My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on IUPUI (7:00 EST).

The 17-11 Oakland Golden Grizzlies are at IUPUI to take on the 9-17 Jaguars on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Oakland comes in off an 82-66 road win over Cleveland State on Friday night, while IUPUI enters off a 76-71 OT road victory over Milwaukee in its latest action. 

Note that this is an in-season revenge game for the Jaguars after they fell 82-74 at Oakland earlier this month. 

The Golden Grizzlies average 80.2 PPG and they concede 77.8. Jalen Hayes was a standout in the latest victory for Oakland with 24 points, while leading scorer Kendrick Nunn added 17. 

The Jaguars average 69.1 PPG and they concede 73.8. The Jags looked sharp defensively against Milwaukee on Friday, holding it to 41 percent shooting, while connecting on 45 percent themselves. 

IUPUI has won two of its last three. It also plays with revenge. Oakland scored the big road win over Cleveland State, but asking the Grizzlies to cover back-to-back sizeable spreads away from friendly confines is asking too much in my opinion.

While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to come right down to the wire.

Play on the revenge-minded Jaguars.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on California (8:00 EST).

Stanford dropped its second straight, most recently a listless 64-56 road setback to Colorado on Sunday. 

The Golden Bears can empathize as they’ve lost two in a row as well, most recently a humbling 77-43 setback on the road in Utah last Saturday. 

But if recent history is any precedence then the home side has to be liking it chances tonight because the Golden Bears have taken three of the last four meetings, including a 77-74 road victory in the first matchup of the season back on December 30th.

The Cardinal average 74.7 PPG and they concede 74.2. Dorian Pickens was a standout in the losing cause to the Buffs with 18 points.

Cal averages 69.3 PPG and it concedes 78.2. Darius McNeill had ten points in the loss to the Utes.

I think it’s important to note though that Stanford is just 1-4 ATS in its last five when playing with five or six days rest, while Cal is 3-1 ATS in its last four when playing with seven or more days of rest.

I’m not trying to convince you that the Golden Bears are a good team which has fallen on some rotten luck this season, as that’s not the case. Cal is a poor team which clearly has issues on both ends of the floor. 

However, the Cardinal also have their problems as well. Game-to-game consistency is one. Their performance on the road is another (just 2-5 thus far.) 

Cal did a good job in the first matchup this season and I think the hungry home side will at the very least, keep Round 2 just as competitive. Grab the points, play on the Golden Bears.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Temple (4:00 EST).

The 20-5 Houston Cougars are at Temple to take on the 15-11 Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Houston enters off four straight wins, while Temple’s five game win streak came to an end in a loss at Wichita State on Thursday. 

But after the upset over the Bearcats, I expect a predictable letdown here for the Cougars. Rob Gray led the way in that one with 17.5 points and 4.3 assists. 

Temple will look to take advantage of a complacent Houston and to avenge a 76-73 road defeat to the Cougars in December. 

Despite the loss to Wichita State, Temple’s offense has been sharp of late, averaging 83 points during its recent 5-1 run. Quinton Rose has averaged 14.9 points during the win skein and he’s now posted double-figures in six straight outings. Also note that the Owls are shooting a blistering 42.7 percent from range over their last six games. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Houston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while Temple is 5-1 ATS in its last six home games against teams with winning road records.

I like Temple to bounce back from its latest defeat and to find a way to avenge the earlier loss to the Cougars.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-Club Play is on Hawaii (10:30 EST).

The 14-10 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors are at UC Riverside to take on the 7-18 Highlanders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Note that this is a revenge game for the Rainbow Warriors, who fell 64-60 to the Highlanders on February 7th. 

We don’t have to question the motivation levels of the visitors today as they come into this one having lost five of their last six. Since posting a miserable ten-game losing streak, UC Riverside has won two of three. 

Note that the Warriors average 71.4 PPG, while the Highlanders put up 65 PPG. Michael Thomas leads Hawaii with 13.7 points and 6.1 boards per game, while UC Riverside is led by Dikymbe Martin with 13.3 points and 3.7 boards per contest.

Hawaii comes in with momentum after beating UC Irvine 62-61 on Thursday, led by 13 points and six boards from Gibson Johnson. Drew Buggs would go on to add eight points and six boards.

UC Riverside also comes in off a victory, getting the better of CS Northridge 69-62 on Wednesday. Chance Murray led the way in that one with 14 points, ten boards and five assists. 

I’ll point out though that the Warriors are 4-1 ATS in their last five in trying to revenge an in-season loss to an opponent in which they were held to 60 points or less, while the Highlanders are just 2-4 ATS in their last six after holding their previous opponent to 62 points or less. 

Hawaii plays with revenge and I think it has the matchup advantage here, as Thomas comes in on top form. Play on the Rainbow Warriors.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on UCLA (10:15 EST).

UCLA is 9-5 in Pac 12 play and it’s tied with USC for second place in the conference. Oregon is 7-6 in league action and is tied with three other schools for fourth place.

Note that this is an in-season revenge game for the Bruins after the Ducks took the first meeting 94-91 at home back on January 20th.

The Ducks average 78.5 PPG and they concede 70.3. Oregon fell at USC 72-70 on Thursday and I think it has a classic letdown here as well. MiKyle McIntosh was a bright spot in the losing cause with 23 points, while Payton Pritchard would go on to contribute 17 points and 14 assists. 

UCLA averages 82.4 PPG and it concedes 75.9. The Bruins most recently got the better of Oregon State 75-68 this past weekend, getting 17 points and ten assists from Aaron Holiday. UCLA struggled from the floor, but made up for it by out rebounding the Beavers by 14.

Oregon has been consistently inconsistent this season and it comes in off the crushing road defeat on Thursday. UCLA got back into the winners circle and it plays with revenge.

I look for the Bruins’ offense to get untracked against the Ducks. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on North Carolina (8:15 EST).

UNC is 9-5 in ACC action, sitting just a 0.5 game back of Duke and Clemson for second place. Louisville is 8-5 in league action and has won two straight despite being without the services of top scorer Deng Adel. 

Note that when these teams played last year it was UNC that scored the convincing 74-63 home victory. 

The Tar Heels most recently beat Notre Dame 83-66 on Monday. Joel Berry II led the way with 21 points, while Theo Pinson added 16 points, ten boards and five assists. 

UNC would go on to shoot 53.3 percent from the floor and go 6 of 16 from range. It also out rebounded the Irish by 13 and held ND to just 37.9 percent from the floor. Luke Maye leads the nightly charge with 18.3 points and 10.4 boards per game. 

The Cardinals smashed the lowly Pitt Panthers 94-60 on the road on Sunday, shooting 63 percent and going 10 of 19 from range. Quentin Snider is the teams second-leading scorer with 12.1 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that UNC is 5-1 ATS in its last six following a SU victory, while the underdog is 0-4 ATS in the last four in this series. 

Beating Pittsburgh is one thing, but North Carolina presents an entirely different challenge tonight. The Tar Heels have quality wins over Duke and NC State on the road already this year and I think they’ll find a way to get the job done here as well.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on Washington (8:00 EST).

Colorado comes in off an upset 73-69 setback on the road to Washington State in its latest action and suffice it to say, I believe the Buffs are going to have another letdown here as well.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Huskies have to be loving their chances today because when these teams met on January 20th it was Washington which scored the convincing 72-62 victory. 

With upcoming home games against USC and UCLA respectively next week, I think that Colorado gets caught looking ahead here.

The Huskies though come in desperate after three straight losses, most recently falling 70-58 to Utah. And with tough upcoming road games at Stanford and Cal, tonight’s contest takes on added importance for the home side.

Additionally I’ll point out that Colorado is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 70 points or less in its previous contest while also suffering a loss, while Washington is 4-2 ATS in its last six after three or more consecutive SU losses.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Huskies.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on North Carolina State (4:00 EST).

The 17-9 NC State Wolfpack are at Wake Forest to take on the 10-16 Demon Deacons and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the high-scoring visitors to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then the Wolfpack have to be loving their chances this afternoon, because when these teams met back in mid January, it was NC State which pulled away for the 72-63 home win. 

NC State comes in with momentum as well after downing Syracuse on the road 74-70 last Wednesday. Wake Forest also comes in off a victory, getting the better of Georgia Tech 79-62. 

Note that the Wolfpack average 80.7 PPG and they concede 74. In the victory over the Orange NC State shot 55.1 percent. Allerik Freeman averages a team leading 14.2 points, four boards and 2.5 assists per game.

Wake Forest averages 74.4 PPG and it concedes 74.8. The Demon Deacons shot 49.2 percent from the floor and 52.9 percent from range in the victory over Georgia Tech. Bryant Crawford leads the nightly charge with 16.5 points, 2.8 boards and 5.1 assists per night. 

The victory over the Yellow Jackets is one thing, but slowing down NC State will be quite another. This is simply a bad matchup for Wake Forest and I foresee a similar final outcome as what we saw in the first matchup between the schools this season. 

Grab the points, play on the Wolfpack.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Memphis (3:00 EST).

Memphis broke a three-game slide with a 70-67 win over SMU on the road on Wednesday and suffice it to say, I expect the team to carry that momentum over here.

Tulane enters on the other of the spectrum, having lost four straight after a crushing 82-80 setback at home to East Carolina on Wednesday. In my opinion, all signs point to another letdown here.

And if recent history is any precedence then the visitors have to be loving their chances today, because when these teams met on January 9th, it was the Tigers which pulled away for the 96-89 home win.

Memphis averages 70 PPG and it concedes 70.7. Mike Parks Jr. had 17 points to lead the Tigers in the win over SMU. Jeremiah Martin normally leads the nightly charge this year though with an average of 19.2 points, 4.4 boards and 3.9 assists per game. 

Tulane averages 74.6 PPG and it concedes 73.9. Cameron Reynolds was a bright spot in the loss to East Carolina with 23 points. Melvin Frazier leads the Green Wave with 15.9 points and 5.3 boards per night.

Sure the Green Wave are hungry, but the team lacks any sort of cohesion whatsoever right now. Look for Memphis to take advantage and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the afternoon.

Good luck…Larry

The third 9* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Iowa (2:00 EST).

Indiana looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning its third straight, most recently a 78-68 victory over Illinois at home on Wednesday.

Conversely it’s going to be all hands on deck for Iowa after dropping its fourth straight, most recently a 74-59 setback at No. 22 Michigan on Wednesday. 

Note that this is a revenge game as well as Indiana has taken two straight in the series, including a 77-64 victory in the first matchup this year back on December 4th. 

Indiana comes into this one averaging 71.9 PPG, while conceding 69.4. Juwan Morgan leads the team with 16.8 points and 7.4 boards per game. Robert Johnson had 14 points in the Hoosiers most recent victory.

Iowa averages 79.4 PPG and it concedes 78.3. Luke Garza was a bright spot in the loss to Michigan, posting 22 points in the setback.

Indiana is looking up at Nebraska and is at the Huskers early next week. Clearly it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught looking ahead to that one. Iowa is only ahead of Illinois in the standings, but it won’t be going down without a fight today.

This sets up as a trap for the Hoosiers and the desperate Hawkeyes take advantage.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Texas (12:00 EST).

The 15-11 Texas Longhorns are at Oklahoma to take on the 16-9 Sooners and while I’m not going to call for the outright upset, I do believe that this one will come down to whichever team has its hands on the ball last.

Texas comes in off a 74-73 OT setback to Baylor, while Oklahoma fell 88-78 to Texas Tech on Tuesday, the Sooners fourth straight setback. 

If recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances today because when these teams met last month in Texas, it was the Sooners which posted the 79-74 victory.

The Longhorns average 72.4 PPG and they concede 68. Mohamed Bamba was a bright spot in the latest setback to the Bears with 16 points and 16 boards. 

Oklahoma averages 88.4 PPG, but the Sooners continue to struggle on the defensive end, conceding 82.2 (ranked 338th in the country.) Trae Young had 19 points in his team’s latest setback, but note that he was 0 for 9 from range. 

Oklahoma is desperate for a victory, but so too are the Longhorns. Young is an amazing talent and he’s put up some ridiculous numbers, but fatigue could be a factor now. The Longhorns have the superior defense and they’ve already beaten this team this season.

Grab the points, play on Texas.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Georgia Tech (12:00 EST).

The 18-8 Virginia Tech Hokies are at Georgia Tech to take on the 11-15 Yellow Jackets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

We don’t have to question Georgia Tech’s motivation levels today as it comes in having lost four straight. Most recently the Yellow Jackets were smashed 79-62 by Wake Forest on Wednesday. 

But here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against as VT comes to town dejected after getting thrashed 74-52 at Duke. Note that this also sets up as a revenge game for the home side after it fell 62-61 in the lone meeting last year.

VT averages 82.5 PPG and it concedes 73.2. That offense looked pretty average against the Blue Devils though, hitting 42.9 percent from the floor. Justin Bibbs was a bright spot with 15 points. 

Georgia Tech averages 66.5 PPG and it concedes just 66.8. The Yellow Jackets offense looked good in the loss to the Demon Deacons by hitting 51 percent from the floor. 

The Hokies had a major letdown after beating No. 1 Virginia and I think they’re going to suffer another “hangover” here as well. 

Georgia Tech is at Virginia next week, putting added importance onto tonight’s contest.

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Detroit (7:00 EST).

The 7-12 Detroit Mercy Titans are at Youngstown State to take on the 8-20 Penguins on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visiting side.

Detroit enters off a hard-fought 75-72 road loss at Cleveland State, while Youngstown State comes in off a rare victory, edging Oakland 75-73.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Titans have to be loving their chances tonight, because when these teams met earlier in the season, it was Detroit that scored the 93-91 home victory.

Detroit averages 78.1 PPG and it concedes 84.9. Kameron Chatman had 14 points, but the guard has still reached 20 points in four of his last seven games. Roschon Prince was a standout though in the losing cause with 22 points.

The Penguins average 75.4 PPG and they concede 82.6. After two straight victories, regression is imminent in my opinion. Cameron Morse had 23 points in the upset over the Golden Grizzlies.

These teams played to a one-possession outcome in their first matchup together and all signs once again point to another “nail-biter.”

In a contest which I envision being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

(2018 MLB REMINDER: After more than 30 years as a professional handicapper, Larry has finished among the “World’s best” in every major North American sport several times. Major League Baseball has been no exception. In fact, over the last three years Ness is ranked as the No. 1 MLB handicapper in the entire World! Note that Larry has banked $35,083 in profits over the last three regular seasons combined (know anyone that’s done better?!) 2017 saw Larry post over +$10,000 units in the regular season and then he’d also go on to go a spectacular 18-8-1 +$8,530 in the playoffs, for a total of $18,538! And now 2018 has the potential to be the BIGGEST season of them all!)

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Pacific (10:00 EST).

San Diego enters this one with a 7-7 record in conference action. 

Pacific on the other hand has an 8-6 record against WCC teams this year, as head coach Damon Stoudamire has his team headed in the correct direction.

Note that the Tigers have in fact already doubled their number of league wins from last year.

Pacific averages 106.0 points per 100 possessions. The Tigers also own the top free throw rate in the conference at 39.8 percent. Note that Pacific also turns the ball over on just 15.7 percent of its offensive possessions, ranking the team second in that category. Miles Reynolds was a stand out in the 60-58 home win over Portland on Saturday with 25 points.

San Diego averages 103.1 points per 100 possessions, while allowing 103.7 points per 100 possessions. The Toreros have been hot from range, making 37.4 percent from behind the arc this season (second in conference.)

I’ll point out though that the Tigers are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven against a team with a winning straight up record, while the Toreros are a poor 0-4-1 ATS in their last five following an ATS loss.

Pacific is a tough team, which takes care of the ball and gets to the foul line a lot. San Diego simply doesn’t match up well in this one whatsoever and I expect it to stumble again tonight. 

And while the outright victory clearly isn’t out of the question, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can in the end. Play on Pacific.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (9:05 EST).

The Lakers come in off a 139-117 setback in New Orleans just last night and suffice it to say, with the All Star break up next, all signs point to a classic letdown for LA this evening as well.

Minnesota on the other hand will not be taking a night off because it comes in having lost three of its last four, most recently a 126-108 home defeat to Houston. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the Wolves have to be loving their chances tonight as they’ve already taken both meetings between the clubs so far this year, including a convincing 114-96 victory on New Year’s Day.

The Lakers come in averaging 107 PPG, while conceding 109.5. Brook Lopez averages 12 points and 13.9 boards per game, while the newly acquired Isaiah Thomas averages 15.2 points a night thus far. 

The Wolves average 109.6 PPG and they concede 106.7. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.4 pints and 12.1 boards per game, while Jimmy Butler adds 22.4 points and 5.5 boards per night. 

From a trend based stand point, there’s no question who this one favors, as note that the Lakers are a brutal 0-5 ATS in their last five in the second game of a back-to-back scenario, while the Timberwolves are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games against a team with a losing road record.

LA is dealing with some new faces, injuries and a tired starting unit. Minnesota has had a night off and can’t be too happy with the way that it’s played of late. When you add it all up, a big time blowout is imminent.

Lay the points, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

(MLB REMINDER: After more than 30 years as a professional handicapper, Larry has finished among the “World’s best” in every major North American sport several times. Major League Baseball has been no exception. In fact, over the last three years Ness is ranked as the No. 1 MLB handicapper in the entire World! Note that Larry has banked $35,083 in profits over the last three regular seasons combined (know anyone that’s done better?!) 2017 saw Larry post over +$10,000 units in the regular season and then he’d also go on to go a spectacular 18-8-1 +$8,530 in the playoffs, for a total of $18,538! And now 2018 has the potential to be the BIGGEST season of them all!)

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Arizona (9:00 EST).

The 20-6 Arizona Wildcats are at Arizona State to take on the 19-6 Sun Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Arizona State comes into this one having won three straight. Arizona had won seven in a row, then dropped two in a row, before then taking care of USC this past weekend.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Wildcats have to be loving their chances to keep the momentum rolling, because when these teams faced off against each other on December 30th, it was Arizona which prevailed 84-78. Deandra Ayton had 23 points and 18 boards in that one.

One other player to keep your eyes on today is Wildcats’ junior Allonzo Trier, who is averaging 20.5 points in his four career match ups against the Sun Devils. Rawle Alkins had 20 points and five assists in the win over the Trojans. 

Arizona State is 4-6 in Pac-12 play, but it comes into this one off three straight victories. The Sun Devils are led by Tra Holder as ASU is ranked 13th in the country in offensive efficiency.

Both teams have fared poorly against the spread this season, but I’ll point out that the Wildcats are still a solid 7-4 ATS in their last 11 as a PICK or underdog, while Arizona State is just 4-15 ATS in its last 19 off a win against a conference rival (including only 1-5 ATS this season.)

Arizona is 39-21 on the road since 2011, the best road team in the Pac 12. I believe the Sun Devils have a letdown here after their extended stretch of decent play. Play on Arizona.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Houston (7:00 EST).

Cincinnati is poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after starting AAC play 12-0 and coming into this contest having won 16 straight. 

Houston is 9-3 in league action and tied with Wichita State for second in the American Athletic Conference. 

The Bearcats come in off a 76-51 win over SMU on Sunday, while the Cougars enter off three straight wins, most recently smashing Tulane at home 73-42 over the weekend.

Note that this is a revenge game for Houston after it fell 80-70 at Cincinnati on January 31st.

Cincy averages 76.5 PPG and it concedes 55.9. Kyle Washington had 17 points and 18 boards in his team’s latest win (note that SMU had just six scholarship players and dressed eight and it clearly showed.)

The Cougars have won five of their last six, with the only loss in that time coming on the road in Cincinnati. Houston has proven that it can be competitive with the best in the conference, beating Wichita State on January 20th and it’s going to be risking life and limb tonight in trying to score the upset, to avenge the earlier loss and to protect home floor. Keep your eyes on Rob Gray, who leads the team with 17.7 points, 4.3 assists and 1.2 steals per night.

In a contest which I envision being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I’m going to grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on St. John’s (9:00 EST).

The 13-13 St. John’s Red Storm are at DePaul to take on the 10-14 Blue Demons on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

St. John’s comes into this one on top form and “under the radar” in my opinion. The Red Storm had lost 11 games in a row before then posting three straight wins over Duke, Villanova and Marquette.

DePaul also comes in off a victory, beating Providence last Saturday to snap a three-game slide.

Note that this is a revenge game for St. John’s after it fell 91-74 to the Blue Demons at home on January 6th. Shamorie Ponds has been unstoppable of late (33.5 points average over his last four games) and I think he’ll play a big role tonight as well. 

Ponds has been getting help though, as Justin Simon has now posted back-to-back double-doubles, averaging 16 points and 10.5 boards per game. 

DePaul has never swept St. John’s in a single season since coming over to the Big East in 2005 and suffice it to say, I don’t expect that trend to change today either. Marin Maric has been a standout of late for the Blue Demons with an average of 20.5 points and 7.5 boards over his last two games. 

I think it’s significant to note as well that the Red Storm have performed decently in this spot for bettors of late, going 3-1 ATS in their last four against teams with losing records, while conversely, this is a position in which the Blue Demons have struggled, going a poor 7-8 ATS as the underdog already this season and 0-2 ATS off a SU win against a conference rival.

St. John’s is playing arguably the best basketball in the country right now and Ponds seems to be on a mission. The revenge factor is a very real angle that the visitors can use as motivation tonight and in my opinion, it will in fact prove to be the difference.

Lay the points with confidence, play on St. John’s.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Syracuse (9:00 EST).

NC State comes in deflated here as it’s now dropped two straight, most recently a 96-89 setback at home to No. 21 UNC on Saturday. 

Conversely, I expect the home side to continues its recent surge after it won its second straight by taking down the Demon Deacons 78-70 at home over the weekend. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Syracuse has to be liking its chances tonight as it’s won seven of the last ten in the series, including two straight and the most recent, 100-93 in OT on February 1st, 2017.

NC State averages 80.9 PPG and it concedes 74.1. Allerik Freeman leads the nightly charge with 14.1 PPG. In the loss to the Tar Heels, the Wolpack shot a great 54.7 percent from the floor and went seven of 13 from range, but it just wasn’t enough in the end as they’d allow UNC to connect on 56 percent of its shots.

Syracuse averages 68.9 PPG and it concedes 63.4. The Orange shot 46 percent from the floor and went six of 12 from range in the victory over Wake Forest. Tyus Battle leads the nightly charge with 20.3 PPG.

I’ll point out as well that NC State is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against a team with a winning percentage above .600, while Syracuse is just 4-1 ATS in its last five home games against a team with a losing road record. 

The Wolfpack are just 2-4 on the road this year, while the Orange are 13-3 at home. NC State’s inconsistencies and poor defense come back to haunt it here.

Lay the points, play on Syracuse.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Brooklyn Nets (7:35 EST).

I think the Pacers have a bit of a letdown here in their final game before the break. Indiana has won two straight, most recently a 121-113 victory at home over the Knicks on Sunday.

Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the Nets, who enter having lost six straight, most recently a 114-101 setback to the Clippers on Monday. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think as the Pacers have taken six straight in the series, including a 123-119 OT victory in the most recent back on December 23rd.

Indiana averages 106.8 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Victor Oladipo leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.08 steals per game, while Myles Turner adds 13.6 points and 6.5 boards per night.

Brooklyn averages 105.4 PPG and it concedes 109.7. D’Angelo Russell averages 15.6 points and 4.4 assists per night. Russell had 16 points in a losing cause to the Clippers.

I’ll point out though that Indiana is just 6-8 ATS this year after scoring 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Brooklyn is 8-5 ATS this season after three or more consecutive SU losses and 21-16 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

I look for Indiana to get caught “looking ahead” to its time off after its extended stretch of excellence and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry Nets to step up and take advantage of this favorable situation.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the New York Knicks (7:35 EST).

The Wizards snapped a two-game slide with a 101-90 victory over the Bulls on the road on Saturday, while the Knicks come in having lost seven straight, most recently a listless 108-92 setback to Philadelphia on Monday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement I think though, as the Wizards have taken seven straight in the series (and 14 of the last 15), including a 121-103 home victory in the first matchup this year back on January 3rd. 

The Wizards average 107.2 PPG and they concede 105.4. Tomas Satoransky had 25 points and six assists in the victory over Chicago. 

The Knicks average 103.5 PPG and they concede 105.9. Kristaps Porzingis is out for the year with a torn ACL, meaning that the home side will be relying on committee to get the job done tonight. Note that Enes Kanter chips in 14.2 points and 10.6 boards per night, while Tim Hardaway Jr. adds 16.2 per outing.

I’ll point out as well that Washington is just 1-3 ATS already this year after allowing 90 points or less in its previous outing (also 0-1 ATS when playing with three or more days of rest), while New York is 16-11 ATS at home and 25-16 ATS in its last 41 after three or more consecutive losses. 

I think the Wizards get caught a little flat footed after the extra time off and I believe they’re also going to be caught “looking ahead” to the All Star break and past their lowly opponent tonight.

The Knicks though clearly can’t afford the same luxury, as this is a team desperate for something positive to end the first half.

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points a you can.

Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Oakland (7:00 EST).

The 16-10 Oakland Grizzlies are at Youngstown State to take on the 7-20 Penguins and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Grizzlies are back on track as they’ll be seeking their third straight victory here, most recently an 87-78 home win over Detroit on Friday. The Penguins also enter off a (rare) victory, getting the better of IUPUI 84-80 on the weekend. 

If recent history is any precedence though, then the Golden Grizzlies have to be liking their chances tonight because when these teams met last month, it was Oakland which posted the convincing 95-83 home victory.

Oakland averages 80.4 PPG and it concedes 78.3. The Grizzlies shot 48 percent in the win over Detroit, while holding it to just 43 percent. Kendrick Nunn led the way once again with 28 points and seven boards. Nunn has eclipsed the 30 point plateau nine times this year.

Youngstown State averages 75.4 PPG and it concedes 82.9. The Penguins shot 51 percent in their highly satisfying win over the Jaguars, while holding them to just 46 percent. Cameron Morse had 28 points and he’s now posted 54 over his last two games combined.

I’ll point out though that Oakland is 17-5 ATS in its last 22 road games following three or more consecutive home contests and 45-21-1 ATS in its last 67 following a straight up victory, while Youngstown State is a poor 4-12 ATS in its last 16 following a straight up win.

The Grizzlies are an offensive juggernaut and here they face one of the worst defensive units in the entire nation. The Penguins come out flat in my opinion after their latest victory as all signs do indeed point to a rout from start to finish.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Rutgers (9:00 EST).

We don’t have to question the Scarlet Knights motivation levels tonight as they come in having lost seven straight. Northwestern has been better than its counterpart today, but not by much. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game as well for Rutgers as the Wildcats have taken five of the last six in the series.

Northwestern looks vulnerable here as its been held to 61 points or less in its last four. Last Saturday the Wildcats hit a new low in a 73-57 setback at Maryland, hitting just 33.3 percent from the floor, while also posting 7 assists to 13 turnovers. Scottie Lindsey was a bright spot in the losing cause with 20 points.

Rutgers has been held to 55 points or less in six of its last nine, most recently coming up short in a 67-55 setback at Nebraska this past weekend. DeShawn Freeman finished with 12 points and seven boards in the loss. 

I’ll point out though that Northwestern is just 3-7 ATS on the road this year, while Rutgers is already 8-3 ATS this season in front of the home town crowd. 

I think the more “desperate” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Rutgers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC GAME OF THE YEAR is on Miami Florida (9:00 EST).

While I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I envision this contest being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last.

Virginia has the No. 1 ranking in the country, but it comes in off a gut-wrenching 61-60 home loss to Virginia Tech on Saturday and suffice it to say, I believe this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the visitors after that emotional setback. 

The win streak is over and the pressure is off the Cavs now. Devon Hall was a bright spot in the losing cause with 16 points, while Kyle Guy added 13. 

Virginia has allowed opposing teams to score at a rate of just 82.8 points per 100 possessions this year. The Cavs though are averaging just 59.8 possessions per game and take 21.5 seconds per offensive possession, which so far both rank last in the conference.

Miami averages 107.3 points per 100 possessions, while allowing 105.3 points per 100 possessions. The Hurricanes will be especially motivated here to get back into the winners circle after falling at Boston College on the road on Saturday. Dejan Vasilievic had 17 points, while Chris Lykes added 16 in the loss. 

I’ll point out as well that Virginia is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 following a loss against a conference rival, while Miami has done well against tough defensive clubs by going 8-4 ATS in its last 12 vs teams which concede 64 points or less per night. 

Three of the Cavaliers last five games have been decided by four points or less and I’m expecting another all out battle tonight as well. As mentioned off the top, the outright win isn’t out of the question obviously, but let’s grab the points as assurance. Play on Miami Florida.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (8:05 EST).

Cleveland comes in having won three straight, most recently a 121-99 destruction of Boston on the road on Sunday. OKC on the other hand is stumbling towards the half-way mark, coming in having won for just the second time in seven games after smashing the Grizzlies 110-92 on Sunday. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for James and company, as OKC has taken two straight in the series, including a 148-124 victory in the first matchup in Cleveland back on January 20th this year. 

The Cavaliers come into this one averaging 110 PPG and they concede 109.9. LeBron James averages 26.3 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per game. James’ team looks a lot better after dumping a lot of the older players, as Rodney Hood, George Hill and Jordan Clarkson look poised to help the Cavs make another serious push for a spot in the Finals.

OKC averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 102.7. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.3 boards, 10.3 assists and 1.96 steals per game, while Paul George contributes 22.4 points, 5.4 boards and 2.24 steals per night. 

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and I believe James and his “new” team find a way to avenge the earlier and humbling beatdown that they endured at the hands of the Thunder earlier in the season. It’s a perfect storm of situational factors working in favor of the visitors.

Play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on West Virginia (9:00 EST).

The 17-8 TCU Horned Frogs are at No. 19 West Virginia to take on the 17-7 Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

TCU just beat WVU 82-73 about three weeks ago, setting this up as an immediate revenge scenario for the home side. 

The Mountaineers are hungry for a win here as well, sitting behind Texas Tech and Kansas. 

The Horned Frogs come into this one averaging 85.0 PPG and they concede 76.8. Vladamir Brodziansky led TCU with 25 points in his team’s most recent 87-71 win over Texas.

The Mountaineers average 80.9 PPG and they concede 68.1. WVU’s two-game win streak was snapped in an upset 88-85 setback to Oklahoma State in its most recent action. Jevon Carter was a bright spot with 33 points, four rebounds and four assists in the losing cause. 

I’ll point out though that not only does WVU play with “revenge” tonight, but note that TCU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five following an ATS victory and 0-6 ATS in its last six following a straight-up win, while the Mountaineers are 6-2 ATS in their last eight following an ATS loss.

The home team is also 5-1 ATS in the last six in this series and all signs point to these strong trends continuing. Lay the points, play on West Virginia.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Illinois (7:00 EST).

I think the more “desperate” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Penn State is 7-6 in Ben Ten play, while Illinois is 2-10 in conference action. 

The Nittany Lions most recently beat Maryland 74-70, led by 25 points from Lamar Stevens. 

The Fighting Illini though have lost two straight and eight of ten. In the team’s latest loss, Trent Frazier was a bright spot with 32 points, while Leron Black added 13 points and 11 boards. 

As good as Penn State has looked of late though, I’m going to give some warning about its recent steak, as note that the Nittany Lions are still a poor 3-4 ATS on the road this season and only 2-4 ATS off a win against a conference rival.

And while the Fighting Illini have been struggling, I’ll point out that Illinois is still a solid 8-5 ATS against teams with winning records this season and 4-2 ATS in its last six as a home dog in the 3 points range.

I believe the stage is set for a classic letdown here from Penn State after its recent run, while it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the hungry home side. While the outright win obviously isn’t out of the question, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (3:35 EST).

Cleveland comes to town off its second straight win, beating Atlanta 123-107 on Friday. Boston enters off a 97-81 loss at home to Indiana in the second game of a back-to-back on Friday. So far these teams have split a pair of meetings this season.

The Cavaliers average 109.8 PPG and they concede 110.1. LeBron James averages 26.4 points, 8.1 boards and 8.9 assists per night and he had 22 points, 12 boards and 19 assists in the win over the Hawks. Note that the Cavs were led by Kyle Korver, who exploded for 30 points off the bench against his former team. 

The Celtics average 102.9 PPG and they concede 98.7. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.7 points and five assists per night, while Al Horford adds 13.2 points, 7.8 boards and 5.2 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that the Cavs are 7-3 ATS in their last ten when playing the role of underdog, while Boston is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest. 

Cleveland looked good in its last game and I think its new pieces will be able to work themselves into the mix seamlessly alongside the normal rotation. 

Boston comes in tired and I think it struggles against this re-focused Cavaliers side. And while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, all signs do indeed point to this one being decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. Grab the points, play on Cleveland.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* Situational Stunner on the Phoenix Suns (9:05 EST).

The 29-25 Denver Nuggets are in Phoenix to take on the 19-38 Suns and for a number of different reasons, I think this favors the home side. 

If recent history is any precedence, then Phoenix has to be liking its chances today, because when these teams met earlier this year, it was the Suns that scored the 108-100 victory. 

Devin Booker had 30 points, five boards and five assists in that one for Phoenix, while Jamal Murray had 30 points and five boards to lead the Nuggets in the losing cause.

Denver looks poised for a letdown here after three straight wins. The Nuggets average 107 PPG and they concede 105.9. 

Phoenix averages 104.2 PPG and it concedes 112.4. The Suns will be especially motivated here to return to the winners circle after their most recent pathetic effort, falling 129-81 at home to the Spurs. Big man Alex Len had 14 points and five boards. 

I’ll point out though that Denver has consistently “played down” to the level of its competition, going just 12-15 ATS this year against clubs with losing records. Phoenix though has excelled in this spot for bettors this season, going 8-3 ATS when playing with two days rest, 13-9 ATS after allowing 115 points or more and 8-5 ATS after three or more consecutive SU losses. 

While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything in my opinion definitely points to a much closer than expected battle.

Grab as many points as you can, play on the Suns.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Arizona State (7:00 EST).

UCLA is poised for a letdown here in my opinion after four straight victories, including an 82-74 victory over Arizona in its most recent action. Aaron Holiday had 17 points and eight assists in that one as UCLA would shoot 52 percent from the floor, including 11 of 24 from range:

“It’s a huge road win in the country,” UCLA coach Steve Alford said afterwards. “This is a top-20 team, they’ve been top 10, so this is huge for us.”

Arizona State comes in off a big 80-78 win over USC in its latest action to improve to 18-6 on the season. Tra Holder led the charge with 22 points, while Shannon Evans added 21. 

I base my selections on many different things. This is a great situational play in my opinion. UCLA has won four straight, but it’s still just 2-4 SU and 3-3 ATS on the road. 

Arizona State comes in on top form as well though with two straight victories. Note that it’s 11-2 SU and 7-6 ATS at home this season.

The stage is set for a sizeable victory for the opportunistic home side, as all signs point to the Bruins finally coming out flat after their extended stretch of excellence. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Florida State (4:00 EST).

FSU won’t be lacking for motivation today as it’s lost two of its last three, most recently a tough 59-55 setback at home to No. 2 Virginia on Wednesday. 

Notre Dame though looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after it broke a seven-game slide with a 96-85 home win over Boston College on Tuesday. 

Note that this sets up as a revenge game for the Seminoles as well after the Irish took the last matchup 77-73 in the ACC Tournament semifinals last March.

FSU averages 83.5 PPG and it concedes 72.7. FSU had a ten point lead at half over the Cavaliers, but it couldn’t hold it together down the stretch against Virginia’s nation leading defense. MJ Walker led the way with ten points off the bench in the losing cause.

Notre Dame averages 76.2 PPG and it concedes 68. Bonzie Colson leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points and 10.4 boards per game. TJ Gibbs was a standout in the victory over the Eagles with 28 points. 

I’ll point out though that Florida State is 4-1 ATS in its las five following an ATS loss, while Notre Dame is just 1-5 ATS in its last six against a team with a winning straight-up record. 

The Irish were desperate in their last game and it showed. But they face a tougher opponent this time around and I simply have a hard time seeing Notre Dame matching pace with this highly motivated and high-scoring Seminoles side. 

All signs point to a rout, play on Florida State.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on Youngstown State (1:00 EST).

The 6-20 Youngstown State Penguins are at IUPUI to take on the 8-16 Jaguars on Saturday afternoon and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Penguins enter off a 100-75 road loss to UIC. If recent history is any precedence though, then the visitors have to be loving their chances for a bounce back this afternoon because when these teams played last month, it was Youngstown State which posted the solid 85-62 win. 

The Penguins come in averaging 75 points and conceding 83. Cameron Morse was a bright spot in Youngstown State’s most recent setback with 26 points.

The Indiana-Purdue Jaguars enter off a 78-73 win over Cleveland State on Thursday. The Jags shot 59 percent form the floor and got 19 points from TJ Henderson. 

I’ll caution in reading too much into the performance though, as the Jaguars had dropped five straight previous to the win. So far IUPUI averages 68.3 points, while conceding 73.5. 

IUPUI is averaging only 67 points over its last six games and it was out rebounded 39-19 in the first meeting between the schools this year. 

I like the Penguins to have a “repeat performance” on the road against this incredibly inconsistent Jaguars team and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Play on Youngstown State.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on Maryland (12:00 EST).

Note that play almost got stamped with a top 10* ranking, but just narrowly missed out.

Northwestern enters at 6-6 in Big 10 play after winning its last two, which includes an upset 61-52 victory over then No. 20 Michigan at home. 

Maryland though will be risking life and limb to get back into the winners circle after dropping four of its last five, including a 74-70 setback at Penn State on Wednesday. 

The Wildcats average 70.9 PPG and they concede 65.6. Bryant McIntosh tied a season high with 24 points in the win over Michigan on Tuesday. It was a revenge scenario for Northwestern, which fell 58-47 at Michigan a little over a week before its victory.

The Terrapins average 75.1 PPG and they concede 67.5. In the loss to the Nittany Lions Maryland would shoot a decent 54.3 percent and got 13 points and nine boards from Bruno Fernando. 

I simply feel that this sets up as a classic letdown spot for Northwestern after winning four of its last five and off the slight upset over rival Michigan. Conversely, I fully expect Maryland to play with the type of desperation that a team that’s lost seven of its last ten, including four of its last five, should.

All signs point to a blowout, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Marquette (12:00 EST).

Marquette improved to a still poor 5-7 in Big East action after upsetting Seton Hall 88-85 on the road on Wednesday and suffice it to say, I think the Golden Eagles carry that momentum over here.

Golden Eagles guard Markus Howard had 32 points and seven boards in the win over the Pirates. Marquette out rebounded Seton Hall by ten and held it to just 42.9 percent shooting. The Golden Eagles average 81.9 PPG and they concede 77.8 so far this season.

St. John’s though looks poised for a letdown here after back-to-back upset victories, including beating Duke last Saturday and then coming back to beat No. 1 Villanova 81-77 on the road.

The Red Storm average 72.9 PPG and they concede 71.3. Shamorie Ponds had 33 points against Duke and then had 26 points and five assists in the victory over Villanova. 

St. John’s has been playing over its head and simply doesn’t have the offense to match pace with Marquette. I think we’re getting great value on the superior team. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the Chicago Bulls (8:05 EST).

The 34-23 Minnesota Timberwolves are in Chicago to take on the 18-35 Bulls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Minnesota comes in off an exhausting 140-138 OT loss in Cleveland on Wednesday, while the Bulls have had three nights off after a 104-98 loss to Sacramento. Note that this is a double revenge game for Chicago aver the Wolves took both meetings last year.

Minnesota averages 109.5 PPG and it concedes 106.3. Jimmy Butler had 35 points in the loss to Cleveland, while Karl Anthony Towns contributed 30 points and ten boards. 

Chicago averages 103.5 PPG and it concedes 109.2. Zach LaVine was a bright spot in his team’s latest loss, posting 27 points, while Justin Holiday was also decent with 20 points of his own. 

I think it’s important to note that Minnesota has struggled in this spot for bettors all year though, going just 13-14 ATS on the road and only 5-6 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite.

Chicago has for the most part been a train wreck this season, but it comes in rested and very determined. Also note that it’s a solid 13-10 ATS at home already this year and 7-2 ATS in its last nine when playing with three or more days of rest.

With a night off before a home game against bottom feeder Sacramento, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors in some small way “looking past” their lowly non-conference opponent tonight.

Off seven straight losses, clearly the Bulls don’t have the same luxury.

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitely believe that the stage is set for a “nail-biter” this evening. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Minnesota (7:30 EST).

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement, as Indiana has taken four of the last five between the schools.

We don’t have to question the Golden Gophers motivation levels today as they come in having dropped six straight. Minnesota though has been extremely competitive of late and I think that momentum gets carried over here. Note that it forced OT at Michigan, only to lose by three points. It also fell 91-85 at home to Nebraska recently. 

In their latest setback the Gophers shot a decent 49.3 percent from the floor and went a sharp 10 of 19 from range. Nate Mason was a standout with 34 points, including hitting seven 3-pointers.

The Hoosiers broke a four-game slide with a 65-43 win over Rutgers last time out. The Scarlet Knights shot a pathetic 24.1 percent from the floor. Juwan Morgan led Indiana with 24 points and eight boards in the victory.

Minnesota won’t be rolling over here as it desperately tries to score the upset after its recent string of “near misses.” 

Indiana has been better at home than on the road, but with another “cream puff” in Illinois coming to town next, there’s no question that the Hoosiers have hit a favorable (vanilla) part of their schedule. 

I think the “hungrier” team takes this one right down to the wire and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on USC (11:00 EST).

Arizona State started the year 12-0, but it’s since alternated wins and losses over its last ten in conference action. 

USC will look to take advantage of this inconsistency and to get back into the winners circle after its 82-79 setback to ULCA, snapping a season-long six-game winning streak. Elijah Stewart had 21 points in the losing cause. 

The Trojans average 111.8 points per 100 possessions during conference play, which ranks third in the Pac 12. USC has been pretty good on the defensive side of the ball as well, holding opponents to 100.2 points per 100 possessions, which ranks it second in conference. 

USC is on the bubble right now for the tournament, so does not have the luxury to take the foot of the gas.

Arizona State comes in off an 88-78 win over Washington State, led by 23 points from Shannon Evans, along with another 20 from Tra Holder. 

ASU averages 107.5 points per 100 possessions (ranked fifth), however I’ll point out that it’s also just 1-6-2 ATS in its last nine against teams with a winning straight up record. 

USC is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 on the road and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Las Vegas Insider is on Washington (10:00 EST).

Washington comes in at 17-6 overall and 7-3 in league play. Oregon has tumbled a bit of late with a 15-8 overall record, including going just 5-5 in conference action. Most recently the Ducks were smashed 96-61 at the hands of the Cardinal. 

The Huskies come in on top form, most recently getting the better of No. 9 Arizona 78-76 to stretch their current streak to four in a row. Dominic Green led the way with 14 points off the bench for Washington. 

The Ducks have been all over the map as far as their game-to-game consistency is concerned and the 35 point loss to Stanford is a major red flag warning in my opinion. Oregon looked particularly poor on the defensive side, allowing the Cardinal to shoot 62.5 percent from the floor, including going 12 of 20 from range. 

I’ll point out as well that Oregon has struggled mightily in this spot all year for bettors, going just 7-11 ATS as a favorite and only 5-9 ATS against teams with winning records, while Washington has done extremely well in this position by going 7-3 ATS as an underdog and 3-1 ATS in lined road games. 

These teams are moving in opposite directions and everything points to those trends continuing.

Grab the points, play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Utah (8:00 EST).

Stanford comes in having won two straight, however a NCAA tournament bid is almost assuredly out of the question unless the Cardinal can take the conference tournament. Stanford is poised for a letdown here in my estimation though after smashing Oregon 96-61 in its most recent action, led by 25 points from Dorian Pickens. 

Utah comes in hungry here as it’s lost two straight to drop back to under .500 at 5-6 in conference play, most recently a 67-55 setback to Colorado. The Utes couldn’t get anything going against the Buffaloes on Friday, shooting 41 percent. Utah though is 4-1 ATS in its last five after scoring 55 points or less.

Stanford has looked better of late, but it’s hard not to imagine the Cardinal coming in a tiny bit complacent here. Also note that Stanford is just 2-3 on the road. 

Utah is 9-2 at home and is the much “hungrier” team. I think the Utes risk life and limb to get back into the winners circle after their recent stretch of shoddy play. This line could easily be higher.

Play on Utah.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Miami Heat (7:35 EST).

The Rockets come in off a very satisfying 123-113 win at Brooklyn just last night and I think they’ll be “gassed” here.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Miami as it comes into this one having lost four straight, most recently a 111-109 home loss to Orlando on Monday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Heat as well after they fell 99-90 in Houston back on January 22nd.

This the final game of a four-game trip for the Rockets, who come in averaging 114 PPG and conceding 105.7. James Harden leads the nightly charge with 31.2 points, five boards and 9.1 assists per night. 

Miami comes in averaging 100.4 PPG and conceding 101.3. Hassan Whiteside averages 14.2 points and 11.8 boards per game, while Goran Dragic contributes 17.1 points, 4.1 boards and 4.6 assists per night.

I’ll point out though that Houston is just 11-14 ATS this year against teams with winning records, while Miami is 6-1 ATS this season off an upset loss as a favorite (also 12-10 ATS in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.)

I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night and while I clearly wouldn’t be shocked by the straight up outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can, as I believe this one will be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. 

Play on the Heat.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Florida State (7:00 EST).

The 22-1 Virginia Cavaliers are in Florida State to take on the 17-6 Seminoles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cavs enter off a 59-44 win at Syracuse on Saturday, while the ‘Noles posted an 80-76 victory over Louisville in their latest action. If recent history is any precedence, then FSU has to be liking its chances tonight, because when these teams met last year, it was the Seminoles that escaped with the 60-58 victory.

Virginia averages only 68.7 PPG, but it concedes just 52.3. The Cavs come in riding a 14 game winning streak and they’re led by Kyle Guy, who averages 15.5 PPG.

FSU averages 84.7 PPG and it concedes 73.3. Phil Coger had 16 points in his team’s latest victory.

Clearly Virginia has been on a roll and it is arguably the hottest team in the nation. However, I simply feel that this sets up finally as a bit of a letdown spot.

FSU won’t be rolling over here and it has the offense to take the Cavs out of their comfort zone. Last year these teams engaged in a highly competitive battle and all signs once again point to a spirited affair this evening.

Grab as many points as you can, play on Florida State.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on George Washington (7:00 EST).

The 10-13 La Salle Explorers are at George Washington to take on the 9-14 Colonials on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Explorers come in off an 81-78 home win over St. Joseph’s on Saturday and suffice it to say, I believe they’re poised for a predictable letdown here.

The Colonials will be focused though after their humbling 87-58 loss to Davidson in their latest action.

La Salle comes into this one averaging 73.5 PPG and conceding 74.5. BJ Johnson had 25 points in his team’s latest upset win over the Hawks.

George Washington enters averaging 63.9 PPG and conceding 70.7. Yuta Watanabe had 20 points in a losing cause to the Wildcats. 

I’ll point out though that from a trend based stand point, there’s no question that this one favors the Colonials, as note that the Explorers are just 1-4 ATS in their last five games against a team with a wining percentage below .400, while George Washington is still 6-0 ATS in its last six at home in this series.

If ever the Colonials were going to get back on track, here’s the perfect opponent to do it against. La Salle has dropped all five of its conference road games, allowing an average of 85 points in those setbacks. 

Grab the points, play on George Washington.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Michigan State (9:00 EST).

MSU comes in having won six straight, but it won’t be taking anything for granted here as Iowa has beaten the Spartans in two of the last three meetings.

Michigan State has held its opposition to 68 points or less in four straight games, most recently it enters off a 63-60 win at Indiana. 

The Spartans shot 48.9 percent from the floor and went .500 from range. Four players went on to score nine points or more, led by Matt McQuad off the bench with 12.

Iowa comes in with zero momentum after getting smashed 82-58 at Penn State in its most recent action. The Hawkeyes shot only 38.1 percent from the floor, including going just 1 of 10 from 3-point land. Tyler Cook was a bright spot with 19 points and six boards. 

I’ll point out though that MSU is a sharp 34-16-1 ATS in its last 51 against teams with a losing SU record, while Iowa is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven against teams with a winning percentage above 60 percent. 

While the Spartans have been winning of late, none of those victories have been of the “blowout” variety. However, the conditions and the numbers both now finally point to a big time rout for MSU here in my opinion.

Lay the points, play on Michigan State.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Boston College (8:00 EST).

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I think this one will come down to the wire.

The Boston College Eagles are 4-6 in ACC play, while the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are 3-7 in conference action.

BC comes in with momentum after downing Georgia Tech 80-72 at home on Sunday. Notre Dame though comes in discombobulated after seven straight losses.

Note as well that this is a “double revenge” game for BC after ND took both games last year. 

So far the Eagles average 75.7 PPG and concede 71.9. Ky Bowman had 17 points, eight boards, four assists and two steals in the victory over the Yellow Jackets last weekend.

The Fighting Irish average 75.7 PPG and concede 71.9. Notre Dame comes in off a poor 76-58 loss to NC State. Matt Farrell returned from injury to score 16 points, but the Irish were unable to overcome another poor shooting night, connecting on just 38.9 percent of their shots, while also turning the ball over 15 times.

I’ll point out as well that Boston College has been excelling in this spot for bettors for a while now, going 11-5 ATS in its last 16 following an ATS victory, while Notre Dame has struggled by going just 2-6 ATS in its last eight at home and 0-4 ATS in its last four following an ATS setback.

The Irish have won nine straight in this series, but that streak is clearly in jeopardy tonight. BC will look to take advantage of a less than 100% Farrell and try to score the outright upset. However as mentioned off the top, I will in the end be grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Toronto Raptors (7:35 EST).

Boston comes in a tiny bit complacent here in my opinion after winning four in a row, most recently a narrow 97-96 win at home over Portland on Sunday. 

Toronto comes in having won two straight and four of its last five after smashing Memphis 101-86 on Sunday. 

Note that this is indeed a “revenge” game for the Raptors after they fell 95-94 in the first meeting in Boston back on November 12th. 

Boston comes in averaging 103.2 PPG and it concedes 98.4. The Celtics needed to overcome a 16 point halftime deficit to beat the Blazers, led by Al Horford with 22 points, ten boards and five assists. 

Toronto averages 111.4 PPG and it concedes 103.8. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. The Raptors held the Grizzlies to just 35.8 percent shooting and forced 19 turnovers in their latest victory. Deion Wright led the way off the bench with 15 points (six players scored in double figures for TO in that one.) 

I’ll point out that this is one area in which the Celtics have consistently struggled in for bettors for quite some time though, going just 9-15 ATS in their last 24 after playing three consecutive home games (including only 3-4 ATS this season), while Toronto has excelled in this spot by going 28-13 ATS in its last 41 against the division.

Boston is dealing with some injury issues, which is the main reason why there was a delay in the sports books posting this line. Regardless though, I think there are enough situational factors working in favor of Toronto tonight to pull the trigger on the home side.

In my opinion, everything points to a lop-sided blowout. Play on the Raptors.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Michigan (7:00 EST).

The 19-6 Michigan Wolverines are at Northwestern to take on the 14-10 Wildcats on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Michigan comes in off a 76-73 OT win over Minnesota on Saturday, while Northwestern enters off a 60-52 win over Wisconsin in its latest action.

The Wolverines are now 8-4 in league play. Michigan averages 74.5 PPG and it concedes just 63.5. Charles Matthews had 13 points and 11 boards in the victory over the Gophers.

The Wildcats average 71.3 PPG and they concede 66.1. Derek Pardon had 17 points in the victory over the Badgers last weekend. 

I’ll point out though that Michigan has done extremely well in this spot of late for bettors, going 5-1 ATS in its last six on the road and 5-1 ATS following an ATS loss, while Northwestern has done very poorly by going just 1-5 ATS in its last six following a straight up victory and only 1-4 ATS in its last five following an ATS win.

The Wolverines held the Wildcats to 38.3 percent shooting in their 58-47 win at home earlier in the year and they continue to dominate lower-scoring teams with their aggressive defensive play. Everything points to a “repeat performance” here. 

Play on Michigan.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Indiana Pacers (7:05 EST).

I think the Wizards four-game win streak comes to an end here against this determined home side. Indiana is going to be the “hungrier” team in my opinion, sitting just one game behind Washington for fifth place in the Eastern Conference. 

The Wizards average 107.4 PPG and they concede 105.5. Thomas Satoransky had 19 points and six assists in his teams 115-98 win over the Magic on Saturday. Washington is finding ways to win without star guard John Wall in the line-up, but I have a hard time seeing the team continuing to carry that momentum.

Indiana comes in off a 100-92 win over the 76ers on Saturday, as Victor Oladipo poured in 19 points. The Pacers looked particularly sharp on the defensive end of the floor, holding Philadelphia to just 37.9 percent shooting. 

I’ll point out as well that Washington has done poorly in this spot of late for bettors, going just 5-11 ATS in its last 16 following a straight-up victory, while Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per night.

After their extended stretch of excellent play, all signs do indeed finally point to the Wizards having a letdown here.

This is the first time these teams have played this season, but last year Washington took two of three. It’s payback time. Play on the Pacers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Rutgers (7:00 EST).

The 12-12 Indiana Hoosiers are visiting the Louis Brown Athletic Center to take on the 12-13 Scarlet Knights on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams had big expectations coming into the season and neither has lived up.

Indiana has lost four in a row. So far the Hoosiers average 71.6 PPG and concede 71.1. Juwan Morgan was a bright spot in the Hoosiers tough 63-60 loss to Michigan State with 23 points, while Freddie McSwain added eight points and grabbed 16 boards.

Rutgers averages 66.8 PPG and it concedes just 63.8. Corey Sanders had 31 points, seven boards and three assists in the Knights 78-76 setback to Purdue in their most recent action. 

From a trend based stand point though, there’s no question that this one favors Rutgers, as note that Indiana is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 on the road against an opponent with a winning home record, while the Scarlet Knights are 6-1 ATS in their last seven at home against an opponent with a losing road record.

Indiana has played better at home than on the road this year. Rutgers is the “hungrier” team, which will look to defeat the Hoosiers for the first time. 

Play on the Scarlet Knights.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Super Bowl Las Vegas Insider is on the NE Patriots at 6:30 ET.

Nearly two decades of NFL dominance will be on display when the Patriots play in their 8th Super Bowl this coming Sunday. And when the confetti falls sometime around 10 p.m. Eastern time at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Roger Goodell will once again trudge to the makeshift platform on the 50 yard line and hand another trophy to Robert Kraft, Bill Belichick and Tom Brady.

An entire generation of football fans has known the NFL only when it has been dominated by the New England Patriots. Many will groan as the Patriots march to their 6th championship, wondering how a dynasty is possible in a league where salaries are capped and the draft rewards the worst teams.

The Eagles are a nice team. They seemingly have the Giants-like type of defense that twice defeated Brady – an attacking four-man front matched with solid corners. They have a feel-good story of backup QB Nick Foles coming off the best game of his life in the NFC Championship Game and Foles will be going against a Pats defense that gives up a lot of yards. They also have an effective running game that includes LeGarrette Blount, who will never have to pay for another drink in Philly if he can defeat NE one year after helping the Pats win the Super Bowl.

But while the pieces are there for Philadelphia, it won’t be enough. Just like it wasn’t enough in 2005, when the Eagles came up just short against the Pats in the 39th Super Bowl. New England has too much experience, too much preparation and too much focus.

How’s this for a stat? Next Sunday will be the Patriots’ 8th Super Bowl of the decade and they have not scored a single point in the first quarter of any of them? Does it matter in the slightest if the Patriots fall behind next Sunday? Ask the Falcons if you don’t know the answer.

Barring a disabling injury to the oldest player on the field tomorrow, the Patriots will win this one – and cover the 5-point spread while doing it. They have the best coach and the best quarterback and in a game where the talent gap is often measured in millimeters, most of the time that’s enough.

Quite simply, the Patriots know how to win these games and unlike the Eagles they will be prepared for every possible situation. And while they would never admit it even under torture, they probably already know what they’re going to say when Goodell once again forces a smile and hands them the Lombardi Trophy. Play on New England.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Oakland (12:00 EST).

The IUPUI Jaguars enter the final game of a five game road trip, losing the first four by an average of 12.3 points, most recently falling 74-60 to Detroit. Jaylen Minnett was a bright spot off the bench with 12 points. 

IUPUI averages 94 points per 100 possessions, which ranks tenth in the Horizon League.

Oakland averages 108.6 points per 100 possessions, which ranks second in the conference. The Golden Grizzlies will be eager to return to form after a lacklustre 79-73 loss at home to Illinois Chicago. Kendrick Nunn had an off night, finishing with 20 points. 

I’ll point out though that the Jags are just 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven on the road against a team with a winning home record. 

Also note that the home team is 6-1 ATS in the last seven in this series.

IUPUI is tired and that was completely evident in its last game. Nunn is coming off his worst start of the year, so he’ll be “chomping at the bit” to atone. 

Everything points to a big time home side blowout, so lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Antonio Spurs (9:00 EST).

I don’t think there’s any need to overanalyze this one.

Utah comes in off a very satisfying 129-97 win at Phoenix just last night and suffice it to say, I think the visitors come in “gassed” here.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Spurs as they come in off a 102-91 loss at home to the Rockets. Also note that this is a “double revenge” scenario for San Antonio, as Utah has taken the last two in the series, including the first meeting this year 100-89 back on December 21st in front of the home town crowd.

Utah averages 102 PPG and it concedes 102.1. Ricky Rubio averages 11.4 points, five assists and 1.57 steals per game, while Rodney Hood adds 16.7 points.

San Antonio averages 100.7 PPG and it concedes 97.6. LaMarcus Aldridge averages 22.3 points and 8.5 boards per game, while Pau Gasol contributes 10.8 points and 8.3 boards per night.

I think it’s worth noting though that the Jazz are still only 11-15 ATS on the road this season, while San Antonio is 17-9 ATS at home.

The Spurs are also 7-3 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more.

Utah is playing the second game of a back to back and like the Spurs, it is also dealing with injuries. In my opinion, this number could easily be a lot larger. Lay the points, play on San Antonio.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Oregon State (8:00 EST).

The 11-9 Oregon State Beavers are in California to take on the 7-15 Golden Bears on Saturday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Cal has lost nine straight and I believe the Bears stumble here as well.

The Beavers won’t be taking anything for granted, as they come in having lost two straight and four of their last five. 

Most recently Oregon State fell 66-57 to Oregon, shooting just 43 percent from the floor, including only 17 percent from range. Stephen Thompson Jr. was a bright spot in the setback with 16 points, Tres Tinkle added 11 points, six boards and five assists, while Ethan Thompson added 13 points. 

The Beavers looked decent defensively though, holding the Ducks to 44 percent shooting.

Cal comes in off a 77-59 setback to USC, shooting 38 percent from the floor, including just 23 percent from range. Marcus Lee led the way in the losing cause with 23 points and 12 boards, while Justice Sueing added 14 points, five boards and three steals. 

I’ll point out that from a trend based stand point, this one definitely sets up nicely for the visitors, as note that Oregon State is 5-2 ATS in its last seven following a straight-up loss, while Cal is just 1-5 ATS in its last six following an ATS setback.

These are two struggling teams, but the Beavers have been competitive against stiff competition and I believe their depth and superior defensive play will prove to be too much for the Bears to overcome. 

Lay the points, play on Oregon State.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* SUPER SHOCKER is on Indiana (8:15 EST).

The 21-3 Michigan State Spartans are in Indiana to take on the 12-11 Hoosiers on Saturday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Spartans are ranked No. 5 and come in content after winning five straight, most recently coming back from a 12 point deficit to beat Penn State 76-68 on Wednesday. 

Indiana will be eager to score the upset here after its latest 71-56 setback at No. 17 Ohio State on Tuesday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Hoosiers, who fell 85-57 on the road at MSU on January 19th. 

The Spartans average 84 PPG and they concede 64.3. In the win over the Nittany Lions, Miles Bridges poured in 23 points and grabbed nine boards. MSU was a bit sloppy though, committing 15 turnovers.

Indiana averages 72.1 PPG and it concedes 71.5. Devonte Green was a bright spot in the Hoosiers latest setback with 20 points, while Juwan Morgan also had a decent game with 15 points and six boards.

I think the Hoosiers are the much “hungrier” team here. Also note that the home team is 20-8 ATS in the last 28 in this series. Indiana is 10-4 at home and already has some decent covers there (Purdue.) 

I think the Spartans get caught a little flat footed and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do expect this one to come right down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Purdue (4:00 EST).

The 21-2 Purdue Boilermakers come in averaging 84.6 PPG, including hitting 43.6 percent from range. On the other end of the floor they come in conceding just 63.5 PPG. Keep your eyes on 7-foot-2 Isaac Haas, who averages 14.6 points, 5.3 boards and 1.3 blocks per night. 

Rutgers averages only 65.5 PPG on its best night, which clearly doesn’t bode well in facing the Boilermakers’ elite unit. 

The Scarlet Knights have so far been above average defensively, conceding just 63 PPG. Corey Sanders leads the nightly charge with 13.6 points, while Deshawn Freeman adds 11.3.

Ultimately though I don’t expect Purdue to look past its lowly opponent today. Rutgers has a strong defense, but this will clearly be its stiffest test of the year. And unfortunately for the Scarlet Knights, they absolutely do not have the offense to keep up with the high-flying Boilermakers.

I’m expecting a rout from start to finish. Play on Purdue.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Miami Florida (2:00 EST).

Miami comes in with momentum, coming into this one having won three of its last four, most recently a 69-57 victory over Pitt on Wednesday.

Virginia Tech has won three in a row, most recently a tough 85-80 OT effort over Boston College on the road on Wednesday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Hurricanes, who fell 66-61 to the Hokies last February.

Miami comes in averaging 74.9 points, while conceding 65.2. Lonnie Walker IV had 16 points and five boards in the victory over the Panthers. Dewan Huell leads the nightly charge though this season with an average of 13.4 points and 6.9 boards per game. 

Virginia Tech averages 85.1 PPG and it concedes 73.2. Kerry Blackshear Jr. had 20 points and eight boards in the Hokies’ most recent victory. 

The Hurricanes have the defense to keep them in this one late. Miami also plays with revenge. With these two factors working in their favor, I like the Hurricanes to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Grab as many points as you can, play on Miami Florida.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on Duke (12:00 EST).

The 19-3 Duke Blue Devils are at Madison Square Garden to take on the St. John’s Red Storm on Saturday afternoon and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Blue Devils rebounded from a tight loss to Virginia to take down Notre Dame 88-66 on Monday, while the Red Storm come in off a 73-68 loss to Xavier in their most recent action.

Duke would shoot 50 percent form the floor and was 12 of 20 from range, while also holding the Irish to just 36 percent shooting in its most recent victory. Gary Trent Jr. led the way with 22 points and ten boards. 

Note that the Blue Devils have now allowed 70 or fewer points in four straight games. Duke averages 90.2 PPG and it concedes 72 thus far.

St. John’s averages 72.3 PPG and it concedes 70.9. In the loss to Xavier the Red Storm would go on to shoot a poor 43.9 percent form the floor, while allowing Xavier to hit 46 percent. Shamorie Ponds was a bright spot in the losing cause, posting 31 points.

The Red Storm are a decent defensive team, but this is the toughest offense they’ll see all year. With a tough game at UNC up next, the Blue Devils won’t leave anything to chance.

Lay the points with confidence, play on Duke.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Golden State Warriors (10:35 EST).

Golden State looks to get back on track after getting crushed 129-99 in Utah on Tuesday. Klay Thompson was a bright spot with 27 points, while KD had an “off” night with 17. 

So while the Warriors will be eager to atone for their latest listless effort, Sacramento looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after closing its six game road trip with a 114-103 win over New Orleans on Tuesday, led by 26 points and 12 boards from Zach Rudolph. 

I’ll point out though that the Kings are just 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 following a SU win of more than ten points.

The Warriors on the other hand have excelled in this position by already going 4-1 ATS this year following a loss by ten points or more. 

Golden State is also 5-3 ATS this season in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, and it does indeed play with revenge after falling 110-106 to Sacramento on December 27th.

The Warriors have a “tougher” game in Denver tomorrow night and won’t want to leave anything to chance this evening. 

The Kings on the other hand find themselves in a classic “letdown/look-ahead” spot, having gone 3-1 in their last four on a road trip, only to now return home for their first game in two weeks in Sacramento, followed by a much more “winnable” contest against the visiting Mavericks tomorrow night.

When you add it all up, it makes this larger spread completely manageable for the rested, determined and revenge-minded defending champs to cover. Lay the points, play on Golden State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Oakland (9:00 EST).

The 12-11 UIC Flames are in Oakland to take on the 14-9 Golden Grizzlies on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think UIC has a letdown here after winning four straight, while I believe Oakland comes in razor focused after a 64-51 setback to Wright State in its latest action.

The Flames most recently beat Milwaukee 74-56 on Monday, led by Tarkus Ferguson with 19 points. 

So far UIC averages 72.3 PPG and it concedes 70.3. 

The Grizzlies just couldn’t get going against the Raiders in their latest setback, eventually succumbing 64-51 in the end. Kendrick Nunn was a stand out with 18 points, while Jalen Hayes has 13 points and eight boards. 

Oakland comes into this one averaging 80.4 PPG, while allowing 78.5. Note that Nunn leads the nightly charge with an average of 26.4 points, 4.7 boards and four assists per outing.

Additionally I’ll point out that UIC is just 1-8 ATS in its last nine against teams with a winning SU record, while Oakland is 41-20-1 ATS in its last 62 in the same position. 

When these teams met on January 15th, Oakland won 78-68 and Nunn tallied 32 points and nine boards. UIC hasn’t lost since that game, but the Flames just don’t have the firepower to match pace with this determined home side. All signs point to a rout, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Oregon State (11:00 EST).

The 11-9 Oregon State Beavers are in Stanford to take on the 11-11 Cardinal and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Oregon State comes to town hungry after a listless 66-57 loss to Oregon in its latest action, while Stanford also enters off a setback, falling 89-73 at UCLA.

Note that this sets up as a double revenge spot for the Beavers after the Cardinal took both meetings a year ago.

We don’t have to question the Beavers’ motivation levels tonight as they’ve actually dropped four of their last five. So far Oregon State averages 72.5 PPG and it concedes 68.6. Stephen Thompson Jr. led the way in a losing cause to Oregon on Sunday with 16 points.

The Cardinal average 75 PPG and they concede 75.4. Stanford won five conference games in a row, but it’s since lost three straight. Daejon Davis was a bright spot in the loss to the Bruins with 23 points and ten assists. 

I’ll point out though that Oregon State is 5-1 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while Stanford is just 4-6 ATS when playing the role of favorite this season.

The Cardinal have now scored 73 points or fewer in four of their last five, which doesn’t bode well against this above average Beavers’ defense. Oregon State is conceding just 68 points so far in its eight conference games and all signs point to another big performance here against this inconsistent Stanford offense. 

Grab the points, play on the Beavers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEST-CONF GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Denver Nuggets (10:35 EST).

The Thunder come in off a 102-96 road loss at Washington on Tuesday, snapping an eight-game win streak. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a predictable letdown here as well. 

Conversely, it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for the home side after it dropped its second straight, most recently a hard-fought 106-104 road setback at San Antonio on Tuesday. 

Note that these teams have already split a pair of games this year, with each side winning on its home floor. 

OKC averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 102. Russell Westbrook averages 25.5 points, 9.4 boards and 10.1 assists per game, while Paul George adds 21.3 points, 5.5 boards and 2.17 steals per night. 

In the loss to the Wizards the Thunder averaged just 37.5 percent from the floor and went just 9 of 32 from range. George was a bright spot with 28 points in the losing cause.

Denver averages 106.2 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Nikola Jokic averages 16.2 points, 10.4 boards and 5.3 assist per game. In the setback to the Spurs the Nuggets would shoot 46.5 percent from the floor and go 10 of 23 from 3-point land.

I’ll point out as well that the Thunder have struggled mightily in this spot for bettors all year, going just 2-10 ATS against the division and only 6-13 ATS off an upset loss as a favorite, while the Nuggets have done decently in this position by going 6-4 ATS against the division and 4-1 ATS in their last five against clubs with winning records.

OKC is dealing with injuries and fatigue right now, which doesn’t bode well in Denver’s thin air. I’m banking on the home side defending its court. Play on the Nuggets.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on UC Davis (10:00 EST).

The CSU Northridge Matadors are just 5-16 SU and 7-10 ATS in lined games (including only 2-4 ATS at home). 

The Matadors come in having lost two straight, including at UC Davis 63-56 just last week. CS Northridge has brought home the cash for bettors in four straight, but I think that string ends here.

The Aggies have won seven of ten, including two straight, most recently a convincing 80-56 destruction of Cal Poly Slo as 9.5 point favorites.

These are two teams moving in opposite directions and I expect those trends to carry over here. I’ll also point out that UC Davis is already 5-1 ATS this season after allowing 60 points or less in its previous outing (also 6-1 ATS against schools with losing records), while CS Northridge is a poor 7-13 ATS in its last 20 in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent.

For all the reasons listed above, play on UC Davis.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Wisconsin (8:30 EST).

The 13-10 Northwestern Wildcats get ready to battle the 10-13 Wisconsin Badgers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Northwestern’s two-game win streak was snapped in a 58-47 loss at Michigan on Monday and I think it’s set up for another letdown here.

Conversely, the Badgers come in razor focused, taking nothing for granted after losing three straight and six of seven. 

The good news for the Wildcats in their latest loss is that they’d hold Michigan to just 58 points. The bad news of course was that Northwestern only managed 47 of its own, including getting held scoreless over the final seven minutes. Scottie Lindsey was a bright spot with 15 points, but the rest of the starters combined for just 26 on 11 of 29 shooting. 

The Wildcats average 71.8 PPG and they concede 66.7.

Wisconsin averages 67.8 PPG and it concedes 66.6. Ethan Happ had 25 points, 11 boards and six assists in the Badgers latest loss to Nebraska on Monday. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Northwestern is already just 1-5 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less, while Wisconsin is 4-0 ATS in its last four after playing to three or more consecutive SU losses. 

The Wildcats are just 2-6 on the road. If ever the Badgers were going to make a stand this season, then this is it. I look for the home side to step up and answer the call, so lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is in the Chicago Bulls (10:05 EST).

The 18-32 Chicago Bulls are in Portland to take on the 27-22 Blazers on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Portland comes in off a highly satisfying 104-96 win at the Clippers just last night, while we won’t have to question the overall intensity levels of the Bulls this evening as they enter off four straight losses, most recently to the Bucks. 

Lauri Markkanen, the Bulls leading scorer, won’t be in the line-up tonight. Note that the Bulls are 3-0 without Markkanen in the lineup though this season.

Damian Lillard and the Blazers have looked a lot better of late, but with one night off before a three-game Eastern swing, I do indeed believe this one sets up not only as a “letdown” spot (after last night’s victory), but that it’s also a “look ahead” position. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Chicago is 15-9 ATS on the road this year, while Portland is just 9-12 ATS at home.

The Bulls are dealing with some injury issues, but the situation and the numbers both support the visitors tonight. While I’m stopping short in calling for the outright upset, everything does point to a very tight battle. Grab the points, play on Chicago.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Boston College (9:00 EST).

I’d like to point out, that this particular selection just narrowly missed a top 10* rating.

VT looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after back-to-back wins has it back to .500 in ACC play. BC on the other hand has fallen back below .500 after back-to-back losses. Also note that this is definitely a “revenge” game for the Eagles, as the Hokies have taken three straight in the series.

Virginia Tech pulled off the outright 80-75 upset at Notre Dame in its most recent action. Justin Bibbs led the way in that one and he now has 18 or more points in three of his last five games. The Hokies have scored 80 or more points in six straight games, but VT is still just 3-3 ATS in the span because of shoddy defensive play.

The Eagles will be hungry to get back to form here, as they’ve been held to 69 points or less over their last two games, most recently falling 81-63 to the Orange. Ky Bowman was a bright spot though with 20 points, finishing 5 of 11 range.

Ultimately though for me this one comes down to which team is “hungrier.” BC enters off two straight losses and clearly won’t be taking anything for granted. VT has to be feeling much better about itself and I think it suffers a predictable letdown against this determined Eagles side.

Play on Boston College.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Wake Forest (8:00 EST).

The 16-5 Florida State Seminoles are in Wake Forest to take on the 8-13 Demon Deacons and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think FSU has a small mental lapse here after winning three straight, most recently over VT, GT and Miami. 

Conversely it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Demon Deacons as they come in having lost seven straight. 

There’s no doubt that this sets up as a “letdown” spot for the visitors, who enter off an emotional 103-94 OT win over rival Miami Florida in their latest action. 

In fact FSU is above .500 for the first time in conference play this year after that victory. Terrance Mann has been a standout over the last two games with 44 points. 

Wake Forest enters off the 96-77 loss to Louisville on Sunday. Guard Bryant Crawford has now hit double digits in nine straight games and had 19 in a losing cause against the Cardinals. 

For me though, this comes one down to which of these two teams is the “hungrier.” While FSU has been playing very well of late, this unfortunately sets up as a natural letdown spot for the team after its big win over its rival in its most recent action. The Demon Deacons on the other hand will be risking life and limb tonight as they try to rebound from their recent stretch of futility.

While I’d obviously not be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Wake Forest.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Louisville (7:00 EST).

The 16-5 Louisville Cardinals are at No. 2 Virginia to take on the 20-1 Cavaliers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Louisville comes in on top form having won five of its last six. The Cardinals are 6-2 in league play, most recently putting together a 96-77 win over Wake Forest on Saturday.

Virginia has won 12 straight, but I think it’ll have its hands full with this determined visiting side.

Louisville comes in averaging 78.5 PPG, while it concedes 68.9. In the win over Wake the Cards would go on to force 20 turnovers, while also shooting 50.7 percent from the floor and finishing 10 of 25 from range. Deng Adei averages 15.6 PPG to lead the team.

Virginia averages just 69 PPG, but it concedes only 52.1. Kyle Guy had 17 points in the win over Duke in the team’s most recent action on the road. Guy leads the nightly charge with 15.2 PPG. 

The Cavs are a great team. But Louisville won’t be rolling over today. The Cardinals are playing their best basketball of the season and they’ve already had some extremely close calls on the road this year, including losing in OT at Clemson in early January. 

While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, all signs point to a comfortable cover for the hungry visitors as they catch the home side complacent after its epic victory last time out. Play on Louisville.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Massachusetts (6:30 EST).

The 17-3 Rhode Island Rams are at UMass to take on the 10-12 Minutemen and while I’m not going to be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do think that the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Rhode Island snuck by Duquesne 61-58 on Saturday, while UMass enters off an 82-69 loss to Fordham on Saturday (I had the Rams in that one.) Note that this is a revenge game for the Minutemen after they fell 73-51 at Rhode Island earlier this month. 

The Rams average 76.6 PPG and they concede 65.8. EC Matthews had 20 points in the win over the Dukes. 

The Minutemen average 69.7 PPG and they concede 71.6. We don’t have to question Massachusetts motivation levels today though, as it comes in having lost four straight. In its latest loss, Luwane Pipkens led the way with 18 points. 

I’ll point out though that Rhode Island is just 11-3 ATS in its last 14 after allowing 60 points or less in its previous contest, while Massachusetts is already 6-4 ATS as an underdog this season.

I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for Rhode Island, while I expect the home side to risk life and limb as it tries to score the upset. In a much tighter than expected battle, let’s grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Denver Nuggets (9:00 EST).

Boston came up just short in a 109-105 setback at Golden State on Saturday, while Denver comes in on top form having won three straight, most recently a 91-89 victory at home over Dallas. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Nuggets after they fell 124-118 in Boston back on December 13th.

Boston averages 102.9 PPG and it concedes 98.5. Kyrie Irving leads the way with 24.8 points and five assists per game, while Al Horford averages 13.4 points, 7.9 boards and 5.2 assists per outing.

Denver averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 105.5. Nikola Jokic averages 16.1points, 10.5 boards and 5.3 assists per game, while Garry Harris leads the nightly charge with 17.3 points. Harris had 24 points, while Jokic had a triple-double with 11 points, 16 boards and 11 assists in the teams most recent win over the Mavs.

I think the Celtics come in flat here on the tail end of their five game Western swing and I look for the surging Nuggets to take full advantage and to put the foot on the gas from start to finish.

A great situational play on Denver.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:30 EST).

The Heat had dropped four of six before getting the better of the Hornets 95-91 at home on Saturday. 

The Mavs come in desperate as they’ve lost three straight and six of their last seven, most recently dropping a tight 91-89 decision in Denver on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Dallas after it fell 113-101 in Miami back on December 22nd. 

The Heat average 100.6 PPG and they concede 101.3. Josh Richardson led Miami with 19 points and five assists in the win over Washington.

Dallas averages 102 PPG and it concedes 103.9. Harrison Barnes leads the nightly charge with 18.4 points and 6.8 boards per game, while rookie Dennis Smith Jr. adds 14.7 points and 4.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Miami is just 8-13 ATS as the favorite this season, while Dallas is 21-15 ATS as the dog. 

Miami comes in off the win, while the Mavs lay everything on the line, desperate to break their slide. I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Timberwolves (7:30 EST).

The Wolves broke a two-game slide with a 111-97 home win over the Nets on Saturday, while the Hawks come into this one having lost three straight, most recently a listless 129-104 setback at home to Washington on Saturday. 

The Wolves averages 109.1 PPG and they concede 105.9. Karl-Anthony Towns averages 20.1 points and 12.2 PPG, while Andrew Wiggins adds 18.2 points and 4.2 boards per night.

Jimmy Butler and Wiggins each had 21 points in the team’s win over Brooklyn.

The Hawks average 103.5 PPG and they concede 108.2. Dennis Schroeder leads the nightly charge with 19.6 points and 6.4 assists per game, while Marco Belinelli adds 11.2 points and 2.1 assists. In the latest loss to Washington ATL allowed the Wizards to shoot 57.6 percent from the floor, including 18 of 32 from range. 

With a tough game North of the border tomorrow night, the Wolves can leave nothing to chance this evening. And that’s the difference maker for me in this one.

I look for a focused and much deeper Minnesota side to comfortably pull away down the stretch as it looks to secure the victory tonight, before the tough matchup tomorrow. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Notre Dame (7:00 EST).

The 13-8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish are at Duke to take on the 18-3 Blue Devils and while I’m not calling for the outright upset, I do definitely believe this one will be a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe once it’s all said and done.

Notre Dame looks to get back on track here after falling 80-75 to Virginia Tech on Saturday, while the Blue Devils also come in off a loss (this one of the heart-wrenching variety), falling 65-63 at home to Virginia.

Note that this is a revenge game for the Irish after the Blue Devils took both meetings last year, including a tight 75-69 battle in the conference tourney.

Notre Dame averages 76.6 PPG and it concedes 65.9. It shot just 39 percent from the floor in the loss to VT last time out though. TJ Gibbs was a bright spot in the setback with 27 points.

Duke averages 90.3 PPG and it concedes 72.3. Duke shot 48 percent from the floor, but it still wasn’t enough in the loss to the Cavs. Marvin Bagley III had 30 points in the losing cause. 

The Irish are getting a lot of points here because they’re injured, but they won’t be going down without a fight after five straight setbacks. Duke is still caught up on its last loss and comes in complacent, leaving the back door open just wide enough for the visitors to sneak in through down the stretch.

Grab the points, play on the Fighting Irish.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Toronto Raptors (6:05 EST).

LA comes in complacent here in my opinion after winning its fourth straight with a 108-103 road victory over the Bulls on Friday.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Raptors, who have lost four of seven, including a listless 97-93 setback to Utah at home on Friday. The revenge factor does come into play for the Lakers after they fell to Toronto 101-92 at home back on October 27th, but because of the Raptors’ overall current form, it’s one of those instances in which it’s negated.

LA averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 109.7. Brandon Ingram averages 15.7 points, while Jordan Clarkson added 14.5 points. Ingram had 25 points, nine boards and five assists in the win over Chicago.

Toronto averages 110.9 PPG and it concedes 103.7. DeMar DeRozan leads the nightly charge with 24.6 points and 6.1 assists per game, while Kyle Lowry adds 16.5 points, 5.9 boards and 6.7 assists per game. 

I’ll point out as well that the Lakers are just 2-4 ATS in their last six trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Toronto is 13-9 ATS against losing clubs this year and 13-9 ATS as well against poor defensive teams which allow 106-plus points per contest.

As mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot for the Lakers, while I expect the Raptors to risk life and limb as they try and secure a convincing victory after their sub-par play of late.

Lay the points, play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE YEAR is on Oakland (2:00 EST).

The 14-8 Oakland Golden Grizzlies are at Wright State to take on the 16-6 Raiders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the surging visiting side.

Oakland has won five straight. Wright State also enters on top form, having gone 9-1 in its last ten.

The Golden Grizzlies’ Kendrick Nunn was named the Horizon League Player of the Week by averaging 35 points, 7.5 board and 2.6 assists last week. Oakland enters off the 83-70 road win over Northern Kentucky on Friday, a game which Nunn poured in 33 points. Jalen Hayes added 21 and seven boards. 

Grant Benzinger had 17 points in Wright State’s 87-55 win over Detroit in the Raiders’ most recent action. Evertt Winchester came off the bench to add 15.

I’ll point out though that Oakland is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Wright State is just 18-24 ATS in its last 42 against teams with winning records and just 4-5 ATS this year in front of the home town crowd. 

I believe Nunn continues his incredible play and helps his team avenge the earlier home loss. Play on Oakland.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on Colorado (8:00 EST).

I base my selections on many different things, but I’m keeping it rather for simple for this particular one.

Colorado comes in off back-to-back losses, most recently falling 80-71 at Arizona (easily covering with the 13 point spread.) The Buffs are 12-9 overall, but just 1-6 on the road.

But I think Colorado comes in “under the radar” here against 15-5 Arizona State (9-2 at home.)

Not surprisingly either, Colorado plays with revenge after falling to ASU 90-81 in OT at home back on January 4th. 

The Sun Devils have looked pretty bad since conference play has started, going just 4-6 in their last ten, including a crushing 80-77 OT loss at Utah in their most recent.

With that setback fresh on their minds, I think the Sun Devils leave the back door open just wide enough for the revenge minded Buffs to sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points, play on Colorado.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Wizards (7:30 EST).

Washington is just 1-3 on its current road trip, most recently falling 121-112 at OKC on Thursday. 

The Hawks come in off a hard-fought battle in Charlotte just last night and suffice it to say, I expect a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

So far these teams have split a pair of games.

Washington averages 106.6 PPG and it concedes 105.6. John Wall leads the nightly charge with 19.4 points and 9.3 assists per game, while Bradley Beal averages 24 points. Beal was a standout in the latest loss to the Thunder with 41 points, 12 boards and seven assists. 

Atlanta averages 103.3 PPG and it concedes 107.5. Dennis Schroeder leads with 20 points and 6.5 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that Washington is already 6-4 ATS this year after allowing 115 points or more in its previous contest, while Atlanta is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the second game of a back-to-back.

I think the “hungrier” and fresher team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on the Wizards.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Orlando Magic (7:00 EST).

Orlando had won two of three, but it came up flat in a 105-99 loss at home to Sacramento on Tuesday. 

The Magic have a golden opportunity to get back on track here though against a Pacers team which laid everything it had on the line in its game in Cleveland last night. 

And to say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement too, as Indiana has taken six straight in the series, including a 121-109 victory in the first meeting this year on November 27th.

Orlando averages 105.1 PPG and it concedes 110.3. Evan Fournier is currently leading the nightly charge with 18.1 points along with Aaron Gordon with 18.3 points and 8.3 boards per game. 

The Pacers average 106.4 PPG and concede 105.2. Victor Oladipo leads the way with 24.1 points, 5.2 boards and 1.98 steals per game. 

I’ll point out though that Orlando is 3-0 ATS in its last three against teams with winning records, while Indiana is just 1-2 ATS in its last three when playing on back-to-back nights.

The Magic have had three whole nights to prepare for this revenge game and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, all signs do indeed point to a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Grab the points, play on Orlando.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Arizona (5:30 EST).

Utah looks poised for a letdown here after its 80-77 OT win over Arizona State on the road in its latest action (I had the Utes in that one), while Arizona will look to build off its 80-71 home win over Colorado (failing to cover the spread though in that one.) 

If recent history is any precedence then the Wildcats have to be liking their chances tonight, because when these teams met earlier in the year, it was Arizona that pulled away for the comfortable 94-82 victory. 

Utah averages 75.3 PPG and it concedes 70.8. Previous to their upset win last time out the Utes had lost four straight. Sedrick Barefield averages 10.9 PPG and he led the attack against the Sun Devils with 18 points.

Arizona averages 82.1 PPG and it concedes 71.4. Allonzo Trier had 23 points in the win over the Buffs, while DeAndre Ayton added 22. 

I’ll point out that Utah has struggled in this spot for bettors, going just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 80 points or more in its previous contest, while Arizona has excelled by going 4-2 ATS in its last six after scoring 80 points or more in its previous outing.

Utah looked great on the road in its last game, but I have a hard time seeing this inconsistent team matching that performance in another tough atmosphere. Look for Arizona to step up and take advantage. Lay the points, play on the Wildcats.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on Fordham (2:00 EST).

The 10-11 Massachusetts Minutemen are at Fordham to take on the 6-14 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

We don’t need to question Fordham’s motivation levels today after losing six straight. UMass can empathize as the Minutemen come in having lost three straight, most recently an 82-72 defeat at La Salle. The Rams enter off a 78-58 loss at home to No. 24 Rhode Island. 

UMass averages 69.8 PPG and it concedes 71.1. In the loss to the Explorers the Minutemen would allow them to shoot 55 percent from the floor, while also getting out rebounded by ten and turning the bowl over 14 times. 

Fordham averages just 61.4 PPG, but it concedes 69. Will Tavares was a bright spot in the loss to Rhode Island with 17 points, while Prekop Slanina added 13 points and five rebounds. 

I’ll point out though that UMass is just just 1-4 ATS in its last five after allowing 80 points or more in its previous contest, while Fordham is 2-1 ATS in its last three after failing to score 60 points in its previous outing.

The Rams’ defense keeps them one in this and helps secure the upset in front of the home town crowd. Play on Fordham.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina (12:00 EST).

The 14-7 NC State Wolfpack are in North Carolina to take on the 16-5 Tar Heels and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

NC State got by Pittsburgh 72-68 on Wednesday, while UNC will be eager to get back on track after falling 80-69 to Virginia Tech on Monday. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Tar Heels have to be loving their chances today because they’d take both meetings last year in blowout fashion, winning 107-56 in the first and 97-73 in the second. 

The Wolfpack come into this one averaging 80.4 PPG, while conceding 72.5. NC State got the win over the Panthers, but it was pretty as they’d shoot just 33.8 percent from the floor. Omer Yurtseven was a standout with 16 points.

The Tar Heels average 82 PPG and they concede 71.7. UNC shot just 42 percent from the floor in the loss to the Hokies, led by Luke Maye with 23 points in the setback.

I’ll point out though that NC State is just 4-17 ATS in its last 21 road games and only 2-10 ATS in its last 12 following a SU win, while UNC is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven following a straight up loss. 

ACC opponents have already shot over 50 percent against the Wolfpack five times this year, which doesn’t bode well facing this re-focused Tar Heels side out redeem itself for their latest sub-par effort. 

NC State has scored just 72 points or less in three out of its last four, which also doesn’t bode well facing a North Carolina team holding opponents to 41.6 percent shooting on the year. 

All signs point to a rout, play on the Tar Heels.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Duquesne (12:00 EST).

The 14-7 Duquesne Dukes are in Rhode Island to take on the 16-3 Rams and while I’m not going to be so bold as to call for an outright upset, all signs do indeed point to a much tighter battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

The Dukes are coming off a 77-73 OT loss to Richmond on Wednesday, while Rhode Island got the better of Fordham 78-58 in its latest action. Note that this is a revenge game for Duquesne after it fell 90-69 in the only meeting last year. 

Duquesne averages 73.9 PPG and it concedes 66.6. The Dukes struggled last time out shooting just 38 percent, but did get a strong game from Eric Williams Jr, who had 25 points in the losing cause.

Rhode Island averages 77.5 PPG and it concedes 66.3. The Rams are now 8-0 in A-10 action and I think the come in a tiny bit complacent here finally and leave the back door open just wide enough for their lowly opponent to sneak in through this afternoon.

I’ll point out as well that Duquesne is 4-2 ATS in its last six after scoring 70 or more points in its previous game in which it also lost in an OT situation, while Rhode Island is just 2-3 ATS in its last five after holding its previous opponent to 60 points or less.

This has one has “trap” written all over it for the Rams, but as mentioned off the top I won’t be calling for the outright upset. Grab as many points as you can, play on Duquesne. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Northern Kentucky (9:00 EST).

Both teams come in hot, but I don’t think that home floor advantage can be overlooked in this particular matchup.

Northern Kentucky is 7-1 in conference play and owns a share of the lead through eight game, while Oakland comes in having won four straight.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Norse have to be loving their chances to keep the momentum rolling, because when these teams met at Oakland back on January 5th, it was Northern Kentucky that pulled away for the 87-83 victory.

The Grizzlies enter off a 92-86 win over Detroit, led by 38 points from Kendrick Nunn. Nunn is averaging 26.5 points, 4.8 boards and 4.2 assists this year. Oakland has been playing well in conference action, but I think the team finally has a letdown here in this tough environment.

Northern Kentucky most recently pulled away for a 77-65 win over Green Bay on Saturday, going 10 of 23 from range and forcing 19 turnovers. The Norse rank among the conference best on both ends of the court (note that opponents have an offensive rebounding percentage of just 23.1, which ranks the team firs tin the Horizon.) 

I’ll point as well that Oakland is just 1-3 ATS already this year off a win against a conference rival and only 4-7 ATS against a team with a winning record, while Northern Kentucky is 9-4 ATS as a favorite and 4-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival.

Nunn has been great, but the Norse are just too deep. The revenge factor gets thrown out the window here as I expect surging Northern Kentucky to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Antonio Spurs (8:30 EST).

The 23-21 Philadelphia 76ers are in San Antonio to take on the 32-18 Spurs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Both teams come in on top form, with the Spurs off wins over the Cavs and Grizzlies, while the 76ers have won four of their last five, most recently a victory over the Bulls on Wednesday. 

This is a revenge game for the Spurs though, who fell in Philadelphia 112-106 on January 3rd. 76ers big man Joel Embiid and rookie Ben Simmons combined for 47 points, 16 boards and eight assists in that victory. 

Pau Gasol had 14 points, 15 board and nine assists in his team’s 108-85 destruction of Memphis on Wednesday. In all, eight players would score in double figures against the Grizzlies, including 15 by Patty Mills off the bench.

I’ll point out that Philadelphia is just 12-15 ATS in its last 27 against good defensive teams which allow 98 points or less per contest, while San Antonio is 3-1 ATS in its last four against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per contest.

The revenge factor can’t be overlooked here. I think Philadelphia stumbles to open its Western swing and San Antonio takes advantage. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Memphis Grizzlies (8:00 EST).

The 23-24 LA Clippers are in Memphis to take on the 17-30 Grizzlies and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

LA comes in off a 113-102 loss to Boston on Wednesday, while Memphis enters off a 108-85 setback to San Antonio in its latest action.

The Clippers have now lost three straight. LA is on the outside of the playoff picture looking in and it’s only 9-13 on the road this season. So far the Clippers average 107.7 PPG, while conceding 107.6. Blake Griffin had 23 points and five boards in the latest defeat. 

Marc Gasol had 18 points and seven boards in the Grizzlies blowout loss to San Antonio. Memphis is 5-5 over its last ten games and it’s just 12-14 on its home floor. So far the Grizzlies average 99.3 PPG and concede 102.2. 

I’ll point out though that LA is already just 2-5 ATS this year off an upset loss as a favorite, while Memphis is 14-11 ATS this season against good offensive teams which average 106-plus points per outing. 

This is a revenge game for Memphis after it fell 113-105 to LA earlier this month. The Grizzlies are dealing with injuries, but so too are the Clippers. Home floor and the revenge factor prove to be too much for LA to overcome tonight.

Play on Memphis.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Cleveland Cavaliers (7:30 EST).

The Cavaliers are desperate for a victory and I believe that focus and determination will ultimately prove to be the difference maker tonight. 

Cleveland started off the season horribly as well, but it made some adjustments and then went on a huge run. With Isaiah Thomas coming into the mix, the chemistry has once again been disrupted and the team is struggling while trying to adjust “on the fly.” 

The recent struggles prompted coach Tyron Lue to make another adjustment to the starting line-up, benching Jae Crowder and electing to start Tristan Thompson, while then moving Kevin Love over to the PF position. I think the “shake-up” is going to work here.

The Pacers average 106.4 PPG and they concede 105.2. Indiana is led by Victor Oladipo, who averages 24.1 points, 5.2 boards and 1.98 steals per game.

The Cavaliers average 109.5 PPG an concede 109.6. LeBron James leads the nightly charge with 26.8 points, 7.9 boards and 8.6 assists per game, while Love adds 18.4 points and 9.4 boards per outing. 

More than anything though this is a big time revenge play for Cleveland, which has dropped all three in the season series with Indiana already this year. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Cavaliers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Utah (9:30 EST).

Utah comes in with considerable momentum and I expect it to get carried over here. Utah has won back-to-back games against the state of Washington.

Arizona State had been scuffling as well, but it’s recovered as well to win three of its last five. 

Utah’s offense has averaged 72 points over its last five games. Most recently the Utes hammered Washington State 82-69 on Sunday, hitting 47.6 percent from the floor overall, including going 13 of 31 from range. 

Arizona State allows 74.8 PPG, but the Sun Devils come in off a solid 81-73 win at Cal, hitting 47.5 percent from the floor and going 10 of 21 from range. Mickey Mitchell came off the bench to post 12 points and grab 11 boards. 

I’ll point out though that Utah is 19-9 ATS in its last 28 off a win against a conference rival, while Arizona State is 0-2 ATS off a win against a conference rival this season.

I think Utah’s much improved offense gives it much more than just a “punchers chance” against this inconsistent Sun Devils unit. While I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, all signs do indeed point to a competitive battle. Grab the points, play on the Utes.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Denver Nuggets.

New York comes in off a 123-112 loss on the road in Golden State on Tuesday, while Denver had dropped six of eight before edging Portland 104-101 at home on Monday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for the Nuggets after they fell 116-110 in The Big Apple back on October 30th

The Knicks average 104.7 PPG and concede 106.1. Kristaps Porzingis averages 23.3 points, 6.7 boards and 2.34 blocks per game, while Enes Kanter contributes 13.6 points and ten boards per night. 

Denver averages 106 PPG and it concedes 105.6. Big man Nikola Jokic averages 16.2 points, 10.4 boards and five assists per game, while Garry Harris leads the way with 17 points per night. Jamal Murray exploded for a career-high 38 points in the win over the Blazers.

I’ll point out that New York is just 10-14 ATS on the road this year and only 1-3 ATS after playing three consecutive road games, while Denver is 5-3 ATS in its last eight when playing with two days rest and 12-10 ATS in front of the home town crowd thus far. 

Porzingis could be sidelined for this one and if he does play, he’s likely not going to be at 100% capacity. Denver is 17-6 at the Pepsi Center and in my opinion, all the pieces are in place for a blowout. Play on the Nuggets.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on Arizona (8:30 EST).

Colorado has been all over the map as far as its game-to-game consistency. The Buffs enter off a 72-62 loss to Washington at home on Saturday, getting 14 points from Tyler Bey, who led five players in double-figures in the setback. 

The Buffs average just 98.7 points per 100 possessions during conference play (which ranks tenth in the Pac 12), but they’ve done well on the defensive end, limiting opponents to 48.6 percent shooting through eight conference games (ranked fourth.)

Arizona comes in off a 73-71 road win over Stanford, it’s fourth straight conference victory. Allonzo Trier led the way in the one with 21 points, while Dusan Rustic added 18 points and nine boards. 

The Wildcats have won 13 of their last 14 and are scoring 111.6 points per 100 possessions during conference play, which ranks third in the Pac 12. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Colorado is 8-17-1 ATS in its last 26 against teams with a winning percentage of above .600, while Arizona is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six home games against a team with a losing road record.

Note that this is a revenge game as well for Arizona, which fell on the road in Colorado on January 6th. 

All the pieces are in place for a home side blowout. Lay the points with confidence, play on the Wildcats.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Purdue (7:00 EST).

The 17-5 Michigan Wolverines are at Purdue to take on the 19-2 Boilermakers are on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the home side.

Michigan hammered Rutgers 62-47 at home on Sunday, while Purdue comes in having won 16 straight, most recently crushing Iowa 87-64 on Saturday. 

Purdue won’t be taking anything for granted here obviously, as the Boilermakers edged the Wolverines 70-69 in Michigan back on January 9th.

The Wolverines average 73.2 PPG and they concede 62.4. Mortiz Wagner led the way for Michigan in the win over Rutgers with 16 points and six boards. 

The Boilermakers average 84.8 PPG and they concede just 62.2. Carsen Edwards had 22 points and eight assists, while Vince Edwards added 19 points and two blocks in the victory over the Hawkeyes. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Michigan is just 1-4 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 0-2 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Purdue is 8-4 ATS this season after scoring 80 points or more and 4-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest. 

The Wolverines poised a threat at home to Purdue, but I think they’ll have a hard time keeping up to the Boilermakers on their own floor. And the stats support that as well. This number could quite easily be a lot larger in my opinion. Great value, play on Purdue.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PAC 12 GAME OF THE MONTH is on Stanford (9:00 EST).

USC has a 6-2 record in Pac 12 play, while the Cardinal are 5-2 in league action.

Stanford will be eager to get back on track here after a tight 73-71 home loss to Arizona on Saturday, blowing a double-digit half time lead. Reid Travis was a stand out in that one with 20 points, while Dorian Pickens added 15. The Cardinal rank among the conference’s best on both ends of the court.

The Trojans come in off back-to-back road wins in the state of Oregon and I think they’re primed for a bit of a mental letdown here in their first game back in front of the home town crowd. USC ranks among the nation’s top offensive teams, but it’s in the bottom third defensively. 

I’ll point out that Stanford is already 2-1 ATS in true road games this year and 9-5 ATS against clubs with winning records, while USC is already 0-2 ATS this season as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range. 

The last time these teams played it was the Cardinal that held on for the one point outright victory. The revenge factor is working in favor of USC, but I still believe that Stanford isn’t getting nearly enough respect. The Cardinal offense gives the visitors much more than just a “punchers chance” in this matchup.

Grab the points, play on Stanford.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Indiana (9:00 EST).

The 12-8 Indiana Hoosiers are in Illinois to take on the 10-11 Fighting Illini on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Illinois continued its slide with a loss to Michigan State on Monday, while Indiana enters having won four of its last five, most recently over Maryland. Juwan Morgan leads the Hoosiers this year with 14.8 points and 7.2 boards per game (also has 26 blocks.) Indiana’s road play has been its “Achilles heel” this season, but here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against.

The Fighting Illini have scored over 75 points in just two of their conference games so far this year and both were OT losses. A continued bright spot for Illinois has been the play of guard Trent Frazier, who has posted double figures in ten of his last 11 games. Sophomore forward Kipper Nichols posted a career-best 27 points off the bench in his team’s latest loss to the Spartans.

I’ll point out that Indiana is 5-1 ATS in its last six against teams with losing records, while Illinois is just 1-4 ATS in its last five in front of the home town crowd.

Despite their poor road record this year, the Hoosiers have been better than advertised this season. Justin Smith has posted 10.2 points and shot 60 percent from the floor over his last five games for Indiana and the Hoosiers lead the conference in turnover margin (plus-4.0.) 

I can’t see the Illini keeping pace down the stretch, play on Indiana.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmakers Error is on the Dallas Mavericks (8:05 EST).

I think the Rockets have a bit of a mental lapse here after winning six of their last seven.

Conversely, the Mavericks won’t be taking anything for granted this evening after they broke a three-game slide with a win over the Wizards in their last outing.

And to say this is a “revenge” game for the Mavs would be a bit of an understatement I think, as the Rockets have taken five straight in the series.

Houston most recently got the better of Miami 99-90 on Monday, going 15 of 37 from range. James Harden led the way in the victory with 28 points. Note though that Harden had five assists to six turnovers.

Dallas is not in the playoff picture currently, but it’s still fighting, most recently thrashing the Wizards 98-75. The Mavs would go on to shoot 44.2 percent collectively, while also holding a 52-45 edge on the glass. Harrison Barnes leads the team in scoring and he had 20 points and ten boards in the latest victory. 

I’ll point out as well that Houston is already just 7-10 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU victories and only 4-7 ATS in its last 11 after allowing 90 points or less in its previous outing, while Dallas is already 20-13 ATS as an underdog this year, 8-2 ATS against the division and 19-9 ATS against clubs with winning records.

Harden is back from a recent injury, but still not firing on all cylinders. Dallas has looked a lot better on both ends of the court and I think that momentum gets carried over here. Clearly an outright upset is not out of the question, but in the end I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Dallas.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the New Orleans Pelicans (7:05 EST).

New Orleans comes to Charlotte off a 132-128 double OT win over Chicago, while the Hornets enter off a 112-107 victory at home over Sacramento on Monday. 

The Pelicans average 111.2 PPG and they concede 110.9. Anthony Davis leads the team with 26.7 points, 10.5 boards and 2.05 blocks per game, while fellow big DeMarcus Cousins averages 25.6 points, 12.9 boards and 5.2 assists per game. 

The Hornets average 105.8 PPG and concede 105.8 as well. Kemba Walker leads the team with 21.8 points and 5.9 assists per game, while Dwight Howard adds 15.5 points and 12.6 boards per outing.

I’ll point out though that New Orleans has done extremely well in this spot for bettors, going 14-10 ATS already on the road this year, 11-8 ATS in non-conference games and interestingly 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 130 points or more in its previous outing, while Charlotte has struggled in this position by going just 11-14 ATS at home this season and only 9-11 ATS in non-conference contests.

The Hornets are sitting in 11th in the East, so despite playing better of late, I still think New Orleans has the advantage here. The Pelicans have won five of seven and are two games ahead of the Clippers in the West standings. 

The added off-court drama of Walker likely being moved before the trade dead line won’t help the home side tonight either. 

Play on New Orleans.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Richmond (7:00 EST).

The 6-13 Richmond Spiders are at Duquesne to take on the 14-6 Dukes and in my opinion, this one is a lot more even than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

The Spiders enter off an 81-74 home win over LaSalle, while the Dukes come in off a 95-89 OT victory over George Mason on Saturday. 

Richmond averages 68.1 PPG and it concedes 73.8. Despite their poor overall record, the Spiders are now 4-3 in A-10 action after hitting 50 percent against the Explorers, including 8 of 16 from range. Grant Golden led the way in that one with 18 points and eight boards. 

The Dukes come in off the win over George Mason, getting 34 points from Eric Williams Jr. Mike Lewis II added 20. Duquesne barely got by La Salle a couple of weeks ago, needing triple OT to eventually pull away for the 101-94 victory. Duquesne averages 74 PPG and it concedes 66. 

I’ll point out as well that Richmond is already 2-1 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Duquesne is just 6-7 ATS in its last 13 in the same position.

Don’t let the overall numbers for these teams fool you, as Richmond had a tough non-conference schedule. The Spiders’ stats have normalized in league play and I think they matchup extremely well here. 

While I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by the outright upset, I will in the end recommend that you grab as many points as you can. Play on Richmond.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Boston Celtics (10:35 EST).

Boston comes in off a third straight loss, falling 103-95 at home to Orlando on Sunday. Clearly the C’s are going to be looking to start their Western road swing off on the “right foot.”

And with a game at Golden State on the weekend, the visitors can’t take anything for granted tonight either or risk enduring their worst slide of the season. 

But if recent history is any precedence, then Boston has to be liking its chances today, because when these teams met back on November 8th, it was the Celtics which pulled away for the comfortable 107-96 victory. 

Boston comes in averaging 102.6 PPG and it concedes 98. Kyrie Irving leads the nightly charge with 24.5 points, five assists and 1.18 steals per game. 

The Lakers average 106.6 PPG and concede 109.9. Lonzo Ball averages 10.2 points, 7.1 boards and 7.1 assists per game, while Brandon Ingram adds 15.7 points.

I’ll point out though that Boston is already 6-3 ATS this year off an upset loss as a favorite and 14-6 ATS against good offensive teams which average 106 plus points per game, while LA is just 21-23 ATS in its last 44 off an upset win as an underdog. 

Boston can’t be happy and it’s looking for a breakout performance. The Lakers have been playing better lately, but definitely look poised for a letdown here. Everything points to a rout, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on Wake Forest (9:00 EST).

Duke looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion after winning four straight, most recently an 81-54 beatdown at home of Pittsburgh on Saturday.

Conversely it’s going to be “all hands on deck” for Wake Forest as it comes in having lost five straight, most recently a 59-49 setback at home to No. 2 Virginia this past Saturday (failing to cover the 8.5 point spread by a single bucket.) 

The Blue Devils average 92.1 PPG and concede 72.8. Marvin Bagley III leads the nightly charge with 21.9 points and 11.5 boards per game.

The Demon Deacons average 74.5 PPG and concede 73.2. Wake actually had a two point lead on the Cavaliers in their latest loss at half time, but the Deacons would eventually succumb to Virginia’s smothering defense. Bryand Crawford was a standout in the setback with 11 points and four assists.

Wake is desperate to break the slide, while Duke comes in a tiny bit complacent. When you add it all up, this spread is just a little high in my opinion. 

Grab the points, play on Wake Forest.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on TCU (9:00 EST).

WVU comes in off an 86-51 home win over Texas to move to 5-2 in Big 12 play, while TCU will be eager to get back on track after a tight 73-68 road loss in K-State to move to 2-5 in league action.

The Mountaineers average 81.5 PPG and they concede 64.9. In the win over Texas, Jevon Carter led the way with 22 points, while James Bolen added 19.

The Horned Frogs average 87.5 PPG and they concede 77.6. In the loss to the Wildcats, Vladimir Brodziansky posted 15 points, while Alex Robinson contributed 13. 

I’ll point out though that WVU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 60 points or less in its previous contest, while TCU is 3-1 ATS this year already off a loss against a conference rival.

I think the “hungrier” home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night and as mentioned off the top, all signs do indeed point to a letdown finally here from the Mountaineers.

Play on TCU.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Utah (8:00 EST).

The 9-9 Washington State Cougars are in Utah to take on the 11-7 Utes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cougars come into this one in a “tail spin,” having lost five of their last six, most recently falling at Colorado on Thursday.

The Utes can empathize, they had lost four straight, but have to be feeling much more confident tonight after beating Washington earlier in the week.

Since opening the season 6-0, Washington State has gone 3-9 since, most recently falling 82-73 at Colorado. Carter Skaggs and Viont’e Daniels combined for 35 points in the setback.

The Utes looked good defensively in their latest victory (70-62 over the Huskies): “We have a defensive plan, and we’re able to guard people,” Utah senior forward David Collette assessed Friday. “It’s just a matter of effort…but we’ve been missing that. Everyone just has to find it in themselves to give that effort.” Justin Bibbins led the way in the latest win with 20 points. 

I’ll point out that Washington State is just 4-6 ATS as an underdog this year and only 1-5 ATS in its last six after allowing 80 points or more, while Utah is 5-2 ATS as a favorite this season and 4-2 ATS in front of the home town crowd.

Utah is 7-2 SU at home this year, while Washington State is 0-5 in true road games thus far. 

The Utes won’t be taking anything for granted here after their latest victory, as they entered on a four-game losing streak. The Cougars are hungry as well, but they face a very stiff test against this energized Utah defense. 

I expect the home side to comfortably pull away down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on the Minnesota Vikings (6:40 EST).

The 14-3 Minnesota Vikings are in Philadelphia to take on the 14-3 Eagles in the NFC Conference Championship on Sunday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive “shootout” written all over it.

These are a couple of the league’s best defensive clubs, but I think this one will comfortably sneak over this lower-number once it’s all said and done.

Minnesota comes in off a 29-24 home win over New Orleans on a last second TD, while Philadelphia got the better of Atlanta 15-10 last Saturday. 

The Vikes managed the big win last week, but their vaunted defense looked pretty horrible in allowing 24 second half points. In the end Minnesota allowed 358 yards. 

Minnesota QB Case Keenum had 318 yards, one TD and one INT last week, while Stefon Diggs would go on to catch the 61 yard TD reception as time ran off the clock. 

The Vikings come into the Conference Championship game averaging 23.9 PPG, while conceding 15.8. 

Nick Foles is under center for the home side after starter Carson Wentz was lost to injury late in the regular season. Foles was an efficient 23 of 30 for 246 yards, no TD’s and no INT’s last week. 

The Eagles average 28.6 PPG, while conceding 18.4. Jay Ajayi had 54 yards on 15 carries last Saturday. Philadelphia looked sharp defensively, but I think it’ll have its hands full with Minnesota’s balanced attack.

I’ll point out as well that the Vikings have excelled in this spot for bettors, going 3-1 ATS in their last four after scoring 29 or more points in their previous outing, while conversely this has been one area in which the Eagles have struggled in, going just 1-2 ATS in their last three after holding their previous opponent to ten points or less.

I look for the Vikes to take this one back home and to be the first team in history to host a Super Bowl. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the LA Lakers (3:35 EST).

New York looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion after its big 117-115 road win over Utah on Friday. 

Conversely, I expect the hungry Lakers to build off their recent 99-86 home win over Indiana, a victory which snapped a two-game slide. 

To say this is a “revenge” game would be a bit of an understatement as well, as New York has taken six of the last seven in the series, including a 113-109 OT effort at home back on December 12th.

The Knicks come into this one averaging 104.5 PPG and conceding 105.3. Kristaps Porzingis leads the nightly charge with 23.5 points, 6.8 boards and 2.38 blocks per night, while Enes Kanter adds 13.5 points and 9.9 boards per outing. 

LA averages 106.1 PPG and it concedes 110. Brook Lopez averages 11.6 points and 3.9 boards per game. Lonzo Ball adds 10.2 points, 7.1 boards and 7.1 assists per game. 

I’ll point out though that New York is just 5-7 ATS already this year off an upset win as an underdog and 0-2 ATS after playing three consecutive road games, while LA is 6-1 ATS this season after a win by ten points or more and 2-0 ATS after allowing 90 points or less.

I like this hungry home side to avenge the OT setback in The Big Apple and I expect New York to once again return to mediocrity after its latest road victory.

Play on the Lakers.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on the New England Patriots (3:05 EST).

The 11-6 Jacksonville Jaguars are in New England to take on the 14-3 Patriots and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Jacksonville comes into this one completely “gassed” in my opinion after its epic 45-42 road win in Pittsburgh on Sunday. 

New England will look to take advantage after it annihilated Tennessee 35-14 last Saturday. 

The Jaguars average 26.1 PPG and they concede just 16.8. Jacksonville is No. 1 against the pass, but clearly the unit faces its stiffest test of the year in frigid New England and up against the NFL’s greatest passer of all time (arguably anyways.)

Leonard Fournette had a big day last week, posting 109 rushing yards, while Blake Bortles had 214 passing yards and one TD.

The Pats average 26.8 PPG and they concede just 18.5. Tom Brady had 337 yards, three TD’s and no INT’s last week. Brady owns a 66/31 TD/INT in 36 career playoff games.  

I’ll point out that Jacksonville is just 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 30 or more points in its previous game, while New England is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 following a straight-up victory over more than 14 points.

The Jags come in off a horrific defensive performance against a veteran QB, which clearly doesn’t bode well having to face Brady on his own field. 

As mentioned off the top, I think the Jaguars come in “flat footed” after last week’s “marathon,” while I expect it to just be “just another day at the office” for Brady and company.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry