At 6:40 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Rams (324) minus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (323) in the NFC Conference Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (14-5) won their fifth game in their last six with their 30-27 upset win at Tampa Bay as a 2.5-point underdog on Sunday. San Francisco (12-7) won their fourth straight game with their 13-10 upset victory at Green Bay as a 6-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS MINUS THE POINTS: This is just a very tough set of circumstances for the 49ers. To advance to the Super Bowl, they have to pull off their fourth straight upset while playing their fourth straight game on the road. While I appreciate that the Niners are a veteran team that runs the ball and plays stout defense — two skill sets that tend to travel — the wear and tear of all that travel is bound to take a toll on San Francisco. They have a ceiling in their passing game with Jimmy Garoppolo, who had the opportunity to win a Super Bowl a few seasons ago if he could successfully execute Kyle Shanahan’s plays in the fourth quarter against Kansas City. Garoppolo only passed for 130 yards with no touchdown passes and an interception against the Packers last week — and the 49ers have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after not passing for more than 150 yards in their last game. They have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after covering the point spread in three straight games. And while the Niners have not allowed more than 27 combined points in the playoffs, they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 17 combined points in their last two games. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 home games when favored by seven points or less. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games at home with the Total in the 45.5 to 49 point range. Additionally. the Rams have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams from the NFC — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in the playoffs.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has lost their last six games against San Francisco after following up their 31-10 loss on the road to the Niners on November 15th with their 27-24 loss in overtime at home in the final week of the regular season on January 9th. The Rams have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games when attempting to avenge a same-season loss. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Los Angeles Rams (324) minus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (323). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Kansas City Chiefs (322) minus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (321) in the AFC Conference Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Kansas City (14-5) won their 11th game in their last 12 contests with their 42-36 victory in overtime against Buffalo as a 2.5-point favorite on Sunday. Cincinnati (12-7) won their fifth game in their last six contests with their 19-16 upset win at Tennessee as a 4-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHIEFS MINUS THE POINTS: Kansas City’s ability to survive their instant-classic with the Bills should only embolden them to reach the Super Bowl for the third straight season. They should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a straight-up win. And while they have covered the point spread in both their playoff games as a favorite this postseason, they have then covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after covering their last two games as the favorite. The Chiefs did surrender 422 yards to Josh Allen and the Bills — but they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. Kansas City has a significant experience edge with this team playing in their fourth straight AFC Championship Game. It starts with Patrick Mahomes who owns an 8-2 record in the postseason with his two lone losses being to Tom Brady. In his eight playoff games at home, Mahomes is 7-1 with 23 touchdown passes, just one interception, and a Passer Rating of 120.5. In the playoffs this year, Mahomes is completing 76% of his passes for 782 yards with 10 touchdown passes and one interception in his two games. The early-season problems he was encountering with two-high safety looks are long gone. The emergence of two dangerous counter options to Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill have helped. In the last five games, wide receiver Byron Pringle had 24 receptions from 33 targets for 232 yards with five touchdowns. Running back Jerick McKinnon has 33 touches for 220 yards in the two playoff games. And Mahomes brings two additional important intangibles to these playoff games. First, he is more likely to do damage with his legs. He ran the ball seven times for 69 yards against the Bills. In his ten playoff games, he has 52 rush attempts with a 5.8 Yards-Per-Carry average with five touchdowns — as opposed to the 3.8 rush attempts he averages per game in the regular season with only eight touchdowns in those 63 games. Second, Mahomes protects the football. He has thrown only one interception in his last 192 pass attempts. In his postseason career, he throws an interception once in every 77 throws and he has never fumbled. Kansas City hosts this game at Arrowhead Stadium where they will enjoy a significant home-field edge with a very loud crowd disrupting Joe Burrow. The Chiefs have covered the point spread in 6 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games when favored by 7.5 to 14 points. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 playoff games at home. Cincinnati is happy to be in this position — but they might impact their sense of urgency. The Bengals have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset win. I love Burrow — but they beat a flat Titans team last week that was the lowest-rated number one or two seed according to the DVOA metrics at Football Outsiders. Cincinnati only outgained their opponents in the regular season by +5.1 net Yards-Per-Game. On the road, the Bengals are getting outgained by -18.1 net YPG despite playing only two playoff teams away from home in the regular season (and they got outgained last week to the Titans). Burrow was sacked nine times against the Titans with head coach Zac Taylor failing to change schemes to offer him more short or intermediate routes (or a screen pass!) rather than condemning him to yet another coverage sack. Cincinnati does not have a good offensive line. And I think the Chiefs’ have a significant advantage with Andy Reid along with his coordinators Eric Bienemy and Steve Spagnuolo. The Bengals are an organization that is 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games in the playoffs.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas City will not take this Bengals team lightly after getting upset by them in Cincinnati on January 2nd by a 34-31 score as a 3.5-point underdog. The Chiefs blew a 14-point lead in that game while committing 10 penalties and too many mental errors in that game. Mahomes has won four of his five opportunities in the playoffs to avenge a regular-season loss to their opponent — and Kansas City has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games when avenging an upset loss. 25* AFC Game of the Year with the Kansas City Chiefs (322) minus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (321). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Kansas City Chiefs (318) minus the point(s) versus the Buffalo Bills (317) in their AFC Divisional playoff game. THE SITUATION: Kansas City (13-5) has won ten of their last eleven games after their 42-21 victory against Pittsburgh last Sunday as an 11-point favorite. Buffalo (12-6) is on a five-game winning streak after their 47-17 win against New England as a 4.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHIEFS MINUS THE POINTS: After an early-season slide where they lost four of their six games, this Kansas City team was driven to redeem themselves from losing in last year’s Super Bowl are clicking on all cylinders now. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Chiefs have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Kansas City seized the better record over the Bills in the regular season which allows them to host this crucial showdown. Patrick Mahomes has won six of his seven starts at home at Arrowhead Stadium while averaging 310.3 passing Yards-Per-Game. He has thrown 20 touchdown passes to just one interception in his seven home playoff games while posting a 120.1 Passer Rating. Head coach Andy Reid will give him the green light to run the ball more given the winner-takes-all stakes of this game. The Chiefs’ defense has been tough at home as well as they hold their opponents to 17.9 Points-Per-Game and just 337.6 total Yards-Per-Game. Kansas City has covered the point spread in 5 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 playoff games at home. The Chiefs have also found themselves yet another weapon on offense with the emergence of running back Jerick McKinnon. The former Vikings and Niners player had 18 touches for 143 yards from scrimmage against the Steelers last week while giving Mahomes a nice weapon in the screen passing game. Kansas City has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when favored — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. The Chiefs have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record. Buffalo propped up their stats with some blowout wins (mostly against lesser opponents) this season. But they lost all five of their games decided by one-scoring possession — one of the biggest reasons why I side with Mahomes versus Josh Allen tonight. The Bills are just 1-3-2 ATS in their last 7 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. And while they enjoyed a +2 net turnover margin last week against the Patriots, they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after posting a +2 or better net turnover margin in their last game. But now they go on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 road games after winning at least four games in a row. And while Buffalo has covered the point spread in four of their last five games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 road games after covering the point spread in four of their last five games.

FINAL TAKE: This is a rematch of the Bills’ 38-20 upset victory in Kansas City on October 10th as a 2.5-point underdog. The Chiefs left many points on the field with many mental miscues and a few bad bounces that ruined drives. KC was also missing defensive stars Chris Jones and Charvarius Ward to injury in that game — and they had yet to acquire Melvin Ingram from Pittsburgh. After adding Ingram to their defensive line, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo moved Jones back to his preferred inside position on the line — and the defense immediately improved. The Chiefs have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing with revenge from an upset loss. 25* NFL Divisional Playoff Game of the Year with the Kansas City Chiefs (318) minus the point(s) versus the Buffalo Bills (317). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (316) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (315) in their NFC Divisional playoff game. THE SITUATION: Tampa Bay (14-4) has won four in a row and eight of their last nine with their 31-15 victory against Philadelphia as a 7.5-point favorite on Sunday. Los Angeles (13-5) won their sixth game in their last seven with their 34-11 victory against Arizona as a 3-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCCANEERS MINUS THE POINTS: Tampa Bay should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win. And while their game with the Eagles finished just Under the 47.5 point total, they have then covered the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after playing a game that finished Under the Total in their last game. The Buccaneers get to host this game at Raymond James Stadium where they are 8-1 this season with a +16.1 net point differential. They score 33.0 Points-Per-Game and average 409.8 total Yards-Per-Game at home while holding their opponents to just 16.9 PPG and 328.9 total YPG. Tampa Bay has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Furthermore, the Buccaneers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when favored. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a win by 14 or more points. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. And in their last 9 games after winning at least five or six of their last seven contests, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of these games. The Rams will be without left tackle Andrew Whitworth for this game which will put pressure on Matthew Stafford without the All-Pro protecting his blindside. Los Angeles goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 road games with the Total set in the 45.5-49 range. Interestingly, the Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on grass.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and Tampa Bay has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. 10* NFL Sunday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (316) minus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (315). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Green Bay Packers (304) minus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (303) in their NFC Divisional playoff series. THE SITUATION: Green Bay (13-4) takes the field again after their 37-30 upset loss at Detroit as a 4-point favorite to close out their regular season on January 9th. San Francisco (11-7) won their third straight game and fifth of their last six contests with their 23-17 upset win at Dallas as a 3.5-point underdog in the wild card playoff round last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACKERS MINUS THE POINTS: Even assuming that Jimmy Garoppolo is close to full strength with his nagging thumb and shoulder injuries that have kept him questionable to play all week, this is a very challenging set of circumstances for the 49ers. They have pulled off two straight upset victories in must-win circumstances after reaching the playoffs in Week 18 with their underdog win in Los Angeles against the Rams. This is the third straight game on the road for the Niners — and that is a ton of air travel for a team that has flown back home after their last two wins. Now San Francisco travels across the country east for the second straight week — albeit on a short six-day week as well. As it is, the 49ers have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after playing at least two straight games on the road. And while San Francisco has covered the point spread in three straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after covering the point spread in two straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in their only three games in the last three seasons under head coach Kyle Shanahan when they had covered the point spread three games in a row. I do worry about an even 100% Garoppolo if asked to keep up with Aaron Rodgers tonight. How will he perform in weather conditions in the single digits and probably below zero with the wind chill? He struggles when put off script — he is completing just 54% of his passes in the second half in playoff games when off script with a low Passer Rating of 49 in those situations. Green Bay is rested and ready for the challenge — and they should be feisty after getting upset by the Lions. Granted, head coach Matt LaFleur rested starters in the second half of that game — but the Packers went into halftime trailing by a 17-13 score despite Rodgers playing the entire first half. Green Bay has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 6 straight games after getting upset in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last contest. The Packers get some reinforcements back on defense with linebacker Za’Darius Smith and Whitney Mercilus and cornerback Jaire Alexander all expected to return to action tonight. The offensive line also gets starters David Bakhtiari, Billy Turner, and Josh Myers back from injury. Rodgers will not mind the frigid temperatures — he has a 29-1 record straight-up when the temperature is no higher than 32 degrees. Against playoff teams this season, Green Bay has a 5-0 record with Rodgers throwing 10 touchdown passes with only one interception. The Packers are 8-0 at home in Lambeau Field this season with a +15.8 net point differential. Rodgers has 20 touchdown passes and just one interception in those games with the offense scoring 30.6 PPG. The Green Bay defense has held their opponents to just 16.8 PPG. The Packers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Green Bay has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 playoff games at home.

FINAL TAKE: Dealing with the physical style of play that the 49ers bring to the table under Shanahan had been a problem for the Packers — highlighted by their 37-20 loss in the playoffs two years ago when they gave up 285 rushing yards. But that game was in San Francisco — and Green Bay has won both meetings with the Niners since including a 30-28 victory back at Levi’s Stadium on September 26th. The 49ers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when motivated by revenge. 25* NFL Saturday Night Television Game of the Year with the Green Bay Packers (304) minus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (303). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Cincinnati Bengals (301) plus the points versus the Tennessee Titans (302) in their AFC Divisional Round playoff game. THE SITUATION: Cincinnati (11-7) advanced from the AFC Wild Card playoffs with their 26-19 win against Las Vegas as a 6-point favorite last Saturday. Tennessee (12-5) returns to action after their 28-25 victory at Houston as an 11-point favorite on January 9th in their final regular-season game.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BENGALS PLUS THE POINTS: Cincinnati should continue to build off the momentum they have built late in the season. The Bengals have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread victory. And while they allowed 385 yards to the Raiders last week, they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. Second-year quarterback Joe Burrow has passed for 525, 446, and then 244 yards last week in his last three starts (he did not play in the Bengals’ final regular-season game against Cleveland). He has 10 touchdown passes and no interceptions in these last three starts — and completed at least 70.6% of his passes with at least a 110.4 Passer Rating in each of those three games. Burrow may have the best trip of wide receivers in the NFL with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd of the Bengals. Cincinnati has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games on the road as an underdog. The Bengals have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record. Tennessee is on a three-game winning streak — but they were almost upset for the second time this season by the lowly Texans in their narrow three-point win to end the regular season. The Titans have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. Tennessee only outgained their opponents by +12.7 net Yards-Per-Game. Their record was propped up by a 6-2 record in games decided by one possession. The analytics do not look at this team well. Not only do the DVOA metrics at Football Outsiders consider the Titans the weakest top seed in the conference playoffs ever, but they also rank below all previous AFC or NFC playoff second seeds.

FINAL TAKE: I do take DVOA with a grain or two of salt. That metric does not attempt to incorporate Time of Possession finding it either too not relevant or difficult to measure its impact accurately. That is a problem when attempting to assess the value of a running team like Tennessee. And the Titans have not been at full strength on offense for most of the season. But Julio Jones has largely been a disappointment even when on the field this season — and there sure seems to be an assumption that running back Derrick Henry can simply flip the switch and immediately return to midseason form. I am skeptical he can be that good. I know that the Titans are 8-0 straight and ATS when head coach Mike Vrabel has at least eight days to prepare. But the Bengals have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games in the second half of the season against teams with a winning record. I’m siding on Burrow as an underdog against Tannehill. 10* NFL Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Cincinnati Bengals (301) plus the points versus the Tennessee Titans (302). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Arizona Cardinals (151) plus the points versus the Los Angles Rams (152) in their NFC wild card playoff game. THE SITUATION: Arizona (11-6) has lost four of their last five games after their 38-30 upset loss to Seattle as a 5-point underdog on Sunday. Los Angeles (12-5) had their five-game winning streak snapped with their 27-24 upset loss at home to San Francisco as a 3.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINALS PLUS THE POINTS: Arizona took a step back in the second half of the season with five losses in their last eight games after an 8-1 start. I thought the Cardinals were overvalued after that fast start (and I am not the biggest Kliff Kingsbury fan) — but they are bit undervalued in this spot. Arizona was hit hard by injuries in the second half of the season including playing three games with quarterback Kyler Murray. The loss of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has hurt the offensive significantly — but it does look like defensive end J.J. Watt will be available to play some snaps tonight. The decline on defense corresponded to Watt’s shoulder injury. The pressure appears to be off this team — and that makes them dangerous. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. The Cardinals defense should play better after allowing the Seahawks (emboldened in the role of the spoiler in what Pete Carroll described as their “Super Bowl”) to generate 431 yards with a 7.70 Yards-Per-Play average. Arizona has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games on the road after allowing at least 400 yards in their last game. And in their last 38 games after allowing their last opponent to average at least 7.0 YPP, they  have covered the point spread in 27 of these contests. The Cardinals played their best football on the road where they were 8-1 with an average winning margin of +10.8 net Points-Per-Game. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph’s unit holds their home hosts to just 18.9 Points-Per-Game and 319.0 total YPG. They are 18-6-2 ATS in their last 26 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games with the Total set at 45.5 or higher. They have also covered the point spread in 6 straight road games as the underdog. Furthermore, Arizona is 19-7-2 ATS in their last 28 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Cardinals had a 5-2 record against the playoff teams — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of these 7 games. Los Angeles only won twice in their seven games against playoff teams — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of those 7 games against playoff teams. The Rams took a 17-3 lead into the first half last week against the 49ers before getting outscored by a 24-7 margin in the second half. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after taking a two-touchdown lead or more in the first half of their last game. The Rams have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after winning five or six of their last seven games. Despite pundits wanting to believe in the high-ceiling of this LA All-Star team, there are significant flaws. Matthew Stafford has demonstrated that perhaps he was not an innocent victim during his time playing for the Detroit Lions after committing nine turnovers in the last four games. He has thrown four pick-sixes this season — yet head coach Sean McVay continues to call plays that put his new shiny toy at quarterback in the best position to succeed. Stafford struggles against pressure up the middle — and that is an area where the return of Watt could make a big difference. The season-ending injury to Robert Woods has played a role in Stafford’s inconsistent play in the second half of the season. He has thrown 11 interceptions in since Week 10 — and his Yards-Per-Attempt in the passing game has dropped a full yard to 7.6 YPA over that span. While Stafford was lighting up the league with a Passer Rating of 111.6 in the first nine weeks of the year, he only had a Passer Rating of 93.7 in the final nine weeks. A decline of the running game has not helped with Darrell Henderson going on Injured Reserve. Los Angeles has only ran for 73 and 64 yards in their last two games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games after not rushing for more than 75 yards in two straight games. The defense has underperformed expectations as well. They allowed 449 yards to San Francisco last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. They stay at home where, as Stafford’s wife will attest, they will not necessarily have a vociferous crowd advantage. Arizona fans will travel as Niners fans did last week. The Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 playoff games at home. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Arizona upset the Rams in LA in the first meeting on October 3rd by a 37-20 score. Los Angeles won the rematch on December 13th in Glendale by a 30-23 score as a 3-point favorite. The Cardinals have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 32 games when playing on the road motivated to avenge a loss to their opponent. 25* NFL Wild Card Playoff Game of the Year with the Arizona Cardinals (151) plus the points versus the Los Angles Rams (152). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Kansas City Chiefs (150) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (149) and in their AFC wild card playoff game. THE SITUATION: Kansas City (12-5) won their ninth game in their last ten in a 28-24 win at Denver as an 11-point favorite on Saturday. Pittsburgh (9-7-1) has won two games in a row to sneak into the playoffs after their 16-13 victory in overtime at Baltimore as a 3-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHIEFS MINUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh seemed resigned that their season was over after they upset the Ravens last week — but the Colts getting upset by the Houston Texans changed their playoff odds dramatically. Now Big Ben Roethlisberger and this Steelers’ team is playing with proverbial house money — but the casinos on the strip also give away “house money” for a reason. As it is, Pittsburgh has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after an upset win. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and the have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a point spread victory. And in their last 5 games after not allowing more than 15 points in their last game, the Steelers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of these games. Pittsburgh lost five of their seven games against teams who made the playoffs — and they failed to cover the point spread in 5 of those 7 games. They got outscored in the regular season by -3.2 net Points-Per-Game — and they were outgained by -45.7 net Yards-Per-Game. The Steelers are also just 2-6-2 ATS in their last 10 playoff games — and they are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games in the Wild Card round. Kansas City has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a win against an AFC West rival - and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win. The Chiefs have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games at home with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Kansas City has won six of their nine games against playoff teams this season — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against these playoff teams.

FINAL TAKE: Pittsburgh will be looking to avenge a 36-10 loss in Kansas City on December 26th when they were 10-point underdogs. The Steelers are 2-3 ATS in their last 5 opportunities to avenge a same-season loss — so I am not assigning them much value on that front. The Chiefs have an extra day of rest to prepare for this game — and I expect the game script where Kansas City takes a lead and Roethlisberger will need to rally his team with his arm will produce the events where the double-digit point spread is covered. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Kansas City Chiefs (150) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (149). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Dallas Cowboys (148) minus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (147). THE SITUATION: Dallas (12-5) enters the postseason having won four of their last five games after their 51-26 win at Philadelphia as a 6.5-point favorite last Saturday. San Francisco (10-7) has won two in a row and seven of their last nine contests after their 27-24 upset win at Los Angeles against the Rams as a 3.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COWBOYS MINUS THE POINTS: Dallas should build off the momentum they continued last week in their easy victory against an undermanned Eagles team. The Cowboys have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a point spread win. Dallas has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored. The Cowboys earned the right to host this game where they are outscoring their opponents by +14.3 net Points-Per-Game. The 49ers may be 6-3 on the road — but Dallas has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games against NFC opponents. Dak Prescott has his offense clicking right now as they averaged 424.4 total Yards-Per-Game in their last three games — and they Cowboys have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after averaging at least 400 Yards-Per-Game over their last three games. Prescott gives Dallas a significant advantage at quarterback in this game. He has thrown 13 touchdown passes without an interception in his last four starts. The 49ers primarily play cover-3 zone defenses — and Prescott has generated 30 explosive passing plays against zone defenses this season. Furthermore, Prescott has completed 97 of 174 passes for 1357 yards with 17 touchdown passes and just three interceptions against Cover-3 this year. His Passer-Rating of 106.4 against Cover-3 is the fourth best mark this season for all quarterbacks with a minimum of 100 pass attempts. Then there is Jimmy Garoppolo who continues to demonstrate a ceiling to his potential at quarterback. His 10 interceptions he has thrown out of play-action this season have been infuriating. And Jimmy G simply lacks a credible vertical threat for the 49ers. In his 33 passes of more than 20 yards in the air, he has completed 11 of them for 392 yards with three touchdowns but three interceptions. His Passer Rating of 71.8 on passes of 20 or more air yards ranks 28th in the league. Just as importantly when it comes to dictating defensive schemes. Garoppolo only throws it 20 or more yards in the air in 7.8% of his attempts. That number is tied with Tau Tagavailoa and just ahead of Andy Dalton and Daniel Jones in a neighborhood that does not smell of deep playoff run. Garoppolo did completed 23 of 32 passes for 316 yards last week against the Rams while leading the Niners offense to 449 total yards. But San Francisco has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after passing for at least 300 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after gaining at least 400 yards in their last game.

At 8:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the New England Patriots (143) plus the points versus the Buffalo Bills (144) in their AFC wild card playoff game. THE SITUATION: New England (10-7) has lost three of their last four games after a 33-24 upset loss at Miami as a 6-point favorite last Sunday. Buffalo (11-6) won their fourth straight game with their 27-10 win against the New York Jets as a 16-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PATRIOTS PLUS THE POINTS: The Bills enter the postseason feeling very good about themselves after holding the hapless Jets to just 53 total yards of offense. But Buffalo has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by 14 or more points — and they are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games after a point spread win. The Bills have also failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games after winning at least four games in a row. But the pressure is on this team and quarterback Josh Allen to reach the AFC Conference Championship Game — at least. Allen enjoyed his nest postseason last year — but remember that those games were played without packed stadiums. The weight of expectations could become heavy on Allen especially with this being a home game. In that respect, facing off against the Patriots in this opening round for the third time this season might very well be the worst-case scenario for this franchise. The Patriots’ defense was tough to score against especially on the road they allowed only 16.0 PPG and 284.1 total YPG. Bill Belichick has had great success in frustrating Allen in his career. Allen completes only 57.1% of his passes against New England in his career while averaging just 215.9 passing YPG and a QBR of 82.7. Allen has not been great in his career in cold weather despite his college experience at Wyoming and his strong arm. His career completion percentage of 62.3% drops to 50.3% in his five games played in below-freezing temperatures. He averages only 166.6 passing YPG in those games with six touchdown passes and seven interceptions. Belichick should have the Patriots ready to play in this game. The Patriots have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 31 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game. New England is a tough opponent in the playoffs under Belichick — they have covered the points spread in 10 of their last 14 postseason games including four of their last five playoff games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: While it will not be as windy as the first game between these teams in Buffalo, it will be colder with temperatures dropping into the single digits. Belichick out-coached Sean McDermott in that game — it is hard to match his big-game experience when dealing with the elements like what will be experienced tonight. The Patriots have a situational edge with Belichick calling the shots — expect him to channel the Bill Parcels philosophy of letting the other guy start making coaching mistakes. New England has covered the point spread in 33 of their last 50 games when avenging a loss. The Patriots have also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 17 trips to Buffalo. 10* NFL Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the New England Patriots (143) plus the points versus the Buffalo Bills (144). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:35 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Cincinnati Bengals (142) minus the points versus the Las Vegas Raiders (141) in their AFC wild card playoff game. THE SITUATION: Cincinnati (10-7) had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 21-16 loss at Cleveland as a 6.5-point underdog on Sunday. Las Vegas (10-7) won their fourth game in a row with their 35-32 upset victory in overtime against the Los Angeles Chargers as a 3-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BENGALS MINUS THE POINTS: Las Vegas benefited from Chargers’ head coach Brandon Staley misreading analytics by taking silly chances like going for it on 4th-and-2 on their own 18-yard line to pull the upset last week. Coaching mistakes like that helped the Raiders overcome getting outgained by 94 net yards — but a +2 net turnover margin helped even that game as well. The result had a feel of Las Vegas winning their Super Bowl by giving the home fans their first taste of the playoffs since the club moved from Oakland — made all the sweeter given all the turmoil this team has encountered this season starting with the removal of Jon Gruden as their head coach. An emotional letdown is likely — especially for a team that has pulled off three straight upset wins to reach the playoffs. All four of their games during their current winning streak were decided by just a field goal — and they have benefited from a 7-2 record in games decided by one scoring possession including a 4-0 mark in games that went to overtime. In other words, the Raiders are a few breaks going against them from being an 8-9 (or worse) football team. There were outscored by -3.8 Points-Per-Game this season — and they were outscored by -4.1 PPG when playing on the road. And on the road this teams goes under very challenging circumstances coming from a long overtime game on Sunday Night Football to the opening playoff context on Saturday afternoon — and they have to travel across the country to boot! As it is, Las Vegas has failed to cover the point spread in 24 of their last 31 games after an upset win as a home underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 13 games after upsetting a divisional rival as a home underdog. The Raiders have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a close win by three points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game. Las Vegas has also failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games after covering the point spread in each of their last three games. They go on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 road games after winning four or five of their last six games. Weather will be a factor with temperates expected to drop below freezing with a chance of snow. Quarterback Derek Carr has played five games when the temperature was under at 37 degrees or less: he lost all five games with the Raiders never scoring more than 17 points. Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow grew up in Ohio — so he is used to the cold weather. Burrow comes into this game rested after the Bengals clinched home field in the opening round of the playoffs two weeks ago. Their team dominated by second-stringers still were competitive against the Browns — and Cincinnati has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win. The Bengals have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss. Additionally, Cincinnati has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: These teams played in Las Vegas on November 21st when the Bengals scored 19 points in the fourth quarter to pull away with a 32-13 victory. The Raiders have failed to cover the point spread in 40 of their last 61 when avenging a loss where they allowed at least 28 points — including six of these last nine circumstances. 25* AFC Wild Card Playoff Game of the Year with the Cincinnati Bengals (142) minus the points versus the Las Vegas Raiders (141). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (287) minus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (288) in the College Football National Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Georgia (13-1) reached the National Championship Game with their 34-11 victory against Michigan in the CFP Semifinals as a 7.5-point favorite on December 31st. Alabama (13-1) joined them in the Finals by winning their eighth game in a row with their 27-7 victory against Cincinnati as a 12.5-point favorite on the last day of 2021. This game will be played on a neutral field at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Georgia dominated a stout Wolverines team — they went into the locker room with a 27-3 lead. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 27 of their last 40 games on the road after scoring at least 24 points in the first half in their last game. Georgia has one of the best defenses in college football in years — they held their opponents to just 9.6 Points-Per-Game and 259.4 total Yards-Per-Game this season. But the exciting dynamic for Bulldogs’ fans is the continued development of their offense with Stetson Bennett under center. The senior quarterback torched an outstanding Michigan defense by completing 20 of 30 passes for 313 yards with three touchdown passes and no interceptions. He has improved to become much more than a game manager. In his last two games against Alabama and Michigan — two of the best defenses in the nation — Bennett has completed 49 of 78 passes for 653 yards and a robust 8.37 Yards-Per-Attempt average. He has six touchdown passes in those two games — and he adds a threat with his legs by running for 43 yards in those contests. It helps Bennett to have a loaded wide receiver corps bolstered by the return of junior George Pickens who missed most of the season after tearing his ACL in the spring. The Bulldogs are tough to beat when they have a strong offensive attack that comes close to matching their elite defense from season to season. Georgia has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game — and they have covered the point spread 22 of their last 32 games on the road after passing for at least 350 yards in their last contest. The X-factor for this Bulldogs’ team is having fourth-year junior J.T. Daniels as an option if Georgia falls behind early once again in this rematch of the SEC Championship Game. The former five-star USC recruit is a gunslinger who led the Bulldogs to a 4-0 record in his four starts last year with the team scoring 37.3 PPG. Daniels unlocks the big-play potential of this offense with his strong arm. Head coach Kirby Smart has been reluctant to turn to Daniels since it would throw fuel on the fire of a quarterback controversy — but that concern goes out the window in the final game of the season. Georgia has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. They have covered the point spread in all 5 of their games this season with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. And in their last 15 games played on a neutral field when favored, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 11 of these games. It is telling that the bookies installed Georgia as the small favorite. Outside the Sagarin Power Ratings (one I don’t pay much attention to, for what that is worth), most of the various power ranking systems conclude that the Bulldogs should be favored (by at least three points). While that does not mean everything to me, it does mean something. Alabama has probably played their best two games of the season in their last two in beating Georgia in the SEC Championship Game and then overwhelming Cincinnati. Do these two games represent the continued growth and development of this team under head coach Nick Saban? Sure, I give credit to Saban for having his team peaking at the right time. On other hand, college football teams tend to not play their best three games consecutively — so I do expect a performance that comes back down to the season-long numbers that the Crimson Tide demonstrated (that the power rankings systems are evaluating in listing them as a dog now). This Alabama team that survived close scares against LSU, Arkansas, Auburn, and Florida (and who lost to a backup quarterback leading Texas A&M) may not be able to help themselves from suffering a letdown. As it is, the Crimson Tide has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a win by at least 21 points. They raced out to a 17-3 halftime lead against the Bearcats — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after holding their last opponent to no more than three points in the first half of their last game. Alabama dominated Cincinnati in the ground game by rushing for 301 yards and outgaining them by +227 net rushing yards. But the Crimson Tide have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after outrushing their last opponent by at least +125 net yards. Alabama dominated the Bearcats by outgaining them by +264 net yards — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +175 net yards. The Crimson Tide has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games in January (when they tend to be overvalued by the betting public) — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 appearances in the National Championship Game. Alabama has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games played on a neutral field as an underdog of three points or less.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia will have an extra edge on their mind in wanting revenge from their 41-21 upset loss as a 6-point favorite in the SEC Championship Game on December 4th. Remember, the Bulldogs did not need to win that game — so some of their best plays and concepts (especially on defense) were held back in case of this rematch. Alabama had to leave everything on the table in that game. Georgia has covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 road games when avenging an upset loss to their opponent. 25* College Football Game of the Year with the Georgia Bulldogs (287) minus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (288). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Chargers (481) minus the points versus the Las Vegas Raiders (482). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (9-7) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 34-13 win against Denver as an 8.5-point favorite on Sunday. Las Vegas (9-7) is on a three-game winning streak after their 23-20 upset win at Indianapolis as an 8.5-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHARGERS MINUS THE POINTS: The Raiders come off two straight upset wins after they beat Denver at home by a 17-13 score as a 1-point underdog two weeks ago. Las Vegas has benefited from some favorable opponent quarterback situations during their winning streak. They beat a Cleveland Browns team ravaged by COVID three weeks ago who had to resort to three-stringer Nick Mullens at quarterback. They faced Broncos’ backup quarterback Drew Lock two weeks ago — and they then got Carson Wentz not at 100% last week after the unvaccinated quarterback returned from his inevitable case of COVID. The Raiders have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win by three points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 25 games after a narrow win by a field goal or less on the road. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning at least two games in a row. Las Vegas got outgained in yardage by the Colts, 362-326. The Raiders have been fortunate with a 6-2 record in games decided by one scoring possession. They are getting outscored by -4.2 Points-Per-Game on the season. They only managed to rush for 85 yards last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after not rushing for more than 90 yards in their last game. Las Vegas has not been an effective team on offense — especially after Jon Gruden was let go by the franchise. The Raiders rank 25th in Third Down Percentage and 29th in Red Zone Scoring. They expect to play tight end Darren Waller and running back Josh Jacobs who are both listed as questionable — but it remains a question how effective they can be playing through their injuries. Las Vegas is scoring only 18.7 Points-Per-Game and averaging 332.0 total Yards-Per-Game in their last three games — and they have scored more than 17 points just twice in their last eight games. They are 4-4 at home despite getting outscored by -4.4 PPG. The Raiders have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Los Angeles has scored at least 28 points in five straight games. Since Week 11, the Chargers lead the NFL in total offense and rank second in scoring. They are scoring 30.3 PPG and averaging 395.3 total YPG in their last three games. Second-year quarterback Justin Herbert leads the NFL in third-down effectiveness — and that includes Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against AFC West opponents — and they are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 games in January. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against the Raiders.

FINAL TAKE: Las Vegas wants to avenge a 28-14 loss to the Chargers in Los Angeles on October 4th — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 29 games when playing with revenge from a loss by at least 14 points. 25* NFL Sunday Night Football Game of the Year with the Los Angeles Chargers (481) minus the points versus the Las Vegas Raiders (482). Best of luck for us  — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Baltimore Ravens (472) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (471). THE SITUATION: Baltimore (8-8) is on a five-game losing streak after their 20-19 loss to the Los Angeles Rams as a 7-point underdog on Sunday. Pittsburgh (8-7-1) has won two of their last three games after their 26-14 upset win against Cleveland as a 1-point underdog on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAVENS MINUS THE POINTS: Both of these teams have slim playoff hopes still alive — the winner of this game needs Indianapolis to get upset by Jacksonville as a two-touchdown underdog. That is not likely to happen, of course. And it sure looked like the Steelers put everything into their Monday night win against the Browns in what was Ben Roethlisberger’s likely last game at home in Heinz Field. An emotional letdown appears imminent. As it is, Pittsburgh has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after a point spread win. Additionally, the Steelers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Pittsburgh is just 2-5 on the road with an average losing margin of -9.6 Points-Per-Game. They allow their home hosts to score 29.6 PPG and generate 398.0 total Yards-Per-Game. I have little doubt that head coach John Harbaugh will have his team ready to play. The Ravens want to end their losing streak — and they would love to end Roethlisberger’s career with a loss. Baltimore has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. It will be Tyler Huntley under center with Lamar Jackson still nursing his ankle injury. The backup has played well in Jackson’s absence — he has completed 67.5% of his 162 passes with 955 passing yards and another 222 rushing yards on a 6.3 Yards-Per-Carry average in six games. Baltimore is 5-3 at home this season — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games. The Ravens have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. And they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games in January.

FINAL TAKE: Pittsburgh won the first game between these two teams by a  20-19 score as a 4-point underdog on December 5th. Baltimore has covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 opportunities to avenge a same-season loss. 25* AFC North Game of the Year with the Baltimore Ravens (472) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (471). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Dallas Cowboys (469) minus the points versus the Philadelphia Eagles (470). THE SITUATION: Dallas (11-5) had their four-game winning streak snapped with their 25-22 upset loss at home to Arizona as a 6.5-point favorite last Sunday. Philadelphia (9-7) is on a four-game winning streak after their 20-16 win at Washington as a 6.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COWBOYS MINUS THE POINTS: Injuries and COVID plays a defining role in this game — but it is Philadelphia that is impacted more heavily. The Eagles have 11 players on the COVID list. Running back Miles Sanders is out with a hand injury — and Philly may only have rookie Kenneth Gainwell healthy and available in their backfield tonight. Right tackle Lane Johnson is dealing with a knee - and Jalen Hurts is less than 100% with an ankle injury. Given that Philadelphia has already clinched a wildcard spot in the NFC playoffs but they cannot secure a home game next week and have little idea who they will be playing, rookie head coach Nick Sirianni may opt to rest key players including Hurts. As it is, the Eagles have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning two games in a row. And while Philadelphia has only allowed 26 combined points in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after not allowing more than 17 points in two straight games. This is the 4th time this season that the Eagles are playing at home as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of those games. Dallas has some COVID issues themselves most notably with rookie sensation Micah Parsons out for this game. Running back Tony Pollard is questionable with a foot injury — and Ezekiel Elliott has been saddled with a knee injury for much of the season. Wide receiver Michael Gallup is out the season with a torn ACL. But Dallas still has quarterback Dan Prescott along with wide receivers Cee Dee Lamb and Amari Cooper. And the Cowboys have plenty to play for despite having clinched the NFC East title when ensures them no worse than the fourth seed. Losses by Tampa Bay and the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday would put the Cowboys in the position to take the second seed in the NFC playoffs — so head coach Mike McCarthy needs to play for the win tonight. Dallas has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight road games when they are favored. Furthermore, the Cowboys have covered the point spread in 29 of their last 43 road games when favored by 3.5 to 7 points — including seven of these last nine occasions. Dallas has covered the point spread in 8 of their 11 games this season when favored in the 3.5 to 9.5 point range. And in their last 5 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range, the Cowboys have covered the point spread all 5 times.

FINAL TAKE: Dallas has covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games against NFC East opponents — and Philadelphia is 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games against divisional rivals. The Cowboys have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against the Eagles in Philadelphia. 10* NFL Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Dallas Cowboys (469) minus the points versus the Philadelphia Eagles (470). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Steelers (132) minus the points versus the Cleveland Browns (131). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (7-7-1) has lost two of their last three games after their 36-10 loss at Kansas City as a 10.5-point underdog last Sunday. Cleveland (7-8) has lost three of their last four games after their 24-22 loss at Green Bay as a 7.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE STEELERS MINUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh still has a narrow path to make the playoffs — but the chances are remote so the weight of playoff expectations are not likely to be heavy. Instead, tonight’s game is being viewed as Big Ben Roethlisberger’s final game at home at Heinz Field. It should be a wild and emotional night for the fans and the team that will want to send out the future Hall of Fame a winner. Roethlisberger loves playing against his childhood team. Big Ben has a 24-2-1 against the Browns in his career with 42 touchdown passes and just 22 interceptions. He has a career Passer Rating of 94.2 against the Browns. Even better, the Steelers have a perfect 14-0 record at home against Cleveland under head coach Mike Tomlin. They should play well tonight after getting handled by the Chiefs last week. Pittsburgh has covered the point speed in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a loss by at least 21 points. The Steelers fell behind early and went into halftime with a 23-0 score — but they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after trailing by at least 14 points at halftime of their last game. Pittsburgh had a -2 net turnover margin in that game as well — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a game where they had a -2 or worse net turnover margin. The Steelers should also play better defense — they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after allowing at least 35 points in their last game. Pittsburgh does get back T.J. Watt back on defense — and they have a 7-2 straight up record this season when Watt plays at least 60% of the snaps on defense. The Steelers are 5-2 at home this year — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored at home by up to three points. Cleveland may be flat after getting eliminated from the playoff race after yesterday’s results. As it is, the Browns have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after a loss on the road. And while Cleveland has covered the point spread in two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after covering two of their last three games. The Browns stay on the road where they are just 2-5 this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games on the road with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in the last two weeks of the season. They are also just 11-28-1 ATS in their last 40 games against AFC North opponents.

FINAL TAKE: Cleveland will be motivated to avenge a 15-10 loss at home to Pittsburgh on October 31st. The Browns have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with same-season revenge — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road when avenging a loss where they did not score more than 14 points. 25* NFL Monday Night Football Game of the Month with the Pittsburgh Steelers (132) minus the points versus the Cleveland Browns (131). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Minnesota Vikings (129) plus the points versus the Green Bay Packers (130). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (7-8) had their two-game winning streak snapped last week with their 30-23 loss to the Los Angeles Rams as a 3.5-point underdog last Sunday. Green Bay (12-3) is on a four-game winning streak with their 24-22 victory against Cleveland as a 7.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE VIKINGS PLUS THE POINTS: It has been a mystifying season for Minnesota with all eight of their losses decided by one-scoring margin — and they have held a lead at one in each of those games. But the Vikings have been consistently resilient under head coach Mike Zimmer. Minnesota has covered the point spread in 43 of their last 62 games after a straight-up loss. The Vikings will have to rely on backup Sean Mannion at quarterback with Kirk Cousins out after a positive COVID test. Minnesota is going to rely heavily on running back Dalvin Cook who was removed from the COVID list and will play tonight — but he will be running against a Packers run defense that ranks second-to-last in the NFL by allowing opposing rushers to average 4.8 yards-per-carry. The Vikings have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Despite enjoying a +4 net turnover margin at home last week against the Browns, the Packers only managed to gain 311 yards in their narrow victory against a Cleveland team hit hard by COVID. Aaron Rodgers completed 24 of 34 passes but for only 202 yards. Green Bay needs to tighten up on defense after allowing the Browns to gain 408 total yards in that game. They seized an early lead and took a 21-12 advantage into halftime before only scoring a field goal in the second half. The Packers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after winning their last game as a favorite but failing to cover the point spread as a favorite. And while Green Bay will be motivated to avenge their 34-31 loss at Minnesota where they were a 1-point favorite, they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when avenging an upset loss to their opponent.

FINAL TAKE: Head coach Mike Zimmer has had success slowing Rodgers down in his coaching career. Zimmer has led Minnesota to a 6-4-1 record against the Packers in his last 11 games as head coach of the Vikings. Getting 13 or so points in a divisional rivalry is a ton -- especially for this talented Minnesota roster that plays everybody close. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Minnesota Vikings (129) plus the points versus the Green Bay Packers (130). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:45 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Baylor Bears (283) plus the points versus the Mississippi Rebels (284) in the Sugar Bowl. THE SITUATION: Baylor (11-2) won their fourth straight game with their 21-16 upset victory as a 7-point underdog against Oklahoma State in the Big 12 Championship Game on December 4th. Mississippi (10-2) is on a four-game winning streak with seven victories in their last eight game with their 31-21 upset win at Mississippi State as a 2.5-point underdog on November 25th in the Egg Bowl. This game is being played on a neutral field at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Baylor should build off their momentum in this game as they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a straight-up win. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after pulling off an upset win as a 7-point underdog against a Big 12 rival. The Bears have relied on redshirt freshman Blake Shapen at quarterback in the last two games due to the hamstring injury suffered by incumbent starter Gerry Bohanon. But while Shapen is dealing with a shoulder injury now, Bohanan is expected to play which gives Baylor more of a running threat under center as well as the quarterback who engineered their upsets of Oklahoma and Kansas State in November along with Iowa State in October. Led by head coach Dave Aranda, Baylor allows only 19.2 PPG — and that number drops to 17.8 PPG they allowed in their six games played away from home. The Bears have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games as an underdog. Baylor has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field. Mississippi got outgained by Mississippi State five weeks ago by a 420-88 yardage margin while losing the first down battle, 30-23. They won that game by thwarting the Bulldogs in the red zone. The Rebels have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after a double-digit win as a road underdog. Ole Miss has won all four of their games in their winning streak by double-digits — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning two in a row by 10 or more points against conference rivals. The Rebels have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last games played after a bye week.

FINAL TAKE: Baylor has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games in expected close games where they are listed in the +/- 3-point range. 10* CFB Saturday Night Discounted Deal with the Baylor Bears (283) plus the points versus the Mississippi Rebels (284). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (280) plus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (279) in the Citrus Bowl. THE SITUATION: Iowa (10-3) looks to bounce-back from their 42-3 loss to Michigan in the Big Ten Conference Championship Game as an 11.5-point underdog on December 4th. Kentucky (9-3) is on a three-game winning streak after their 52-21 upset victory at Louisville as a 3-point underdog on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES PLUS THE POINTS: Iowa will have something to prove to get the bad taste out of their mouth from the ugly loss to the Wolverines four weeks ago. The Hawkeyes have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by at least 35 points to a Big Ten rival in their last game. Iowa is also 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. The Hawkeyes should respond with a strong effort on defense after not allowing more than 27 points all season before the Big Ten Championship Game. Iowa ranks 12th in the nation in Expected Points Allowed Per Play — and they only allowed 19.2 Points-Per-Game this season. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams outside the Big Ten — and they are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games as an underdog. The Hawkeyes thrive when they force turnovers — they had a +22 net turnover margin to begin the season which fueled their 6-0 start. They forced multiple turnovers in eight games and ended the season with a +14 net turnover margin. They now face a Wildcats team prone to turning the ball over. Kentucky has a -13 net turnover margin after playing five games where they turned the ball over at least three times. The Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 24 games after pulling off an upset as a road underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after an upset victory by at least 14 points. Kentucky overwhelmed Louisville by controlling the clock for 35:04 minutes and generating 29 first downs. But the Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 27 games after playing a game where they had at least 24 first downs and were on offense for at least 34 minutes. Kentucky has scored 108 points in their last two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 42 points in two straight contests. They will be without their second wideout target in Josh Ali who is out with an injury. But the Wildcats pass defense is vulnerable as they rank 110th in Pass Success Rate.

FINAL TAKE: Kentucky has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field as a favorite. Iowa has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 21 bowl games under head coach Kirk Ferentz. 10* CFB Kentucky-Iowa ABC-TV Special with the Iowa Hawkeyes (280) plus the points versus the Kentucky Wildcats (279). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Penn State Nittany Lions (276) plus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (275) in the Outback Bowl. THE SITUATION: Penn State (7-5) has dropped two of their last three games after their 30-27 upset loss at Michigan State as a 3.5-point favorite on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay.

REASONS TO TAKE THE NITTANY LIONS PLUS THE POINTS: Penn State is dealing with a handful of opt-outs on both sides of the ball — but this bowl game is the first opportunity for head coach James Franklin to begin working for next season after being on the shortlist for several of the high-profile head coaching jobs last month. This will be a motivated team, particularly on defense with new defensive coordinator Manny Diaz already coaching his first game after he was let go as the Miami (FL) head coach. Franklin recruits well — the cupboard is not bare despite the opt-outs. And this is a team that lost four games by one scoring possession including a four-point loss to Michigan and a field goal loss at Iowa. The Nittany Lions also endured a heartbreaking loss to Illinois in nine overtimes — so this could easily be a nine or ten-win team. They should play well this afternoon as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. And while they have only covered the point spread once in their last three games, they have then covered the point spread in 7 straight games after failing to cover the point spread twice in their last three games. Penn State only gained 61 yards on the ground against the Spartans — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to rush for at least 75 yards in their last game. Franklin will have the best quarterback on the field in this game in junior Sean Clifford who completed 23 of 34 throws for 313 yards with three touchdown passes and no interceptions against Michigan State. He has blossomed this season under first-year offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich with 20 Big Time Throws which were more than what he had accomplished in his previous two seasons as the Penn State starting quarterback. It is the defense that is the stronger unit for this team. The Nittany Lions ranked fifth in the nation by allowing just 16.8 Points-Per-Game — they are in the top-38 nationally in both run and pass defense. Arkansas is just 6-17-1 ATS in their last 24 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. The Razorbacks are dealing with several opt-outs as well including their top wide receiver Treylon Burks and defensive lineman Tre Williams who is in trouble with Johnny Law after getting arrested for DUI. The loss of Burks is troublesome since no other wide receiver on the team had more than 33 targets this season. Arkansas does lean heavily on the run as they ran the ball 64% of the time this season — but they will be facing a stout Penn State defense that holds opposing rushers to just 3.5 Yards-Per-Carry. The Razorbacks have allowed their last three opponents to 431.7 total Yards-Per-Game. Arkansas is just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: Arkansas is 5-11-2 ATS in their last 18 games against non-conference opponents — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored on a neutral field. Penn State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field — and they are 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games against non-conference opponents. 10* CFB Arkansas-Penn State ESPN Special with the Penn State Nittany Lions (276) plus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (275). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (269) minus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (270) in the College Football Semifinals. THE SITUATION: Georgia (12-1) looks to rebound from their 41-24 upset loss to Alabama as a 6-point favorite in the SEC Championship Game on December 4th. Michigan (12-1) won their fifth straight game with their 42-3 victory against Iowa as an 11.5-point favorite in the Big Ten Championship Game on December 4th. This game will be played on a neutral field at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Georgia did not need to beat the Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship since their spot in the college football playoff was assured with their undefeated record at the time. Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs coaching staff likely saved some of their tricks for the playoffs and a possible rematch with Alabama in a potential National Championship Game. The 17-point loss with the defense surrendering 536 total yards should have ensured that Smart had a captive audience in practice in preparation for this game. Georgia has covered the point spread in 20 of their last 27 games after a point spread loss. The encouraging aspect of that setback was the play of quarterback Stetson Bennett who completed 29 of 48 passes for 340 yards with three touchdown passes against the Alabama defense. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Georgia had not allowed more than 17 points in all of their games this season before facing off against the Crimson Tide in SEC Championship Game. The Crimson Tide only averaged 4.4 Yards-Per-Carry in their rushing attack — but they shellshocked the Bulldogs’ defense behind the arm of quarterback Bryce Young who completed 26 of 44 passes for 421 yards with three touchdown passes and no interceptions. Only two other opponents passed for more than 214 yards against them this season. I do not see Michigan quarterback Cade McNamara being able to approach those numbers that won Young the Heisman Trophy. McNamara is a game-manager who did not attempt more than 17 passes in a game until the Wolverines’ fifth game in October — and that was influenced by the Wolverines’ inability to run the football at Wisconsin. Michigan has thrown the ball more than 38 times twice this season. They want to ground-and-pound — but good luck doing that against the Georgia defense that ranks third in the nation by allowing only 81.7 rushing yards per game — and held opposing rushers to just 2.6 Yards-Per-Carry. The Bulldogs’ defensive line is huge — they average a height of 6’4 with a weight of 307 points. The Wolverines want to run inside-zone blocking plays — but Georgia thrives when thwarting that approach. Georgia only allowed one team to gain more than 127 rushing yards this season — and that was a Florida team that lost 34-7 to the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs held eight of their opponents to under 10 points — and they shut out three teams. Alabama only managed 115 rushing yards which were the most Georgia had allowed in four games. Michigan offense slows down significantly if they cannot get their ground game going. They averaged only 2.6 YPC against Wisconsin but benefitted from three early turnovers to take control of that game. They only averaged 3.5 YPC against Penn State in a tense 21-17 victory in Happy Valley. They managed only 112 rushing yards from 38 carries for a 2.94 YPC average against Rutgers in a 20-13 win against a 5-7 Scarlet Knights team.

FINAL TAKE: The Wolverines have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in December — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field as an underdog. Georgia has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in December — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games played on a neutral field when favored. 10* CFB Friday Night Discounted Deal with the Georgia Bulldogs (269) minus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (270). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Cincinnati Bearcats (273) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (274) in the Cotton Bowl college football playoff semifinals. THE SITUATION: Cincinnati (13-0) remained undefeated this season with their 35-20 victory against Houston in the American Athletic Conference Championship Game as a 10.5-point favorite on December 4th. Alabama (12-1) won their seventh straight game with a 41-24 victory against Georgia in the SEC Championship Game as a 6-point underdog on December 4th. This game will be played on a neutral field at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARCATS PLUS THE POINTS: Alabama played the best game of their season to overwhelm the Bulldogs and secure their spot in the playoffs. Even with Nick Saban having four weeks to prepare for this game, a letdown is likely. The Crimson Tide is staring at a Group of Five opponent — even after Saban warning them how good this Bearcats team is. As it is, Alabama has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. And while they raced out to a 24-17 halftime lead, Alabama has then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 24 points in the first half of their last game. Generating a +2 net turnover edge in that game played a big role — but the Tide have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after enjoying a +2 or better net turnover advantage. This remains a team that was just 5-5 ATS against teams playing in bowl games this season. Besides losing to a multi-loss Texas A&M team using a backup quarterback, they survived one-possession games against LSU, Arkansas, Florida and a four-overtime affair with Auburn. Incidentally, they were laying at least 14.5 points as the favorite in all those games. Up until this point, this year’s incarnation is not as dominant as Saban’s National Championship group last season. The offensive line has been given up too many sacks — Bama ranks 67th in Sack Rate allowed and that drops to 75th on passing downs. The running back room is depleted with injures. Drives stall inside the 10-yard line given their ranking 66th in the nation in Goal-to-Go scoring rate. And there are some tough injuries on both sides of the ball with starting cornerback Josh Jobe out with a foot injury and wide receiver John Metchie out the season with the torn ACL he suffered against Georgia. Alabama may not have a reliable second option at receiver (even with all the young talent) to compliment Ohio State transfer Jameson Williams. Cincinnati is loaded with talent in their secondary — headlined by three future NFL players in cornerbacks Ahmad Gardner and Coby Bryant along with safety Bryan Cook. This gives defensive coordinator Mike Tressel some intriguing matchup options. Tressel is one of the best in the business with an established track record as the defensive coordinator at Michigan State. He can do some things to make sophomore quarterback Bryce Young uncomfortable. Cincinnati has momentum with three straight point spread covers after their comfortable victory against a talented Cougars team. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after covering the point spread in two straight games. Despite being on offense for only 19:41 minutes, they averaged 8.89 Yards-Per-Play to generate 400 yards of offense against Houston — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after averaging at least 7.25 YPP. They held the Cougars to just 86 rushing yards in that game as well — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after not allowing at least 100 rushing yards in their last game. The defense allows only 16.1 PPG. They are led by a four-year starting quarterback in Desmond Ridder who will be drafted into the NFL. The Bearcats have covered the point spread in 6 straight games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games as an underdog. And in their last 6 games against non-conference opponents, they have covered the point spread in 5 of these games.

FINAL TAKE: Cincinnati has proven they can match the physicality of elite programs in their 24-13 victory against Notre Dame this season and their 3-point loss to Georgia in the Peach Bowl last year. The Bearcats might have upset the Bulldogs last year if not for the first half injury to left tackle James Hudson — they surrendered six sacks in the second half. The Fighting Irish have only lost twice in South Bend in the last four seasons — to Georgia and this Cincinnati team. The Bearcats will not be intimidated. 25* CFB Game of the Month with the Cincinnati Bearcats (273) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (274). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Arizona State Sun Devils (261) plus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (262) in the Las Vegas Bowl. THE SITUATION: Arizona State (8-4) won their third game in their last four games after their 38-15 win against Arizona as a 20-point favorite on November 27th. Wisconsin (8-4) had their seven-game winning streak snapped in a 23-13 upset loss at Minnesota as a 7-point favorite on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SUN DEVILS PLUS THE POINTS: There has been a COVID outbreak with the Badgers team — and I still cannot get credible information regarding the extent of this situation. So, it is prudent to assume that key Wisconsin is not impacted (and so I am not upgrading the rating of this play). Regardless of that, this is a letdown spot for the Badgers after they blew their golden opportunity to play for a Big Ten championship if they would have just taken care of business against the Golden Gophers. Motivation is a question in a second-tier bowl game. As it is, Wisconsin has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss on the road. The Badgers have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a double-digit upset loss as a road favorite. Scoring has been a persistent problem for this team as they averaged only 25.8 Points-Per-Game this season. They scored no more than 20 points five times. Sophomore quarterback Graham Mertz was supposed to raise the level of play on offense for this program as their most decorated incoming recruit at quarterback two years ago — prompting Jack Coan to transfer to Notre Dame. But Wisconsin ranks 116th in the nation in Pass Success Rate and 123rd in the nation in Pass Explosiveness. The Badgers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring no more than 20 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to score at least 14 points in their last game. The laptops have loved Wisconsin all season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when laying 3.5 to 10 points as the favorite. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field as a favorite. Arizona State had high expectations this season but was a disappointment with four losses. The down point of the year was two nightmare halves of football where they were outscored by Utah and Washington State by a 56-7 margin. But a bowl game offers this team an opportunity to make some amends to underachieving relative to their preseason hype. They should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after a double-digit win against a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after winning two of their last three games. They have opt-outs at running back, wide receiver, and in their back-seven on defense. Those were all positions that were considered areas of depth going back to August — so this game offers opportunities to those players who did not get as much playing time as they hoped. Head coach Herm Edwards is recruiting well for this program. They are led by a third-year starting quarterback in Jayden Daniels — and he is supported by an offensive line that led the nation in Line Yards and helped them rank seventh in the nation in Rush Success Rate. The Sun Devils have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games with the Total set at 42 or less — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games against teams from the Big Ten.

FINAL TAKE: Arizona State has been shaky as a favorite — but they are 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games as an underdog. Wisconsin has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games against teams with a winning record. 10* CFB Thursday Late Show Bailout with the Arizona State Sun Devils (261) plus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (262). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (259) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (260) in the Peach Bowl. THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (11-2) is on a five-game winning streak after their 45-21 victory against Wake Forest as a 3.5-point favorite in the ACC Championship Game on December 4th. Michigan State (10-2) won their second game in their last three games with their 30-27 upset win against Penn State as a 3.5-point underdog on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS PLUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh opened as a 4.5-point favorite before the news that quarterback Kenny Pickett would forego this game to prepare for the NFL draft. The Spartans are now laying about 3.5 points in most locations — and they will be without their top offensive player in running back Kenneth Walker who is opting out of this game to prepare for the NFL draft. So, is the value of Pickett worth 8 points plus the loss of Walker? I like Pickett — but I don’t think so. Let’s talk Pitt. They have a capable backup in redshirt junior Nick Patti who has been Pickett’s backup for three seasons. Patti completed 23 of 37 passes substituting for Pickett in September of his freshman year against Delaware in 2017 for 271 yards with two touchdown passes. Patti has completed 12 of 14 passes for 140 yards this season. In his career, Patti has completed 40 of 62 passes for a 64.5% completion percentage, a 10.0 Yards-Per-Attempt mark, and only one interception. A key tell regarding how Pitt feels about him was on a fourth-and-one in the second half against Virginia when Pickett had to leave the field because of a short-term injury. Rather than kick a field goal or dial up a running play, offensive coordinator Mark Whipple trusted Patti to deliver a pass — and he drew a pass interference penalty for the first down. Patti has practiced with the first-team offense preparing for this game — and that includes Biletnikoff Award winner Jordan Addison who caught 93 balls for 1479 yards and 17 touchdowns. Patti should have success against a Spartans defense that ranked 106th in Pass Success Rate Allowed. Pitt has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a win by 17 or more points. The Panthers have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. And while they held the Demon Deacons to just 295 yards on a just 3.47 Yards-Per-Play — and they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 3.75 Yards-Per-Play in their last game. Michigan State relied on Walker to take almost 60% of their rushing attempts this season — he averaged a robust 6.2 Yards-Per-Carry. Freshman Jordan Simmons averages 4.2 YPC — but he is a dropoff. The Spartans will struggle to run the football against this stout Panthers' run defense that ranked fifth in the nation by allowing just 2.7 Yards-Per-Carry. Pitt has had a top-ten run defense for two straight seasons under head coach Pat Narduzzi — and they have held their last six opponents to under 3.0 YPC. Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne has not been as effective when relied on to be the primary source of the offense. He comes off his two worst games this season in a drubbing against Ohio State before their upset win against Penn State. Pro Football Focus gave him grades below 60 for both games — and he had three turnover-worthy plays with zero Big Time Throws in those contests. Sparty relies on big plays — Thorne had a PFF rating of 92.0 on throws of at least air yards. But on throws less than 20 air yards, his PFF grade drops to 72.0 (C- range if graded by a teacher). The Panthers rank a solid 36th in the nation in Pass Explosiveness Allowed. Michigan State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after an upset win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 21 games after an upset win at home. They are also just 3-8-2 ATS in their last 13 games after a point spread win.

FINAL TAKE: The Spartans have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games in the second half of the season. Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams outside the ACC. Look for the Panthers to be inspired to prove they were more than just a Heisman Trophy Finalist at quarterback — and Narduzzi would love to beat his old team where he served as defensive coordinator for years. 25* CFB Thursday ESPN Game of the Year with the Pittsburgh Panthers (259) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (260). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Purdue Boilermakers (257) plus the points versus the Tennessee Volunteers (258) in the Music City Bowl. THE SITUATION: Purdue (8-4) is on a two-game winning streak after their 44-7 victory against Indiana as an 18.5-point favorite on November 27th. Tennessee (7-5) has won two in a row after their 45-21 victory against Vanderbilt as a 33-point favorite on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at the Nissan Stadium in Nashville.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOILERMAKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Purdue has a gunslinger quarterback and a stout defense -- this combo should keep them competitive in this bowl game. Aidan O’Connell completed 73.5% of his passes for 3178 yards with 28 touchdown passes and just eight interceptions while averaging 8.1 Yards-Per-Attempt. In his last four games, O’Connell completed 77% of his passes with a 407 passing YPG average with 14 touchdown passes and no interceptions. He will be without two of his favorite targets in David Bell and Milton Wright. Bell is opting out to prepare for the NFL and Wright is injured. But O’Connell still has plenty of reliable targets in an offense that ranked eighth in the nation by averaging 340.2 passing Yards-Per-Game: Jackson Anthrop caught 48 passes for 496 yards with five touchdowns; wide receiver T.J. Sheffield caught 33 passes for 264 yards with four touchdowns; tight end Payne Durham caught 40 passes for 382 yards and four touchdowns. The Boilermakers’ defense held opponents to just 20.5 PPG and 341.7 total YPG. Purdue was 21st in the nation by holding their opponents to just 194.6 passing YPG. They rank 28th in opponent’s Success Rate on defense — and they rank 20th in the nation in Expected Points Allowed per Play. The Boilermakers pulled off upsets against Michigan State and Iowa earlier in the season when they were both ranked in the top-five in the nation at the time. After losing to Ohio State in mid-November, Purdue bounced back to beat Northwestern by a 32-14 score before their win against the Hoosiers to end their regular season. The Boilermakers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after not allowing more than 14 points in two straight games. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning two games in a row by double-digits against Big Ten opponents. They have also covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games as an underdog under head coach Jeff Brohm. Tennessee has been inconsistent all season. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 29 games after a straight-up win — and they are 16-34-1 ATS in their last 51 games after a win by at least 20 points. The Volunteers rushed for 285 yards against the Commodores — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 29 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Tennessee has a potent offense that averages 38.8 PPG — but they also allow 27.5 PPG and 404.6 total YPG. On the road, the Volunteers give up 39.0 PPG and 521.8 total YPG in their four games away from Knoxville. The Tennessee pass defense allows 251.4 passing YPG — they allow 7.1 Yards-Per-Attempt and rank 62nd in Pass Success Rate allowed. The Vols fail to generate much of a pass rush — they rank 116th in their Pass Rush Grade. O’Connell thrives in clean pockets — Pro Football Focus grades him at 92.2 when not under pressure with an adjusted completed percentage of 80.8%.

FINAL TAKE: Tennessee has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games against teams with a winning record — and Purdue has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record. The Volunteers have a geographical advantage with this game being played a few hours west in Nashville from their Knoxville campus — but if you think this afternoon game is going to attract enough Tennessee fans who are going to be consistently loud enough for this bowl game to disrupt the snap count of the Boilermakers on offense, then I have some beachside property in Tennessee I would like to sell you. Most of the Tennessee players have probably never played in Nissan Stadium — so there is not a familiarity advantage. The relative advantage of having more fans cheering in a bowl game is perhaps the most overrated intangible deployed by lazy pundits. This is not “white-out” night game in Knoxville against a hated rival; it's a quicker bus ride. 10* CFB Music City Bowl ESPN Special with the Purdue Boilermakers (257) plus the points versus the Tennessee Volunteers (258). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 11:30 AM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the South Carolina Gamecocks (255) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (256) in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. THE SITUATION: South Carolina (6-6) enters this bowl game coming off a 30-0 shutout loss to Clemson as an 11.5-point underdog on November 27th. North Carolina (6-6) has lost two of their last three games after their 34-30 loss at North Carolina State as a 5.5-point underdog on November 26th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GAMECOCKS PLUS THE POINTS: South Carolina exceeded expectations this season in the first year of rookie head coach Shane Beamer. The son of legendary head coach Frank Beamer lacked head coaching experience after serving as the assistant head coach and tight end’s coach at Oklahoma from 2018-2020. Beamer inherited 14 starters from a team that finished 2-8 last season. The Gamecocks have steadily improved this season — and upset victories against Florida and Auburn in November put them in a position to be bowl eligible. Beamer will be using sixth-year senior Zeb Noland at quarterback this afternoon after injuries at the position compelled him to the graduate assistant to remove his coaching duties to take the field. Noland was originally recruited by Iowa State before playing at North Dakota State. In four starts, Noland made six “big-time” throws while only committing one turnover-worthy play. He protects the football which will help the defense keep South Carolina in the game. The Gamecocks only gained 206 yards against the stout Clemson defense — but they are then 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 games after failing to gain at least 250 yards in their last game. Senior quarterback Jason Brown is in the transfer portal and sophomore quarterback Luke Doty suffered a season-ending injury in October — so this will be Noland’s game. Running back ZaQuandre White is opting out of this game to prepare for the NFL — but South Carolina has freshman MarShawn Lloyd to turn to as he prepares to take on the lead back role next season. Lloyd is a former top-50 recruit. The Gamecocks have a good defense that ranks in the top-30 in opponent Finishing Drives. South Carolina also ranked seventh in the nation by allowing only 178.8 passing YPG — and they were tied for tenth in the FBS with 15 interceptions. The Gamecocks have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 bowl games. North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a point spread loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games on the road after playing a game that finished Over the Total. The Tar Heels generated 299 yards on the ground against the Wolfpack — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 27 of their last 38 games after rushing for at least 275 yards in their last game. North Carolina has also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a bye week. Quarterback Sam Howell is playing in his last game for the Tar Heels before preparing for the NFL draft — but the problem for this team all season has been their defense. North Carolina allows 31.6 PPG and 407.8 total Yards-Per-Game. The Tar Heels were also winless in their five games away from home with the offense sputtering with just 23.8 PPG. Pass protection was an ongoing problem with North Carolina surrendering 45 sacks. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams outside the ACC.

FINAL TAKE: South Carolina has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing on a neutral field — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games played on a neutral field as an underdog. North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games played on a neutral field. 10* CFB Duke’s Mayo Bowl ESPN Special with the South Carolina Gamecocks (255) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (256). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:45 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Clemson Tigers (252) minus the point(s) versus the Iowa State Cyclones (251) in the Cheez-It Bowl. THE SITUATION: Clemson (9-3) won their fifth straight game to close out the regular season with a 30-0 victory at South Carolina as an 11.5-point favorite on November 27th. Iowa State (7-5) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 48-14 victory against TCU as a 16-point favorite on November 26th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS MINUS THE POINTS: Clemson took a step back this season due to the drop-off in play at quarterback. Sophomore D.J. Uiagalelei struggled to fill the big shoes left by Trevor Lawrence who left for the NFL after his junior season. Yet the Tigers got their offense going late in the season by scoring at least 30 points in each of their games during their five-game winning streak. Led by the running back duo of Kobe Pace and Will Shipley, Clemson became run-focused who averaged 171 rushing YPG for the season with 598 rushing yards in their last two contests. And the Tigers defense remained elite all season — they allowed only 15.0 Points-Per-Game and 309.3 total Yards-Per-Game. The Clemson defense ranked third in the nation in Rush Success Rate allowed and third in Finishing Drives. They also only allowed eight “explosive” drives that averaged at least 10 Yards-Per-Play in the 154 drives they defended. Head coach Dabo Swinney lost both his coordinators, Tony Elliott and Brent Venables, to head coaching jobs at Virginia and Oklahoma — but he promoted from within with assistants very familiar with the schemes and hungry to make an impression. None of Swinney’s players opted out for this bowl game — this is the first game of the 2021-22 season for this group who should be very motivated. The Tigers should continue to build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games after a win by 20 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games after a point spread win. Clemson has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when favored. Iowa State had high expectations but those dreams were snatched from early losses to Iowa and Baylor in their first four games. They crushed the Horned Frogs to end their regular season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win and they are 6-14-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a win by 20 or more points. Furthermore, the Cyclones have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last contest. The Iowa State offense will be without star running back Breece Hall who has opted out for the NFL draft. The Cyclones are left with just sophomore Jirehl Brock at running back who averaged only 2.1 yards after contact in a disappointing campaign this season. Senior quarterback Brock Purdy was also underwhelming this year — he had 11 turnover-worthy plays and fumbled the football another seven times. He was sacked 21 times behind an offensive line that ranked only 47th in Havoc Rate Allowed — a frightening number when facing this elite Clemson defensive line. The Cyclones defense ranked outside the top-70 in Rushing Success Rate Allowed — and they were 74th in Pass Success Rate Allowed on passing downs. Iowa State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record  — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Cyclones have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in December -- and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games played on a neutral field. Clemson has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 16 games in December — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 bowl games. 25* CFB Wednesday ESPN Game of the Year with the Clemson Tigers (252) minus the point(s) versus the Iowa State Cyclones (251). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:15 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the West Virginia Mountaineers (245) plus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (246) in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl. THE SITUATION: West Virginia (5-6) is on a two-game winning streak after their 34-28 win at Kansas as a 15.5-point favorite on November 27th. Minnesota (8-4) is also on a two-game winning streak after their 23-13 upset win against Wisconsin as a 7-point underdog on November 27th. This game takes place on a neutral field at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MOUNTAINEERS PLUS THE POINTS: West Virginia started slow this season with four losses in their first five games but they eked by to become bowl eligible by winning four of their last six games including upset wins against TCU and Iowa State along with a late November victory against Texas. After not scoring more than 27 points in their first five games, the West Virginia offense behind senior quarterback Jarret Doege scored at least 29 points in four of their last six contests. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. Doege is a former transfer from Bowling Green who has been a two-year starter in this program. He completed 65.4% of his passes this season. He will not have the services of top running back Leodie Brown who is opting out of this game to prepare for the NFL — but head coach Neal Brown has options in sophomore Tony Mathis, Jr. and freshman A’Varius Sparrow. Brown developed a strong program at Troy which he used as a stepping stone to get this Power Five conference job. He will have relished the additional practice time to prepare for a crucial fourth year in his tenure in Morgantown. Minnesota may be due for a letdown after upsetting the Badgers to spoil their opportunity to play in the Big Ten Conference Championship Game. The Golden Gophers have six of their last eight games to close out the regular season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after winning six or seven of their last eight games. Minnesota only managed 282 yards in their upset win against Wisconsin. The Gophers can struggle to generate points as they have not topped 23 points in five of their last eight games.

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field when favored. 10* CFB Guaranteed Rate Field ESPN Special with the West Virginia Mountaineers (245) plus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (246). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Auburn Tigers (238) minus the point(s) versus the Houston Cougars (237) in the Birmingham Bowl. THE SITUATION: Auburn (6-6) is on a four-game losing streak after their 24-22 loss in overtime to Alabama as a 20.5-point underdog on November 27th. Houston (11-2) comes off a 35-20 loss to Cincinnati in the American Athletic Conference Championship Game as a 10.5-point underdog on December 4th. This game will be played at the new Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Alabama.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS MINUS THE POINT(S): The Tigers demonstrated their vast potential in almost upsetting the Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl a month ago. They sacked Alabama quarterback Bryce Young seven times while holding the Tide to just 71 rushing yards on 37 carries. This should be a motivated Auburn team with first-year head coach Bryan Harsin using this game as a lift-off point for next season. Harsin fired offensive coordinator Mike Bobo after the Alabama game — he will call the plays this afternoon and he has already brought in Bobo’s replacement in former NFL quarterback Austin Davis who served as the quarterbacks' coach for the Seattle Seahawks this season. Harsin does not want to go into his first offseason with a losing record. And this game is an opportunity to further develop former LSU transfer, T.J. Finley, at quarterback with the enigmatic Bo Nix in the transfer portal. The Tigers are down three starting offensive tackles for this game — and their star cornerback Roger McCreary has opted out of this game to prepare for the NFL draft. But this is an SEC power that is loaded for talent — and this is the first game for the 2022-23 season in Harsin’s mind. Harsin and his coaching staff did convince sophomore running back Tank Bigsby to not enter the transfer portal — he will be anchoring the offense in this game. The Tigers’ defense is battle-tested from the rigors of SEC play and a non-conference game against Penn State. They only allowed 22.2 Points-Per-Game and just 309.3 total Yards-Per-Game — and they rank 15th in the nation in Tackles-For-Loss. Their point spread cover against Alabama was the first time they covered the point spread in four games — but they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after failing to cover the point spread in three of their last four games. Auburn has also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games with the Total set in the 49.5 to 56 point range. Houston lost their opening game at Texas Tech by a 38-21 score before rattling off 11 straight wins before their loss to the Bearcats. This is just the second game the Cougars will be playing all season against a Power Five conference opponent — and it may be telling that their two losses were by double-digits. They had three net close wins decided by one scoring possession against their Group of Five opponents. And they will be playing this game without their star cornerback Marcus Jones who also generated tons of hidden yards when returning kicks on special teams. Houston has failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a bye week. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games in December — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played on a neutral field.

FINAL TAKE: The Cougars have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog — and the Tigers have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when favored. Auburn has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games in December. Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen’s teams in his career have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 bowl games. 10* CFB Birmingham Bowl ESPN Special with the Auburn Tigers (238) minus the point(s) versus the Houston Cougars (237). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Miami Dolphins (481) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (482). THE SITUATION: Miami (7-7) won their sixth straight game last Sunday in a 31-29 victory against the New York Jets as a 10.5-point favorite last Sunday. New Orleans (7-7) won their second-straight game with their 9-0 upset win at Tampa Bay as an 11.5-point underdog last Sunday night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE DOLPHINS MINUS THE POINTS: If the Dallas Cowboys (unfortunate, for us) blowout victory against Washington last night re-affirmed to me, it is to not underestimate the physical, mental, and emotional toll COVID outbreaks have on teams. Not that we should become zombies to simply fade teams dealing with significant outbreaks — and good luck finding matchups where only one team is dealing with that problem — but it is certainly a factor. We hope that Omicron is resulting in milder cases, but we just don’t know yet (the “analytics” are too early to evaluate). And we think professional athletes are in the best position to overcome. But dudes are still getting sick for a few days. A momentum swing like an early interception (as from last night) can play into the game script putting one team on defense for an extended period — and then suddenly a team dealing with the challenges and complications from COVID all week can find themselves on their heels. New Orleans has 20 players out because of COVID including quarterbacks Taysom Hill and Trevor Siemian. On defense, stalwarts in linebackers Demario Davis and Kaden Ellis along with strong safety Malcolm Jenkins who all played important roles in shutting out Tom Brady last week are now out as well. Head coach Sean Payton is on to his fourth-string quarterback in rookie Ian Book. The former Notre Dame star is an interesting project — but he left South Bend with a ceiling to his talents and there is a reason that there was little to no consideration of using him at quarterback up until tonight despite all the attrition at this position starting with the season-ending injury to Jameis Winston. In the preseason, Book completed 9 of 16 passes for 126 yards and an interception. Payton is an offensive wizard — but Book lacks Hill’s mobility to run the “Cam Newton Carolina” offense and his passing skillset is similar to Siemian’s but without the NFL experience. The Saints have Alvin Kamara back — but the Dolphins are likely to put eight men in the box to slow him down and dare New Orleans to beat them with Book’s arm (with a suspect receiving corps still missing Michael Thomas). Besides all that, the Saints are in a letdown spot after the shocking shutout victory against the Buccaneers. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after an upset win as an underdog of six or more points against an NFC South rival. The Saints have covered the point spread in their last two games but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after covering point spread expectations in two of their last three games. New Orleans benefited from a +2 net turnover margin against Tampa Bay — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 37 of their last 56 home games after enjoying a +2 or better net turnover margin in their last game. The Saints return home where they are just 1-4 this season while getting outscored by 27.8 Points-Per-Game and surrendering 402.0 total Yards-Per-Game. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread 14 of their last 22 home games with the Total set in the 35.5 to 38 point range. The Saints also remain without their starting tackles with Ryan Ramczyk out with COVID and Terron Armstead still dealing with a knee injury. That is not a good sign for a team that ranks second to last in the league over the last six weeks in Expected Points Added per snap on offense. Miami’s defense leads the NFL during that span in Expected Points Allowed per snap. Admittedly, the Dolphins have been feasting on the lesser teams in the league with less than ideal quarterback situations — but this is a team that is confident with a formula for success. And this team is pretty healthy with few COVID cases. Miami has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a victory at home. They had covered the point spread in five straight games before their narrow win over the Jets last week - and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in three of their last four games. The Dolphins have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after scoring at least 30 points. Tua Tagovailoa has found a rhythm under center as of late — he has completed 100 of his 129 passes in his last four games for a 77.8% completion percentage with 943 passing yards, seven touchdown passes, and just three interceptions. And while Miami allowed just 228 yards to the Jets last week, they have then covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after not allowing more than 250 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: The Dolphins have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games under head coach Brian Flores in December. 25* NFL Monday Night Football Game of the Month is on the Miami Dolphins (481) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (482). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Washington Football Team (479) plus the points versus the Dallas Cowboys (480). THE SITUATION: Washington (6-8) lost their second straight game in a 27-17 loss at Philadelphia as a 10-point underdog on Tuesday. Dallas (10-4) won their third straight game with a 21-6 victory in New York against the Giants as an 11.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FOOTBALL TEAM PLUS THE POINTS: Washington is a tough out under head coach Ron Rivera. The Football Team has covered 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games as an underdog. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in the second half of the season. They did allow 519 total yards to the Eagles on Tuesday — but they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. They stayed competitive against Philadelphia with their +2 net turnover margin — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after owning a +2 or better turnover margin in their last game. Washington managed only 237 yards in that game with Garrett Gilbert signed just days earlier as an emergency quarterback. They are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after not gaining more than 350 yards in their last game. The good news for the Football Team is that starting quarterback Taylor Heinicke and backup Kyle Allen have been cleared off the COVID list to play tonight. Dallas is just 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. But injuries are slowing this team down on offense. The biggest loss is Tyron Smith at left tackle — he might be the most important player on the team outside of Dak Prescott. Running back Ezekiel Elliott has been slowed with injuries this season. The Cowboys do get running back Tony Pollard back tonight but it remains a question how effective he will be with his foot injury. Dallas has not scored more than 27 points in four of their last five and six of their last eight contests. They did benefit from a +3 net turnover margin against the Giants last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning the turnover battle in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: The Cowboys won the first meeting between these two teams just two weeks ago in a 27-20 victory in Washington on December 12th. The Football Team has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when motivated to avenge a loss at home to their opponent. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Washington Football Team (479) plus the points versus the Dallas Cowboys (480). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Minnesota Vikings (468) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (467). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (7-7) has won two in a row after their 17-9 win at Chicago as a 7-point favorite last Monday. Los Angeles (10-4) has won three in a row with their 20-10 win against Seattle as a 7.5-point favorite on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE VIKINGS PLUS THE POINTS: This is a challenging situation for the Rams traveling east to play in Minnesota on a short week — made all the worse with a COVID outbreak on the team. Star left tackle Andrew Whitworth is out to significantly impact an offensive line that was already dealing with COVID issues. As it is, Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a win by 10 or more points at home. The Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Additionally, Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after winning two games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games after winning three of their last four games. And while the Rams have covered the point spread in three straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after covering the point spread in three straight games. Minnesota only needed 193 yards of offense in their victory against the Bears on Monday. The Vikings have still covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after failing to gain at least 250 yards in their last game. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they are 20-6-1 ATS in their last 27 home games as an underdog. They will be without running back Delvin Cook who is on the COVID list — but backup Alexander Mattison is more than capable in his absence. The team does get back wide receiver Adam Thielen who was out last week on the COVID list.

FINAL TAKE: Minnesota has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record — and Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored. Don’t be surprised if the Vikings pull the upset — but take the points for some insurance. 10* NFL Don’t Need the Points (but take the points) Underdog Special with the Minnesota Vikings (468) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (467). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Arizona Cardinals (456) minus the points versus the Indianapolis Colts (455). THE SITUATION: Arizona (10-4) has lost two straight games after their 30-12 upset loss in Detroit as a 13-point favorite last Sunday. Indianapolis (8-6) won their fifth game in their last six contests with their 27-17 win against New England as a 1-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINALS MINUS THE POINTS: The Cardinals have now suffered two straight upset losses after beginning last week with a 30-23 upset loss at home to the Los Angeles Rams as a 3-point favorite on Monday Night Football. Arizona has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after getting upset in two straight games as the favorite. The Cardinals have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a loss by 14 or more points — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, Arizona has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not scoring more than 14 points in the last game. The Cardinals did generate 398 yards in the losing effort to the Lions — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last game. Indianapolis has won two games in a row after their triumph against the Patriots last Saturday — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after winning two games in a row. The Colts have covered the point spread in their last two games as well as four of their last six games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in7 of their last 11 games after covering the point spread in two games in a row and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. The defense for Indianapolis has played great during this stretch as they have only allowed more than 17 points once in their last six games. But the Colts did give up 284 passing yards to the Patriots and Mac Jones last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 250 passing yards in their last game. Indianapolis gained only 275 yards in that game with 226 of them coming from their rushing attack. It will be difficult for Indy to replicate that performance on the ground tonight with them missing three starting offensive linemen. Quenton Nelson and Mark Glowinski are on the COVID list while Ryan Kelly is taking personal time after the death of his child. The pressure will be on Carson Wentz to make plays with his arm after he completed only five passes in his 12 attempts for 57 yards last week. The Colts have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after not passing for more than 100 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: Arizona has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. 10* NFL Indianapolis-Arizona NFL Network Special with the Arizona Cardinals (456) minus the points versus the Indianapolis Colts (455). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Ball State Cardinals (231) plus the points versus the Georgia State Panthers (232) in the Camellia Bowl. THE SITUATION: Ball State (6-6) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 20-3 victory against Buffalo as a 6-point favorite on November 23rd in their last regular-season game. Georgia State (7-5) won their last three games to end their regular season after a 37-10 victory against Troy as a 6.5-point favorite on November 27th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINALS PLUS THE POINTS: Ball State won the Mid-American Conference championship last season before beating San Jose State by a 34-13 score in Arizona Bowl to secure the first bowl victory in the program’s history. The Cardinals did not meet expectations this season — but 16 fifth and six-year seniors have the opportunity to end their legacies on a high note in this game. In hindsight, perhaps regression should have been expected for head coach Mike Neu’s team after four net close victories and three net upset wins last year. They only outgained their seven conference opponents by +21.3 net Yards-Per-Game despite winning six of those games. This group has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a win against a conference opponent. Ball State has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread win -- and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games on the road after a point spread victory. They are led by a senior quarterback in Drew Plitt who threw 17 touchdown passes and only threw five interceptions. The Cardinals are a dangerous underdog because they limit their mistakes. They rank in the top-20 in the nation by averaging only 41.6 penalty Yards-Per-Game and by only committing 10 turnovers all season. They also are efficient in the Red Zone by registering points in 33 of their 38 trips inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. Ball State has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field as an underdog. The Cardinals have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games in December. Georgia State started the season 1-4 before winning six of their last seven — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after winning four of their last five games. The Panthers' improvement coincided with head coach Shawn Elliott’s decision to bench incumbent starter Cornelius Brown for Furman transfer Darren Grainger. While the team raised their scoring average to 32.5 Points-Per-Game with the junior as a starter, the Georgia State offense revolves around their rushing attack. In his last five games, Grainger has only accounted for six touchdowns — and he completed only 55.8% of his 113 passes over that span while averaging just 145.8 passing Yards-Per-Game and 6.45 Yards-Per-Attempt. The Panthers were outscored and outgained this season — and they were outgained by -7.64 net YPG in their six games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia State’s offense averaged 4.98 Yards-Per-Carry and 2245 rushing YPG behind the two-headed monster of Tucker Gregg and Jamyest Williams — but Ball State has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against teams who average at least 200 rushing YPG and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games against opponents who average at least 4.15 YPC. 10* CBB Camellia Bowl ESPN Special with the Ball State Cardinals (231) plus the points versus the Georgia State Panthers (232). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Tennessee Titans (452) plus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (451). THE SITUATION: Tennessee (9-5) lost their third game in their last four in a 19-13 loss at Pittsburgh as a 1-point underdog on December 19th. San Francisco (8-6) has won five of their last six games after a 31-13 win against Atlanta as a 9.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TITANS PLUS THE POINTS: The Titans went into halftime with a 13-3 lead against the Steelers but did not score in the second half in their loss last week. A -4 net turnover margin spoiled Tennessee winning the yardage battle by a 318 to 170 margin. They did rush for 201 yards in the setback with D’Onta Foreman running the ball 22 times for 108 yards — and that is a good sign for this team if they can avoid fumbling the ball three times like they did last week. Tennessee has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. The Titans have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss on the road. Injuries have depleted the skill position players on offense — but the running game is still functioning even without Derrick Henry and after getting wide receiver Julio Jones back last week, wide receiver A.J. Brown is expected to return to the field this week after dealing with a chest injury. Tennessee has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as an underdog. San Francisco has failed to cover the point spread in 37 of their last 58 games on the road after a win by at least 14 points. And while they have covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in two straight games. The Titans are dealing with injuries on their offensive line with three players out including two starters — but they can move some players around to still form a capable starting five which will now likely include their second-round draft pick, Dillon Radunz. The Niners are dealing with several missing pieces on defense including recent injuries to two of their starters at linebacker (and Dre Greenlaw has been declared out). I concluded the impact of the losses still offers us value relative to the line.

FINAL TAKE: San Francisco travels east on a short week to Nashville — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 appearances on Thursday Night Football. 10* NFL Thursday Night Discounted Deal with the Tennessee Titans (452) plus the points versus the San Francisco 49ers (451). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Miami (OH) RedHawks (291) minus the point(s) versus the North Texas Mean Green (292) in the Frisco Football Classic. THE SITUATION: Miami (OH) (5-6) lost their chance to play in the Mid-American Conference Championship Game with a 48-47 upset loss in overtime at Kent State as a 1-point favorite on November 27th. North Texas (6-6) won their fifth straight game with a 45-23 upset win against UTSA as a 9.5-point underdog on November 27th. This game will be played on a neutral field at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE REDHAWKS MINUS THE POINT(S): Miami should respond with a strong effort for head coach Chuck Martin. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. They have also covered the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games on the road after a loss by seven points or less to a conference rival. This has been an explosive team on offense since sophomore quarterback Brett Gabbert returned from injury on October 23rd. They have scored more than 37 Points-Per-Game in their last six games while averaging 6.8 Yards-Per-Play in their last five contests. Gabbert has thrown 24 touchdown passes to just six interceptions won the season — and he has averaged 9.4 Yards-Per-Attempt in his last five starts since returning from injury. He completed 26 of 51 passes for 405 yards with four touchdown passes in the loss to the Golden Flashes. He should have success against the suspect Mean Green secondary that allows 7.9 YPA and ranks 123rd in the nation in Explosiveness Allowed in the passing game. The issue for Miami (OH) is to play better on the defensive side of the football. They allowed a power Kent State offense to gain 303 yards on the ground and 339 yards in the air — but they have then covered the point spread in 5 straight games after allowing at least 200 rushing yards in their last game and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 17 games after allowing at least 280 passing yards in their last contest. North Texas may have upset the Roadrunners in their last game — but they were facing a UTSA team that had already clinched their spot in the Conference USA Championship Game and who rested their key starters in the second half of the game. The Mean Green have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a win at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games after a win at home by 17 or more points. North Texas has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. The Mean Green allowed 205 rushing yards in their victory — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 200 rushing yards in their last contest. North Texas had failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games in December. The Mean Green have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 bowl games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 bowl games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Miami (OH) has covered the point spread in 30 of their last 44 road games when playing on grass. 10* CFB Frisco Bowl Classic ESPN Special with the Miami (OH) RedHawks (291) minus the point(s) versus the North Texas Mean Green (292). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the San Diego State Aztecs (223) minus the points versus the UTSA Roadrunners (224) in the Frisco Bowl. THE SITUATION: San Diego State (11-2) looks to rebound from a 46-13 upset loss to Utah State as a 6.5-point favorite in the Mountain West Conference Championship Game on December 4th. UTSA (12-1) won the Conference USA Championship Game with their 49-41 upset win against Western Kentucky as a 3.5-point underdog on December 3rd. This game is being played on a neutral field at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE AZTECS MINUS THE POINTS: San Diego State was without 20 players on the COVID list including quarterback Lucas Johnson in their loss to the Aggies. The roster appears to be mostly healthy again for this opportunity to end the season on a positive note after that disappointment in their conference championship game. Winning this game would also give this team 12 wins to break a school record for victories. As it is, the Aztecs have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 road games after a double-digit loss. San Diego State is also 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 4-1-1 AS in their last 6 games after a point spread loss. The Aztecs have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. Head coach Brady Hoke has a stout defensive unit that holds their opponents to just 19.5 Points-Per-Game and 319.5 total Yards-Per-Game — they should play much better tonight back at full strength. San Diego State also has a secret weapon to complement their defensive approach with punter Matt Araiza who averages 51.4 yards per punt this season — and he has 36 punts that landed inside their 20-yard line. UTSA may be due for a letdown after winning their conference championship. The Roadrunners have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after an upset victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after an upset win against a Conference USA opponent. UTSA generated 556 total yards against the Hilltoppers in that triumph — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after gaining at least 525 total yards in their last game. The Roadrunners have played three straight Overs — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after playing at least three straight Overs.

FINAL TAKE: UTSA running back Sincere McCormick has opted-out of this game to enter the NFL draft — the Roadrunners will miss his 3900 career rushing yards after he generated 1479 rushing yards this season with 15 touchdowns on 299 carries. They score 37.8 Points-Per-Game this year — but they play an angry Aztecs team that has covered the point spread in 18 of their last 25 road games against teams who score at least 34 PPG. 20* CFB Frisco Bowl ESPN Special with the San Diego State Aztecs (223) minus the points versus the UTSA Roadrunners (224). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Seattle Seahawks (337) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (338). THE SITUATION: Seattle (5-8) has won two games in a row with their 33-13 win at Houston as a 10-point favorite last Sunday. Los Angeles (9-4) has won two games in a row after their 30-23 upset victory at Arizona as a 3-point underdog last Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SEAHAWKS PLUS THE POINTS: After struggling initially after his faster-than-expected return from a finger injury, Russell Wilson has regained his old form after completing 17 of 28 passes for 260 yards with two touchdown passes and no interceptions in the win against the Texans. Wilson is completing more than 70% of his passes with a Passer Rating of 109 in his last three starts. He has averaged 246 passing Yards-Per-Game in those contests with six touchdown passes and just one interception. The Seahawks are 35-17-3 ATS in their last 55 games after passing for at least 250 yards in their last game. While this game was originally postponed because of a COVID outbreak in the Rams’ locker room, it is now Seattle that has been hit harder with positive cases. The Seahawks are without a handful of players including wide receiver Tyler Lockett, running back Alex Collins, cornerback D.J. Reed, and right tackle Brandon Shell. The absence of Lockett hurts but Wilson still has D.J. Metcalf as a prime target. The loss of Collins is not as big a deal with the emergence of running back Rashaad Penny who rushed the ball 16 times for 137 yards last week. The line has moved to account for the players Seattle will not have tonight — but they still have Wilson who usually makes them dangerous underdogs. The Seahawks have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as a dog getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Seattle has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 road games with the Total set in the 42.5-49 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 road games as an underdog. The Seahawks have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in December. Seattle is also a dangerous dog since they protect the football — they are tied for the fewest giveaways in the league. The national punditry seems to believe the Rams have solved all their problems after beating and covering the point spread in their last two games against Jacksonville and the Cardinals last week. We had LA against Arizona in that game — but the Rams have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after a win by at least 14 points. Los Angeles has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after winning two games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in two straight games. Furthermore, the Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 15 points in their last game. Consistency has not been a hallmark for this team under head coach Sean McVay. And problems remain — a +2 net turnover margin helped them overcome betting outgained by 89 yards to the Cardinals. Arizona generated 447 yards against them — and the Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 42 home games after allowing at least 400 yards in their last game. Los Angeles still has many players out on the COVID list including starting tight end Tyler Higbee — but they do expect to get Von Miller back.

FINAL TAKE: The Rams have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a losing record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when favored. 25* NFC West Underdog of the Month with the Seattle Seahawks (337) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (338). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Chicago Bears (332) plus the points versus the Minnesota Vikings (331). THE SITUATION: Chicago (4-9) lost their second straight game win a 45-30 loss at Green Bay as an 11.5-point underdog last Sunday. Minnesota (6-7) won their third game in their last five contests with a 36-28 victory against Pittsburgh as a 3.5-point favorite on Thursday Night Football last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Chicago has lost seven of their last eight games — but they have the opportunity to play the role of spoiler tonight. The Bears have not covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 29 home games after not covering the point spread in three straight games. They have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games after not covering the point spread in four straight games. Chicago has suffered -4 and -3 net turnover margins in their last two games — but they have then covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games at home after enduring a -2 or worse net turnover margin in two straight games. They host a Vikings team that is just 2-5 on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Despite two interceptions last week, rookie quarterback Justin Fields has played well as the Bears’ starting quarterback. He completed 18 of 33 passes for 224 yards with two touchdown passes and another 74 rushing yards. Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning their last game at home. The Vikings have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after playing a game at home where both teams scored 24 points. And while Minnesota has played four straight Overs, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after playing at least four straight Overs. They allowed the Steelers to gain 375 yards last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. And while the Vikings have gained 426 and 458 yards in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after gaining at least 375 yards in their last game. They go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games with the Total set in the 45.5 to 49 point range — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a losing record at home. Furthermore, Minnesota has failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games against teams with a losing record. They have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Vikings have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games on Monday Night Football — and Kirk Cousins has lost nine of his ten starts in prime-time. The Bears have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on Monday Night Football. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 meetings with Minnesota — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 opportunities to host the Vikings at Soldier Field. 25* NFC North Game of the Month with the Chicago Bears (332) plus the points versus the Minnesota Vikings (331). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (330) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (329). THE SITUATION: Tampa Bay (10-3) won their fourth straight game with their 33-27 victory against Buffalo as a 3.5-point favorite last week. New Orleans (6-7) snapped a five-game losing streak with their 30-9 win at New York against the Jets as a 4.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCCANEERS MINUS THE POINTS: Tampa Bay should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a victory. The Buccaneers have scored at least 30 points in all four of their wins on this streak — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 30 points in at least three straight games. Tampa Bay is a perfect 6-0 at home with an average winning margin of +19.0 Points-Per-Game — so I am comfortable laying double-digits. They have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 home games - and they habit veered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games when laying 7.5 to 14 points. The Buccaneers do have Vita Vea back on their defensive line who helps them become very tough to run on. Tampa Bay is third in the NFL by allowing only 91.2 rushing YPG — it will be a challenge to run the ball against this team without a credible passing attack. The Saints’ pass attack has averaged only 180 YPG in their last three games with a low 5.9 Yards-Per-Attempt average and a 55.4% completion percentage. The Bucs will be able to put eight defenders in the box in this rematch. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread win. A big concern for New Orleans in this game is their anemic offensive under quarterback Taysom Hill. The Saints are scoring only 17.7 PPG while averaging 313.0 total Yards-Per-Game in their last three games. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams from the NFC.

FINAL TAKE: The Halloween meeting between these teams was a game that Jameis Winston started but got injured in before Trevor Siemian came off the bench to play one of his best games in his career in unusual circumstances. Brady will be motivated to make a statement in these revenge circumstances — and the Buccaneers have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games as a double-digit favorite. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (330) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (329) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (330). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:15 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Marshall Thundering Herd (217) plus the points versus the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (218) in the New Orleans Bowl. THE SITUATION: Marshall (7-5) has lost two of their last three games after a 53-21 loss to Western Kentucky as a 1-point underdog on November 27th. UL-Lafayette (12-1) won the Sun Belt Championship Game with their 24-16 upset win against Appalachian State as a 2.5-point underdog on December 4th. This game will be played at the Caesar’s Superdome in New Orleans.

REASONS TO TAKE THE THUNDERING HERD PLUS THE POINTS: Marshall should play well after their embarrassing loss to the Hilltoppers. They have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after a loss by 21 or more points against a Conference USA rival — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a loss by 28 or more points. The Thundering Herd have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 40 points in their last game. Allowing Western Kentucky to score on a 43-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and a 45-yard interception return for a touchdown did not help the Marshall cause under rookie head coach Charlies Huff. Despite their 7-5 record, this team is outscoring their opponents by +11.2 net Points-Per-Game and outgaining them by +82.8 net Yards-Per-Game. In their six games away from home, the Thundering Herd outscored their opponents by +16.5 PPG and +62.0 net YPG. Led by second-year freshman quarterback Grant Wells, the Thundering Herd ranks 27th in the nation in Success Rate on offense. UL-Lafayette finally beat their White Whale in Appalachian State in a conference championship game after falling twice against them prior under head coach Billy Napier. Their head coach has since moved on to Gainesville to begin his journey as the head coach for the University of Florida — and he took a handful of assistants with him including defensive coordinator Patrick Toney. Co-offensive coordinator Michael Desormeaux takes over as the interim head coach. I suspect an emotional letdown is coming for a team that appeared disinterested at times after losing their opener to Texas. The following week, they only beat Nicholls State by three points. They later defeated South Alabama, Arkansas State, Georgia State, and UL-Monroe by five points or less despite being a double-digit favorite on each occasion. As it is, the Ragin’ Cajuns have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after an upset win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory. Louisiana has not committed a turnover in four straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after not committing a turnover in at least three straight games. Running back Chris Smith is another key piece to the team that won the conference title who will not be in the Big Easy as he has opted-out of this game. This is a team that has not covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against Conference USA opponents. The Ragin’ Cajuns have not covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: UL-Louisiana has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight bowl games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games played on a neutral field. Marshall has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games played on a neutral field — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games on a neutral field as an underdog getting up to seven points. The Thundering Herd have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 bowl games. 25* CFB Saturday ESPN Game of the Month with the Marshall Thundering Herd (217) plus the points versus the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (218). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Indianapolis Colts (312) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (311). THE SITUATION: Indianapolis (7-6) has won four of their last five games after their 31-0 victory at Houston as a 10-point favorite on December 5th. New England (9-4) won their seventh game in a row with their 14-10 upset win at Buffalo as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COLTS MINUS THE POINTS: Indianapolis should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 31 of their last 45 games after a double-digit win against an AFC South Rival. The Colts generated 389 yards against Texas to outgain them by +248 net yards. Indy has covered the point spread in 33 of their last 51 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +150 net yards — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last game. The Colts' offense has started to crank with Carson Wentz more comfortable running head coach Frank Reich’s offense. Indianapolis has scored at least 30 points in seven of their last eight games. Since Week Six, this team leads the NFL in points scored and touchdowns and they are second in rushing yards. They held Houston to just 141 total yards — and they are 24-7-1 ATS in their last 32 games after not allowing more than 250 yards in their last game. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. They return home where they are 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Colts may only have two wins in their seven games against teams with a winning record — but they have also covered the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games against teams with a winning record. New England had failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a game where they did not score more than 14 points. Some might be surprised that the red hot Patriots are the underdogs in this game — but it relates to rookie quarterback Mac Jones’ home/road splits this season. At home, Jones is averaging 267.1 passing YPG with 13 touchdown passes and five interceptions. He has a Quarterback Rating of 102.5 in those seven home games. But in his six games on the road, Jones sees his QBR drop to 87.7. Even after tossing out his 2 of 3 passing performance in the wind in Buffalo in his last game, Jones is still only averaging 196 passing YPG in his other five road games with just three touchdown passes and three interceptions. New England ran their way to victory against the Bills in that game as they gained 222 yards on the ground. But the Patriots are 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games after rushing for at least 150 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after rushing for at least 175 yards in their last contest. New England is also just 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games in December under head coach Bill Belichick. The Patriots will be without Damien Harris in this game as he is out with a hamstring injury.  

FINAL TAKE: The Colts surge has been led by running back Jonathan Taylor — they are 7-0 straight-up when he rushes for at least 100 yards. The Patriots have a great defense — but they are vulnerable against the run as they allow 4.4 Yards-Per-Carry and rank 18th in the NFL by giving up 114 rushing YPG. 25* AFC Game of the Month Indianapolis Colts (312) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (311). Best of luck for us — Frank. 

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the UAB Blazers (211) plus the points versus the BYU Cougars (212) in the Independence Bowl. THE SITUATION: UAB (8-4) won their third game in their last four with their 42-25 win against UTEP as a 14-point favorite on November 26th. BYU (10-2) won their fifth straight game with a 35-31 victory at USC as an 8-point favorite on November 27th. This game is being played at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLAZERS PLUS THE POINTS: UAB should build off the momentum of the close of their good regular-season finish. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a victory against a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning four or five of their last six games. The Blazers have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games under head coach Bill Clark when getting at least two weeks to prepare for the game. This could very well be Clark’s best team at UAB in his six years with the program. He returned 17 starters from last season’s team that finished 6-3 but did not get to play in the Gasparilla Bowl when it got canceled because of COVID. The UAB offense scores 29.4 PPG while averaging a healthy 5.9 Yards-Per-Play. They rank fifth in the nation in Expected Points per rushing attempt — and they have the 11th highest rush rate on offense in the country. The Blazers should be able to run the ball against this Cougars’ defense that allows their opponents to average 4.4 Yards-Per-Carr and who rank 93rd in the FBS in Rush Success Rate allowed. The UAB defense is stout — they are 19th in the nation by allowing only 4.8 YPP. They hold opposing rushers to just 3.0 Yards-Per-Carry — and they rank third in the nation in Rushing Explosiveness allowed. The Blazers have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record. BYU has failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 25 games after a win on the road where they did not cover the point spread. This is the Cougars’ third straight game on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 31 of their last 43 games playing their last two games on the road. BYU has also failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after winning their last two games on the road. They did allow the Trojans to gain 458 yards — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. And while they have scored at least 34 points in four straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 31 points in three straight games. BYU was expected to take a step back this season after losing five players to the NFL draft from the team that finished 11-1 last year against a schedule that did not include a Power 5 opponent. A +0.83 net turnover margin that was 10th best in the nation helped. But the Cougars were also fortunate to win all four of their games that were decided by one scoring possession. They scored 33.5 Points-Per-Game but saw that scoring average fall by -4.8 PPG and their yardage plummet by -24.7 net Yards-Per-Game when playing away from home. That is not a good sign for a team that has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games in December — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 bowl games.

FINAL TAKE: BYU has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when favored — and UAB has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog. 20* CFB UAB-BYU ABC-TV Special with the UAB Blazers (211) plus the points versus the BYU Cougars (212). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (202) plus the points versus the Toledo Rockets (201) in the Bahamas Bowl. THE SITUATION: Middle Tennessee (6-6) became bowl eligible to conclude their regular season with a 27-17 win at FAU as a 3.5-point underdog on November 27th. Toledo (7-5) is on a three-game winning streak after a 49-14 win against Akron as a 28.5-point favorite on November 27th. This game is being played on a neutral field at Thomas Robinson Stadium in Nassau, Bahamas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLUE RAIDERS PLUS THE POINTS: Middle Tennessee lost four of their first six games before salvaging their season by winning four of their last six games. Head coach Rick Stockstill hit the transfer portal in the offseason to inject more talent into what has been a sleepy program as of late. But his teams typically end strong — the Blue Raiders have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games in the second half of the season. They outscored their last three opponents by +14.3 net Points-Per-Game and they outgained these foes by +94.0 net Yards-Per-Game. Stabilizing play at quarterback has been a season-long journey. Former NC State QB Bailey Hockman left the team in September after having a baby. Redshirt junior QB Chase Cunningham suffered a season-ending leg injury in early November. Freshman QB Nicholas Vattiato started the final four games — and after a rough debut at Western Kentucky, he has since completed 63 of 89 passes for 553 yards with three touchdown passes and only one interception in his last three games. He was benched for sophomore Mike Diliello in the game against the Owls — and it was Diliello who led the comeback win by completing 12 of 19 passes for 131 yards with a touchdown pass. Diliello adds mobility to the offense — he ran 12 times for 43 yards with a touchdown. Both QBs hold play this afternoon — and a quarterback competition in a bowl game building into the following season is not a bad thing in these situations. Middle Tennessee is a good defensive team — they rank 24th in the nation by allowing only 5.1 Yards-Per-Play. The Blue Raiders also rank sixth in the nation by averaging +0.92 net turnovers per game. And while fumble luck played a role, the Middle Tennessee defense was fifth in the nation by picking off 16 passes. The Blue Raiders did not force a turnover in their win at FAU — but they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after not forcing more than one turnover in their last game. Toledo failed to meet their high expectations this season after returning 21 starters. They were 0-4 in one-possession games. So while this could have been a 10-win team, how motivated will this group be in Bahamas now? As it is, they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win against a Mid-American Conference opponent — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a point spread win. And while the Rockets outgained the Zips by +217 net yards by generating 582 total yards, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +225 net yards — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after gaining at least 475 yards. Toledo has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last contest. The Rockets have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games after winning at least three games in a row. Toledo is a program that is just 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 bowl games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games played on a neutral field.

FINAL TAKE: Middle Tennessee is playing in their first bowl game since 2018 — and they have not won a bowl game since 2017. They are a team looking to build momentum into next season while this is a coda for many of these Rocket players. High winds up to 15 miles per hour will likely contribute to chaos — and chaos tends to help big underdogs. 10* CFB Toledo-Middle Tennessee ESPN Special with the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (202) plus the points versus the Toledo Rockets (201). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Chargers (302) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (301). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (8-5) won their third game in their last four with their 37-21 win against the New York Giants as a 9.5-point favorite last week. Kansas City (9-4) has won six straight games after their 48-9 win against Las Vegas as a 10-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHARGERS PLUS THE POINTS: I thought Los Angeles was in a letdown situation last week against a Giants team that had been playing well on defense — but the Chargers dominated with 423 yards of offense which helped them win the yardage battle by +107 net yards. Los Angeles had a +2 net turnover margin in that game — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after enjoying a +2 or better net turnover margin in their last game. The Chargers stay at home where they are scoring 30.6 Points-Per-Game and averaging 408.4 total Yards-Per-Game. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog. The Chargers are not at full strength with rookie left tackle Rashawn Slater out due to his being on the COVID list. Wide receiver Keenan Allen was out with COVID last week — but he is back. Running back Austin Ekeler should also be able to play despite an ankle injury. Kansas City has failed to cover the point spread 6 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. The Chiefs benefited from a +5 net turnover margin to easily defeat the Raiders last week. Kansas City has won the turnover battle in five straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after enjoying a +1 or better net turnover margin in five straight games. The Chiefs will likely be without defensive tackle Chris Jones who is on the COVID list with the team not optimistic he can clear the protocols in time for tonight’s game. The Kansas City’s defense made their transformation this season when Jones moved back to defensive tackle after the team picked up defensive end Melvin Ingram from Baltimore. The Chiefs will also be without starting linebacker Willie Gay, Jr. who is on the COVID list, and starting cornerback L’Jarius Sneed who is dealing with a personal family issue. Kansas City has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against AFC opponents.

FINAL TAKE: The Chiefs are just 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games against the Chargers. 10* NFL Thursday Night Discounted Deal with the Los Angeles Chargers (302) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (301). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Rams (129) plus the points versus the Arizona Cardinals (130). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (8-4) ended a three-game losing streak with a 37-5 victory against Jacksonville as a 14-point favorite last Sunday. Arizona (10-2) has won two games in a row after their 33-22 win at Chicago as a 7.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS PLUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles dominated the Jaguars last week by outgaining them by +221 net yards. The Rams have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 30 road games after scoring at least 35 points in their last game. Los Angeles covered the point spread for the first time in their last six games — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after covering the point spread just once in their last three games. The Rams have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after losing two of their last three games. What was encouraging from the Jaguars game was that Los Angeles ran the ball 28 times for 128 yards. That was the most rushing attempts and yards for the Rams in four games. They will be without Darrell Henderson tonight with him being on the COVID list — but Sony Michel is capable in taking on the lead back role. Their 6.3 Yards-Per-Play average is the best in the NFL — and they average 6.3 YPP on the road with the offensive execution not dropping off. Los Angeles is 4-2 on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games as an underdog getting up to seven points. The Rams are also 25-12-1 ATS in their last 38 games in the NFC — and they are 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 games in December. Arizona has won three of their last four games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7games after winning three of their last four games. The Cardinals host this game where they are just 3-2 this season with an average winning margin of +1.4 net Points-Per-Game. They are only scoring 22.6 PPG at home. Arizona has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games with the Total set at 49.5 or higher. The Cardinals have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 home games when favored by up to seven points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Additionally, Arizona has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 appearances on Monday Night Football.

FINAL TAKE: The Cardinals won the first meeting between these two teams by a 37-20 score in Los Angeles as a 3.5-point underdog. The Rams have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. Los Angeles is 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games against the Cardinals — and they have covered their last 6 games against them in Arizona. 25* NFC West Game of the Month with the Los Angeles Rams (129) plus the points versus the Arizona Cardinals (130). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Chicago Bears (127) plus the points versus the Green Bay Packers (128). THE SITUATION: Chicago (4-8) lost their sixth contest in their last seven games after their 33-22 loss at home to Arizona as a 7.5-point underdog last Sunday. Green Bay (9-3) won their second game in their last three with a 36-287 upset win against the Los Angeles Rams as a 2-point underdog on November 28th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Chicago outgained the Cardinals by +72 net yards last week but a -4 net turnover margin dug them into a hole they could not climb out. Andy Dalton threw four interceptions in the game — and he will not be playing tonight with Justin Fields recovered from the rib injury that kept him out last week. Fields is playing better since offensive coordinator Bill Lazor took over calling the plays for him — he is not allergic to calling plays that take advantage of Fields’ mobility. The Bears have not covered the point spread in three straight games — but they have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after not covering the point spread in their last three games. Chicago signed fullback Ben Mason off the Baltimore practice squad which is a good indicator that they are going to offer Fields an extra blocker and threat with the football out of the backfield after he thrived in a similar role in college at the University of Michigan. The Bears have outgained their last three opponents by +88.3 net Yards-Per-Game. Green Bay has failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a bye week. And while the Packers have covered the point spread in ten of their twelve games this season, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after covering the point spread in at least eight of their last ten games. They stay at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Green Bay may be 5-0 at home — but they are only outgaining their guests by +33.8 net Yards-Per-Game.

FINAL TAKE: The Packers gained only 323 total yards in their 24-14 win at Chicago on October 13th. While the Bears may be getting outscored by -7.1 net PPG this season, Green Bay has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games at home in the second half of the season when hosting a team getting outscored by at least -6.0 PPG. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Chicago Bears (127) plus the points versus the Green Bay Packers (128). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the New York Giants (123) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Chargers (124). THE SITUATION: New York (4-8) has lost two of their last three games after their 20-9 loss at Miami as a 6.5-point underdog last week. Los Angeles (7-5) has won two of their last three games with their 41-22 win at Cincinnati as a 2.5-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GIANTS PLUS THE POINTS: Despite their losing record, New York is playing much better on defense as of late. They have held five of their last six opponents to no more than 20 points. The Giants have forced multiple turnovers in five of their last eight games. Since Week Seven, New York is allowing just 16.0 Points-Per-Game and 4.8 Yards-Per-Play which both rank fourth-best in the NFL during that span. Opposing quarterbacks have a Passer Rating of 70.7 since Week Seven as well — the fifth-lowest mark in the league. The Giants should play better this week as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. New York has also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after losing two of their last three games. And they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not scoring more than 14 points in their last game. With quarterback Daniel Jones still nursing a neck injury, the Giants will have Mike Glennon under center once again this week. Glennon was just OK last week — he completed 23 of 44 passes for 187 yards with an interception. One of the problems for the Giants is that Jones is not putting up much better numbers at this point in his career. Glennon is a capable backup with a completion percentage of 60.8% in 1049 career passing attempts. He has 44 touchdown passes to just 28 interceptions. The Giants have been ravaged with injuries but they are getting healthier with Saquon Barkley getting 17 touches last week in his third week back since missing over a month. It was encouraging for New York to limit the Dolphins to just 68 rushing yards last week — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 90 rushing yards in their last game. The Giants have been reliable on the road where they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 29 games away from home — and they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games as an underdog. Los Angeles has been inconsistent this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win by at least two touchdowns. The Chargers are also only 8-22-1 ATS in their last 31 games after a game where they scored at least 30 points. After taking a 24-0 lead against the Bengals, Los Angeles let the Bengals back in the game with Cincinnati scoring a potential game-tying touchdown before they missed the two-point conversion. The Chargers then recovered a fumble on their 39-yard line which they returned for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter to take a nine-point lead and re-take control of the game. That upset victory was Los Angeles’ first point spread cover in their last four games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games at home after only covering the point spread once in their last three games. The Chargers return home where they are only 3-3 — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home with the Total set in the 42.5 to 45 range. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 home games against teams with a losing record on the road — and they are 5-13-1 ATS in their last 19 games at home when favored. The Chargers’ challenge is complicated with a COVID outbreak in their locker room. Wide receiver Keenan Allen is out and wide receiver Mike Williams is among a handful of players questionable as they look to clear quarantine protocols.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points — and New York has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games as an underdog getting 7.5 to 14 points. The Giants’ defense should keep them in this game against a Chargers’ team that had allowed at least 24 points in seven straight games before the Bengals only scored 22 points. 25* NFL Underdog of the Month with the New York Giants (123) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Chargers (124). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Minnesota Vikings (102) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (101). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (5-7) has lost two games in a row after their 29-27 upset loss at Detroit as a 7-point favorite last week. Pittsburgh (6-5-1) snapped a three-game winless streak with a 20-19 upset win against Baltimore as a 4-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE VIKINGS MINUS THE POINTS: Minnesota has a losing record despite outscoring and out-gaining their opponents this season. All seven of their losses have been by one-scoring possession. They have scored at least 26 points in five straight games. This is as near a “gotta have it” game for the Vikings as there will be. They have typically played well under situations like this under head coach Mike Zimmer. Minnesota has covered the point spread in 42 of their last 61 games after a straight-up loss. Additionally, they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after an upset loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after a loss to a division rival. And in their last 5 games after a loss by three points or less, the Vikings have covered the point spread 4 times. Minnesota has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after losing two games in a row. Quarterback Kirk Cousins will not have wide receiver Adam Thielen tonight with him being out with an ankle injury — but his productivity outside the Red Zone has declined this season. Dalvin Cook is a game-time decision to return to action earlier than expected from his shoulder injury — but Alexander Mattison is a very good running back if he does play. Cousins is enjoying a great season, albeit under the radar. He is completing 68.4% of his passes for over 3300 yards with 25 touchdown passes and just three interceptions. He has not tossed an interception in 246 straight pass attempts. Pittsburgh may be due for an emotional letdown after grinding out a win against their arch-rivals in the Ravens. As it is, the Steelers have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset loss. Additionally, Pittsburgh has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread victory. The Steelers go back on the road for the third time in their last four games — and doing so on a short week will be a challenge. Pittsburgh has surrendered 41 points in each of their last two games away from home — and they are giving up 27.0 PPG and 389.4 total Yards-Per-Game on the road. Injuries have made things worse for the Steel Curtain — they are without cornerback Joe Haden and linebacker Robert Spillane. Pittsburgh has failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against teams with a losing record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games in December. The Steelers have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against NFC foes.

FINAL TAKE: The Vikings have been a disappointment in losing seven closes games this season — but they have finally completed a difficult stretch with four of their last five games being on the road. The last time they played at home, they upset Green Bay — and this will be an angry and embarrassed team after they shipped the Lions their first win of the year. 25* NFL Thursday Night Football Game of the Year with the Minnesota Vikings (102) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (101). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Buffalo Bills (476) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (475). THE SITUATION: Buffalo (7-4) has won two of their last three games after their 31-6 win at New Orleans as a 7-point favorite last week. New England (8-4) won their sixth straight game in a row with their 36-13 victory against Tennessee as a 7.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BILLS MINUS THE POINTS: My initial thought for this situation was to prefer Buffalo but I do like to make final decisions with fresh eyes. The biggest questions for tonight's game are (1) how significant of an impact will the weather have on the game and (2) how significant is the line movement in reaction to the weather? After waiting for the early afternoon forecast to make my final calls, the temperates appear destined to be in the 20s (wind chill in the teens) with winds 25-35 MPH and gusting up to 40 MPH. Precipitation does not seem likely by game-time -- so probably not blizzard conditions. I think there is a significant edge at Quarterback tonight. Josh Allen played four years in the cold at Wyoming. His big arm can cut through the wind a bit more -- and he has a few more years of big games under his belt. I like Mac Jones but his arm strength is not one of his best qualities (accuracy, decision-making, intellect) -- and his background is Florida then Alabama. Will these be the coldest temperatures he has ever played in? As it is, the New England offense only averages 309.0 total Yards-Per-Game on the road — a drop-off of -46.3 net YPG from their season average. Jones averages only 178 passing YPG in his five starts on the road with his 231 passing yards at Houston being his season-high away from home. The Patriots' recent winning streak has been fueled by them winning the turnover battle in each of those six games. They have forced four turnovers in two straight games while committing just one turnover themselves in those two games — but they have failed to cover the point spread 6 of their last 8 games after enjoying a +3 or better turnover margin in each of their last two games. New England surrendered 270 rushing yards to a Titans team without Derrick Henry last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 150 rushing yards in their last game. Buffalo is 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 games after a victory by 14 or more points. The Bills are also 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. Buffalo gained 361 yards against the Saints last week — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last contest. The Bills held New Orleans to just 190 total yards — and they are 9-1-2 ATS after not allowing more than 250 yards in their last game. Buffalo held the Saints to just 44 rushing yards as well — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after not allowing more than 90 rushing yards in their last game. The Patriots will lean heavily on running the football on the road and in these weather conditions — but the Bills are fourth in the NFL by allowing just 3.9 rushing Yards-Per-Carry. Buffalo returns home where they are outscoring their guests by +8.8 Points-Per-Game and outgains them by +135.4 net Yards-Per-Game. The Bills are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games at home — and they are 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 home games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Buffalo has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games in December. The Patriots have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in December. 25* AFC East Game of the Year with the Buffalo Bills (476) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (475). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Kansas City (458) minus the points versus the Denver Broncos (457). THE SITUATION: Kansas City (7-4) has won four games in a row after their 19-9 win against Dallas as a 2.5-point favorite two weeks ago. Denver (6-5) has won three of their last four games after their 28-13 upset win against the Los Angeles Chargers as a 2.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHIEFS MINUS THE POINTS: Kansas City has won their last two games by double-digits — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after winning their last two games by 10 or more points. The Chiefs gained 370 yards against the Cowboys' defense — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last game. Kansas City is on a winning streak due to the improved play of their defense. Acquiring linebacker defensive end Melvin Ingram from Pittsburgh allowed Chris Jones to move back inside to defensive tackle where he prefers — and he has thrived. The Chiefs have not allowed more than 17 points in four straight games — and they have held their last three opponents to 10.0 PPG and just 292.0 total YPG. Don’t count out a defense coached by Steve Spagnuolo to improve as the season moves on. Kansas City has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games in December. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after not allowing more than 17 points in two straight games. The Chiefs stay at home where they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Denver is just 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a win by 14 or more points. The Broncos offense is limited with Teddy Bridgewater under center. They are scoring just 20.7 PPG — and they have scored under 20 points in five of their last eight games. Bridgewater completed 11 of 18 passes for 129 yards last week. While a quarterback that is allergic to taking chances is a good fit with a defense-first team, his unwillingness to throw the ball down the field makes it difficult to stay competitive with a team that averages 25.5 PPG.

FINAL TAKE: Denver has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against fellow AFC opponents. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Kansas City (458) minus the points versus the Denver Broncos (457). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Chargers (463) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (464). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (6-5) has lost two of their last three games after a 28-13 upset loss at Denver as a 2.5-point favorite last week. Cincinnati (7-4) has won two in a row after their 41-10 win against Pittsburgh as a 3.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHARGERS PLUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles outgained the Broncos last week by +55 net yards after holding Denver to just 302 yards. Denver benefited from a 70-yard interception returned for a touchdown to flip the score. The Chargers have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after an upset loss by 14 or more points. Los Angeles is playing close games — two of their losses were by just three points apiece. They are outgaining their opponents by +33.6 net Yards-Per-Game. They stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 road games with the Total set at 49.5 or higher. Cincinnati dominated their arch-rivals in the Steelers last week which may set them up for an emotional letdown. The Bengals have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win at home. And while Cincinnati has scored at least 73 combined points in their last two weeks, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 25 points in their last two games. Led by Joe Mixon, the Bengals rushed for 198 yards last week — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after rushing for at least 150 yards in their last game. The Chargers give up a lot of rushing yards — but that is because they are focusing on defending the pass. Los Angeles only allows 331.2 total Yards-Per-Game on the road. Cincinnati is only outgaining their opponents by +7.3 net YPG despite their 7-4 record — and they are getting outgained when playing at home. The Bengals have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road (Chargers: 3-2 on the road). Four of Cincinnati’s wins have come against Detroit, Jacksonville, and Pittsburgh twice. They are just 3-4 against the rest of their competition. And Joe Burrow has been sacked 13 times in the last four weeks — the second-most of all quarterbacks during that span. Now here comes the Chargers’ Joey Bosa.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles is 35-16-4 ATS in their last 55 road games as an underdog. 25* AFC Underdog of the Month with the Los Angeles Chargers (463) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (464). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (321) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (322) in the Big Ten Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Iowa (10-2) has won four straight games after their 28-21 upset win at Nebraska as a 2-point underdog on Friday. Michigan (11-1) upset Ohio State by a 42-27 score as a 6.5-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES PLUS THE POINTS: The Wolverines slayed their proverbial white whale in the Buckeyes last week. I expect an emotional letdown — and then the pressure will kick in that losing this game will spoil their college playoff aspirations. As it is, Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after an upset victory. The Wolverines have also failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 34 games on the road after a game where at least 60 combined points were scored. And while their win against Ohio State came after a 59-18 win at Maryland, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after playing at least two straight games where at least 60 combined points were scored. Michigan did allow 394 passing yards last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after allowing at least 375 passing yards in their last contest. The Wolverines allow 17.2 Points-Per-Game and 319.4 total Yards-Per-Game — but those numbers rise to 23.6 PPG and 345.4 total YPG when playing away from the Big House. Nebraska scored 29 points against them and Michigan State put up 37 points against them with those games not in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. Iowa has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games on the road after a win on the road in their last game. Scoring is the biggest concern for this team — but head coach Kirk Ferentz is turning to Spencer Petras as his starter who has a better deep ball. The Hawkeyes have been better on offense in their last four games where they are averaging 5.0 Yards-Per-Play and 4.0 Yards-Per-Carry — as opposed to the 4.0 YPP and 2.8 rushing YPC averages in their first eight games. Iowa is elite with their other two phases of the game with their defense and special teams. They hold their opponents to 17.3 PPG — and they are ninth in the nation in points allowed per drive. They generate points from their defense and special teams units — they have six non-offensive touchdowns this season and that is not a fluke under Ferentz. The Hawkeyes are third in the nation with a +13 net turnover margin. The analytics community is too quick to consider this “luck” — but forcing turnovers is a skill that is taught. Where the bouncing (or tipped) ball goes can be a function of luck — but forcing the fumble or tipped pass is a skill. Iowa has won the turnover battle in their last two games — and they have covered the point spread in 24 of their last 35 road games after posting a +1 or better net turnover margin in two straight games. ESPN’s SP+ metrics rate Iowa’s special teams as the fifth-best unit in the nation. This formula for success is why Iowa is 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog — and they are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Iowa has not been a double-digit underdog since 2017. Michigan only beat teams with a similar profile — Nebraska and Penn State — by 3 and 4 points. Mistakes and turnovers were the reason why they lost to Michigan State. The Wolverines have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on a neutral field — and they are 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games when favored on a neutral field. Michigan just wants to escape with a win — covering doesn’t matter. Expect plenty of nervy moments for the Wolverines tonight. 20* CFB Iowa-Michigan Fox-TV Special with the Iowa Hawkeyes (321) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (322). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Houston Cougars (313) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (314) in the American Athletic Conference Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Houston (11-1) has won eleven straight games after their 45-17 win at UConn as a 32-point favorite on Saturday. Cincinnati (12-0) remained unbeaten with their 35-13 win at East Carolina as a 14.5-point favorite on Friday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COUGARS PLUS THE POINTS: I expect this to be a nervy game for the Bearcats with their spot in the college football playoff likely secured with a victory. Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a win on the road against a conference rival. The Bearcats have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a point spread cover as a double-digit favorite. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after winning at least seen in a row. After a stretch of games that included one-score wins against Navy and Tulsa, Cincinnati has outgained their last three opponents by at least +150 yards. But the Bearcats have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after outgaining their last three opponents by at least 150 net yards. Cincinnati has shown some cracks in their armor when playing teams who can get to the quarterback. Desmond Ridder has been sacked 18 times this season — and he was sacked eight times in their bowl game loss against Georgia last year. The Bearcats score 46 PPG when Ridder faces a pressure rate no higher than 15% — but that scoring average drops by 11 PPG in the games when he faced a pressure rate higher than 15%. Here comes Houston that has a pressure rate of 40% on the quarterback. The Cougars are sixth in the nation by sacking the quarterback in 10% of their dropbacks. Houston is second in the nation in Havoc Rate and fifth in Pressure Rate. They have seven players with at least 3.5 sacks — so this is a balanced unit that does not rely heavily on the blitz to apply pressure. Overall, “Sack Avenue” is fourth in the nation with 41 team sacks. Houston is seventh in the nation by holding their opponents to 4.6 Yards-Per-Play. They are tough against the run and the pass — they rank 12th in the nation in opponent Rush Success Rate and second in the FBS in opponent Pass Success Rate. The Cougars' offense is dynamic as well as they have scored at least 40 points seven times. Quarterback Clayton Tune is completing 69% of his passes and averaging 8.5 Yards-Per-Attempt. In his last seven starts, Tune has 19 touchdown passes to just two interceptions. In their eleven-game winning streak, Houston has outscored their opponents by +22.1 PPG. They gained 472 yards last week against the Huskies — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Cougars have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win on the road. They have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a win where they did not cover the point spread. Houston is also 20-7-1 ATS in their last 28 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen assembled a bunch of talent taking full advantage of the transfer portal started by his de-facto tank job in 2019 when he redshirted a number of his players before using up their eligibility. The fruits of those efforts are now being realized. Cincinnati is just 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games in December. 20* CFB Houston-Cincinnati ABC-TV Special with Houston Cougars (313) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (314). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the UL-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (312) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (311) in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game. THE SITUATION: UL-Lafayette (11-1) has won 11 straight games after their 21-16 win against UL-Monroe as a 21.5-point favorite on Saturday. Appalachian State (10-2) has won six straight games after their 27-3 win against Georgia Southern as a 24.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAGIN’ CAJUNS PLUS THE POINTS: This will be head coach Billy Napier’s last game with Louisiana before he takes on his new job as head coach of the Florida Gators. Napier has been pulling double-duty this week getting his new staff together in Gainesville while beginning his recruiting for Florida — and that may scare off some bettors. His coordinators are still on the case for this game — and Napier is quite familiar with Appalachian State. I see things in the opposite way — this contest offers Napier and his players the culmination of a long journey where beating the Mountaineers in the championship game and winning a Sun Belt championship is the final goal for this program. The Ragin’ Cajuns have lost twice to Appalachian State in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game under Napier before not getting the chance to play for the title last season against Coastal Carolina due to a COVID outbreak canceling the game. UL-Louisiana has appeared to lack motivation at times this season. They have five wins against inferior opponents by just one scoring possession — however, they also crushed Appalachian State and Liberty in statement victories by 28 points apiece. Being listed as the underdog should stick anger them — and they have pulled the upset in five of their last seven games in the role of the underdog under Napier. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They get to host this game where they are 6-0 with an average winning margin of +20.0 Points-Per-Game and a ++143.8 net Yards-Per-Game mark. The Ragin’ Cajuns hold their guest to just 14.0 PPG and 301.5 net YPG. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as an underdog. Furthermore, they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Appalachian State has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. The Mountaineers have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not allowing more than 10 points in their last game against a conference opponent. They held the Eagles to just 194 yards last week — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last contest. And in their last 12 games after winning at least five straight games, Appalachian State has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of these games. The Mountaineers play on the road for this contest — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: UL-Lafayette finally defeated Appalachian State last December in a regular-season game to avenge those two previous losses in the Sun Belt Conference Championship Game in 2018 and 2019. The Ragin’ Cajuns followed that up with a 41-13 throttling of the Mountaineers at home on October 12th this season in a game where they outgained them by +244 yards despite being a +4.5-point underdog. Appalachian State has revenge on their minds — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when avenging an upset loss. The dog has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in this series. The Louisiana players love Napier — I think they play hard for him today in a program-defining moment. 25* CFB Sun Belt Conference Game of the Year with the UL-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (312) plus the points versus the Appalachian State Mountaineers (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Oregon Ducks (305) plus the points versus the Utah Utes (306) in the Pac-12 Championship Game. THE SITUATION: Oregon (10-2) comes off a 38-29 win against Oregon State as a 7.5-point favorite last week. Utah (9-3) has won five straight games after their 28-13 victory against Colorado as a 24-point favorite last Friday. This game is being played on a neutral field at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

REASONS TO TAKE THE DUCKS PLUS THE POINTS: Oregon gets the opportunity to redeem themselves from a 38-7 loss to the Utes in Salt Lake City back on November 20th. That was probably the Ducks’ worst game of the season. The wheels fell off in the second quarter where Utah scored two touchdowns to take a 21-0 lead before returning a punt for 78 yards at the end of the half to go into the locker room down 28-0. We had the Utes that game — I liked the situation for them then. I like the Ducks now in what I see as a coin flip game on a neutral field. Oregon rebounded last week in their rivalry game with Oregon State. The Ducks generated 506 yards in the contest — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last contest. Oregon has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a win at home against a conference rival. They held a 24-3 halftime lead in the game — and they have covered the point spread in 46 of their last 60 games after not allowing more than a field goal in the first half of their last game. And while the Ducks had been on a five-game winning streak before their loss to the Utes, they have then covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning four of their last five games. Furthermore, Oregon has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games on a neutral field as an underdog getting up to seven points. Utah has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games on a neutral field — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on a neutral field as a favorite. The Utes have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. And while they held the Buffaloes to just 148 yards, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. Utah plays their best defense in the high altitude in Salt Lake City where they hold their opponents to just 15.8 PPG. But in their six games on the road, they are just 3-3 while allowing their opponents to score 27.2 PPG.

FINAL TAKE: The Utes have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when favored. Oregon has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. The Ducks have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in December. 10* CFB Oregon-Utah ABC-TV Special with the Oregon Ducks (305) plus the points versus the Utah Utes (306). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the UTSA Road Runners (304) plus the points versus the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (303) in Conference USA Championship Game. THE SITUATION: UTSA (11-1) comes off their first loss of the season last week in a 45-23 upset loss at North Texas as a 9.5-point favorite. Western Kentucky (8-4) has won seven straight games after their 53-21 win at Marshall as a 1-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ROADRUNNERS PLUS THE POINTS: UTSA had little at stake last week after clinching the opportunity to host this conference championship game the previous week with a 34-31 victory against UAB. While a perfect record would be nice for head coach Jeff Traylor, the most important goals are winning the first conference championship in program history and then winning the first bowl game in conference history. After committing some early turnovers in bad weather in Denton last week, Traylor pulled his starters with the writing on the wall for that game (against a Mean Green team motivated to become bowl eligible) to rest for this showdown. UTSA should respond with a strong effort. The Roadrunners have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a loss by at least 20 points. UTSA has also covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a loss to a conference rival. Now the Roadrunners return home where they are 6-0 this season with an average winning margin of +22.2 net Points-Per-Game. They outgain their visitors by +162.0 net Yards-Per-Game because of their defense that holds these guests to just 13.0 PPG and 239.5 total YPG. UTSA has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Roadrunners bring a balanced offense into this game led by quarterback Frank Harris and running back Sincere Mitchell. Harris is a dual-threat who is completing 66.3% of his passes — and he has 23 touchdown passes to just five interceptions. McCormick has rushed for more than 1000 yards in two straight seasons. UTSA has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games as an underdog. Western Kentucky has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after a win on the road in conference play. With their new Air Raid offense this season led by quarterback Bailey Zappe, the Hilltoppers are second in the nation by scoring 43.2 PPG. But UTSA has seen this offense already in their 52-46 victory at Western Kentucky as a 3.5-point underdog on October 9th. The Hilltoppers’ defense is a concern as they are tied for 87th in the nation by allowing 407.6 total Yards-Per-Game. Their ability to stop the pass is the biggest concern as they rank 113th in the nation by allowing 261.9 passing YPG. Harris completed 28 of 38 passes for 349 yards with six touchdown passes in the first meeting. Western Kentucky is surviving high-scoring games with their last four contests seeing at least 63 combined points — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after playing at least four straight games where at least 60 combined points were scored.

FINAL TAKE: Western Kentucky is the trendy pick in this game because of the revenge angle and that they have lost all three of their games decided by one scoring possession — and UTSA has won all five of their games decided by one scoring possession. But don’t underestimate the confidence of an older team in their ability to win close games — especially when they are playing at home (and at night). The Roadrunners have covered the point spread in 5 straight games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* CFB Conference USA Game of the Year with the UTSA Road Runners (304) plus the points versus the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (303). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Dallas Cowboys (301) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (302). THE SITUATION: Dallas (7-4) has lost two straight games and three of their last four after a 36-33 upset loss at home to Las Vegas as a 7-point favorite on Thursday. New Orleans (5-6) has lost three in a row after their 31-6 loss to Buffalo as a 7-point underdog on Thursday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COWBOYS MINUS THE POINTS: The injury update for the Saints this morning was not good. Running back Alvin Kamara will miss his fourth straight game — he is the team’s best weapon on offense. New Orleans will also be without their bookend tackles with Terron Armstead and Ryan Ramczyk out again this week with knee injuries. It is not just that the Saints are missing starting tackles, it is that Armstead and Ramczyk are two of the best offensive linemen in football. These absences simply cripple this offense that is already without top wide receiver Michael Thomas and starting quarterback Jameis Winston. But it is not just the offense that is missing key players. Their best pass rusher, Marcus Davenport, is out once again with a shoulder. New Orleans is also without defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon and linebacker Kaden Ellis. This is just too much for head coach Sean Payton to overcome in what was already a rebuilding season. Taysom Hill gets the start at quarterback — but he was unable to win the job in the preseason over Jameis Winston. Hill has thrown only eight passes with 20 rushing attempts this season. If he was such a dangerous threat as a dual-threat, he would be averaging more than 4.5 touches of the football per game (when healthy). Who is he going to throw to? And it is not as if Hill is the only mobile quarterback in the league. Having to defend running quarterbacks is standard fare in the NFL. New Orleans is scoring only 18.7 PPG and averaging 295.3 total Yards-Per-Game in their last three games. They have allowed 31 PPG in their last four games — and they have surrendered 167.5 rushing YPG in their last two games. The Saints have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games after a double-digit loss at home. They are 1-3 at home this season where they have failed to cover the point spread 3 times. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Dallas is getting healthier with wide receivers Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb expected back on the field and defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence healthy again. The Cowboys need a win — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. Dallas has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 30 points. Dak Prescott played much better last week after looking rusty two weeks ago. He completed 32 of 47 passes for 375 yards with two touchdown passes despite not having Cooper and Lamb as targets. The Cowboys have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last game. And while they gave up 509 yards to the Raiders with 366 coming in the air, they have then covered the point spread in 18 of their last 24 games after allowing at least 350 passing yards. Dallas goes back on the road where they are 3-2 — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road. The Cowboys have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games when favored by up to seven points. Dallas has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when laying 3.5 to 9.5 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Cowboys have covered the point spread in 6 straight games against NFC opponents — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a losing record. New Orleans has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams from the NFC — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games against teams with a winning record. 10* NFL Dallas-New Orleans Fox-TV Special with the Dallas Cowboys (301) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (302). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Seattle Seahawks (273) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Washington Football Team (274). THE SITUATION: Seattle (3-7) lost their fifth game in their last six after their 23-13 upset loss to Arizona as a 4.5-point favorite last Sunday. Washington (4-6) pulled off their second straight upset victory with their 27-21 win at Carolina as a 3-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SEAHAWKS: This is a fishy line at first glance. The Football team has just upset Tampa Bay and Carolina — and now they host a reeling Seahawks team but they are not favorite? This is a “gotta have it” game for Seattle — and they have been pretty reliable in these situations under head coach Pete Carroll who has overseen this franchise with the most active consecutive winning seasons in the NFL. Bill Belichick does not hold that distinction. Nor does Mike Tomlin or Andy Reid or Sean Payton. It’s Pete Carroll. Seattle is 36-16-4 ATS in their last 56 games after a straight-up win. The Seahawks have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss to a NFC West opponent. Furthermore, Seattle has covered the point spread in 5 straight games after losing two in a row — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after losing three of their last four games. Quarterback Russell Wilson has struggled in his two games since returning, perhaps prematurely, from his finger injury. He did play better last week against the Cardinals than he did in his first game back against Green Bay in a shutout loss. In hindsight, those were two tough assignments against the stout Packers and Cardinals defenses. And the Seahawks only had the ball for 19:38 minutes in the game. In his third week back, I do expect Wilson to look closer to his old self. Seattle has covered the point spread in 41 of their last 61 games after not scoring more than 17 points in two straight games. The Seahawks go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games as an underdog. Seattle’s defense has steadily improved this season — they have held their last three opponents to 15.7 PPG. Washington controlled time of possession against the Panthers in their six-point victory — they were on offense for 35:53 minutes. The Football Team rushed for 190 yards in the win — but they have failed to cover the point spread 19 of their last 25 home games after rushing for at least 175 yards in their last game. Washington allowed only 297 yards to Carolina but they did give up 6.2 Yards-Per-Play. The Football Team has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after allowing at least 6.2 YPP in their last game. Washington returns home where they are 2-3 while allowing 26.7 PPG and 391.2 total YPG. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games as an underdog getting up to seven points. Washington has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: The Football Team has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games on Monday Night Football. Wilson has led the Seahawks to victory in ten of his twelve starts on Monday Night Football — and Seattle has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on Monday Night Football. 25* NFL Monday Night Football Game of the Month with the Seattle Seahawks (273) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Washington Football Team (274). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Cleveland Browns (271) plus the points versus the Baltimore Ravens (272). THE SITUATION: Cleveland (6-5) has won two of their last three games after a 13-10 win at home against Detroit as a 14-point favorite last week. Baltimore (7-3) has also won two of their last three games with their 16-13 win at Chicago as a 1-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BROWNS PLUS THE POINTS: Cleveland has not looked very good in the last two weeks. They were flat against the winless Lions last week despite wanting to make a statement after their embarrassing 45-7 loss in New England the prior week. But injuries have played a role in the Browns’ subpar play — and they are getting healthy again. Nick Chubb returned to action last week to run the ball 22 times for 130 yards. Now both All-Pro right tackle Jack Conklin and running back Kareem Hunt are expected to play tonight. Cleveland is a different team when their potent ground game is at full strength. The Browns have scored 41 or more points twice this season. They should raise their level of play in this AFC North showdown as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a win at home where they did not cover the point spread. Cleveland held the Lions to only 245 yards last week — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not allowing more than 350 yards in their last game. Baker Mayfield has been in a funk — but he loves playing against the Ravens. In his six career starts against Baltimore, Mayfield has thrown for at least 300 yards four times — and he has averaged 297 passing YPG in those six games. The rushing attack of the Browns travels — they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games as an underdog. Furthermore, Cleveland has covered the point spread in 5 straight road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams winning 60-75% of their games. Baltimore has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread win. And while Baltimore gave up 353 yards to Bears’ defense, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. The Ravens return home after a two-game road trip — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 37 of their last 57 games after playing their last two games on the road. Baltimore has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home with the Total set in the 45.5 to 49 point range. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games when favored by up to seven points. The Ravens have failed to score more than 17 points in three of their last four games. Lamar Jackson is expected to play tonight (he claimed to be “120%” confident he will play) after missing last week because of a non-COVID illness. But the Ravens have yet to demonstrate they have the full fix to the eight-man front that Miami deployed against them in their loss on Thursday Night Football that took away Jackson’s rushing lanes and forced him to pass. Baltimore scored only 10 points with 304 total yards against the Dolphins.

FINAL TAKE: The Ravens have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in November. 25* AFC North Game of the Month with the Cleveland Browns (271) plus the points versus the Baltimore Ravens (272). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:25 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Green Bay Packers (270) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (269). THE SITUATION: Green Bay (8-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 34-31 upset loss at Minnesota as a 1-point favorite last week. Los Angeles (7-3) looks to rebound from a 31-10 upset loss at San Francisco as a 3.5-point favorite back on November 15th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Green Bay has been very reliable in bounce-back situations coming off a loss. Since 2019, the Packers are 7-0 off a loss while averaging 30.0 Points-Per-Game and topping the 31-point threshold five times. Green Bay has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games after a point spread loss. The Packers should play better on defense after allowing the Vikings to generate 408 yards of offense. Green Bay has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after giving up at least 30 points in their last contest. The Packers did gain 467 yards against the Minnesota defense last week — and they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after gaining at least 350 yards. Green Bay has their ground game cranking behind A.J. Dillon who will have an elevated role this afternoon given the injury to Aaron Jones. The Packers are averaging 118 rushing YPG in their last four contests. They return home to Lambeau Field where they are 4-0 this season with an average winning margin of +15.0 PPG. Green Bay holds their guests to 11.0 PPG and 316.0 total YPG. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has an 18-2 record straight-up at home in his last 20 starts which makes the Pack a surprising underdog in this one. The Packers have covered the point spread in 4 straight home games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Part of the brilliance of Rodgers is that he is so careful with the football. He has thrown only one interception in his last 198 pass attempts (knock on wood …). Los Angeles may lead the NFL in Yards-Per-Play — but their only victory against a team with a winning record is Tampa Bay. The Rams have lost two in a row which halted a four-game winning streak — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after winning four or five of their last six games. I think “offensive genius” Sean McVay has become too enamored with the dopamine hit he receives when Matthew Stafford connects on a long pass. In his jouissance of no longer having to manage the play of Jared Goff, McVay has abandoned the play-action rushing attack that made the offense so effective in propelling the Rams’ Super Bowl run. The Rams only rushed for 52 yards against the 49ers — and they have failed to generate more than 94 rushing yards in three of their last four games. Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after rushing for at least 90 yards in their last game. I also think that McVay has overrated the talents of Stafford. I like Stafford — and I think he has incredible natural ability. His decision-making was sometimes questionable with Detroit — and he certainly lacks big-time playoff experience even going back to his days with Georgia. I think he got lulled into forcing the football to Calvin Johnson when those two stars were paired together — and I think he matured as a quarterback and as a leader after Johnson’s premature retirement. The addition of Odell Beckham worries me because it may play into McVay’s dopamine addiction for the long ball and because Stafford may succumb to the pressure to get him the football rather than taking what the defense offers him. Maybe the Rams are the organization where Beckham will stop being failed by everyone around him — or perhaps Beckham is part of the problem. Granted, they need him now after the season-ending injury to Robert Woods. Stafford’s four interceptions in his last two starts are as many as he had in his first eight starts with his new team. He has also been sacked seven times in the last two games. These mistakes have helped their opponents score 17 and 21 points in the first half in the last two games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 27 games after allowing at least 17 points in the first half in two straight games. Maybe McVay fixed these problems during the bye week — but the Rams are just 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games in November.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when favored — and Green Bay has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog. The Packers have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record. 25* NFL Game of the Month with the Green Bay Packers (270) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (269). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Steelers (263) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (264). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (5-4-1) looks to rebound from a 41-37 loss in Los Angeles against the Chargers as a 6-point underdog last Sunday. Cincinnati (6-4) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 32-13 victory at Las Vegas as a 2.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE STEELERS PLUS THE POINTS: The Pittsburgh defense was hit hard with injuries last week but head coach Mike Tomlin expects T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick to be back for this game (but cornerback Joe Haden appears doubtful to play). Fitzpatrick is an outstanding safety — but getting Watt back on the field is a game-changer. The Steelers are 0-4 without Watt this season — and he loves playing against the Bengals. Pittsburgh has a 7-1 record with Watt against Cincinnati — and he has eight sacks, 12 quarterback hits, eight more tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles in those contests. The encouraging aspect of the Steelers' loss last week was the offense scoring 37 points. Ben Roethlisberger completed 28 of 44 passes for 273 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions in the loss in his return to action after being out with COVID. In his last five starts, Roethlisberger has nine touchdown passes — and he is the only quarterback in the league without an interception during that span. Pittsburgh is 7-0-1 ATS in their last 8 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. The Steelers are a reliable road team under Tomlin. They are 34-15-2 ATS in their last 51 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games. Pittsburgh is also 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 road games as an underdog. Cincinnati only gained 288 total yards in their victory against the Raiders last week despite controlling the clock for 37:20 minutes in that game. They averaged a mere 4.2 Yards-Per-Play. The Bengals have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread victory. Cincinnati has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game. Joe Mixon led the way for the Bengals last week as he spearheaded a ground game that generated 159 rushing yards — but Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after rushing for at least 150 yards in their last game. The Bengals return home where they have a 2-2 record but they are getting outscored by -4.9 PPG and getting outgained by -17.5 net Yards-Per-Game. Cincinnati only scores 22.3 PPG at home. The Bengals have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: The Steelers will be motivated to avenge a 24-10 upset loss at home to Cincinnati as a 2.5-point favorite on September 26th. Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 22 of their last 33 games when avenging an upset loss as a home favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when playing with revenge on their minds from a loss at home by at least 14 points. 10* NFL Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the Pittsburgh Steelers (263) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bengals (264). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the California Golden Bears (201) plus the points versus the UCLA Bruins (202). THE SITUATION: California (4-6) has won three of their last four games with their 41-11 victory at Stanford last week as a 2.5-point favorite. UCLA (7-4) has won two in a row with their 62-33 win at USC as a 4.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: Cal is playing their best football of the season — and they should build off their momentum tonight. The Golden Bears have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by 20 or more points. Cal got their senior quarterback Chase Garbers back last week after he was injured for their previous game against Arizona when the team was hit hard by COVID in a 10-3 upset loss. The Bears had over 20 players out for that game with the Wildcats. Now with four wins and with their postponed game with USC on deck next week, bowl eligibility remains a real possibility. Garbers completed 17 of 26 passes for 246 yards with two touchdown passes — and he added another 59 rushing yards on the ground. Garbers has posted a QBR of 82 or better in each of his last three starts with seven touchdown passes and one interception. Cal gained 636 yards in the win against the Cardinal — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Golden Bears gained 325 of those yards on the ground — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after rushing for at least 200 yards in their last game. Cal’s defense has played better as of late as well — they have held their last three opponents to just 15.3 PPG and 330.0 total Yards-Per-Game. Cal has been a very tough underdog over the years as they are 22-7-1 ATS in their last 30 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 13 road games as a dog. The Golden Bears have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. UCLA comes off the rivalry game win against USC —  but they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a win by 20 or more points. The Bruins have won and covered the point spread as a favorite in their last two games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after covering their last two games as the favorite. Dorian Thompson-Robinson completed 16 of 22 passes for 349 yards in the win last week — but they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. But the play of the defense has regressed as of late. In their last three games, UCLA has allowed 32.3 PPG and 437.3 total YPG. The Bruins rank just 112th in the nation in Opponent’s Rush Success Rate. UCLA hosts this game at home in the Rose Bowl — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Five of Cal’s six losses have been by one scoring possession. They have covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record. UCLA’s motivation for this game is questionable after their rivalry game and a bowl game clinched but with no chance of playing in the Pac-12 Championship Game next week. 25* CFB Pac-12 Game of the Year with the California Golden Bears (201) plus the points versus the UCLA Bruins (202). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:45 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Virginia Cavaliers (176) minus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (175). THE SITUATION: Virginia (6-5) has lost three straight games after their 48-38 loss at Pittsburgh as a 13-point underdog last week. Virginia Tech (5-6) has lost two of their last three games with their 38-26 loss at Miami (FL) as a 7-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CAVALIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Virginia did get back quarterback Brennan Armstrong after he missed time with an injury. The southpaw completed 36 of 49 passes for 487 yards with three touchdown passes in the loss. The Cavaliers were only outgained by -4 yards to the Panthers by generating 504 total yards — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Virginia has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread win. And they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. Armstrong threw an interception which accounted for the lone Cavaliers turnover — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 home games after not committing more than one turnover in their last game. They return home where they are 4-2 this season with an average winning margin of +13.7 PPG — and they outgain their guests by +123.0 Yards-Per-Game. Virginia has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games when favored — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Virginia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. And while the Hokies committed only one turnover against the Hurricanes, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after not committing more than one turnover in their last game. This team is playing under interim head coach J.C. Price who took over after Justin Fuente was fired two weeks ago. Virginia Tech stays on the road where they are just 1-3 with an average losing margin of -5.8 PPG. They only score 19.0 PPG while averaging 317.5 total YPG on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Virginia will be looking to avenge a 33-15 loss to the Hokies last season — so they will be very motivated to end their struggles against this team. Virginia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as an underdog. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Virginia Cavaliers (176) minus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (175). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Florida Gators (226) minus the points versus the Florida State Seminoles (225). THE SITUATION: Florida (5-6) has lost four of their last five games after their 24-23 upset loss at Missouri in overtime last Saturday. Florida State (5-6) has registered two straight upset victories after their 26-23 upset win at Boston College as a 3-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GATORS MINUS THE POINTS: The streaking Seminoles upset Miami (FL) two weeks ago by a 31-28 score. But Florida State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after winning two games in a row by six points or less. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after an upset win against an ACC opponent — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after an upset win as a road underdog. They stay on the road where they are getting outscored by -4.5 PPG and getting outgained by -76.3 net YPG. The Seminoles defense gives up too many big plays — they rank 120th in Explosiveness Allowed. They give up 402.8 total YPG and 28.3 PPG in their four games on the road. They are just 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 road games — and they are 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 road games as an underdog. Florida plays their first game since Dan Mullen was fired as their head coach in just his second season with the team. It sure looks like many of the players stopped playing for him two weeks ago when they were getting trounced at home against Samford. The Gators rebounded in the second half to win that game by 18 points — but giving up 52 points to an FCS team is troubling. They had not allowed more than 31 points at home all season before that game — and that was in a 2-point loss to mighty Alabama. This remains one of the most talented teams in the nation who played the Crimson Tide tough earlier this year and in last year’s SEC Championship Game. A tough loss at LSU and then getting crushed against Georgia seems to have broken the team — and the players stopped responding to Mullen. Expect a spirited effort with Mullen now gone for interim head coach Greg Knox — it is the player’s way of communicating that he was the problem. Florida has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by seven points or less to a conference opponent. The Gators have only played one of their last six games at home — so getting back to the Swamp will help. They are 4-1 at home with an average winning margin of +20.6 net PPG and +155 net YPG marks. They score 42.8 PPG at home while generating 539.8 total YPG. With Emory Jones nursing an ankle injury, the talented Anthony Richardson gets the start at quarterback (which is fine). Florida has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games when favored — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Florida will be motivated to play on Senior Day with the opportunity to stick it to Mullen — and these players do not want the shame of not even becoming bowl eligible. Florida State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games in November — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games in games outside the ACC. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Florida Gators (226) minus the points versus the Florida State Seminoles (225). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Boston College Eagles (162) plus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (161). THE SITUATION: Boston College (6-5) had their two-game winning streak snapped with their 26-23 upset loss to Florida State as a 3-point favorite last Saturday. Wake Forest (9-2) has lost two of their last three games with their 48-27 loss at Clemson as a 3.5-point underdog last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE EAGLES PLUS THE POINTS: Boston College fell behind in the first half and went into the locker room with a 19-3 deficit before rallying to pull within three points with 10 minutes left to go in the game. But the Eagles could not score again to get upset by the Seminoles. That was the first loss for this team with a healthy Phil Jurkovec under center. Boston College is significantly better when he is leading the offense. Jurkovec averages 10.5 Yards-Per-Attempt in the passing game while generating 6.6 Yards-Per-Carry when rushing out of the backfield. The Eagles should bounce back this afternoon as they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games after suffering an upset loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after by three points or less. Boston College gets to host this game in the cold weather where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games. Furthermore, the Eagles have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when getting up to 7 points as a home dog. The Boston College defense will play a big role in this showdown in slowing down the Demon Deacons’ quarterback Sam Hartman. The Eagles rank 26th in opponent’s Pass Success Rate — and they limit their opponents to just 6.8 Yards-Per-Attempt in the passing game, ranking 33rd in the nation. Boston College holds their guests to just 19.2 PPG and 312.2 total YPG at home. Wake Forest has the pressure of needing to win this game to clinch their spot in the ACC Championship Game against Pittsburgh next week. While Hartman has led a powerful offense, it is the subpar play of the Demon Deacons’ defense that has exposed them against Clemson and North Carolina earlier this month. The Tigers rank just 117th in the nation in Pass Success Rate but were able to torch the Wake Forest defense for 10.5 Yards-Per-Attempt in the passing game and 543 total yards of offense. Clemson averaged 7.33 Yards-Per-Play last week — and the Demon Deacons have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight road games after allowing at least 6.25 YPP in their last game. Hartman tried to keep up as he completed 27 of 43 passes for 312 yards — but Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Hartman has been pressing with the defense being so easy to score on — he has six interceptions in his last three games. The Demon Deacons allow 30.8 PPG and 449.8 total YPG — and it is even worse away from home as they surrender 43.2 PPG and 540.8 total YPG in their five road games. Predictably, Wake Forest is 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Additionally, the Demon Deacons are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 road games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games when favored by 3.5 to 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Besides the opportunity to play the role of spoiler to Wake Forest’s ACC title chances, Boston College can avenge their 27-24 loss at home to the Demon Deacons on September 28th, 2019 in the last meeting between these two teams. Hartman quarterbacking in the cold Boston weather against an Eagles team that will score points may be too much to ask for the NFL prospect. 25* CFB ACC Underdog of the Year with the Boston College Eagles (162) plus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (161). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the East Carolina Pirates (156) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (155). THE SITUATION: East Carolina (7-4) has won four games in a row with their 38-35 win at Navy as a 3.5-point favorite last Saturday. Cincinnati (11-0) continued their unbeaten season with their 48-14 victory against SMU as a 10-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PIRATES PLUS THE POINTS: The Bearcats made a statement with their emphatic 34-point victory against a quality Mustangs team that entered that game with an 8-2 record. Cincinnati now finds themselves in the College Football Playoff top-four rankings this week — and they are locked into the American Athletic Conference Championship Game next week against Houston. Alas, the Bearcats walk into this emotional letdown and a look-ahead spot against the Pirates. Now road favorites still manage to cover all the time in these situations — so the issue becomes how vulnerable is Cincinnati in this spot and how dangerous of an underdog is East Carolina. On Issue One, the Bearcats are vulnerable to letdowns. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning two games in a row against conference foes. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after winning at least seven in a row. And while they have gained at least 506 yards in their last two games, they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 475 yards in two straight contests. They held the Mustangs pass offense to just 66 yards last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after not allowing more than 125 passing yards in their last game. The Bearcats have experienced scares from some middle-of-the-road conference opponents. They only beat Navy on the road by a touchdown. They defeated Tulsa at home by eight points. While they are scoring 40.0 PPG and averaging 429.7 total YPG, those numbers drop by a touchdown and more than 60 total YPG to 33.0 PPG and 368.4 total YPG marks when playing on the road. They also allow just under 26 more YPG away from home. Cincinnati has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 road games when laying 7.5 to 14 points. On Issue Two, East Carolina does have the pedigree of a dangerous but under-appreciated opponent. After a 3-6 campaign last year, head coach Mike Houston had 20 starters return for what is likely his best roster in his three years with the program. They are playing their best football at this point of the season having outscored their last three opponents by +15.4 PPG and outgaining them by +208.5 net YPG. After opening the season with understandable losses at Appalachian State and home to South Carolina, they have pulled off three upset victories against Memphis, Marshall, and Tulane. They lost on the road to Houston in overtime. They enter this game with momentum — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win. They generated 563 yards against the Midshipmen last week while outgaining them by +181 net yards. The Pirates are 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 games after gaining at least 450 yards — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +125 yards. Quarterback Holton Ahlers completed 27 of 32 passes for 405 yards with three touchdown passes in the win last week. He leads an offense scoring 37.7 PPG and generating 505.5 total YPG in their last three games. He can keep East Carolina competitive in this contest with his deep balls — he leads an offense that ranks 18th in the nation in Explosiveness. The Bearcats have played only two teams ranked in the top-25 in Offensive Explosiveness — and they rank 71st in the Pass Defense Explosiveness. The Pirates are 4-1 at home at Dowdy-Ficken Stadium where they outscore their opponents by +16.0 PPG. East Carolina has an underrated defense that holds their visitors to just 18.8 PPG -- and they have held their last three opponents to just 22.3 PPG and 297.0 total YPG.

FINAL TAKE: East Carolina had 21 first-time starters last season, the fifth-most in the nation. The fruits of that commitment to go young are coming into place now. The Pirates have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 conference games. Lastly, East Carolina is 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as a dog getting 10.5 to 21 points. Yes, this is a dangerous team. 25* CFB American Athletic Conference Game of the Year with the East Carolina Pirates (156) plus the points versus the Cincinnati Bearcats (155). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Buffalo Bills (109) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (110). THE SITUATION: Buffalo (6-4) has lost two of their last three games after their 41-15 upset loss at home to Indianapolis as a 7-point favorite on Sunday. New Orleans (5-5) lost their third straight game with their 40-29 loss at Philadelphia as a 3-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BILLS MINUS THE POINTS: Buffalo should respond with a strong effort tonight as they are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 games after a loss by 14 or more points. The formula for success for head coach Sean McDermott tonight will likely be to play conservative, get a lead, and then don’t risk losing it. After getting upset on the road to Jacksonville by a 9-6 score three weeks ago, the Bills finally made a schematic change by putting quarterback Josh Allen under center to operate a more conventional rushing attack. Offensive coordinator Brian Daboll has probably been asking Allen to do too much — especially out of the shotgun formation. Buffalo also incorporated running back Matt Brieda in more rushing plays against the Jets. The result was a 45-14 victory where they ran the ball 24 times for 139 yards. But the Bills got away from that last week as they ran the ball just 13 times in their loss to Colts while having their offense on the field for just 22:13 minutes. Running the football will help the Buffalo offensive line and keep the energy up for their defense. The Bills have been outstanding on defense for most of the season — they should bounce-back after giving up 370 yards last week. Buffalo has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game — and the Under is 5-2-1 in their last 8 games after surrendering at least 30 points in their last game. They are allowing just 17.6 PPG along with 283.7 total Yards-Per-Game — and they hold their home hosts to 16.0 PPG and 310.8 total YPG in their five road games. New Orleans only gained 323 yards last week in their loss at Philadelphia. The Saints’ offense is ravaged with injuries in their first year in the post-Drew Brees era. Running back Alvin Kamara will miss his third straight game with a knee. Mark Ingram is questionable with his knee injury — and he was simply a rotation running back with Houston before being re-acquired by New Orleans midseason. Quarterback Jameis Winston is out the season with his torn ACL and Taysom Hill is not 100% with a foot injury that limits his mobility. The offensive line is banged up — and wide receiver unit lacks a true number one with Michael Thomas not playing this year. Quarterback Trevor Siemian was effective early coming on in relief in the Saints’ upset win against Tampa Bay — but he is winless in his three starts while regressing in his quality of play as opposing defenses build their book up against him. He completed only 22 of 40 passes for 214 yards with two interceptions last week. That 5.4 yards-per-attempt passing average he had against the Eagles is sub-standard. He is ineffective if placed into obvious passing downs when playing from behind. New Orleans. The Bills are 3-2 on the road this season — and the Saints have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Buffalo has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games in non-conference play. They should overwhelm a struggling and undermanned Saints’ team that head coach Sean Payton has been using mirrors to get by with this season. 10* NFL Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the Buffalo Bills (109) minus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (110). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the New York Giants (477) plus the points versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (478). THE SITUATION: New York (3-6) has won two of their last three games after their 23-16 upset victory against Las Vegas as a 3-point underdog back on November 7th. Tampa Bay (6-3) has lost two in a row after their 29-19 upset loss at Washington as a 10-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GIANTS PLUS THE POINTS: New York has covered the point spread in three straight games — and they have then covered the point spread in 37 of their last 54 games on the road after covering the point spread in at least two straight games. The Giants are likely undervalued right now — they have three losses to Washington, Atlanta, and Kansas City decided by a combined seven points. Injuries have hit this team hard but they hope to get left tackle Andrew Thomas and running back Saquon Barkley back on the field tonight. New York’s defense has steadily improved this season. They have held their last three opponents to just 13.0 PPG and 314.7 total YPG. The Giants have been very consistent when playing on the road where they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 27 games. They have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 road games as an underdog. The Buccaneers have suffered two straight upset losses after losing in New Orleans as a 3.5-point road favorite on October 31st. Tom Brady misses his security blankets in wide receiver Antonio Brown and tight end Rob Gronkowski. Brown remains out tonight but Gronkowski could return to the field with his being listed as questionable — although how effective he will be with his sore back remains an issue. Tampa Bay gained only 273 yards against the Football Team. Maybe the Buccaneers can simply flip the switch and cover a double-digit spread tonight — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after suffering two straight upset losses. Tampa Bay has not covered the point spread in five of their last seven games — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to cover the spread in four or five of their last six games. Tampa Bay misses Vita Tea on their defensive line who has been out with a knee injury. He is doubtful to play tonight. The Buccaneers' defense has allowed 122 rushing YPG in their last four games after holding their first five opponents to just 46 rushing YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Tampa Bay has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored — and they are just 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 games in November. 10* NFL Monday Night Discounted Deal with the New York Giants (477) plus the points versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (478). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Chargers (476) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (475). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (5-4) has lost three of their last four games after their 27-20 upset loss to Minnesota as a 3-point favorite last week. Pittsburgh (5-3-1) had their four-game winning streak snapped with a 16-16 tie with Detroit as a 6-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHARGERS MINUS THE POINTS: I consider the Steelers a bit overrated — and they are ravaged with injuries for this one. Big Ben Roethlisberger will play after being removed from the COVID list — but he has not practiced in a couple of weeks. Granted, Roethlisberger is not a gym rat — but I still expect him to be rusty after being in quarantine. Left guard Kevin Dotson is out with a foot injury. The Pittsburgh defense is without their three best players in linebacker T.J. Watt, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and cornerback Joe Haden. Those losses on defense are devastating. As it is, Pittsburgh is being outscored and outgained this season. They are getting outgained by -46.7 net Yards-Per-Game on the road. The Steelers winning record is due to their 5-0-1 record in games decided by one-scoring possession. Mike Tomlin’s team could easily be 3-6 instead of 5-3-1. Their record is also skewed when considering that six of their nine games have been at home at Heinz Field. They are scoring just 18.3 PPG and averaging 301.3 total YPG in their three road games. Pittsburgh did game 387 yards last week against the Lions — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after gaining at least 350 yards in their last game. The Steelers have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after winning four or five of their last six games. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games after playing their last game Under the Total including failing to cover the point spread in four of their five games this season after an Under. Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 31 of their last 47 games after an upset loss at home as the favorite. The Chargers have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. Los Angeles gave up 278 passing yards to the Vikings last week — but they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 250 yards in their last game. The good news for the Chargers is that they expect defensive end Joey Bosa to be back on the field after being on the COVID list. On their home field, Los Angeles is scoring 27.2 PPG while averaging 380.6 total YPG.

FINAL TAKE: The Chargers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against fellow AFC opponents. Against a depleted Steelers’ defense, Los Angeles should reach their home scoring average in the high-20s — and that is a mark that will be hard for Pittsburgh to match. The Steelers have not scored more than 17 points in five of their games. 25* NFL Sunday Night Football Game of the Month with the Los Angeles Chargers (476) minus the points versus the Pittsburgh Steelers (475). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Baltimore Ravens (461) minus the point(s) versus the Chicago Bears (462). THE SITUATION: Baltimore (6-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 22-10 upset loss at Miami as an 8.5-point underdog on November 11th. Chicago (3-6) has lost four in a row after their 29-27 loss at Pittsburgh as a 7-point underdog on November 8th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAVENS MINUS THE POINT(S): This situation probably triggers a 25* play on Baltimore if Lamar Jackson is playing in this game. But Jackson has been declared out this morning with a non-COVID illness — so it will be Tyler Huntley under center. I still like the Ravens now as a small favorite in this game (albeit, as a 20* play). Baltimore likes the former Utah Utes’ quarterback because he is mobile and can operate the basic schemes designed for Jackson. In offensive coordinator Greg Roman, I trust, for this one. Look for Huntley to be very active in the run game this afternoon against a depleted Bears defense missing Khalil Mack (out the season) and Akeem Hicks. Baltimore has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after failing to score at least 15 points in their last game. The Ravens defense surrendered 290 passing yards to the Dolphins last week — but they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 250 passing yards in their last game. Additionally, Baltimore has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 road games with the Total set in the 42.5 to 49 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games when favored by 7 points or less. Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after a straight-up loss. The Bears have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a point spread win — and in their last 16 home games after a game on the road where both teams scored at least 24 points, Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of these games. I expect rookie QB Justin Fields to struggle in this one. He has thrown seven interceptions this season while being sacked 27 times. He has struggled against man-to-man coverage and pressure — and the Ravens will offer heavy doses of both this afternoon. Baltimore is third in the NFL by playing man-defense 40% of the time. They blitz 30.4% of the time on passing downs, the fifth-highest mark in the NFL — and their 31.8% pressure rate is ninth-best in the league. The Bears are coming off their bye week — but they are winless in seven games played off the bye under head coach Matt Nagy and they are just 5-16-1 ATS in their last 22 games coming off a bye. They are banged up on defense, as mentioned above, and they have surrendered 586 rushing yards in their last four games. They return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 games against teams with a winning record. While it is a disappointment that Jackson is not playing, that is why the line dropped to the Ravens laying just a point or so. John Harbaugh will find a way for his team to win this game. 20* NFL Sunday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Baltimore Ravens (461) minus the point(s) versus the Chicago Bears (462). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Utah Utes (372) minus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (371). THE SITUATION: Utah (7-3) has won three games in a row with their 38-29 win at Arizona last week as a 24-point favorite. Oregon (9-1) has won five games in a row with their 38-24 victory against Washington State as a 13.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE UTES MINUS THE POINTS: Utah should continue to build off its momentum. They have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after a point spread win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win on the road against a Pac-12 rival. The Utes have also covered the point spread in 6 straight games at home after winning two in a row against Pac-12 foes. Utah is a better team now that they have settled their quarterback situation. Former Baylor quarterback Charlie Brewer was under center early in the season — but the offense has improved after a disgruntled Brewer left the program because he was being outplayed by Cameron Rising. The former Texas recruit completed 19 of 30 passes last week for 294 yards with two touchdown passes and no interceptions. The Utes have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Rising has 14 touchdown passes and just two interceptions — and he has made 13 Big-Time Throws with only three turnover-worthy plays. Utah is 3-3 on the road this year after starting the season 1-2 — but they are an unbeaten 4-0 at home with an average winning margin of +17.0 PPG. They generate 430.8 total YPG at home while allowing just 340.0 total YPG. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games when favored. The Utes defense has held their last three opponents to just 20.0 PPG and 323.0 YPG. Utah has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games in conference play. Oregon has covered the point spread in their last two games after their narrow cover against the Cougars last week. But the Ducks have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after covering the point spread in two straight games. And while their win against Washington State finished Over the 58 point Total, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. The Ducks defense has some issues despite having a likely top-ten pick in the next NFL draft in defensive lineman Kayvan Thibodeaux. Oregon is 95th in the nation in defensive touchdown rate in the Red Zone. They are also 73rd in Havoc Rate — and Utah is 18th in Havoc Rate Allowed on offense. The Ducks goes back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Utah is in the driver’s seat to win the Pac-12 South with a one-game lead against Arizona State while controlling the tie-breaker with their victory against the Sun Devils. But Kyle Whittingham does not have his team take their foot off the gas pedal this time of the season. The Utes have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after the first month of the season — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in November. And Whittingham will motivate his team to avenge the 37-15 loss to the Ducks in their last meeting on December 6th in 2019 by a 37-15 score. 10* CFB Oregon-Utah ABC-TV Special with the Utah Utes (372) minus the points versus the Oregon Ducks (371). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Navy Midshipmen (384) plus the points versus the East Carolina Pirates (383). THE SITUATION: Navy (2-7) has lost four of their last five games after their 34-6 loss at Notre Dame as a 21-point underdog two weeks ago. East Carolina (6-4) has won three in a row after their 30-29 upset win in overtime against Memphis as a 4-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MIDSHIPMEN PLUS THE POINTS: Despite the disappointing record, Navy still has their showdown with Army to think about — so this is an important game to establish some momentum for that final rivalry game in three weeks. The Midshipmen have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss by 20 or more points. Navy has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a bye week. The Midshipmen only gained 184 yards against the Irish in that game — but they have then covered the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after not gaining at least 275 yards in their last game. Despite their seven losses, Navy has been competitive — they lost by one score to the powers in the American Athletic Conference in Cincinnati, Houston, and SMU. They are 19th in the nation in Red Zone defense by keeping their opponents scoreless in 25% of their trips. It is Senior Day in Annapolis this afternoon — and the Midshipmen have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as an underdog. East Carolina quarterback Holton Ahlers completed 29 of 46 passes for 317 yards in leading the Pirates to the upset win against the Tigers — but they are just 13-36-2 ATS in their last 51 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. The boxscore indicates that East Carolina outgained Memphis by a 502 to 341 yards margin — but they only averaged 4.9 Yards-Per-Play while allowing the Tigers to average 6.4 YPP. The Pirates are not likely to win the time of possession against a Navy team who average 35:34 minutes per game behind their triple-option rushing attack. After the emotional victory last week — and Cincinnati on deck — East Carolina may not have had their full attention during the week in preparing for the Midshipmen’s unique offense. They allow 4.4 rushing Yards-Per-Carry — and they have surrendered 226 rushing yards to Appalachian State, 204 rushing yards to Marshall, and 199 rushing yards to South Florida. The Pirates have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 road games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games when favored overall.

FINAL TAKE: East Carolina has not beaten Navy since 2011. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games against the Midshipmen after losing at home to them last season by a 27-23 score as a 3-point underdog. Don’t be surprised if Navy wins this game outright — but take the points for some insurance. 10* CFB Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the Navy Midshipmen (384) plus the points versus the East Carolina Pirates (383). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Atlanta Falcons (312) plus the points versus the New England Patriots (311). THE SITUATION: Atlanta (4-5) looks to rebound from their 43-3 loss at Dallas an 8-point underdog on Sunday. New England (6-4) has won four in a row with their 45-7 win against Cleveland as a 2.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FALCONS PLUS THE POINTS: The Falcons have lost two of their last three games after catching an angry Cowboys team that was coming off their worst game of the season in an upset loss at home to Denver. Despite Atlanta being hit hard by injuries, rookie head coach Arthur Smith has done a good job with this team. After losing their first two games of the season by 49 combined points, the Falcons won four of their next six games with each of those contests decided by one-scoring possession. If there was a silver lining from Sunday’s blowout loss, it was that Matt Ryan left the game in the third quarter. The veteran quarterback will be rested and ready for this game on a short week. Atlanta went into halftime trailing by a 36-3 score — but they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 25 games after trailing by at least three touchdowns at halftime in their last game. The Falcons have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread loss. A blocked punt returned for a touchdown and a -2 net turnover margin did not help matters — but Atlanta has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after suffering a -2 or worse turnover margin in their last game. The Falcons only gained 214 total yards in the loss — but they are 20-7-1 ATS in their last 28 games after not gaining more than 250 yards in their last game and they have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games after not scoring more than 14 points in their last contest. And while the Cowboys gained 431 yards against them last week, Atlanta has then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after giving up at least 350 yards in their last game. New England is peaking in terms of market value after their 38-point win against the Browns — but they are just 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 games after a straight-up win. The Patriots have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a win at home — and they are just 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games after a point spread win. Additionally, New England is 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. The Patriots have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after winning four or five of their last six games. Now they go back on the road where they are 4-0 — but they are gaining just 309.3 total YPG in those contests. Rookie quarterback Mac Jones has played much better than expected under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels — but New England has supported him with a quality rushing attack. The Patriots rushed for 184 yards last week after gaining 151 yards on the ground in their previous game at Carolina. The Patriots are just 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games after rushing for at least 150 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 games after rushing for at least 150 yards in two straight games.

FINAL TAKE: After playing their last two games on the road, Atlanta returns home which gives them a situational edge in this matchup. The concept of selling high and buying low when handicapping football gets thrown around too loosely in my opinion — but this is a genuine opportunity to take advantage of that axiom fading a Patriots team that opened around a 4-point favorite but has been bet up to a touchdown or so favorite on the road on a short week. The market is overreacting to the blowout results both teams incurred last week. 25* NFL Thursday Night Football Game of the Month on the Atlanta Falcons (312) plus the points versus the New England Patriots (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Eastern Michigan Eagles (302) plus the points versus the Western Michigan Broncos (301). THE SITUATION: Eastern Michigan (6-4) had their two-game winning streak snapped with a 34-26 upset loss to Ohio as a 6-point favorite last Tuesday. Western Michigan (6-4) ended their two-game losing streak with a 45-40 win against Akron as a 26-point favorite last Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE EAGLES PLUS THE POINTS: Eastern Michigan still has plenty to play for this season even if their 3-3 conference record likely has them out of contention to play in the Mid-American Conference Championship Game. Reaching eight wins would be a milestone for this program as would winning the Michigan MAC Title involving the four directional teams from the state in the conference. Reaching a fourth bowl in the last six seasons under head coach Chris Creighton would cement his legacy. The Eagles have bounced back to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after an upset loss. Eastern Michigan has also covered the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss at home to a conference rival. Ben Bryant complete 41 of 57 passes for 354 yards in the losing effort to the Bobcats. The graduate transfer quarterback from Cincinnati is completing 69.7% of his passes and has thrown for at least 300 yards in four straight games. He leads an offense ranked 27th in the nation by scoring 34.0 PPG. The Eagles have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 29 games after passing for at least 280 yards. They return home where they are outscoring their guests by +8.8 PPG. Eastern Michigan rarely gets soundly defeated — they have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games against teams with a winning record. They have covered the point spread in 27 of their last 39 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when getting 3.5 to 10 points. Western Michigan has been inconsistent under head coach Tim Lester. They are just 6-15-1 ATS in their last 22 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a win against a conference rival. The defensive play of the Broncos has been holding them back. They are tied for 91st in the nation by allowing 30.0 PPG — and they surrender 34.8 PPG and 413.3. total YPG in their four games on the road. Western Michigan has allowed at least 31 points in five straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after giving up at least 31 points in their last two contests. The offense has taken a step back this year as well. Quarterback Kaleb Eleby led the team to score 41.7 PPG last season — but the loss of two players to the NFL from that group may be playing a role in their averaging 11.0 fewer PPG this season. On the road, the Broncos are scoring just 24.3 PPG. Western Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after scoring at least 37 points in their last contest. They have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 road games when favored by 3.5 to 7 points.

FINAL TAKE: Western Michigan was a favorite to win the MAC West Title — so their 3-3 record in the MAC has been another disappointment under Lester. It could be worse — the Broncos have won all three of their games decided by one scoring possession. Eastern Michigan has played an incredible 45 of their last 58 games within one scoring possession. They are 2-3 in their five one-score games this year continuing a string of tough luck where they have won only four of their last fourteen games decided by eight points or less. Eastern Michigan has upset Miami (OH) and Toledo this year making it 15 upset wins under Creighton in the last six seasons. Getting 5.5 to 6 or so points offers a nice cushion in a game where the Eagles should be in a position to pull the upset. 25* CFB Tuesday ESPN2 Game of the Year with the Eastern Michigan Eagles (302) plus the points versus the Western Michigan Broncos (301). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the San Francisco 49ers (266) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (265). THE SITUATION: San Francisco (3-5) has lost five of their last six games after their 31-17 upset loss at home to Arizona as a 5.5-point favorite last week. Los Angeles (7-2) had their four-game winning streak snapped last week with their 28-16 upset loss to Tennessee as a 7-point favorite last Sunday night.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 49ERS PLUS THE POINTS: Matthew Stafford had his worst game in a Los Angeles uniform by completing 31 of 48 passes for 294 yards but with two interceptions with one returned for a touchdown. The Rams’ offensive line struggled to slow down the Tennessee four-man rush and Stafford’s play reminded Detroit Lions fans of the quarterback they would often witness. Stafford will be without Robert Woods for the rest of the season after suffering a torn ACL on Friday. That injury came a day after the team signed Odell Beckham. I am skeptical but keeping an open mind on how Beckham will work with the Rams. There may be early growing pains in getting Stafford and Beckham on the same page. Stafford struggled at times keeping the Lions' offense in synch under the pressure of feeding Calvin Johnson the football. Los Angeles only gained 347 total yards last week with head coach and play-caller Sean McVay abandoning the run game and the play-action game that brought him so much initial success with this offense. Scoring 38 points against the New York Giants and Houston Texans is great — but the Rams have not scored more than 28 points in their other four games since peaking in a 34-24 win against Tampa Bay the last Sunday night in September. Those 28 points were scored at home against Detroit, by the way. Los Angeles did hold the Titans to just 194 yards last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 road games after not allowing more than 200 yards in their last game. The Rams have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after winning five or six of their last seven games. Additionally, Los Angeles has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record. The Rams are also 3-7-1 ATS in their last 11 games in November under McVay. San Francisco has covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after getting upset by an NFC West rival in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after an upset loss to a divisional rival as a home favorite. The 49ers only gained 337 yards against the Cardinals but they only had the ball on offense for 23:13 minutes. They averaged a healthy 6.6 Yards-Per-Play last week after averaging 8.6 YPP the previous week in a 33-22 win at Chicago. The 49ers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after averaging at least 6.0 YPP in two straight games. San Francisco has lost eleven of their last twelve games at home — but they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as an underdog. They may be winless at home this season but they are outgaining their opponents by +13.2 net YPG. The Niners are outgaining their opponents by +27.5 net YPG.

FINAL TAKE: San Francisco has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 appearances on Monday Night Football — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 meetings with the Rams while sweeping them in both divisional games the last two seasons. 10* NFL Monday Night Discounted Deal with the San Francisco 49ers (266) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Rams (265). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Las Vegas Raiders (264) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (263). THE SITUATION: Las Vegas (5-3) had their two-game losing streak snapped with a 23-16 loss at New York against the Giants as a 3-point favorite on Sunday. Kansas City (5-4) has won two in a row after their 13-7 win against Green Bay as a 7.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAIDERS PLUS THE POINTS: Las Vegas dominated the statistics against the Giants last week. They won the first down battle by a 24-16 margin — and they outgained them by a 403 to 245 margin in yards. A -2 net turnover margin did the Raiders in — including a 41-yard interception returned for a touchdown by the Giants. Las Vegas returns home where they are 3-1 this season while outgaining their opponents to +85.8 net Yards-Per-Game. The Raiders have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home as an underdog. Las Vegas has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. Kansas City beat a Packers team playing without Aaron Rodgers despite only gaining 237 yards and getting outgained by -64 net yards. They have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Chiefs have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after not scoring more than 14 points in their last game — and they are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games after not giving up more than 14 points in their last contest. Kansas City has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games in November. Furthermore, the Chiefs have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas City has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against AFC West rivals — and the Raiders have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against division foes. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Las Vegas Raiders (264) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (263). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Minnesota Vikings (255) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Chargers (256). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (3-5) looks to rebound from a 34-31 loss in overtime as a 7.5-point underdog against Baltimore last Sunday. Los Angeles (5-3) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 27-24 victory at Philadelphia as a 1-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE VIKINGS PLUS THE POINTS: All of Minnesota’s losses this season have been by a touchdown or less this season. They should rebound with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 41 of their last 59 games after a straight-up loss. The Vikings have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after losing two in a row. Minnesota was outgained by -182 yards against the Ravens after being outgained by -141 yards to Dallas in their previous game — but they have then covered the point spread in 7 straight games after getting outgained by at least 100 points in two straight games. The Vikings are still outgaining their opponents overall this season. They have forced multiple turnovers in four straight games — and they lead the NFL by averaging 3.4 sacks per game. Minnesota has also scored at least 30 points in four of their games. Quarterback Kirk Cousins is completing 68.8% of his passes on the road with a 111.3 Passer Rating — the fourth-best QB mark on the road this season. He has ten passing touchdowns on the road and no interceptions. The Vikings have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record a home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games as an underdog. Los Angeles generated 445 yards last week against the Eagles en route to outgaining them by +114 net yards. But the Chargers have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after gaining at least 400 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +100 yards. Los Angeles returns home where they are just 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 home games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The Chargers have the worst run defense in the NFL as they are allowing 162 rushing YPG. Minnesota should have success in this department as they average 143 rushing YPG on the road — and they have generated 550 rushing yards in their last four games. Vikings running back Delvin Cook may come out with a big game in response to the off-the-field problems he had this week. Los Angeles is also banged up in their secondary with at least two cornerbacks out and more defensive backs questionable with injuries.

FINAL TAKE: The Chargers have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games in November — and Minnesota has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games as an underdog. Don’t be surprised if the Vikings win this game — but take the points for some insurance. 10* NFL Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the Minnesota Vikings (255) plus the points versus the Los Angeles Chargers (256). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the UCLA Bruins (162) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (161). THE SITUATION: UCLA (5-4) has lost two games in a row after their 44-24 loss at Utah as a 6.5-point underdog two weeks ago. Colorado (3-6) snapped their two-game losing streak with their 37-34 upset victory against Oregon State in double-overtime as an 11.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BRUINS MINUS THE POINTS: Head coach Chip Kelly’s seat is getting warmer in Los Angeles after a two-game slide — although both losses were without quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. The bye week helped DTR and some other injured players get healthy again for the stretch run of the season that will determine whether or not this has been a successful season. With USC on deck, UCLA will want to establish some momentum. They narrowly lost at home to Oregon by a 34-31 score in their previous game before being flat against the Utes. The Bruins have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after losing two of their last three games. And while they spotted Utah 28 points in the first half in their last game, they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after scoring at least 24 points in the first half of their last game. Additionally, UCLA has covered the point spread in 27 of their last 39 games after allowing at least 31 points in two straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after losing two in a row to a Pac-12 foe while allowing at least 31 points in both contests . Hosting the Buffaloes may be just what the doctor ordered as they have allowed at least 200 rushing yards five times in this season including in each of their last three games. In their last seven contests, Colorado is giving up 211 rushing YPG with their opponent scoring at least three rushing touchdowns in four of those games. UCLA running backs Zach Charbonnet and Brittain Brown along with Thompson-Robinson combine to average 5.2 Yards-Per-Carry with 20 rushing touchdowns. They host the Buffaloes at the Rose Bowl where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 home games when laying 14.5 to 21 points. Colorado is getting better play from freshman quarterback Brendon Lewis who has led them to score 33 PPG in their last two games after they averaged just 12 PPG in their first six games against FBS opponents. But the Buffaloes winless on the road in four games with an average losing margin of -17.8 PPG. They only score 13.0 PPG and average 238.8 total YPG on the road — and they allow their home hosts to average 433.3 total YPG. This will be Colorado’s third game in their last four on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games as an underdog. The Buffaloes surrendered 475 yards to the Beavers in their upset win — and they have failed to cover the pint spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 450 yards in their last game. And while they have not committed a turnover in two straight games, they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 straight games after not committing a turnover.

FINAL TAKE: Colorado has lost by at least 22 points in all four of their setbacks in the Pac-12 this season. UCLA has covered the point spread in 5 straight games against teams with a losing record. 10* CFB Blowout Bookie Buster with the UCLA Bruins (162) minus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (161). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the LSU Tigers (206) minus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (205). THE SITUATION: Arkansas (6-3) has won two straight games after their 31-28 win against Mississippi State as a 4-point favorite last Saturday. LSU (4-5) looks to rebound from their 20-14 loss at Alabama as a 29.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: The Razorbacks have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread victory. And while Arkansas has not covered the point spread in their last three games, they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not covering the point spread in their last two games. Now after playing their last three games at home, the Razorbacks go back on the road where they are just 1-2 this season in their three games away from home. They score only 23.7 PPG in these three away games — and their defense allows 33.0 PPG and 409.3 total YPG. Playing away from Fayetteville has been a problem for this program — they have won just once in their last fifteen road games since 2018. This team has won only one road game in their seven played under head coach Sam Pittman. Arkansas has lost both of their two true road games when playing in a hostile environment rather than a neutral field. Now they are favored despite having failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games when favored. LSU may have lost last week — but they feel good about themselves for holding the potent Crimson Tide offense to just 308 total yards. The Tigers stuffed Alabama in 14 of their 22 rushing attempts while holding them to only 3.4 Yards-Per-Attempt in the passing game. LSU dialed up their pressure by generating four sacks and eight tackles for loss against the Tide — and Razorbacks’ QB K.J. Jefferson struggles against the blitz. While the Tigers are playing for a lame-duck head coach in Ed Orgeron who will not be retained at the end of the season, I expect the players to rally around him and each other in this night game in Death Valley. This group does not want the embarrassment of not becoming bowl eligible. As it is, LSU has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss to a conference rival. They have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after losing two of their last three games. And while the offense has only scored 31 points in their last two games, they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after failing to score more than 17 points in two straight games. Orgeron is looking for a spark on offense which is why freshman quarterback Garrett Nussmeier will get plenty of snaps tonight — and he has a cannon for an arm.

FINAL TAKE: LSU has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games as a dog. Arkansas is just 4-11-2 ATS in their last 17 games when favored. Don’t be surprised if the Tigers pull the upset — but take the points for some insurance. 20* CFB Don’t Need the Points (but we will take the points) Underdog Special with the LSU Tigers (206) minus the points versus the Arkansas Razorbacks (205). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Baylor Bears (150) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (149). THE SITUATION: Baylor (7-2) looks to rebound from a 30-28 upset loss at TCU as a 7.5-point favorite on Saturday. Oklahoma (9-0) remained unbeaten with their 52-21 victory against Texas Tech as a 19.5-point favorite as a 19.5-point favorite on October 30th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS PLUS THE POINTS: The Sooners are right in the heart of the College Football Playoff conversation with their unbeaten record — but this will be the most difficult game they have played so far this year when considering that their eight FBS opponents have combined for a 28-45 record (not including their victory against Western Carolina from the FCS). Their best win up to this point is probably their six-point win against a 6-3 Kansas State team. Five of their victories have been by a touchdown or less. Even with this soft schedule, the play of the Oklahoma defense once again appears to be a liability. They allow 24.2 Points-Per-Game and 383.9 total Yards-Per-Game — ranking 60th and 63rd in the nation. Injuries have not helped matters — but this remains a defense that is allowing 8.1 Yards-Per-Attempt from opposing quarterbacks while ranking 113th in the nation by giving up 272.9 passing YPG. Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch lost two cornerbacks to the NFL from last year — and sophomore cornerback Woodi Washington has been out with an injury — but these are ominous numbers heading into the most difficult part of their schedule. They do come off a bye week — but they are just 6-6 ATS in the 12 games under Lincoln Riley with an extra week to prepare. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by 20 or more points. And while freshman quarterback Caleb Williams passed for over 400 yards against the Red Raiders to lead an offense that generated 541 yards, the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after passing for at least 375 yards — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Oklahoma has scored at least 37 points in seven straight games after their narrow 16-13 escape at home against West Virginia in early September — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 31 points in five straight games. Baylor may have been caught looking ahead to this showdown last week in their upset loss to a Horned Frogs team motivated to play for head coach Gary Patterson who resigned after their previous game. The Bears can remove the bad taste in their mouth from that disappointing performance by stunning the undefeated Sooners — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after an upset loss to a Big 12 rival where they were laying at least six points. Baylor has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a point spread win. The Bears need to tighten up on defense after allowing TCU gain 570 yards. Baylor has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after allowing at least 450 yards. Head coach Dave Aranda has talent on defense with ten starters back from the COVID-marred rookie campaign with the team last year. The Bears had not allowed 30 points before last week with only Iowa State scoring more than 24 points against them. Baylor has a potent rushing attack that averages 5.9 Yards-Per-Carry and ranks seventh in the nation by generating 230.9 rushing YPG. By not asking junior quarterback Gerry Bohanon to do too much, the Bears are averaging a healthy 8.8 Yards-Per-Attempt. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 home games as an underdog. Furthermore, Baylor has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Aranda schemed a defense last year that limited the Sooners to just 269 total yards and 10 points in the first half in a 27-14 Oklahoma victory in Norman. Now the Bears host Oklahoma in Norman where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against the Sooners. The inexperience of Williams at quarterback may lead to some nervy moments for the National Championship aspirations of Oklahoma. 25* CFB Big 12 Underdog of the Year with the Baylor Bears (150) plus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (149). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Miami Dolphins (114) plus the points versus the Baltimore Ravens (113). THE SITUATION: Miami (2-7) snapped their seven-game losing streak with their 17-9 win against Houston as a 4-point favorite on Sunday. Baltimore (6-2) has won six of their last seven games with their 34-31 win in overtime against Minnesota as a 7.5-point favorite last week.

REASONS TO TAKE THE DOLPHINS PLUS THE POINTS: Miami should build off their recent momentum as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a win at home — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after a point spread win. They stay at home where they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 home games in the second half of the season. The Dolphins have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games when getting 7.5 to 14 points as an underdog. The biggest difference between Brian Flores' team this season and last year has been the turnover game. Miami led the NFL by forcing 29 turnovers last season. The Dolphins have forced only 13 turnovers in their nine games this year — but they have also committed 18 turnovers to saddle them with a -5 net turnover margin. Now they host a Ravens team that has only forced seven turnovers this season — and they have not had more than one takeaway in six straight games. If Miami can just stay even in the turnover battle, they should be competitive tonight. Baltimore has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game. Now after playing their last four games at home, the Ravens return to the road where they have scored 23 or fewer points in two of their three games. Baltimore has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games when laying 7.5 to 10 points.

FINAL TAKE: Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is a game-time decision with his finger injury that kept him out last week. Jacoby Brissett is one of the better backups in the league — so if he plays, the Dolphins should still be competitive after he led them to victory against the Texans last week. Brissett also kept Miami alive in a tight game in Las Vegas earlier in the season before the Raiders won in overtime by a 30-27 score. The Ravens have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games in November — and the Dolphins have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games in November. 10* NFL Baltimore-Miami Fox-TV Special with the Miami Dolphins (114) plus the points versus the Baltimore Ravens (113). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (116) minus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (115). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (7-2) has won five of their last six games with their 54-29 win at Duke as a 21-point road favorite on Saturday. North Carolina (5-4) has won two of their last three games with their 58-55 win against Wake Forest as a 2.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS MINUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by at least 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 20 of their last 27 home games after a double-digit win against an ACC rival. Led by quarterback Kenny Pickett, the Panthers generated 638 yards of offense against the Blue Devils — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. Pitt returns home where they are scoring 46.0 Points-Per-Game and averaging 569.2 total Yards-Per-Game. They are outscoring their guests by +23.4 PPG due to a defense that is only allowing 22.6 PPG. Despite the Panthers being coached by a defensive guru in Pat Narduzzi, they are thriving due to the play of their offense and the emergence of Pickett at quarterback. Pitt has averaged 562.3 total YPG in three straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after averaging at least 525 YPG in their last three contests. We had North Carolina last Saturday in their victory against the Demon Deacons — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 14 games after a straight-up win against an ACC foe and in 7 of their last 9 games after a point spread victory. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 40 points in their last game. Now they go back on the road where they are winless in three games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games. The weak link for North Carolina is their defense that allows 35.3 PPG and 404.3 total YPG on the road. The Tar Heels do not disrupt the quarterback — they rank 109th in the Pass Rush Pressure Rate. They also don’t protect their quarterback enough with their Havoc Rate Allowed that ranks 106th — and Narduzzi’s defense is 17th in the nation in Havoc Rate.

FINAL TAKE: Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when favored by 3.5 to 10 points. 10* CFB North Carolina-Pittsburgh ESPN Special with the Pittsburgh Panthers (116) minus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (115). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Steelers (476) minus the points versus the Chicago Bears (475). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (4-3) has won three games in a row after their 15-10 upset victory at Cleveland as a 5.5-point underdog last Sunday. Chicago (3-5) has lost three in a row with their 33-22 loss to San Francisco as a 4.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE STEELERS MINUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh is playing better football due to improved play from their offensive line. After not rushing for more than 75 yards in their first four games, the Steelers have rushed for at least 115 yards in their three-game winning streak while averaging 127 rushing Yards-Per-Game. Rookie running back Najee Harris has been the main beneficiary as he has gained 294 rushing yards in these last three games. They have averaged 368.7 total YPG during their winning streak — a +38.4 net YPG bump over their season average. The improved rushing attack has taken some of the pressure off Ben Roethlisberger. While the veteran quarterback is in decline, he still can be effective in leading the passing game. He has not thrown an interception in 99 straight passes. Pittsburgh should build off their momentum tonight. They have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a win by six points or less. The Steelers have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after winning two games in a row. Head coach Mike Tomlin’s team continues to be built around their defense. They have held their last three opponents to 16.3 PPG and 329.7 total YPG. Pittsburgh’s defense ranks 10th in the NFL in the DVOA metric by the Football Outsiders. They rank 6th in DVOA run defense which will offer a challenge to the Bears’ offense. Chicago is 30th in offensive DVOA and last rushing DVOA. Rookie Justin Fields may have played his best game as a pro last week against the 49ers. He completed 19 of 27 passes but for just 175 yards. Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor finally got Fields using his legs in some designed run plays as he gained 103 yards on ten carries. Head coach Matt Nagy was not on the sidelines last week due to his testing positive for COVID. Nagy is back with the team tonight — so he may impose the offensive game plan for Patrick Mahomes he borrowed from Andy Reid when getting the Bears coaching gig. After failing with Mitchell Trubisky, Nagy has not gotten much from Fields. The former Ohio State star is completing only 59.5% of his passes and averaging 123.9 passing YPG. He has only thrown three touchdown passes but he has seven interceptions. Chicago has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight road games after a loss at home. The Bears have also failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after a double-digit loss at home. Chicago is averaging only 15.4 PPG and 264.0 total YPG this season — and those numbers drop to 10.8 PPG and 233.0 total YPG in their four games on the road. The Bears have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The play of the Chicago defense is a concern tonight as well with linebacker Khalil Mack out with a foot injury and safety Eddie Jackson doubtful with a hamstring. The loss of Mack particularly stings since he is vital to the Bears’ run defense. Even with Mack, the Bears rank 18th in DVOA run defense. Chicago allowed 467 yards last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. The Bears have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games under Tomlin. 10* NFL Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers (476) minus the points versus the Chicago Bears (475). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Tennessee Titans (473) and the Los Angeles Rams (474). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (7-1) has won four straight games after their 38-22 win at Houston as a 17-point favorite last week.
Tennessee (6-2) has won four straight games after their 34-31 upset win in overtime at Indianapolis as a 3-point underdog last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAMS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles did not cover the 17-point spread despite the victory by two touchdowns last week — but they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a point spread loss. And while the Rams have not covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after only covering the point spread once in their last three games. The Rams have the best offense in the NFL according to the DVOA metric by Football Outsiders — and they are averaging 6.5 Yards-Per-Play. They are scoring 30.6 PPG — and they have scored at least 26 points in seven of their eight games. Now they will be playing a Titans defense that has allowed at least 27 points five times. Los Angeles leads the NFL in sacks — and they added Von Miller this week in a swap with Denver at the trade deadline. Will Tennessee be able to score into the 20s without Derrick Henry who is out with a foot injury? Ryan Tannehill’s Passer Rating drops by 20 points in his Titans’ career in games when he did not have Henry available in the backfield. After pulling off three straight upsets against Buffalo and Kansas City before the Colts last week, the bubble may be about ready to burst for this team. They stay on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 16 road games with the Total set at 49.5 or higher. The Titans have not allowed more than 83 rushing yards in three straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not allowing more than 100 rushing yards in two straight games. These nice run defense numbers may say more about the lack of a rushing attack from Buffalo and Kansas City than it does about the effectiveness of the Tennessee run defense. That unit ranks 28th in DVOA in run defense.

FINAL TAKE: Los Angeles has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 14 games when favored by 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Over the Total in the game between the Tennessee Titans (473) and the Los Angeles Rams (474). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Purdue Boilermakers (394) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (393). THE SITUATION: Purdue (5-3) enters this game coming off three 28-23 upset victory at Nebraska as a 7.5-point underdog last Saturday. Michigan State (8-0) comes off a 37-33 upset win at home against Michigan as a 4-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BOILERMAKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Purdue committed five turnovers two weeks ago in a loss to Wisconsin — but they turned the turnover tables on the Cornhuskers last week by generating a +4 net turnover margin. The Boilermakers handed Iowa their first loss of the season by a 24-7 score in Iowa City three weeks ago. Purdue returns home where they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games as an underdog. The Boilermakers are stout on defense. They hold their opponents to just 17.1 Points-Per-Game and 313.8 total Yards-Per-Game — ranking tied for 10th and 17th in the nation respectively. They also rank 16th in the nation by averaging 307.0 passing  YPG. This combination of defense and a potent passing attack makes them a dangerous underdog. Purdue has covered the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. They may be catching Michigan State on a hangover after their emotional comeback victory against their hated rival Michigan last week. The Spartans were trailing by two touchdowns in the second half before outscoring the Wolverines by a 23-3 margin to pull out the victory. Michigan State has covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in four straight games. The Spartans defeated Michigan despite getting outgained by -157 net yards. Michigan State surrendered 552 yards in that game. The Achilles’ heel of this team is the play of their defense. Opponents average 424.6 total YPG against them — ranking 101st in the nation. Sparty is particularly vulnerable against the pass as they rank 127th in the nation by allowing 300.5 passing YPG.

FINAL TAKE: Michigan State ranks third in the first College Football Playoff poll which may add some pressure on them for this game as they go from feisty overachievers under second-year head coach Mel Tucker to controlling their destiny to reach the playoffs. The Spartans have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games in November — and they are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing at Purdue. 10* CFB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Purdue Boilermakers (394) plus the points versus the Michigan State Spartans (393). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the North Carolina Tar Heels (340) minus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (339). THE SITUATION: North Carolina (4-4) has lost two of their last three games after their 44-34 loss at Notre Dame as a 3.5-point underdog last Saturday. Wake Forest (8-0) continued their unbeaten season with their 45-7 victory at home against Duke as a 16-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TAR HEELS MINUS THE POINTS: The Demon Deacons raced out to a 28-0 halftime lead last week against the Blue Devils — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after taking at least a 24 point lead at halftime of their last game. Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a point spread cover as a double-digit favorite. Additionally, the Demon Deacons have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games after a win by at least four touchdowns — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a win at home by 28 or more points. Quarterback Sam Hartman had another big game as he completed 24 of 37 passes for 402 yards with three touchdown passes while leading an offense that generated 677 total yards. But Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 21 games after gaining at least 525 yards in their last game. Turnover luck has helped the Demon Deacons cause as they have not committed more than one turnover in five straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after not committing more than one turnover in five straight games. Wake Forest has benefited from a soft schedule up to this point. Only Virginia and Army are FBS opponents that they have beaten that currently have winning records. While the Demon Deacons score plenty of points, that has overshadowed their suspect play on defense. They rank 99th in the FBS by allowing 421.5 total YPG. They have allowed their last three opponents to score 33.3 PPG and 474.4 total YPG. In their three road games, they have allowed their home hosts to score 36.7 PPG and average 538.3 total YPG. Wake Forest has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games played on grass (with their home games at Truist Field being played on field turf). North Carolina may possess the most potent offense that they placed all season. The Tar Heels are 12th in the nation by averaging 482.8 total YPG. Sam Howell completed 24 of 31 passes for 341 yards and added another 101 yards on the ground in their loss in South Bend. North Carolina has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss on the road. The Tar Heels did outgain the Fighting Irish last week by 39 yards by generating 564 yards of offense. They should be able to move the ball at will against the Demon Deacons. This team began the season with National Championship aspirations but an opening loss to Virginia Tech changed their realistic expectations. Ruining Wake Forest’s perfect season would give this group something to hang their hats on. North Carolina has not covered the point spread in four of their last five games — but they have then covered the point spread in 33 of their last 50 games after not covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. The Tar Heels return home where they are 4-1 this season with an average winning margin of +17.2 PPG. They average 45.2 PPG and 512.5 total YPG at home — and they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 34 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Wake Forest could not stop Howell and the Tar Heels’ offense last season — they lost in Chapel Hill by a 59-53 score. The Demon Deacons have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at North Carolina. 25* CFB ACC Game of the Year with the North Carolina Tar Heels (340) minus the points versus the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (339). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Indianapolis Colts (312) minus the points versus the New York Jets (311). THE SITUATION: Indianapolis (3-5) had their two-game winning streak snapped with their 34-31 upset loss in overtime to Tennessee on Sunday. New York (2-5) comes off a 31-24 upset win against Cincinnati as an 11.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE COLTS MINUS THE POINTS: Perhaps the best thing for this Indianapolis team is to get back on the field as soon as possible after the sting of losing their second game this season to their AFC South divisional rival in the Titans. Head coach Frank Reich should have his team ready to go in a must-win game for them to keep their playoff hopes alive. Indianapolis has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss at home. They are also 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games after a point spread loss. The Colts got lulled away from their rushing attack in that game as they ran the ball only 20 times for 83 yards. Expect more touches for Jonathan Taylor tonight — and Indy has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after failing to rush for at least 90 yards in their last game. The Colts should have a big edge in the turnover battle which should help them cover a double-digit spread. Indianapolis ranks second in the NFL with a +8 net turnover margin — and the Jets are 30th in the league with a -10 net turnover margin. Enter Mike White who will be making his second career start on a short week. He surprised in his first career start on Sunday by completing 37 of 45 passes for 405 yards with three touchdown passes — but he did throw two interceptions. The former Western Kentucky quarterback lived off short passes against the Bengals -- running back Michael Carter had 14 targets with nine receptions and running back Ty Johnson had another five catches from six targets out of the backfield. Jamison Crowder also had eight catches for 84 yards coming mostly from short routes. With White under center again this week since Zach Wilson is still injured, the Colts’ defense will adjust to this short game and dare White to throw the ball vertically down the field — and the Jets will once again be without their best deep threat in Corey Davis. Indianapolis has the fifth-best defense in the NFL according to the DVOA metrics at Football Outsiders — and they lead the league in Run Defense DVOA. The Jets are 28th in DVOA Offense with their best work coming from their rushing attack that ranks 19th in DVOA — but running the ball against the Colts will be problematic as they hold their guests to 3.9 Yards-Per-Carry when playing at home. New York scores only 16.3 PPG and averages 235.6 total YPG this season — and those numbers drop to 11.8 PPG and 235.6 total YPG in their four road games. The Jets have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win. Additionally, they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after scoring at least 30 points in their last game — and they are just 9-23-3 ATS in their last 35 games after passing for at least 250 yards in their last game. New York’s defense is an issue after allowing their last three opponents to score 37.3 PPG and generate 439.7 total YPG. The Jets have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after allowing at least 30 points in their last game. New York goes back on the road on this short week where they are 0-4 with an average losing margin of -19.7 PPG. They allow their home hosts to score 31.5 PPG. The Jets have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games on the road — and they are 14-33-4 ATS in their last 51 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: New York has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games as an underdog — and the Colts are 13-4-1 ATS in their last 18 games on Thursday Night Football. 10* NFL Thursday Night Discounted Deal with the Indianapolis Colts (312) minus the points versus the New York Jets (311). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the New York Giants (277) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (278). THE SITUATION: New York (2-5) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 25-3 upset win against Carolina as a 3-point underdog last week. Kansas City (3-4) looks to rebound from their 27-3 upset loss at Tennessee last week as a 4-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GIANTS PLUS THE POINTS: Many observers expect the Chiefs to take out the frustration of their 24-point loss last week — but Kansas City just needs a win more than they need to make any statements. Be careful laying double-digit points with a team that has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after a loss by at least 14 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss by at least three touchdowns. The Chiefs have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a point spread loss. Kansas City will probably still make the playoffs — but they have some fundamental problems they need to address. Their defense cannot stop anyone — they are allowing 29.0 Points-Per-Game. Using the DVOA metrics at Football Outsiders, the Chiefs have the second-to-worst defense in the league while ranking 31st in both run defense and pass defense. The Titans gained 369 yards against them last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing at least 350 yards in their last game. To make matters worse, Kansas City is turning the ball over too much. Patrick Mahomes has nine interceptions already this season. Mahomes is great — but he is trying to do too much behind a rebuilding offensive line. He might have been lulled into thinking he can consistently avoid trouble after only throwing six interceptions last year. He was very fortunate last season since he had another eight likely interceptions that were dropped by the defensive player. Kansas City has lost the turnover battle in five straight games — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing the turnover battle in at least four straight games. The Chiefs have attempted at least 47 passes in three straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after attempting at least 40 passes in two straight games. Kansas City needs to run the ball more — we will see if that happens. They only ran the ball 13 times last week for 77 yards — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after failing to rush for at least 90 yards in their last game. The Chiefs return home where they have lost two of their three games this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record. New York will be confident entering this game after playing their best game of the season last week. But with just two wins on the season, there is little room for complacency for this group in the second season under head coach Joe Judge. They held the Panthers to just 173 yards last week — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after not allowing more than 250 yards in their last game. The Giants have been a surprisingly reliable team on the road with Daniel Jones at QB. New York has covered the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 29 road games as an underdog including twelve of the last sixteen of those circumstances. The Giants have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on the road with the Total set at 45.5. or higher.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas City has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games at home when laying the points. 10* NFL Monday Night Discounted Deal with the New York Giants (277) plus the points versus the Kansas City Chiefs (278). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Minnesota Vikings (276) minus the points versus the Dallas Cowboys (275). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (3-3) has won three of their last four games after their 34-28 win at Carolina in overtime as a 2.5-point favorite two weeks ago. Dallas (5-1) has won five in a row after their 35-29 win at New England in overtime as a 3.5-point favorite two weeks ago.

REASONS TO TAKE THE VIKINGS MINUS THE POINTS: I am assuming that Dak Prescott will play — although his calf injury may limit his ability to scramble and keep him from being close to 100%. If the Cowboys opt to rest him another week and play Cooper Rush at quarterback, that only makes this Minnesota investment more attractive. The Vikings are underrated after three losses all decided by seven points or less. Minnesota is outgaining their opponents by +55.9 net Yards-Per-Game. They have covered the point spread in 26 of their last 37 home games after a win by six points or less. In generating 571 yards against the Panthers, the Vikings rushed for 198 yards — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after rushing for at least 175 yards in their last game. Kirk Cousins is enjoying a big season that is going mostly under the radar. He is completing 69.5% of his passes with 13 touchdown passes only two interceptions. Minnesota returns home where they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Vikings are also 11-5-1 ATS in their last 17 games in October. Dallas has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after playing a game where at least 50 points were scored. The Cowboys gained 567 yards in that game against the Patriots — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after gaining at least 500 yards in their last game. Dallas outgained New England by +232 net yards despite needing overtime to pull out that game — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games after outgaining their last opponent by at least +150 net yards including failing to cover the point spread in five of these last seven circumstances. And while the offense is averaging 7.2 Yards-Per-Play in their last three games, the Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after averaging at least 6.25 YPP in their last three games — a situation made even worse if Rush is their quarterback.

FINAL TAKE: Dallas has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games played at Minnesota. Even with a healthy Prescott, I was liking the Vikings in this spot all week. 10* NFL Sunday Night Discounted Deal with the Minnesota Vikings (276) minus the points versus the Dallas Cowboys (275). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:25 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the New Orleans Saints (274) plus the points versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (273). THE SITUATION: New Orleans (4-2) has won two games in a row — both on the road — after a 13-10 win at Seattle as a 6-point favorite on Monday Night Football. Tampa Bay (6-1) has won four in a row after their 38-3 victory against Chicago last Sunday as a 12.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SAINTS PLUS THE POINTS: Tampa Bay benefited from an overwhelmed rookie at quarterback in the Bears Justin Fields who helped them earn a +4 net turnover margin in that game. But the Buccaneers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread cover as a double-digit underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by at least 14 points. Now this team goes on the road where they are being outscored this season by -0.6 net Points-Per-Game. Tom Brady and company lost by 10 points in Los Angeles against the Rams before beating New England in overtime by two points and defeating Philadelphia by just six points 2 1/2 weeks ago on Thursday Night Football. The high-powered Patriots offense is scoring only 23.7 PPG in their three road games this season. They have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 13 road games with the Total set in the 42.5-49 point range — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games when favored. The reigning Super Bowl champions have been piling up style points against weak competition — they have played Miami, the Eagles, and the Bears in the last three weeks after the Brady versus Bill Belichick overtime thriller in Foxboro that began their winning streak. The Bucs are not at full health with Antonio Brown out at wide receiver and the secondary banged up including last year’s starting cornerbacks, Carlton Davis and Sean Murphy-Bunting on IR. Tight end Rob Gronkowski, linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul, cornerback Richard Sherman, and linebacker Lavonte David are among the players listed as questionable. New Orleans has covered the point spread in 17 of their last 24 home games after winning their last two games on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after not scoring more than 14 points in their last game. Head coach Sean Payton has transformed this team into a defense-first group that is risk-averse on offense. The Saints defense is allowing only 16.8 Points-Per-Game — and they rank third in the Football Outsiders DVOA metric for defense. Jameis Winston has been underappreciated at quarterback this season — he has not turned the ball over in his six of his games and he has 10 touchdown passes without an interception in the red zone. The organization made a savvy trade this week by re-acquiring veteran running back Mark Ingram from Houston to spell Alvin Kamara who cannot keep touching the ball 30 times per game. Now New Orleans returns to the Big Easy for just the second time all season given a front-loaded road schedule compounded by them playing their opening game in Jacksonville due to Hurricane Ida. The Saints have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games with the Total set in the 42.5-49 point range. They have covered the point spread in 35 of their last 52 games as an underdog including seven of their last eight games. And in their last 9 home games as an underdog, New Orleans has covered the point spread 7 times.

FINAL TAKE: The Saints' defense did a good job of containing Brady in their three games last year. While the Buccaneers beat New Orleans in the playoffs last year by a 30-20 score as a 2.5-point underdog, they lost both regular-season games while scoring just 26 combined points. New Orleans has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 meetings with the Buccaneers — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against NFC South opponents. 25* NFL Underdog of the Month with the New Orleans Saints (274) plus the points versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (273). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:05 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Los Angeles Chargers (270) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (269). THE SITUATION: Los Angeles (4-2) had their three-game winning streak snapped two weeks ago in their 34-6 loss at Baltimore as a 3-point underdog. New England (3-4) has won two of their last three games after their 54-13 win against the New York Jets as a 7.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CHARGERS MINUS THE POINTS: Los Angeles should respond with a vengeance after getting embarrassed by the Ravens. The Chargers have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a loss by 14 or more points. Los Angeles has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after their bye week. The team is getting healthier with linebacker Drue Tranquill and safety Nasir Adderley returning to action and running back Austin Ekeler expected to be active for this game. They return home where they are scoring 30.7 PPG and generating 427.0 total YPG — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games when favored. The Chargers are also 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games in October. New England dominated the Jets last week — but all their wins have been against rookie quarterbacks in Zach Jones twice and Davis Mills. The Patriots have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games after a win by 14 or more points. They are also 0-7-1 ATS in their last 8 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Now they go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: The Chargers’ Justin Herbert is no rookie any longer — and he will be motivated to exact revenge from the 45-0 thumping Bill Belichick and the Patriots exacted on him and his team on December 6th last year. 10* NFL Blowout Bookie Buster with the Los Angeles Chargers (270) minus the points versus the New England Patriots (269). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Steelers (263) plus the points versus the Cleveland Browns (264). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (3-3) has won two games in a row after their 23-20 win in overtime against Seattle as a 5.5-point favorite back on Monday Night Football on October 17th. Cleveland (4-3) snapped a two-game losing streak with their 17-14 win against Denver as a 1.5-point favorite back on Thursday Night Football on October 21st.

REASONS TO TAKE THE STEELERS PLUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a win at home. The Steelers are undervalued right now because Ben Roethlisberger is underrated at this point in his career. While Big Ben’s fantasy value has declined as he continues to age, he is a savvy veteran under center who can still move the offense when he has to. Pittsburgh upset Buffalo to begin the season. Roethlisberger’s problems have more to do with the Steelers' offensive line — but that unit is improving which also helps rookie running back Najee Harris make an impact on the game. Pittsburgh still has a top-ten defense — they rank ninth in Football Outsiders DVOA metric and they also rank ninth in run defense DVOA. The Steelers are dangerous underdogs under head coach Mike Tomlin — they are 25-9-2 ATS in their last 36 games as the dog while covering the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when getting 3.5 to 9.5 points. Furthermore, Pittsburgh is 33-16-2 ATS in their last 51 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 road games as an underdog. The Steelers have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games with the over/under in the 42.5 to 49 point range. Cleveland has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Baker Mayfield will be under center again after backup Case Keenum looked just as capable in leading the offense against the Broncos — but he is still not at full strength with that bum shoulder. The Browns stay at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 home games with the Total in the 42.5-49 point range. Cleveland has also failed to cover the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games in October.

FINAL TAKE: Roethlisberger has a 24-3-1 straight-up record against the Browns in his career after growing up in the Cleveland suburbs. Cleveland is just 10-25-1 ATS in their last 36 games against AFC North competition. 10* NFL Sunday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers (263) plus the points versus the Cleveland Browns (264). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the North Carolina State Wolfpack (126) minus the points versus the Louisville Cardinals (125). THE SITUATION: North Carolina State (5-2) had their four-game winning streak snapped last Saturday in a 31-30 loss at Miami (FL) as a 3.5-point favorite. Louisville (4-3) has won four in a row after a 28-14 win against Boston College as a 4.5-point favorite last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WOLFPACK MINUS THE POINTS: NC State suffered their second upset loss this season with their loss to the Hurricanes. But the Wolfpack have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a loss on the road by three points or less. NC State has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. Quarterback Devin Leary completed 24 of 42 passes for 310 yards with two touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown in the loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after passing for at least 280 yards in their last game. Leary is completing 65% of his passes with 17 touchdown passes and two interceptions. The Wolfpack also has a stout defense. They are fourth in opponent’s Rush Success Rate — and they are allowing only 93.3 rushing YPG which is the tenth lowest in the nation. NC State is also 22nd in the nation in opponent’s Pass Success Rate. They return home where they are 4-0 this season with an average winning margin of +24.0 PPG. They are holding their guests to just 13.8 PPG and 290.3 total YPG — and they are scoring 37.8 PPG and 458.5 total YPG at home. The Wolfpack have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in all 6 games at home against ACC opponents. Louisville held the Eagles to just 266 total yards last week — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 275 yards in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after not allowing more than 20 points in their last game. Despite that good effort, the Cardinals are still allowing 27.0 PPG ranking 76th in the nation — and they have given up at least 30 points four times this season. They lack a pass rush to put pressure on Leary. They also go on the road where they allow their home hosts to average 34.3 PPG and 507.7 YPG. Louisville is just 6-13-1 ATS in their last 20 games on the road — and they are 4-11-1 ATS in their last 16 road games as an underdog. Furthermore, the Cardinals are 10-24-1 ATS in their last 35 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games in October.

FINAL TAKE: NC State did not force a turnover last week — but they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games after not forcing at least one turnover in their last game. Louisville committed four turnovers last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 32 of their last 44 games after committing at least four turnovers in their last game. 25* CFB Game of the Month with the North Carolina State Wolfpack (126) minus the points versus the Louisville Cardinals (125). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Florida Gators (198) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (197). THE SITUATION: Florida (4-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 49-42 upset loss at LSU as a 12.5-point favorite two weeks ago. Georgia (7-0) remained unbeaten with their 30-13 win against Kentucky two Saturdays ago as a 21.5-point favorite. This game will be played on a neutral field at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GATORS PLUS THE POINTS: Turnovers did Florida in on the road in Baton Rouge two weeks ago. The Gators suffered a -4 net turnover margin in that game — but they have then covered the point spread in 32 of their last 48 games away from home after a game where they committed at least three turnovers. The ex-factor for head coach Dan Mullen is freshman quarterback Anthony Richardson who completed 10 of 19 passes for 167 yards while adding 37 rushing yards with a touchdown on the ground. The bye week should allow them time to develop more plays tailored for the exciting player who is averaging 12.6 Yards-Per-Carry and 18.7 Yards-Per-Completion. Florida gained 488 total yards against the Tigers in the loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after gaining at least 450 yards in their last game. The Gators have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games on the road after a loss by seven points or less to an SEC rival. Additionally, Florida has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games after a point spread loss. And in their last 20 games after a bye week, the Gators have covered the point spread in 14 of these games. Georgia dominated the Wildcats two weeks ago by averaging 8.9 Yards-Per-Play while holding them to 3.5 YPP — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after averaging at least 6.75 YPP and limiting their last opponent to 3.75 YPP in their last game. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in five of their seven games this season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Georgia is outstanding on defense as they have not allowed more than 13 points in a game all season — and they have held their last five opponents to 96 or fewer rushing yards. But the Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after not allowing more than 125 rushing yards in four straight games. Georgia has not committed a turnover in three straight games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after not committing more than one turnover in three straight games. Quarterback J.T. Daniels is available to play this afternoon — but that may add some chaos into the equation for the favorites who have been riding senior Stetson Bennett for most of the season.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia has the pressure of being the number one ranked team in the nation — and they have never been favored by more than 13 points against Florida in program history. Their 10-7 opening week win against Clemson does not look nearly as impressive two months later. The Gators will have the confidence that they can pull the upset. After playing Alabama close in the SEC Championship Game last year, Florida lost to the Crimson Tide by a 31-29 score as a 14-point underdog back on September 18th this season. And the Gators upset this Bulldogs team last year by a 44-28 score as a 3-point favorite in last year’s World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. 10* CFB Georgia-Florida CBS-TV Special with the Florida Gators (198) plus the points versus the Georgia Bulldogs (197). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (139) minus the point(s) versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (140). THE SITUATION: Rutgers (3-4) return to action on a four-game losing streak after their 21-7 upset loss at Northwestern as a 2.5-point favorite two weeks ago. Illinois (3-5) has won two of their last three games after their 20-18 upset win at Penn State in nine overtimes as a 24.5-point underdog last Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SCARLET KNIGHTS MINUS THE POINT(S): The bye week could not come soon enough for head coach Greg Schiano in his second year back coaching the Rutgers program. Injuries had hit both sides of the ball including quarterback Noah Vedral who played against Northwestern despite a nagging arm injury. The Scarlet Knights have already endured most of the brutal part of the Big Ten schedule against the powers in the East Division having played Ohio State, Michigan, and Michigan State during their recent losing streak. Rutgers has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset loss as a road favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 13 games after an upset loss to a conference rival. They have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. And while they managed only 222 total yards against the Wildcats, they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after failing to gain at least 275 yards in their last game. They go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games. The Scarlet Knights thrive at defending against the run — they rank 21st in the nation in opponent’s Rushing Success Rate. Illinois is one-dimensional on offense running the ball 58% of the time. They lost quarterback Artur Sitkowksi to a season-ending broken arm in the upset win against the Nittany Lions last week. The former Rutgers transfer took the starting job away from Brandon Peters early in the season. Peters, a former transfer from Michigan, is completing under 49% of his passes while averaging just 5.0 yards per attempt this season. He has not thrown for more than 200 yards this season. There is a reason he left the Wolverines program. The Fighting Illini have passed for just 280 combined yards in their last four games. This group may be due for an emotional letdown after surviving the 2-point contest that their overtime game with Penn State devolved into. The Illini have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after an upset win as a double-digit road underdog. The Fighting Illini ran the ball 67 times for 357 yards in the victory — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games at home after rushing for at least 300 yards. They only gained 38 yards in the air last week — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not passing for more than 75 yards in their last game. They host this game at Memorial Stadium where they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games with the Total set at 42 or less.

FINAL TAKE: First-year head coach Brett Bielema caught Penn State relying on quarterback Sean Clifford who was not 100% dealing with an undisclosed injury that clearly limited his mobility. Rutgers may be winless in Big Ten play — but they swept their three non-conference games including an impressive victory at Syracuse. The Scarlet Knights have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when favored. 25* CFB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (139) minus the point(s) versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (140). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Green Bay Packers (107) plus the points versus the Arizona Cardinals (108). THE SITUATION: Green Bay (6-1) won their sixth game in a row with their 24-10 victory against Washington as an 8.5-point favorite on Sunday. Arizona (7-0) won their seventh straight game to start the season with their 31-5 win against Houston as a 20.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PACKERS PLUS THE POINTS: Green Bay has experienced two big losses themselves this week with wide receivers Davante Adams and Allen Lazard both entering COVID protocol this week. The duo has caught more than 50% of Rodgers’ passes this season. But Rodgers has been in this situation before — and he does what it takes to keep moving the football down the field. In his six games played without his favorite target in Adams, Rodgers has completed over 70% of his passes with 17 touchdown passes and just one interception. Even more interesting, while Rodgers averages 246 passing Yards-Per-Game with Adams playing, he averages 310 passing YPG in these six games without Adams. Marquez Valdes-Scantling is expected back at wide receiver after he has been out with a hamstring injury — he joins Randall Cobb, Equanimeous St. Brown, and tight end Robert Tonyan as reliable targets. This shapes up to be a big game for Aaron Jones not only running the football but catching the ball out of the backfield. Forcing Rodgers to be more creative in finding other targets and doing more with his legs is not necessarily a bad thing. This is a much different challenge for the quarterback who was threatening to sit out the season to force a trade in the summer. The same competitive juices that had him taunting Chicago fans with “I still own you” should motivate him tonight. As it is, the Packers have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. They are also 39-19-2 ATS in their last 61 games after not allowing more than 14 points in their last game. Green Bay is allowing only 316.0 total YPG in their four games on the road. Aaron Rodgers is second in the NFL over the last two seasons with 15 victories as the starting quarterback on the road. The Packers have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 20 games on the road — including four of their last five. Green Bay has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. Arizona is the lone undefeated team in the league — but I think this speaks more to the opponents they have drawn rather than a significant improvement in their defense. They faced two rookie backup quarterbacks last week in rookie Davis Mills with the Texans and Trey Lance with San Francisco three weeks ago. They caught a Cleveland offense ravaged with injuries at running back, the offensive line (both starting tackles were out), and at wide receiver two weeks ago. They even got the Los Angeles Rams flat in a letdown situation after they had just upset Tampa Bay the previous week. Throw in a third rookie quarterback in Week Three when they played Trevor Lawrence at Jacksonville — that is what Arizona has faced since a narrow 34-33 win at home against Minnesota in Week Two. But the Cardinals have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after a win by 21 or more points at home in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 home games following a victory at home. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a winning record on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games when favored. The Cardinals suffered a big loss Wednesday night with the announcement that not only would J.J. Watt miss this game with a shoulder injury but he needs shoulder surgery that will keep him out the rest of the season. Watt has lost a step or two — but he is a savvy veteran who was drawing tons of attention so this is a big loss. Arizona held the hapless Texans to just 160 total yards last week — but they are 2-11-1 ATS in their last 14 games after not allowing more than 250 yards in their last game.

FINAL TAKE: Green Bay has covered the point spread in 4 straight games against NFC opponents — and they are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games on Thursday Night Football. In Rodgers, We Trust to keep it close tonight. 10* NFL Thursday Night Discounted Deal with the Green Bay Packers (107) plus the points versus the Arizona Cardinals (108). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:15 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Seattle Seahawks (474) plus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (473). THE SITUATION: Seattle (2-4) has lost two straight games and four of their last five after their 23-20 loss in overtime at Pittsburgh as a 5.5-point underdog last Sunday. New Orleans (3-2) has won two of their last three games with their 33-22 victory at Washington as a 2.5-point favorite on October 10th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SEAHAWKS PLUS THE POINTS: Seattle started slowly against the Steelers on Sunday Night Football last week as they went into the locker room trailing by a 14-0 deficit. But the Seahawks remained resilient to outscore Pittsburgh in the second half by a 20-6 score to force overtime. Geno Smith was solid under center as the proverbial “game manager.” He completed 23 of 32 passes for 209 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions. He did lose the football in overtime paving the way for the Steelers’ winning field goal — but that play had a lot more to do with the greatness of linebacker T.J. Watt than it did Smith making a mistake. Smith now has 32 career starts in the NFL under his belt. He will be supported by a Seattle rushing attack that gets former first-round pick, Rashaad Penny, back from injury tonight. Alex Collins was very effective last week as the lead back for the Seahawks as he ran the ball 20 times for 101 yards with a touchdown. While he has been slowed in practice all week with a groin injury, head coach Pete Carroll says he is “ready to go” tonight. This is a “gotta have it” game for Seattle with four losses in their first six games. The Seahawks are 34-15-4 ATS in their last 53 games after a straight-up loss with seven-point spread covers in their last ten games after getting beat in their last game. They have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a narrow loss by six points or less — and they have covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a loss on the road. We had Seattle last week. One of my arguments was the absence of Russell Wilson would actually help the defense since there would be less pressure to “Let Russ Cook.” The Seahawks went into that game averaging just 25:16 minutes per game on offense. The bad defensive numbers the team was putting up were made worse by requiring them to be on the field for almost 35 minutes per game. Seattle did lose the time of possession battle to Pittsburgh last week — but they did hold Pittsburgh to just 345 total yards of offense. The 5.8 Yards-Per-Play they held the Steelers to was half a yard less than the 6.3 YPP their opponents were averaging entering that game. The 20 points allowed in regulation and 345 yards allowed was the Seahawks’ best defensive effort since the opening week of the season when they beat Indianapolis on the road by a 28-16 score. Carroll is happiest when he can run the football to control the time of possession and keep his defense off the field. Seattle has also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games as an underdog. New Orleans returns to action after their bye week having beaten the Football Team despite getting outgained in yardage in that game. The Saints also lost the first down battle by a 26 to 18 margin. New Orleans is 3-2 but they are getting outgained by -58.2 net Yards-Per-Game. The Saints have been outgained in four of their five games this season. They are averaging just 295.2 total Yards-Per-Game with head coach Sean Payton keeping a short leash on quarterback Jameis Winston. New Orleans is running the ball in 54.9% of their plays on offense — and they are averaging only 24 pass attempts per game. Payton is trying to keep Winston from reverting back to his form with Tampa Bay when he was an interception machine. Keeping Winston from making mistakes in the Bomb Cyclone conditions tonight may be impossible. Like last night in Santa Clara, rain is expected all game with winds averaging 18 miles per hour and gusting to 23 miles per hour. Payton will not have his short-yardage specialist Taysom Hill tonight who is out as he recovers from a concussion. Wide receiver Michael Thomas is also still on Injured Reserve leaving the Saints without threats at wide receiver. New Orleans’ elite left tackle, Terron Armstead is also out indefinitely with an elbow injury. Even with the bye week, the Saints continue a challenging stretch of game with this being their second straight and fifth of their first six games away from New Orleans.

FINAL TAKE: The Saints have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on Monday Night Football -- and Seattle owns MNF. Not only are the Seahawks 11-5-1 ATS in their last 17 games on Monday Night Football, but they have won eleven of their thirteen appearances on MNF in the Carroll regime. 25* NFL Monday Night Football Game of the Month with the Seattle Seahawks (474) plus the points versus the New Orleans Saints (473). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the San Francisco 49ers (472) minus the points versus the Indianapolis Colts (471). THE SITUATION: San Francisco (2-3) comes off their bye week looking to snap a three-game losing streak after a 17-10 loss at Arizona as a 6-point underdog two weeks ago. Indianapolis (2-4) has won two of their last three games with their 31-17 win against Houston as an 11.5-point favorite last Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 49ERS MINUS THE POINTS: The 49ers need a victory desperately in the uber-competitive NFC West after losing at home to Seattle before their loss to the Cardinals. San Francisco has covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after a loss on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after losing two in a row to division rivals. Additionally, the 49ers have covered the point spread in their last 3 games after a bye week under head coach Kyle Shanahan. San Francisco is the only team with a losing record in the league to be outgaining their opponents in yardage. They have a +38.4 net YPG mark due to their defense that is holding their opponents to just 329.8 total YPG. And while they are winless at home in their first two games, they have outgained Green Bay and the Seahawks by +84.0 net YPG while holding them to just 293.5 total YPG. They get Jimmy Garoppolo back under center for this game. The main reason why the franchise felt the need to trade up in the draft to select Trey Lance is because of Garoppolo’s injury history. When he is healthy, he is good. Garoppolo has a 24-10 record as a starting quarterback since 2017 with a 98 Passer Rating and a completion percentage of 67%. The Colts average 4.7 Rushing Yards-Per-Carry this season — but the Niners have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games against teams who average at least 4.5 YPC. Indianapolis has covered the point spread in three straight games as well as four of their last five contests. But the Colts have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after covering the point spread in two straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after covering the point spread in four of their last five games. This is a tough spot for Indianapolis with them playing their fourth game on the road in their last five games. And with a showdown with Tennessee on deck, the urgency of this game is lessened. Sure, Indy wants to win this game — but having already lost to the Titans earlier this year, being ready to play that game is of higher importance. That could impact the playing time for some of their injured players. As it is, safety Julian Blackman is out for the rest of the season with an Achilles’ injury. Cornerback Rock Ya-Sin is also out tonight. The offense is without T.Y. Hilton and Parris Campbell at wide receiver. Right tackle Braden Smith is also out. Quarterback Carson Wentz has been playing better — but perhaps his four straight games without an interception only indicate he is well overdue. The weather forecast calls for a bomb cyclone on the west coast tonight — meaning high winds and perhaps lots of rain. Wentz does not handle adversity very well.

FINAL TAKE: Indianapolis has failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 41 games against teams winning 40-49% of their games. 25* NFL Sunday Night Football Game of the Month with the San Francisco 49ers (472) minus the points versus the Indianapolis Colts (471). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the USC Trojans (407) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (408). THE SITUATION: USC (3-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 42-26 upset loss at home to Utah as a 2.5-point favorite on October 9th. Notre Dame (5-1) takes the field again after their 32-29 upset win at Virginia Tech as a 1-point underdog on October 9th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TROJANS PLUS THE POINTS: USC outgained the Utes two weeks ago by seven yards but lost the turnover battle en route to losing the game. The Trojans are 38-17-1 ATS in their last 56 games after a straight-up loss — and they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games after a double-digit loss at home. USC has also covered the pint spread in 12 of their last 15 games after allowing at least 42 points in their last game. The Trojans are in transition after firing head coach Clay Helton earlier in the season. Interim head coach Donte Williams is auditioning for a head coaching gig moving forward — and both coordinators have plenty to work for regarding future coaching gigs. USC seems to always be inconsistent — but after losing to Utah, the players should be motivated to play in South Bend against an arch-rival on national television. USC has covered the point spread in 4 straight games on the road — and they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. And while the Trojans have played three straight Overs, they have then covered the point spread in 13  of their last 16 road games after playing at least three straight overs. Quarterback Kedon Slovis was banged up earlier in the season — but he is getting healthy again. He completed 33 of 53 passes for 401 yards with two touchdowns against a good Utah defense. The extra week of rest should help — and USC has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a bye week. Notre Dame has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a close win by three points or less on the road. That was the Fighting Irish’s third victory this season by just a field goal against mediocre competition after also just getting by Florida State and Toledo before the Hokies. Notre Dame is younger this year — and they are dealing with injuries. This Trojans team has more talent than those three teams they beat by a field goal — USC’s issue is focus. The Irish return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as a favorite. Notre Dame pinned their hopes on Wisconsin grad transfer Jack Coan at quarterback who lost his job to the guy struggling under center for the Badgers now. The Fighting Irish have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games with the Total set in the 56.5 to 63 point range — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games in October.

FINAL TAKE: USC has lost by just seven and three points — while covering the point spread — in their previous two encounters when unranked against an Irish team ranked in the top-15. 10* CFB USC-Notre Dame NBC-TV Special with the USC Trojans (407) plus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (408). Best of luck for us — Frank.