10* Clippers (ASSASSIN)

I like the Clippers to, at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. LA is off the 110-100 home loss to the Heat. The Clippers have now lost three straight, which is significant to note in our case here as LA is 7-3 ATS in its last ten after three or more SU losses in a row. With a game at Minnesota tomorrow, the Clippers are going to have to put their full focus on Denver tonight. They also play with the added incentive of revnge here after falling 114-104 to the Nuggets back in November. Denver just had its five-game win streak snapped in a listless 124-111 setback at Minnesota. Cleveland comes to town tomorrow, and I say the Nuggets do get caught looking ahead to that one vs. the red hot Donavan Mitchell. The outright is possible, but the official will be to grab the points with LA!

AAA Sports

10* Texas State (SUN BELT GOY)

These two teams are on opposite ends of the spectrum in this conference, but that's only helped in adding a few points extra onto this Texas State spread than normal. The Bobcats are 7-8 after a tight 55-52 loss to Troy on New Year's Eve. James Madison has been great, it's 11-4 after a 72-66 outright win over Marshall in its last game as 4.5-point dog. But I think the Dukes get caught complacent here now facing their lowly opponent. Texas State only averages 65.7 PPG, but it makes up for it on the other end by allowing just 65.5. James Madison is averging 89.7 PPG, while allowing 65.3. But I think the Dukes take the foot off the gas here in the second half. Look for Texas State's tough defensive play to keep it in this game late. No outright upset or anything, but a comfortable cover here for Texas State!

AAA Sports

10* Hornets (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a great spot for hungry Charlotte. The Hornets are coming off B2B blowout home losses to the Nets and Lakers, but with a four-game upcoming road-trip, they'll be eager to snap that slide and to also avenge a 130-99 loss to the Grizz back in early November. Note that Charlotte is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to avenge a SU/ATS loss against an opponent in which it was held to 99 or less points in. The Grizz have been great. They're 23-13 overall, but note that they're just 8-10 on the road. They're off three straight SU/ATS victories in a row, which is significant to note in our case as Memphis just 1-4 ATS in its last five after three or more SU/ATS wins in a row. And with a game at Orlando tomorrow night, this also sets up as a "look-ahead" spot for the visiting side; no outright, but closer than expected, the play is Charlotte!

AAA Sports

10* Georgetown (DESTRUCTION)

I like the 5-10 Hoyas to keep this one close down the stretch vs. 7-7 Villanova. The Wildcats are off a disappointing 68-66 home loss to Marquette as 2.5-point favorites, and with a game at home vs. 12-3 Conference leading Xavier this weekend, not only does this set up as a natural letdwn sport for the visiting side, but also as a "look-ahead" position as well. Letdown + look-ahead = trap game! Georgetown averages 73.8 PPG, despite an 80-51 loss to Butler last time out. Villanova averages 70.3 PPG. Of course, the difference comes on the defensive end, but I think the Hoyas are catching the Wildcats at an opportune time. In a game that I see coming down to the wire, I'm grabbing the points!

AAA Sports

10* Boise State (MW GOY)

After three straight victories, I think the SJSU comes back down to Earth here in this difficult road venue. San Jose State is coming off a 78-70 win over Colorado State to move to 11-4. Boise State is 10-4, but 0-1 in league play. The Broncos come in as the much more motivated side after B2B losses, including a 74-72 setback to Nevada last time out. Despite the Spartans recent success, they're still averaging just 69.8 PPG, while allowing 65.5. The Broncos though are on a different level in my estimation, as they average 70.7 PPG, while conceding just 59.4. Boise State's schedule has been much more difficult and off the consecutive losses, I look for the Broncos to take out their frustrations on the Spartans and keep the foot on the gas until the final buzzer sounds; the play is Boise State!

AAA Sports

10* Central Arkansas (ASUN GOY)

When these two played last February, FGCU won 95-93 in OT and I'm expecting another tighter battle here tonight as well. Florida Gulf Coast is off the 72-65 win over Jacksonville. They average 72.5 PPG, while allowing 66.4. Central Arkansas is only 5-9 after an 82-68 loss to Kennesaw State last time out. Central Arkansas has so far averaged 72.9 PPG, while allowing 80.4. The offense of Central Arkansas will keep it competitive late, and while I'll stop short in calling for an outright upset, everything points to a comfortable ATS cover in my opinion; grab the points, the play is Central Arkansas!

AAA Sports

10* Georgetown (BIG EAST GOM)

The Bulldogs are 8-5, but they're off a 72-52 loss to Providence as 3-point favorites. I think that Butler will once again have it hands full here on the road against Hoyas team looking to rebound off a tight 83-78 loss to DePaul as a 3.5-point underdog. Butler only averages 69.9 PPG, second lowest in the conference. Georgetown is averaging 75.8 PPG, but it's conceding 77.5. That said, the Hoyas catch a break defensively tonight facing this inconsistent Butler offense. This one means more to Georgetown. After a hot start Butler is cooling off; while I do think the outright is possible, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can with Georgetown!

AAA Sports

8* SMU (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Tulsa is 4-8 and SMU is 5-8. The Golden Hurricanes have lost all their bluster though, as they've lost seven of their last nine games, failing to cover in any of those matchups. Most recently it was an 89-50 defeat to Houston. On the year Tulsa is averaging 67.4 PPG. SMU is trending in the other direction. It's managed two wins in its last three games. Most recently it was an 58-57 loss to Hawaii in the Championship Game fo the Diamond Head Classic. The Mustangs are battling right now and I think they take out their frustrations here on the Mustangs. SMU is averaging 68.2 PPG and I think its much better defensively as well. Or at least, this is a great matchup for it. SMU holds an average marging of victory of nine poitns over the last ten in this series and I expect that trend to continue; lay the points, the play is SMU!

AAA Sports

10* Milwaukee (HORIZON LEAGUE GOM)

Milwaukee enters at 8-5. I'm going to stop short in calling for an outright upset, but all signs point to this game coming "right down to the wire." Detroit is 6-8, and 4-0 at home, but I think the Titans'll have their hands full today. The Panthers won't be lacking motivation after starting out 1-4 on the road. They fell 83-61 at Oakland most recently. Detroit is coming off a win over Green Bay, but previous to that it dropped three in a row. These team's offensive and defensive numbers are similar. Look for the hungry Panthers to, at the very least, keep this one close enough to earn the comfortable ATS victory; grab the points, the play is Milwaukee!

AAA Sports

10* Michigan State (BEST OF BEST)

I think the 6-6 Bulls, who are 0-2 on the road, will stumble and fall here after winning five of their last seven. MSU is 4-1 at home already, and it comes in red hot after three straight victories. The Bulls were blown out in both of their road games already this season and everything points to another beatdown here; look for MSU's defense to be the big differnce-maker and lay the points with confidence!

AAA Sports

l0* CSU Bakersfield (BIG WEST GOY)

UC Riverside won its last game, beating Portland at home, but I think it'll get caught "looking past" its lowly opponent tonight. Cal State won't be lacking for motivation today after falling 56-48 to Fresno State. This is a battle of strengths, as the Highlanders have the better offense, while the Roadrunners have the better defense. But with a tougher game at Long Beach State up next, I think the home side'll get caught looking ahead and ultimately take the foot off the gas in the second half. Look for the hungry visiting side to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch; grab the points, the play is CSU Bakersfield!

AAA Sports

10* Colorado State (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Colorado State is 8-5 and New Mexico is 12-0. I'm not calling for an outright upset here, but I do think the stage is set or a much closer/tighter battle than what this spread is suggesting. The Rams look to rebound off a 73-64 loss at USC. They average 76.2 PPG. New Mexico is averaging 84.5 PPG after smoking Prarie View A&M by a score of 94-63. But note that New Mexico is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after a SU/ATS home win in which it score 90 or more points in. Look for the Rams underrated defense to keep this one close down the stretch; grab the points, the play is Colorado State!

AAA Sports

10* Pistons (ASSASSIN)

No need to overthink this one. Orlando had been the "hottest" team in the league up until last night's blowout home loss to the Lakers, winning ten straight ATS and going 8-2 SU. Now playing the second game of a B2B, I'm expecting a predictable letdown here vs. this desperate Pistons side. Detroit hits the road after this for a five-game road trip, so that puts added importance onto this contest for the home side. The Pistons held the lead in their last game vs. the Clippers for almost the the entire contest, but then allowed LA to tie it up and of course when it went to OT, Detroit failed to cover with the 6.5 points. With a chance to erase that frustrating setback from their memories, here's the perfect opponent to get untracked against; grab the points, the play is Detroit!

AAA Sports

10* Pelicans (NON-CONF GOW)

Here's a great revenge play. After two straight upset road wins, I think the Pacers take a step back here tonight in New Orleans, especially as they get caught "looking ahead" to their contest at home vs. the Pacers tomorrow night. The Pels are off a 128-125 OT road at OKC. They're 13-4 at home and they do indeed play with revenge here after falling 129-122 at Indiana back on November 7th. Look for the Pacers to come out flat-footed here and for the Pels to take advantage; lay the points, the play is New Orleans!

AAA Sports

10* Washington State (ULTIMATE BEATDOWN)

George Washington is 6-4 and Washington State is 4-6. This is part of the Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic Tournament. The Colonials are coming off an 83-71 win over Coppin State, while the Cougars fell 65-59 to Baylor as ten-point dogs. Previous to their most recent win, the Colonials had lost two straight. They're averaging 75.7 PPG, while allowing 70.4. Washington State is averaging 70.3 PPG, while allowing 63.9. WSU has played the stiffer competition and I think it'll finally take advantage of this favorable matchup and keep the foot on the gas from start to finish; lay the points, the play is Washington State!

AAA Sports

10* Rockets (ASSASSIN)

Orlando had its six-game win streak snapped on Monday, falling to Atlanta, and I think it'll have a predictable letdown here vs. this hungry Rockets side. Houston won't be lacking motivation here after a 124-105 loss to the Spurs on Monday. Remember that despite their recent success, the Magic are stil just 3-12 on the road this year. Houston has in fact lost three in a row, and this is a game that it'll feel it can win outright obviously. Orlando returns home for the Holidays after this and I think it gets caught looking ahead; clearly the outright win is a possibility, but grab as many points as you can with Houston!

AAA Sports

10* BC (ACC GOM)

Virginia Tech is 11-1, while Boston College is 6-6. VT is coming off a very satisfying 80-72 win over UNC to kick-off Conference play, and I think it'll have a bit of a mental letdown here in the second half against BC, leaving the back door wide open for the hungry home side to sneak in through down the stretch. BC is coming off a 75-59 loss at Duke. The Hokies' numbers, including their record, are a bit skewed as well, as their non-conference strength of schedule was just 288th in the country. BC just ended a four-game slide with a 63-56 win over Stonehill. Now that the Conference schedule has arrived, we'll see these teams numbers normalize moving forward. I'm not calling for the outright or anything, but say the stage is set for a dramatic battle until the end; grab the points, the play is Boston College!

AAA Sports

10* TEXAS A&M CC (UPSET SUPER SHOCKER)

I think that 7-4 Oklahoma State will get caught "looking past" its lowly opponent here to its X-Mas break and then its big matchup vs. Kansas before the New Year. Corpus Christie is now 6-5 after its 104-69 win over Schreiner. The Cowboys have been trading ATS wins/losses over their last six games, and I expect this pattern to continue. Corpus Christie is averaging 64.5 PPG, while allowing 72.5. OKS is averaging 70.8 PPG, while allowing 61.8. But as I mentioned, I do indeed feel this sets up as a "trap" for the home side; no outright, but closer than expected so grab the points with Texas A&M!

AAA Sports

10* Pelicans (EAST-CONF GOW)

After three straight up and ATS losses in a row, I love the Pelicans to bounce back here at home finally against the Bucks. The Pels most recently fell 118-114 at Phoneix. That was three straight ATS/SU road losses in a row (note though the New Orleans is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more SU/ATS setbacks in a row.) The Pels are 12-3 at home. The Bucks are 7-5 on the road. Milwaukee is off the 123-97 home win over Utah, but I think they'll have their hands full here in the opener of this five-game road trip, which continues at Cleveland, Brooklyn, Boston and Chicago. For many reasons, I believe this game means so much more to New Orleans; grab the points, the play is the Pels!

AAA Sports

10* South Dakota (GOW)

South Dakota has lost three straight, and I expect it to break that slide and find a way to deliver here on the road Monday. The Coyotes are coming off a tight 89-88 loss to Coastal Carolina. The good news was they made 50 percent of their shots from the floor, including 48.5 percent from range. Expect this deadly accuracy to be the difference-maker tonight. KC is five games under .500 following a six-point loss to Green Bay, shooting only 35.9 percent. The Coyotes are 8-1 ATS in their last nine vs. teams with losing SU records, while the Roos are just 1-4 ATS in their last five following an ATS loss; the play is South Dakota

AAA Sports

10* Colorado State (BEST OF BEST)

Colorado State is 7-4, while Saint Mary's is 9-3. The Rams are coming off a 115-72 home win over lowly Peru State College, but I think they'll take that confidence and momentum on the road with them here and keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Saint Mary's is coming off a win over New Mexico State. Colorado State has the offense to hang with the Gaels, but so far the Rams have struggled on the defensive end. That's the difference here, but I think that the Gaels will get caught looking past their lowly opponent today towards the X-Mas break, leaving the back door wide open for the hungry visiting side to comfortably sneak in through down the stretch; grab the points the play is CSU!

AAA Sports

10* Vanderbilt (UPSET SUPER SHOCKER)

I think the 5-5 Vanderbilt Commodores will, at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably cover with the handful of points they've been afforded. NC State is 9-3, but I believe it'll have its hands full here in the Legends Of Basketball Showcase in Chicago this evening. Vanderbilt lost a tough game to Grambling 64-62 despite winning the rebounding battle 37 to 29. They're a great defensive team and I expect a rebound here. NC State's opening schedule was weak. It now enters having lost two of its last three. They're coming off a 92-73 win over Furman, but this is a huge step back up in competition. NC State's offensive numbers are a bit skewed in my opinion, as ultimately I feel these teams are much more evenly matched than what this spread is suggesting; grab the points, the play is Vanderbilt!

AAA Sports

10* Weber State (MAULING)

Weber State is just 3-7, but I think it'll give 5-4 Cal Poly Slo everything it can handle tonight. Weber State broke a five-game slide with an 82-58 win over St. Martin's last time out. The Wildcats are averaging 65.8 PPG, while allowing 71.3. Dillon Jones leads the nightly charge with 65.8 points per game. Cal Poly is 5-4 after a 74-68 loss to Washington last time out. The Mustangs average 66.8 PPG, while allowing 64.1. Alimamy Koroma averages 12.8 points and 5.2 boards per game. Both teams have been challenged early in their sechedules. The Wildcats won't roll over here. I say this one comes down to the wire; grab the points, the play is Weber State!

AAA Sports

10* Raptors (ASSASSIN)

I just think the more desperate team is going to dig deep here and find a way to deliver. Brooklyn is 17-12 afrer its 112-100 win over the Wizards. The Nets have played better since firing Steve Nash. They've had three nights off though and I think rest will lead to rust this evening. Toronto is now 13-15 after its disappointing 124-123 home loss to the Kings as five-point favorites on Wednesday. That's now three straight losses for the Raptors. Note though that they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. Finally, the Raptors also play with the added incentive of revenge here after a 114-105 loss to the Nets at the start of the month. So I think in a small way this sets up as a letdown spot for the Nets, while at the same time, this is a "gut check" for the Raptors. We've reached the point of the season where your record begins to reflect "who you are" as a team. Clearly, Toronto can not be happy where it's at at the moment. While the outright win is clearly a possibility, I'll ultimately recommend to grab as many points as you can; the play is the Raptors!

AAA Sports

10* Suns (SHOCKER)

Whether Devin Booker plays or not, I like the way this one sets up for the Suns. Phoenix is still 16-12 after its 111-97 loss at Houston. That's now five straight SU/ATS losses in a row for the Suns, who are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after five or more SU/ATS losses in a row. Phoenix beat LA 112-95 at the start of the year. And after three straight SU/ATS victories for Paul George and the Clippers, I'm expecting a predictable letdown here finally (note as well that LA is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight after three or more ATS victories in a row.) In a contest that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points; the play is the Suns!

AAA Sports

10* Santa Clara (BEST OF BEST)

I think this one favors 9-3 Santa Clara. The Broncos lost this game last year by a score of 69-64, but I expect them to dig deep here and to snap a six-game losing slide in this series. UC Irving is 7-3 after a road win over South Dakota. The Anteaters are now averaging 80.1 PPG. The Broncos average 72.8, but their superior defensive play is the difference-maker for me in this contest. Lay the short-points, but expect a decisive win; the play is Santa Clara!

AAA Sports

10* Georgia State (UPSET SHOCKER)

Auburn is now 8-1 after a poor loss to Memphis on Saturday, and I think it could still be mentally caught up on that setback. Ultimately I believe Georgia State will have an opportunity to comfortably sneak in through the back door. It's basically a TRAP game, because after this they have a game at the 7-3 Washington Huskies, so I also think the Tigers could be caught looking ahead to that much more high-profile contest. Bruce Pearl's team has been great, but they were held to just 38.1 percent shooting from the floor from Penny Hardaway's Memphis side, and that included just 25 percent from range. The Tigers were also outscored 50-24 in the paint. So far Auburn is averaging just 73 points per game, which is 173rd in the country. If the Tigers are going to repeat as SEC Champions, then they're going to have to try and find some more offense. Georgia State is just 5-4 and it's coming off a 66-46 loss to Northeastern on December 4th. The 20 point loss was the Panthers worst of the season (but note that Georgia State is 7-2 against the spread in its last nine after a straight up and againast the spread loss of 20 or more points.) Clearly Auburn is the better team, but I just think this is a bad spot for the Tigers and a great one for the Panthers. I'm obviously not calling for the outright upset, but I do think the stage is set for a tighter battle than what this spread is suggesting; grab the points, the play is Georgia State!

AAA Sports

10* Magic (EXPRESS)

Yes the 14-14 Hawks could REALLY use a win here after losing four of their last five, but the problem is is that they have no chemistry and are playing terribly. That's good news for the surging Magic. Orlando is just 8-20, so after three straight SU/ATS wins in a row, it can ill afford to take the foot off the gas. These teams are moving in different directions and the oddsmakers are slow in recognizing. Orlando plays with revenge as well after a loss to ATL in late November. While the outright is a possibility, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the Magic!

AAA Sports

10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

Boston is 21-7, while the Lakers are 11-15. The Celtics have seemingly "run out of gas" though on this Western swing, having lost both games to the Warriors and to the Clippers just last night. I think they stumble again here as the favorite. The Lakers ended their road trip with a convincing 124-117 win at Detroit. They've been playing a lot better behind fantastic play from Anthony Davis. With a night's rest, I think LA has a legitimate shot at winning this game outright. That said, let's grab the points; the play is the Lakers!

AAA Sports

10* Rhode Island (MAULING)

Umass Lowell River i scoming off a 68-59 win over St. Francis. It's averaging 82.2 PPG, but so far the Hawks haven't played anyone of any significance. Rhode Island is now 3-7 after a 77-67 win over Army as a 7-point favorite. The Rams average 64.9 PPG. Their strength of schedule definitely has been more difficult though. Let's not overreact to early numbers. This is a game which Rhode Island can win outright, but I think we're getting a gift here with the points; the play is the Rams!

AAA Sports

10* Monmouth (SHOCKER)

Outright win? Of course not. I just think that the 1-9 Monmouth Hawks will comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the large spread they've been afforded here. Syracuse is 6-4 after its big 83-64 home win over Georgetown. It has a home game against Cornell up next. I think the home side will go up early, and then take the foot off the gas in the second half. Monmouth averages 61.5 PPG, while Syracuse averages 73.3. Expect a much tighter game here than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe; grab the points, the play is Monmouth!

AAA Sports

10* St. Francis (MAULING)

Outright victory? I'm not calling for that. But I do think that the backdoor will be left wide-open for the visiting side to comfortably sneak in through down the stretch with the large amount of points that it's been afforded here. St. Francis comes into this game with a 3-7 record. So far the Red Flash average 74.2 PPG, while allowing 74.3. Hawaii is 5-3. It averages 67.5 PPG, while allowing just 59.8. The Red Flash offense will test Hawaii here and it's the difference-maker in the end. Despite how well the Warriors are playing defensively, I'm expecting a much tighter game than what this spread is suggesting; grab the points, the play is St. Francis PA!

AAA Sports

10* Suns (ASSASSIN)

Off a 128-117 loss here just two nights ago, I like the visiting side to bounce back and to find a way to deliver here in this revenge scenario. Note that the Suns are 5-1 ATS in their last six in trying to avenge a SU/ATS loss against an opponent. New Orleans is in unchartered territory right now with a big target on its back with the No. 1 record in the West at 17-8. With B2B games at Utah after this, followed by another game at the Suns after that, I believe the home side gets caught looking ahead; look for the revenge-minded Suns to, at the very least, take this one right down to the wire and grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* Warriors (ASSASSIN)

Boston is 21-5. It'll have "revenge" on its mind here, but I don't think that'll be enough to beat the defending champs in their own building tonight. Boston is off the 125-98 win at Phoenix. It plays the Lakers and Clippers after this. Golden State is the more motivated side here off a 124-123 loss at Utah three nights ago. While only 13-13, the Warriors are still a near-perfect 11-2 at home this season. Golden State and Stephen Curry won't be going down without a fight here in this important non-conference matchup. In a game that I see being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points; the play is the Warriors!

AAA Sports

10* Louisville (ACC GOW)

We have a couple of really poor teams colliding here in ACC action on Saturday afternoon. Louisville is 0-8 SU/ATS, while FSU is 1-9 SU and 3-7 ATS. Louisville is only averaging 57.4 PPG, while Florida State is averaging 65.5. These teams are both terrible defensively. Both have more questions than answers. I have no trust whatsoever that Louisville can pull off a road upset, but at the same time, I don't trust the Seminoles either to cover such a large spread. For this selection, expect it to be a tight competitive affair throughout, but grab the points; the play is Louisville!

AAA Sports

10* Minnesota (BIG TEN GOY)

I love the way this one sets up for the Golden Gophers. This is Michigan's first true road game of the season and I think it'll struggle in this difficult road venue. The Wolverines return from their 73-69 loss to No. 19 Kentucky in London as well, so travel and the fatigue factor becomes an issue as well. UM has lost three of the last four in this series as well. This is a big game for Minnesota, playing here at Williams Arena for the first time since Nov. 17th. Last year Minnesota beat the Wolverines 75-65 in Ann Arbor for the first time since 2011. The average margin of victory between these teams over the last ten games is 3.2 points. This one will be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last; so grab the points, the play is Minnesota!

AAA Sports

10* Spurs (ASSASSIN)

Two really bad teams collide on Thursday night, and only one can come out the winner. I think that'll be the Spurs tonight on their home floor. Houston is off a rare 132-123 OT home win over Philly, and I think it'll have a predictable letdown here. After this the Rockets return home for four straight, starting with the Bucks, so I also say they get caught "looking ahead" here. "Letdown" + "look ahead" = "trap game!" The Spurs have lost ten straight. But off B2B home losses in which they've failed to reach the 100-point plateu, I expect the home side to come out fired up tonigth. They're off the 133-95 home loss to the Suns, but note that they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine off a SU/ATS home loss in which they were held to 95 or less points in. Look for San Antonio to finally deliver here in front of the home town crowd!

AAA Sports

10* Florida (UNDERDOG OF MONTH)

Florida is 6-3 and UConn is 9-0. This is going to be a competitive battle, one which I see being decided by whichever of these talented teams has its hands on the ball last. The Huskies are coming off a 74-64 win over Oklahoma State. So far UConn is averaging 82.9 PPG, while allowing 58.7. The Gators come in off an 89-51 win over Stetson. Florida average 81 PPG, while conceding just 69. Yes, UConn is 8-0-1 ATS in its last nine overall, but looking back finds is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine true road contests. The underdog is 4-0 ATS the last four in this series head-to-head and as I stated off the top, while the outright win isn't out of the question, I'm going to grab the points in a contest that has all the makings of a competitive "nail-biter;" the play is Florida!

AAA Sports

10* Wyoming (ULTIMATE BLOWOUT)

For a number of different reasons, I expect Wyoming to lay a beating on Texas A&M Commerce. Wyoming is 3-5 and Texas A&M Commerce is 4-5. The Lions are coming off a 93-84 loss to Denver. They're averaging 70.1 PPG, while allowing 66.3. Their level of competition needs to be taken with a "grain of salt" though to thi s oint. Wyoming is coming off consecutive defeats to Santa Clara and Grand Canyon. The Cowboys are averaging 72.3 PPG, while conceding 69.9. Wyoming though has faced much stiffer competition. This is a great matchup for the Cowboys, and because of their difficult start, I don't expect them to take the foot off the gas at all tonight. With the home side keeping the pdeal to the metal until the final horn, all signs point to a lop-sided destruction; lay the points, the play is Wyoming!

AAA Sports

10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

The Lakers have been playing great. At some point they're going to have a letdown, but they play with revenge here and I look for them to, at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Cleveland won 114-100 in LA a couple of weeks ago. With two whole nights off before a game vs. Sacramento here, the home side gets caught looking ahead as well. The Cavs' two game win streak was snapped with a listless 92-81 loss at New York last time out. LA smoked the Wizards 130-119 last time out. They've won eight of their last ten. They've scored 128, 133 and 130 points over their last three games. The King always "gets up" for games against the Cavs, especially in Cleveland; grab the points, the play is the Lakers!

AAA Sports

10* Pacers (NON-CONF GOW)

Indiana is 12-11, and Golden State is 13-11. The Warriors aren't having any issues scoring, but they haven't been able to find any consistency on the defensive end this year. The Pacers have been better than most thought, and they've been able to take advantage of team's "looking past" them a few times already this season. And that's going to be the case here in my estimation as well with the Warriors, who hit the road for a game at Utah after this, followed by games vs. Boston and Milwaukee. Golden State is off the "rocking chair" 120-101 victory here at home over Houston, but I expect it to leave the back door wide open here for this Pacers team that's averaging 115.1 PPG, ranked in the Top 10. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points, the play is Indiana!

AAA Sports

10* North Dakota State (MAULING)

The North Dakota State Bison come in "under the radar" here after starting 1-8 and on a four-game slide. That includes a 78-70 loss to Eastern Washington on the road in their most recent. But I think the 7-4 Pilots will come in complacent here and "look past" their lowly opponent today after a 90-69 home win over North Dakota in their most recent outing. If we looked only at these team's offensive and defensive numbers, then we'd come to the conclusion that the Pilots are the much better team. And they are. But this is a bad spot for them to cover this many points. I think the Bison keep this one close enough for sure to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch; the play is North Dakota State!

AAA Sports

10* Stanford (PAC 12 GOY)

Stanford is now 3-5 after an 80-66 home loss to UCLA in its most recent action. The Cardinal average 66.5 PPG. Arizona State is 7-1. It's coming off an upset 60-59 road win at Colorado as a 4.5-point underdog and I think a predictable letdown is in the cards here tonight for the home side. The Sun Devils are averaging a slightly better 72.2 PPG. ASU comes in a bit complacent here and also gets caught looking ahead to its neutral site game against Creighton next week. It's a "trap" for the Sun Devils. No such luxury for the Cardinal though. Stanford is struggling on offense, but makes up for it defensively in holding opponents to just 65.4 PPG. I think this is going to come down to the wire, as I said off the top, I think this is a great "spot" for the visitors; grab the points, the play is Stanford!

AAA Sports

10* Bulls (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a great spot for the Bulls to bounce back in. Chicago is only 9-13, including 4-8 on the road. I think it sneaks in under the radar here though after B2B road losses, most recently a 119-111 loss at Golden State. The main reason I like the Bulls here though is that the Kings played, and won 123-96 at the Clippers just last night. Sacramento averages 120 PPG, which ranks second, but its defense is poor. The Kings are going to struggle with fatigue here in the second game of the back-to-back and while I clearly think the outright win is a possibility, my official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the Bulls!

AAA Sports

10* Fresno State (NON-CONF GOM)

Outright win?! While anything is of course possible, my official call here will be to grab as many points as you can with the 1-5 Frenso State Bulldogs. The UC Irvine Anteaters are 6-2 and I think they come out complacent here and get caught "looking past" their lowly opponent this evening to two weeks off, before a conference matchup at 6-2 Santa Clara. Clearly, the Bulldogs don't have the luxury to look past anyone or to take the foot off the gas at any point in this game. I like betting on motivated teams. I think the Anteaters are primed for a classic letdown. I'm banking on this one being a lot more competitive than what this spread is suggesting; grab the points, the play is Fresno State!

AAA Sports

8* Tulsa (SPECIAL)

Oral Roberts is 5-3 and Tulsa is 2-4. I think that home floor can't be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this one. Oral Roberts is coming off a loss to Utah State. It averages 84.1 PPG, but its competition to this point needs to be taken into account. Tulsa is off a loss to Oklahoma State. Overall the Golden Hurricane are averaging 70.2 PPG. Their schedule to this point has been more difficult. This is a battle for the PSO Mayor's Cup, and I think Tulsa will correct some of its issues and, at the very least, take it right down to the wire; grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* Spurs (ASSASSIN)

The Pels have been great this year, they enter at 13-8. They're just 5-5 on the road though. The Spurs are 6-16 and just 3-8 at home, but after seven straight ATS losses and nine straight SU losses, and also playing with revenge here after a 129-110 loss at New Orleans a couple of weeks ago, I love the home side to, at the very least, keep this one competitive enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch (note that the Spurs are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in trying to avenge a 15 points or greater SU/ATS loss vs. an opponent. New Orleans is off two straight home wins. It has a night off after this before a four-game home stand, starting with red hot Denver. I say the Pels get caught "looking ahead." The outright is a possibility, but the official call will indeed to grab as many points as you can with the Spurs!

AAA Sports

10* Merrimack (MID-MAJOR MAULING)

These teams are evenly matched. They always play to tight, competitive affairs, as the last two head-to-head matchups have been decided by a grand total of just three points. We can expect a similar battle until the end tonight, and that's why I'm definitely grabbing the points in this matchup. BU has now dropped three in a row, so it comes in with zero momentum. Merrimack may only average 56.4 PPG, but it's only allowing 56.3. I think Boston is completely over-priced here, so I'm grabbing the points; the play is Merrimack!

AAA Sports

10* Illinois State (MID-MAJOR MAULING)

Outright victory? I'm not calling for that. But I definitely think that this spread is a few points too large. Illinois State is 2-5. It's on a four-game SU losing streak after a 57-44 home loss to Rhode Island. The Racers are the better team, but they're just 3-3 after Saturday's 69-66 road loss to Chatanooga. So far the Redbirds are averaging 61.3 PPG, while allowing 67. Murray State is averaging 76.3 PPG, while allowing 70.5. I think Illinois State's defense will keep this one competitive enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch; grab the points, the play is the Redbirds!

AAA Sports

10* FSU (BLOOD-BATH)

This of course is part of the BIG 10/ACC Challenge. Outside of the Final Four Tournament, many college basketball fans enjoy this stretch of the season more than any other. Regardless, for this one we have two teams on completely opposite ends of the spectrum. Purdue is 6-0 straight up and 4-2 against the spread, while Florida State is 1-7 straight-up and 1-7 against the spread. The Boilermakers already have wins over Duke, Gonzaga and West Virginia. They've held three teams to under 60 points so far this season. Zach Edey is the main man, averaging 21.7 points and 12 rebounds per game. Florida State has had a miserable start to its season. Its only win was against Mercer. The Seminoles have actually failed to score 60 points in four of their seven games. One bright spot has been the play of Caleb Mills who averages 12.6 points and 3.2 assists per game. This isn't about picking a straight up winner. This is about which team can cover with the spread, and for me, I just think that the public hammering the Boilermakers left right and center. just whenever they're playing now, while at the same time they see how much Florida State has struggled, and both of those factors have combined to make this spread a few points larger than it really should be; I'm going to grab the points with FSU!

AAA Sports

10* Grand Canyon (MID-MAJOR MAULING)

Alcorn State is 3-4 SU, and Grand Canyon is 5-2. The Alcorn State Braves average 62.4 PPG, while allowing 70.1. I expect them to have their hands full today. Dominic Brewton leads the nightly charge for the Braves with 13.1 points and 5.6 boards per game. The Antelopes are averaging 72.9 PPG, while conceding just 55.1. They have a deep and experienced team led by Jovan Blacksher Jr, who averages 11.3 points and 2.5 boards per game. These teams have a similar opponent this year. Alcorn State upset Wichita State, but Grand Canyon lost to it. But let's not overreact to early season results. This is a mismatch and I like the Antelopes to deliver at home; lay the points!

AAA Sports

10* Knicks (ASSASSIN)

The Knicks are 9-11, while the Pistons are 5-17. Off two straight home losses, and having dropped four of its last five, I like New York to finally bounce back here in this favorable spot. These teams played in New York on November 11th and the Knicks won by a score of 121-112. I expect a similar final outcome here. Detroit has covered in five straight ATS, and I expect that string to end here as well. Look for the Knicks to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish and lay the points with confidence!

AAA Sports

10* Dartmouth (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

The Dartmouth Big Green are 1-4 and the UTSA Roadrunners are 4-2. Dartmouth is off a tight 69-64 loss to Incarnate Word. Dusan Neskovic leads the nightly charge with 13.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game for the Big Green. Dartmouth has no issues scoring, entering averaging 77.4 PPG. UTSA averages 65.5. The Roadrunners are coming off a humbling 75-55 loss to Grambling State. Japhet Medor leads the team with 12.7 points and four assists per game. Dartmouth though is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six after an ATS loss, while UTSA is just 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. teams with a win percentage below .400. Dartmouth's defense catches a break this week. I say the outright is possible, but grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* Wizards (NON-DIV GOM)

I think this is a great spot for the Wizards. Washington plays with revenge after losing to Boston 112-94 on October 30th. With a game at home against the Wolves tomorrow, the Wizards can't look past the mighty Celtics tonight. Boston is off a 122-104 win over Sacramento, but it could come in complacent here with a game at home tomorrow against Charlotte. The Wizards have lost five straight against-the-spread, but note that Washington is 7-3 ATS in its last ten after five or more ATS losses in a row. No outright, but much closer than expected; grab the points, the play is the Wizards!

AAA Sports

10* TCU (TOURNEY GOW)

This is part of the Emerald Coast Classic in Niceville, Florida. Iowa is 5-0 thi syear after beating Clemson 74-71 last time out. So far the Hawkeyes are averaging 96 PPG, while conceding 65. Kris Murray leads the nightly charge with 23.8 points and eight rebounds per game. TCU is 4-1 after beating Cal 59-48 last time out. The Horned Frogs went on to force 19 turnovers in the victory. So far they're averaging 77 PPG, while allowing 65.5. Mike Miles Jr. leads TCU with 20.5 PPG on average. Iowa let a big lead slip away late against Clemson, and almost stumbled last time out. Look for the Horned Frogs aggressive defensive play to be the difference maker here; that said, grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* Northern Colorado (MAULING)

We have a couple of 1-4 teams going head-to-head here, but I believe this is a contest that favors the visiting side. North Dakota State is coming off its first win of the year, albeit over Crown College. UNC lost to CO Christian in its last outing. Northern Colorado matches up well with North Dakota State. Also, the Bears have hit 69 or or more points in three of their last four games. UNC is the more motivated side and I expect it to pull away for a comfortable win/cover; that said, grab the points!

AAA Sports

8* Idaho (SPECIAL)

Idaho ia only 1-5 SU, including 0-3 ATS on the road. It's also just 1-4 ATS. The Vandals have many issues, but I still think that 2-3 Pacific is overvalued here. The Tigers are 0-2 SU/ATS at home, so the home floor advantage is not a factor whatsoever in this particular matchup. Idaho is off a high-scoring 82-71 loss to Cal Poly Slo. The Vandals can score, averaging 73.7 PPG. Pacific averages 83.6. These defenses are both pretty terrible, so let's call that area a "wash." Look for the hungrier Vandals to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch

AAA Sports

10* Oklahoma City.

Chicago is coming off a 118-113 win over the Bucks on Wednesday. I had the Bulls in that one. However, I expect the visiting side to come out flat here vs. this determined OKC team, that's off a 131-126 OT loss to the Nuggets on Wednesday. Chicago's room for error is very slim most nights, averaging 111.5 PPG, and conceding 111.4 (note that the Bulls will be without Lonzo Ball while Goran Dragic and Kostas Antetokounmpo are listed as day-to-day.) Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped a double-double with 31 points and 11 assists in a losing cause for the Thunder last time out. OKC averages 115.9 PPG, while allowing 118.3. Chicago has tough upcoming games at the Suns and the Warriors to look ahead to here. Neither team has shown a lot of consistency from game-to-game, but I love the way this one sets up for the home side; the play is the Thunder!

AAA Sports

10* Fresno State (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Fresno State is 1-4 SU and 0-4-1 ATS. Vanderbilt is 2-3 SU/ATS. The Bulldogs are averaging 58.4 PPG, while allowing 61.4 Isaih Moore is averaging 12.8 points and 6.8 boards for Fresno State. The Commodores are averaging 70 PPG, while allowing 66.5. Jordan Wright leads the nightly charge for Vanderbilt by averaging 11.3 points and 3.8 assists per game. This is the consolation game in the Wooden Legacy tournament and I think the Bulldogs are primed for a breakout performance here. On the flip-side, I think this has been a big disappointment for Jerry Stackhouse and the Commodores. Both teams are coming off tight losses. I'll caution reading too much into their respective offensive and defensive numbers so early. I think the Bulldogs superior defense though will "win the day" here; that said, grab as many points as you can!

AAA Sports

10* Bulls (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a great situational wager on the Bulls here. They'd lost four straight, but then they dug deep and posted a quality 121-107 home win over Boston as a 5.5-point favorite in their most recent outing. That was crucial, because it set the tone for this now six-game road trip starting here in Milwaukee to face the Bucks for the first time this season. But this is another important game, to set the tone in the first outing on this trip. Milwaukee is great, it's 12-4 and off a 119-111 home win over Portland. I'm not calling for an outright upset, but I think this one means so much more to the Bulls. They're off the solid win and need to set the tone for the rest of this roadtrip right here and now agains the No. 1 team in the East; grab the points, the play is Chicago!

AAA Sports

8* Louisville (SPECIAL)

Louisville is 0-5 SU/ATS, but I believe it can, at the very least, keep tonight's contest close enough to cover with what I feel to be a generous spread. Cincinnati is 3-3 SU and 2-3-1 ATS. The winner will take seventh spot in the Maui Jim Invitational. The Cardinals are coming off a 70-38 loss to Texas Tech. Jae'lyn Withers led the way in a losing cause with seven points and five boards. Cincinnati is coming off an 81-53 blwout loss to Ohio State as a 3-point underdog. The early numbers for both teams have been terrible. I think these teams are definitely evenly matched. In a contest that I see being decided late though, I'm grabbing the points!

AAA Sports

10* Lakers (PACIFIC GAME OF MONTH)

The Lakers have been playing a lot better of late, winners of three straight. This is the first game of the year they've played against the Suns. I think LA is still being undervalued here. The Lakers have two straight in San Antonio after this, but I expect the visiting side to take this game very seriously. A quality victory here, with a chance to sweep in San Antonio would then see the Lakers as one of the hottest teams in the league. But one game at a time. The Suns are 10-6. They're coming off a 116-95 win over the Knicks. If we just look at these team's seasonal averages to this point, then the obvious choice here would be to grab the Suns. But the season is a dynamic/fluid one, and things change. The Lakers are a better team now than at the start of the year and I expect them to come out swinging with their best shot tonight; grab the points the play is LA!

AAA Sports

8* Tennessee Martin (SPECIAL)

The Tennessee Martin Skyhawks are 3-3, and the Arkansas State Red Wolves are 2-2. In a contest that I see being decided by whichever of these evenly matched sides has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to recommend to grab as many points as you can. TN-Martin is coming off a win over Prairie View, while Arkansas State is off a loss to UC Davis. The Skyhawks had 43 second-half points in their last win, I think they can keep that offensive momentum rolling here against a Red Wolves side that just lost 75-60 to UC Davis. The Skyhawks have a legitimate shot at winning this one outright, but as stated off the top, grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* BULLS (GOW)

Here's a perfect spot for Chicago to avenge an earlier loss to the Celtics. Chicago is off a 108-107 home loss to Orlando as an 8.5-point favorite. The Bulls will be risking life and limb to try and snap a four-game slide tonight, especially with a very tough six-game road trip that starts on Wednesday in Milwaukee. Boston is 13-3. It's off a 117-109 road win at New Orleans. But with a night off after this, followed by a very favorable six-game home-stand, this sets up as a classic "trap" game for the visiting side in my opinion; the outright is possible, but in the end let's grab the points with the Bulls!

AAA Sports

10* Rhode Island (NON-CONF GOW)

These teams are closing out the first round of the Cayman Islands Classic on Monday night. Rhode Island is 1-2, and it's coming off its first win of the season in 74-64 victory over Stonehill. K-State is 3-0, most recently handling Kansas City by a score of 69-53. Rhode Island has some talent in players like Abdou Samb, averaging over ten points per game in the early going. The Cougars are only allowing 55.3 PPG, which is the lowest in the country so far, but that's been in part due to the level of competition it's faced. Markquis Nowell averages 3.3 steals per game for the Wildcats. Rhode Island isn't going to win this game, but I expect the Rams to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch!

AAA Sports

10* Lakers (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

I think this is a good spot for LA. The Lakers are just 4-10, which includes going 4-5 at home. They're off back-to-back home victories, taking down the Nets 116-103 and the Pistons 128-121. San Antonio is just 6-11 and it's coming off a 119-97 loss here just last night to the Clipper. Fatigue's an issue for the Spurs at this point of the season. They'll get caught looking ahead here to two nights off before a home game against the Pelicans. The Lakers can take advantage and I believe they will; lay the points, the play is LA!

AAA Sports

10* Nebraska (BLOWOUT BOB)

For a number of different reasons I expect Nebraska to blowout Arkansas-Pine Bluff this afternoon. The Golden Lions are 1-5. They average 65 PPG. They're off a 67-58 loss at Cleveland State. Nebraska is now 2-1 after a 70-50 loss at St. John's as a 9.5-point underdog. The Huskers average 68 PPG. Arkansas-Pine Bluff is just 4-9 ATS in its last 13 following an ATS win. Nebraska on the other hand is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 home games vs. teams with losing road records. Look for the Huskers to bounce back here in this favorable spot, as I expect the Golden Lions offense to struggle here; lay the points, the play is Nebraska!

AAA Sports 

10* Blazers (ASSASSIN)

As primarily a situational handicapper, this is type of "situation" that I am constantly looking out for. Here's a great play against Utah, which moved to 11-6 after last night's tight 134-133 home win over the Suns. Utah opened as a 2.5-point dog, and closed as a 1-point favorite. The Jazz though had lost three straight coming into that one, and they also played with revenge after an earlier setback to Phoenix. But now Utah comes to Portland fatigued on the second game of the back-to-back. Portland is 10-5 after a 109-107 home loss to Brooklyn as a 2.5-point favorite. With a tough four-game Eastern swing starting at Milwaukee on Monday, the Blazers will be looking to take advantage of familiar surroundings tonight. Look for the Blazers to bounce back and to take advantage of this "tired" Jazz side; lay the short points!

AAA Sports

10* FIU (ATS BLOOD-BATH)

Both teams are 2-1. Bryant is averaging 77.5 PPG and allowing 44.5. The Bulldogs competition to this point has to be called into question though. FIU has so far averaged 82 PPG, while allowing 82.3. The Bulldogs just got crushed by FAU on the road though. One of their two wins was against a division 2 opponent. FIU is definitely not as good as FAU, but the Golden Panthers are shooting the ball well right now, and I expect that to be a difference-maker here at home; grab the points, the play is Florida International!

AAA Sports

10* UMBC (LATE INFO PLAY)

These are two bad teams, but this is a matchup that I believe favors UMBC. Lafayette is 0-3 and UMBC is 1-2. The Leopards are off a 63-59 loss to Saint Joseph's. CJ Fulton is the leading scorer with an average of 13.3 PPG. Overall Lafeyette averages 60.3 PPG. The Retreivers are off a 94-64 loss to Princeton. Colton Lawrence leads the nightly charge for UMBC by averaging 14.7 points per game. UMBC is averaging 74.3 PPG. The Retreivers are also 5-1 ATS their last six at home. The Leopards are overvalued here on the road and getting too much respect from bettors after starting the season 3-0 ATS. Look for UMBC to take care of business here; lay the short points!

AAA Sports

10* Warriors (ASSASSIN)

The defending champs have so far struggled with consistency, as they're 6-8 overall. They're coming off a much-needed 132-95 home win over the Spurs as nine-point favorites. I like to go against lop-sided trends and numbers, and so that's the case here for sure in this pick. I like the Warriors in this game for a couple reasons. The first being that if the Warriors have any hopes of repeating as champions this season, they're going to have to actually win a game on the road. This is now just ridiculous, as Golden State is actually 0-7 on the road. I say that string of futility comes to an end today. Suns' fans can empathize though, as Phoenix is 2-4 at home 6-1 at home this season. The Suns are off a tight 113-112 loss at Miami. Clearly they won't be looking past the Warriors today, but Golden State plays with the added incentive of "REVENGE" here today, as it lost 134-105 to the Suns in their most recent matchup on October 25th. The Warriors are 7-2 against the spread in their last nine when trying to avenge a straight-up and against the spread loss of 20 or more points. Phoenix averages 112.5 PPG. The Warriors are averaging 117.4; I'm grabbing the points and GOLDEN STATE in this one!

AAA Sports

10* Notre Dame (BLOOD-BATH)

Southern Indiana is 1-1 and Notre Dame is 2-0. The Screaming Eagles are off an upset 71-53 home win over Southern Illinois as a ten-point underdog. Can anyone say "letdown" spot here? It was a greart victory, but let's not get ahead of ourselves here. The Screaming Eagels are still ranked fourth in the weak Ohio Valley Conference. The Irish are off an 88-81 win over Youngstown State. ND has yet to cover a spread this season, but that's only helped in driving today's line a few points lower that it normally would/should be. I'm taking advantage. this is a total mismatch. Look for the Irish to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish; lay the points, the play is Notre Dame!

AAA Sports

10* UNLV (BOB)

Both teams are 2-0. Dayton beat SMU on Friday by a score of 74-62, while UNLV got the better of Incarnate Word by a score of 88-63. The Flyers didn't have their best outing, but still managed to win last time out: ''The thing that impressed me most was that they stayed poised,'' Dayton coach Anthony Grant said. ''This was a back-and-forth, highly contested game. I think we had at one point a 13-point lead in the second half that they erased. I think our guys understood what they needed to do. They didn't get rattled.” They only shot 30.8 percent from range in the victory. UNLV shot 55.4 percent overall in its latest win. But UNLV head coach Kevin Kruger was more impressed with the defensive effort: "I thought it was a really great effort defensively. Again, forcing 25 turnovers is what gets things going for us. I'm really proud and happy for them. We shot it well, shared the ball, got it in the paint, kicked it out, swung it, drove it - a lot of good plays for each other. We were able to get downhill and get to the free throw line, so that's going to have to be our M.O. offensively, just sharing it, driving and kicking, relocating, but all-in-all I thought it was a pretty good night for us." I think these teams are evenly matched for the most part and in a contest that I see being decided by whichever side has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to grab the points; the play is UNLV!

AAA Sports

10* Mavericks (ASSASSIN)

The Clippers are 8-6 and the Mavericks are 7-5. LA is off a 122-106 win at Houston just last night, but I expect the Clippers to come in fatigued here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. LA only averages 105.2 PPG. Dallas averages 110.5. The Mavericks are coming off a 117-112 home win over Portland. Dallas has failed to cover the spread in nine straight games, but I expect this lop-sided trend to end here in this favorable matchup. Look for LA to pack up its tents and throw in the white flag early in this one; lay the points, the play is Dallas!

AAA Sports

10* Monmounth-NJ (UNDERDOG OF WEEK)

Outright victory? Of course not. I just think the Illini will take the foot off the gas in the second half and allow the Hawks the opportunity to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the sizeable spread that they've been afforded in this one. Illinois is off an 86 to 48 win over Kansas City as a 25.5-point favorite. But with a game at Maryland up next, followed by Texas, I say this is a bit of a look-ahead spot as well for the home side. Monmouth is 0-2. It fell 89-42 at Virginia last time out as a a 24.5-point underdog, but it matches up much better with Illinois. But as I said, no outright here, but the conditions are definitely right for a much tighter battle than what this spread would initially indicate; that flips the value to the undervalued underdog, so grab the points with Monmouth!

AAA Sports

10* Eastern Washington (ASSASSIN)

While I do think an outright win is possible, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can here. Eastern Washington is 0-2 to open the season, so the Eagles will be super motivated here to try and snap the slide. THey lost 74-60 to a better Yale team last time out. Steele Venters led the way with 15 points for Eastern Washington. Hawaii is coming off a 72-54 home win over Mississippi Valley State, unable to cover the large 25.5-point spread. I think the Warriors are overvauled here again today vs. the Eagles as well, despite the much smaller point spread. Eastern Washington is 37-15-1 ATS in its last 53 road games and 23-3 ATS in its last 26 road games against a team with a winning home record. In a contest that I seeing coming down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points; the play is Eastern Washington!

AAA Sports

10* Mavericks (ASSASSIN)

The Blazers are 9-3, while the Mavericks are 6-5. The Blazers are off a 106-95 outright road win at New Orleans as nine-point underdogs, but I think they'll finally stumble here on Saturday in this difficult road venue. After this the Blazers have two nights off, followed by two home games vs. the Spurs and Nets, so this sets up as a natural "look ahead" position for the visiting side. Dallas is off a disappointing 113-105 road loss in the nation's capital as a 6-point favorite, but note that it's 7-2 ATS in its last nine off a SU/ATS road loss in which it was favored. This is a stretch of five straight home games for the Mavericks, and I expect an "all hands on deck" performance here to open it up; lay the points, the play is indeed on Dallas!

AAA Sports

10* Illinois State (BLOOD-BATH)

The Redbirds are 1-1, including 1-0 on the road. They're 0-2 ATS, but I expect them to not only win today, but to do so by a sizeable margin. Overall Illinois State is averaging 61 PPG, while allowing 60. Luke Kasuble is the man to keep your eyes on tonight, he's so far averaging 16 points. Nortwestern State is 1-1, and 1-0 at home. The Demons are averaging 64 points and allowing 63. Isaac Haney leads the way with 17.5 opints and seven boards. The Redbirds are better defensively in the early going, and I think they matchup well here. Look for Illinois State to pull away for the comfortable win and cover!

AAA Sports

10* Wolves (ASSASSIN)

I think an outright victory is possible, but the official call will be to grab as many points as you can. Minnesota is now just 5-7 after its 129-117 home loss to Phoenix. This is the opener of a difficult four-game road trip for the Wolves, so it's all hands on deck for Minnesota tonight. The Grizzlies are 8-4 after their 124-122 OT win at San Antonio on Wednesday. The Grizz hit the road for a two-game road trip starting on Sunday. I think the road is a good place for the underachieving Wolves right now after they just went 1-3 at home. Look for Minnesota to fight and scrap and claw its way to, at the very least, a comfortable ATS cover; grab the play, the play is the Wolves!

AAA Sports

10* Saint Joseph's (BEST OF BEST)

The Houston Cougars are 1-0 oafter an 83-36 win over Northern Colorado. While that was a "cake walk," I expect the Hawks to put up more of a fight here. This is Saint Joseph's first game of the season, and while I'll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do definitely feel that this is too many points to be giving up. Houston utterly blew out UNC, with Marcus Sasser leading the way with 21 points. Last year Houston finished with a 26-5 regular season record and it averaged 75.8 PPG. The Hawks finished 11-19 overall last year. They averaged 67.6 PPG. Ejike Obinna is 6 foot 10 and he averaged 12.1 points and 7.9 boards per game last season. He'll play a bigger role this year. The Cougars are going to move to 2-0 after this game, but this is WAY too many points to be giving up to what I predict will be a slightly improved Saint Joseph's team this season; grab the points! 

AAA Sports

10* Pelicans (EXPRESS)

Portland is off a satisfying 105-95 win at Charlotte just last night, so I'm predicting a letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. New Orleans is off a game last night as well, winning 115-111 at Chicago. This Pelicans team averages 118.2 PPG, while the Blazers average just 109.4. Note as well the the Blazers are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight off a SU/ATS road victory and then playing the second game of a B2B scenario. Look for New Orleans to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable win and cover; lay the points!

AAA Sports

10* Columbia (NON-CONF GOM)

UMass is 1-0 after its 108-43 destruction of Fisher College. Obviously, we have to take the victory with a "grain of salt." Columbia is 0-1 after a 75-35 loss to Rutgers as a 19-point underdog. It's difficult to get a firm read on either team at this point, but I'd say the best plan of action is not to "overreact" to either team's results after the first game. These team's offensive and defensive schemes are similar and in a contest that I see being decided in the final moments, I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can; the play is Columbia!

AAA Sports

8* FAMU (SPECIAL)

Florida A&M is 0-1, while Portland is 1-0. The Rattlers are off an 80-45 loss to Oregon in their season-opener, but the Pilots are definitely not on the same level as the Ducks. Jordan Chatman and Jordan Tillman combined for 16 points in that one. Portland is off an 89-62 blowout win over Louis and Clark. Vasilije Vucinic and Mike Meadows each had a team-high 18 points. But FAMU is a much better team than Louis & Clark. FAMU is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine on the road and a whopping 10-2 ATS in its last 12 following a SU loss of 20 or more points. I like the Pilots this season, but I expect them to take the proverbial foot off the gas pedal down the stretch; no outright, but closer than expected, so grab the points!

AAA Sports

10* LAKERS (ATS BLOWOUT)

I really like the way this one sets up for the much hungrier underdog here. Both teams have more questions than answers, but the Lakers have a lot of ground to make up. They're just 2-8. After two straight wins, they're off three straight losses, including twice to Utah and once to Cleveland. The "revenge factor" does come into play here though, as the Lakers lost here at "HOME" to the Clippers in the second game of the season by a score of 103-97. The Clippers have actually won three of their last four. They look a bit better of late, but they're still only averaging 103.8 points per game, which ranks 30th. I'm expecting another really tight game between these two teams. In fact, I think this is a game that the Lakers can win outright. The Clippers aren't scaring anyone these days. That said, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is LA!

AAA Sports

10* Purdue (ASSASSIN)

In the story of David vs. Goliath, David somehow manages to kill the giant. In today's story though, Purdue (the Giant), will take no mercy in my estimation on lowly David (Milwaukee.) This is a talent discrepancy of epic proportions, and because of that I'll suggest a play on Purdue to cover the large spread. 7-foot-4 center Zach Edey will be a difficult matchup issue for the Panthers. Edey averaged 14.4 points and 7.7 boards in just 19 minutes last year. He'll be the focal point this season though. Milwaukee has a new coach in Bart Lundy and 13 new players. The Panthers are picked to finish No. 9 in the Horizon League. Milwaukee is off a satisfying win over the Milwaukee School of Engineering just last night, so expect a complete letdown here today vs. "Goliath." Lay the points, the play is Purdue!

AAA Sports 

10* Lakers (ASSASSIN)

I think the overachieving Jazz have a classic letdown here. The Lakers come in desperate at 2-7, while the Jazz come in complacent at 8-3. Winning can lead to complacency, and losing leads to desperation. LA is off a 114-100 loss at home to the red hot Cavaliers just last night. Fatigue at this point of the season isn't really a concern. The Lakers do play with the immediate revenge factor though after Utah beat them 130-116 in LA last week. Utah is off a 110-102 win at the Clippers last night, and I believe this younger team will finally have a small letdown here. Especially considering that they hit the road for a tough three-game Eastern swing starting in Atlanta on Wednesday. It's a letdown/look-ahead spot which invariably = "trap game!" The outright win is possible, but the official call will be to grab as many points as you can with the Lakers!

AAA Sports

10* PFW (NON-CONF GOW)

I just think this is too many points for Juwan Howard's new team to cover. Yes, leading scorer and rebounder Hunter Dickinson is back again this season, but four of the other five starters are gone. The Wolverines are still ranked No. 22, but I expect some chemistry issues in the early going. I'm not calling for an outright upset, but the Mastadons return an experienced line-up which I think will do some damage here on the National stage. The Mastadons tied for the Horizon League regular season championship last year. They're the co-favorites this year with UNK. Jarred Godfrey was their top player last year, and he returns along with three other starters. No outright, but closer than expected; grab the points, the play is PFW!

AAA Sports

10* Hornets (BLOOD-BATH)

Both teams comes in off of having played just last night. The Nets destoryed the Wizards by a score of 128-86, while the Hornets got crushed 130-99 at Memphis. It was a great bounce back win for Brooklyn, which really needed something positive at all to lean on with all of the off-court issues, but I'm still not convinced that KD and company have suddenly turned the corner here for good. This one smells of immediate return to the norm for this on again, off again Nets team, that will have to adjust without Kyrie Irving in the line-up. I like Gordon Hayward at home. The Nets are a terrible 3-9-1 ATS in their last 13 when playing the second game of a B2B. Both teams are dealing with injuries, and the Hornets will get a lot better when Lonzo Ball and Terry Rozier return. Until then though, I'm expecting this one to come down to the wire; grab the points, the play is Charlotte!

AAA Sports

9* Celtics (BLOCKBUSTER)

I think the Celtics not only win this game, but do so by a sizeable margin. The Bulls are 5-4 and the Celtics are 4-3. Chicago is 2-2 on the road and Boston is 2-1 at home. The Bulls are off a 106-88 home win over Charlotte, but with a tough upcoming road game North of the border on Sunday, I expect the visitors to get caught looking ahead. Boston is coming off a 114-113 OT road loss in Cleveland. With a game at New York tomorrow night, I expect the Celtics to take care of business here on their home floor. Chicago is still dealing with several key injury issues. The role players got the better of an injured Hornets team, but I expect Boston to take advantage here; all signs point to a blowout, so lay the points with the Celtics!

AAA Sports

10* Pistons (ASSASSIN)

I like the way this one sets up for the Pistons. Cleveland is off a 114-113 upset OT home win over the Celtics, and it now hits the road for five straight. After this game in Detroit though it hits the West coast for games against the Lakers, Clippers, Kings and Warriors. Can anyone say "look-ahead" spot for this young and overachieving Cavs team? Listen, Donovan Mitchell is a great player, but the Pistons won't be going down without a fight here. Detroit is off back-to-back losses in Milwaukee. They lost 116-91 on Wednesday, but previous to that fell 110-108 as a 13.5-point underdog. I think the Pistons catch Cleveland here at the right tie, as I expect the Cavs to be already planning for their road-trip. While the outright is possible, the official call is to grab as many points as you can with the Pistons!

AAA Sports

10* Wizards (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a fantastic spot for Washington. Outright win? Possible, but this one will be close in my opinion. These teams just played in Washington on Halloween and the 76ers won 118-111. Washington plays with revenge, and it's lost three straight ATS, which is significant to note here as the Wiz are actually 7-3 ATS in their last ten after three or more straight ATS losses in a row. Washington plays tough defensively, as opponent are shooting 43.5 percent against them, which is fourth best in the NBA. They're not going to make it easy on the home side. I expect a small mental letdown here. Joel Embiid was out in the last game, and he'll be out again here. Look for Washington to, at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch; grab the points, the play is Washington!

AAA Sports

10* Knicks (ASSASSIN)

The Knicks are coming off a tough, but competitive loss to the Bucks on Friday, falling 119-108. I think they'll come in "under the radar" here on Sunday and catch the overacheiving Cavaliers off guard. Cleveland is coming off an epic 132-123 OT win over Boston, and I say it has a predictable letdown here after that emotional win. Donovan Mitchell has gotten out to a strong start for the Cavs, and while Cleveland does have plenty of talent, it's still thin when compared to the top teams in the East. Previous to the loss to Milwaukee, the Knicks beat Charlotte 134-131 in OT. I expect this one to be decided by whichever team has it hands on the ball last, so that means that I'm going to grab up all these points; the play is the Knicks!

AAA Sports

8* Lakers (SPECIAL)

Both teams have gotten out to crummy starts, but I think this one'll be decided in the closing moments. The Lakers are 0-3 SU/ATS, and the Nuggets are 2-2 SU and 1-3 ATS. The Lakers offense has struggled, but they'll look to take advantage of a Nuggets team that just gave up 135 points to the Blazers. LA's defense has been decent despite the defeats (the three losses have come against three pretty good teams as well, who have a combined 8-2 record right now.) LeBron James and Anthony Davis look good for the Lakers. If Russell Westbrook has even a mediocre showing here, the Lakers have a legit shot at winning this one outright. Nikola Jokic is always an X-Factor, but this Denver defense looks terrible right now; grab the points, the play is LA!

AAA Sports

10* HEAT (NON-CONF GOM)

Would anyone have guessed that the Heat would be 1-3 right now after four games, and the Blazers would be 4-0? Portland is also 4-0 ATS, while Miami is 0-4 ATS. The law of averages is flawed in many ways, but I've always felt that lop-sided numbers/trends have a way of naturally correcting themselves over the short, mid and the long-term. Miami is off the 98-90 home loss to rival Toronto. It simply CAN NOT afford to look past the Blazers today, because up next is a date at the defending champs tomorrow night. THat's the followed by a tricky road game against an improved Sacramento team (and that's followed by a home game against the Warriors again!) It's all hands on deck for Miami tonight. Would anyone fault Portland for having a minor letdown here after four straight victories to open the season as an underdog? All good things must come to an end. Note, ALL FOUR of Portland's victories have come against the top teams in the West as well, beating Sacramento, Phoenix (in T), the Lakers and most recently hammering the Nuggets 135-110. Now facing their first non-conference opponent of the season, this one screams "letdown" spot to me; the play is Miami!

AAA Sports

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the 76ers.

The Pacers are 1-2 and the 76ers are 0-2. Neither team has gotten out to a great start, but I look for the 76ers to put the foot on the gas from start to finish in this favorable matchup. The Pacers are off a 124-115 home win over Detroit on Saturday, but I believe they'll stumble here in the opener of this difficult five game road trip. Mostly more than anything, I absolutely expect the 76ers to come out fired up here after two lacklustre games to open the season. The good news is that James Harden looks locked in early for Philly. This is a matchup that favors Joel Embiid and the home side and I expect them to take advantage; lay the points, because I look for the 76ers to win in blowout fashion!

AAA Sports

10* Suns (BLOOD-BATH)

The Suns are 1-1 and the Clippers are 2-0. Phoenix most recently fell 113-111 at Portland in OT as a five-point favorite on Friday night. The Clippers came away with the tight 111-109 road win over the Kings just last night, and I believe they'll be fatigued here in the second game of the back-to-back. Phoenix actually had to erase a 17-point halftime deficit in the loss to the Blazers, but just couldn't get the job done in the end. But with a couple games under their belts, and here facing the undefeated Clippers, I expect Phoenix to be at its best this evening. LA though could very likely rest some of its key players here in the B2B scenario. While I clearly think the outright win is a possibility, the official call will be to grab as many points as you can; the play is Phoenix!

AAA Sports

10* Kings (ASSASSIN)

I think this is a great "situational" play on the Kings. Sacramento lost its opener 115-108 as a 3-point favorite at home to Portland, but I think it bounces back here. The Clippers are off a satisfying 103-97 win over the Lakers in their opener, but with a home game against the Suns tomorrow night, I believe they'll classically get caught "looking ahead" to that one. LA has a great roster, but stars Paul George and Kawhi Leonard will be used sparingly at the start of the season, after each comes back from a signficant injury. D'Aaron Fox and Damontas Sabonis are the correct call here at home. Mike Brown didn't play his starters a lot in the season opening loss, but we can expect a heavy dose today; while the outright win is clearly not out of the question, let's grab the points, the play is Sacramento!

AAA Sports

10* NUGGETS (BOB)

I like Denver to bounce back after its poor 123-102 road loss at Utah as a 6.5 point favorite. Look for the Nuggets to make the necessary adjustments to be much more competitive vs. the defending champs. I think the Nuggets got caught "looking ahead" to this Friday game. Golden State won and covered over the Lakers in their opener. When Denver gave up fewer than 111.0 points last season, it went 25-17 against the spread and 31-11 overall. Last season, Golden State had the league’s 15th-ranked scoring team (111.0 PPG), while Denver had the 14th-ranked defense in terms of points per game (110.4). Look for a very tight and competitive game, one that's decided in the final moments; grab the points, the play is Denver!

AAA Sports

8* Wolves (DESTRUCTION)

I like to watch the first two weeks of action before really unloading in the NBA. In fact, that's the case for the NBA, College hoops and the NHL as well. To begin with at the start of the season, I like to be contrarian. If the majority of the public goes one way, I'll more than likely go the other. I also look for what I deem to be really great "situational" plays. And in my opinion, this is a great early season situational play. The Jazz are off the upset 123-102 home win over Denver as a 6.5-point underdog, but I expect a predictable letdown here on the road. Minnesota beat OKC by a score of 115-108 in its Opener, but it did not cover the big 11-point spread. Tonight's spread is much more manageable and I believe the deeper home side will indeed keep the foot on the gas from start to finish in this one; lay the points, the play is Minnesota!

AAA Sports

10* 76ers (NON-DIV GOM)

I like the way this one sets up at home for the 76ers. I believe they'll pull away for a double-digit victory right at the end. The Bucks were decent last year. They averaged 113.9 PPG< and allowed 110.7. The 76ers lost on the road to Boston, but an immediate return to the winner's circle will be in order here. The Bucks will be without Khris Middleton and Pat Connaughton to open the season. Milwaukee was bad defensively on the road last year, allowing more than 111 PPG. Look for Philly to pull away down the stretch!

AAA Sports