up 31.5 points and12 rebounds per game.
10-22-17	Broncos +1.5 v. Chargers		0-21	Loss	-110	96 h 2 m	Show
The Chargers have yet to win or cover a game at home this season. It's not a surprise the Chargers are 0-3 at StubHub Center since they have no home field advantage in LA. Playing there is almost like being on the road. Philip Rivers certainly isn't fond of the team's new venue. He has a 3-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio at home compared to 7-to-2 on the road. Rivers is having a down year for the second straight season. He ranks a below average 18th in passer ratings. The Broncos give up the fewest yards per game in the NFL. Chris Harris and Aqib Talib are one of the best, if nto the best, cornerback tandem in the league. The Broncos have beaten the Chargers 11 of the last 13 times they've met, including a victory opening week. The Chargers are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games. Denver is sure to be fired-up, too, after laying an egg on national TV this past Sunday night in a shocking home loss to the Giants.
10-22-17	Jets v. Dolphins -3	Top	28-31	Push	0	127 h 49 m	Show
The linesmaker opened this game Miami minus 3 at home. This basically is saying then that these two teams are even if you factor in about a three-point home field edge for the Dolphins. My checkmarks give the Dolphins far more edges than the Jets. The situational element also favors Miami. The Jets are coming off a huge effort and a near-victory against their arch-rival the Patriots. The Dolphins have quick revenge after being embarrassed by the Jets in Week 3. The Jets thoroughly outplayed the Dolphins in their 20-6 win. The Dolphins were lucky they weren't shut out. But there were extenuating circumstances. Hurricane Irma had caused the Dolphins to not play opening week. The Dolphins then went to the West Coast and beat the Chargers in Week 2. Then they had to fly to the East Coast to play the Jets. Miami's offense still was a work in progress so early in the season with Jay Cutler getting in sync with his new team. The Dolphins' offense isn't good by any means. But they have some stability now with all that back-and-forth traveling, including a trip to London in Week 4, finally ending. The Dolphins showed a lot of heart coming back from a 17-0 halftime deficit to upset the Falcons on the road this past Sunday. Cutler did enough for Miami to win that game and Jay Ajayi had his best game of the season with 130 yards rushing. Ajayi will be the best running back on the field. Jarvis Landry is the best wideout of the two teams. DaVante Parker would be the second-best wideout if he's recovered from an ankle injury. Josh McCown is not better than Cutler. The Dolphins definitely have the better defense ranking third in fewest points allowed per game and 11th in fewest yards given up. The Jets were extremely fortunate to beat the Browns two weeks ago. Cleveland outgained New York by 202 yards and had eight more first downs. The Browns were done in by three turnovers and two missed field goals. This is the spot to recognize the Jets for being who we thought they were - a terrible team.
10-22-17	Saints -5.5 v. Packers		26-17	Win	100	94 h 51 m	Show
No player is more important to his team than Aaron Rodgers is to Green Bay. But the Packers' problems, unfortunately, go beyond Rodgers. Green Bay has cluster injury problems on the offensive line and in the secondary. The Packers are still shell shocked after losing Rodgers for the season with a broken collarbone. They played their worst game in years in losing to the Vikings this past Sunday. The Packers have their bye next week. They'll need it. They aren't ready for this week. The Saints are playing their best ball in years winning three in a row. The Saints have defeated the Panthers, Dolphins and Lions by a combined score of 106-51 during this span. The Saints beat the Panthers and Dolphins on the road. The Saints have only lost the ball three times. So they shouldn't beat themselves here. Drew Brees is as good as ever. His offensive line is improved and he has two good running backs and a deep group of wide receivers, who can take advantage of Green Bay's thin secondary. Green Bay lost six of seven games when it played offenses ranked 15th or better in offensive efficiency last year. And that was with Rodgters. New Orleans has improved its defense, too. It's now to the point where it is respectable. Look for the Saints to do plenty of blitzing against Brett Hundley, set to make his first pro start. Hundley has yet to prove that he has good pocket presence. The Packers had to finish against the Vikings with three third-stringers in their offensive line - left tackle Justin McCray, left guard Lucas Patrick and right tackle Ulrick John. McCray and John were terrible. This isnt' a question of good players having an off-game. These guys are backups who aren't nearly talented enough to be starters.
10-22-17	Panthers v. Bears OVER 40.5		3-17	Loss	-112	93 h 1 m	Show
This is a very low total in today's NFL world where rules now favor offense so much more than defense. Carolina should be able to run at least semi-successfully on the Bears, who rank 15th in rush defense. This would set up Cam Newton. Despite losing star tight end Greg Olsen, Newton has two tall quality wideouts in Kelvin Benjamin and Devin Funchess. Rookie speedster Curtis Samuel has returned from injury. He's due to make his presence known. Newton also has a dangerous target out of the backfield in first-round rookie draft choice Christian McCaffrey. So Newton has a lot of weapons. A key to Carolina doing well offensively is the expected return of Ryan Kalil, one of the better centers in the league. He's been out with a neck problem for the past five weeks. The Bears are the third-best rushing team in the NFL. Jordan Howard is one of the best running backs in football. Mitch Trubisky will be making his third start and is at home. So he should show improvement. Trubisky gives the Bears a scrambling component at quarterback, something they lacked when Mike Glennon was behind center. Chicago would catch a nice break if star linebacker Luke Kuechly is ruled out after suffering a concussion last week.
10-22-17	Cardinals v. Rams OVER 47		0-33	Loss	-110	92 h 14 m	Show
The Cardinals found their offense last week against Tampa Bay putting up 38 points and 432 yards. Arizona's much maligned offensive line played better and Adrian Peterson showed he still has something left. The Rams are the most improved offensive team in the NFL. In fact, they're the No. 1 scoring team in the league averaging 29.8 points a game. Jared Goff can take advantage of a Cardinals secondary that has a huge hole at their No. 2 cornerback spot. The Cardinals really are in trouble if No. 1 cornerback Patrick Peterson can't go because of a quad injury suffered last week. Goff's huge improvement has led to a resurgence for Todd Gurley, who is back in the argument for best back in the league. Gurley is the leading rusher in the NFC and tied for first in touchdowns. The Rams have gone Over in five of their six games.
10-21-17	Wyoming v. Boise State -14		14-24	Loss	-110	40 h 5 m	Show
Boise State was sailing along last season unbeaten and ranked 13th in the country. Then the Broncos got upset, 30-28, by Wyoming in Laramie. It was a devastating loss the Broncos haven't forgotten. Wyoming still has Josh Allen, an elite quarterback. But the Cowboys are down weapons. Allen no longer has Brian Hill, Tanner Gentry and Jacob Hollister to help boost his numbers. The Cowboys have played a weak schedule. Their best opponent during their past four games was Oregon and they lost to the Ducks, 49-13, at home. Boise State has momentum and confidence after upsetting San Diego State, 31-14, on the road last week. The Broncos also defeated BYU on the road two weeks ago. Before losing to Wyoming last year, Boise State had beaten the Cowboys 10 consecutive times. The Broncos' last three victories against the Cowboys were by 20, 49 and 41 points.
10-21-17	Spurs -9.5 v. Bulls		87-77	Win	100	13 h 9 m	Show
Even if Kawhi Leonard doesn't play, the Spurs should win this game by double-digits. The Bulls were looking like the worst team entering the season - and things have gotten even worse for them. Already down Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn, the Bulls now are without Nikola Mirotic and Bobby Portis. The Bulls JV roster can't compete with the Spurs. The question here for San Antonio is motivation. I believe the Spurs will have it. They've had problems in the past at United Center, including losing to the Bulls in Chicago last season. San Antonio should be well-prepared. The Spurs last played on Wednesday. They are off on Sunday. So the effort should be there. Certainly the talent gap is there.
10-21-17	Arizona -140 v. California		45-44	Win	100	38 h 39 m	Show
I'm going to ride Arizona QB Khalil Tate while fading California in an obvious letdown spot. Tate has put together two of the greatest back-to-back games in college history. He ran for an FBS record 327 yards against Colorado on the road and followed that up with 230 yards rushing and two touchdowns and a passing touchdown against UCLA last week. Arizona ranks fourth in the nation in rushing and seventh in scoring at 42.8 points per game. The Golden Bears are coming off a stunnng 37-3 upset win against Washington State. Was Cal that good, or Washington State that bad? I'd say it was more the Cougars self-destructing with seven turnovers. The Golden Bears haven't faced too many strong rushing teams, are inconsistent and they lost their leading tackler, linebacker Devante Downs, to a season-ending injury against Washington State.