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All Sports Archive
Date	Match Up	Rating	Score	Result	Profit	Lead Time	Analysis
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.
10-21-17	Auburn v. Arkansas OVER 52.5		52-20	Win	100	37 h 41 m	Show
Auburn covered this total by itself last season beating Arkansas, 56-3. The Tigers could do it again this season. The Razorbacks have given up at least 40 points in each of their first three SEC games. Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson is a big-time back with 476 yards rushing and seven TD's during his last three games. Johnson leads the nation in rushing touchdowns with 13.
10-21-17	Panthers v. Capitals OVER 6		4-1	Loss	-105	7 h 54 m	Show
Both Florida and Washington are struggling defensively. Both have bad backup goalies who are expected to be in net today. Both teams have above average offenses. That in a nutshell is why I like this game to go Over. The Panthers give up the third-most goals. They are giving up four goals a game and are prey to red-hot Alex Ovechkin, who already has 10 goals and a strong history against Florida with 73 points in 57 career games. Both teams have top-14 offenses. The combined record of Over/Unders between these two teams is 12 Overs and 2 Unders.
10-21-17	Kings v. Blue Jackets -133		6-4	Loss	-133	14 h 60 m	Show
The Blue Jackets are a dominant 31-13 in their last 44 home games. They have one of the best - if not the best - goalie in Sergei Bobrovsky. The price reflects that. But the spot is too good to pass up. Columbus should draw a sellout crowd especially with Ohio State on a bye this week. The Blue Jackets are off a 4-0 loss to Tampa Bay that snapped a four-game win streak. So they certainly won't lack motivation. The Blue Jackets draw the Kings making their first road appearance outside of California since before the season began way back on Sept. 26 and that was to nearby Las Vegas. The Kings also are without Jeff Carter, one of the best centers in the league and an instrumental part of their team.
10-21-17	North Texas v. Florida Atlantic OVER 63.5		31-69	Win	100	117 h 56 m	Show
North Texas is averaging 39.3 points in its last three games. Florida Atlantic is averaging more than 42 points during its last four games. Both teams have their offenses fully in gear and are multi-dimensional. The total opened too low here. The over has cashed in five of Florida Atlantic's last six Conference USA games.
10-21-17	Kentucky v. Mississippi State OVER 54		7-45	Loss	-110	116 h 40 m	Show
We know Mississippi State can run the ball ranking 14th in the country at 261.7 yards per game on the ground. The Bulldogs were impressive in their last game, a 35-10 win against BYU. The Bulldogs put up 546 yards on the Cougars. Kentucky has been a surprise in the SEC. The Wildcats also are off an impressive offensive display putting up 40 points on Missouri. That was a season-high for the Wildcats. I see both team's offenses staying strong in this matchup.
10-21-17	Buffalo v. Miami-OH UNDER 45	Top	14-24	Win	100	33 h 35 m	Show
I'm expecting a lot of running, conservative coaching and playing for field position in this matchup. Neither team has their starting quarterback. Buffalo is down to its third-string QB. And it's not like these were a couple of powerhouse, explosive offenses anyway. Buffalo ranks 70th in scoring. Miami ranks 100th in scoring. Both defenses rank in the top 60 in fewest points allowed. Buffalo trailed Northern Illinois, 14-13, at halftime last week. Final score: 14-13. There was no scoring during the second half. The Bulls rushed for just 39 yards on 27 carries. Miami of Ohio scored only 14 points against Kent State last week, none during the fourth quarter, in a 17-14 loss. Kent State ranks 92nd in scoring defense even counting that victory.
10-21-17	Predators v. Rangers UNDER 5.5		2-4	Loss	-107	7 h 24 m	Show
Nashville doesn't play nearly as wide open on the road. The Predators have scored 14 goals in their three home games this season, but have tallied only five goals in four road contests. The Rangers are off to a terrible start. They are 28th in goals averaging only 2.5 per game. Nashville is playing strong defense holding its last four opponents to four goals. This is a day game. So a sluggish effort by the visiting Predators wouldn't be a surprise with the unusual early start a plus for the Under.
10-21-17	Maryland v. Wisconsin OVER 50		13-38	Win	100	29 h 8 m	Show
Wisconsin was sloppy against Purdue last week. The Badgers won't be against a worn down Maryland defense that has surrendered a combined 99 points to Northwestern and Ohio State during the last two weeks. This is the Terps' third road game in four weeks. The Terps rank 115th in scoring defense. They've allowed 37 or more points in four of their six games. Maryland is going to fall prey to Jonathan Taylor, the latest in a long line of outstanding Wisconsin running backs. Taylor is averaging 7.7 yards per carry and has 986 yards rushing on the season. The Badgers are healthy now at guard. Maryland is a heavy underdog here. But the Terps can come up with their share of points. They are down to third-string quarterback Max Bortenschiager. He has weapons, though, with DJ Moore, who leads the Big Ten in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Moore and Ty Johnson are the only teammates in the country to be ranked in the top 25 in all-purpose yards per game.
10-20-17	Yankees v. Astros -131	Top	1-7	Win	100	41 h 44 m	Show
The Yankees have been dominant at home going 19-3 in their last 22 games at Yankee Stadium. The Astros have been equally dominant at home winning 15 of their last 17 games at Minute Maid Park. This includes a 4-0 playoff record. This game is at Minute Maid Parik. The Yankees are 1-4 in their five playoff road games. Home field certainly means a lot here. But there are other factors why I'm so strong on the Astros in this game. The pitching matchup is Luis Severino versus Justin Verlander. Severino had a breakout season reaching his high ceiling. But he's largely untested in playoff, pressure games. Verlander is a proven pro. The former AL MVP is 10-5 with a 3.18 ERA all-time in postseason action. Verlander has been the absolute nuts since joining the Astros going 8-0 in eight sarts. He's been at his finest during the playoffs, too, going 3-0 with a 2.04 ERA. The Astros finished the regular season with the No. 1 offense in the majors. They are batting a puny .147 in this ALCS. Masahiro Tanaka has been a huge problem for them. Tanaka has held the Astros to two runs in 13 innings. But the Astros aren't facing Tanaka here. The Yankees not only lose their huge home field advantage, but also their momentum with Thursday's travel day. This also gives the Astros a much needed day to regroup. If the Yankees do indeed beat Verlander and the Astros here in Houston, they are most deserving of the American League pennant. I don't see that happening, though, in this Game 6.
10-20-17	Jazz v. Wolves OVER 198.5	Top	97-100	Loss	-105	17 h 21 m	Show
There is too much star power here for these teams not to combine to break 200 points. Yes, Utah plays tough defense. But Minnesota doesn't. The Timberwolves ranked third-from-the-bottom in defensive field goal percentage last season. Adding Jeff Teague and Jamal Crawford isn't going to help their defense. But the Timberwolves do have plenty of offense with Teague, Crawford, Taj Gibson and Jimmy Butler joining Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. The Jazz are down their two leading scorers from a year ago, Gordon Hayward and George Hill. Utah's new point guard, Ricky Rubio, is a former Timberwolf and is better for the Over than Hill was. Rubio will be motivated for a big performance as this is his first trip to Minnesota since being traded. The Jazz have balanced scoring and a strong bench to make up for Hayward. Alec Burks finally is healthy and contributed 16 points off the bench in just 15 minutes in Utah's 106-99 home win against the Nuggets two nights ago. Utah played at a quick pace during preseason when it averaged more than 112 points a game. The Jazz aren't so half-court inclined anymore with Quin Snyder.
10-20-17	Magic +2 v. Nets		121-126	Loss	-105	17 h 50 m	Show
Orlando actually looked impressive in holding off Miami during its opening game victory. That was the first time the Magic had won its season opener since 2012. The Magic really would like to build off that momentum. They have a great opportunity here in their second game. Brooklyn is even worse than Orlando and just lost sparkplug point guard Jeremy Lin. The Nets lost 39 of 46 games that Lin missed last season. It was extremely depressing for the Nets to see Lin ruputre the patella tendon in his right knee during their 140-131 season-opening loss to the Pacers. As you can tell by that score, the Nets still aren't playing any defense. Orlando has the better lineup with Elfrid Payton, Terrence Ross, Even Fournier, Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon, who is primed for a breakout season.
10-20-17	Sharks -110 v. Devils		3-0	Win	100	8 h 25 m	Show
It's not often a spot sets up better for the road team, but it does in this instance. San Jose is rested. This marks the Sharks' first road game of the season. They've enjoyed an extended homestand that ended with a 5-2 victory against Montreal on Tuesday. New Jersey beat Ottawa, 5-4, in overtime on the road last night. This is the Devils' third game in four nights. New Jersey has failed to win six of the past seven times it has played without rest. The Devils have been a major surprise opening the season with a 6-1 record after finishing 29th in the NHL last season with 28 victories. The Devils definitely are improved. They have some promising young talent. They've also been fortunate with four of their victories coming by one goal. The Sharks' Stanley Cup window probably has closed, but they still are a respected, veteran team that definitely is playoff-worthy. It remains to be seen if the Devils can keep up their surprising pace. The Devils are likely to have backup Keith Kinkaid in goal after regular netminder Cory Schneider suffered a lower-body injury last night. The Sharks have dominated this series winning seven of the past nine meetings. They are 5-0 in their last five visits to New Jersey.
10-19-17	Clippers v. Lakers UNDER 220	Top	108-92	Win	100	18 h 5 m	Show
This is a big total that would make sense - if it were posted on a Clippers-Lakers game last season. Things are much different this year. The Clippers don't have Chris Paul. The Lakers have Lonzo Ball. Both are among the reasons I like this game to go Under the total. The Clippers' offense is less explosive minus Paul. That's a no-brainer. But the Clippers' backcourt becomes much more hard-nosed with the change from Paul to rugged Patrick Beverley, one of the best defensive guards in the NBA. Ball is the Lakers' new main man. He's a great passer, but not a high percentage shooter. Ball was limited to only 57 minutes during preseason because of a sprained ankle. He'll play tonight, but will have to deal with Beverley and the pressures of his first NBA game and the super high expectations the home fans have for him. The Lakers gave up the third-most points in the NBA last season. Lakers coach Luke Walton made it a priority during preseason to stress defense. The Lakers allowed an average of 103.5 points per game in their six exhibition games. "...I'm thrilled with the strides they're making," Walton was quoted as saying about the defensive progress his team showed during preseason. The Lakers acheived this without Andrew Bogut, who missed the preseason with a groin injury. Bogut, though, practiced this week and should play. He provides a shot-blocking presence for the Lakers that the Clippers have with DeAndre Jordan, another top defensive player.
10-19-17	Predators v. Flyers OVER 5.5		1-0	Loss	-103	11 h 45 m	Show
These two teams met just nine days ago and the Predators won, 6-5. There should be at least six goals scored in this quick turnaround even if Wayne Simmons doesn't play. Nashville has scored four or more goals in three of its last four games. The Flyers are averaging six goals per game during their last three games. Both teams have offensive-minded defensemen. The Flyers have a young team with fresh legs and an improved speedy fourth line.
10-18-17	Rockets v. Kings +8		105-100	Win	100	15 h 40 m	Show
Sacramento has missed the playoffs for the last 11 seasons. The Kings aren't going to end that playoff drought this season either. But the Kings have better team chemistry and morale after cutting the umblical cord with temperamental DeMarcus Cousins. Sacramento is more team-oriented without their one star The Kings have a blend of promising young talent go with three veterans that were imported - Zach Randolph, George Hill and Vince Carter. These three are pros who know how to win, play hard and have a lot of pride. The Kings should be fired-up for their home opener and they catch the Rockets in a prime letdown spot. Houston rallied to upset the Warriors, 122-121, late last night. It's going to be difficult for the Rockets to produce even a "B" level performance against a foe that is hard to take serious. The Rockets also could be looking ahead to their home-opener, which is their next game.
10-18-17	Wolves v. Spurs -120	Top	99-107	Win	100	18 h 6 m	Show
San Antonio has won the last 11 times these teams have met. Circumstances are different now. The Spurs won't have injured Kawhi Leonard and Minnesota has its best team ever - on paper. Still, I like the Spurs to defeat the Timberwolves. Minnesota added Jimmy Butler and Jeff Teague. They join Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins. Both Towns and Wiggins are used to being top dogs in Minnesota and getting their hands on the ball a lot. The dynamics change now with Butler and Teague coming on board. Butler is a top-15 player. Teague is a very offensive-minded point guard. It's going to take time for this group to jell and get in sync. Opening at San Antonio, one of the toughest venues in the NBA, is a rough way to begin. The Timberwolves have yet to show they can play good defense. The Spurs are the best-coached team in the league. They've added Rudy Gay and LaMarcus Aldridge played well in preseason in filling some of the scoring void without Leonard. The Spurs picked up valuable experience playing without Leonard in the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors. This is a step down for them playing the Timberwolves instead of Golden State.
10-18-17	Nuggets v. Jazz -130		96-106	Win	100	14 h 33 m	Show
Utah finished with the best preseason record in the NBA going 5-0. I see the Jazz in better shape than the Nuggets right now. The Jazz also are home, where they have defeated the Nuggets five consecutive times, including winning two games last season by an average of 16 points. Not only are the Jazz home, but they are one of the best defensive teams in the league and have a strong bench. This was a team that won 51 games last season. The oddsmaker is down on Utah because the Jazz lost their two leading scorers, Gordon Hayward and George Hill. Hayward, though, was more of a complementary scorer not a top dog while Hill missed a lot of games and because of that could never be counted on. Ricky Rubio is more than capable of being a solid point guard for Utah. The Nuggets have an underrated front line. But they are going against the best defensive center in basketball, Rudy Gobert. Denver has a problem at point guard. The Nuggets would like to move away from Emmanuel Mudiay and his poor shooting percentages. They are trying to convert Jamal Murray into a point guard. This key position is a trouble spot for the Nuggets and is likely to hurt them in this matchup.
10-18-17	Red Wings v. Maple Leafs OVER 5.5		3-6	Win	100	11 h 55 m	Show
Given all the rule changes favoring offense and Toronto's fast-paced, top-ranked offense and mediocre defense, it's hard NOT to go over a Leafs game when the total opens less than 6 1/2. The Maple Leafs are averaging 4.7 goals per game. That's the best in the NHL. Toronto has gone Over in five of its six games. Toronto averaged 4.2 goals against Detroit in sweeping the Red Wings last season. Detroit looks improved this season. The Red Wings have a top 12 offense and are averaging four goals a game during their last four matchups. The Red Wings catch a break, too, in that Toronto is going with backup goalie Curtis McElhinney for the first time this season.
10-18-17	76ers +7 v. Wizards		115-120	Win	100	12 h 41 m	Show
Memo to oddsmakers: Tank time is over for the 76ers. Given the 76ers' awesome young talent - all healthy at last - and the horrific injury to Gordon Hayward it wouldn't shock me if the 76ers made a run at the Atlantic Division title this season. Philadelphia finished last season covering 13 of its last 17 road games. The 76ers showed they are serious about winning this season upgrading their bench with veterans J.J. Redick and Amir Johnson to go with Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Markelle Fultz and Dario Saric. The Wizards have failed to cover in their last EIGHT season-openers. Their rotation is down Markieff Morris, which hurts their defense that wasn't very good last season.
10-18-17	Heat -145 v. Magic		109-116	Loss	-145	12 h 35 m	Show
The Heat finished 30-11 last season and begin the season healthy with all of their players back from last season. If it weren't for injuries and a horrendous first half of the season, the Heat would have made the playoffs and maybe even been a post-season factor. Miami has won its last six season openers, including beating the Magic by 12 points last year in its first game. The Heat are a much superior team to Orlando and have a coaching edge, which has added emphasis in a season-opener when both coaches have had ample time to game plan. Miami covered 63 percent of its away games last season. Orlando is headed for the lottery again. The Heat should challenge Washington for the Southeast Division title. Class difference here and the price is right to get involved.
10-17-17	Canadiens v. Sharks -120		2-5	Win	100	9 h 19 m	Show
San Jose is on the decline. But the Sharks still are worthy of respect and they catch Montreal on a four-game losing streak having been outscored by multiple goals in all but one of these losses. The Sharks have played better in their last couple of games. They have owned the Canadiens beating them eight of the past nine times. Montreal's Carey Price is struggling so far with a 3.45 GAA and .885 save percentage. He is 0-4-1 lifetime when playing at San Jose with a 3.59 GAA. Sharks goalie Martin Jones, on the other hand, is 5-1 lifetime against Montreal with a 2.01 GAA and .925 save percentage.
10-17-17	Sabres -114 v. Golden Knights		4-5	Loss	-114	9 h 48 m	Show
Las Vegas opened fast while Buffalo started slow. Now, though, I see those roles being reversed. The expansion Golden Knights are 1-1 in their last two games after opening with three consecutive victories. Buffalo underachieved beginning the season with five straight losses before defeating the Ducks in Anaheim this past Sunday. The Sabres have had some close games and are better than they have shown under Phil Housley. Now that they have their first win under him the pressure will lift. Jack Eichel is the most talented player on the ice. Las Vegas opened with three victories in a row thanks to outstanding goaltending from Marc-Andre Fleury. He's out now, though, with a concussion. I gave Buffalo the edge in goalies with Robin Lehner, who has allowed just six goals in his last seven periods.
10-17-17	Penguins -106 v. Rangers	Top	5-4	Win	100	19 h 49 m	Show
Maybe the Rangers get their problems straighten out here. But I'll back the two-time defending Stanley Cup Penguins at this price against a struggling New York squad that is 1-5 and very much looking for answers. The Rangers have scored only 13 goals in six games of which only one was scored without a man advantage. Rangers coach Alain Vigneault keeps searching for the right line combinations. And now he plans on shuffling the lone line that has been together for all six games. Not helping matters for the Rangers is goalie Henrik Lundqvist still continues to be in decline. The Penguins aren't nearly as strong away from home, but they're still an above average road team. The Penguins have away games against the Panthers and Lightning up next so they don't want to open their road swing with a loss against this struggling foe. Pittsburgh has won in six of its last seven road games against the Rangers.
10-17-17	Maple Leafs v. Capitals OVER 6		2-0	Loss	-115	17 h 19 m	Show
These two high-scoring teams have played a combined 10 Overs and one Under this season. The Maple Leafs lead the NHL in scoring averaging a monster 5.2 goals per game. The Capitals have the league's No. 1 goal scorer, Alex Ovechkin. He has nine goals in six games and has a strong history versus Toronto with 33 goals and 27 assists in 42 games. Both teams are struggling defensively. The Capitals lost one of their best defensemen with Matt Niskanen suffering a hand injury that will keep him out the rest of the month. Washington surrendered eight goals to the Flyers during their last game this past Saturday. That was Washington's first game without Niskanen. Toronto is yielding 3.8 goals per game. The Maple Leafs haven't been playing good defense, nor getting much from goalie Frederick Andersen.
10-16-17	Astros v. Yankees OVER 8.5		1-8	Win	100	14 h 38 m	Show
The Astros and the Yankees were the two-highest scoring teams in baseball during the regular season. They are due to break out after a pair of 2-1 Houston wins during the first two games of this series. The pitching matchup pits Charlie Morton against CC Sabathia. Morton is a middle-of-the-road caliber starter while Sabathia is well past his prime at 37. Morton has a 5.68 ERA in two starts versus the Yankees. Sabathia has a 5.85 career ERA in seven ALCS starts. The switch to Yankee Stadium is huge for the Yankees. They posted an .817 regular season OPS at home compared to .755 away. Joe Girardi also is sending a good message to his young hitting stars by not tinkering with the lineup. He knows the Yankees have the talent to bust out especially with a drop of Morton from past Cy Young Award winners Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander, who handcuffed the Yankees in the first two games of the series.
10-16-17	Astros v. Yankees -124	Top	1-8	Win	100	14 h 37 m	Show
After facing past Cy Young Award winners Dallas Keuchel and Justin Verlander, the Yankees get to square off now against mediocre Charlie Morton. Down 2-0 in this ALCS, the Yankees' season is on the line. The good news is they are home now. The Yankees went 51-30 at home during the regular season. They then went 2-0 versus the Indians at Yankee Stadium after losing the first two road games of that playoff series. Houston is a bit fat and happy after squeezing out a pair of one-run victories at home. The Astros went an amazing 80-37 versus right-handed starters, but were just 21-24 against southpaw starters. The Yankees are starting lefty CC Sabathia. The 37-year-old Sabathia has been solid in the playoffs knowing he's only going to go around five innings. So he doesn't have to hold anything back. Joe Girardi is going to come in with his best relievers knowing this is a do-or-die spot for the Yankees.
10-16-17	Lightning -119 v. Red Wings		3-2	Win	100	7 h 44 m	Show
Nikita Kucherov and goalie Andrei Vasileskiy are both playing at extremely high levels for Tampa Bay. Kucherov has scored in all five of the Lightning's games while Vasileskiy has four wins and a .911 save percentage. The Lightning have won seven of their last nine road games going back to last season. They are fresh as this marks only their second away game this season. Detroit last played at home nine days ago. The Red Wings are coming off a 6-3 win against Las Vegas on Friday night, their second victory in two nights having defeated the Coyotes on Thursday. You have to wonder if the Red Wings did any celebrating during their Las Vegas stay? You also have to wonder about the Red Wings' concentration level having been gone on an extended road trip. The Lightning have dominated this series winning the past seven times.
10-15-17	Chargers v. Raiders UNDER 49.5		17-16	Win	100	11 h 29 m	Show
The total is set high here because Derek Carr is back behind center after suffering a fracture in his back that caused him to miss last week. That type of injury normally keeps a player out 2-to-6 weeks. Carr still has pain in his back. The Chargers have a strong pass rush thanks to Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, who have combined for 12 sacks. That's the most in the league among two teammates. So the Raiders have to be extremely careful with their franchise quarterback. That likely means more running plays and short, quick passes where Carr isn't so much at risk. This will keep the clock moving. Oakland's offense hasn't been in gear. The Raiders have put up only 37 points in their last three games. Amari Cooper and Marshawn Lynch are having terrible seasons so far. The Chargers' success rides on Philip Rivers and he isn't having a good season either. Rivers is completing less than 60 percent of his throws, has five interceptions and ranks just 21st in passer ratings. LA is likely to run more than usual, too, because the Raiders have a trio of undersized linebackers and middle linebacker, Marquel Lee, is out. Another reason not to expect a Rivers-Carr shootout is the Enviornmental Protection Agency has said the air quality is unhealthy for this game, which is being played at the Oakland Coliseum. This is due to the lingering North Bay fires. I look at this circumstance as a plus for the Under because the teams could run the ball more during the final quarter trying to gain the upper hand by controlling the trenches.
10-15-17	Patriots -9.5 v. Jets	Top	24-17	Loss	-110	129 h 8 m	Show
There's actually a bit of line value in taking the Patriots with the Jets riding an improbable three-game win streak. Credit to the Jets for beating the Dolphins and Jaguars. They were fortunate, though, to defeat the winless Browns. The Jets are putting forth an effort. They will give their best shot here in this division rivalry. However, they are no match for the Patriots. The talent gap between these two offenses is the size of the Grand Canyon. Tom Brady remains a top-three quarterback. He's leading the NFL in passing yards and has the second-highest quarterback rating. The Patriots have outstanding wide receivers and excellent running back versatility and depth. Rob Gronkowski should be able to play this week, too. The Jets have a popgun offense made worse in that their best runner, Bilal Powell, isn't expected to play. The Patriots are on extra rest since they played last Thursday. The Patriots' defense finally showed some improvement against a dangerous Tampa Bay offense. Belichick should be able to make further fixes with the added preparation time. The Patriots' disappointing cornerbacks shouldn't have any problems handling the Jets' non-descript wide receivers. This is a kill spot for the Patriots. They're not going to let up against this hated foe either.
10-15-17	49ers v. Redskins OVER 46.5		24-26	Win	100	83 h 41 m	Show
Both team's offenses are heating up. After five games, the 49ers are showing signs of picking up Kyle Shanahan's intrigue schemes and designs. Brian Hoyer is coming off his best game as a 49er throwing for two touchdown passes and 353 yards while compiling a 101.1 passer rating against the Colts on the road last week. The Redskins will be without their elite cornerback, injured Josh Norman. Shanahan and Pierre Garcon, who is having a good year for the 49ers, know the Redskins well. Shanahan was Washington's offensive coordinator from 2010-2013 while Garcon played the previous five seasons for the Redskins. They will know the soft spots in the Redskins' coverage. Kirk Cousins is back on track for Washington. He's 39-for-54 for 585 yards with a five-to-zero touchdown-to-interception ratio in his last two games. The Redskins will be fresh having had their bye last week. The time off has allowed star tight end Jordan Reed to be healthy for the first time this season. The 49ers defense gives up the fifth-most yards per game and is second-to-last in opponent's third-down percentage. San Francisco's defense could get tired early, too. This marks San Francisco's third consecutive road game. It's an early start time, too, for the 49ers. The 49ers defense has had to endure overtime games the past two weeks. They've been on the field 37:17 and 36:15 during the past two games.
10-15-17	Bears v. Ravens -5		27-24	Loss	-105	1 h 17 m	Show
Tough spot for the Bears traveling on a short week. Baltimore plays much better at home. The Ravens are 11-0 versus foes starting a rookie QB against them, which is the case here with the Bears and Mitch Trubisky. Ravens defense is far more intimidating at home. Joe Flacco is having a terrible year, but he's getting better each week as more rust comes off. He can put up enough points against a weak Bears secondary.
10-14-17	Boise State v. San Diego State OVER 46		31-14	Loss	-110	32 h 25 m	Show
This isn't too high of a total for these two teams to go Over considering their respective skill position talent. Boise State has a balanced attack, while San Diego State boasts one of the best running backs in the country, Rashaad Penny. He's rushed for triple digits in his last six games. The Aztecs also have been getting solid production from quarterback Christian Chapman. The over has cashed 14 of the last 20 times Boise State has played on the road.
10-14-17	Nevada v. Colorado State OVER 64		42-44	Win	100	79 h 49 m	Show
Nevada finally got its offense going last week beating Hawaii, 35-21. The Wolf Pack could do some damage against an average Colorado State pass defense that has allowed opponents to complete 61 percent of their throws. The Rams also are vulnerable on special teams having given up two return touchdowns. But what's going to put this game Over the total is Colorado State's offense. The Rams average 506.2 yards a game, which is best in the Mountain West and 14th in the nation. The Rams average more than 33 points a game. Quarterback Nick Stevens has thrown for 1,871 yards, sixth-best in the country. He has a tremendous receiver in Michael Gallup. Nevada isn't going to be able to stop this combination. I expect Nevada to fall behind early and thus play at a fast tempo, which is their style. Given Colorado State's outstanding offense and a fast tempo, look for this game to go Over.
10-14-17	New Mexico +2 v. Fresno State	Top	0-38	Loss	-110	34 h 44 m	Show
Fresno State went 1-11 last season and 3-9 two years ago. But now there actually is bowl talk surrounding the Bulldogs. Why is this? Because Fresno State is 2-0 in the Mountain West Conference. The Bulldogs are improved from last season. But let's not jump ahead of ourselves with this team. Fresno State's two conference victories have been against Nevada and San Jose State, one of the worst teams in the country. Nevada is way down, too, this season. Fresno State shouldn't be favored against New Mexico. The Lobos had a bye last week. They rolled past Air Force, 56-38, two weeks ago in their last game. The Lobos put up 509 yards on just 50 offensive snaps against Air Force. I don't see Fresno State being able to handle New Mexico's unique option schemes. Look for the Bulldogs to get exposed here.
10-14-17	Michigan State v. Minnesota +4.5		30-27	Win	100	32 h 35 m	Show
This spot sets up great for Minnesota. The Gophers opened the season going 3-0 in P.J. Fleck's first year with the school. But Minnesota has lost its first two Big Ten games laying an egg against Maryland and then blowing a fourth quarter lead against Purdue on the road last week. So this is a huge stop-the-pain game for Fleck and the Gophers. They catch Michigan State on the road a second straight week and off a victory against arch-rival Michigan last Saturday. Michigan State was a two-touchdown 'dog in that game. Can you say letdown for the Spartans? I can. It's the first time the Spartans are playing outside of Michigan. Minnesota should draw a huge crowd as this is a night game. The Spartans were a road favorite three times last season. They not only failed to cover each of those games, but lost straight-up. The Gophers hold a key edge on the Spartans in passing and pass defense. Minnesota is averaging nearly three yards more per completion than Michigan State and its defense is giving up 2.3 fewer yards on pass completions.
10-14-17	Ohio State v. Nebraska UNDER 58.5		56-14	Loss	-110	30 h 43 m	Show
Ohio State has a top-10 defense surrendering fewer than 16 points a game. I don't see Tanner Lee and the Nebraska offense doing much against the Buckeyes. Nebraska's defense had been playing better before getting blown out by Wisconsin last week. Prior to that game, the Cornhuskers had held held Northern Illinois, Rutgers and Illinois to a combined 44 points. Another big key here is there is a strong wind factor with gusts around 20 mph. This could mean a lot of extra running.
10-14-17	Maple Leafs v. Canadiens OVER 5.5		4-3	Win	100	12 h 59 m	Show
Playing the Maple Leafs Over the total is getting to be mandatory especially when the oddsmaker opens their over/under at less than 6. Great young offensive talent, an in-your-face up-tempo style and a mistake-prone defense make Toronto a perfect Over team. Each of the Maple Leafs' four games have gone Over. The least amonnt of goals scored in any of these four games was seven goals. Now we have a Toronto-Montreal matchup. The oddsmaker has opened this total at less than 6 because the Canadiens rank second-to-last in goals and have 2015 Hart and Vezina Trophy winner Carey Price in goal. I still see this one going Over. Let's start with the Maple Leafs equation first. Toronto has scored 22 goals, an average of 5.5 per game. That's the best in the league. The Maple Leafs also take the most shots per game and have the second-best power play in the NHL. Price wasn't nearly as good last season as he was in 2015. He hasn't been that sharp this season either giving up nine goals on the last 64 shots he's faced. Montreal can take advantage of Toronto's defensive weakness. Frederik Andersen hasn't been that sharp in goal either for Toronto with a save percentage of .871. The key here is that the Canadiens are going to skate with Toronto rather than go into a defensive shell. This quote from Canadiens coach Claude Julien is telling: "...if you plan on playing on your heels against that team (Maple Leafs) they'll eat you alive, so we are going to be on our toes. It's going to be us pushing them back with our speed, hopefully, and playing with a little bit more engery."
10-14-17	New Mexico State v. Georgia Southern OVER 57.5		35-27	Win	100	28 h 57 m	Show
Georgia Southern has allowed 95 points in its last two games against Indiana and Arkansas State. New Mexico State ranks in the top 30 in yardage and has the offense and quarterback in Tyler Rogers to put up a lot of points against such a weak defense. The Aggies have trouble stopping the run, though, ranking 99th in run defense. Georgia Southern can run the ball with its triple option offense.
10-14-17	Baylor v. Oklahoma State UNDER 68.5		16-59	Loss	-110	13 h 50 m	Show
Baylor is way down this season ranking 103rd in rushing. The combination of this and a large total and extreme weather conditions put me on the Under. There is expected to be heavy winds about to 30 mph. This obviously is going to affect the passing game of both teams forcing more running plays.
10-14-17	Kansas +22.5 v. Iowa State		0-45	Loss	-110	57 h 11 m	Show
Kansas has lost 42 straight road games. I'm not asking the Jayhawks to win here. They just don't have to lose by more than three touchdowns. Kansas actually has covered five of its last six Big 12 Conference games. But I'm banking more on a huge letdown from Iowa State. That certainly would be understandable after the Cyclones stunned then third-raked Oklahoma, 38-31, on the road last Saturday. That was one of the biggest wins in Iowa State history. The Cyclones aren't good enough to celebrate all week and then beat Kansas by more than three touchdowns. Iowa State only beat Kansas, 31-24, on the road last season. Before upsetting Oklahoma, the Cyclones had lost two of three, both at home.
10-14-17	Rutgers v. Illinois -135		35-24	Loss	-135	101 h 21 m	Show
It's not too much to ask Illinois to beat the worst team in the Big Ten, Rutgers, at home. The Scarlet Knights haven't won a road game, after all, since November of 2015. The Illini hold a talent edge on the Scarlet Knights. Illinois has been derailed by quarterback turnovers. I don't see that being as much of an issue against this caliber of opponent especially at home. Rutgers has scored a combined 44 points in its last four games - all losses - against Purdue, Eastern Michigan, Nebraska and Ohio State.
10-13-17	Ducks -115 v. Avalanche	Top	1-3	Loss	-115	10 h 49 m	Show
Colorado is off to a 3-1 start, but I'm far from sold on the Avalanche. Colorado has beaten Boston twice. The Bruins are without a couple of key players and are off to a terrible start. The Avalanche has been bailed out by outstanding goaltending from Semyon Varlamov, who is 3-0 with a 1.67 GAA. However, Varlamov is getting a day off here. Backup Jonathan Bernier will be in net for Colorado. He was in net when the Avalanche lost their lone game, 4-1 to New Jersey this past Saturday. The Ducks are getting healthier as Ryan Getzlaf and Patrick Eaves are both back. They compose the Ducks' top line along with Corey Perry.
10-13-17	Capitals v. Devils OVER 5.5		5-2	Win	100	8 h 50 m	Show
Washington ranking seventh in scoring averaging just under four goals a game isn't a surprise. But New Jersey being No. 2 in the league in scoring at 5.3 goals is a surprise. It's not a fluke, though. The Devils, sparked by rookie Jesper Bratt, are playing a much faster, in-your-face style of hockey this season. The Devils have improved their offensive depth. Their top offensive threat, for instance, Taylor Hall has yet to score. The Capitals have a hot Alex Ovechkin - eight goals in four games - and their third line is bolstered by the return from suspension of Tom Wilson.
10-12-17	Eagles v. Panthers -3	Top	28-23	Loss	-115	65 h 53 m	Show
OK, I'm sold now that Cam Newton is the MVP Cam Newton of two years ago. He's thrown for 651 yards and accounted for seven touchdowns during the last two weeks. Carolina is averaging 30 points during this span. The Eagles' secondary is well below average and their pass rush is down without injured Fletcher Cox. He's missed the last two games and isn't likely to return to the lineup on a short week. Carolina has held five of its last seven opponents to 20 points or less at home. The Eagles are short on running backs with Wendall Smallwood injured and Darren Sproles out for the season. The Eagles also will be without right tackle Lane Johnson, one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL. He suffered a concussion this past Sunday. Philadelphia has failed to cover in seven of its last 10 away contests. It's a big disadvantage for the road team playing on Thursday because of the short week. In the Eagles' case, this is made worse by facing a non-division foe.
10-11-17	Bruins -124 v. Avalanche		3-6	Loss	-124	13 h 47 m	Show
Boston has some key injuries with Patrice Bergeron and David Backes out. But I want the Bruins going for me in this short revenge spot. Colorado is off to a suprising 2-1 start after finishing with the fewest points last season. The Avalanche upset the Bruins, 4-0, at Boston two days ago. The Bruins went through a rigorous practice on Tuesday and won't lack motivation. Bruce Cassidy is cracking the whip and the Bruins usually are solid on the road. They've also won nine of their last 11 games versus Western Conference foes of which Colorado is the worst. The Avalanche hasn't looked that good, especially defensively, despite their winning record. They've received outstanding goaltending from Semyon Varlamov to help them out. Colorado is 6-21 following a victory and has lost 35 of its last 51 home contests. Boston has beaten the Avalanche five of the last six times in Colorado.
10-11-17	Yankees v. Indians UNDER 7.5	Top	5-2	Win	100	13 h 2 m	Show
CC Sabathia hooked up with Corey Kluber in Game 2 of this series. The Indians won that won, 9-8, in 13 innings. Sabathia did his part, though, going 5 1/3 innings allowing two earned runs on three hits. Sabathia is quite familar with Cleveland having spent the first 7 1/2 years of his career with the Indians. He's a big game pitcher and he's backed by a strong bullpen that is rested after being idle Tuesday. The under has cashed in nine of Sabathia's last 12 road starts. Kluber is coming off his worst start in that 9-8 win. I have no doubt, though, that Kluber will pitch a strong game here. He's the best pitcher in the American League and has a strong history against the Yankees. Even with his bad start in Game 2, Kluber still has held the current Yankees lineup to a .184 batting average. Aaron Judge is ice cold. He's 1-for-15 in the series with 12 strikeouts. The Yankees have a lot of young hitters like Judge who have not had this kind of Game 5 playoff pressure. Kluber is going on his normal four days rest. The under is 10-3-1 the last 14 times Kluber has pitched on four days rest. Kluber also is backed by a very strong bullpen. Weather factors favor a low-scoring game, too. Temperatures will be in the low 60s and the wind will be blowing in at around 15 mph.
10-11-17	Devils v. Maple Leafs OVER 6		6-3	Win	100	7 h 43 m	Show
Each of Toronto's first three games have gone Over the total. I'm going to stick with that. Normally 6 is a high total, but not when the Leafs are involved. Their up-tempo approach and young talented offensive players have produced 19 goals with 13 different players scoring at least one goal. So the Maple Leafs could reach this number by themselves! The Devils have young offensive talent, too, that is showing up. New Jersey has scored 10 goals in its two games versus Buffalo and Colorado. The two teams have yet to produce an Under during their past seven head-to-head matchups.
10-10-17	Senators -104 v. Canucks		3-2	Win	100	9 h 14 m	Show
Ottawa is 0-2 losing a pair of shootouts. The Senators are without their two top defesemen, Erik Karlsson and Johnny Oduya. But the Senators are due to win and Vancouver is in a letdown spot. The Cancuks are 2-14 in their last 16 home games. One of those victories was their season-opener, a 3-2 victory against Edmonton this past Saturday. That was a huge win coming in Travis Green's coaching debut. The Senators have fortified their defense with minor league call-ups who sport excellent credentials. Sources tell me these kids can play. Vancouver is 2-10 following a victory. The timing and price are right to back the Senators here.
10-10-17	Red Wings v. Stars -170		2-4	Win	100	5 h 57 m	Show
Now that it has been confirmed Ben Bishop will be in net, I'm going to lay the price with the Stars. Bishop has recovered from a cut above his eye. He had yet to allow a goal on 19 shots against Las Vegas in Dallas' opening game when he was injured. Dallas is 0-2, but has played well. The Stars lead the NHL in shots on goal and fewest shots on goal against. They've had the misfortune, though, of running into two hot goalies. That won't be the case here as the Red Wings are going with backup goalie Petr Mrazek, who was 9-11-4 on the road last season with a 3.15 goals against average and .901 save percentage. I'm expecting a strong bounce back season from the Stars under Ken Hitchcock. This is their chance.
10-10-17	Flyers v. Predators OVER 5.5	Top	5-6	Win	106	12 h 3 m	Show
I like what I've seen of the Flyers' offense so far. The Flyers scored five goals against the Sharks in San Jose to open their season. They were stopped by the Kings, 2-0, in their second game but had 35 shots on goal and then beat the Ducks, 3-2, in overtime this past Saturday. The Flyers had 15 shots on goal in the third period versus the Ducks and would have scored more goals if not for the outstanding goaltending of John Gibson. Wayne Simmons already has four goals. The Predators haven't played well defensively. They've scored just three goals in two games. But Nashville has too many good young forwards to be held down especially now playing at home for the first time where their defensemen are very offensive-minded. The over is 5-1-1 the past seven times these teams have met in Nashville.
10-09-17	Capitals v. Lightning -113		3-4	Win	100	5 h 27 m	Show
This has been a home team series with the host winning 18 of the last 24 times. Tampa Bay catches the Capitals fat and happy after a 2-0 start and looking ahead to a Wednesday home matchup against the Penguins, the team that eliminated them in a seven-game second-round playoff series last season. Alex Ovechkin is the hottest goal scorer in hockey wtih seven goals already. But the Lightning can score, too, and have a very strong first line of Steven Stamkos, Vladislav Namestnikov and Nikita Kucherov. They've combined to put up nine points in Tampa Bay's first two games. The Lightning catch a hge break, too, in that Washington is going with backup goalie Philipp Grubauer instead of star Braden Holtby.
10-09-17	Capitals v. Lightning OVER 5.5		3-4	Win	100	5 h 17 m	Show
Alex Ovechkin is the hottest goal scorer in hockey with seven goals in two games. The Capitals have scored 11 goals in their two games. Tampa Bay is hot, too, on the offensive end scoring nine goals in its two games. The Lightning catch a big break as the Capitals will be resting star goalie Braden Holtby. Getting the start in nets is Philipp Grubauer. This has been an Over series with 19 of the last 26 going above the total.
10-09-17	Devils v. Sabres -126		6-2	Loss	-126	7 h 53 m	Show
Sabres are treating this game very serious having lost their first two games of the season. Jack Eichel is healthy, which makes a huge difference for Buffalo, and Evander Kane has looked good early. The Devils are coming off a 4-1 victory against Colorado this past Saturday night, So this is a quick turnaround for them. New Jersey has a lot of inexperience, The Devils finished last season going 1-6 following a victory. They have a very poor road track record, too, at 17-40.
10-09-17	Edmonton -7 v. Montreal	Top	42-24	Win	100	102 h 35 m	Show
Edmonton overachieved when it opened the season 7-0. But the Eskimos aren't as bad as their current six-game losing streak shows with five of the defeats coming to Calgary, Winnipg and Saskatchewan. Those teams own the three best records in the CFL. Look for the Eskimos to halt their losing streak against Montreal, the worst team in the CFL. The Alouettes haven't been good for a few years. They've struggled offensively, but had a decent defense. Now their defense has fallen apart surrendering an average of 38 points per game during their last seven games, all losses and non-covers. Montreal's offense remains bad, too, failing to break the 20-point barrier in all but one of those seven defeats. Montreal management tried to shake things up firing head coach Jacques Chapdelaine and defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe a couple of weeks ago. That hasn't helped. The Alouettes have lost their last two games by a combined 62 points. Edmonton needs to improve its ground attack. The Eskimos took a key step to doing just that trading for C.J. Gable, who just gained 157 yards on 18 carries and scored two touchdowns for Hamilton last week. Gable should rev up Edmonton's offense. The Eskmos have covered six of the last seven in the series.
10-08-17	Chiefs v. Texans UNDER 45		42-34	Loss	-110	41 h 56 m	Show
Lost in the glare of the recent brilliance of rookies Kareem Hunt and Deshaun Watson is that these are two conservative teams that operate at a slow pace, run the ball a lot and have good defenses. The Texans just could have the best defense in the NFL with J.J. Watt back healthy. This is a sell low on a total that is higher than it should be based in part on the Texans putting up 57 points on the Titans last week and Hunt's fast start. Watson is going to be up-and-down. Justin Houston is getting back to his dominant pass rushing skills of two years when he had 22 sacks. Marcus Peters is a shutdown cornerback. I find Bill O'Brien to be one of the most conservative coaches in the league with a play not-to-lose attitude. On the flip side, I see Alex Smith reverting back to his old check-down, game-manager way of playing especially going against this caliber of defense on the road. Hunt took advantage of a Patriots defense that was far worse than anyone could imagine to put up awesome statistics. He'll find things much rougher here.
10-08-17	Indians -114 v. Yankees	Top	0-1	Loss	-114	14 h 8 m	Show
Masahiro Tanaka is inconsistent. You're never sure what you're going to get from him. That's not the case with Carlos Carrasco. He gets overshawdowed by teammate Corey Kluber, but Carrasco is an elite pitcher. Carrasco has pitched brilliantly on the road going 11-2 with a 2.65 ERA in 17 road outings. He's in tremendous form, too, going 6-0 with a 0.85 ERA in his last six starts. The Indians are the hottest team in baseball winning 44 of their last 52 games. The price is right to back them against what has to be a demoralized Yankees squad. Joe Girardi picked a bad time to turn in maybe the worst managed game of the season this past Friday. The Yankees blew a five-run lead in what turned out to be a 9-8 loss in 13 innings. Girardi not only lifted CC Sabathia too early, but failed to challenge an obvious miscall by the umpire that Lonnie Chisenhall had been hit by a pitch. In the process, Girardi put his bullpen in a serious fatigue spot for this game with Dellin Betances likely unavailable. Those bad decisions by Girardi clearly cost the Yankees the game.
10-08-17	Packers v. Cowboys -135	Top	35-31	Loss	-135	151 h 21 m	Show
The Packers could get away with their massive amount of injuries and patchwork offensive line against the lightweight Bears at home last week. But Green Bay is in big trouble against this caliber of foe on the road. The balanced Cowboys can attack Green Bay's youthful secondary and mediocre linebackers through the air with Dez Bryant, who burned the Packers with nine catches, 132 yards and two touchdowns in the playoffs last season, and on the ground with Ezekiel Elliott and highly mobile QB Dak Prescott. The Packers surredered 141 yards on the ground and 5.2 yards per carry in their lone road game this season, which was at Atlanta. This is a huge revenge game for the Cowboys, who fell to the Packers on a 51-yard field goal at the gun in the postseason, 34-31. Dallas is going to get its points again. The Packers aren't going to be able to keep up with their first five offensive tackles all injured. The Packers got past the Bears using four guards and a center. Lane Taylor, an average guard, played left tackle last week. Justin McCray, a converted guard, played right tackle. Unheralded Lucas Patrick made his NFL debut at left guard. Demarcus Lawrence has become a passing rushing terror for the Cowboys leading the league in sacks. The Packers also could be without their No. 1 running back, Ty Montgomery, and starting wide receiver Davonte Adams. This puts way to much of a load on Aaron Rodgers, who averages less than two touchdow throws per game on the road compared to averaging nearly three touchdown passes when playing at Lambeau Field.
10-08-17	Astros -135 v. Red Sox		3-10	Loss	-135	9 h 11 m	Show
You can pull the fork out now. The Red Sox are cooked. The Red Sox have injuries and I don't trust their frame of mind. The Astros have destroyed Chris Sale and Drew Pomeranz in winning the first two games of this playoff series. Don't look for Doug Fister to save Boston. He's given up 17 earned runs in his last four starts spanning 16 2/3 innings allowing 24 hits and seven walks. The Astros are batting .343 in the series and have smashed six homers. Houston starter Brad Peacock has given up two earned runs or less during his past seven starts. Houston is 12-4 in Peacock's last 16 road starts. Boston is 1-4 in Fister's last five starts at Fenway Park.
10-08-17	Astros v. Red Sox OVER 9.5		3-10	Win	100	9 h 11 m	Show
I see these teams reaching double-digits in scoring with the series coming to hitter-friendly Fenway Park where the weather forecast is for the wind to be blowing out to left and center at a crisp 18 mph. The Astros had the best offense in baseball during the regular season and they've stayed hot during the first two games of the series batting .343 with six homers. Houston lit up Chris Sale and Drew Pomerantz. The Astros should destroy Doug Fister, an over-the-hill veteran turned journeyman who has surrendered 17 earned runs in his last four starts spanning 16 2/3 innings. Boston could do its share of damage against Brad Peacock, who is 1-2 with a 9.00 ERA lifetime versus the Red Sox. Peacock has an 8.53 ERA in 12 2/3 innings pitching at Fenway Park. Mookie Betts is expected to play for the Red Sox.
10-08-17	Jets v. Browns +1		17-14	Loss	-114	80 h 49 m	Show
I never thought I would be writing these words this season, but the Jets are going for their third win in a row. Don't expect them to get it. The Jets have defeated the Dolphins and Jaguars in overtime last week. Both wins were achieved at home. They have their bigget game of the season going next week when they host the Patriots. This marks the Jets' lone road game during a four-week span. The Browns' roster is better than one AFC team - the Jets. Cleveland's defense will be bolstered by the return of lineman Myles Garrett, the No. 1 overall draft pick. It's an added bonus if nose guard Danny Shelton and linebacker Jamie Colllins also are able to play. The winless Browns have a much stronger sense of urgency than the Jets for this one and they are home. It's not too much to ask Cleveland to simply win this game against a team where they hold a talent edge on in the offensive line and defensively. The Jets are one of the few teams that also doesn't hold an edge against the Browns skill position-wise.
10-08-17	Jaguars v. Steelers -8		30-9	Loss	-110	80 h 48 m	Show
The Steelers play much better at home particularly Ben Roethlisberger, whose passer rating is 24 points higher at Heniz Field since 2014. During the past four years, Roethlisberger has a 62-20 touchdown-to-interception ratio at home compared to only 24-to-23 on the road. Le'Veon Bell is coming off his best game after a slow start rushing for 144 yards and two touchdowns against the Ravens. Bell should be in line for another big game versus a Jacksonville defense that ranks last in run defense allowing 165.5 yards on the ground per game. Bell's running should set up Roethlisberger's play-action. The Jaguars seem better coached just because they've figured out their best way to win is run the ball and let Blake Bortles be a game manager rather than a gunslinger. The Jaguars' defense has gotten better. But it's not strong enough to carry a weak offense. The Steelers are intimidating and play with a swagger defensively at home. Their offense can put up points fast taking the ball out of Leonard Fournette's hands and forcing Bortles to beat them. That won't happen in Pittsburgh. Bortles has been the most turnover-prone quarterback in the league with a knack for throwing pick-sixes. The Jaguars had to lose a lot of confidence by being outplayed and losing to the lowly Jets last week. This is a kill spot for the Steelers. They've buried much stronger teams that the Jaguars at home.
10-08-17	Bills v. Bengals -150		16-20	Win	100	33 h 17 m	Show
The Bills have overachieved and are in a flat spot following a stunning upset road win against the Falcons last Sunday. This marks Buffalo's third road game in four weeks. The Bengals need this win bad to go to 2-2. They've been much better the past two weeks since a change in offensive coordinators nearly upsetting Green Bay on the road last week falling in overtime. Joe Mixon is a highly talented rookie running back. He's due for a breakout performance. It could come here at home. The Bengals are idle next week so a full effort should be forthcoming. There's also a revenge angle. The Bills nipped the Bengals, 16-12, at Cincinnati last season. Mike Nugent missed a pair of extra points for the Bengals and they lost the indespensible A.J. Green early in that contest.
10-07-17	Golden Knights v. Coyotes -168		2-1	Loss	-168	8 h 3 m	Show
Normally I don't like to lay this high of juice. But I want to fade the Golden Knights following their huge upset win last night against Dallas. Las Vegas shaded the Stars, 2-1, as goalie Marc-Andre Fleury came up with 45 saves. Fleury likely will be rested in this game. If the 32-year-old plays, he'll be tired. Arizona is pumped for a home victory after blowing a three-goal in a 5-4 road loss to Anaheim this past Thursday. The Coyotes' offense looked good in that game, though. Vegas doesn't have enough offense to take advantage of the Coyotes' defensive weaknesses.
10-07-17	Alabama -25.5 v. Texas A&M		27-19	Loss	-110	28 h 2 m	Show
Alabama has outscored SEC foes, 125-3, this season. The Crimson Tide should win this game by at least four touchdowns. Texas A&M has an inexperienced secondary that ranks near the bottom giving up nearly 300 passing yards a game. Alabama should have no problem rolling up 500 yards with its balanced attack. I wouldn't be surprised at all if Texas A&M failed to score a touchdown against the Crimson Tide. The Aggies are starting a true freshman quarterback, Kellen Mond. Alabama gives up the fewest points in the country and ranks second in run defense. Mond doesn't have a good offensive line nor receivers to rely on.
10-07-17	Kansas State v. Texas UNDER 49.5	Top	34-40	Loss	-116	41 h 15 m	Show
A makeshift offensive line and resurgent defense have made Texas a strong under team. The under has cashed in the Longhorns' last three games. Texas is giving up only 11.3 points and less than 300 yards during its last three games, the last two having been against Iowa State and USC. The Longhorns, though, are struggling offensively because they are without their two starting tackles, one of which is All-American Connor Williams. The Longhorns also are without Andrew Beck, their best blocking tight end. Texas quarterback Shane Buechele is back in action, but he's less than 100 percent due to a sprained ankle. Kansas State ranks 15th in fewest points allowed at 15 per game. The Wildcats also are 21st in total defense. The last four meetings in this series have gone under, including the one last year in which Kansas State won, 24-21.
10-07-17	Wild +125 v. Hurricanes		4-5	Loss	-100	6 h 9 m	Show
Minnesota has won seven of the last eight meetings between the two teams. The Hurricanes haven't made the playoffs during the past eight years and I'm not convinced they've improved themselves for this season. I also question if Scott Darling is a starter-worthy goalie. The Wild are coming off a frustrating 4-2 loss to the Red Wings on Thursday. The Wild are the better team so I'll take a plus price with them.
10-07-17	Army v. Rice OVER 47		49-12	Win	100	49 h 28 m	Show
Army ranks No. 3 in the country in rushing, but this is that rare game where the Black Knights can also move the ball by passing. Yes, Rice's defense is that bad. The Owls are giving up nearly 34 points a game and more than 300 yards per contest. Rice should look better on offense as Army is not a good road team. The Black Knights are 85th in run defense.
10-07-17	Air Force v. Navy UNDER 51.5		45-48	Loss	-110	119 h 56 m	Show
These teams met last year and Air Force won, 28-14. Navy won, 33-11, two years ago. The under has cashed the past five times these teams have met. A big factor why these two teams haven't been able to break a combined 45 points is they both run the same triple option offense. So each is totally familiar with that type of attack. Lots of running plays also keeps the clocking moving. Air Force ranks 88th in yards gained, but is 31st in yards allowed. Navy has seven defensive starters back from last year and decent depth. Only 36 teams have given up fewer yards per game than the Midshipmen.
10-07-17	Kent State v. Northern Illinois UNDER 46		3-24	Win	100	24 h 8 m	Show
A terrible offense, a star punter and projected bad weather sets up this under. Kent State is averaging 11.4 points a game. The Golden Flashes are going with two quarterbacks, George Bollas and freshman Dustin Crum against Northern Illinois. Don't expect much as Northern Illinois ranks No. 5 defensively in yards per play. Kent State's best player is punter, Derek Adams. He ranks eighth in punting average at 45.8. Kent State also has horrendous defensive numbers. But those statistics have been skewed by having to play Clemson and Louisville. The Golden Flashes are better defensively than they are on offense and they'll be aided by what could be terrible weather conditions as heavy winds are projected. That could lead to more running for Northern Illinois, which has a bigger game on tap next week on the road against Buffalo.
10-07-17	Avalanche v. Devils -120		1-4	Win	100	2 h 36 m	Show
I don't see Colorado pulling off a second road upset within the span of three days. The Avalanche aren't helped by the early start time here making this almost a back-to-back spot. Colorado was 9-30-2 on the road last season. The Devils should be improved this season and goalie Cory Schneider is due for a rebound season after an off-year last season.
10-07-17	Pittsburgh v. Syracuse OVER 64		24-27	Loss	-110	115 h 25 m	Show
It was insane when these two teams met last year. There were 137 combined points and 1,312 yards of offense. Pittsburgh's defense is terrible again this season. The Panthers are giving up 31.6 points a game and 441.2 yards. Syracuse has surrendered 35 points to LSU and 33 to North Carolina State in its last two games.
10-07-17	Pittsburgh v. Syracuse -150		24-27	Win	100	21 h 7 m	Show
Pittsburgh isn't very good and a victory against Rice last week doesn't change that. The Panthers rank among the bottom 30 teams in defense and their offense averaged 17.3 points against Penn State, Oklahoma State and Georgia Tech. Syracuse has the weapons to take advantage with quarterback Eric Dungey and wide receiver Ervin Phillips, who is coming off a school-record 17-reception, 188-yard receiving game against North Carolina State. The Orange are constantly underrated by the oddsmaker. They have covered their last three games beating the spread by a combined 38 points.
10-06-17	Golden Knights v. Stars -1.5		2-1	Loss	-100	21 h 40 m	Show
The Stars still have offensive stars with Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, Alexander Radulov and Martin Hanzal. Now their defense should be improved with Ken Hitchcock as coach and Ben Bishop in goal. Look for the Stars to be much improved after a highly disappointing season last year. The Golden Knights are making their NHL debut - and it's on the road. The Golden Knights went for youth and defense in their expansion draft. I don't see them keeping up with the Stars here.
10-06-17	Cubs v. Nationals OVER 7	Top	3-0	Loss	-120	16 h 4 m	Show
Both pitchers, Kyle Hendricks and Stephen Strasburg, pitched well down the stretch. But postseason baseball is different and 7 is too low of a total considering the caliber of these offenses. The Cubs scored the fourth-most runs in the majors this year. The Nationals were fifth in runs scored. Both teams are healthy with their key bats in place. Bryce Harper and Trea Turner have had enough bats to get the rust off.
10-06-17	Red Sox +170 v. Astros		2-8	Loss	-100	11 h 52 m	Show
There is a lot of value taking Boston at this plus price. Lefty Drew Pomeranz isn't getting enough respect here. He went 7-3 with a 3.19 ERA on the road this season and was 1-0 with a 1.46 ERA in two starts against Houston. Pomeranz is in good form, too, giving up fewer than two runs in three of his last four starts. The Astros are just 21-24 against lefthanded starters. The Red Sox have won 17 of the last 21 times Pomeranz has pitched versus an above .500 team. I like Dallas Keuchel. But he last pitched way back on Sept. 26. Houston is 2-6 the last eight times Keuchel has pitched with nine or more days rest. Boston has the superior bullpen, too, with a 3.15 ERA compared to Houston's bullpen ERA of 4.27.
10-05-17	Flyers v. Kings OVER 5		0-2	Loss	-124	13 h 59 m	Show
The Flyers proved they can score opening the season with a 5-3 road win against San Jose Wednesday night. The Flyers, though, are vulnerable on defense. The over has cashed the past five times the Flyers have played without rest. The Kings should be more wide open this season with a coaching change to John Stevens. New rules meant to increase scoring such as anti-slashing should help offenses, too.
10-05-17	Red Sox v. Astros -121	Top	2-8	Win	100	26 h 4 m	Show
Chris Sale hasn't been an underdog all season - until now. There's good reason for this. Sale is worn down. This isn't the star lefty who went 14-4 with a 2.51 ERA during his first 24 starts, but the southpaw who is 3-4 with a 4.30 ERA during his past eight starts. Sale surrendered four homers to the Blue Jays in his last start. Sale is facing an opponent that led the majors in runs and batting average while finishing No. 2 in homers. The Astros also compiled the second highest OPS versus southpaws. On the flip side, Houston starter Justin Verlander is pitching his finest ball going 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA in five starts with the Astros. Unlike Sale who has no playoff experience, Verlander is a proven postseason performer with a 3.39 ERA in 16 career playoff starts. The Astros have the stronger offense and the better pitcher going. The price is lower than it should be based on Sale's reputation. That reputation, though, should just be for the first four months of the season not October.
10-05-17	Red Sox v. Astros OVER 7		2-8	Win	100	26 h 3 m	Show
Even with two big name pitchers going, this total is too low considering how strong the offenses are. Houston led the majors in nearly all the major offensive categories, including runs and batting average. The Astros also hit the second-most homers. Boston doesn't have Houston's power, but the Red Sox finished 10th in runs. The Red Sox know how to manufacture runs. While Justin Verlander has pitched well in all five of his Houston starts, Boston starter Chris Sale has been terrible down the stretch going 3-4 with a 4.30 ERA in his last eight starts. Sale has surrendered nine homers during his past five starts. It's certainly not too much to ask these offenses to produce at least three runs apiece. Sale is not the Sale he was early in the season. Verlander has been pitching great, but he's past his prime.
10-04-17	Rockies v. Diamondbacks UNDER 8.5	Top	8-11	Loss	-100	19 h 25 m	Show
Jon Gray and Zack Greinke enter this matchup in good form and with strong track records. Since this is a one-and-done scenario, starting pitchers will be available to pitch if needed in the later innings. The Diamondbacks are heavy favorites so the game is likely to go 8 1/2 innings instead of nine. Please note, too, that the roof will be closed at Chase Field. That's a huge plus for the Under. Gray should be fresh having been limited to 20 starts due to early-season injuries. Only twice did he allow more than three earned runs in his starts. He has a 2.44 ERA since the beginning of August. Greinke regained his elite form with a strong comeback season going 17-7 with a 3.20 ERA and 1.07 WHIP. Greinke has a 215-to-45 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Opposing hitters are batting only .207 against Greinke at Chase Field. Both teams lack playoff experience so that could affect the offenses, too.
10-04-17	Maple Leafs v. Jets OVER 5.5		7-2	Win	100	19 h 42 m	Show
These are two high scoring teams that will be aided by new rules favoring offense such as stricter enforcement on slashing. The last 10 meetings between these two teams have all gone Over. The Maple Leafs were fifth in scoring and had the No. 2 power play. Their youthful roster only is going to get better. The Jets ranked seventh in scoring. However, the Jets were 27th defensively. It would not surprise me to see this total move up to 6 so now is the time to get down.
10-03-17	Twins +1.5 v. Yankees	Top	4-8	Loss	-105	29 h 58 m	Show
The Yankees have loads of young talent. But that young talent is now on the playoff stage for the first time with all the pressure on them. The Twins aren't flashy. They don't have the power, or rising superstarts, the Yankees do. But they don't beat themselves and are tough on the road going 44-37. The pitching matchup is 23-year-old Luis Severino, making his first playoff start, against veteran Ervin Santana. This isn't a fade on Severino, who had his breakout season. But more a value play to get 1 1/2 runs with the Twins figuring Santana will keep them in the game. Santana went 10-3 on the road with a 2.71 ERA in 17 away outings. He's been solid versus the Yankees the past three seasons posting a 3.16 ERA in 25 2/3 innings.
10-01-17	Giants +3 v. Bucs		23-25	Win	100	98 h 48 m	Show
The Giants are in must-win mode at 0-3. They should have beaten the Eagles last week. The Giants allowed the second-fewest points in the NFL last season and their defense remains top-rate. Offense has been a major problem for the Giants. But things should click better now that Odell Beckham Jr. is healthy. The timing is good here for the Giants because the Buccaneers have a cluster injury problem on defense with their top defenders injured. Likely out for sure are linebackers Lavonte David and Kwon Alexander. The Buccaneers also could be missing their two best defensive linemen, Gerald McCoy and Chris Baker, along with cornerbacks Brent Grimes and Vernon Hargreaves. Promising pass rusher Noah Spence also is hurt with a separated shoulder. Eli Manning has never lost to Tampa Bay going 5-0. The Buccaneers have failed to cover eight of the last nine times when laying more than two points. The Giants won 11 games last season on their way to making the playoffs. The Buccaneers last made the postseason in 2007. The timing is ripe here for the Giants to get back on track against an inconsistent Bucs offense and extremely banged-up defense.
10-01-17	Eagles v. Chargers		26-24	Loss	-115	97 h 25 m	Show
At 0-3 this is the Chargers' season. They catch the Eagles off a big division win against the Giants in which the Eagles were outgained by nearly two yards per play. The Chargers easily could be 2-1 instead of 0-3 if not for kicking mistakes by rookie Younghoe Koo. Philip Rivers is a high level QB. He's coming off one of the worst games of his career with a 37.2 passer rating and three interceptions against the Chiefs. I believe Rivers will bounce back strong here against an Eagles defense that is vulnerable in the secondary due to injuries and probably will be without its best defensive lineman, injured Fletcher Cox. The Chargers have a huge receiving edge with Keenan Allen and Travis Benjamin operating against Rasul Douglas and Jalen Mills. The Eagles lost their most versatile threat and a top punt returner when Darren Sproles was injured against the Giants and lost for the season. Philly struggles to run the ball. Sproles was their best player in space. Carson Wentz has been sacked 11 times. Sparked by Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, two of the top pass rushers in the league, the Chargers have recorded 11 sacks.
10-01-17	49ers +7 v. Cardinals		15-18	Win	100	23 h 6 m	Show
The Cardinals have allowed Carson Palmer to be sacked 11 times, the fourth-highest total in the NFL. Palmer could have more trouble now that the left side of his offensive line has been ruled out as neither left tackle Mike Iupati nor left guard Alex Boone will play. Boone is out with a pectoral injury while Iupati was put on IR. Palmer is past his prime and doesn't have his security blanket, David Johnson. The absence of Johnson greatly weakens not only the Cardinals' ground attack, but also its passing. Johnson is the best pass catching starting running back in football. Arizona's receiving corps is banged-up, too, as neither John Brown nor JJ. Nelson are 100 percent. The 49ers got their offense going against the Rams scoring 39 points while finally showing a grasp of Kyle Shanahan's new offense. The 49ers' defense is improved from last year and better than it showed against the Rams, who are the most improved offensive team in the league. The 49ers have had extra rest and practice time having last played a week ago Thursday. The Cardinals, on the other hand, are on a short week having played this past Monday night. The Cardinals haven't been very good at home either failing to cover 12 of their last 18 home games.
10-01-17	49ers v. Cardinals UNDER 44.5		15-18	Win	100	23 h 5 m	Show
The Cardinals' offense is missing superstar running back David Johnson and the left side of their offensive line with Alex Boone and Mike Iupati out. Carson Palmer is past his prime and his receivers are banged-up. The 49ers' defense is improved from last year and better than it showed last week against the Rams. San Francisco's offense is a work in progress. The 49ers have scored fewer than 10 points per game during two of their three games. The 49ers' best offensive player, running back Carlos Hyde, isn't 100 percent. The Cardinals' defense gets back linebacker Deone Bucannon for the first time this season.
10-01-17	Tigers +133 v. Twins		1-5	Loss	-100	8 h 2 m	Show
I like the value here. The Twins have clinched a playoff spot and will be resting regulars just like on Saturday when Brian Dozier and Byron Buxton didn't play. Oh, yes, Bartolo Colon is starting for Minnesota. The washed-up 44-year-old is 0-3 with a 13.50 ERA in his last four starts. Tigers starter Anibal Sanchez is in much better form turning in quality starts during his last three outings. Sanchez has allowed four earned runs in 18 innings during this span.
10-01-17	Bengals -3 v. Browns	Top	31-7	Win	100	96 h 56 m	Show
The Bengals are down this year. But they still are two levels higher than the Browns, who are 1-18 in their last 19 games. The Bengals have dominated this series winning and covering the last five times with every win during this span occurring by at least 13 points. Cincinnati has a much stronger defense than Cleveland and its skill position players are superior, too. The Browns have no wide receiver near the level of A.J. Green. Corey Coleman is Cleveland's top wideout and he's out. Joe Mixon also is better than any running back Cleveland has. I'm not an Andy Dalton fan, but he rates much higher than rookie Deshone Kizer. Dalton has thrown nine TD passes with no interceptions during his last four games against the Browns. The Browns were missing their best defensive player, linebacker Jamie Collins, last week due to a concussion. It's an added plus for the Bengals if Collins is out again.
10-01-17	Rams +6.5 v. Cowboys		35-30	Win	100	29 h 34 m	Show
Did you know the Rams are leading the NFL in scoring? It's true. After averaging a league-low 14 points last season, the Rams are putting up 35.7 points per game. The key is monster improvement from second-year quarterback Jared Goff. He was hindered by Jeff Fisher's neanderthal coaching last year. New coach, QB guru Sean McVay, has helped raise Goff's passer rating from 63.6 to 118.2. That's the largest increase ever for a QB going into his second season. Todd Gurley is a major factor now that defenses no longer can stack the line against him. The Cowboys have injuries in their secondary and are coming off a Monday night road win against the Cardinals. This is a short week for the Cowboys and a flat spot for them. Dallas hosts the Packers next week in a marquee matchup.
10-01-17	Saints -150 v. Dolphins		20-0	Win	100	93 h 3 m	Show
The Dolphins are not at the stage the Saints are. The Saints have a dangerous offense thanks to Drew Brees and their defense proved respectable against a struggling offense, Carolina, last week. The Dolphins aren't in sync. They haven't had time to get Jay Cutler up to speed because of Hurricane Irma. This marks Miami's third straight away trip. The Dolphins won on the West Coast against the winless Chargers then flew coast-to-coast where they were manhandled and embarrassed by the Jets, the worst team in football. Now they have to fly overseas to London. The lack of practice and coehision really showed last week with the Dolphins as they were shut out by the Jets until the final play and outgained by more than 111 yards. Brees gets Willie Snead back from suspension and can easily light up a weak Miami secondary. The Saints have covered in 10 of their last 12 away contests.
09-30-17	San Jose State v. UNLV -12	Top	13-41	Win	100	93 h 18 m	Show
UNLV received a lot of bad publicity for losing to Howard in its first game. The Rebels were caught looking ahead to a revenge game against Idaho the following week. The Rebels beat Idaho and then were bashed by Ohio State this past Saturday. But now there couldn't be more of a difference as the Rebels go from on the road against the Buckeyes to hosting San Jose State. The Spartans are one of the worst teams in the country. The Rebels are a borderline bowl team. They can't afford a loss here and are aware of the spread after losing to Howard as a 45-point favorite. The Rebels have the offense to pour it on the Spartans, who give up 45.2 points per game and whose defense has been on the field the most of any team in the country by a wide margin. Utah State just beat the Spartans by 51 points this past Saturday. UNLV isn't strong defensively, but San Jose State averages fewer than 17 points a game and has quarterback problems. This is a lay-up game for the Rebels and they won't take their foot off the gas with the recent loss to Howard still fresh.
09-30-17	South Carolina v. Texas A&M OVER 49		17-24	Loss	-110	48 h 8 m	Show
I'm not buying a total this low in a game involving Texas A&M. The Aggies are averaging 40.8 points a game, while surrendering 30.8. The Aggies went Over the total by 35 points in their game against Arkansas last week. South Carolina's offense is much better than it has shown the past couple of games. The Gamecocks have had ample opportunity now to ajust to losing star wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
09-30-17	Air Force v. New Mexico OVER 49.5		38-56	Win	100	47 h 46 m	Show
This total is lower than I expected. Perhaps because rain is in the forecast. But temperatures are going to be in the upper 70s with little wind expected. These are two of the top rushing teams in the nation. Air Force ranks 11th while New Mexico is 20th. The past four meetings in the series have gone Over. Expect a fifth straight Over. There isn't anything fancy going on. Just two excellent rushing teams.
09-30-17	Padres v. Giants OVER 8.5		3-2	Loss	-101	5 h 20 m	Show
This is a special game for the Giants because it's the last start for Matt Cain, who is retiring when the season finishes Sunday. Cain has had a nice career with the Giants. But there's a reason he's retiring: He's a shot pitcher. Cain has nothing left. Sentimentally doesn't retire hitters. Cain is 3-11 with a 5.66 ERA on the season. Padres starter Jhoulys Chacin has been much worse on the road where he's 4-7 with a 6.93 ERA. Both pitchers have been bad in day games. Chacin has a 4.78 day time ERA while Cain is 0-4 with an 8.06 ERA when he's pitched during the day. There's about a 10 mph wind blowing out to help the hitters, too.
09-30-17	Navy v. Tulsa +7.5		31-21	Loss	-115	33 h 53 m	Show
The line is inflated because Navy is 2-0 in the American Athletic Conference already and Tulsa went 1-3 in non-league and is off a bad home loss to New Mexico. The Golden Hurricane, though, are much better than how they looked against the Lobos. They've also played the tougher schedule going against a pair of high-powered offenses in Oklahoma State and Toledo. Navy is a one-dimensional option team. Tulsa has a balanced attack with quarterback Chad President and D'Angelo Brewer, who will be the best running back on the field. If the Midshipmen key on Brewer, President can hurt them through the air. Navy ranks 81st in pass defense. Tulsa has yet to play its best game. I say it comes here at home in their AAC opener.
09-30-17	North Carolina v. Georgia Tech OVER 58		7-33	Loss	-110	40 h 14 m	Show
Georgia Tech's triple-option attack is humming. The Yellow Jackets lead the nation in rushing yards. North Carolina ranks 87th in run defense and 113th in overall defense. North Carolina quarterback Chazz Surratt is progressing. He passed for 259 yards against Duke last week and also rushed for 77 yards. North Carolina ranks 35th in passing. The Tar Heels are 1-3, but have led in the fourth quarter in all four of their games. There were 68 points scored in last year's game. There were 69 points scored when the two teams met in 2015 and 91 points scored in 2014.
09-29-17	White Sox v. Indians -1.5	Top	1-10	Win	100	7 h 36 m	Show
The Indians are 34 games ahead of the White Sox in the AL Central. Cleveland is 41-10 in its last 51 games. But don't expect the Indians to coast. That's because they are only one game ahead of Houston for the No. 1 seed in the AL playoffs. The key here to avoid such heavy juice is to lay 1 1/2 runs with the Indians. Cleveland's last five victories have all been by more than one run. That should be the case again today in a pitching matchup of Mike Pelfrey versus Trevor Bauer, who has finally lived up to his vast promise. Bauer has 16 victories and been a moster during the second half of the season going 9-1 with a 2.69 ERA during his last 13 appearances, including 12 starts. It's a mystery how Pelfrey stays in a big league rotation. He's one of the worst starters in baseball. He's 3-11 this season with a 5.52 ERA. He's made three appearances against the Indians this season and is 0-2 with a 7.36 ERA. The Indians faced him three weeks ago and got to him for seven runs on eight hits in four innings. The White Sox have lost 37 of their last 52 road games and are 0-7 in Pelfrey's last seven starts.
09-28-17	Bears v. Packers UNDER 45.5	Top	14-35	Loss	-110	69 h 49 m	Show
The Bears have the worst wide receivers in the NFL. The Packers are going to be forced to scale their passing attack way down due to injuries to their top five offensive tackles. The result should be an Under, which would be the fifth time in the last six meetings played in Green Bay between these two teams that Under would cash. Aaron Rodgers has been sacked 13 times, most in the NFL, due mainly to the absence of his starting offensive tackles, David Bakhitari and Bryan Bulaga. They've yet to be on the field at the same time. Both of their fill-ins are hurt, too. In desperation, the Packers just signed Ulrick John from Arizona's practice squad. He could actually start. This being a Thursday game is a terrible break for the Packers. Not only does the short week hurt the Packers getting their deep back-up offensive tackles up to speed, but they may not have Randall Cobb either. He's their top slot receiver. This cluster injury problem at offensive tackle and the short practice time means the Packers are going to be forced to run more than usual. This is not a strength. Green Bay ranks 29th in rushing. The Packers have yet to find a capable backup behind starting running back Ty Montgomery. They let James Starks go during the offseason, drafting three rookie running backs, none of which have distinguished themselves yet. Both teams are well-coached defensively. The Packers rank in the top 10 in fewest yards allowed. The Bears have held the high-scoring Falcons to 23 points and Steelers to 17. Their defense has surendered six touchdowns versus three good offenses - Falcons, Buccaneers and Steelers. The Bears, though, average only 15.7 points a game. Not only is their receiver group the worst in the NFL, but Mike Glennon is a total stiff at quarterback. Straight out of the Brady Quinn check-down school, Glennon completed one pass to a wide receiver against the Steelers this past Sunday. That was a nine-yard pass on a third-and-16 in the fourth quarter. Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen are going to get a ton of carries, which will run the clock and keep Rodgers and Co. off the field.
09-28-17	Texas v. Iowa State UNDER 64		17-7	Win	100	16 h 14 m	Show
The perception is for a shootout to happen here. I don't see that occurring. Texas' defense has shown much improvement during its last two games shutting out San Jose State and holding high-powered USC to 17 points in regulation. The Longhorns are going to be looking to run the ball more than usual. That's because of injuries in their offensive line and an unsettled quarterback spot where either freshman Sam Ehlinger or a rusty Shane Buechele will be the quarterback. Iowa State leads the Big 12 in sacks per game so it has the capability to take advantage of the Longhorns' makeshift offensive line.
09-28-17	Twins v. Indians -1.5		2-5	Win	100	1 h 12 m	Show
Cleveland is the hottest team in baseball winning 30 of its last 33 and Carlos Carrasco is one of the hottest pitchers going 5-0 with a 1.52 ERA in his last six starts. Carrasco is 2-0 with a 1.59 ERA in two games against Minnesota this season. The Indians are 9-2 in his last 11 home starts. The Twins did a lot of celebrating last night after clinching a playoff spot. They are going to be very flat especially with this being a very early start time. The Twins' bullpen is overworked and starter Ervin Santana has a far more important start next week when he faces either the Yankees or Red Sox in the playoffs.