GAME OF THE YEAR (NFL): MIKE'S BEST NFL TOTAL FOR 2018/19 REG SEASON!

The LA Chargers are 8-4 to the under this season. Last week's matchup at Denver saw 43 points scored between the two teams with a closing total of 39, but I'm extremely confident the total is set too high when they visit the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday afternoon. 

Points have been hard to come by for Jacksonville all season, but recent weeks have been particularly poor with an average of just 11.8 ppg through a four-game skid. Gardner Minshew will be back at the helm following a disastrous Nick Foles comeback, but I don't see him moving the ball freely against this competent Chargers defense that tranks 4th in the NFL against the pass with fewer than 200 passing yards allowed per game. 

Additionally, note that the Chargers are one of the slowest teams in the NFL taking almost 29 seconds between plays and the Jags are unlikely to push the tempo as a home dog. 

Under is 20-5-1 in Chargers last 26 games in December. Under is 9-2 in Jaguars last 11 home games.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND TOTAL

The Clemson Tigers will do battle with the Virginia Cavaliers in the 2019 ACC Championship Game Saturday night, but looking at the points spread it's not supposed to be much of a contest. 

The Tigers are favored by four touchdowns, and while scores should come easy for this very talented Clemson team, I like the Cavs to put their fair share of points on the board as well. 

This is the fifth game of the season as a dog for Virginia with three of the previous four going over the total. It's last time out as an underdog it put up 39 points in a straight up win over Virginia Tech as senior quarterback Bryce Perkins had another big game with 475 yards total offense and three scores. 

Clemson has limited its last two opponents to three points each, but Virginia has more offensive firepower than Wake Forest and South Carolina.

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED SATURDAY NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The Dallas Mavericks own the best offensive efficiency rating in the NBA while the New Orleans Pelicans have one of the worst defensive efficiency scores. The Mavs are 14-7 to the over overall on the season and the over/under is 7-2 in Mavericks last 9 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. The Pels enter this game on a seven-game losing streak during which they've allowed boatloads of points. Last time out, they took a 139-132 OT loss to Phoenix and the over is 15-7 in Pelicans last 22 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game.

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED COWBOYS @ BEARS THURSDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Dallas Cowboys took a 26-15 loss to Buffalo last week and their sputtering offense has scored a total of just 24 points over the last two games. Dallas still owns the top ranked offense at 432.8 yards per game, but moving the ball against a Chicago Bears team that ranks near the top of the league for most defensive categories and has allowed an average of just 17.3 ppg on the season won't be easy. As for the Bears offense, they scare no one with only Washington, the NY Jets and Miami averaging fewer total yards of offense per game. 

The cold Chicago weather won't do either team's offense any favors either, and we can note that under is 13-3 in Cowboys last 16 games in December and 4-0 in Bears last 4 games in December. Additionally, the under is 5-0 in Bears last 5 games as an underdog.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): TOP RATED 10* WEDNESDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Dallas Mavericks have won three on the bounce and eight of their last nine following a 118-97 win over New Orleans Tuesday night. They're a home favorite here against Minnesota but might find themselves in a tough spot with heavy legs. 

They'll face a Timberwolves team that has the fourth-highest pace factor in the league and will be playing on two days rest, so the visitors will surely make the Mavs run up and down the court. 

Scoring points is never an issue for the Mavericks who enter Wednesday with the highest offensive efficiency rating in the NBA, but playing on no rest might very well show on the defensive end. 

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED LAKERS @ NUGGETS BEST BET

The LA Lakers had won 10 on the bounce prior to a 114-100 loss to Dallas last time out. Under is 5-0 in Lakers last 5 overall and 29-14 in their last 43 games following a straight up loss. Here they'll face a Denver team that played a sub-200 point game at Sacramento on Saturday despite going to overtime.

Denver has the 2nd best defensive efficiency rating in the NBA this season with 99.9 points allowed per 100 possessions while the Lakers are 4th with 100.3 points allowed per 100 possessions. Additionally, neither team is likely to push the tempo, especially with Denver rated the 4th slowest team in the league on the season. 

Under is 22-8 in Nuggets last 30 home games and 20-8-1 in their last 29 games playing on two days rest.

10* play on UNDER. 

WARRIORS @ HAWKS TOP RATED NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

These are two of the worst teams in the league on the defensive side of the ball with the Golden State Warriors giving up 116 ppg and the Atlanta Hawks 119 ppg. 

Additionally, both sides have a pace factor that ranks in the top half of the league with the Hawks tied for 8th averaging 15.4 possessions per game. 

Last time out the Hawks surrendered 158 points at Houston and they're 11-2 to the over in their last 13 games. The Warriors took a loss in a low-scoring game at Orlando on Sunday, but the over is 6-1 in their last seven in the second game of a back-to-back situation.

While both sides can be inconsistent when on the ball, I think their issues of getting stops are even bigger.

10* play on OVER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The Houston Texans have won three of their last four following a 20-17 win over Indianapolis last week. The lone loss during that four-game stretch was of the blowout variety at Baltimore, and I think they'll find it hard to keep it close here when hosting another of the true elite teams in the NFL Sunday afternoon. 

The New England Patriots have just one loss on the season (to Baltimore) and they're 7-4 ATS, despite often asked to cover inflated numbers. They came up just short of covering the point spread in a 13-9 win over Dallas last week but are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after scoring less than 15 points in their previous game and 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games in December.

The Texans on the other hand are 2-9-1 ATS in their last 12 games in December and 1-5 ATS vs. a team with a winning record. 

The Pats have a chance to wrap up a playoff spot with a win here, and you better believe Bill Belichick would prefer to clinch it ASAP. 

Additionally, I like the trends supporting a relatively low-scoring game:

Under is 10-2 in Patriots last 12 games in December. Under is 25-10 in Patriots last 35 road games. Under is 8-1 in Texans last 9 home games. Under is 8-3 in Texans last 11 games in December.

8* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The New Orleans Pelicans are tied for the fourth highest pace factor in the NBA this season and they're tied for 24th in defensive efficiency. They've allowed 121+ ppg through a four-game losing streak. As for the OKC Thunder, they tend to play high-scoring games against poor teams with the over 7-2 in their last 9 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Additionally, the over is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings at Smoothie King Center.

8* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The LA Lakers have one of the best defensive efficiency ratings in the league, but they'll have their work cut out for them here against a Dallas Mavericks side that has the very highest offensive effiency rating with 113.7 points per 100 possessions. The Mavs have averaged 120.9 ppg through their eight road games on the season with seven of those contests going over the total. 

8* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Memphis Grizzlies rank bottom 10 in the NBA for defensive efficiency and they have the 6th highest pace factor. The Minnesota Timberwolves are tied for the fourth-highest pace factor in the league and have averaged 119 ppg over their last two games. Over is 5-0 in Grizzlies last 5 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and 11-4 in Timberwolves last 15 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. 

The over is 8-4 in Minnesota games with a total over 225 points this season. 

8* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED SUNDAY AFTERNOON TOTAL

I expect points to come relatively easy for both teams when the 6-5 Indianapolis Colts host the 6-5 Tennessee Titans Sunday afternoon. 

Tennessee has scored a total of 77 points in its last two games and QB Ryan Tannehill has a 10-4 TD/INT ratio since taking over from Marcus Mariota. The Titans churned out 219 rushing yards with four scores on the ground against Jacksonville last time out, and here they'll face a Colts D that has allowed 144.2 rushing yards per game on the season. 

As for the Titans D, it has allowed 52 points in the last two games and the Colts will be desperate for a win after losing three of their last four. 

Over is 5-0 in Titans last 5 games overall.

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE YEAR (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED REG SEASON TOTAL

I'm confident we'll see this early Saturday afternoon matchup between the Northwestern Wildcats and the Illinois Fighting Illini stay under the total. 

Illinois has had a solid season by its standards, despite dropping a 19-10 decision at Iowa last week. Limiting Iowa to fewer than 20 points is quite impressive, and the Fighting Illini have played solid defense in recent weeks resulting in four of its last five going under the total. 

As for Northwestern, It has struggled to put points on the board all season and has averaged just 8.8 points scored away from home. That being said, the Wildcats have also allowed only 22.0 ppg on the road and the under is 4-0 in Wildcats four road games on the season. ´

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED FRIDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Portland Trail Blazers have answered a four-game skid with back-to-back triumphs through which they've averaged 126.5 ppg. and the first of those two wins was a 117-94 win at Chicago on Nov 25. I think we'll see more points on the board for both teams here in the rematch on Black Friday. 

The Bulls may be one of the worst teams in the NBA for several offensive categories, but points should come fairly easy against a Portland side that ranks in the bottom 10 for defensive efficiency. Additionally, Portland has a top 10 pace factor and I think the home team will push the tempo and that the visitors will be more or less forced to oblige. 

Over is 9-2-1 in Trail Blazers last 12 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400. Over is 4-1 in Trail Blazers last 5 Friday games. Over is 6-2 in Bulls last 8 Friday games.

10* play on OVER. 

LATE NIGHT NBA TOTAL *TOP PLAY*

The Golden State Warriors are having an absolutely abysmal year. Injuries have not helped matters and there's a clear lack of healthy shooting talent on the roster right now. 

The Warriors shot just 41.6 percent from the field in a 100-97 loss to the OKC Thunder Monday night and they're 5-2 to the under over their last seven games. As for the Chicago Bulls, they were held to 41.9 percent shooting in a 117-94 loss to Portland last time out. On the season, Chicago ranks 27th for offensive efficiency and Golden State 24th. 

Under is 13-3 in Bulls last 16 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Under is 4-1 in Warriors last 5 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The New York Knicks have the second worst offensive efficiency in the NBA and only Orlando has a slower pace factor. They're 12-5 to the under on the season and here they'll face one of the best defensive teams in the league. The Toronto Raptors are coming off an impressive 101-96 win over Philly, and this looks like another game where they'll slow down the tempo and grind down their opponent. 

Under is 9-2-1 in Knicks last 12 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

8* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Detroit Pistons are 4-1 to the under over their last five games. They've been limited to 90 points or fewer in two of those contests and held Orlando to 88 points in 103-88 triumph Monday night. As for the Charlotte Hornets, they've surrendered plenty of points through a five-game skid but should not be too worried about the Pistons, one of the slowest teams in the NBA, to run up the score. 

Under is 5-0-1 in the last 6 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Two of the hottest teams in the Association will battle it out Tuesday night as the Dallas Mavericks host the LA Clippers. 

Dallas has won five straight SU and ATS and it has scored 137+ points in each of its last three games, including an impressive 137-123 triumph at Houston last time out. The Clippers have also won their last five straight up but had failed to cover the spread in three straight prior to a 134-109 beatdown of New Orleans last time out. I think this game will mean a lot more for the Mavs who will be looking forward to this opportunity to take down an elite team in front of the home town crowd. 

The Clippers are 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a winning home record, and despite their 12-5 overall record, they're just 1-4 SU and ATS on the road this season. The Mavs are 35-16 ATS in their last 51 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and they've covered the spread on four straight occasions when hosting the Clippers. 

I also expect both teams to put up plenty of points to push the final score over the posted total. 

8* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NCAAB): MIKE'S TOP RATED CANCUN CHALLENGE TOTAL

The South Carolina Gamecocks have scored 70+ points in three straight games that all went over the total. I think points will be harder to come by here in their semifinal matchups of the Cancun Challenge as they'll face a Wichita State team that has held back-to-back opponents to fewer than 60 points and has held all five opponents to fewer than 63 points this season.  

Over/under is 2-8 in South Carolina's last 10 games on a neutral court game where the total is 130 to 134.5 and all but one of the Shockers' five games this season have gone under the total. 

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY 

The red hot LA Lakers travel to San Antonio riding a seven-game winning streak. They've scored 120 points or more in five of those games and here they'll face a San Antonio Spurs team that has had huge issues on the defensive end of the hardwood all season long. 

The Spurs surrendered a ridiculous 122.4 ppg through an ugly eight-game skid before picking up a 111-104 win at the low-scoring New York Knicks on Saturday. They have one of the worst defensive efficiencies in the league, but on the flip side, they're also top five for offensive efficiency and I think they'll force the Lakers into a shootout.

Over is 9-2 in Spurs last 11 home games. Over is 12-4 in the last 16 meetings.

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED NFL TOTAL FOR NOVEMBER

The Atlanta Hawks defense has improved a lot lately and they've held their last two opponents to a combined 12 points. 

The Falcons are still one of the worst teams in the league against the pass and allowed a mediocre QB like Kyle Allen to throw for 325 yards last week (but also picked him off four times). Here they'll face a Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that very much prefers to move the ball through the air and ranks 4th in the NFL with 285.6 passing yards per game. 

One of the few teams ahead of the Bucs in passing yards per game is Atlanta with its 300.3 pypg, and while Tampa Bay is one of the best teams at stopping the run, it is the second-worst in the league against the pass. 

I expect both teams to have plenty of success with explosive plays and a pass first, run second approach which also will stop the clock from running. 

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED SATURDAY TOTAL

The Atlanta Hawks have one of the worst defensive efficiency ratings in the NBA, and their lack of defense was on full display in Friday night's 128-103 loss at Detroit. 

Playing on no rest won't do the Hawks any favors, and I expect the Raptors to run up the score quite freely. That being said, Atlanta has scored 100+ points in eight straight games and they put up 127 their last time out home at State Farm Arena. 

Over is 4-0 in Raptors last 4 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Over is 8-0 in Hawks last 8 overall.

10* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Houston Rockets have one of the best offensive efficiency ratings in the league and only Milwaukee beats them for pace. They had won eight on the bounce and averaged 123 ppg through their last three before coming out flat in a 105-95 loss at Denver last time out. The Rockets defense can easily be exploited by top teams, and the Clippers with their 10-5 record fall into that category. Additionally, note that over is 13-6 in Clippers last 19 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

8* play on OVER. 

SPURS @ SIXERS FRIDAY NIGHT *TOP PLAY*

The San Antonio Spurs are going through a miserable stretch with losses in seven straight games, during which they've allowed an average of 123.4 ppg.

Here they'll face a Philadelphia team that hardly has been lighting up the scoreboard lately, but the over is still 7-3 in 76ers last 10 overall. 7-1 in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

The Spurs can't defend against anyone, but they can put points on the board and I expect the final score to breeze over the posted total. 

10* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Atlanta Hawks have allowed an average of 134 ppg through a four-game slide. They've topped 100 themselves in each of those games and put up a healthy 127 points against Milwaukee last time out, but still lost by eight. The Hawks rank near the bottom of the league for defensive efficiency, and Detroit is only marginally better. The Pistons have also dropped five on the bounce, and I think we'll see these two bottom-feeders try to outscore each other rather than hoping to shut down their opponent. 

8* play OVER. 

TOP RATED 10* PELS @ SUNS TOTAL *BAILOUT PLAY*

Both the New Orleans Pelicans and the Phoenix Suns have top 10 offensive efficiency ratings on the season. The Pels are also one of the worst defensive teams in the league though with 118.9 points allowed per game on average and I'm confident we'll see points come fast and easy for both teams in this contest.

The Suns took a 120-116 loss at Sacramento a couple of nights ago and they're on a 10-2 run to the over following a straight up loss. Additionally, the over is 5-1 in the last 6 head-to-head meetings.

10* play on OVER. 

CAVS @ HEAT WEDNESDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Cleveland Cavaliers have averaged just 98.5 ppg through a four-game skid. Here they'll face one of the best defensive teams in the NBA in the Miami Heat who are holding opponents to 98.4 points per 100 possessions. With Cleveland near the bottom of the league for pace and Miami only marginally better, I think we have a solid case for a low-scoring game.

Under is 5-1 in Cavaliers' last 6 overall. Under is 7-2 in Heat's last 9 overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The New York Knicks are one of the worst offensive teams in the NBA, and they're most likely in for a tough one against a Philadelphia team that is holding opponents to a solid 102.7 points per 100 possessions. The Knicks are also among the slowest teams in the league with just over 100 possesions per game while the Sixers rank in the middle of the pack for pace. 

The Knicks are coming off a 123-105 win over Cleveland on Monday. The under is 11-2-1 in their last 14 games playing on 1 days rest and 23-9-1 in their last 33 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. Philly had put a 114-95 beating on that same Cleveland team the night before, and the under is 10-4 in its last 14 games following a straight up win of more than 10 points.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA): MIKE'S BEST NBA TOTAL FOR NOVEMBER

The LA Lakers are tied for the best record in the league while having the very best point-differential, and arguably the biggest reason for their success is their play on the defensive end of the hardwood. The Lakers have the very best defensive efficiency in the NBA (even better than Utah!) and they've allowed an average of just over 97 ppg over their last three contests. The OKC Thunder have been held to fewer than 90 points in two of their last three games, including a 90-88 loss to the Clippers here at Staples Center Monday night. 

Under is 34-16-1 in Thunder last 51 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Under is 15-7 in Lakers last 22 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Under is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

HORNETS @ RAPTORS MONDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Charlotte Hornets are 4-2 to the under over their last six games, and their very last matchup (at New York on Saturday) saw just a total of 205 points scored. Here they'll run into one of the strongest defenses in the league, and I think this looks primed to be a low-scoring affair. The Raptors are just coming back from a tough five-game road trip and ran out of gas in the second half of a loss at Dallas last time out so they're unlikely to drive up the tempo. Meanwhile, I don't see why Charlotte would want to turn this into anything but a slow game they might be able to steal. 

Under is 4-0 in Raptors last 4 Monday games. Under is 6-1 in Hornets last 7 Monday games.

8* play on UNDER. 

MONDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

The New York Knicks have the worst offensive efficiency in the NBA while the Cleveland Cavaliers are only marginally better, and they've been held to 97 points or fewer in three straight games. The Knicks are 8-2 to the under in their last 10 games while the Cavs have seen each of their last five games go under the total. 

Scared of the low number? Don't be. Note that the over/under is 3-8 in Knicks games with a total under 218 points and 0-5 in the Cavs' five games with a total lower than 215 points. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED HAWKS @ LAKERS NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The LA Lakers have the best defensive efficiency in the league, allowing just 97.2 points per 100 possessions. Atlanta has one of the worst offensive efficiency ratings in the NBA and the Hawks will be playing on no rest after taking a 119-83 beating by the Clippers last night. I think we can safely assume that the Clippers will run away with this game early and then keep the Hawks at a distance.   

Under is 15-6 in Lakers last 21 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Los Angeles.

10* play on UNDER. 

EARLY 76ERS @ CAVS NBA BANKROLL BUILDER

Both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Philadelphia 76ers rank in the bottom half of the league for pace with Cleveland just outside of the bottom five. The Cavs have played four straight unders and they've been held to 97 points in back-to-back games. Philly gave up 127 points in an OT loss at OKC last time out, but note that the under is 7-2 in the 76ers last 9 games after allowing more than 125 points in their previous game.

Additionally, the under is 6-2 in Cleveland games with a total lower than 218 points.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED WEEK 11 TOTAL

The Atlanta Falcons have allowed 28.1 ppg on the season, but their defense has been playing much better in recent weeks. Last time out they held Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints without a touchdown in a 26-9 win, and here today they will face a Carolina team that scored just 16 points at Green Bay last week. On a positive note, the Panthers defense held Aaron Rodgers to just 233 passing yards without a touchdown, and I think they'll be able to slow down the Falcons prolific passing attack.

Under is 5-0 in Falcons last 5 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 19-9 in Panthers' last 28 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Under is 9-2-1 in the last 12 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED TOTAL

San Antonio Spurs have one of the worst marks in the league for defensive efficiency, and this looks like a trouble spot defensively as they'll be playing on no rest.

The over is 15-5 in Spurs last 20 games playing on 0 days rest, and for all of Portland's struggles this season, putting the ball in the basket has rarely been an issue.

The Blazers will be playing on two days rest and I think they'll drive up the tempo to take advantage of the home team's tired legs, forcing a high-paced shootout.

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED 10* FRIDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

The books have posted an extremely high total for this matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Washington Wizards Friday night, but do not let the high number intimidate you. 

Note that the over is 51-33-1 (60%) in games with a closing number of 235+ points since the start of last season, and while I would not recommend betting the over blindly in those spots moving forward, we have a strong case for this contest to fly over the posted total. 

Both teams rank in the top 10 for pace (Minnesota 4th, Washington 7th) and only Golden State has a worse defensive efficiency (the number of points a team allows per 100 possessions) than the Wizards. Additionally, both teams are averaging over 115 ppg, and that's against a mixed bucket of opponents, most with better defenses than we'll see here. 

Over is 6-1 in Timberwolves last 7 overall. Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED 10* THURSDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

The Atlanta Hawks won 125-121 at Denver on Tuesday and the over is 3-0 in their last three games. The Phoenix Suns took a 123-115 home loss to the Lakers last time out and the over is 4-0 in their last four games. Phoenix has among the best offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions) numbers in the league and they're also in the top third for pace. I'm confident they'll make the Hawks run in this one, forcing a fast-paced and high-scoring game. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The Buffalo Sabres are 2-1 as a home dog on the season, with all three games going under the total. 

Here they'll host a Carolina team that has lost three straight games as road favorites, and Buffalo should come out some urgency here looking to snap an ugly five-game slide.

The Canes just ended a four-game losing streak of their own with a dominant 8-2 win over Ottawa. I would not be surprised if they come out flat here.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED MONDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

Golden State has been atrocious on the defensive end of the hardwood in recent games, but the Utah Jazz just might come out flat offensively in this following back-to-back home wins over two NBA heavyweights in Philadelphia and Milwaukee.

The Jazz have the best defensive efficiency in the league, and this edition of the Golden State Warriors lack the firepower to break them down. 

Under is 11-2-1 in Jazz last 14 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Under is 20-6-1 in Warriors last 27 vs. a team with a winning straight up record.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED RAPTORS @ LAKERS TOTAL

The LA Lakers rank top of the league in defensive efficiency giving up just 94.5 points per 100 possessions and the Toronto Raptors are in the top 10. The under is 12-5-1 in the Raptors last 18 road games and 7-2 in the Lakers last 9 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600. Additionally, the under is 7-2 in the last 9 head-to-head meetings.

The Raptors are shorthanded with All-Star point guard Kyle Lowry and backup big man Serge Ibaka out. I think they'll try and slow down the pace to make it hard for the Lakers to run away with the game, and the Lakers are not playing at a particularly high pace as it is. 

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED WEEK 10 TOTAL

The Cincinnati Bengals have put up 17, 17 and 10 points in their last three games. Under is 6-2 in their eight games on the season and I think we'll see a relatively low-scoring affair when they host AFC North rivals Baltimore Ravens Sunday afternoon. I would not be surprised to see Baltimore come out flat here following a massive 37-20 win over New England last week, no facing a winless Cincinnati team and with Houston on deck. 

The Ravens picked up a 23-17 win over the Bengals home in Baltimore on Oct. 13 with a total closing at 47 points. The books have adjusted the total somewhat for this contest, but not enough if you ask me. 

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED WEEK 11 TOTAL

The over/under is 1-3 in the Florida Atlantic Owls' four home games on the season, and I think they're in for another low-scoring contest when hosting the Florida International Golden Panthers on Saturday.

The under is 9-5 in Florida Atlantic's last 14 games as a favorite and they'll face a Golden Panthers team that has scored a total of just 41 points over its last two games. The visitors did hold Old Dominion to 17 points last time out, and they can achieve bowl eligibility with a victory in this game but I doubt they like their chances in a shootout.

The Owls defense has conceded only a combined 27 points in their last two games and is unlikely to give up a big number here. 

10* play on UNDER. 

CELTICS @ SPURS TOTAL

The Boston Celtics held Charlotte to 87 points last time out, but here they'll face an opponent much more capable of putting the ball in the bucket. The Over is 7-1 in the San Antonio Spurs last eight home games and a perfect 2-0 in their games with a total lower than 217 points this season. 

Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in San Antonio. Over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings overall. 

8* play on OVER. 

GRIZZLIES @ MAGIC FRIDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Orlando Magic are playing at the slowest pace in the NBA and they also have the worst offensive efficiency. The Memphis Grizzlies are playing at a much higher pace but their effective field goal percentage is among the worst in the league.

Memphis is coming off a 137-point outing against Minnesota, but the under 10-4 in Grizzlies last 14 games after scoring more than 125 points in their previous game and 1-6-1 in Orlando's eight games on the season. 

8* play on UNDER. 

CELTICS @ HORNETS TOP RATED TOTAL

The Charlotte Hornets defeated the Indiana Pacers 122-120 in OT last time out to improve to 4-3 overall and 2-1 at home. They struggled big time on the defensive end in their first two home games though, and here they'll face a Boston Celtics side that is coming off a 119-113 win at Cleveland to make it four wins on the bounce. The Celtics have scored 116+ points in three of those wins and each of the last five games in this series has gone over the total.

Over is 5-1-1 in Hornets last 7 home games and 13-5-1 in their last 19 games following a straight up win.

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED 10* 76ERS @ JAZZ NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

The Utah Jazz have opened the season with seven straight unders, and I think another relatively low-scoring affair is in the cards when they host the Philadelphia 76ers Wednesday night. 

The Sixers will be looking to bounce back from a 114-109 loss at Phoenix Suns on Monday, and they're likely to be focusing on getting the defense right. "Obviously defensively, I thought they never really felt us in the second half," forward Tobias Harris told reporters after the setback. "They got too many easy looks, too many open looks. So, I thought that was probably the biggest adjustment." 

Overall on the season, Philly is still a top 10 team in defensive efficiency, a category the Jazz rank no. 1 for, but Utah is also one of the worst teams in the league in offensive efficiency.  

Under is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Utah and 9-2 in the last 11 meetings overall.

10* play on UNDER. 

LAKERS @ BULLS TUESDAY NIGHT *TOP PLAY*

The LA Lakers have played locked down basketball lately holding opponents to an average of 96.8 ppg through a five-game winning streak, and that's despite one of the games going to OT. They lead the league in defensive efficiency (the number of points a team allows per 100 possessions) and here they'll face a Chicago team that has been held to fewer than 100 points in three of its last four games. 

Under is 26-10-1 in the Bulls last 37 home games vs. a team with a winning road record while the under is 14-5 in Lakers last 19 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400 and I think they'll limit the damage the 2-5 Bulls can do on offense. 

10* play on UNDER. 

SPURS @ HAWKS TOTAL

The Atlanta Hawks are coming off back-to-back 97-point outings against Miami, but I think they'll put a decent amount of points on the board in this one. 

This San Antonio Spurs team is not of the same mold as what we've seen in recent seasons as they're playing a much higher pace and with more points on both ends of the hardwood as a result. 

The Spurs rank top 10 for offensive efficiency and the over/under is 4-2 in their six games on the season. Additionally, both teams will be fairly well rested, particularly the Hawks as this will be their first game of the month. 

The over/under is 50-35-2 since the start of the 2017 season with one team playing on 3+ days of rest and the opponent has had at least one day between games. 

8* play on OVER. 

BUCKS @ WOLVES MONDAY NIGHT NBA TOTAL

Both the 4-2 Milwaukee Bucks and the 4-1 Minnesota Timberwolves are off to fast starts to the season thanks to good shooting with both sides averaging almost 120 ppg. 

Minnesota is coming off a 131-109 win over Washington but will have to do without its star center Karl-Anthony Towns who is suspended. Milwaukee superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo collected 36 points on 14-of-20 shooting, 15 rebounds, eight assists in a 115-105 win over Toronto last time out. The Greek Freak should have another big game with Towns not there to challenge him, and as for when the Wolves have the ball, expect them to move it up the floor quickly with only Houston averaging more possessions per game. 

Over is 12-3-1 in Bucks last 16 road games vs. a team with a winning home record and 9-4 in Timberwolves last 13 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

8* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NBA): MIKE'S JAZZ @ CLIPPERS TOTAL TOP PLAY

The Utah Jazz have the best scoring defense in the NBA with only 94.0 ppg allowed per game while holding opponents to 42.1 percent shooting from the field. They're also one of the slowest teams with just 100.7 possessions per game and have yet to see any of their games go over the total this season. The Clippers have also stepped it up a notch on the defensive end in recent games and limited the Spurs to 97 points last time out. Under is 3-0 in their last three overall and 4-1 in Clippers last 5 home games. 

We saw just a total of 206 points when these two teams did battle at Utah earlier this week, and I think this will be another low-scoring affair. 

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED WEEK 9 TOTAL

The Carolina Panthers defense will be ready for this one after giving up 50+ points to San Francisco last week. Note that the over/under is 4-11 in the last 15 NFL games where one of the teams conceded 50 points or more its last game. 

Here Carolina will face a Tennessee Titans team that has struggled all season long and will have Ryan Tannehill under center for a second straight week after benching Marcus Mariota. Tennessee's offense is among the worst in the league averaging only 5.0 yards per play and Carolina is only marginally better at 5.2 ypp. 

Both teams are much more accomplished on the defensive side of the ball, and Titans run defense should be able to if not stop, at least contain Panthers' star running back Christian McCaffrey. 

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

The Philadelphia 76ers have the fourth best scoring defense in the league and they have held opponents to 35.5 percent shooting from the field.

The Portland Trail Blazers shot just 39.5 percent in a 102-99 win at OKC last time out, and while they generally shoot the ball much better home at Moda Center I don't see points coming easy in this one. 

Under is 3-1 in the Sixers four games on the season and 6-2 in their last 8 vs. teams from the Western Conference. 

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Washington Wizards have seen an average of 280+ points scored over their last two games, and I think we'll see another high-scoring affair when they visit the Minnesota Timberwolves Saturday night.

Minnesota has averaged a healthy 114.8 ppg on the season and it has played at the 6th highest pace in the league entering Saturday's slate of games.  

Over is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Washington and 6-1 in the last 7 meetings overall.

8* play on OVER. 

NBA 3-PACK

Two of the best teams in the East will battle it out Saturday as the Toronto Raptors visit the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum. Milwaukee is just 2-2 on the season despite averaging 120.0 ppg overall and 127.5 ppg in two games at home. They put a 123-91 beating on the Magic at Orlando last night and they'll face a Raptors team off 125-113 win over Detroit.

Both teams rank in the top 10 for offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions) and Milwaukee tops the league for effective field goal percentage.

The over is 8-3 in Raptors last 11 after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 14-6 in Bucks last 20 when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game.

8* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED WEEK 10 TOTAL

The Boston College have the worst scoring defense in the ACC giving up 32.0 ppg and the over/under is 6-2 in their eight games on the season. Their defense was lit up in a 59-7 loss to Clemson last time out and the Syracuse Orange, despite their limitations, should be able to move the ball quite freely. 

As for when Boston College has the ball, it averages a healthy 31.1 points per game and has the 10th best ground game in the country led by elite running back in AJ Dillon. Syracuse has allowed 160.0 rushing yards per game so expect BC to have decent success moving the ball on the ground. 

10* play on OVER. 

SPURS @ WARRIORS FRIDAY NIGHT TOTAL

Scoring points could become an issue for the Golden State Warriors for the foreseeable future. With shooting guard Klay Thompson already out for what looks like the rest of the season, they'll now also have to do without star guard Stephen Curry who suffered a broken hand in Wednesday's 121-110 loss to Phoenix. 

The Spurs are coming off a 103-97 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers Thursday night and unlikely to push the tempo, and this dinged up Warriors team is unlikely to be able to take advantage of eventual heavy legs the visitors might have

Under is 15-6-1 in Spurs last 22 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400 and 7-2 in Warriors last 9 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* JAZZ @ KINGS NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

The Utah Jazz are limiting opponents to 40.8% shooting from the field on the season and have yet to allow more than 96 points in any of their games. 

As for the Sacramento Kings, they're averaging only 98.6 ppg and note that both these teams are in the bottom six in the NBA for offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions). 

Utah is as per usual one of the slowest teams in the league just barely breaking 100 possessions per game and the under is 5-0 in their first five games this season. 

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Detroit Pistons have struggled on the defensive end of the hardwood, but I just don't think the home team can take advantage with the Bulls coming into this contest on a three-game losing streak through which they've averaged 97.6 ppg. 

Detroit is likely to be without two starters in forward Blake Griffin (hamstring, knee) and guard Reggie Jackson (back), so it can hardly afford to make this a high-tempo game, particularly not with the Nets on deck tomorrow. 

Both teams are shooting under 40 percent from the field, so it stands to reason that we'll see a sluggish game with sloppy shooting.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* SPURS @ CLIPPERS TOTAL

The LA Clippers will be playing on no rest following a loss at Utah last night. I think their heavy legs could become an issue on defense, something that Spurs coach Gregg Popovich will be smart enough to exploit by urging his team to push the ball tempo to get open shots. 

The Spurs have averaged 119 ppg while going a perfect 3-0 on the season and the Clippers have had no trouble scoring, entering this contest with a 121.5 ppg average despite being held to 96 points by the Jazz last night. Note that star forward Kawhi Leonard was rested yesterday, and he'll surely be up for putting points on the board against his former team. 

Additionally, we can note that both teams rank near the top of the league for offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions). 

Over is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings and the last head-to-head matchup here at Staples Center saw a total of 233 points scored. 

10* play on OVER. 

TOP RATED 49ERS @ CARDINALS THURSDAY NIGHT *BEST BET*

Do not let the fact that the San Francisco 49ers put up 51 points against Carolina last week scare you. They had played four straight unders prior to that offensive explosion, and I think they'll let the defense pick up the slack here when playing on a short week at Arizona Cardinals Thursday night. 

Arizona and rookie QB Kyler Murray had put up impressive offensive numbers against weak defenses (Cincinnati, Atlanta, NY Giants) before getting exposed by New Orleans' elite defense in a 31-9 loss last week. The Niners lead the NFL in total defense and points allowed, so points will most likely be equally hard to come by for the home team in this one. 

Under is 9-3 in 49ers last 12 Thursday games. Under is 7-3 in 49ers last 10 games after scoring more than 30 points in their previous game. Under is 7-1 in Cardinals last 8 games after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game. Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

HEAT @ HAWKS TOTAL

The Miami Heat beat the Atlanta Hawks 112-97 with a total closing at 223 just a couple of days ago. The books have adjusted the total plenty for the second leg of this home-and-home set, but I still think it's set too high. 

The Hawks will have to do without Eastern Conference Player of the Week Trae Young (34 points and nine assists average on the season), a tough break for a team that has averaged just 105 ppg. 

The Heat have pushed the tempo in most of their games, but I don't think the Hawks will allow the Miami to dictate the pace in their own building. 

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NHL): MIKE'S TOP RATED NHL TOTAL

The Vancouver Canucks put an 8-2 beating on the LA Kings three weeks ago, and I think we'll see another high-scoring affair when the two teams clash at Staples Center Wednesday night. 

The Kings took a 5-1 loss to Chicago on Sunday and are giving up 4+ goals per game on the season. I don't think they'll allow the visiting Nucks to skate away with this game comfortably, but to stay in this contest they'll need to score. Note that Vancouver averaging a healthy 3.64 gpg, fifth in the NHL, and put seven in a win against Florida Monday night. 

10* play on OVER. 

BULLS @ CAVS TOTAL

The Chicago Bulls have played three straight unders since opening the season with a 251 point game at Charlotte. They've averaged only 91 ppg scored over their last two and I think another low-scoring contest is in the cards when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers Wednesday night. 

The Cavs took a 129-112 loss at Milwaukee last time out but had averaged fewer than 100 ppg through their first couple of games this season.

Both teams rank in the bottom third in the league for pace and offensive efficiency (the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions). While neither team is capable of playing shut down defense, I still think we have a strong case for the under. 

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA): MIKE'S TOP RATED TUESDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Dallas Mavericks have averaged 121 ppg while splitting a couple of high-scoring affairs against New Orleans and Portland, but I think points will be harder to come by here at Denver Tuesday night with the home team looking to slow down the tempo. 

The Nuggets are 2-0 to the under on the season, scoring 108 points in both games with an average of only 103.5 ppg allowed (and that despite Friday's matchup at Phoenix going to overtime). They were just outside of the top 10 for defensive efficiency (the number of points a team allows per 100 possessions) last season and it looks like Denver will be hard to beat on the defensive end of the hardwood this season as well. 

Under is 4-1 in Nuggets last 5 games playing on 0 days rest and 16-5 in their last 21 home games. Under is 4-1 in Mavericks last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings at Pepsi Center.

*Write up posted before the conclusion of Denver's matchup with the Kings at Sacramento Monday night. 

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

Both the Utah Jazz and the Phoenix Suns will play their third game in four nights (and fourth in six), but at least the Suns have the advantage of playing in their own building. The Suns are 2-1 SU (3-0 ATS) on the season and in the groove following a 130-122 upset against the Clippers. "It feels amazing, everybody chipped in," Suns forward Kelly Oubre Jr. told reporters. "We fought through adversity once again, but we're finding who we are and we're continuing to grow and that's the most beautiful thing about it."

The Jazz took a nine-point loss at LA Lakers on Friday but bounced right back with a massive beatdown of the Kings the next day. Still, I think they're at risk of underestimating the Suns and I like the home team to keep this close. 

Additionally, we can note that the under is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings overall and 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in Phoenix.

8* play on UNDER. 

CHARGERS @ BEARS

The Chicago Bears are coming off a couple of relatively high-scoring defeats against Oakland and New Orleans. They're desperate for a win now, and I think their defense will step it up a notch again here when hosting the slumping LA Chargers. 

The visitors have scored just a total of 50 points through three consecutive losses and they had played five straight unders prior to last week's 23-20 loss (42.5-point total) at Tennessee. The Chargers are a slow team that lets the clock run a fair amount of time between snaps and moving the ball won't be easy against this elite Chicago defense. 

That being said, the Chargers defense is actually pretty decent as well and ranks just behind the Bears with 333.3 total yards allowed per game. Chicago's offense is quite limited and has averaged only 18.7 ppg and I expect to see an ugly and slow, low-scoring affair at Soldier Field this Sunday.

8* play on UNDER.  

3-PACK

The Portland Trail Blazers took an 8-point loss to Denver in their season opener. C.J McCollum and Damian Lillard had an off-night and combined for just 15-for-39 shooting in the defeat, but I think they'll bounce back with a win here at Sacramento Friday night. 

The Kings didn't only suffer a setback to the woeful (or are they actually that bad?) Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, they also got Marvin Bagley III, De'Aaron Fox, and Buddy Hield banged up. 

The Blazers usually start their seasons strong and have a solid core of players. They're 17-8-2 ATS in their last 27 games following an ATS loss and should roll to a win here. 

Additionally, the under has hit in 12 of their last 18 meetings and I think that's a trend that will continue. 

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (MLB): MIKE'S TOP RATED WORLD SERIES GAME 3 TOTAL

The two teams have opened the World Series by combining for 24 runs through two Washington triumphs at Minute Maid Park, and that despite better pitching matchups than the one we'll see tonight. I expect the hitters will keep dominating this series and push the score over the posted total with ease. 

Astros' righty Zack Greinke (0-2, 6.43 ERA) has not had a good postseason and no one should trust Washington right-hander Anibal Sanchez (1-0, 0.71 ERA) to shut down a desperate Houston side. Both bullpens have proven vulnerable and unable to keep runners off the bases. 

Over is 4-0 in Nationals last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter. Over is 4-0 in Astros last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter. Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings in Washington.

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED REDSKINS @ VIKINGS TOTAL

I think we'll see a low-scoring affair when the Minnesota Vikings host the Washington Redskins Thursday night. 

The Vikes have been putting up impressive offensive numbers in recent weeks, but QB Kirk Cousins has a tendency to do worse in primetime games and this should be no exception playing on a short week. There will simply be no reason for Minnesota to run up the score against a hapless Redskins team so the main focus (apart from getting the W) should be to come out of this contest as healthy as possible. Expect Minnesota to take a healthy lead and then bleed the clock dry on every possession. 

Under is 9-4 in Vikings last 13 games overall and 5-1 in their 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Under is 4-0 in Redskins last 4 games overall.

10* play on UNDER. 

PATRIOTS @ JETS MONDAY NIGHT AFC EAST SHOWDOWN *TOP PLAY*

NY Jets QB Sam Darnold missed three games from mononucleosis but came back with one of the best games of his career when he led the team to major upset against Dallas last week. 

We can however note that Darnold threw for just 175 yards and was sacked four times when he faced the Bills elite defense in his only other start this season on September 9. The Pats D is right up there with Buffalo's ranking near the top of the league in several defensive categories and the Jets left Gilette Stadium without an offensive touchdown in a 30-14 loss a couple of weeks ago.

Under is 9-0 in Patriots last 9 road games vs. a team with a losing home record and 6-1 in the last 7 meetings and keep in mind that the Jets rank dead last in tempo taking almost 31 seconds per play. 

10* play on UNDER. 

SAINTS @ BEARS LATE AFTERNOON BOOKIE BLASTER

We're seeing a very low total for this matchup between the Chicago Bears and the New Orleans Saints Sunday afternoon, but for a very good reason. I think points will be extremely hard to come by for both teams. 

The Bears rank sixth in the nation for total defense while allowing just 13.8 ppg. They'll no doubt be ready for New Orleans here, coming off their bye week following a disappointing 24-21 loss to Oakland in London, England. 

The Bears hope to get quarterback Mitch Trubisky back after missing the last game because of a left shoulder injury, but he's still a limited quarterback and the team ranks near the bottom of the league with 266.0 yards of total offense per game. Saints' QB Teddy Bridgewater is quite effective running a dink and dunk offense, but he's not really capable of coming up with big plays which will spell disaster against a Chicago's defense that never gives an inch for free. 

Neither will the Saints who just held the Jags to six points and 226 yards of total offense at Jacksonville, and I'm happy to take the under here no matter the number.  

Additionally, note that both teams rank in the bottom five for pace with each side taking almost 30 seconds/play.

8* play on UNDER. 

EARLY SUNDAY AFTERNOON NO BRAINER TOTAL

The San Francisco 49ers are one of only two remaining undefeated teams in the NFL. They've allowed just a total of 10 points against Cleveland Indians and the LA Rams over their last two games, and each of their last three has gone under the total. Under is 4-1 in their five games this season and this should be another low-scoring contest.  

Here they'll face an offensively inept Washington Redskins team that had scored a total of just 10 points over their last two games before putting up 17 to just barely beat the hapless Miami Dolphins last week. I expect the Niners to take an early lead and then control the clock and keep the Skins offense off the field. 

8* play on UNDER. 

NFL 3-PACK

The Arizona Cardinals and the Atlanta Falcons combined for 67 points and helped me cash my NFL total of the week last week. The over is 3-1 in their last four games and I expect to see another high-scoring affair involving Arizona when it visits the NY Giants here in Week 7. 

The Giants have been held to fewer than 15 points in three of six games this season, but they've faced absolute elite defenses in those games. One can hardly blame a team for struggling to put points on the board against Buffalo, New England, and Minnesota, and they did score 32 at Tampa Bay in Week 3. 

Here they'll take shots on an Arizona defense that is among the worst in the league with 414 yards allowed per game, and the Giants are expected to get Saquon Barkley and Evan Engram, two of their most explosive offensive players, back in the lineup for this game. 

As for Arizona's offense, QB Kyler Murray is getting more and more comfortable and has led the team to back-to-back wins. Last time out Murray passed for 340 yards with three touchdowns and also added 32 yards on 11 carries on the ground.

8* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED CHIEFS @ BRONCOS TOTAL

I think the posted total is set way too high for this Thursday Night Football clash between the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs at Mile High. 

The usually so high-scoring Chiefs have averaged only 21.5 ppg during an 0-2 SU and ATS slide. MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes has completed just 55 percent of his passes during that stretch and is visibly bothered by a lingering ankle injury. To be fair, he is not getting much help from a banged up offensive line and the Chiefs ground game is virtually non-existent. 

As for the Broncos they're trending in the opposite direction, and almost solely because of a defense that has been excellent in back-to-back wins. Note that they recorded seven sacks with three interceptions in last week's 16-0 shutout triumph over Tennessee. The Broncos do not bring much to the table offensively though, and when they do move the ball it will mainly be on the ground which will take time off the clock. 

The under is 13-2 over the last three seasons in Denver games with a total between 42.5 and 49 points and 11-3 L14 when facing a division rival. 

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB): MIKE'S TOP RATED NLCS GAME 3 TOTAL

The St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Nationals combined for just six runs through the first two games of this series (both Nats victories), and I think it's safe to say that runs will come at a premium once again here at Nationals Park Monday night. 

Cards 23-year-old righty Jack Flaherty (1-1, 2.77 ERA) was outstanding following the All Star break. He posted a sub-1 ERA in both August and September and was solid in the NLDS against the Braves with four runs allowed and 16 Ks over 13 innings of work. As for Nats starter Stephen Strasburg (2-0, 2.40 ERA), the veteran righty has allowed only four runs with 21 Ks over 15 innings of work in the playoffs this year and he held St. Louis to three runs with 15 Ks over 11-plus frames during the regular season. 

Under is 6-2 in Nationals last 8 overall. Under is 16-6 in Cardinals last 22 road games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 13-4-2 in Flaherty's last 19 starts overall. Under is 5-2-1 in Strasburg's last 8 starts overall.

10* play on UNDER. 

STEELERS @ CHARGERS SUNDAY NIGHT SHOWDOWN

The Pittsburgh Steelers visit the LA Chargers for a Sunday Night Showdown here in Week 6, and if you like action-packed football you might want to look away. 

Pittsburgh is down to its third-string quarterback after injuries to Big Ben and Mason Rudolph. Undrafted rookie Devlin Hodges will make his first start under center, and I don't expect much offensive production from him. The Steelers might have to try and move the chains on the ground, but this is a team that has averaged a pathetic 67.0 rushing yards per game (29th in the NFL) on the season. The home team will almost certainly stack the line of scrimmage and dare the inexperienced Steelers QB to make plays. 

The Steelers D knows it will have to step up big time to give the team a chance to win here, and the Chargers have issues with their offensive line. LA quarterback Philip Rivers is coming off one of the worst games of his career as he was limited to 32-of-48 passing for 211 yards and a pair of interceptions against the Broncos last week. 

Under is 4-0 in Chargers last 4 games overall and 14-6 in their last 20 games in Week 6. Under is 6-0 in Steelers last 6 games in Week 6 and 37-15 in their last 52 road games. 

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S MAJOR WAGER TOTAL

The Atlanta Falcons have 99 problems, but scoring points ain't one. You would think that putting 32 points on the board would be enough to a W, but that was not the case for the Falcons as they took a 53-32 loss at Houston last week. 

Only KC's Patrick Mahomes has more passing yards than Atlanta QB Matt Ryan, and here Ryan will get to take shots against an Arizona defense that ranks in the bottom third against the pass and in the bottom five for total defense. The Falcons D is only marginally better and it allowed Houston QB Deshaun Watson to complete 28-of-33 passes for 426 yards and five touchdown passes in Week 5. 

Arizona will enter this contest feeling pretty good about themselves after accumulating 514 yards of offense in a 26-23 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Rookie QB Kyler Murray ran for a career-high 93 yards and completed 20-of-32 passes for 253 yards without an interception.  

Over is 8-3 in Falcons last 11 games after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game. Over is 14-6-1 in Falcons last 21 vs. a team with a losing record. Over is 4-1 in Cardinals last 5 games after accumulating more than 350 total yards in their previous game.

It's a big number, but I expect both teams to score fast and easy until the very last possession. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a dominant beatdown of the NY Giants and QB Kirk Cousins had his best game of the season completing 22-of-27 passes for 306 yards and two touchdowns. 

Here they'll face a Philadelphia team that didn't look particularly good in its 31-6 win over the Jets last week. The scoreline is somewhat deceiving as they had just 265 yards of total offense but managed to take advantage of timely turnovers. Their defense was dominant with 10 sacks and two defensive touchdowns, but again, it was against the Jets, arguably one of the worst teams in the league. Philly's secondary is still banged up and Cousins should be able to take advantage. 

As for Minnesota's defense, it's one of the best in the league and the Eagles are not clicking on the offensive side of the ball. All things considered, I like Minnesota to win and cover in a low-scoring contest. 

8* play on UNDER

NATIONALS @ CARDINALS NLCS GAME 2 *TOP PLAY*

The St. Louis Cardinals were shut out and were no-hit until the seventh inning in the Washington Nationals 2-0 win in the opener of this NLCS Friday night. I expect another low-scoring contest in Game 2. 

Nats righty Max Scherzer (1-0, 2.77 ERA) held the Dodgers to one run and four hits over seven innings in the NLDS and owns a 3.31 ERA in 11 career meetings with the Cards. As for St. Louis starter Adam Wainwright (0-0, 0.00 ERA), the veteran right-hander held Atlanta to four hits over 7 2/3 shutout innings in their NLDS series and he has a 1.35 ERA versus Washington this season. 

Under is 5-1-1 in Scherzer's last 7 road starts. Under is 18-7-1 in Wainwright's last 26 starts vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 8-3 in Cardinals last 11 playoff home games. Under is 6-0-1 in the last 7 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED 10 UNIT TOTAL

The Iowa State Cyclones are coming off a dominant 49-24 win over TCU. They had no trouble to move the ball against an elite Horned Frogs defense, and I think they'll pile up the points against West Virginia.

The Mountaineers meanwhile took a 41-32 loss against Texas last week but it would've been even closer if quarterback Austin Kendall didn't throw four interceptions. Still, Kendall finished with 367 passing yards and also threw three touchdown passes, and their offense helped the Mountaineers beat NC State 44-27 as a seven-point dog on September 14. 

All of the Mountaineers' last four games have gone over the total, and while I'm not confident they'll cover the spread I think they'll put a fair amount of points on the board. 

Over is 5-1 in Mountaineers last 6 home games. Over is 9-3 in Mountaineers last 12 games following a straight-up loss.

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NHL): MIKE'S TOP RATED ISLANDERS @ CANES TOTAL

The Carolina Hurricanes are a perfect 4-0-0 on the season, and while they've mostly been involved in high-scoring games I think that will not be the case here. 

The New York Islanders are 1-2-0 on the season. They've not been too shabby defensively with eight goals allowed in three games, but producing goals at the other end of the ice has been an issue. They've mustered only seven on the season, with four of those goals coming against the leaky Winnipeg Jets. Note that Canes netminder Petr Mrazek posted a 2.04 GAA in two meetings with the Islanders last year. 

Under is 16-6 in Hurricanes last 22 games as a home favorite of -151 to -200 and 6-0-2 in Islanders last 8 games as an underdog of +151 to +200.

10* play on UNDER. 

CARDINALS @ BRAVES NLDS GAME 5 TOTAL *TOP PLAY*

The Atlanta Braves host the St. Louis Cardinals for the finale of their NLDS Wednesday. The pitching matchup is the same as in Game 2, a contest the Braves won 3-0, and I predict another low-scoring encounter. 

Cards righty Jack Flaherty (11-8, 2.75 ERA) had an epic second half of the season during which he went 7-2 with a minuscule 0.91 ERA. Braves righty Mike Foltynewicz (8-6, 4.54 ERA) outdueled Flaherty in Game 2 with seven shutout innings and he had a 1.73 ERA over his last seven regular-season starts.

Under is 13-3-2 in Flaherty's last 18 starts overall. Under is 15-7-1 in Braves last 23 games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 4-1-1 in Foltynewicz's last 6 starts overall. Under is 16-5 in Cardinals last 21 road games vs. a right-handed starter.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (MLB): MIKE'S TOP RATED MONDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Minnesota Twins and the New York Yankees have played high-scoring contests when facing each other all season long, and the playoffs have been no exception. I expect runs to come fast and easy once again here in Game 3 of their ALDS Monday night. 

Yankees righty Luis Severino (1-1, 1.50 ERA) has pitched just 12 innings this year after missing most of it due to shoulder and lat injuries. He has up a pair of runs on one hit and four walks in three innings of a 9-4 loss at Texas on September 28 and Severino has a 4.15 ERA in two career starts against the Twins.

Minnesota right-hander Jake Odorizzi (15-7, 3.51 ERA) owns a 4.71 ERA in 18 career outings (17 starts) against the Yankees and he was tagged for nine runs on 10 hits in just four innings when he took on the Bronx Bombers here at Target Field back in July. This is a do-or-die spot for the Twins as they face elimination, and I think they'll bring the bats (as per usual). 

Over is 14-3 in the last 17 meetings, 16-5 in Severino's last 21 starts overall and 7-1-2 in Twins last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED TOTAL *MAJOR WAGER ALERT*

The Minnesota Vikings didn't get on the scoreboard until the middle of the fourth quarter in last week's 16-6 loss to the Chicago Bears. 

Over/under is 29-41-4 in games where a team scored seven or fewer points last time out dating back to the start of the 2017 season, and I think this has all the signs of a low-scoring affair. 

The Vikes have struggled to protect QB Kirk Cousins who was sacked six times against the Bears and running back Dalvin Cook was completely shut down, finishing with just 35 yards on 14 carries. The Giants defense is of course not nearly as good as Chicago's, but it has been more vulnerable through the air which is not something Minnesota can exploit effectively. 

On the defensive side of the ball, Minnesota has been as solid as ever. It held Chicago to 269 yards of total offense and ranks sixth in the NFL with 312.8 yards allowed per game despite facing what I consider good offenses in three of its four games. The Vikings should be able to shut down Giants team playing without its star running back and a rookie QB (Daniel Jones) who threw two interceptions in a 24-3 win over Washington last week.

Under is 5-0 in Vikings last 5 road games. Under is 15-7 in Giants last 22 home games.

10* play on UNDER. 

SUNDAY AFTERNOON PATRIOTS @ REDSKINS TOTAL

The New England Patriots lead the NFL in most defensive categories and have allowed an average of just 243 yards and 6.8 ppg. Three of their first four games of the season have gone under the total, the exception a 30-14 win over the Jets that went over the total by a single point. 

Here the Patriots will face a Washington Redskins team that was held to a field goal and fewer than 180 yards of total offense in a loss to the New York Giants last week. 

This all boils down to how many points Bill Belichick and Tom Brady feel the need to put on the board, and my assumption is that they'll be happy with a pedestrian win and keep everyone healthy. The Pats might reach 30 points, but I highly doubt Washington will put up more than 10. 

Under is 8-0 in Patriots last 8 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.

8* play on UNDER. 

BILLS @ TITANS NFL NO BRAINER

Two of the better defenses in the league will clash at Nissan Stadium Sunday afternoon with Buffalo ranking fifth allowing 15.8 ppg and Tennessee fourth allowing 15.5 ppg. 

The Bills held the mighty Patriots to just 16 points (still lost the game) last time out while the Titans held the Falcons high-powered offense in check in a 24-10 win in Atlanta last week. Under is 5-1 in Titans last 6 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game and 4-0 in Bills last 4 games overall.

Neither defense has allowed an opponent to score more than 20 points in a game this season, which would have to happen for this game to go over the total. I see absolutely no reason to take a contrarian approach to the total for this contest. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MAN UNITED @ NEWCASTLE PREMIER LEAGUE PUNISHER

Manchester United did not even manage to get a shot on goal in their midweek 0-0 draw with AZ in the Champions League. Here they'll face a Newcastle team that will clamp down on defense to ensure they do not repeat the same mistakes as in last week's 5-0 loss at Leicester. Their three Premier League home games during the 2019/2020 season have seen a total of just three goals, and we can note that the visitors will be without playmakers Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial with respective ankle and thigh problems.

8* play on UNDER. 

SATURDAY ALDS TWINS @ YANKEES TOTAL *TOP PLAY*

We saw a total of 14 runs scored in the opener of this ALDS, and that was with a better pitching matchup than Randy Dobnak vs. Masahiro Tanaka who will take the mound for Game 2. 

On the surface Minnesota righty Dobnak (2-1, 1.59 ERA) has a great ERA, but that mostly boils down to the fact that he has just 28 1/3 big league innings under his belt. As for Yankees righty Tanaka (11-9, 4.45 ERA), while he certainly has more experience, note his mediocre 4.32 ERA in five starts last month. 

Both the Yankees and Twins topped 300 homers during the regular season, and both teams ability to hit the long ball will certainly help to push the score over the total. 

Over is 6-2 in Yankees last 8 playoff home games and 13-3 in the last 16 meetings with the Twins (8-2 in the last 10 meetings in the Bronx). 

10* play on OVER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED SATURDAY AFTERNOON TOTAL

The Penn State Nittany Lions have had no trouble to put points on the board in three of four games on the season, the exception a low-scoring 17-10 win over Pittsburgh. 

They average 50 ppg and scored 59 while racking up 622 yards of total offense in a shut out win at Maryland last time out and I think we'll see Penn State move the ball fast and easy here against a Purdue team that has allowed an average of 32.5 ppg on the season. 

Last time out, the Boilermakers gave up 488 yards of total offense in a 38-31 home loss to Minnesota and over is 7-1 in their last 8 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game. 

Purdue has scored 30+ points in three of its four games and I think it'll contribute enough to push the score over the total. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUPER EARLY TULANE @ ARMY TOTAL

I think points will be hard to come by for both the Army Black Knights and the Tulane Green Wave in this matchup. 

Army leads FBS in rushing attempts per game, and Tulane also prefers to keep the ball on the ground so every possession will take a lot of time off the clock. Army ranks 19th for team total defense giving up 288 yards per game, and Tulane ranks 44th surrendering a respectable 340 ypg.

Additionally, we can note that both teams are coming off their bye week, so they've had plenty of time to get ready for each other. Under is 22-5 in Black Knights last 27 games following a bye week and 17-4 in their last 21 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER): MIKE'S EARLY PREMIER LEAGUE TOTAL

To say that Tottenham are vulnerable defensively would be an understatement up seven goals to Bayern Munich in their Champions League matchup midweek. 

They have allowed nine goals in seven Premier League games on the season, and while the home team Brighton usually comes out with a cautious gameplan, it must smell blood and be looking to put on a show in front of the home town crowd at Amex Stadium here. 

Brighton are banged up though, and for all of Tottenham's issues, scoring goals is not one of them. They have world class attackers like Harry Kane, Heung-Min Son and Christian Eriksen who all can create goals out of nothing.

I think we'll see a 2-1 or 3-1 win for the visitors, with the score going over the total.

10* play on OVER. 

MLB PLAYOFFS TOTAL OF THE YEAR 2019

I absolutely love the line we get on the total here in the opener of their ALDS against the New York Yankees, and I expect the final score to fly over the posted total with ease. 

Minnesota righty Jose Berrios (14-8, 3.68 ERA) will make his first postseason start after posting a 4.31 ERA in five September starts. Berrios is 7-4 with a 3.84 ERA in 17 road starts on the season but has had his struggles with the Yankees overall, and particularly in the Bronx where he has a 9.82 ERA in two starts. 

Southpaw James Paxton (15-6, 3.82 ERA) will also be making his postseason debut for the Yankees. He exited his last start after the first inning in Texas on Sept. 27 due to soreness in his left glute muscle, but only after allowing two runs on three hits. 

Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings and the two teams combined for 20 home runs and 57 runs in a three-game series in Minnesota back in July. 

10* play on OVER. 

THURSDAY NIGHT RAMS @ SEAHAWKS TOTAL *TOP PLAY*'

We should see an angry and motivated Los Angeles Rams team heading to Seattle looking to bounce back from a 55-40 home loss to Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The reigning NFC champions are as good as anyone on the offensive side of the ball but simply can't trust their defense to win games.

Rams' third-year quarterback Jared Goff threw for 517 yards with two touchdown passes and three picks in that contest and they're averaging a healthy 29.2 ppg on the season. Seattle has an elite rushing defense, but its secondary is mediocre at best. The Seahawks allowed Bengals QB Andy Dalton to pass for 418 yards plus a pair of scores in the opening game of the season. Since then they've faced two teams with backup QBs and one team with a rookie under center. 

Offensively, the Seahawks just put up 20 points in the first half alone against Arizona and I think the two teams will combine for enough points to push the final score over the total. As the clincher, we can note that both matchups last season saw 60+ points scored!

10* play on OVER. 

BREWERS @ NATIONALS NL WILD CARD *MAJOR WAGER*

The Washington Nationals will host the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Wild Card Tuesday night. I think it's safe to assume that runs will come at a premium. 

Washington has had bullpen issues most of the season, but their starters are as solid as they come (second-best ERA in baseball). In a one-and-done game like this, we can most likely expect to see Stephen Strasburg and Patrick Corbin come out of the pen to relieve starter Max Scherzer (11-7, 2.92 ERA). As for the Brewers, they'll hand the ball to Brandon Woodruff (11-3, 3.62 ERA) who has allowed just seven runs over his last six outings. He'll be well rested after making just two abbreviated starts in September and last pitched on September 22. 

Under is 23-11-2 in Brewers last 36 overall. Under is 6-2 in Woodruff's last 8 starts with 8 or more days of rest.

10* play on UNDER. 

MONDAY NIGHT BENGALS @ STEELERS TOTAL

I like the Cincinnati Bengals as an underdog in a low-scoring game here at division rival Pittsburgh Monday night. 

While Cincy has struggled to establish its run game, note that running back Joe Mixon showed some life against Buffalo's elite defense last week, and here he'll face a Pittsburgh team that has allowed 139.3 rushing yards per game. Bengals QB Andy Dalton is no world-beater, but he has a respectable 979 passing yards to his name this season and I still trust him over Pittsburgh's second-year quarterback Mason Rudolph who has thrown for just 286 yards over his first two starts. 

The Steelers have won eight straight in the series, but the Bengals must like their chances of ending that streak tonight. We can also note that the Bengals are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 road games and they've kept it close at Seattle and Buffalo. First to 20 points should win this one, and I'm happy to take the points on the visitors. 

Under is 5-1-2 in Bengals last 8 games overall. Under is 5-2 in Steelers last 7 games overall.

8* play on UNDER.

TOP RATED BRAVES @ METS TOTAL

I think the scorekeepers will have a quiet afternoon at Citi Field here on the last day of the regular season. 

Mets righty Noah Syndergaard (10-8, 4.30 ERA) will be looking to close out the year with a solid start after getting roughed up in recent outings while Atlanta right-hander Mike Soroka (13-4, 2.60 ERA) need to stay sharp for the postseason. Soroka has limited the Mets to five runs on 13 hits in 12 1/3 innings on the season and we should expect another strong outing here.

Under is 13-4-1 in Braves last 18 games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 9-3-1 in Mets last 13 games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 5-1 in Soroka's last 6 road starts vs. a team with a winning record.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (NFL): MIKE'S TOP RATED SUNDAY AFTERNOON TOTAL

This is a showdown between two teams that have struggled on the defensive end through the first three games of the season. Both sides are allowing an average of 31.3 ppg and 400+ yards of total offense. The Redskins have seen all three contests fly over the total, and I think this will turn into a shootout. 

The Giants are 1-2 on the season following a thrilling come-from-behind 32-31 win over Tampa Bay. Rookie quarterback Daniel Jones completed 65 percent of his passes for 336 yards and two touchdowns versus zero interceptions in his first career start. Make no mistake, this is a team that can move the ball and it ranks seventh in the NFL for total offense. 

Sure, the injury to Giants' running back Saquon Barkley is not ideal, but I don't think they'll have any trouble to move the chains against a weak Redskins secondary. 

The Giants have the worst pass defense in the league with 332.3 passing yards allowed per game and they allowed Bucs and they let a mediocre QB like Jameis Winston to throw for 380 yards. While Washington QB Case Keenum looked terrible against the Bears Monday night, keep in mind that he was up against one of the best defenses in the league. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUPER EARLY NFL TOTAL NO BRAINER 

After backing the under in every New England Patriots' game this season (and cashing 2/3), it should not come as a surprise to see that I expect a defensive battle when they visit the Buffalo Bills Sunday afternoon. 

Pats QB Tom Brady has maneuvered the team up and down the field pretty much at will through the first three games of the season, but they've played a soft schedule (Pittsburgh, Miami, New York Jets) and has not faced a defense even near the quality of Buffalo's yet. The home town crowd will be loud and make the play calling for the visitors very difficult, and we can also note that Julian Edelman is considered day-to-day with a rib injury. As for the Patriots defense, it's simply elite and has yet to allow an offensive touchdown this season.

Under is 4-1 in Patriots last 5 games in September. Under is 5-0 in Bills last 5 games in September. Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NCAAF): MIKE'S TOP RATED SATURDAY NIGHT TOTAL

The Washington State Cougars gave up 67 points and 657 yards of total offense in a loss to the UCLA Bruins last week. On a more positive note, they did also put up 63 points and QB Anthony Gordon had a huge game with 570 yards passing yards and nine touchdown passes. 

Utah's elite run defense is among the best in the nation, but the Cougars won't even try to run the ball and Utah gave up 351 passing yards against USC Trojans last week.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Utes will have quarterback Tyler Huntley and running back Zack Mose likely sidelined due to injuries. They do however have good depth in the backfield and I think they'll have a gameplan in place how to exploit this far from elite Cougars defense. 

Over is 5-1 in Utes last 6 home games. Over is 8-2 in Cougars last 10 road games.

10* play on OVER. 

LATE NIGHT ASTROS @ ANGELS TOTAL

The Houston Astros and the Los Angeles Angels used a combined 18 pitchers in yesterday's 12 inning affair. With a pair of rookie starters and tired arms on both sides, I would not be surprised to see runs dripping in both early and late in this contest. 

Angels left-hander Patrick Sandoval (0-3, 5.25 ERA) rarely goes deep into the games and has not pitched more than 61 pitches in any of his last four starts. He gave up three runs in three innings of an 8-4 Halos win at Houston last week. As for Houston starter Jose Urquidy (1-1, 4.63 ERA), the 24-year-old right-hander has made just eight appearances (six starts) on the season. Two of those outings were against the Angels with Urquidy getting tagged with six runs on 12 hits over 5 1/3 frames. 

Over is 9-2-1 in Angels last 12 Friday games. The over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings. 

8* play on OVER.