Saturday's Tip Sheet

[Lumi]

Saturday's Tip Sheet


Clemson (8-3 SU, 7-3 ATS) at South Carolina (6-5 SU, 6-4 ATS)

Skinny: The Tigers have won five in a row, while the Gamecocks have dropped three straight. Clemson has won six of the last seven meetings, including three consecutive on the road. The 'over' has gone 4-3 during this stretch.

Handicapper Analysis: ? Clemson has an even bigger game on deck ? next week?s ACC Championship game vs Georgia Tech in which the winner goes to a BCS Bowl. That?s not to say they will overlook the Gamecocks but certainly thoughts of next week have to be in their minds.

The Bet: Clemson's offense has been on a roll this year and it has the ability to score on special teams. We expect South Carolina to be happy to be playing outside the SEC and it should able to score some points against the Tigers. Play OVER 44.

North Carolina (8-3 SU, 5-4 ATS) at N.C. State (4-7 SU, 3-6 ATS)

Skinny: The Tar Heels have won and covered four in a row heading into this battle. N.C. State has just one victory in its last seven and that came against Marshall. The Wolfpack defense (31.5 PPG) has been horrible all year. UNC is hoping to snap a two-game losing skid to N.C. State on Saturday. Four of the last five in this series has gone 'over' the number.

Handicapper Analysis: ? North Carolina is looking for payback against their cross state rivals after last seasons embarrassing 31 point loss in Chapel Hill. You know Butch Davis didn't forget about that blowout.

The Bet: UNC's defense (15.9 PPG) doesn't get a lot of respect but is one of the better units in the ACC. With that being said, we're not afraid to lay a short number on the road in this intrastate rivalry. Play North Carolina -6.

Oklahoma State (9-2 SU, 5-4 ATS) at Oklahoma (6-5 SU, 3-6 ATS)

Skinny: Oklahoma's season ended in Week 1 when it lost to BYU and Oklahoma State's year has been better but setbacks to Houston and Texas hurt the school in the big picture. The Sooners have owned the Cowboys recently, going 6-0 SU and 4-2 ATS in the last six encounters. Five have come by double digits too.

Handicapper Analysis: ? We understand Oklahoma State is 0-4 under head coach Mike Gundy against the Sooners, but this team is vastly improved and it is undefeated on the road this year.

The Bet: Prior to last week's loss to Texas Tech (13-41), the Sooners other four losses were by a combined 12 points. In Norman this year, they've won by 64, 45, 26, 12 and 55. We don't expect margins like that against OSU, but a big effort from the defense is expected. Play UNDER 49.

Virginia Tech (8-3 SU, 5-5 ATS) at Virginia (3-8 SU, 5-4 ATS)

Skinny: Is the end of the road for head coach Al Groh at Virginia? The Hokies haven't had a great season as far as their standards go but the team has won three in a row behind a defense that has given up 22 points during this streak. UVA enters this game with a five-game losing streak. V-Tech has won five in a row (4-1 ATS) but last year's battle in Blacksburg was just a 17-14 victory.

Handicapper Analysis: ? It's hard to justify laying heavy points with VT considering its 1-3-1 ATS this season on the road. However, this UVA team is 1-4 SU and 1-3 ATS at home this year.

The Bet: This is Virginia's bowl game and while we might be kicking ourselves after the first 15 minutes, we expect the Cavaliers to keep it close. Play Virginia +15.5.

Florida State (6-5 SU, 2-7 ATS) at Florida (11-0 SU, 4-5 ATS)

Skinny: Bobby Bowden's status as head coach for Florida State is still up in the air but the team has rallied for two straight wins. The Semionles' defense (30.2 PPG) has been torched up and down the field this year but the Gators' offense (36.5) is one-dimensional. Florida has won five straight (4-1 ATS) in this series and the 'under' has gone 4-1 during this span.

Handicapper Analysis: ? Florida has a huge QB edge with Tim Tebow over Florida State freshman E.J. Manuel, who threw three interceptions last week against Maryland. Now he faces a tough Florida secondary that is known for ball-hawking.

The Bet: The Seminoles know they can't win a shootout so expect them to try to slow down the game with their young quarterback and load up the line scrimmage against Tebow. Florida will run the clock and try to stay healthy with the SEC Championship on deck. Play UNDER 56.

Arizona (6-4 SU, 5-4 ATS) at Arizona State (4-7 SU, 5-5 ATS)

Skinny: The Wildcats could have a hangover in this spot after losing to Oregon (41-44) in overtime last week. The Sun Devils won't be bowling this year and do own a 3-3 SU and 4-1 ATS mark at home. Arizona blasted Arizona State 31-10 last year, which snapped a three-game losing skid to the Devils. The 'under' has hit in four straight and six of the previous seven meetings.

Handicapper Analysis: ? Phil Steele: The road team is 13-4 ATS (9-8 SU) in the last 17 meetings but ASU is 5-2 SU (3-5 ATS) in this instate rivalry and the HT is 5-1 SU. The last 2 games (?05 and ?07) in Tempe have both been decided by only a FG.

The Bet: The ASU defense has been stout at home this year, giving up 16.5 PPG. Arizona has the ability to put up points but we're expecting a letdown in Tempe. Look for a tight battle with the final score decided by a field goal either way. Play UNDER 44.

Utah (9-2 SU, 4-7 ATS) at BYU (9-2 SU, 5-5 ATS)

Skinny: The Holy War is a tough one to handicap since both teams are very comparable. Plus, Utah is 1-4 ATS on the road and BYU is 1-3 ATS at home. The Cougars are 5-2 SU and 4-3 ATS in the last seven meetings against the Utes. The 'under' has gone 4-3 during this BYU run.

Handicapper Analysis: ? The Gold Sheet: Revenge (especially for QB Max Hall, who tossed 5 picks in BYU?s 48-24 loss at Salt Lake City a year ago) ought to at least ensure a focused effort from Cougars, something Bronco Mendenhall hasn?t been able to coax consistently from his troops the past five weeks.

The Bet: The Utes (29 PPG) and Cougars (35.5 PPG) have both shown that they can put points up on the board this year and neither team has a super defense. The winner should get to 30-plus in this spot. Play the OVER 53.

Arkansas (7-4 SU, 6-3 ATS) at LSU (8-3 SU, 5-4 ATS)

Skinny: Arkansas has quietly ripped off four straight wins and covers behind an explosive offense. LSU has three losses this year, but they came against Florida, Alabama and Ole Miss. This has been a great series, with the last four decided by five points or less. The underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last four.

Handicapper Analysis: ? Phil Steele: LSU has won 35 of 36 games on Saturday Night at home, with the lone loss coming earlier this year against top-ranked Florida. This one will probably come down to the wire.

The Bet: The Razorbacks are on a roll and a lot of folks are questioning head coach Les Miles and LSU these days but we believe they'll step up in their home finale. Play LSU -3.5.

Georgia (6-5 SU, 3-7 ATS) at Georgia Tech (10-1 SU, 7-3 ATS)

Skinny: The Yellow Jackets have already locked up a spot in the ACC Championship next week against Clemson, which could make you believe they're looking ahead. Georgia is in a down year but it still has talent to compete. Georgia has owned this series lately, going 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS in the last eight games. The 'under' has gone 5-3 over this stretch.

Handicapper Analysis: ? UGA is coming off a home loss to Kentucky that just about sums up the school's woes in 2009. Georgia. Tech is rolling toward the ACC title game with eight straight wins and a 7-1 ATS mark in that stretch.

The Bet: Georgia Tech caught Georgia 45-42 last year under first-year head coach Paul Johnson but we don't expect that to happen again. The Yellow Jackets' offense is great but the defense is suspect and four of the last five have been decided by a touchdown or less. Play Georgia +7.5.

UCLA (6-5 SU, 6-5 ATS) at Southern California (7-3 SU, 2-8 ATS)

Skinny: Mighty Troy has definitely taken a step backwards this season and if there was ever a time for UCLA to earn bragging rights, it could be this year. The Bruins have won and covered three straight while USC is 1-2 SU and 0-3 ATS in its last three, both losses by a combined 61 points. The 'under' has cashed in the last three head-to-head battles. USC is 9-1 SU in the last 10 versus UCLA. Perhaps a teaser play, right?

Handicapper Analysis: ? UCLA?s defense should do enough to stay close against what?s been a very ordinary USC offense that ranks just # 49 nationally in yards gained and # 58 in points scored.

The Bet: The Bruins have covered three in a row in this series and the point-spread makes you believe that they could have a shot again on Saturday. USC has nothing to play for while UCLA is looking for respect in Los Angeles. Play the Bruins +13.

 

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Public Enemies - Week 13

Public Enemies - Week 13

Public Enemies - Week 13



A handful of rivalry games took place last week as Ohio State beat Michigan, while Cal upended Stanford. The action escalates this week, with the Iron Bowl, Apple Cup, Egg Bowl, and Bedlam all taking center-stage. As far as public darlings go, we'll take a look at four games this Saturday that you want to take a second glance at before pulling the trigger.

Clemson (-3) at South Carolina - 12:00 PM EST

The battle of the Palmetto State always has bragging rights on the line, but Clemson is actually looking forward to its first ACC Championship game next week against Georgia Tech. The Gamecocks, meanwhile, have dropped three straight, including a 24-14 loss to top-ranked Florida two weeks ago.

The Tigers are riding a six-game winning streak, while scoring at least 34 points in each contest. Clemson has owned this series, capturing six of the last seven meetings, including the last three in Columbia. South Carolina's offense has slipped up considerably since mid-October, not posting more than 16 points in any of its last five games.

The Gamecocks have a great shot to pull the upset, "Statistically these teams are remarkably even in terms of yardage, but the scoring numbers have not added up for the Gamecocks through a much tougher schedule. South Carolina is bowl eligible, but this will be a key game coming off narrow losses in this series the past two years. The Gamecocks have not had an off week all season long so this should be a rejuvenated squad that had been worn down by the physical SEC schedule. The motivation has to come into question for Clemson as a lot more will be on the line next week with the ACC championship. South Carolina will prove how tough an SEC defense can be."

Syracuse at Connecticut (-13 ?) - 12:00 PM EST

The Huskies pulled a moderate upset last week in South Bend, knocking off Notre Dame in two overtimes, 33-30. UConn has been an excellent team to back this season, covering nine of ten games. The victory over the Fighting Irish was the first for the Huskies since the death of CB Jasper Howard following the Louisville game on October 17.

The Orange is coming off a solid home victory over Rutgers, blowing out the Scarlet Knights, 31-13, as ten-point 'dogs. UConn has drilled Syracuse the last two seasons by a combined score of 69-23, covering each time as a double-digit favorite. The Huskies have lost five games this season by four points or less, as UConn is several plays away from being a solid player in the Big East.

Despite both teams coming off emotional victories last week, the better spot may be to back the underdog, "The Huskies need one more win to reach a bowl game, but last week's win felt like a bowl game for Connecticut and a letdown is likely coming off a highly anticipated game with an emotional result. Connecticut also has two games to get to six victories while this is the finale for Syracuse."

Syracuse's defense has been a strength, , the Huskies may struggle on the ground, "The Connecticut offense has been less efficient with QB Zach Frazer back at QB and Syracuse has proven to be very solid against the run this season. Look for the Orange to deliver another solid effort while catching Connecticut in a difficult spot. The Huskies have been an incredible ATS team this season, but that run could end as the Huskies will be overvalued this week. No matter whom the opponent is the Huskies seem to play a close game."

Tennessee (-3) at Kentucky - 7:00 PM EST

The Wildcats turned in an impressive effort last week at Georgia, rallying past the Bulldogs, 34-27, while cashing as ten-point underdogs. Kentucky improved to 7-4 SU and 6-5 ATS with the win, but this week presents a much larger challenge for the 'Cats, hosting Tennessee. The Vols have beaten UK 24 straight times, dating back to 1985, while this is the first time ever Tennessee will play a night contest in Lexington.

Lane Kiffin's club is coming off a 31-16 home victory over Vanderbilt, but the Vols are winless on the road, going 0-3, while averaging 13 ppg away from Knoxville. Tennessee has been a solid road favorite, covering six of the last eight when laying points away from Neyland Stadium.

Kiffin has helped keep Tennessee competitive despite dropping some close contests, "The Wildcats have the better record, but the Volunteers have played the tougher schedule and appear to be the superior team statistically on both sides of the ball. While Kentucky enters this game off an upset win over Georgia, Tennessee did what it needed to do last week to beat Vanderbilt in a somewhat uninspired performance. Kentucky has won five of the last six games, but there have only been two quality victories on the season. Tennessee's losses have been more impressive than their wins as they played Florida and Alabama tougher than just about anyone."

The motivation may not lie with the Vols, "This line is not where it should be as these teams rate nearly identically and Tennessee has zero SU road wins this season. Kentucky is proving to be a tough match-up and even though Tennessee has had success in this series, this is a different coaching staff and the Vols enter this game off a rivalry win that clinched a bowl spot last week. Tennessee gets a bit more respect in the media but Kentucky continues to impress with a 5-1 spread record the last six lined games."

Notre Dame at Stanford (-10) - 8:00 PM EST

The luster has dimmed a bit on the Cardinal, after Stanford was upset by Cal in the "Big Game" last week in Palo Alto. Jim Harbaugh's team is still in the midst of an excellent season at 7-4, but is looking to snap a seven-game skid against the Irish. Notre Dame may be nearing the end of the Charlie Weis era, after the Irish slipped up against UConn, falling to 6-5 SU and a horrible 3-8 ATS.

The Cardinal, despite losing to Cal, is still 5-2 ATS as a favorite, including a 3-0 ATS mark when laying at least 9 ? points. The 'over' has hit in five of the last six for Stanford, with the lone 'under' falling three points short in a win over Arizona State.

He feels that the Irish holds some value in this 'dog spot, "There is some talk of what a mismatch this game is, but statistically Notre Dame is slightly better on both sides of the ball in terms of yardage. Stanford has the edge on the ground rushing for nearly 220 yards per game, but last week the Cardinal got caught and could not keep the momentum going. Notre Dame has won seven straight games in this series and even though the Irish are reeling right now they will still carry the prestige of an elite program and the Cardinal may feel like an underdog even if Vegas certainly speaks to the contrary."

The quarterback battle certainly favors the Irish, as Jimmy Clausen has a great shot to put up big numbers, according to Nelson, "Stanford freshman QB Andrew Luck made some mistakes last week and overall is completing just 55 percent of his passes, greatly overshadowed by the numbers that Clausen has posted. Stanford is 11-1 ATS in the last twelve home games, but that one loss came last week and the string of big games has caught up to the Cardinals. Stanford's pass defense has been picked apart in several games, notably against Oregon State and Arizona so this may be a more problematic match-up than it appears."

 

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LVSC Rankings - Week 13

LVSC Rankings - Week 13

LVSC Rankings - Week 13

As we approach the final two weeks of the college football season, the oddsmakers at Las Vegas Sports Consultants continue to tweak their numbers for the upcoming bowls and BCS Championship.
Not much change in this week's rankings, with the top five remaining the same. Florida (1) and Alabama (3) represent seven schools from the SEC, which has been the powerhouse conference all season long. Having seven schools ranked highly by the oddsmakers at LVSC out of a possible 12 is impressive, but that's not as good as another group.

The Pac 10 has six schools listed in the latest rankings, with Oregon (5) leading the charge out of the Great Northwest.. Chip Kelly's team captured a thrilling 44-41 double-overtime victory over Arizona last week and is only a win against Oregon State from earning a spot in the Rose Bowl against Ohio State.

TCU (4) is the lone mid-major amongst the big boys and still might be a longshot to reach the BCS Championship but if it does get an opportunity, don't expect the Horned Frogs to be heavy underdogs. BYU (26) joins TCU as the other school representing the Mountain West Conference.

The ACC Championship is all set in two weeks, with Georgia Tech (10) and Clemson (13) meeting in a rematch from Tampa Bay. Before the showdown the two schools have intrastate rivalries on tap this week against Georgia and South Carolina respectively.

The Big East and Big Ten both have three schools listed in the LVSC Top 30, while Boise State (7) remains the lone school representing the WAC.

Below is a complete breakdown of this week's LVSC Rankings.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants - Week 13 Rankings
Rank Team Rating Last Week BCS Rank
1 Florida 121.4 1 1
2 Texas 120.8 2 3
3 Alabama 117.3 3 2
4 Texas Christian 115.9 4 4
5 Oregon 113.8 5 8
6 Ohio State 112.1 7 10
7 Boise State 112.0 8 6
8 Penn State 110.5 11 13
9 Cincinnati 110.2 9 5
10 Georgia Tech 110.0 10 7
10 Oklahoma 110.0 6 NR
12 Mississippi 109.6 15 25
13 Clemson 109.5 13 18
13 LSU 109.5 11 15
15 Virginia Tech 109.2 18 14
16 Texas Tech 109.1 20 NR
16 Southern Cal 109.1 16 20
18 Nebraska 108.9 17 NR
18 Stanford 108.9 13 NR
20 Oklahoma State 108.3 19 12
21 Iowa 108.2 20 11
22 Arkansas 108.0 23 NR
22 Miami 108.0 23 17
22 Pittsburgh 108.0 22 9
25 Oregon State 107.6 25 16
26 Arizona 106.8 28 NR
26 Brigham Young 106.8 26 19
28 Tennessee 106.2 26 NR
29 California 106.0 NR (32) 22
30 Connecticut 105.5 NR (34) NR
Dropped out of Top 30: Georgia (29) and Boston College (30)
Next 10: Georgia, West Virginia, Nevada, Boston College, Florida State, Wisconsin, South Carolina, Utah (21 BCS), Michigan State, Auburn.

 

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DUNKEL INDEX 28 NOV 09

DUNKEL INDEX 28 NOV 09

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Time Posted: 10:00 p.m. EST (11/25)
Game 137-138: Virginia Tech at Virginia
Dunkel Ratings: Virginia Tech 100.742; Virginia 82.268
Dunkel Line: Virginia Tech by 18 1/2; 38
Vegas Line: Virginia Tech by 16; 42
Dunkel Pick: Virginia Tech (-16); Under
Game 139-140: Syracuse at Connecticut
Dunkel Ratings: Syracuse 79.940; Connecticut 96.006
Dunkel Line: Connecticut by 16; 44
Vegas Line: Connecticut by 13 1/2; 48 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (-13 1/2); Under
Game 141-142: Wake Forest at Duke
Dunkel Ratings: Wake Forest 91.275; Duke 86.292
Dunkel Line: Wake Forest by 5; 55
Vegas Line: Wake Forest by 4 1/2; 52 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Wake Forest (-4 1/2); Over
Game 143-144: Clemson at South Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Clemson 99.898; South Carolina 93.341
Dunkel Line: Clemson by 6 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Clemson by 3; 44
Dunkel Pick: Clemson (-3); Over
Game 145-146: North Carolina at NC State
Dunkel Ratings: North Carolina 92.630; NC State 87.342
Dunkel Line: North Carolina by 5 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: North Carolina by 6; 50
Dunkel Pick: NC State (+6); Under
Game 147-148: Missouri at Kansas
Dunkel Ratings: Missouri 89.195; Kansas 92.142
Dunkel Line: Kansas by 3; 64
Vegas Line: Missouri by 3; 57
Dunkel Pick: Kansas (+3); Over
Game 149-150: Tennessee at Kentucky
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 96.109; Kentucky 95.786
Dunkel Line: Even; 54
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 3; 50 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kentucky (+3); Over
Game 151-152: Mississippi at Mississippi State
Dunkel Ratings: Mississippi 101.097; Mississippi State 93.051
Dunkel Line: Mississippi by 8; 46
Vegas Line: Mississippi by 7 1/2; 48
Dunkel Pick: Mississippi (-7 1/2); Under
Game 153-154: New Mexico at TCU
Dunkel Ratings: New Mexico 68.811; TCU 111.681
Dunkel Line: TCU by 43; 59
Vegas Line: TCU by 45; 55
Dunkel Pick: New Mexico (+45); Over
Game 155-156: Southern Mississippi at East Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Mississippi 84.599; East Carolina 94.264
Dunkel Line: East Carolina by 9 1/2; 60
Vegas Line: East Carolina by 6; 55
Dunkel Pick: East Carolina (-6); Over
Game 157-158: Central Florida at UAB
Dunkel Ratings: Central Florida 90.934; UAB 82.163
Dunkel Line: Central Florida by 9; 49
Vegas Line: Central Florida by 3; 52 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Central Florida (-3); Under
Game 159-160: Marshall at UTEP
Dunkel Ratings: Marshall 82.023; UTEP 77.725
Dunkel Line: Marshall by 4 1/2;
Vegas Line: UTEP by 1 1/2; 56
Dunkel Pick: Marshall (+1 1/2);
Game 161-162: Tulane at SMU
Dunkel Ratings: Tulane 68.660; SMU 81.445
Dunkel Line: SMU by 13; 53
Vegas Line: SMU by 17 1/2; 56
Dunkel Pick: Tulane (+17 1/2); Under
Game 163-164: Baylor at Texas Tech
Dunkel Ratings: Baylor 82.057; Texas Tech 109.769
Dunkel Line: Texas Tech by 27 1/2; 55
Vegas Line: Texas Tech by 20 1/2; 57 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Texas Tech (-20 1/2); Under
Game 165-166: Oklahoma State at Oklahoma
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma State 104.296; Oklahoma 107.533
Dunkel Line: Oklahoma by 3; 53
Vegas Line: Oklahoma by 9 1/2; 48 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma State (+9 1/2); Over
Game 167-168: Florida State at Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Florida State 94.044; Florida 110.869
Dunkel Line: Florida by 17; 60
Vegas Line: Florida by 24 1/2; 56
Dunkel Pick: Florida State (+24 1/2); Over
Game 169-170: Georgia at Georgia Tech
Dunkel Ratings: Georgia 92.910; Georgia Tech 104.383
Dunkel Line: Georgia Tech by 11 1/2; 66
Vegas Line: Georgia Tech by 7 1/2; 60
Dunkel Pick: Georgia Tech (-7 1/2); Over
Game 171-172: Utah at BYU
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 93.737; BYU 95.862
Dunkel Line: BYU by 2; 48
Vegas Line: BYU by 7 1/2; 53
Dunkel Pick: Utah (+7 1/2); Under
Game 173-174: Rice at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Rice 63.422; Houston 95.043
Dunkel Line: Houston by 31 1/2; 82
Vegas Line: Houston by 29 1/2; 74
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-29 1/2); Over
Game 175-176: Utah State at Idaho
Dunkel Ratings: Utah State 76.023; Idaho 82.008
Dunkel Line: Idaho by 6; 68
Vegas Line: Idaho by 2 1/2; 65 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Idaho (-2 1/2); Over
Game 177-178: Washington State at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Washington State 65.057; Washington 91.822
Dunkel Line: Washington by 27; 63
Vegas Line: Washington by 24 1/2; 59
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-24 1/2); Over
Game 179-180: Arizona at Arizona State
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 97.925; Arizona State 92.002
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 6; 42
Vegas Line: Arizona by 3; 44
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-3); Under
Game 181-182: Boston College at Maryland
Dunkel Ratings: Boston College 91.362; Maryland 84.089
Dunkel Line: Boston College by 7 1/2; 32
Vegas Line: Boston College by 6; 36 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston College (-6); Under
Game 183-184: Miami (FL) at South Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (FL) 98.831; South Florida 92.685
Dunkel Line: Miami (FL) by 6; 54
Vegas Line: Miami (FL) by 6 1/2; 52
Dunkel Pick: South Florida (+6 1/2); Over
Game 185-186: Arkansas at LSU
Dunkel Ratings: Arkansas 100.342; LSU 105.200
Dunkel Line: LSU by 5; 60
Vegas Line: LSU by 3 1/2; 53
Dunkel Pick: LSU (-3 1/2); Over
Game 187-188: New Mexico State at San Jose State
Dunkel Ratings: New Mexico State 59.186; San Jose State 72.402
Dunkel Line: San Jose State by 13; 39
Vegas Line: San Jose State by 10 1/2; 41
Dunkel Pick: San Jose State (-10 1/2); Under
Game 189-190: Notre Dame at Stanford
Dunkel Ratings: Notre Dame 92.605; Stanford 102.940
Dunkel Line: Stanford by 10 1/2; 66
Vegas Line: Stanford by 10; 64 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Stanford (-10); Over
Game 191-192: San Diego State at UNLV
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego State 70.178; UNLV 78.926
Dunkel Line: UNLV by 9; 64
Vegas Line: UNLV by 6 1/2; 59 1/2
Dunkel Pick: UNLV (-6 1/2); Over
Game 193-194: UCLA at USC
Dunkel Ratings: UCLA 92.524; USC 98.038
Dunkel Line: USC by 5 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: USC by 13; 47 1/2
Dunkel Pick: UCLA (+13); Under
Game 195-196: Navy at Hawaii
Dunkel Ratings: Navy 87.058; Hawaii 79.068
Dunkel Line: Navy by 8; 58
Vegas Line: Navy by 9 1/2; 54 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Hawaii (+9 1/2); Over
Game 197-198: Western Kentucky at Florida Atlantic
Dunkel Ratings: Western Kentucky 61.494; Florida Atlantic 74.747
Dunkel Line: Florida Atlantic by 13 1/2; 72
Vegas Line: Florida Atlantic by 14; 68 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Western Kentucky (+14); Over
Game 199-200: Middle Tennessee State at UL Monroe
Dunkel Ratings: Middle Tennessee State 84.727; UL Monroe 76.273
Dunkel Line: Middle Tennessee State by 8 1/2; 48
Vegas Line: Middle Tennessee State by 3 1/2; 52 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Middle Tennessee State (-3 1/2); Under
Game 201-202: North Texas at Arkansas State
Dunkel Ratings: North Texas 64.624; Arkansas State 71.374
Dunkel Line: Arkansas State by 6 1/2; 57
Vegas Line: Arkansas State by 8; 54
Dunkel Pick: North Texas (+8); Over
Game 203-204: Troy at UL-Lafayette
Dunkel Ratings: Troy 85.476; UL Lafayette 72.743
Dunkel Line: Troy by 12 1/2; 59
Vegas Line: Troy by 9 1/2; 56
Dunkel Pick: Troy (-9 1/2); Over

OTHER MAJOR GAMES:
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. EST (11/18)
Holy Cross at Villanova
Dunkel Ratings: Holy Cross 63.931; Villanova 86.863
Dunkel Line: Villanova by 23
South Carolina State at Appalachian State
Dunkel Ratings: South Carolina State 68.417; Appalachian State 83.699
Dunkel Line: Appalachian State by 15 1/2
Elon at Richmond
Dunkel Ratings: Elon 78.521; Richmond 83.505
Dunkel Line: Richmond by 5
Weber State at William & Mary
Dunkel Ratings: Weber State 74.775; William & Mary 80.624
Dunkel Line: William & Mary by 6
Eastern Illinois at Southern Illinois
Dunkel Ratings: Eastern Illinois 63.551; Southern Illinois 86.388
Dunkel Line: Southern Illinois by 23
South Dakota State at Montana
Dunkel Ratings: South Dakota State 77.370; Montana 79.541
Dunkel Line: Montana by 2
Eastern Washington at Stephen F. Austin
Dunkel Ratings: Eastern Washington 73.290; Stephen F. Austin 68.546
Dunkel Line: Eastern Washington by 5
New Hampshire at McNeese State
Dunkel Ratings: New Hampshire 74.014; McNeese State 72.530
Dunkel Line: New Hampshire by 1 1/2
Grambling State vs. Southern
Dunkel Ratings: Grambling State 53.821; Southern 51.292
Dunkel Line: Grambling State by 2 1/2
Texas Southern vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Dunkel Ratings: Texas Southern 43.297; Arkansas-Pine Bluff 47.479
Dunkel Line: Arkansas-Pine Bluff by 4

 

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College Football Moves of the Week:

College Football Moves of the Week:

College Football Moves of the Week:

** Pittsburgh opened 2-point favorites at West Virginia, but dog money has come in pushing the number to pick.
** Ohio U was getting 3-points from Temple but dropped to Pick.
** The game of the weekend also saw the best early action of the week. Boise State?s final real challenge has a lot of backers in Las Vegas. The game opened Broncos minus-11.5 and currently sits 14 over Nevada.
** Virginia Tech opened 14 at Virginia and currently sits at 16.
** Missouri opened minus-5 to Kansas in the Border War Game and surprising Kansas money has come in despite the issues within the Jayhawk community. Missouri is 3.5-point favorites now,
** East Carolina has been bet from 3-point home favorites over Southern Miss to 6.
** UNLV opened a 3.5-point home favorite to San Diego State and is now 6.5.

The game I find the most intriguing is the UCLA-USC game. It won?t match the action of the Boise State game, or have as much on the line for that matter, but the city of Los Angeles is up for grabs. UCLA Coach Rick Neuheisel preached about getting to the level of USC very soon. Little did he expect it to get that way by USC getting closer to their level. UCLA has won three straight coming into this game while USC has lost two of their last three in embarrassing fashion. This game is about saving some dignity for Troy while UCLA will use it to show prosperity.

USC has been a solid 14-point favorite all week. Even though the game is at the Coliseum, you can still expect to have a large contingency of powder blue in the stands who are excited as ever for this game based on the appearance of a down USC team.

 

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The fall of Troy: Cappers don't expect USC to stay down

The fall of Troy: Cappers don't expect USC to stay down

The fall of Troy: Cappers don't expect USC to stay down

The men of Troy resisted the Grecians for 10 years during the Trojan War, but their glorious kingdom eventually fell.

Like the deceptive Trojan Horse tactic Greece employed to conquer Troy, opposing teams have recently discovered a way to pierce the USC armor.

The Achilles? heal in USC?s battle with mediocrity in 2009 has been both the offense and defense.

The Trojans? once-formidable defense has surrendered an average of 34.8 points per game in the team?s last five outings. USC?s potent pro-style offense has only been able to muster an average of 18.3 points per outing over the last three games.

Historically one of the most profitable teams in college football, USC is 2-8 against the spread this season and has failed to cover the number in five straight games.

Seven consecutive Pac-10 titles, seven straight BCS bowl games and four Rose Bowl appearances in a row. All of these streaks are broken and this will be the first time since 2001 USC won?t be playing in a bowl game on or after the New Year.

It has been a long time since the Trojans were out of the Pac-10 race, or more aptly, in command of it. So do they have anything left to play for?

?Of course they have lost a little motivation,? ?For any other program a 7-3 record with a true freshman at quarterback would be considered a success. But this is USC and for them each year it?s national title or bust.?

The Trojans meet their Pac-10 nemesis when UCLA invades the Coliseum Saturday. It may not be the marquee matchup the Victory Bell normally commands but at the very least, Hollywood bragging rights will be on the line.

Professional handicapper Alex Smart said there will be no shortage of motivation for USC in the rivalry game.

?There is no way [Pete Carroll] will allow his coaches and players to bow out of this season without making a clear statement that this is still a program to be feared,? Smart said. ?The Trojans will be ready to go Saturday.?

The spread for the game opened at 12.5 in favor of the Trojans and has elevated to 13. Despite being favored in losses to Oregon and Stanford and barely escaping Tempe with a win, bettors remain sided with the familiar and storied program.

?Guys are still hammering USC because they are USC with the cool band song and cheerleaders, and books are well aware of this,? stated Parsons. ?We have a 60/30 split on bets (in favor of USC) and oddsmakers have yet to make any significant movement on that line.?

USC has won nine of the last 10 meetings in this series and gone 5-4-1 ATS.

?I believe public and sharp money perceptions mirror my own thoughts and a closing number of 14 or higher favoring USC would not come as a surprise,? Smart said. ?So if you?re backing the Trojans it?s better to get down early than late.?

Over the last 10 seasons, the Trojans are 17-4 overall and 14-7 ATS in games after Thanksgiving.

USC is projected to play in the Holiday Bowl and is 6-2 straight up and 6-2 ATS in the team?s last eight bowl appearances.

?I expect USC to have an exceptional bowl showing,? Smart said. ?You have to remember there are a good number of NFL-caliber players in this lineup who will be looking to make a statement.?



?USC tends to take out all their frustrations on non-Pac-10 teams, so don't expect the same team that you saw in the Oregon or Stanford game come bowl season,? he said.

Even though it won?t be the Rose Bowl or another BCS game, Pete Carroll will aim to finish strong.

?Right now it's all about finishing,? Carroll told reporters. ?We have three opportunities to finish this season, and we'll make a difference in how we feel about this regardless of what's happened before. So we're going to try to make some noise here and have some fun doing it.?

 

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'BORDER WAR': Mizzou adds to Kansas' woes

'BORDER WAR': Mizzou adds to Kansas' woes

'BORDER WAR': Mizzou adds to Kansas' woes

Revenge-minded Tigers merit play as 3-point favorites



In terms of off-the-field problems, a big one is surrounding rotund Kansas coach Mark Mangino.

The Jayhawks' season has turned into a virtual train wreck, not just in regards to on-the-field performance but also in the arena of outside distractions.

If six straight losses after a 5-0 start is not enough, Kansas (5-6) has spent the past couple of weeks in a whirlwind of controversy amid allegations by some former players that Mangino crossed the line with verbal assaults that included references to race and other socioeconomic factors.

Kansas and Missouri, Big 12 Conference rivals, both enter today's "Border War" showdown in Kansas City, Mo., having fallen shy of their goals for the regular season. A victory in the rivalry, however, will take some of the sting out of the disappointment for one of the teams.

The Tigers (7-4) have more to be thankful for this holiday season because they are guaranteed a winning record.

Missouri, which had a Big 12-high six players selected in this year's NFL Draft, will not post a third straight 10-win season. But it has made positive strides with new quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

With Mangino barely hanging onto his job and Missouri seeking revenge after losing outright last season as a 151/2-point favorite, the Tigers are a solid choice at the betting window.

If you need a little more support for the selection, Kansas has dropped eight straight against the spread. Go with Missouri as a 3-point favorite.

Six more plays for today (home team in CAPS):

? SOUTH CAROLINA (+31/2) over Clemson -- At first glance, the Tigers, Atlantic Coast Conference Atlantic Division champions, might jump out as the choice to some handicappers, but they have a bigger matchup on deck against Georgia Tech in the conference championship game.

The Gamecocks come from the stronger Southeastern Conference and should bring the kitchen sink against their rival.

? North Carolina (-51/2) over NORTH CAROLINA STATE -- The injury-plagued Wolfpack has allowed at least 30 points to every Division I opponent on their schedule, with the exception of South Carolina. Also, North Carolina State has posted just two victories over Division I foes (Pittsburgh and Maryland) this season.

? Tennessee (-3) over KENTUCKY -- The Wildcats' most recent victory over Tennessee occurred in 1984. Vols quarterback Jonathan Crompton has shown steady improvement. Kentucky has difficulty stopping the run, meaning Vols tailback Montario Hardesty could chew up big chunks of yardage.

? OKLAHOMA (-71/2) over Oklahoma State -- The Sooners are a much stronger team at home this season. The Cowboys have covered just one of the past five series meetings and are 11-23-11 against the spread in their past 35 games as road underdogs.

? IDAHO (-21/2) over Utah State -- This is a good spot to take the Vandals, who started fast and cooled down once the competition grew stiffer. Idaho quarterback Nathan Enderle is expected to return from injury. The Vandals should be well rested off a bye, while Utah State is playing for the 11th straight week.

? Ucla-SOUTHERN CAL (Under 471/2) -- Neither team ranks in the nation's top 48 in total offense, and the Trojans have averaged 18.3 points in their past three games against Oregon, Arizona State and Stanford.

UCLA's 23 points last week against Arizona State was somewhat misleading as the Bruins scored two defensive touchdowns.

Last week: 7-0 against the spread

Season: 34-35-1

 

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Stakes still high for Utes, Cougars

Stakes still high for Utes, Cougars

Stakes still high for Utes, Cougars

But conference title not on line for rivals

By DOUG ALDEN
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

PROVO, Utah -- For the first time in four years, Utah and Brigham Young don't have the conference title on the line when they settle their heated rivalry.

The No. 22 Utes and 18th-ranked Cougars are stuck in a tie for second in the Mountain West Conference, and any realistic Bowl Championship Series hopes for both vanished long ago.

But make no mistake, this still is big in the Beehive State.

"It's very intense. I haven't been a part of anything like it ever before," Utah defensive back Joe Dale said. "It's big on campus, and it's huge to this team, and it's huge to this state."

The Cougars and Utes have identical records at 9-2 and 6-1 in the Mountain West. The only conference loss for both was to No. 4 Texas Christian.

So this year's meeting in Provo is more about bowl position, staying in the Top 25 and, most importantly, winning the game that seems to matter most to the fans.

BYU has gone as far as wrapping campus statues and signs in plastic to prevent any vandalism from overzealous fans.

"It keeps getting bigger and bigger," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, who played linebacker at BYU. "When both teams are doing well, it adds a different dimension to the game. It's healthy and positive for the rivalry."

Utah fans were so excited to end a two-game losing streak in the rivalry last year they rushed the field with 29 seconds still remaining. They were herded back to the stands to give Utah quarterback Brian Johnson one last snap, when he took a knee and ran out the clock to seal the Utes' 48-24 victory and end BYU's two-year reign on top of the Mountain West.

The Utes had a BCS berth on the line, but Utah fans probably would have celebrated just as much to win the rivalry.

"You have two teams that are having great success," BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall said. "Two teams that are 35-whatever miles apart and a state championship on the line with two teams that have played very good football over the last four years, so I think it'll be a great game."

It usually is. Last year's blowout was an anomaly -- 10 of the past 12 meetings have been decided by a touchdown or less.

"It's basically the same no matter what year it is," BYU defensive end Jan Jorgensen said. "In the end this is still a huge rivalry game, and it's a game that both teams put a lot of importance in."

UTAH VS. BRIGHAM YOUNG

WHEN: 2 p.m. today

WHERE: LaVell Edwards Stadium, Provo, Utah

TV/RADIO: CBSC (333), The Mtn. (334), KDOX-AM (1280)

LINE: BYU -71/2; total 521/2

 

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Sarcastic Tide fans love Tebow

Sarcastic Tide fans love Tebow

Sarcastic Tide fans love Tebow
As Florida quarterback Tim Tebow prepares to play his final home game at The Swamp today against rival Florida State, we thought it would be fitting to share some little-known "facts" about the much-heralded former Heisman Trophy winner.

The following information was included in a startling list compiled, surprisingly, by Tidefans.com under the heading "Tim Tebow is so awesome":

People with amnesia still remember Tim Tebow.

Tim Tebow hits blackjack with just one card.

The only reason you're still conscious is because Tim Tebow hasn't stiff-armed you in the face.

When Google can't find something, it asks Tim Tebow for help.

Tim Tebow gets called for roughing the tackler.

What color is Tim Tebow's blood? Trick question. Tim Tebow does not bleed.

 

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Primetime NCAAF games

Primetime NCAAF games

Primetime NCAAF games

Dame provide little for the regular college football fan to be excited about.

Thankfully there is this thing called sports gambling, which pretty much makes every game the Super Bowl as long as you have money on it.

Here are quick looks at both of these games for the bettor:

Georgia (6-5, 3-8 ATS) at Georgia Tech (10-1, 7-3 ATS)

The spread

The spread for the game sits between -7.5 to -8 in favor of Georgia Tech. There was odd movement in the middle of the week at the Las Vegas Hilton with the line jumping as high as -9.5. But since then it has settled back down to -8.

Why Georgia will cover

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets have already clinched a spot in the ACC title game and the result of this game has little impact on whether or not they play in a BCS bowl game.

At 6-5 the Bulldogs have had a disappointing season but are treating this rivalry as a game that could turn their year into a positive.

Historically the Bulldogs have dominated this series, winning seven of the last eight meetings. That one loss came last year in a 45-42 heartbreaker in Athens, with both teams coming into the game ranked.

Also in Tech's four wins against teams with winning records, they have only won by more than a touchdown once (against North Carolina).

Why Georgia Tech will cover

The Yellow Jackets have an excellent record against the spread (ATS) at 7-3. They are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games.

Junior running back Jonathan Dwyer leads a rushing attack that is averaging 314.1 yards per game. That is an area that the Bulldogs had trouble with last year against the Yellow Jackets. Tech only completed one pass for 19 yards, but they rushed for 409 yards and 5 TDs.

The Bulldogs have had a tough time scoring points in the fourth quarter. In their last three defeats against Tennessee, Florida, and Kentucky, the Bulldogs could not put up a point in the final quarter. To make matters worse on offense, top target A.J. Green was listed as doubtful as of Friday morning and even if he plays, he won't be 100 percent with a shoulder injury.

The total

The total for the game opened at 60 and has since moved down to 58 at most sports books. Both teams are a combined 9-10-1 on the over under this season.

Why the game will go over

Last year's game saw 87 points scored and the total was listed at 49.5. Georgia Tech is averaging 36 points per game while Georgia is averaging 27.5.

Why the game will go under

Georgia has had the total set at 55 or more three times this year. Two of those games went over and the other was a push. The under is 1-3-1 on Tech totals over the past five games.

Notre Dame (6-5, 3-8 ATS) at Stanford (7-4, 7-4 ATS)

The spread

The line opened at -8 in favor of Stanford and has since seen a 2-point movement all the way up to -10. Last year's line was -5.5 in favor of Notre Dame and the Irish covered with a 28-21 victory.

Why Notre Dame will cover

Jimmy Clausen was punched by a fan late Saturday night following Notre Dame?s loss to Connecticut. Charlie Weis could be playing in his final regular season game. Frustrations could be taken out on the Cardinal and the Fighting Irish have the speed and talent to either pull off an upset or keep this game close.

Clausen has announced he?ll be declaring for the 2010 NFL draft and we could see him put in one last good performance for scouts. Statistically Clausen has had an outstanding year throwing for 3,382 yards, 23 TDs and only 4 INTs. Stanford has been vulnerable to the pass giving up 244 yards per game, which ranks 98th in the country.

Notre Dame has also been an underdog only twice this year (against USC and Pitt). They lost both games but covered the spread. None of Notre Dame?s five straight up losses were by more than a touchdown. Also it?s scientifically proven that Leprechauns would beat a tree in a fight on most days of the week

Why Stanford will cover

With three close losses and all the off-field distractions, the Irish may not have any more left in them to take on a surprising Stanford team.

QB Andrew Luck has put in an outstanding freshman year leading the team to wins over Oregon and USC. The 55-21 victory on the road versus USC was his most impressive.

Notre Dame ranks 78th in rush defense giving up 160.3 yards per game and the game could get out of reach if Stanford running back Toby Gerhart has a good start. The senior has rushed for 1,517 yards and 23 TDs this season. Ten of those TDs have come in the last three games against Cal, USC and Oregon.

The total

The over/under for the game sits between 62.5 and 63.5 at most sports books.

Why the game will go over

All signs point to offense in this game, with Notre Dame's defense ranked 80th in yards given up and Stanford ranked 81st. Stanford hit the over five times in its last six games.

Why the game will go under

Four of the last five Notre Dame games have gone under the total, with last week's game against UConn going over only because of a 23-point double overtime.

 

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Where the action is: Saturday's college football line moves

Where the action is: Saturday's college football line moves

Where the action is: Saturday's college football line moves

Saturday?s biggest college football line moves.

Syracuse Orange at Connecticut Huskies

Bettors don?t just like the Huskies, they love them. The team opened as an 11-poitn favorite, but soon saw that number rocket as high as 14 points. The Orange proved to be frisky last week with a 31-13 win over Rutgers, but Connecticut has the momentum of a huge win over Notre Dame and will be playing in front of a sell out crowd.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Duke Blue Devils

Duke took mighty Georgia Tech to overtime last week, but bettors still have put enough faith in Wake Forest that the line has jumped nearly a field goal. The Blue Devils opened at +2.5, but saw that number skip up to +5 as of Friday night. The hosts also haven?t won outright in this series since 1999, but are 4-1 ATS in the team?s past five meetings.

New Mexico Lobos at TCU Horned Frogs

The undefeated Horned Frogs have been making statements with huge victories each of the past few weeks ? and bettors expect more of the same this week. TCU opened as 41-point favorites, but saw that number bulge to -44.5 a few days later. The Horned Frogs are 4-0 ATS in the team?s past four meetings.

Florida State Seminoles at Florida Gators

The Seminoles have the best offense in league history since the ACC expanded to its current two-league format. Unfortunately, Florida State also has the worst defense in the history of the two-division alignment, motivating bettors to push the Gators, who opened as three-touchdown favorites, to -25 as of Friday night. Florida is 4-1 ATS in the team?s past five meetings.

Miami Hurricanes at South Florida Bulls

Bettors couldn?t wait to ride the Hurricanes in the battle to see who the second-best team is in the Sunshine State. South Florida opened at +1, but that number soared up to +7 as of Friday night. And that?s because of the team?s recent struggles. It is 2-3 SU in its past five overall and just 1-4 ATS over that stretch.

Navy Midshipmen at Hawaii Warriors

The Midshipmen are one of the most consistent teams in the nation, and bettors are hoping that their solid play this year ? 7-4 ATS ? carries over to a road game in the 50th state. Navy opened at -6.5, but that number rose to -10 with many books, as bettors viewed Hawaii?s three straight wins over San Jose State, New Mexico State and Utah State as products of a weak schedule.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Stanford Cardinal

Far be it from smart bettors to ignore the turmoil in South Bend. Stanford opened as a 7-poitn favorite, with the number quickly rising to 10 points, as many believe Cardinal stud running back will shred the Notre Dame defense. Add in the lame-duck status of Irish coach Charlie Weiss, and a blowout seems more likely than an upset.

Virginia Tech Hokies at Virginia Cavaliers

A boatload of trick plays haven?t stopped bettors from backing the Hokies. Virginia Tech opened at -13, with the number rising to -16 as the week progressed. The Hokies are 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings and have covered double-digit spreads each of the past four weeks. Virginia has lost five straight overall and is just 2-3 ATS over that span.

 

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College football Top 25 cheat sheet: Week 13

College football Top 25 cheat sheet: Week 13

College football Top 25 cheat sheet: Week 13



No. 24 North Carolina (8-3) at North Carolina State (4-7): +5.5, 50.5

Why North Carolina will cover

The Tar Heels have covered the spread in their last four games and head coach Butch Davis has his best team in three years with UNC at 8-3. Their defense has been outstanding, forcing 28 turnovers. The offense doesn't have impressive stats but it has put up 30 plus point in their last two games.

Why will NC State cover

Butch Davis has had two shots at NC State and his Tar Heels lost in both games. Last year being a 41-10 blowout in Chapel Hill. At times, Russell Wilson shows flashes of brilliance. He has thrown for 2,768 yards and 27 TDs this season. There is added motivation for an upset with the tragic news of OC Dana Bible being diagnosed with leukemia

NC State's has been one of the best bets with the over this season at 9-2 over/under. However, that offense will be facing a UNC defense that ranks fifth in the NCAA giving up just 261.6 yards per game. UNC is 1-4 on totals when they are favorites.

No. 16 Clemson (8-3) at South Carolina (6-5): +3, 44

Why Clemson will cover

Clemson goes into this game with a six-game winning streak, while South Carolina is on a four-game losing streak. C.J. Spiller will look to have a big game against his in-state rivals and with an offense that is averaging 33 points a game - the second highest in the conference. The Tigers have also made their backers happy this season going 8-3 ATS.

Why South Carolina will cover

Honestly its tough to find a reason why the Gamecocks will cover but homefield advantage in a rivalry game is a plus. Future NFLer Eric Norton will be playing in his last game and he has the backing of secondary that ranks seventh in passing defense, which could be a key factor in keeping this game close.

South Carolina is 1-4 over/under in its last five while the last three Clemson games have gone over. Both teams rank within the Top 20 in defense.

No. 25 Ole Miss (8-2) at Mississippi State (4-7): +7.5, 49

Why Ole Miss will cover

A two-possession victory is a strong possibility as Ole Miss is simply the better team in every category and is coming off a three-game winning streak and the high of a victory over LSU. Last year, the Rebels dominated the Egg Bowl destroying the Bulldogs 45-0. Quarterback Jevan Snead had an outstanding game last year throwing four TDs.

Why Mississippi State will cover

The Rebels defense will have its focus on Bulldogs running back Anthony Dixon, who has 1,258 rushing yards and 11 TDs this year. The senior rushed for 176 yards and two TDs versus Arkansas last week and will look to close out his career strong. The home team has also won the game straight up in the last five meetings.

Ole Miss? SEC games have gone under nine times in the last 12, but its last three conference games have gone over. Six of the last seven Egg Bowl games have gone under the total.

No. 12 Oklahoma State (9-2) at Oklahoma (6-5): -8, 49

Why Oklahoma State will cover

The Cowboys have not won a game in this series since 2002, but at 9-2 this is one their best team in years. The line could be a bit inflated with the 6-5 Sooners having one of its worst seasons in recent memory. Oklahoma State?s rush defense has been solid this year, giving up only 82.6 yards a game.

Why Oklahoma will cover

Oklahoma State has been an underdog only once this season and it loss 41-14 to Texas as a 9-point pup. The Sooners have the talent to blowout this game and they have yet to lose in Norman this season, where they have beat teams by an average of 40.4 points per game

The Sooners are 2-9 over/under this season despite the fact that they are scoring 31.5 points per game. The total in this rivalry has gone over five times in the last seven games.

New Mexico (1-10) at No. 4 TCU (11-0): -45, 55.5

Why New Mexico will cover

With the spread at 45, this is the highest number that both teams will be dealing with this season and there is too many variables to consider if TCU is to cover. One has to figure out at what point coach Gary Patterson will pull his starters. Combine that with the fact that New Mexico is coming off an upset win over Colorado State

Why TCU will cover

TCU has covered the spread in six straight games and only one of those games (vs BYU) was the spread below 20 points. Also, New Mexico is simply one of the worst teams, ranking 111th in points scored and 108th in points allowed. That?s tough going up against a program that is in the Top 5 in offense and defense and is looking to make a statement to poll voters

The last three TCU games have gone over the total, but even if the Horned Frogs score 50, one has to factor whether or not the Lobos can get into the endzone against a team that is only giving up 12.6 points per game

No. 14 Virginia Tech (8-3) at Virginia (3-8): +16, 41.5

Why Virginia Tech will cover

The Hokies have covered the spread in their last three games, where they were double-digits favorites in all of those games. Virginia is one of the worst teams against the run which could lead to a big day from Virgnia Tech's freshman running back Ryan Williams. Last week against North Carolina State, Williams had four TDs on 120 yards. He has 1,355 yards and 14 TDs on the ground for the season.

Why Virginia will cover

Last year's contest was tight with Tech only winning by three points. The Cavaliers are at the bottom of the Coastal division but they kept their two most recent games against Clemson and Boston College close, the Atlantic Division's top two teams.

The last five Virginia Tech games have gone under the total, but their offense has been putting up points in their last two with 36 against Maryland and 38 versus NC State.

Florida State (6-5) at No. 1 Florida (11-0): -24, 56

Why Florida State will cover

The Gators are only 2-4 ATS in their last six games and with the SEC title game and back-to-back national titles on the horizon, Urban Meyer will look to protect the health of his starters. So even if an early blowout occurs, the Seminoles will have ample opportunity for a backdoor cover.

Why Florida will cover

The Florida offense has produced 45 points in both the 2007 and 2008 editions of this series, winning both those games by an average of 31.5 points. FSU will also have a tough time putting up points on the boards as the Gators have given up just 9.8 points per game this year.

The Gators have been a good under team this year going 3-7 over/under. Florida State is in the opposite direction hitting the over eight times this year.

 

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Syracuse (4-7) at Connecticut (5-5)

Syracuse (4-7) at Connecticut (5-5)

Syracuse (4-7) at Connecticut (5-5)


DATE & TIME: Saturday, November 28th, 12:00 p.m. (et)

FACTS & STATS: Site: Rentschler Field (40,000) -- East Hartford, Connecticut. Television:BEN. Home Record: Syracuse 4-4, UConn 2-2. Away Record: Syracuse 0-3, UConn 3-3. Neutral Record: Syracuse 0-0, UConn 0-0. Conference Record: Syracuse 1-5, UConn 1-4. Series Record: Connecticut leads, 3-2.

GAME NOTES: The Connecticut Huskies will try to become bowl eligible this weekend, as they host the Syracuse Orange in Big East play at Rentschler Field.

The Huskies are coming off an emotional win, as the upended Notre Dame, 33-30, in a wild double-overtime affair last Saturday. The triumph put a stop to three-game slide and pushed the team to a level 5-5 overall. With a win this weekend, the Huskies would be eligible for the postseason. The team could have already be in place for a bowl appearance if not for several narrow losses, as UConn has suffered all five of its defeats by four points or fewer.

As for the Orange, it is coming off a shocking result, knocking off then 25th- ranked Rutgers 31-13 this past weekend. It was the first win in six league games for Syracuse, which snapped a three-game slide and improved to 4-7 overall. The Orange, though, have had no success on the road this season, losing all three of its games on foreign soil.

With respect to the all-time series, UConn took a 3-2 lead over Syracuse with a 39-14 victory at the Carrier Dome last season.

The Orange, not much of an offensive team, erupted for 424 total yards and 31 points against a stingy Rutgers defense last weekend. It was quite an effort from a team that had scored a total of just 26 points over its three prior games and is averaging only 316.0 total ypg for the season. What was even more impressive was Syracuse didn't commit a turnover after accounting for 25 giveaways through the first 10 games. The Orange rushed for 213 yards against Rutgers, with Delone Carter toting 22 times for 67 yards and a score. Carter has been a bright spot for this offense and is close to topping 1,000 yards with 919 and 10 touchdowns on the campaign. Greg Paulus also had a good game last weekend, converting 13-of-16 pass attempts for 142 yards and a touchdown. The former Duke basketball standout didn't throw a pick and that was a positive considering he has 14 interceptions on the season. He has still completed an efficient 66.8 percent of his tosses with 11 scores, so Paulus has had some success.

Defensively, Syracuse turned in a tremendous performance last weekend, as it held Rutgers to a measly 130 total yards, including just 26 rushing. The Orange has actually done a decent job on defense this season, especially against the run, allowing only 92.5 ypg on the ground. Syracuse also forced a pair of turnovers last game, while tying a school-record with nine sacks. The Orange has thrived on bringing pressure and has now totaled 35 sacks for the season. Doug Hogue leads the team with 16.5 TFLs and 9.5 sacks and he was outstanding against Rutgers, recording 6.5 TFLs, 3.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

Andre Dixon's four-yard touchdown run in the second overtime capped off a terrific effort by UConn's ground attack and lifted the Huskies over Notre Dame. The Huskies amassed 231 rushing yards and that is no big surprise, as they have managed 174.2 ypg and 23 touchdowns on the ground this season. Jordan Todman, who returned a kickoff 96 yards for a score, led the way with 130 yards and a touchdown, while Dixon finished with 114 yards. The duo have played off each other to perfection this season and have combined for 1,800 yards and 21 touchdowns. The success on the ground has helped compensate for some inconsistent play at quarterback. Zach Frazer, in five games, has completed just 50.7 percent of his tosses with five scores against eight picks. Those are some pretty poor numbers, but he did do a nice job managing the team last weekend, throwing for 141 yards and a touchdown.

UConn typically boasts one of the better defenses in the Big East, but that hasn't been the case this year. The Huskies have allowed at least 28 points in four straight games and are giving up 374.7 total ypg on the season. Last weekend, Notre Dame carved up the Huskies defense for 452 total yards, including 329 through the air. The pass defense has been a real weakness for UConn, which is allowing 241.8 ypg through the air. The unit did force two turnovers and recorded the same amount of sacks last weekend to help compensate for the yards surrendered, so that was a positive. Lindsey Witten had a sack in the win and he continues to be an elite pass rusher, with 12 TFLs and 11.5 sacks to his credit for the season.

The Huskies are the better team, simply put, and behind their stout rushing attack, they should be able to get past a Syracuse team that reached its potential last weekend.

Predicted Outcome: Connecticut 37, Syracuse 17

 

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Connecticut Huskies (2-4) (1-2 H) vs Syracuse Orangemen (1-3) (0-0 A)

Game Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT Saturday, November 28

Stadium: Memorial Stadium Surface: Grass




RECORD ANALYSIS
STRAIGHT-UP VS. SPREAD OVER/UNDER
Syracuse Orangemen HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL

Year-to-Date 4 - 4 0 - 3 4 - 7 4 - 3 2 - 1 6 - 4 2 - 5 0 - 2 2 - 7
Last 5 games 2 - 1 0 - 2 2 - 3 2 - 1 1 - 1 3 - 2 0 - 3 0 - 2 0 - 5
YTD vs. Conf. 1 - 3 0 - 2 1 - 5 1 - 3 1 - 1 2 - 4 1 - 3 0 - 2 1 - 5
STRAIGHT-UP VS. SPREAD OVER/UNDER
Connecticut Huskies HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL
Year-to-Date 2 - 2 3 - 3 5 - 5 1 - 1 6 - 0 7 - 1 2 - 1 4 - 1 6 - 2
Last 5 games 1 - 1 1 - 2 2 - 3 0 - 1 3 - 0 3 - 1 2 - 0 3 - 0 5 - 0
YTD vs. Conf. 1 - 1 0 - 3 1 - 4 0 - 1 3 - 0 3 - 1 2 - 0 2 - 1 4 - 1
AWAY VS. SPREAD HOME VS. SPREAD
Year-to-Date FAV DOG GRASS TURF FAV DOG GRASS TURF
Syracuse Orangemen 0 - 0 2 - 1 2 - 0 0 - 1 1 - 0 3 - 3 0 - 0 4 - 3
Connecticut Huskies 1 - 0 5 - 0 3 - 0 3 - 0 0 - 1 1 - 0 1 - 1 0 - 0



TEAM LOGS/SCHEDULE:
( * = overtime)

Syracuse Orangemen
LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY OPP SCORE SU OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
09/05/09 Sat MN 20 - 23 L +6 +7 W 4 48.0 48.5 U -5.5 T
09/12/09 Sat @PAST 7 - 28 L +28.5 +29 W 8 NL NL G
09/19/09 Sat NW 37 - 34 W +4.5 +2.5 W 5.5 44.0 46.0 O +-25.0 T
09/26/09 Sat ME 41 - 24 W -0 -0 W 17 NL NL T
10/03/09 Sat SFLA 20 - 34 L +9 +7.5 L -6.5 47.0 47.5 O +- 6.5 T
10/10/09 Sat WV 13 - 34 L +10.5 +10 L -11 52.0 55.0 U -8.0 T
10/24/09 Sat AKR 28 - 14 W -9.5 -11 W 3 47.5 47.5 U -5.5 T
10/31/09 Sat CIN 7 - 28 L +16 +15.5 L -5.5 51.0 52.5 U -17.5 T
11/07/09 Sat @PITT 10 - 37 L +21 +21.5 L -5.5 49.0 50.0 U -3.0 G
11/14/09 Sat @LOU 9 - 10 L +10.5 +7.5 W 6.5 45.0 47.5 U -28.5 G
11/21/09 Sat RUT 31 - 13 W +10 +10 W 28 41.0 45.0 U -1.0 T


Connecticut Huskies
LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY OPP SCORE SU OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
09/05/09 Sat @OH 23 - 16 W -6 -3.5 W 3.5 NL NL G
09/12/09 Sat NC 10 - 12 L +5 +6 W 4 42.0 41.0 U -19.0 G
09/19/09 Sat @BAY 30 - 22 W +7 +10 W 18 45.5 45.5 O +- 6.5 G
09/26/09 Sat RI 52 - 10 W -0 -0 W 42 NL NL G
10/10/09 Sat @PITT 21 - 24 L +10 +6.5 W 3.5 45.0 47.5 U -2.5 G
10/17/09 Sat LOU 38 - 25 W -11 -13 L 0 47.0 47.0 O +-16.0 G
10/24/09 Sat @WV 24 - 28 L +7 +7.5 W 3.5 46.0 46.5 O +- 5.5 T
10/31/09 Sat RUT 24 - 28 L -7 -7 L -11 47.0 44.5 O +- 7.5 G
11/07/09 Sat @CIN 45 - 47 L +12 +16.5 W 14.5 49.0 51.5 O +-40.5 T
11/21/09 Sat @ND 33 - 30 W +7.5 +6 W 9 59.0 58.5 O +- 4.5 G



PREVIOUS MEETINGS:

LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY VIS SC HOM SC OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
10/07/05 Fri SYR 7 CT 26 -4.5 -5.5 CT +13.5 45.5 44.0 U -11 G
11/18/06 Sat CT 14 SYR 20 -3.0 -1.0 SYR +5 39.0 40.5 U -6.5 T
11/17/07 Sat SYR 7 CT 30 -21.0 -19.0 CT +4 NL NL O +-37 G
11/15/08 Sat CT 39 SYR 14 +10.5 +9 SYR --16 50.0 47.5 O +-5.5 T




STATISTICAL AVERAGES:


AWAY/HOME RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
SYR (off) 8.7 17 36 122 3.4 27 16 0.6 129 4.8 251 2.0 0.3
CT (def) 18.8 14 37 78 2.1 28 19 0.7 221 7.9 299 1.5 0.8
RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
SYR (def) 25.0 19 37 120 3.2 25 15 0.6 197 7.9 317 0.7 1.0
CT (off) 31.0 20 37 147 4.0 33 19 0.6 265 8.0 412 1.3 1.3
ALL GAMES RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
SYR (off) 20.3 18 35 126 3.6 28 18 0.6 190 6.8 316 1.4 0.9
CT (def) 24.2 17 35 133 3.8 31 20 0.6 242 7.8 375 1.1 0.9
RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
SYR (def) 25.4 17 33 93 2.8 29 19 0.7 241 8.3 334 0.7 1.1
CT (off) 30.0 20 41 174 4.2 30 17 0.6 231 7.7 405 1.2 0.8



SCORING AVERAGES:

Syracuse Orangemen (away) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 1.0 0.0 1 1.0 6.7 0.0 7.7
POINTS ALLOWED 3.3 5.7 9 8.0 8.0 0.0 16



Connecticut Huskies (home) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 6.0 6.8 12.8 9.5 8.8 0.0 18.3
POINTS ALLOWED 3.5 6.8 10.3 0.0 8.5 0.0 8.5



Syracuse Orangemen (all) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 5.5 5.2 10.7 3.0 6.5 0.0 9.5
POINTS ALLOWED 5.4 8.4 13.8 6.2 5.2 0.3 11.7



Connecticut Huskies (all) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 4.8 7.4 12.2 8.9 7.6 0.3 16.8
POINTS ALLOWED 4.8 6.8 11.6 3.4 8.2 0.0 11.6



VALUE INDEX COMPARISON TO LAS VEGAS LINE:

LV POINTSPREAD VALUE INDEX VALUE INDEX
OPEN CURRENT RATING LINE EDGE
Syracuse Orangemen 42 8.5
Connecticut Huskies 44.5 -6.5
LV OVER/UNDER VALUE INDEX VALUE INDEX
OPEN CURRENT RATING EDGE
OVER/UNDER 49.5 UNKNOWN

 

[Lumi]

Preview:
Syracuse at Connecticut
When: 12:00 PM ET, Saturday, November 28, 2009
Where: Rentschler, East Hartford, Connecticut

Quick HitsOverall Team Offense

The Connecticut Huskies are ranked 43 on offense, averaging 405.2 yards per game. The Huskies are averaging 174.2 yards rushing and 231.0 yards passing so far this season.

The Syracuse Orange are ranked 103 on offense, averaging 316.0 yards per game. The Orange are averaging 126.4 yards rushing and 189.6 yards passing so far this season.


Home and Away

The Connecticut Huskies are 2-2 at home this season, 1-4 against conference opponents and 4-1 against non-conference opponents.

At home the Huskies are averaging 31.0 scoring, and holding teams to 18.8 points scored on defense.

The Syracuse Orange are 0-3 while on the road this season, 1-5 against conference opponents and 3-2 against non-conference opponents.

On the road, the Orange are averaging 8.7 scoring, and holding teams to 25.0 points scored on defense.

 

[Lumi]

Trends - Syracuse at Connecticut

Trends - Syracuse at Connecticut

Trends - Syracuse at Connecticut

ATS Trends

Syracuse

Orange are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games in November.
Orange are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
Orange are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog.
Orange are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games after allowing less than 20 points in their previous game.
Orange are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a S.U. win.


Connecticut

Huskies are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a S.U. win.
Huskies are 4-0 ATS vs. a team with a losing record.
Huskies are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
Huskies are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating less than 170 yards passing in their previous game.
Huskies are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
Huskies are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
Huskies are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a ATS win.
Huskies are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games on grass.
Huskies are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a home favorite of 10.5 or greater.
Huskies are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a favorite of 10.5 or greater.
Huskies are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 conference games.
Huskies are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a favorite.
Huskies are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
Huskies are 20-8 ATS in their last 28 home games.
Huskies are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game.
Huskies are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as a home favorite.


OU Trends

Syracuse

Under is 5-0-1 in Orange last 6 games as an underdog of 10.5 or greater.
Under is 6-0 in Orange last 6 games overall.
Under is 4-0-1 in Orange last 5 road games.
Under is 4-0-1 in Orange last 5 games in November.
Under is 3-0-1 in Orange last 4 games as a road underdog of 10.5 or greater.
Under is 4-0-1 in Orange last 5 games as a road underdog.
Under is 5-0 in Orange last 5 games as an underdog.
Under is 5-0 in Orange last 5 conference games.
Over is 9-1 in Orange last 10 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
Under is 19-6-1 in Orange last 26 games on grass.
Over is 5-2 in Orange last 7 games after allowing less than 275 total yards in their previous game.
Over is 11-5 in Orange last 16 games following a S.U. win.


Connecticut

Over is 5-0 in Huskies last 5 games overall.
Over is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 games as a home favorite.
Over is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 games as a home favorite of 10.5 or greater.
Over is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 games following a ATS win.
Over is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 games as a favorite of 10.5 or greater.
Over is 4-0 in Huskies last 4 conference games.
Over is 5-1 in Huskies last 6 games in November.
Over is 4-1 in Huskies last 5 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
Over is 4-1 in Huskies last 5 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game.
Over is 8-2 in Huskies last 10 home games.
Over is 4-1 in Huskies last 5 games on grass.
Over is 4-1 in Huskies last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
Over is 4-1 in Huskies last 5 games as a favorite.
Under is 7-2 in Huskies last 9 vs. a team with a losing record.


Head to Head

Favorite is 5-0 ATS in their last 5 meetings.
Home team is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings.

 

[Lumi]

Wake Forest (4-7) at Duke (5-6)

Wake Forest (4-7) at Duke (5-6)

Wake Forest (4-7) at Duke (5-6)


DATE & TIME: November 28th, 12:00 p.m. (et)

FACTS & STATS: Site: Wallace Wade Stadium (33,941) -- Durham, North Carolina. Television: Raycom. Home Record: Wake Forest 4-3, Duke 2-3. Away Record: Wake Forest 0-4, Duke 3-3. Neutral Record: Wake Forest 0-0, Duke 0-0. Conference Record: Wake Forest 2-5, Duke 3-4. Series Record: Duke leads, 53-34-2.

GAME NOTES: The Duke Blue Devils need a win in this weekend's regular-season finale to become bowl eligible, and ACC foe Wake Forest will be the opponent.

Wake Forest opened this season with wins in four of its first six games and figured to contend for the ACC title as usual. Since that point, however, things have gone down hill in a hurry, as the Demon Deacons have suffered five consecutive defeats. Last weekend's 41-28 loss to Florida State in front of a deflated home crowd assured Wake Forest that this weekend's game against Duke would be the last this season.

Speaking of the Blue Devils, they have a chance to extend their campaign, as a win over Wake would make them eligible for a bowl. Unfortunately, the team has suffered three straight defeats, all by double figures, so confidence may be low for the Blue Devils. Last weekend, they fell to Miami on the road by a 34-16 final, as a lack of offensive production was again the main reason for the setback.

Duke owns a 53-34-2 advantage in the all-time series with Wake Forest, but the Demon Deacons have won the last nine meetings.

Riley Skinner has had a terrific career as the quarterback of Wake Forest, and his numbers this season are solid as usual. Sure, he would like to have fewer than 12 interceptions, and those mistakes have contributed to the seven losses. Still, it is hard to complain with 65.2 percent completions for 2,788 yards and 21 touchdowns with 12 interceptions. Devon Brown leads Wake with 53 catches, while Marshall Williams is tops with 52 catches for 748 yards and five touchdowns. As for Josh Adams, he paces Wake Forest with 499 rushing yards and four touchdowns. The Demon Deacons are averaging 24.6 ppg and 394.7 total ypg, solid numbers that won't scare the Blue Devils. It is ironic and impressive that Wake Forest finished with the exact same number of rushing and receiving yards against Florida State last time out (227). But despite the 454 total yards, the Demon Deacons couldn't keep pace with the Seminoles. Skinner threw for a touchdown, and Adams ran for two scores, but two interceptions hurt the cause.

Opponents have been able to score 25.5 ppg while gaining 376.5 total ypg against the Demon Deacons, who have allowed 34 touchdowns to opposing offenses. They have struggled against both the run and the pass, permitting 4.6 yards per rushing attempt and 12.4 yards per pass completion. Foes have been able to make good on 42 percent of their third down conversion attempts against Wake, and that stat could certainly stand to be better. Dominique Midgett leads the Deacs with 73 total tackles, 16 more than his closest teammate. Wake surrendered 437 total yards to Florida State, including 217 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. The Deacons had just one sack and one takeaway in the affair.

Duke is scoring 24.4 ppg this season to go along with 360.6 total ypg, modest numbers for a mediocre football team. The Blue Devils have been completely unsuccessful in their attempts to run the ball this season, ranking near the bottom of the national charts with 63.1 ypg and 2.2 yards per attempt. As a result, a great deal of pressure has fallen on the arm of quarterback Thaddeus Lewis. Through 11 games, Lewis has completed 61.3 percent of his passes for 2,943 yards and 17 touchdowns with seven interceptions, impressive considering the complete lack of ground support. Donovan Varner has been productive on the outside, as he has made 54 catches for 873 yards and six scores. Lewis became Duke's all-time leading passer against Miami last week, but the offense didn't play particularly well in that clash. Varner and Lewis did hook up for one score, but a total of 16 points won't win many ACC games.

There is definitely some room for improvement on the defensive side of the ball for Duke, which is permitting 26.8 ppg and 356.7 total ypg. Opposing offenses have scored 31 touchdowns against the Blue Devils, 18 of which have come on the ground. Vincent Rey leads Duke with 87 total tackles, including 6.5 TFLs. Leon Wright checks in with five interceptions, and Ayanga Okpokowuruk has five sacks to his credit. Miami racked up 496 total yards and 25 first downs against Duke, as the Blue Devils struggled mightily, especially against the pass. The Hurricanes were able to post 348 passing yards on 25 completions, and two of those connections went for scores.

With the help of the home crowd, Duke will knock off Wake Forest this weekend. The Blue Devils are getting better, as they are no longer the ACC's doormat.

Predicted Outcome: Duke 24, Wake Forest 20

 

[Lumi]

Duke Blue Devils (5-3) (2-2 H) vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-4) (0-2 A)

Game Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT Saturday, November 28

Stadium: Wallace Wade Stadium Surface: Grass




RECORD ANALYSIS
STRAIGHT-UP VS. SPREAD OVER/UNDER
Wake Forest Demon Deacons HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL

Year-to-Date 4 - 3 0 - 4 4 - 7 3 - 3 1 - 3 4 - 6 4 - 2 1 - 3 5 - 5
Last 5 games 0 - 2 0 - 3 0 - 5 1 - 1 1 - 2 2 - 3 2 - 0 0 - 3 2 - 3
YTD vs. Conf. 2 - 2 0 - 3 2 - 5 2 - 2 1 - 2 3 - 4 4 - 0 1 - 2 5 - 2
STRAIGHT-UP VS. SPREAD OVER/UNDER
Duke Blue Devils HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL HOME AWAY TOTAL
Year-to-Date 2 - 3 3 - 3 5 - 6 1 - 1 4 - 2 5 - 3 1 - 1 2 - 3 3 - 4
Last 5 games 1 - 1 1 - 2 2 - 3 0 - 1 2 - 1 2 - 2 0 - 1 0 - 3 0 - 4
YTD vs. Conf. 1 - 2 2 - 2 3 - 4 1 - 1 3 - 1 4 - 2 1 - 1 1 - 3 2 - 4
AWAY VS. SPREAD HOME VS. SPREAD
Year-to-Date FAV DOG GRASS TURF FAV DOG GRASS TURF
Wake Forest Demon Deacons 0 - 1 1 - 2 1 - 2 0 - 1 2 - 3 1 - 0 3 - 3 0 - 0
Duke Blue Devils 1 - 0 3 - 2 3 - 1 1 - 1 0 - 0 1 - 1 1 - 1 0 - 0



TEAM LOGS/SCHEDULE:
( * = overtime)

Wake Forest Demon Deacons
LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY OPP SCORE SU OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
09/05/09 Sat BAY 21 - 24 L -5 -3 L -6 51.0 51.0 U -6.0 G
09/12/09 Sat STAN 24 - 17 W -0 -3 W 4 45.0 45.5 U -4.5 G
09/19/09 Sat ELON 35 - 7 W -0 -0 W 28 NL NL G
09/26/09 Sat @BC 24 - 27 L +2 +1.5 L -1.5 41.0 41.0 O +-10.0 T
10/03/09 Sat NCST 30 - 24 W -2.5 -2.5 W 3.5 47.0 49.5 O +- 4.5 G
10/10/09 Sat MD 42 - 32 W -11.5 -13 L -3 49.0 52.5 O +-21.5 G
10/17/09 Sat @CLEM 3 - 38 L +7 +7.5 L -27.5 46.5 48.5 U -7.5 G
10/24/09 Sat @NAVY 10 - 13 L +0 -2.5 L -5.5 47.0 47.0 U -24.0 G
10/31/09 Sat MIA 27 - 28 L +6.5 +6.5 W 5.5 51.0 51.0 O +- 4.0 G
11/07/09 Sat @GATECH 27 - 30 L +16 +14 W 11 60.0 60.0 U -3.0 G
11/14/09 Sat FLST 28 - 41 L -6 -5 L -18 56.0 56.5 O +-12.5 G


Duke Blue Devils
LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY OPP SCORE SU OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
09/05/09 Sat RICH 16 - 24 L -0 -0 L -8 NL NL G
09/12/09 Sat @ARMY 35 - 19 W -3 -2 W 14 NL NL T
09/19/09 Sat @KS 16 - 44 L +20.5 +23.5 L -4.5 52.0 52.0 O +- 8.0 T
09/26/09 Sat NCCENT 49 - 14 W -0 -0 W 35 NL NL G
10/03/09 Sat VATECH 26 - 34 L +13 +17 W 9 46.0 48.5 O +-11.5 G
10/10/09 Sat @NCST 49 - 28 W +16 +15.5 W 36.5 55.0 54.0 O +-23.0 G
10/24/09 Sat MD 17 - 13 W -8 -4 L 0 56.0 55.5 U -25.5 G
10/31/09 Sat @VA 28 - 17 W +6 +7.5 W 18.5 48.0 47.5 U -2.5 G
11/07/09 Sat @NC 6 - 19 L +7.5 +10 L -3 44.0 45.5 U -20.5 G
11/14/09 Sat GATECH 10 - 49 L +8.5 +13.5 L -25.5 59.0 59.0 U 0.0 G
11/21/09 Sat @MIA 16 - 34 L +20 +19 W 1 57.0 57.0 U -7.0 G



PREVIOUS MEETINGS:

LINE OVER/UNDER
DATE DAY VIS SC HOM SC OPEN CLOSE ATS &
MARGIN OPEN CLOSE O/U &
MARGIN G/T
10/29/05 Sat WF 44 DUKE 6 +15.5 +13 DUKE --25 NL NL O +-50 G
09/09/06 Sat DUKE 13 WF 14 -28.0 -21.0 WF --20 NL NL O +-27 G
10/06/07 Sat WF 41 DUKE 36 +8 +7.5 DUKE +2.5 47.0 49.0 O +-28 G
11/01/08 Sat DUKE 30 WF 33 -11.0 -7.5 WF --4.5 42.0 42.0 O +-21 G




STATISTICAL AVERAGES:


AWAY/HOME RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
WF (off) 16.0 17 34 97 2.9 32 19 0.6 222 6.9 319 0.8 0.5
DUKE (def) 26.8 16 38 144 3.8 20 12 0.6 198 9.9 342 0.2 0.8
RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
WF (def) 27.0 19 51 279 5.5 17 9 0.5 117 6.9 396 0.5 0.8
DUKE (off) 23.6 20 28 68 2.4 43 28 0.7 318 7.4 386 0.6 0.4
ALL GAMES RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
WF (off) 24.6 22 36 132 3.7 34 22 0.6 262 7.7 394 1.1 0.6
DUKE (def) 26.8 18 39 155 4.0 28 15 0.5 202 7.2 357 0.7 0.9
RUSHING PASSING TOT TURNOVERS
PTS FD AT YDS AVG AT CO PCT YDS AVG YDS INT FUM
WF (def) 25.5 19 38 173 4.6 29 16 0.6 203 7.0 376 0.7 0.5
DUKE (off) 24.4 19 29 63 2.2 41 25 0.6 298 7.3 361 0.8 0.5



SCORING AVERAGES:

Wake Forest Demon Deacons (away) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 0.0 8.3 8.3 0.0 7.0 0.0 7
POINTS ALLOWED 8.3 7.8 16.1 5.3 3.5 1.5 10.3



Duke Blue Devils (home) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 9.4 4.0 13.4 4.8 5.4 0.0 10.2
POINTS ALLOWED 6.2 9.6 15.8 4.8 6.2 0.0 11



Wake Forest Demon Deacons (all) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 5.3 8.0 13.3 5.1 6.0 0.0 11.1
POINTS ALLOWED 7.4 6.8 14.2 4.7 5.8 0.5 11



Duke Blue Devils (all) Q1 Q2 H1 Q3 Q4 OT H2+OT
POINTS FOR 7.3 4.5 11.8 4.6 7.9 0.0 12.5
POINTS ALLOWED 5.9 7.6 13.5 5.8 7.5 0.0 13.3



VALUE INDEX COMPARISON TO LAS VEGAS LINE:

LV POINTSPREAD VALUE INDEX VALUE INDEX
OPEN CURRENT RATING LINE EDGE
Wake Forest Demon Deacons 53.5 -22.0 18.0
Duke Blue Devils 27.5
LV OVER/UNDER VALUE INDEX VALUE INDEX
OPEN CURRENT RATING EDGE
OVER/UNDER 52 UNKNOWN

 

[Lumi]

Preview:
Wake Forest at Duke
When: 12:00 PM ET, Saturday, November 28, 2009
Where: Wallace Wade Stadium, Durham, North Carolina

Quick Hits

Overall Team Offense

The Duke Blue Devils are ranked 70 on offense, averaging 360.6 yards per game. The Blue Devils are averaging 63.1 yards rushing and 297.5 yards passing so far this season.

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons are ranked 51 on offense, averaging 394.7 yards per game. The Demon Deacons are averaging 132.3 yards rushing and 262.5 yards passing so far this season.


Home and Away

The Duke Blue Devils are 2-3 at home this season, 3-4 against conference opponents and 2-2 against non-conference opponents.

At home the Blue Devils are averaging 23.6 scoring, and holding teams to 26.8 points scored on defense.

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons are 0-4 while on the road this season, 2-5 against conference opponents and 2-2 against non-conference opponents.

On the road, the Demon Deacons are averaging 16.0 scoring, and holding teams to 27.0 points scored on defense.

 

[Lumi]

Trends - Wake Forest at Duke

Trends - Wake Forest at Duke

Trends - Wake Forest at Duke

ATS Trends

Wake Forest

Demon Deacons are 13-4 ATS in their last 17 games following a ATS loss.
Demon Deacons are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
Demon Deacons are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a S.U. loss.
Demon Deacons are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
Demon Deacons are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
Demon Deacons are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
Demon Deacons are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 road games.
Demon Deacons are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a road favorite of 3.5-10.0.
Demon Deacons are 0-4 ATS vs. a team with a losing record.


Duke

Blue Devils are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
Blue Devils are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating more than 280 yards passing in their previous game.
Blue Devils are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games in November.
Blue Devils are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 home games.
Blue Devils are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games as a home underdog of 3.5-10.0.
Blue Devils are 5-17 ATS in their last 22 games as a home underdog.
Blue Devils are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS win.


OU Trends

Wake Forest

Under is 5-0 in Demon Deacons last 5 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game.
Under is 7-1 in Demon Deacons last 8 road games.
Over is 5-1-1 in Demon Deacons last 7 games following a double-digit loss at home.
Over is 4-1 in Demon Deacons last 5 games after accumulating more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
Over is 4-1 in Demon Deacons last 5 games as a road favorite of 3.5-10.0.
Over is 6-2-1 in Demon Deacons last 9 games as a road favorite.
Over is 3-1-1 in Demon Deacons last 5 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.
Over is 8-3 in Demon Deacons last 11 games as a favorite of 3.5-10.0.
Over is 5-2 in Demon Deacons last 7 games after allowing more than 40 points in their previous game.
Over is 5-2 in Demon Deacons last 7 conference games.


Duke

Under is 4-0-1 in Blue Devils last 5 games overall.
Under is 7-0 in Blue Devils last 7 vs. a team with a losing record.
Under is 3-0-1 in Blue Devils last 4 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game.
Over is 11-0-1 in Blue Devils last 12 games as a home underdog of 3.5-10.0.
Under is 4-0-1 in Blue Devils last 5 games on grass.
Under is 3-0-1 in Blue Devils last 4 games as an underdog.
Under is 4-0-1 in Blue Devils last 5 games after accumulating less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game.
Under is 4-0-1 in Blue Devils last 5 conference games.
Under is 5-1-1 in Blue Devils last 7 games in November.
Over is 19-4-3 in Blue Devils last 26 games as a home underdog.
Over is 4-1-1 in Blue Devils last 6 games following a S.U. loss.
Over is 21-7-3 in Blue Devils last 31 home games.
Over is 10-4-1 in Blue Devils last 15 games as an underdog of 3.5-10.0.


Head to Head

Demon Deacons are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 meetings.
Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings.
Road team is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings.