The set-up: The Blues come in off an 8-4 loss to Winnipeg, while the Wings enter off a 7-5 home win over Columbus. These teams have been putting the “biscuit in the basket” at a prodigious rate of late and I believe that trend carries over here. St. Louis is averaging 3.05 GPG and allowing 3.32. Detroit is averaging 2.75 GPG and it’s allowing 2.75 as well. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but St. Louis has seen the total go “over” the number in all three games already this year when playing with three or more days rest, while Detroit has seen the total go “over” in four of five already this year after three or more consecutive losses. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: The Lakers are a team led by the best basketball talent on Earth, but which is still trying to find its identity on most nights. That’s understandable, as chemistry takes time to develop. Regardless, LA will be out to atone for a 108-104 home loss to Orlando on Sunday. The Nuggets on the other hand return home off a successful road trip and a 105-98 win at OKC on Saturday. Can anyone say “letdown spot?!” LA averages 114.2 PPG and it allows 112.7. Denver averages 109.9 points and it allows 103.2. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but LA is already 4-1 ATS this year vs. teams with winning records, while Denver is just 4-5 ATS this season vs. teams with winning records and a poor 7-13 ATS in its last 20 after three or more SU wins. Grab the points, expect a “nail biter!” 

The set-up: The Southern Illinois Salukis got the better of Tusla in their most recent action, part of the Las Vegas Invitational. Colorado State enters off a loss to SDSU in its most recent action. Southern Illinois was destroyed by UMass in its previous outing, but the Salukis bounced back with a win over the Golden Hurricane. Colorado State ha a much better defense though and after its recent setback, I think it bounces back here. Anthony-Masinton Bonner was a bright spot in the Rams most recent setback with 20 points, four boards and two assists. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Salukis are 0-5-1 ATS in their last six following an ATS win and just 2-8 ATS in their last ten road games as a non-conference fav in the -1 to -7 points range. Play on Colorado State.

The set-up: Colorado may have won four straight, but Nashville comes in having won six straight at home. The Avs could be getting “lucky” of late as well, as note that the power play is just 1 for 9 in its last two games, having gone 9 of 13 in chances over the previous five. Note that Avs’ net minder Varlamov is a pedestrian 11-12-2 with a 3.28 GAA lifetime against the Predators. The home side counters with Pekka Rinne, who has a 2.10 GAA and .925 save percentage on the year. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Nashville is 6-2 in its last eight after scoring five or more goals in its previous outing, while the Avs are just 9-25 in their last 34 road games vs. teams with an above .600 winning percentage. Lay the price.

The set-up: These teams aren’t known for their defensive prowess, but I believe the conditions are right for more of a lower-scoring defensive battle this evening. The Sens enter off a 4-2 road loss to the Rangers, while the Flyers come in off a humbling 6-0 loss at Toronto. Clearly neither side can be happy with its performance of late. Note that Ottawa plays with the added incentive of “revenge” as well after the Flyers took the first meeting of the year on the road earlier. As mentioned off the top, I understand that these teams are both horrible on the defensive end, but from an overall situational stand point, I believe each doubles down on that side of the ice after their recent blowout losses.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Ottawa has seen the total go “under” the number in five to its last seven road games after giving up four or more goals in a road loss in its previous outing, while Philly has seen the total go “under” in seven of its last nine home games after giving up five or more goals and getting shutout in its previous outing. This number is high, play the “under.” 

The set-up: VT hasn’t started a season 6-0 for the last six years, but it can accomplish that feat tonight in its first true road game of the campaign. VT enters off a dominating 75-37 rout of St. Francis of Pennsylvania on Saturday and I look for it to carry that momentum over here. Four players have at least nine three-balls so far this year for the Hokies ash they’re shooting a solid 41.4 percent from range overall. VT is only 5-7 all time in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge, but it’s won its last two. PSU comes in off a crushing 59-56 upset loss to Bradley in the title game of the Cancun Classic and I think its ripe for the picking here. Overall the Nittany Lions shot just 4 of 27 from range in the setback. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Penn State is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 as an underdog in the 0.5 and 6.5 points range, while VT is 5-0 ATS in its last five as a road favorite. Lay the short points.

The set-up: North Dakota State is 2-4 and Gonzaga is 6-0. Most recently the Bison fell 79-61 to East Tennessee State this weekend. Overall NDSU is averaging 71.8 PG and allowing 72.5. The Bulldogs are a whopping 97 PPG and allowing 76. 

The pick: The Bulldogs are allowing teams to score points, only because they’re dominating on the offensive end this season. I look for that trend to continue here. Take it for what you will as well, but Gonzaga has seen the total go “over” the number in 14 of its last 20 as a home favorite of 12.5 points or more. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: After an 0-3 start, Houston comes out of its bye week having won six straight. I think the time off will ultimately throw a “monkey wrench” into the chemistry and I look for the hungry Titans to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Houston holds a two game lead over both Tennessee and Indianapolis, so this is a crucial game for the visitors. Tennessee destroyed the Patriots, but it couldn’t keep that momentum going in a 28-10 loss to the Colts last weekend. But with their season essentially on the line, I think the Titans bounce back this week.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Tennessee is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 vs. teams with winning records, while Houston is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine after two or more consecutive victories. Grab the points.

10* play

The set-up: Houston will be eager to return to form here after a 117-108 road loss in Cleveland on Saturday. Washington on the other hand looks poised for a letdown in my opinion after a 124-114 win over New Orleans on Saturday. But the Rockets have in fact lost two in a row on the road. Overall the Rockets are averaging 106.9 PPG and they’re allowing 107.9. The Wizards are averaging 112.2 PPG and allowing 117.2.  

The pick: Previous to their upset win over the Hornets, the struggling Wizards had lost three straight. Note that they’re just 3-10 ATS in their last 13 following a SU victory. Lay the points.

The set-up: The Senators have been terrible defensively of late and I think that trend of futility gets carried over here. The Sens enter off a 7-4 loss at Dallas on Friday. The Rangers had won three in a row before a 5-3 loss to the Capitals at home on Saturday. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but the Rangers are 7-1 in their last eight at home and the home team is 10-1 in the last 11 in this series. Look for these very strong trends to continue and lay this very reasonable price. Play on New York.

The set-up: Both teams come in at 5-1. I think the Huskers have a letdown here though after their big 73-49 win over Western Illinois, while I look for Clemson to come in focused as the more “hungry” side here after a tough 87-82 loss to Creighton. So far the Huskers are averaging 80.5 PPG and allowing 51.7. Clemson is averaging 77.2 PPG and it’s allowing 65.8. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Nebraska is just 2-3 ATS in its last five as a road dog in the 3.5 to six points range, while Clemson is 17-11 ATS in its last 28 non-conference contests. Lay the points.

The set-up: For all intents and purposes, this is a “must win” game for both teams. The Packers are just 4-5 and they’ve lost three of their last four after a terrible loss to Seattle last weekend. The only hope Green Bay has is with QB Aaron Rodgers, so expect the visitors air it out early and often. The Vikes come in off a brutal loss to the Bears last weekend and they’ll also be hungry to reverse their recent offensive struggles with a break out performance. From a situational stand point, this one definitely sets up as a “shootout” in my opinion. 

The pick: Note as well that Green Bay has seen the total go “over” the number in six of its last eight “dome” games, while Minnesota has seen the total go “over” in four of its last five as a home fav of three points or less. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: The Devils are out to atone for a 4-3 OT loss to the Islanders. Tampa enters off a 5-2 home win over Chicago. The Devils are 7-4 at home, but just 2-8 on the road. NJ is averaging 3.00 GPG and it’s allowing 3.19. The Lightning are averaging 3.74 GPG and they’re allowing only 2.87. I expect the visitors to try and control the pace of this one from the start and because of that, I do definitely feel this one sets up as more of lower-scoring defensive battle. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but NJ has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine road games after allowing four or more goals in an OT loss in its previous outing, while Tampa has seen the total go “under” in five of its last seven after a win by three or more goals in its previous outing. This number is a little high, play the “under.” 

The set-up: The Beavers are rolling. They return from a successful showing in the Virgin Islands State side with a 4-1 record. LBSU on the other hand has done poorly to this point with a 1-3 record. The Beavers feature plenty of talent and veteran experience, led by Tres Tinkle, who had a double-double in all four games in the Virgin Islands tournament. Most recently he had 32 points in the win over Penn. The 49ers lost 87-72 to Utah Valley most recently, with Deishuan Booker a lone bright spot with 17.8 points. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Oregon State is 4-1 ATS in its last five against teams with winning percentages under .400. I don’t see Oregon State looking past this opportunity. Lay the points.

The set-up: It’s a really big game for each side and because of that, I’m expecting more of a “defensive battle,” where field position is paramount in the end. Seattle is in a tough division with the Rams, but it’s keeping pace after last week’s win over the Packers. The Panthers though have lost two in a row and they’ll be risking life and limb to come up with a win today. The overall situation definitely points to a “chess match.” 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Hawks have seen the total go “under” the number in four of their last five road games when the total in the contest is set between 45.5 and 49 points, while Carolina has seen the total go “under” in three of its last four after two or more SU losses. This number is high, play the “under.” 

The set-up: Orlando is out to atone for a 112-87 loss in Denver on Friday. A date against the improving Lakers is not what the doctor ordered to get back on track though, as LA enters off an impressive performance, beating Utah 90-83 on Friday night. Note as well that the Lakers play with revenge here after falling in Orlando 130-117 on November. 17th. From a situational stand point, I definitely think this sets up as more of a higher-scoring shootout. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Orlando has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last ten non-conference road games in which it was held to 88 points or less in its previous outing, while LA has seen the total go “over” the number in 11 of its last 17 after holding its previous opponent to under 85 points. This number is low, play the “over.”

The set-up: Simply feel that the Bengals are the “hungrier” team here after back-to-back losses. The Browns however enter off a highly satisfying 28-16 home win over the Eagles. A predictable letdown is imminent for the visitors in my opinion. The Browns’ bye week won’t help them here, in fact I believe it’ll be a negative. Overall the Browns are averaging 21.8 PPG and allowing 26.3. The Bengals are averaging 25.6 points and allowing 31.2. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Cleveland is still a brutal 4-10 ATS against the division and a terrible 6-13 ATS in its last 19 on the road, while Cincinnati is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 vs. teams with losing records. Lay the points, expect a rout.

Analysis posted shortly!

The set-up: Arsenal is 16th after only posting three points from the opening three games. Bournemouth is in the bottom three of the Premier League 2017-18 table and the team is yet to even take a point this season.

The play: Arsenal’s only win came on opening day against Leicester. It comes in off back to back league defeats, most recently a 4-0 loss to Liverpool. Bournemouth only picked up three wins on the road last year and its lost both visits to Emirates Stadium. Arsenal has scored five goals in the last two games in this series. This one has blowout written all over it.

The set-up: The Kings will be eager to take advantage of a tired Canucks team which played on Friday night. The Kings are also out to atone for a 7-3 loss at home to Colorado on Wednesday. Vancouver has lost two in a row and it’ll be eager to get back on track as well obviously. Both sides have struggled with offensive consistency this season, but the conditions now finally set up perfectly for a wide open contest in my opinion. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Vancouver has seen the total go “over” the number in four of its last six vs. division opponents, while LA has seen the total go “over” in four of six already this season when playing with two days of rest. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: This is an important game for both teams. The winner plays in the Big West title game. Utah State has won ten in a row and it plays with revenge after falling in this contest last year. The Aggies have a difficult task ahead of them and they were almost caught “looking ahead” to this one with a “close call” against Colorado State last weekend. Utah State has its eyes on a big bowl game, but it’ll have to take it one game at a time: “Survive and advance. Just like in the NCAA Tournament,” Utah State head coach Matt Wells said after the game, according to the Associated Press, via ESPN.com. “You know, I’m going to celebrate after a win like this. I’m going to let the players celebrate all the way until Monday. We have a special season going.”

Boise State looked decent offensively against a weak New Mexico defense last week, but the Broncos looked great defensively, holding the Lobos to only 14 points.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Utah State has seen the total go “under” the number in four of its last six vs. teams with winning records, while Boise State has seen the total go “under” in four of five already this year after two or more consecutive SU victories. This number is high, play the “under.”

The set-up: Both teams played yesterday. The Cavs enter off a confidence building 121-112 win over Philadelphia, while Houston lost 116-111 in Detroit. This the end of a tough Eastern swing for Houston and I think it’s primed for another letdown here as well. Houston is only averaging 106.6 PPG, while the defense is allowing 105.7. The Cavs are averaging 103.4 PPG and they’re allowing 111.9. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Cleveland is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in the second game of a back to back after winning the first by seven or more points. No outright, but expect a competitive battle. Grab the points.

10* play

The set-up: Arizona State lost 31-29 in Oregon last weekend and with that setback, it’s now out of contention for the Pac 12 championship. Can anyone say “letdown” spot? Arizona on the other hand desperately needs a victory to become eligible. After last week’s humbling 69-28 loss to WSU, I look for the home side to make the most of this one. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Arizona is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games after allowing 67 or more points in its previous outing in a loss, while ASU is only 1-3-1 ATS in its last five following a SU victory. Grab the points.

The set-up: UCLA looks primed for a letdown here after it beat rival USC last weekend. Stanford smashed Oregon State last Saturday to become eligible, but I look for the Cardinal to keep the foot on the gas to end the the regular season. Stanford QB KJ Costello has thrown for over 300 yards in four of his last five games. Last week he had 342 passing yards and four TD’s. Defensively the Cardinal looked good as well, holding the Beavers to just 17 points. UCLA got a huge game from RB Joshua Kelley last week with 289 rushing yards and two TD’s, but QB Wilton Speight looked pretty ordinary, finishing with 166 passing yards and 1:1 TD:INT.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but UCLA is 2-6 ATS in its last eight at home while Stanford is 19-6-1 ATS in its last 26 vs. teams with losing records. I don’t think Kelley will rush for nearly 300 yards again this week and because of that, I look for the Bruins to suffer another letdown. Lay the points.

The set-up: Princeton has plenty of new faces from last year’s team, but I still think it’ll have more than enough to take care of Monmouth. Clearly these teams are very evenly matched, a sentiment shared by Las Vegas. 

The pick: The “edges” for this play though come in the numbers, as note that the Tigers are 4-1 ATS in their last six as a road favorite of three points or less and 4-1 ATS in its last five vs. poor defensive teams which allow 77 plus points per contest, while Monmouth is a poor 7-12 ATS in its last 19 non-conference contests and 9-14 ATS in its last 23 as an underdog. Lay the points.

10* play

The set-up: The SEC and the ACC collide on Saturday afternoon. The Gators enter off a satisfying 63-10 win over Idaho, while Florida State enters off a confidence building 22-21 home win over Boston College. FSU won this game 38-22 last year. Florida averages 33.9 PPG and it allows 21. Florida’s bowl berth will not be affected with a win or loss today. FSU though is 5-6 and it’ll be desperate for a win today. The Eagles are allowing 30.6 PPG this year, while averaging only 22.6. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Florida is just 2-3 ATS this year as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range, while FSU is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 non-conference games. Grab the points.

The set-up: This is a big game for both teams, as the winner will go on to lay in the Big Ten Title game next weekend. The Wolverines enter off a 31-20 home win over Indiana, while Ohio State surveyed a 52-51 OT win in Maryland. Michigan has lost six straight in this series, but the Wolverines’ dominating defense this year is going to be the difference in my opinion. Michigan allows only 13.5 PPG, while averaging 26.6. Ohio State is averaging 41.6 PPG and allowing 24.6. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Ohio State is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven after scoring more than 40 in its previous game, while Michigan is 18-7-1 ATS in its last 26 following an ATS loss. I look for the Wolverines to finally get the monkey off their back. Lay the points.

The set-up: The winner of this game will play in the Pac 12 Championship. In a contest which I see coming down to whichever of these hungry teams has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points. Washington always has a chance with QB Jake Browning under center. He’s played WSU three times over his career already and outscored it 131-41 combined. WSU has the highest-scoring offenses in the league, but the Huskies can match pace. Plus Washington’s defense is stout and it’ll be able to slow down the “Air Raid” at the end of the day.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Washington is 6-4 ATS in its last ten Pac 12 road games, while WSU is only 2-4 ATS in its last six a conference home fav in the +2.5 to +6.5 points range. Grab the points.

The set-up: This is an important game for both teams and that fact alone is the reason why I predict a high-scoring shootout. The Sooners will be playing in the Big 12 Championship Game next week no matter what, but clearly Oklahoma would like to win out with the hopes of somehow making it into the Playoff Championship. WVU needs to win this game and have Texas lose for its opportunity to play in the Conference championship and while the deck is stacked against them, clearly the Mountaineers are going to leave everything they have on the field on Seniors night. From a situational stand point, this one definitely sets up as a high-scoring game in my opinion. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Oklahoma has seen the total go “over” the number in eight of its last ten as a road favorite, while WVU has seen the total go “over” in five of its last eight as an underdog. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: As a professional handicapper, I base my picks on many things. This particular one is based upon the “revenge” factor. Sometimes “revenge” can be overused by handicappers as a legitimate angle, but after losing 7-2 to the Flames in Calgary last week, I think the Knights come in focused on the task at hand here. LV did go into the Thanksgiving break off a 3-2 win over Arizona. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Knights are a perfect 3-0 in their last three in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent in which it gave up five or more goals in. The achilles heel of the Flames has been their play on the road and I look for that trend to carry over here. Lay the reasonable price.

The set-up: Texas needs a win here to punch its ticket to the Big 12 Championship game and whether QB Sam Ehlinger plays or not, I think the Longhorns find a way to get the job done here. Texas is averaging 32.4 PPG and it’s allowing 25.9. The Jayhawks are averaging 24.5 PPG and allowing 30.5. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Longhorns are 3-1-1 ATS in their last five road conference games a favorite in the -14 to -17 points range, while Kansas is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 vs. teams with winning records. Lay the points.

The set-up: This is a great “situational” play. Atlanta can’t sit back and hope for the Saints to make the first mistake today. The Falcons’ season has been de-railed by injury, but veteran QB Matt Ryan will be given the green light to air the ball out early and often. The Saints only need two more victories to earn a first round bye. Clearly Drew Brees is going to have the foot on the gas here from start to finish this weekend.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Atlanta has seen the total go “over” the number in four of its last five after two or more SU losses, while New Orleans has seen the total go “over” in 14 of its last 22 at home. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: Ole Miss still needs one more win to become eligible. Clearly this game means “more” to the Rebels than to the 7-4 Bulldogs. Mississippi State looks primed for a letdown though after winning three of four, including a satisfying beatdown of Arkansas most recently. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Mississippi State is just 2-3 ATS in its last five as a favorite in the 10.5 to 21 points range, while Mississippi is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a home dog in the 10.5 to 14 points range. Grab the points.

The set-up: Charleston enters off a 70-58 road loss to Oklahoma State and it comes into the first round of the AdvoCare Invitational to face an LSU team which is unbeaten to this point, most recently downing Louisiana Tech 74-67. The Cougars are averaging 71.5 PPG and they’re allowing 68. Grant Riller lead the way with 19 points and 3.8 assists per night. LSU is averaging 87.5 PPG and it’s allowing 74.3. Naz Reid leads the way with 15.3 points and 5.3 boards per game. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but LSU is a sharp 7-2 ATS in its last nine tournament games after holding its previous opponent to 67 points or less. I think LSU’s depth will be the difference in the end, so lay the points.

The set-up: Tulsa is 4-0. Nevada is also 4-0. These two surging teams collide in the Las Vegas Holiday Invitational on Thursday afternoon and in my opinion, points will be plentiful. The Wolfpack enter off a 90-55 win over California Baptist. Jordan Brown led the way in that one with 16 points. Overall Nevada is averaging 86.5 PPG. The Golden Hurricane are averaging 79.2 PPG, led by Martins Igbanu with 15 PPG. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Tulsa has seen the total go “over” the number in 12 of its last 17 vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Nevada has seen the total go “over” in eight of its last 12 tournament games. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: The Bears have won four in a row and they enter off an epic 25-20 win at home over the Vikes last Sunday night. Can anyone say natural letdown spot? The Lions are out of the playoff picture yet, but with another loss they would be. Last week Detroit rallied for a quality 20-19 home win over the Panthers and I think the home side carries that momentum over here on the “short week.” 

The pick: Note as well that the Detroit plays with revenge after falling 34-22 in Chicago in early November. And take it for what you will, but Detroit is 4-1 ATS in its last five as an underdog. Grab the points.

The set-up: Both teams come in off victories, but the Flames have struggled in this matchup of late and I expect that trend to continue tonight. Winnipeg posted a 6-3 home victory over Vancouver on Monday, while Calgary enters off a very satisfying 7-2 victory at home over Las Vegas. Note that Winnipeg has taken two of three in the season series already. The Jets are averaging 3.2 GPG and allowing 2.5. The Flames are averaging 3.3 GPG and they’re allowing 3.00.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Jets are 48-38 (+4.8 units) the last two years after scoring four or more goals in their previous game, while the Flames are just 26-29 (-7 units) in the same position and time frame. Play on the Jets.

The set-up: The Grizzlies are 11-5 and the Spurs are 8-8. The Spurs enter motivated after a loss to the Pelicans, while the Grizz look poised for a letdown after four straight victories. San Antonio has now lost five in a row on the road, but a little “home cooking” is just what the doctor ordered for SA to get back on track in my opinion. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Grizzlies are still a horrible 10-27 ATS in their last 37 following a divisional contest and just 7-9 ATS in their last 16 after three or more consecutive victories, while San Antonio is already 4-1 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more in its previous outing. Look for the Spurs to bound back and for the Grizzlies to finally have a letdown in this difficult arena. Lay the points.

The set-up: Edmonton plays with revenge here having already dropped three of four in this season series. The Oilers will be motivated to get back on track after an embarrassing 6-3 loss to the Knights. That may be easier said than done though against the Sharks, who come in off an impressive 4-0 home victory over the Blues. Edmonton is averaging 2.85 GPG and it’s allowing 3.30. San Jose is averaging 3.24 GPG ad it’s allowing 2.95. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Edmonton has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of ten after allowing four goals or more, while San Jose has seen the total go “under” in six of its last eight after shutting out its opponent in its previous game. Play the “under.” 

The set-up: Brooklyn comes in off a 127-119 home loss to the Clippers on Saturday and I think the undermanned Nets will struggle against a Heat team out to atone for a 113-97 loss to LBJ and the Lakers. Brooklyn is averaging 109.9 PPG, but it’s allowing 111.3. Miami is averaging 109.3 PPG and it’s allowing 110.6. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but the Nets are already just 4-5 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more, while the Heat are 18-10 ATS in their last 28 following a loss by ten points or more. Lay the points and expect a rout.

The set-up: WMU lost starting QB Jon Wassink three games ago and the Broncos have lost three straight. Both teams are already bowl eligible. NIU had won six straight before a tough 13-7 home loss to Miami Ohio last weekend. The Huskies were already eligible and they ran into a buzz saw in the Redhawks, who still need one more win to qualify, but who were fighting for their lives in that one and on a win streak of their own. The Huskies are averaging only 19.8 PPG, but they’re allowing just 20.3. The Broncos are averaging 33.6 PPG and they’re allowing 34.5. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but WMU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five at home, while NIU is 4-1 ATS in its last five vs. teams with winning records. Lay the points and expect a rout.

The set-up: The is the end of a three-game trip for the under-manned Kings and I believe they’ll leave St. Louis with a 1-2 record on that swing. Most recently the Kings fell 5-3 in Nashville. The Blues are desperate though, having lost three of their last four and now sitting in last place in the Central. Most recently St. Louis fell 4-0 to the Sharks. 

The pick: Blues’ No. 1 net minder Jake Allen was not in goal in the San Jose loss. He’ll be in net tonight though and he’s 5-2 with a 1.94 GAA overall this season, while having also won his last three vs. the Kings. Take it for what you will as well, but LA is still only 2-10 in its last 12 on the road. Lay the price.

The set-up: UC Irvine enters this tournament game with a 4-0 record, while UTSA will be desperate to get off the schneid after an 0-3 start. UC Irvine comes in off a strong win over Texas A&M. The Anteaters have all five starters back from last year, led by Tommy Rutherford with 10.1 points and six boards per game. UTSA has three returning starter, led by Keaton Wallace with 11.4 PPG. 

The pick: From a situational stand point, I definitely think this one sets up as a lower-scoring affair, as UTSA can ill afford to turn this into a “track meet” and expect to hand with the high-flying Anteaters. UC Irvine comes in complacent in this neutral site affair and it all adds up to a lower-scoring “under.” 

The set-up: Outright upset? Clearly not out of the question. Minnesota most recently won 24-9 at home over Detroit two weeks ago and I think it has a legitimate shot at taking this one outright. Chicago looks primed for a letdown here as well after its 34-22 win over Detroit last weekend. Overall the Vikes are averaging 24.6 PPG and they’re allowing 22.7. The Bears are averaging 29.9 PPG and they’re allowing 19.4. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Chicago is just 8-18-1 ATS in its last 27 after allowing less than 90 rushing yards, while Minnesota is 5-1 ATS in its last six coming off a win in which it held its opponent under ten points and following its bye. Grab the points.

10* play

The set-up: The 11-8 Winnipeg Blue Bombers get ready to take on the 13-5 Calgary Stampeders in the CFL West Final and in my opinion, home field can not be overlooked as a very real deciding factor/advantage for the Stamps. Winnipeg has won six of seven and QB Chris Streveler has a 29/18 TD/INT. Calgary QB Bo Levi Mitchell has 5,124 yards and a 35/14 TD/INT. 

The pick: Take it for what you will, but Calgary is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games as a favorite in the 3.5 to 7.5 points range. Lay the points, play on the Stamps.

10* play

The set-up: The Broncos come in out of their bye hungry as they’ve lost two straight. The Chargers though could be a bit complacent here after their big win over the Raiders last week. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well but Denver is 3-1 ATS in its last four after two or more SU/ATS losses, while LA is just 8-11 ATS in its last 19 at home and only 9-10 ATS in its last 19 as a favorite. I think LA has a letdown here after last weeks win, while Denver comes in focused after its bye. Grab the points.

10* play

The set-up: Both teams come in on win streaks, but in this important divisional battle, I’m expecting more of a defensive affair. The Titans enter off a confidence building 34-10 rout of the Patriots, looking very impressive defensively. The Colts have won three straight, but I think Luck and company will have their hands full with this under-the-radar Titans’ defense.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Tennessee has seen the total go “under” the number in its last four “dome” games, while Indianapolis has seen the total go “under” in four of its last five home games when the total in the contest is greater than or equal to 49.5. This number is high, play the “under.” 

8* play

The set-up: Carolina was clobbered 52-21 in Pittsburgh last weekend and I think it’ll have its hands full with a hungry Lions team that enters off a 34-22 road loss in Chicago. Note that this is a “revenge” game as well for the Lions after Carolina posted the 27-24 road win last year. Overall the Panthers are averaging 26.8 points and allowing 25.8. Detroit is averaging 22.4 points and allowing 27.1. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Carolina is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten as a favorite in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range and just 4-6 ATS in its last ten vs. teams with losing records, while the Lions are still 10-6 ATS in their last 16 at home. Grab the points.

8* play

The set-up: Arizona State has a chance to represent the South division of the Pac 12 with a win today, but Oregon will be doing everything in its power to prevent that. ASU will be going bowling for a second straight season though win or lose. QB Manny Wilkins has 2,449 yards, 16 TD’s and four INT’s. The Sun Devils defense took a hit this week with LB Merlin Roberson suspended after last week’s game against UCLA for a dirty hit. The Ducks are 6-4, but a couple more victories will elevate their bowl berth. QB Justin Herbert is the difference maker for me in this particular matchup though. Herbert has 2,621 passing yards and 25 TD’s thus far. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but ASU is just 12-25-1 ATS in its last 38 as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range, while Oregon is 12-5 ATS in its last 17 as a favorite in the same points range. Lay the points.

10* play

The set-up: This is a big game, as the winner will claim a share of second place in the conference. Iowa State is 6-3 and it’ll secure at least a fourth-place finish in the Big 12 with a win. The Cyclones are averaging 34.4 PPG during their five-game win streak. Texas avoided a three-game losing streak by besting Texas Tech 41-34 last weekend. QB Sam Ehlinger was sharp with 312 yards and a career high four TD passes and I think he’ll carry that momentum over here in this crucial game in front of the home town crowd. 

The pick: Take it for what you will, but Texas is 12-5-2 ATS in its last 19 vs. teams with a record above .500. The Longhorns secondary catches a break this week facing the run heavy Cyclones. I have hard time seeing Iowa State matching pace down the stretch. Lay the points.

8* play

The set-up: Outright victory? Of course not. UMass saw a two game win streak snapped in a loss to BYU, while Georgia tries to stay focused over a two-game non-conference stretch before the SEC Championship game. The Minute-Men do feature offensive talent as well, including WR Andy Isabella, who had two TD catches in a triple OT win over Liberty on Nov. 3rd. 

The pick: It’s a classic trap game for the Bulldogs and I believe they fall right in. Note that Georgia is just 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. teams with losing records, while interestingly, UMass is 7-0 ATS in its last seven vs. the SEC. I’m grabbing the points.

 8* play

The set-up: It’s the No. 13 Syracuse Orange vs. the No. 3 Notre Dame Fighting Irish from Yankee Stadium in New York on Saturday and in my opinion, this one has defensive battle written all over it. The Orange enter off a high-scoring 54-23 victory over Louisville, while the Irish come in off a 42-13 home beatdown of FSU. Overall Syracuse is averaging 44.4 PPG and allowing 27.6. Notre Dame needs to win today and next week against USC and it’ll be going to the College Football playoff. Overall the Irish average 34.5 PPG and they concede only 18.7. 

The pick: Take it for what you will, but Syracuse has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine road games after scoring 52 points or more in a victory in its previous outing. The neutral site affair helps turn this into a lower-scoring “under.”

8* play

The set-up: I’m clearly not calling for an outright upset, but I do definitely expect the visiting side to keep this one more competitive than what this line would suggest. Mississippi State went blow for blow with Alabama last Saturday but fell 24-0. The Bulldogs looked “ok” defensively, but overall it was a humbling loss. Arkansas nearly upset LSU last Saturday, as QB Ty Storey went for 200 yards and two TD’s. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Arkansas is 12-4 ATS in its last 16 off a loss against a conference rival, while Mississippi State is just 3-4 ATS in its last seven as a favorite in the 21.5 to 31 points range. Grab the points.

10* play

The set-up: SMU in first place in the West Division of the American with a 4-2 overall record, while Memphis just 3-3. When these teams played last year, it was the Tigers that destroyed the Mustangs 66-45 at home. Memphis has struggled against teams like Missouri and UCF, but it enters off back to back blowout wins (47-21 over Tulsa and 59-41 over East Carolina.) So far the Tigers are averaging 531.9 YPG. SMU has won two straight as well, but like its counterpart today, defense has been the issue all year. SMU’ QB Ben Hicks has a sharp 16/4 TD:INT, but I still think the Mustangs will struggle keeping pace with the now surging Tigers.

The pick: I think Memphis lays the hammer down here despite reaching the six win plateau last weekend. SMU needs one more victory, but it’ll have to wait one more weekend to try and get it. Lay the points.

The set-up: The Blazers come in off a 126-117 road loss to the Lakers. Portland’s dropped two in a row and it’ll be eager to duplicate it’s 111-81 win over the Wolves back on November 4th. Minnesota looks primed for a letdown here as well after its 107-100 home win over New Orleans in my opinion as well. Portland comes in averaging 115.9 PPG and allowing 107.6. Minnesota averages 110.9 PPG and it allows 116.2. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Minnesota is just 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. a team with a winning SU record, while Portland is 4-0 ATS in its last four following an ATS loss. Lay the points and expect a rout.

The set-up: I’m expecting these non-conference opponents to push the pace from start to finish and I look for this total to fly “over” sooner than later. Boston will be eager to get back on track here after a two-game losing streak ended in a 6-3 setback at Colorado on Wednesday. Dallas is also eager to get back on track after a listless 2-1 loss to Columbus on Monday. In fact, Dallas has lost four of its last five. 

The pick: From a situational stand point, there’s no doubt this one definitely sets up as a higher-scoring affair in my opinion. But it also sets up great from a trend based stand point, as note that Boston has seen the total go “over” in 18 of its last 28 road games when the total in the contest is set at 5.5, while Dallas has seen the total go “over” the number in five of six already this year at home when the total in the contest is set at 5.5. Play the “over.” 

The set-up: Louisiana Tech is primed for a letdown here in my opinion after starting the year 3-0. Most recently the Bulldogs smashed Harding 89-59. Overall L-Tech is scoring 103.1 points on 100 possessions, while allowing 98.6. The Bulldogs though have turned the ball over 24.3 percent of their offensive possessions, which ranks 305th. LSU is averaging 113 points per 100 possessions and the Tigers come in off back-to-back impressive victories over UNC Greensboro and Memphis.  

The pick: Take it for what you will, but LSU is 8-2 ATS in its last ten at home, while Louisiana Tech is only 1-4 ATS in its last five following a SU win and just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 vs. teams with winning records. Lay the points and expect a rout.

 The set-up: Toronto comes in off back-to-back home losses, most recently falling 106-104 to Detroit. The Raptors will be eager to get back on track here and they’ll be feeling confident here, because when they faced Boston at home on October 19th, they left with a convincing 113-103 victory. Toronto is averaging 116.5 PPG, while allowing 109.1. The Celtics are averaging 105.6 PPG and they’re allowing 101.9. 

The pick: It’s definitely interesting to note though that Boston has seen the total go “over” in seven of its last nine in trying to revenge and in-season road loss to an opponent in which it fell by ten or more points. With each team pushing the pace, look for this total to fly “over” sooner than later.

The set-up: FAU comes in off an upset 35-14 victory over WKU, while North Texas suffered an upset loss in a 34-31 setback to Old Dominion. Note that this is a revenge game for the Mean Green after FAU posted the 69-31 home win over UNT last year. Despite last weeks win though, the Owls are still averaging only 31.1 PPG, while allowing 31.3. And despite last week’s loss, the Mean Green are still averaging 37.2 PPG and allowing 20.3. 

The pick: Note that UNT is 4-1 at home this year and 10-4 ATS in its last 14 after allowing more than 280 yards passing in its previous game, while FAU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with winning records. This one has blowout written all over it. Lay the points.

10* play

The set-up: After an unreal start the Nuggets come into this one desperate for a win after four straight losses. Denver’s lost its offense of late, but a date vs. the defense-less Hawks is just what the doctor ordered to get back on track in my opinion. And with a tough road trip starting in New Orleans on Saturday, the home side will definitely be pushing the pace from start to finish to try and take advantage of the Hawks “vanilla” offense. Clearly Atlanta won’t go down without a fight after five straight losses and with another tough upcoming game in Atlanta.

The pick: The conditions are definitely right for a higher-scoring shootout tonight. But note as well that Denver has seen the total go “over” in seven of its last nine home games following a four games or more unbeaten streak. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The play: For all intents and purposes, this is a “do or die” game for both teams. Green Bay kept its hopes alive with a 31-12 home win last weekend, while Seattle came up just short in a 36-31 setback to the Rams on Sunday. The Packers won’t be just sitting back on their heels and looking for the Hawks to make the first mistake. Green Bay is just 2-2 on the road this year and it’ll have to do what it does best and that’s give the ball to QB Aaron Rodgers and let him go to work. The Hawks looked terrible defensive last week against the “gun-slinging” Rams’ QB and I think the defense is going to have its hands full here as well. 

The pick: Note that Green Bay has seen the total go “over” in five of six against conference opponents this year and in its last six as a road dog of three points or less, while Seattle has seen the total go “over” in seven of its last ten following a divisional contest. This number is low, play the “over.” 

10* play

The set-up: I’m expecting a very competitive battle. This is the end of a six-game road trip for the Canucks and they’ll be determined to end strong. Overall Vancouver is averaging 3.1 GPG and allowing 3.5. Minnesota enters off a 5-2 home loss to Washington and it’s so far averaging 3.1 GPG and allowing 2.7.

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Vancouver is already 4-2 (+5.7 units) this year after a loss by two goals or more in its previous outing. In a contest that’s going to be decided late or in extra time, lay the price for the 1.5 goals.

The set-up: Columbus is 10-6-1 overall, but only 4-4 at home. The Blue Jackets come in off a 2-1 win at Dallas and with a tough two-game Eastern swing starting on Saturday, I look for them to carry over their momentum here. Florida on the other hand comes in complacent after five straight victories. And with a game at New York on Saturday, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught looking ahead.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Columbus is 30-15 (+9.4 units) when playing with two days of rest. Great price on the hungry home side.

The set-up: Toledo enters off a 38-15 road loss to Illinois last Wednesday, while Kent State comes in off a 48-14 loss to Buffalo on the road last Tuesday. Toledo has won three in a row in the series, including a 38-7 victory at home last year. Toledo is averaging 38.6 PPG and it’s allowing 31.5. QB Mitchel Guadagni has 1,053 passing yards and 13 TD’s, while also adding 423 on he ground and another four TD’s. Kent Tate is averaging 23.3 points and it’s allowing 35.6. QB Woody Barrett has 1,932 passing yards with ten TD’s and eight INT’s with another 422 rushing yards and six TD’s on the ground.

The play: Note that Toledo has seen the total go “over” the number in two of its last three as a favorite, while Kent State has seen the total go “over” in eight of its last 14 at home. Both teams hungry for a win. This number is a low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: WKU enters off an 86-71 home win over UT Martin, while Valparaiso comes in off a 121-65 victory over Concordia Illinois. This is part of the Myrtle Beach Invitational. The Crusaders averaged 70.4 points and allowed 68.2 last year. Ryan Fazekas leads the nightly charge and he had 18 points in Val’s most recent victory. Last year WKU averaged 70.5 PPG and it allowed 72. Taveion Hollingsworth was a standout in the latest win with 22 points.

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Valparaiso is 5-2 ATS in its last even neutral site games and 5-1 ATS in its last six following a SU win of more than 20 points. Grab the points.

The set-up: Anaheim comes in off a 2-1 shootout win over Nashville and I believe it’s primed for a predictable letdown here in this difficult road venue. The Golden Knights on the other hand will be eager to return to form after a humbling 4-1 loss to Boston in their most recent action. The Ducks are averaging only 2.21 GPG, while allowing 2.74. The Knights are averaging 2.39 GPG and allowing 2.94. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Anaheim is a poor 1-10 in its last 11 when playing on one days rest, while Vegas is still 27-11 in its last 38 vs. the Pacific. Lay the price.

The set-up: Utah got out to a slow start, but it’s back on track and I think it carries that momentum over here as well. The Jazz come in off three straight wins over Dallas, Boston and Memphis, while the Mavericks are 3-1 in their last four after besting the lowly Bulls on Monday. Dallas got 11 points from Luka Donic against the Bulls: “Sometimes, he’s gonna have bad games,” veteran point guard J.J. Barea admitted. “He’s still young, and he can’t be great every game. So we’ve got to help him out.” Utah’s already beaten the Mavs twice this season. This is simply a horrible matchup for the Mavericks and now they face a Utah team that’s firing on all cylinders. 

The pick: Note that the Jazz have averaged 115 points over the first two meetings. Note as well that the Mavs are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven at home vs. teams with winning road records. Lay the points and expect a rout.

The set-up: Two teams hungry for a win collide on Wednesday night and I believe points are going to be plentiful. Both teams come in with confidence after two straight wins to open the year. Marquette was picked to finish second in the Big East behind Villanova. Markus Howard had 37 points in the Golden Eagles’ 92-59 win over Bethune-Cookman. Indiana destroyed Montana State 80-35 in its most recent action. Romeo Langford is averaging 15.5 PPG.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Marquette has seen the total go “over” the number in 22 of its last 30 non-conference games, while Indiana has seen the total go “over” in seven of its last eight home games when the total is set between 145 to 149.5. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: Two teams which can struggle with offensive consistency collide on Wednesday night, but in my opinion, I believe we’re going to see more of a “shootout” than a “chess match.” Boston took three of four in the series last year. The Bulls come in averaging 105.9 PPG and allowing 112.4. Zach LaVine leads the way with 27.1 PPG. The C’s average 105.2 PPG an they allow 103.2. Kyrie Irving averages 21 points and 5.4 assists per game.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well but Chicago has seen the total go “over” in 50 of its last 87 vs. teams with winning records, while Boston has seen the total go “over” in three of four already this season when playing with two days rest. This number is low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: Buffalo is 9-1 and it’s won five straight. The Bulls have never opened a season 9-1 before and if they win today, they’ll clinch the division. However, I think the hungry Bobcats will battle hard and find a way to defend home turf. Previous to last week’s tough 30-28 loss to Miami Ohio, Ohio has been on fire. The Bobcats ran into an equally as hungry side in the Redhawks and they just didn’t have enough on the road. A little “home cooking” is just what the doctor ordered in my opinion though.

The pick: Note that Ohio is 6-1 ATS in its last seven against teams with winning records and 6-2 ATS in its last eight off a loss against a conference rival. Home field is the difference. Play on Ohio.

10* play

The set-up: Toronto lost its very first road game of the year in a 5-1 setback in Boston most recently. It’ll look to get back on track here and continue its road success against a Kings team which is just 5-11 overall and which enters off back-to-back losses. Clearly the Kings can’t be happy with where they sit and with the home side desperate to get back into the winners circle and also forced to match the pace of the high-tempo visitors, I believe this one has “shootout” written all over it.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Toronto has seen the total go “over” the number in 23 of its last 38 when playing with two days of rest, while LA has seen the total go “over” in 21 of its last 34 in the same position. This number is low, play the “over.”

The set-up: Both teams come in off wins. Georgetown cruised to an 85-78 victory over Central Connecticut, while Illinois smashed Evansville 99-60. Georgetown is 2-0and it’s getting solid play across the board. So far the Hoyas are averaging 76.5 PPG and allowing 65.5. The Illini have won three straight in this series, but high turnover in the offseason swings this one in favor of the Hoyas in my opinion.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Illinois is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight following an ATS victory, while Georgetown is 8-2 ATS in its last ten on the road. I like Patrick Ewing’s deeper team to keep this one competitive down the stretch. Grab the points.

The set-up: Charlotte enters off a strong 113-103 road win over Detroit and I’m expecting a similar type defensive performance here as well. Cleveland comes in off a listless 99-98 road loss to Chicago. The Hornets are averaging 116.5 PPG and they’re allowing 109.2. The Cavs are averaging only 103.3 PPG and they’re allowing 113.1. 

The pick: Take it for what you will, but Charlotte has seen the total go “under” the number in five of six already this year against teams with losing records. The Cavs have difficulty scoring on the best of days, but with the visitors looking to control the pace of this one, I expect this total to fall “under” once it’s all said and done.

The set-up: Xavier is 2-0 to open the year and I think the Musketeers carry that momentum over here. The Badgers have veteran Ethan Happ in the line-up, but I think the No. 22 team is going to have its hands full. Xavier is ranked No. 64, but it also features plenty of talent and depth. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Xavier is 24-9 ATS in its last 33 after scoring more than 90 points, while Wisconsin is just 1-4 ATS in its last five following a SU victory of more than 20 points. 

The set-up: WMU is already bowl eligible, but since losing QB Jon Wassink to injury, the Broncos have struggled on both sides of the ball. It appears the team has packed it in with just a few games remaining. The Cardinals will need to run the board to become eligible and while that’s likely not going to happen with an injury to their starting QB as well, the home side certainly won’t going down without a fight tonight.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but WMU is already 2-4 ATS this year against teams with losing records, while Ball State is 4-2 ATS in its last six as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. Grab the points and expect a competitive battle.

The set-up: What’s not to like about the Predators here? They lead the league in most offensive and defensive categories. They’re also 8-0 on the road. And with a tough game tomorrow night in San Jose, the visitors will be giving a little extra tonight to try and secure a victory. The Ducks have been more “miss” than “hit” this year and have struggled to a sub .500 record at home to this point.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Nashville is 6-2 in its last eight road games in which it’s a favorite in the -150 to -175 range. Lay the price and expect a rout.

8* play

The set-up: I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger on the under-valued underdog here. Columbus is 9-6-1 overall and 5-2-1 on the road, while Dallas is 9-6-2 overall and 6-2-1 at home. Columbus enters off a 5-4 shootout loss to the Rangers, but its already beat the Stars this year 4-1. Dallas comes in off a 5-4 OT loss to Nashville, but with four whole nights off after this before a home game against the Bruins, I think the home side gets caught “looking ahead.”

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Dallas is just 1-5 in its last six in trying to revenge an in-season loss to an opponent in which it was held to one goal or less in. Play on Columbus.

10* play

The set-up: Clearly these are two teams that would take a “mulligan” on the season if given the chance. The Giants come out of their bye week looking to avoid a 1-8 start, while the 49ers enter at 2-7. San Francisco won’t be going down quietly either, it enter off a confidence building 34-3 win over Oakland. Each team has plenty of issues on both sides of the ball and up and down the line, but from a “situational” stand point, I absolutely feel that this one sets up as a “shoot-out.” 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total go “over” the number in its last two following its bye week, while San Fran has seen the total go over in five of its last eight as a favorite. This number is low, play the “over.” 

10* play

The set-up: Utah enters off a high-scoring 123-115 win over Boston at home on Friday, while Memphis enters off a 112-106 OT home victory over Philadelphia on Saturday. Memphis has already gone 2-0 in the season series, including a 110-100 road victory in the most recent. Utah averages 111.6 PPG and it allows 109.9. Memphis averages only 103.1 PPG and it allows only 101.1 (that’s tops in the NBA!)

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Memphis has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine home games following an OT victory in which it scored 110 points or more in. This number is a little high, play the “under.”

10* play

The set-up: MTSU is 2-0, while Belmont is 1-0. The Blue Raiders most recently beat Milligan 102-70, led by 24 points from Antonio Green. Karl Gambles added 16 points and 12 boards. MTSU is averaging 96.5 PPG. Belmont comes in off the 100-89 victory over Illinois State. Dylan Windler was a standout with 20 points.

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but MTSU is 4-1 ATS in its last five on the road and 26-17 ATS in its last 53 vs. teams with winning records. Note as well that the road team is 4-1 ATS the last five in this series. Grab the points and expect a “nail biter.”

 8* play

The set-up: Both teams come in at 2-0. The Cardinal most recently pulled away for 72-59 road win over UNC-Wilmington. Kezi Okpala had 28 points and three steals. Overall Stanford is averaging 84 PPG. UNC routed Elon 116-67 most recently, as Cameron Johnson went for 21 points. Overall UNC is averaging 97 PPG. 

The pick: The Cardinal do well when playing “elite” level competition, as evidenced by their 16-5 ATS record in their last 21 vs. teams with winning records. No outright, but expect a competitive battle. Grab the points.

9* play

The set-up: Clearly the Lakers are the better team, but they have a tough game in Sacramento on Saturday night and I think its the opportunity that the desperate Hawks will need to at least keep this one competitive. The Hawks are just 3-9 overall and 1-5 on the road, but with upcoming games at Golden State, Denver and Indiana on the horizon, tonight’s contest against a tired Lakers team clearly takes on added importance.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but ATL is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games following a three games or more unbeaten streak. Grab the points.

The set-up: Both teams are 1-0, but I think that USC presents match-up issues for Vanderbilt. It did last year when the Trojans prevailed 93-89 in OT last November. The Commodores play this difficult non-conference contest, but then they return home for a series of “cream puffs.” In my opinion, this sets up as a letdown spot for Vandy.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Vanderbilt is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after scoring 90 or more points in its previous outing. Play on USC.

 10* play

The set-up: Eagles are winning and the Cowboys are losing. Dak Prescott and Dallas won’t go down without a fight here though. The Eagles have won three straight, while the Cowboys have dropped tow in a row. In last week’s 28-14 loss to Tennessee, newly acquired WR Amari Cooper had 58 yards and a TD. He’ll bring some depth to the passing game, which will in turn help out Ezekiel Elliot and the ground game. QB Dak Prescott had 248 yards and two TD passes in last week’s loss. The Eagles come in “rusty” here out of their bye in my opinion. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Philly is just 6-8 ATS in its last 14 as a favorite in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range and only 6-7 ATS in its last 13 vs. division opponents, while Dallas is 3-1 ATS in its last four after two or more consecutive SU losses. Grab the points and expect a “nail biter.” 

The set-up: The Jets are 9-5-1 overall and 6-2-1 at home. After a 5-2 victory over Colorado and with the Capitals coming to town up next, I don’t foresee the home side getting caught looking past this opportunity tonight. The Devils on the other hand have lost two straight and with a night off before a home game against the Penguins, I think the visitors get caught “looking ahead.” 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Winnipeg is 7-2 in its last nine as a home favorite in the -175 to -200 range against a non-conference opponent. Lay the price.

The set-up: Divisional battles are always the most important. The Hawks enter desperate as they fell 25-17 at home to the Chargers last week, likely getting caught “looking ahead” to this one. The Rams though look ripe for the picking in my estimation after they suffered their first loss of the season in a 45-35 setback to the Saints last Sunday. LA’s defense has been exposed and I think the veteran Russell Wilson will be able to take advantage.

The pick: This is an in-season revenge game for Seattle as well after LA edged it at home earlier in the year. Take it for what you will as well, but Seattle is 6-2 ATS in its last eight as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range. Grab the points.

The set-up: BC Lions’ QB Travis Lulay is completing just over 60 percent of his passes for 2,494 yards, 13 TD’s and 11 INT’s. The BC ground game averages 94 YPG. Defensively the Lions allow 26.3 PPG and 361.3 YPG. While BC enters the playoffs having split its last six games, the Ti-Cats enter having lost three straight. Note that Hamilton has lost three of its last four at home. QB Jeremiah Masoli has been a bright spot with a 28/18 TD:INT. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Hamilton is a poor 2-6 ATS in its last eight at home, while BC is 5-2 ATS in the last seven in this series. The Ti-Cats are currently being outscored by 7.7 points average during their three-game skid and everything points to another letdown here as well. Grab the points.

The set-up: The Redskins are still in the drivers seat for the NFC East division lead, but the Eagles are hot on their heels and they’ll be looking to bounce back here after a poor 38-14 home loss to Atlanta most recently. Tampa offers the perfect opponent to get untracked against, as they enter off a listless 42-28 road loss to Carolina. Tampa has been productive offensively so far this tar, but the Redskins are allowing just 21.5 PPG this season. Additionally note that the Bucs have the worst defense in the league, allowing 34.4 PPG.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Washington is already 4-1 ATS this year as an underdog, while Tampa is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 as a favorite. Grab the points.

The set-up: The Falcons opened 1-4, but they’ve since clawed their way back to a 4-4 record with four straight wins. Last week ATL won 36-14 in Washington. Matt Ryan and company have been playing at an extremely high level for weeks now and winning on the road is never easy. This does indeed set up as a letdown spot for the Falcons finally. Thankfully the ATL defense faces a Browns offense averaging only 20.7 PPG. Cleveland’s been decent defensively this season and that the last thing the home side can do is to turn this into a “track meet” and expect to hand with the high-flying Falcons.

The pick: Note as well that Cleveland has seen the total go “under” the number in nine of its last ten home games as an underdog in the 3.5 to seven points range. This number is a little high, play the “under.” 

The set-up: It’s essentially do or die for the Lions today. Detroit comes in off back to back losses and despite sending receiver Golden Tate to Philly, I think Matt Stafford and company will give the home side everything it can handle. The Bears have two in a row, but I’ll caution in reading too much into those victories, as it came against the lowly Jets and Bills. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Detroit is already 3-1 ATS this season as an underdog, while Chicago is just 1-4 ATS in its last five following two or more SU victories. Grab the points.

The set-up: Oregon State enters off a 38-21 loss at home to USC, while Stanford comes in desperate, having lost two straight and four of five, most recently a tight 27-23 setback at Washington last weekend. Oregon State is averaging 417.1 YPG on offense, but it’s very weak defensively, allowing 262.3 YPG through the air and 274.8 YPG on the ground. Stanford is allowing 266.3 YPG through the air and it’s averaging 26.1 PPG overall. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but the Cardinal are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home games after two or more consecutive SU/ATS setbacks. Lay the points and expect a rout.

The set-up: This is a great “situational” play in my opinion. San Antonio comes in off back-to-back losses and it looks primed for a letdown with a tough Western trip starting on Monday in my opinion. Houston will look to take advantage and to get back on track after a listless effort in OKC last time out, snapping a three-game slide. But with a tough game tomorrow night at home against the Pacers, James Harden and company aren’t going to want to leave anything to chance here.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Houston is 7-2 ATS in its last nine following a SU/ATS road loss and playing another road game right after. Play on the Rockets.

The set-up: Auburn enters off a confidence building 28-24 home win over No. 20 Texas A&M on Saturday, while Georgia looks primed for a bit of a letdown here after clinching the SEC East title and a spot in the SEC Championship Game after beating No. 9 Kentucky 34-17 at home last week. This is a revenge game as well for Auburn after Georgia won 27-7 in the SEC title game on December 2nd, 2017. The Tigers enter averaging 28.3 PPG, while allowing 17.3. The Bulldogs enter averaging 38.1 PPG and allowing 16.4. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Auburn is 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games as an underdog of two TD’s or more. I’m banking on a competitive affair. Grab the points.

The set-up: It’s the “Bedlam Series” this weekend and the Sooners wine this game on the road by a score of 62-52. I don’t think we’ll see such a high-scoring shootout this time around, but I do expect a similar final discrepancy in score once it’s all said and done. Oklahoma State comes in off a 35-31 road loss to Baylor, while Oklahoma enters off a 51-46 road victory over Texas Tech. Oklahoma State is averaging 38.3 PPG and it’s allowing 29.9. Oklahoma is averaging 49.1 PPG and it’s allowing 27.9. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Oklahoma is just 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. teams with winning records, while Oklahoma State is interestingly 6-2 ATS in its last eight after posting more than 450 total yards in its previous game. Also note that the road team is 5-1 ATS the last six in this series. Grab the points.

At 3:30pmET, my selection is one Michigan/Rutgers to finish OVER the total. As one of the lowest totals on the board, I believe that this game gives everyone great value on the OVER. Michigan may even enough to score higher than the total themselves as they average 37 PPG this season so far. The last time the Wolverines played in HighPoint.com Stadium, they scored a total of 78 points. Look for another high scoring game. Take the OVER.

The set-up: The Knicks come in off a 112-107 road win over the Hawks, while the Raptors moved to 11-1 after a 114-105 victory at Sacramento to cap off a perfect 5-0 West Coast road trip. New York is averaging 107.3 PPG and it’s allowing 109.9. Toronto is averaging 117.1 PPG and it’s allowing 107.8, which is ranked seventh and ninth respectively. 

The pick: Kawhi Leonard has been dealing with an injury and Toronto has still found ways to win. But there’s no doubt this one sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for Toronto with the lowly Knicks coming to town. This number is high, play the “under.” 10* 

The set-up: Nashville is 12-3 overall, including 7-0 on the road. Dallas is 9-6-1 overall, including 6-2-0 at home. The Predators come in on top form as they’ve won four straight. The Stars broke a two-game slide with a 4-3 win at home over the Sharks and I believe we’ll see another wide-open/competitive affair between these two surging sides as well on Saturday. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Dallas has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine after scoring four goals or more in a victory in its previous outing. This number is a little low, play the “over.” 

The set-up: Has there been any bigger surprise than the Vancouver Canucks this season? No team has done more with less. Buffalo enters off a 6-5 OT win over the Habs, but with a game against Tampa Bay on Monday, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side looking past its lowly non-conference opponent this afternoon. The Canucks are off an 8-5 win at Boston and are 5-2 on the overall. 

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Buffalo is just 2-7 in its last nine after scoring six goals or more in an OT victory in its previous outing. Lay the price for the 1.5 goals “puck line.” 10*

The set-up: Wisconsin enters off a 31-17 win over Rutgers, while Penn State comes in dejected after a humbling 42-7 road loss at No. 5 Michigan last Saturday. While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I’m banking on a much tighter battle than what this spread would indicate. Wisconsin is averaging 31 PPG and it’s allowing 20.9. QB Alex Hornibrook has 1,343 yards with an 11/8 TD:INT. Penn State is averaging 37.2 PPG and it’s allowing 24.4. QB Trace McSorely has 1,711 passing yards and a 12/5 TD:INT. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Penn State is just 2-13-2 ATS in its last 17 following a SU loss and 0-6-1 ATS in its last seven after scoring less than 20 points in its previous game, while Wisconsin is 7-1 ATS in its last eight road games vs. teams with winning home records. For all the reasons listed above, grab the points.

10* MSU

The set-up: Ohio State comes in off a tough 36-31 home win over Nebraska and I think it’ll have its hands full here as well in this difficult road venue. Michigan State enters off a 24-3 win over Maryland. This is a big time revenge game as well for the Spartans, as Ohio State has taken two straight in the series, including a 48-3 victory last November. Ohio State is averaging 42.2 PPG and it’s allowing 23.8, while MSU is averaging 23.4 PPG, while allowing just 19. 

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Ohio State is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight following a two games or more unbeaten streak and in which it’s a road fav in the -3 to -10 points range, while MSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after allowing three points or less in its previous contest. This one has the all the makings of whichever team that has its hands on the ball last is going to come out on top. Grab the points.