Week 11 Info

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Opening line report: Injuries affecting Week 11 lines

The dog days of winter have settled over the NFL.

Last Sunday underdogs went 9-3-1 against the spread and during the last three weeks dogs have compiled a 27-12-1 ATS record.

But these recent trends haven?t prevented sportsbooks from posting a lopsided wagering board. Week 11 is littered with heavy favorites with a total of eight spreads positioned at nine or more points.

?It?s obviously a league that does not have parity and as we get closer towards the playoffs and playoff positioning we?ll look to favor teams that are in it as opposed to the teams that are out of it,? said Pete Korner, founder of the Sports Club in Las Vegas.

The NFL Network kicks off the week with its second straight Thursday night football game as the Carolina Panthers (4-5, 4-5 ATS) host the Miami Dolphins (4-5, 4-5 ATS) in an out-of-conference affair.

The Sports Club sent out 3 in favor of Carolina and the spread can be found as high as 3.5 at some shops. The total for the game was released at 45 and was quickly bet down to 43.5.

Ronnie Brown, the straw that stirs Miami?s potent Wildcat concoction, injured his right ankle during the third quarter on Sunday. X-rays came back negative, but a short week means abbreviated recovery time so the chances of Brown being ready to go by Thursday are slim.

?He?s one of the top backs and that is why you might see the line a little higher than the three we had,? Korner stated. ?He is a factor for Miami, but this is pretty much where the line should be.?

The Panthers appear to have turned the corner, winning four of their last six after dropping the first three games of 2009. But Carolina?s 25th-ranked rush defense will have to contend with Miami?s relentless ground attack.

Sunday afternoon showcases a pivotal divisional game as the San Diego Chargers (6-3, 4-5 ATS) visit the Denver Broncos (6-3, 6-3 ATS).

The top spot in the AFC West is on the line and these two teams are heading in opposite directions. Denver has lost three in a row, including three consecutive ATS losses, while the Chargers have reeled off four straight victories.

Most sportsbooks have yet to post a line due to the uncertainty of Kyle Orton, but the Sports Club released a spread of 2.5 in favor of the Chargers with a total of 45.

?I think bettors are kind of waiting around to see what the condition of Orton is,? said Korner. ?If he?s out we see this easily going up to four, but San Diego will be the favorite. Denver is obviously showing its true mettle right now that they are not a good team.?

Orton injured his left ankle during the loss to Washington and head coach Josh McDaniels said the team will take a ?few days? to evaluate his playing status for Sunday.

Following an upset win over Pittsburgh at Heinz Field, the Cincinnati Bengals (7-2, 6-3 ATS) find themselves perched atop the AFC North and the schedule becomes much more favorable from here on out.

The Bengals? next three opponents have a combined 4-22 record and Cincy begins the three-week vacation with the Oakland Raiders (2-7, 4-5 ATS).

?We clearly wanted to be high for [this spread], and very high,? Korner said. ?We sent out 10.5 and I think there are 9?s out there right now which I don?t think is a good number at all. I don?t think there is going to be a letdown. I think it?s going to be all Cincinnati money.?

Running back Cedric Benson left last week?s game and has been diagnosed with an abductor muscle strain. His status for the game in Oakland is uncertain, but Korner doesn?t believe Benson is enough of a marquee name to affect the line.

Other Week 11 NFL lines: Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars (-9); Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs (+10); San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers (-6.5); Seattle Seahawks at Minnesota Vikings (-11); Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys (-11); New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+11); Arizona Cardinals at St. Louis Rams (+9); New York Jets at New England Patriots (-10.5); Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (+2.5); Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans (-4.5).

The pointspreads for the Browns-Lions, Colts-Ravens and Falcons-Giants have not been released.

 

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Heavily favored Steelers may miss All-Pro Polamalu

Heavily favored Steelers may miss All-Pro Polamalu

Heavily favored Steelers may miss All-Pro Polamalu


Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu is questionable for Sunday?s game against the Kansas City Chiefs with a knee injury.

Polamalu reinjured the same left knee he dinged in the season opener that forced him to miss four straight games. The first injury sustained was a sprained MCL, but Polamalu?s latest setback is a PCL strain ? considered to be not as serious and with no effect on the MCL.

?Everyone?s initial response was that it was a recurrence of the same injury that had happened in the early part of the year,? said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. ?That appears not to be the case. It?s on the same knee, but it?s not a re-injury.?

Tomlin is optimistic about Polamalu?s return, but said the team will evaluate him from a ?day-to-day? basis.

Pittsburgh has gone 1-3 ATS without Polamalu in the lineup this season with three of those four games sailing over the posted total.

Mike Seba, senior oddsmaker with the Las Vegas Sports Consultants, estimates the impact of Polamalu's absence is worth more to the line (1 to 1.5 points to the side and total) than any other defensive player in the NFL.

Polamalu has registered 20.0 tackles and three interceptions in 2009.

Oddsmakers have the Steelers favored by 10 points over the Chiefs with a posted total of 40.

 

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Looking Back at Week 10

Looking Back at Week 10

Looking Back at Week 10


Week 10 in the NFL was a good one for the books as underdogs dominated against the public. It?s almost makes you believe that parity isn?t completely dead in the NFL. Well, that?s true for everyone except the Browns.

We had a great win with the Rams hanging tough at home against New Orleans. The Saints have not covered the number in their last three games, which were all double-digit spreads. That has hurt a lot of their backers since they went 6-0 against the spread to start the year. New Orleans has seen its point total fall over its last four games, going from 48 points against the Giants to 28 against the Rams last Sunday. The biggest reason for that is turnovers: Drew Brees has thrown seven interceptions in his last four starts after throwing just two in his first five.



It?ll be interesting to see how gamblers react this week as the Saints head south to play the 1-8 Bucs. Rookie quarterback Josh Freeman has brought some life to what was a lackadaisical Tampa Bay side since becoming starter after the open date. In his first start, he led the Buccaneers to a comeback win over Green Bay. And he drove the Bucs to a late touchdown to lead Miami last weekend, only to lose on a last second field goal.

We?re still giving the Bucs 11 points at home because we would get buried by bettors backing New Orleans if we gave any less. Gamblers have a lot of faith in the Saints, which is far from preposterous since they have yet to lose this season.

We had another big win when the Panthers beat Atlanta as small home dogs. That makes three consecutive ATS wins for Carolina and ? wouldn?t you know it? ? three straight interception-free games for Jake Delhomme after a start to the season that was so horrifying, Steve King couldn?t have imagined it.

On Thursday, the Panthers will be favored (-3) for just the fourth time this year Miami comes to town. If Delhomme continues to take care of the ball and Carolina keeps racking up 200 yards per game on the ground, then they?ll be awful tough to beat.

We?ll also be keeping a close eye on the Giants hosting the Falcons. The first thing we?re looking at is if Michael Turner will be suiting up for Atlanta. After we post the number, we?ll carefully monitor how New York?s bettors treat a team has come up a loser in four straight games. Will they hope the week off will give the G-Men a boost or are people sick and tired of playing the bounce-back?

 

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Rejoice, all ye fans of the Super Bowl and haters of horrible music.

It was reported earlier this week that The Who will be the halftime entertainment at Super Bowl XLIV in Miami on February 7th, hopefully putting to rest those nasty rumors that Bon Jovi - aka the worst thing to happen to music in the past 25 years - would be descending upon South Florida and threatening to make me lose my NFL-bought lunch.

Perhaps the league wised up and realized they would be ending their streak of first-rate halftime entertainment at five years (McCartney, the Stones, Prince, Petty, Springsteen), or perhaps Bon Jovi was already committed to play somewhere else in the world for one of those groups of faded Stepford wives that make up their fan base. Sorry Jon, the next Arena Bowl has your name written all over it.

The guess here is that "Baba O'Riley," "Won't Get Fooled Again," and "Who Are You," will be in The Who's setlist for the CBS-broadcast Super Bowl. Probably worth mentioning that you can also hear those songs, used as opening themes, on CBS' ubiquitous "CSI" series.

...the Bengals got it done. Sorry for hating on you, Cincinnati, but it remains somewhat difficult to believe in an organization that has been as historically mismanaged as the Bengals. Inasmuch, this looked to many like the week that the Bengals would get their comeuppance, but Marvin Lewis' team rolled into Heinz Field and emerged with an 18-12 victory, holding the Steelers to 226 yards and four field goals, playing efficient enough on offense to get into position for four Shayne Graham field goals, and scoring the game's only touchdown on a 96-yard Bernard Scott kickoff return in the fourth quarter. The Bengals (7-2), who are back alone atop the AFC North, completed their first sweep of the Steelers since 1998, and Carson Palmer became the first Bengals QB to beat Pittsburgh twice in a year since Boomer Esiason in 1990.

...the Redskins scored more than 17 points, and also showed up to play. The Redskins hadn't scored more than 17 in a game all year, and with Clinton Portis (concussion) scratched against his former team, the Broncos, it didn't look like things were going to get much better for Jim Zorn's team. But backup running back Ladell Betts rambled for 114 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries in Portis' place, as the Redskins racked up 388 yards of total offense in a 27-17 victory. Washington scored one of its touchdowns on a nicely-thrown trick-play throw from punter Hunter Smith to fullback Mike Sellers in the second quarter, and later benefited from an ankle injury that knocked Kyle Orton (11-of-18, 193 yards, 2 TD) out of the game later in the frame. Chris Simms, playing his first meaningful football since 2006, was an awful 3-of-13 for 13 yards and an interception in Orton's place.

...the struggles of Matt Ryan and the Falcons continued. This looked like a perfect opportunity for Atlanta to show that it was the best team in the NFC South not called the Saints, but the Falcons were chasing it almost from the outset in what would become a 28-19 loss. Mike Smith's club was dealt an early blow when Michael Turner, who was having a huge game with 111 yards on his first nine carries, left in the second quarter with an ankle sprain. That put the pressure on Ryan (22-of-41, 224 yards), who threw multiple picks for the fourth time in his last five starts and sunk Atlanta with an INT in the Carolina end with less than four minutes left and the Falcons down, 21-19. Instead of a setting his team up for a game-winning field goal, Ryan gave the ball back to the Panthers, who sealed the contest with a 45-yard Jonathan Stewart touchdown run three plays later.

...the Rams and Bucs - two double-digit underdogs - nearly blew up survivor pools from coast to coast. Neither the Saints nor the Dolphins were supposed to be challenged very much by their respective opponents, St. Louis and Tampa Bay, and both found themselves in dogfights late in the fourth quarter. The Rams came alive with 434 yards of total offense in a 28-23 loss, including 298 through the air for Marc Bulger (26-of-40, 298 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT) and 131 on the ground for Steven Jackson, but a late attempt at a game-winning drive fizzled out in the final minute when a Bulger pass attempt fell incomplete to Danny Amendola in the end zone. Meanwhile in Miami, the Bucs were celebrating what would have been their second straight win when Cadillac Williams' 1-yard touchdown run put them ahead, 23-22, with 1:14 to play. But Chad Henne atoned for a costly fourth-quarter interception and led a five-play, 77-yard drive that put the Dolphins (4-5) in position for Dan Carpenter's game-winning 25- yard field goal, which sealed a 25-23 Miami triumph.

...the Eagles failed to rebound. Philadelphia looked listless in its 20-16 home loss to Dallas a week ago, but the Eagles have not made a habit of stacking bad performances during the Andy Reid/Donovan McNabb era. And, though Philly worked hard to get back from a 28-9 deficit in their Week 10 tilt at San Diego, the comeback effort proved too little, too late, in the Chargers' 31-23 victory. The Birds did not consistently stop Philip Rivers (20-of-35, 231 yards, 2 TD, 0 INT), LaDainian Tomlinson (24 carries, 96 yards, 2 TD), or Antonio Gates (7 receptions, 78 yards), and the return of Brian Westbrook (8 total touches, 54 yards) was short-lived before Philly's former Pro Bowl back exited with another concussion. Donovan McNabb completed 35-of-55 passes for 450 yards and a couple of touchdowns in the loss, but with no touchdown drives led until the fourth quarter, those amount to empty numbers.

I WAS NOT SURPRISED THAT...

...the last team that had the ball (for all intents and purposes) won the Colts/Patriots game. Had New England, leading 34-28, converted a highly risky and highly debatable 4th-and-2 from its own 28-yard line with just over two minutes to play, that winner would have been the Patriots, who led for most of the night. Instead, Indianapolis tackled running back-turned-receiver Kevin Faulk just short of the line to gain, handing the ball back to Peyton Manning with two minutes to play. True to form, the Colts scored four plays later, as Manning hit Reggie Wayne on a 1-yard slant with just 13 ticks to play to give the Colts a 35-34 win and close out an instant classic. Manning finished 28- of-44 for 327 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions. Tom Brady was as good if not better, completing 29-of-42 for 375 yards, three touchdowns and one pick. At 9-0, the Colts are unlikely to be caught in the race for the AFC's top seed. At 6-3, the Patriots still have lots of work to do.

...Chris Johnson and the Titans kept rolling. I had predicted earlier in the week that Johnson would challenge the NFL single-game rushing record against the Bills' 32nd-ranked rushing defense, and while that didn't quite happen, Johnson still had himself a day in Tennessee's 41-17 rout of Buffalo. Johnson carried 26 times for 132 yards and two touchdowns in the win, also catching nine balls for 100 yards out of the backfield as the Titans won their third straight after an 0-6 start. Johnson, who went over 1,000 yards for the season, also became the first player in franchise history to hit triple-digits both on the ground and through the air since Billy Cannon on Dec. 10, 1961. Johnson's second TD of the day broke a 17-17 tie early in the fourth quarter, and pick-six touchdowns by Rod Hood and Vincent Fuller in the final three minutes led to the huge final margin.

...the Vikings came out of the bye and took care of business. On a day in which the heavily-favored likes of the Saints and Dolphins struggled against lesser opponents, Minnesota kept Detroit at arm's length throughout the day in an eventual 27-10 victory. Brett Favre (20-of-29, 344 yards, 1 TD), Sidney Rice (7 receptions, 201 yards) and Adrian Peterson (18 rushes, 133 yards, 2 TD) all had huge days for the Vikings, who out-gained the Lions, 492-297, and inched closer to the NFC North title in the process. Detroit is now 0-12 in Minnesota since last winning there in 1997, has lost 15 of its last 16 overall to the Vikings, 16 straight on the road since a win at Chicago on Oct. 28, 2007, and 17 straight in November road games since winning at the Giants in 2000. Ouch.

...the Seahawks played inspired football, albeit in a losing effort, in Arizona. Though Seattle was a 27-3 home loser to the Cardinals in Week 6, and though the Seahawks had lost in their last three trips to Arizona, it stood to reason that Jim Mora's team would play hard in what represented perhaps their final chance to save their season. Seattle jumped on the Cardinals early, taking leads of 14-0 and 17-7, but their defense didn't answer the bell in the second half of what would become a 31-20 loss. Kurt Warner led second-half touchdown drives of 82, 80, and 85 yards, with Beanie Wells scoring on runs of 10 and 13 yards in a Cardinals victory that moved them to 6-3 and kept them two games clear of second-place San Francisco (4-5) in the NFC West.

...the Packers rebounded, and the Cowboys regressed. NFL logic dictated that Green Bay, which was humiliated by the last-place Buccaneers and left for dead last week, would beat Dallas, which had moved into first-place with what was viewed as a landmark victory in Philadelphia. And that's exactly what happened, as the Packers handled the Cowboys, 17-7, to end their two-game losing streak. The Green Bay defense made life miserable for Tony Romo (24- of-39, 251 yards, 1 TD, 2 turnovers) and the Dallas offense, which was held off the scoreboard for 59-plus minutes before a garbage-time touchdown. Packers cornerback Charles Woodson had a gigantic game with nine tackles, a sack, an interception, and two forced fumbles as Green Bay (5-4) gave itself the right to continue thinking playoffs.

FIVE GOOD PLAYERS ON BAD TEAMS

5. Jairus Byrd, FS, Bills. Has anyone else noticed what this kid has been doing? Byrd took over the NFL lead in interceptions from the injured Darren Sharper on Sunday, notching his eighth interception of the year, all of which have come in his past five games. The second-round rookie out of Oregon, and son of former Chargers Pro Bowl cornerback Gill Byrd, last week became the first NFL player since the 49ers' Dave Baker in 1960 to pick off two passes in three consecutive games. Despite having that streak snapped against the Titans, Byrd is on pace to break the single-season NFL record for interceptions and rookie interceptions, which has stood since 1952 when the Rams' Dick (Night Train) Lane picked off 14 passes as a rookie.

4. Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Raiders. Asomugha's skills are a secret to no one at this stage, as opposing quarterbacks have continued to go nowhere near the seventh-year pro's direction this season. In fact, Asomugha's most revealing stat is that he has no stats, with just two interceptions since 2007 thanks to the terror that he causes opposing QB's and coordinators. Maybe one day we'll have a chance to see Asomugha play in a meaningful game...if it ever happens, chances are he won't be playing as a Raider.

3. Joshua Cribbs, WR/KR, Browns. When the Baltimore Ravens peer over their scouting reports in advance of their matchup with the Browns on Monday night, you can believe that Cribbs' name will be highlighted, circled, and in bold- face type. Cribbs leads the NFL in punt return average (16.4) and kickoff return yards (860), has touchdowns on both avenues, and has also played a role as a rusher (19 carries, 130 yards), receiver (11 receptions), and Wildcat- style quarterback. Yet for some reason, the Browns don't want to renegotiate the six-year, $6.77 million contract that Cribbs signed in 2006, and has clearly out-performed. What a great organization.

2. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions. Although it might be tempting to question whether Johnson has lived up to his No. 2 overall status in the 2007 Draft given his team's record, don't let the long-standing weakness of the Lions lead you to believe that Johnson is anything less than a top-three receiver in the NFL. Despite playing on poor teams with a revolving door of quarterbacks, Johnson continues to pose as offensive threat number one for opposing coordinators to stop. The Georgia Tech product had eight catches for 85 yards against the Vikings on Sunday, and if he ever gets on the same page with the developing Matthew Stafford, he'll begin to put up the Andre Johnson-type numbers that his talent suggests he should.

1. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams. Jackson is a marvel, putting up numbers week after week despite the fact that a) he's playing with arguably the weakest supporting cast in the league, which includes a poor offensive line and b) continuing to run hard and get his yards despite being on a team that encounters double-digit deficits nearly every week. Jackson posted his fifth 100-yard day of the year, and third straight, against the Saints on Sunday, and needs just 85 yards to reach 1,000 for the fifth straight season. If Jackson keeps running this way, he ought to be in the Pro Bowl, no questions asked.

BEGGING THE QUESTIONS

Here's a fun and challenging one, where you have to name the NFL's passing yards leader for every letter except X. If you get the man who represents the letter "I", let's just say you're a fan of the game. I picked up 20 out of 25, and Mr. I was not one of my 20. Enjoy.

 

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Time is now for Eagles after back-to-back losses

Time is now for Eagles after back-to-back losses

Time is now for Eagles after back-to-back losses
If the Philadelphia Eagles are to emerge as something other than phonies, it's imperative that coach Andy Reid and quarterback Donovan McNabb show some urgency.

The lackadaisical approach of the underachieving Eagles is not getting old -- it was old a long time ago. It became difficult to take the Eagles seriously after their loss at Oakland on Oct. 18.

Now, after Philadelphia's back-to-back losses to Dallas and San Diego, McNabb returns home to Chicago to face Jay Cutler and the Bears, who play so poorly at times it's comical.

The Eagles are 3-point favorites over the Bears on Sunday, and the loser can start looking ahead to free agency and the NFL Draft.

With the NFC East still up for grabs, Philadelphia (5-4) remains in the playoff picture, so the time for excuses and letdowns has passed.

I'll lay the points with the Eagles, who have more to play for and are far more talented offensively. Once again, though, the preseason hype surrounding Reid's team has not equaled results.

Reid's experiment with Michael Vick has been a complete failure at this point. Vick has completed 2 of 7 passes for 6 yards and added just 27 yards rushing. Why waste the effort and money?

Vick could be Philadelphia's so-called quarterback of the future if McNabb fails down the stretch, and that's the only way his signing makes sense.

But the Eagles have done a few things well. They added weapons around McNabb through the draft, picking up speedy wideouts DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin and running back LeSean McCoy.

Jackson and Maclin have combined for eight touchdown receptions this season. McCoy has 353 yards rushing, and his presence helps make up for the absence of injury-prone veteran Brian Westbrook.

McNabb's passing numbers look good -- 12 touchdowns and four interceptions -- but he too seldom finds the end zone. Philadelphia's red zone failures led to three David Akers field goals and a 28-9 deficit against the Chargers last week. McNabb passed for 450 yards but did not produce a TD until the fourth quarter.

Still, all things considered, they should handle the self-destructing Bears, who are 4-5 with one victory against an opponent with a winning record. Cutler has not helped, throwing 17 interceptions.

If McNabb can't win this one, it might be time for the Eagles to unveil Vick and plan for next year.

Four more plays for Week 11 (Home team in CAPS):

? Colts (Pick) over RAVENS: This appears to be a better situation for Baltimore. Indianapolis is wounded on defense, sputtering some on offense and has failed to cover its past three games. The Colts are fortunate to be 9-0 and look vulnerable. But Peyton Manning is 5-0 against the Ravens, and the Colts are 4-0 against the spread on the road. When in doubt, go with Manning.

? 49ers (+61/2) over PACKERS: San Francisco tends to hang tough on the road -- 3-0-1 ATS this season -- for coach Mike Singletary. Frank Gore's hard running can keep the 49ers close in the fourth quarter. Offensive line breakdowns and quarterback Aaron Rodgers' indecisiveness are crippling the Green Bay offense.

? RAIDERS (+91/2) over Bengals: This pick is a reach, because I almost never take Oakland. But the quarterback switch from JaMarcus Russell to Bruce Gradkowski should boost the Raiders. The underdog is 9-0 in Cincinnati's games. The Bengals are on the road after a big win at Pittsburgh, and running back Cedric Benson is doubtful.

? Chargers (-3) over BRONCOS: San Diego is getting hot and seeking revenge. The Chargers were impressive in road victories over Kansas City and the New York Giants. Quarterback play should make the difference, and one has to believe Philip Rivers will outplay either Chris Simms or a hobbled Kyle Orton.

Last week: 2-3 against the spread

Season: 24-25-1

 

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NFL WEEK 11 CAPSULES

NFL WEEK 11 CAPSULES

NFL WEEK 11 CAPSULES




Cleveland (1-8) at Detroit (1-8)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Lions -3? Total: 38?
TV: None
Facts: Mike Furrey is the Browns? leading receiver with 21 catches after getting six Monday against Baltimore. ... Detroit has been putting the game in rookie QB Matthew Stafford?s hands. Over the past two weeks the Lions have had at least twice as many passes as runs. That never happened the first seven games. ... Cleveland, which churned out 160 yards in a 16-0 loss to Baltimore, averages 214.3 yards a game. No team has been that horrible since the 1946 Boston Yanks.
Analysis: It got so bad for Cleveland on Monday that QB Brady Quinn?s two Hail Mary throws didn?t have a prayer of landing inbounds. Detroit, meanwhile, is one of the few teams that won?t take the Browns for granted.
Forecast: Lions 28, Browns 7

Buffalo (3-6) at Jacksonville (5-4)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Jaguars -8? Total: 42?
TV: None
Weather: High 70s, 60 percent chance of rain
Facts: The spread might be inflated based on two late interception-return TDs against Buffalo in last week?s 41-17, coach-killing meltdown at Tennessee. ... The Bills promoted defensive coordinator Perry Fewell to replace head coach Dick Jauron. Fewell?s unit has yielded 173 rushing yards a game, matching the worst norm for a team the past four years.
Analysis: Over the past decade, teams making a midseason coaching swap are 1-13 against the line in their first game under the new guy. And it?s not as if Buffalo owner Ralph Wilson had his thinking cap on and made this switch during a bye week.
Forecast: Jaguars 35, Bills 13

Pittsburgh (6-3) at Kansas City (2-7)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Steelers -10 Total: 40
TV: None
Weather: High 50s
Facts: For the first time in four games, Pittsburgh isn?t facing a division leader. ... Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had his worst completion percentage of the season (50.0) last week against Cincinnati and his receivers averaged only 8.7 yards a connection. ... K.C.?s Dwayne Bowe, the team?s leading receiver, is starting a league-mandated four-game suspension.
Analysis: The Chiefs, with an NFL-low one rushing TD, face the NFL?s stiffest run defense. That puts the burden on QB Matt Cassel. Good luck to the league?s 23rd-rated passer, especially without his top receiver.
Forecast: Steelers 30, Chiefs 7

Indianapolis (9-0) at Baltimore (5-4)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Colts -1 Total: 44
TV: CBS (8)
Weather: Mid-50s
Facts: The Colts have won six in a row in the series, dating to 2002, going 5-1 against the line, and even winning on the road in the 2006 playoffs 15-6 without a TD. ... Baltimore QB Joe Flacco had three 300-yard games and 11 TD passes through six weeks, but has only one TD pass in the past three and hasn?t reached 200 yards. ... The last time the Colts were 9-0, in 2006, they lost on the road against a 5-4 Dallas team.
Analysis: The Colts should remain focused after last week?s 35-34 comeback victory against New England. Last year they followed a victory over the Patriots by upsetting the Super Steelers on the road.
Forecast: Colts 21, Ravens 14

Atlanta (5-4) at N.Y. Giants (5-4)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Giants -6? Total: 46
TV: None
Weather: Mid-50s
Facts: The visiting team has won the past 12 games in this rivalry, including a 27-7 Atlanta victory in the Meadowlands in 2003 as an 11-point underdog. ... Atlanta RB Michael Turner (questionable, ankle), who had a Week 9-high 166 yards against Washington, had 111 yards on nine carries at Carolina last week before going down. His backup is Jason Snelling, averaging 4.9 yards per rush. ... Giants QB Eli Manning (probable) insists his injured foot is fine after the bye week.
Analysis: Atlanta is leaking oil. Jason Elam has been butchering field-goal tries, Matt Ryan has the worst completion percentage for a QB on a winning team and the defense has yielded a league-worst 12 TD drives of 80-plus yards.
Forecast: Giants 34, Falcons 14

San Francisco (4-5) at Green Bay (5-4)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Packers -6? Total: 42?
TV: None RADIO: KWWN-AM (1100)
Weather: Low 50s
Facts: The Packers allowed four more sacks last week against Dallas, raising its league-worst total to 41. The 1986 Eagles hold the NFL mark with 104. ... San Francisco snapped a four-game skid with a 10-6 spread-beating victory against Chicago two Thursdays ago. ... In 2008, teams coming off midseason Thursday games were 12-6 against the line the next week, including six straight-up victories as an underdog. ... Mike Singletary?s 49ers are 3-0-1 against the spread on the road.
Analysis: If the Packers play as inspired as they did last week in smothering the Cowboys, this one won?t be close. But that?s not going to happen, especially with the running tenacity of 49ers RB Frank Gore (5.2 yards per carry).
Forecast: Packers 20, 49ers 17

Seattle (3-6) at Minnesota (8-1)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Vikings -11 Total: 46
TV: None
Facts: The Seahawks blew a 14-0 lead in a 31-20 loss at Arizona last week, a league-high seventh time the past three years Seattle has lost after having a double-digit edge. ... Minnesota?s Brett Favre, the league?s top-rated QB, will be facing a team tied for eighth-worst in defensive passing rating. Favre already has met four foes listed in the bottom six. ... QB Matt Hasselbeck sabotaged Seattle?s comeback attempt in the closing minutes against the Cardinals by throwing interceptions at the Arizona 25 and 3.
Analysis: The Seahawks? starting cornerbacks, Marcus Trufant and Josh Wilson, have concussions. Good grief! Vikings WR Sidney Rice might get another 200 yards.
Forecast: Vikings 38, Seahawks 20

Washington (3-6) at Dallas (6-3)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Cowboys -11 Total: 41?
TV: Fox (5)
Weather: Mid-60s
Facts: The Cowboys are the only team in the league not to begin a possession inside the foes? 27-yard line. Conversely, Green Bay has done it 10 times. ... Three teams have seen their announced home attendance drop each game this season: St. Louis, Cleveland and even Dallas, which had 105,000-plus for its home opener, but only 80,000-plus in its most recent game in Jerry?s Palace. ... Washington has the league?s No. 5-rated defense, but is tops when it comes to allowing yards through the air.
Analysis: Dallas? swift Felix Jones, who had 40- and 56-yard runs in September, hasn?t been the same since his knee injury. And with Marion Barber running in cement, the Redskins? defense should keep this close.
Forecast: Cowboys 19, Redskins 16

New Orleans (9-0) at Tampa Bay (1-8)
Time: 10 a.m. Line: Saints -11? Total: 51
TV: None
Weather: High 70s
Facts: Tampa Bay?s Josh Freeman will be the third rookie QB to start against the Saints this year. New Orleans beat the Lions? Matthew Stafford and the Jets? Mark Sanchez, intercepting each three times. ... The Saints, who beat St. Louis last week 28-23, have failed to cover in their past four victories. ... Flashback: In 1977, the Bucs beat the Saints 33-14 as an 11-point underdog, breaking their infamous 26-game losing streak.
Analysis: The Bucs have shown a spark since that Week 9 victory against Green Bay and should put a scare into an unbeaten team that has committed 14 turnovers the past four games. And don?t hold your breath for Saints RB Reggie Bush (questionable, knee).
Forecast: Saints 31, Buccaneers 30

Arizona (6-3) at St. Louis (1-8)
Time: 1:05 p.m. Line: Cardinals -9 Total: 47
TV: None
Facts: Arizona is 4-0 on the road and seems likely to snap a 26-season streak without a winning road record. ... St. Louis RB Steven Jackson has averaged 5.8 yards a carry in totaling 414 yards the past three games during the Rams? 1-2 turnaround. He also had nine catches last week against New Orleans. ... Arizona won last week at home against Seattle despite 136 yards in penalties. That?s the highest total in the league the past two years.
Analysis: There have been four TD drives of 90-plus yards in the NFL the past two weeks, with three of them coming against Arizona. Yikes!
Forecast: Rams 24, Cardinals 21

N.Y. Jets (4-5) at New England (6-3)
Time: 1:15 p.m. Line: Patriots -10? Total: 45
TV: None
Weather: Low 50s
Facts: During the Patriots? perfect run in 2007, Tom Brady had 33 TD throws at this stage en route to a league-record 50. He?s got 19 now. ... During one second-half stretch last week, the Jets ran 30 plays and Jacksonville three. But the Jags still won, 24-22. ... The Patriots are 2-7 at home against the line against the Jets during the Bill Belichick era, even losing 17-14 in 2006 as a 10?-point favorite. That game came after a loss to Indianapolis.
Analysis: If the Patriots? defense was miffed after Belichick took that fourth-and-2 gamble last week, it should have shown its moxie by keeping Indy from scoring from the 28. New England gets a shot at redemption against a Jets team that?s turning soft in the defensive middle.
Forecast: Patriots 28, Jets 10

Cincinnati (7-2) at Oakland (2-7)
Time: 1:15 p.m. Line: Bengals -9? Total: 36
TV: None
Weather: High 50s
Facts: In May, Cincinnati was the longest shot on the board to win a division at 10-1, according to odds posted by The Venetian. ... Cincinnati WR Chad Ochocinco apparently is so overconfident he didn?t bother to mail insulting material to Oakland DBs this week. Or maybe he couldn?t afford it. ... Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell has been planted on the bench for the rest of 2008. It?s Bruce Gradkowski to the rescue. He has career totals of nine TD throws and 15 interceptions.
Analysis: This hasn?t been a fun trip for the Bengals in the past, going 0-9 lifetime in Oakland. Plus, with Cincinnati coming off fiercely emotional victories over Baltimore and Pittsburgh, there?s a question about what?s left in the adrenaline reservoir. Not to mention that workhorse RB Cedric Benson (questionable, hip flexor) might not play.
Forecast: Bengals 22, Raiders 20

San Diego (6-3) at Denver (6-3)
Time: 1:15 p.m. Line: Chargers -3 Total: 42?
TV: CBS (8) RADIO: KWWN-AM (1100)
Weather: Mid-40s
Facts: When these teams met in Week 6, the Chargers lost as a 4-point choice at San Diego. Denver has since gone on a three-game losing streak and the Chargers have won four in a row. ... Denver went scoreless after QB Kyle Orton (questionable, ankle) went down just before the half in Washington last week. Chris ?No Spleen? Simms, who hasn?t started a game in three years, filled in. ... San Diego, behind rejuvenated RB LaDainian Tomlinson, has scored TDs on five of its past six first-and-goal possessions after converting only four times in its previous 14.
Analysis: If Orton doesn?t play, the Broncos aren?t going to have a parachute to break their free fall. Simms is exasperatingly slow making decisions in the pocket, and when he does throw his floaters draw a crowd.
Forecast: Chargers 27, Broncos 13

Philadelphia (5-4) at Chicago (4-5)
Time: 5:20 p.m. Line: Eagles -3 Total: 45
TV: NBC (3) RADIO: KWWN-AM (1100)
Weather: High 40s
Facts: Chicago?s Jay Cutler threw five drive-crushing interceptions in 49ers territory last week. He had five such interceptions all of last season while with Denver. ... The Eagles started only 5-4 in 2006 and 2008 and still made the postseason. But RB Brian Westbrook (out, concussion) is seeing specialists about his head. ... The Bears had won nine in a row at home until their 42-21 loss to Arizona two weeks ago.
Analysis: Some of Cutler?s throws last week brought back memories of the old AFL when the Houston Oilers? George Blanda used to play as if he were wearing a blindfold. The Eagles? defense should befuddle Cutler even more.
Forecast: Eagles 27, Bears 16

MONDAY?S GAME

Tennessee (3-6) at Houston (5-4)
Time: 5:30 p.m. Line: Texans -4? Total: 48
TV: ESPN (30) RADIO: KWWN-AM (1100)
Weather: Mid-70s
Facts: Tennessee RB Chris Johnson, who had 197 yards rushing in a 34-31 loss to Houston in Week 2, leads the league with 1,091. He?s going to have to ratchet up his average by 9 yards a game to reach 2,000. ... Houston RB Steve Slaton has more yards after the catch than total yards (354/324). ... Tennessee has given up a league-high 23 touchdown passes, with four by Houston?s Matt Schaub.
Analysis: Since 2002, teams coming off a Week 10 bye have gone 17-3 against the line. Also, Texans fans will be excited to welcome back a playoff contender on Monday night.
Forecast: Texans 31, Titans 21

Last week: 3-11-1 vs. spread; 5-10 straight up
Season total: 65-76-3 vs. spread; 82-62 straight up

 

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Las Vegas Money Moves

Las Vegas Money Moves

Las Vegas Money Moves

The biggest pro football game in Week 11 is the battle for the AFC West lead between the San Diego Chargers (6-3) and Denver Broncos (6-3). However, in Las Vegas, the game is ?Off the Board? at nearly every Sports Book with the exception of Station Casinos books, where they have posted the Chargers in a circle as three-point road favorites.
Quarterback Kyle Orton hurt his left ankle last week at Washington with the team winning and was unable to practice Wednesday, but the team is at least not ruling him out.

"He's feeling better, we're going to see if he can do much today," Broncos Head Coach Josh McDaniels told the Denver Post just before the team took the field for Thursday?s practice. "Then (he'll) continue on with his rehab schedule, certainly not making any determination based on where he is now."





"But we'd love for him to be out there as soon as he can possibly be out there and we're hopeful he's going to play."

When Orton came out of the game in Washington, the fate of his team and Bronco bettors were in the hands of Chris Simms who looked like a deer in head lights, getting sacked three times and completing only 3-of-13 attempts for 13 yards with an interception. Those numbers were for an entire half of play and led directly to the 27-17 loss.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants are prepared with a line recommendation for either starter.

?I have the Chargers -2.5 with Orton playing and -4 with Simms in,? said LVSC odds maker Sean Van Patten. ?Simms hasn?t been in any real game situations since 2006, he?s rusty and he showed it last week.?

?The Broncos and Chargers are going in two different directions right now. The Chargers seem to have put it all together on both sides of the ball since they last met on Monday Night Football in Week 6, while Broncos are really struggling just to put points on the board since that meeting.?

The numbers support Van Patten?s logic. The Chargers have won four in a row since losing to the Broncos while the Broncos haven?t won, losing three straight.

To be fair to the Broncos, they did come off a bye losing all momentum gained from the quick 6-0 start. Then they traveled to the East Coast for a game at Baltimore, came home battered to play an equally bruising Steelers squad on a Monday, and then on a short week traveled back East to play Washington. Orton seemed to have righted the ship with big plays at Washington to start the game and then the injury came.

Chris Simms didn?t even get the chance to play a full preseason this year, only getting action in the first two, despite Orton being injured for the final two. Should Simms be forced to start this week, look for the number to run past the recommendation of -4, past the dead number of 5, onward to the -6 range. Chances are because the game will be bet with circled limits that the line will move more frequently than usual full limit games.

Third-string rookie quarterback Tom Brandstater may give Denver a better chance than Simms does. Heck, Phil Simms may give them a better chance. If you like the Chargers on Sunday, you should get on the wagon early when the announcement is made which could come on game day.

In other NFL games that have had lines up since Monday, there have been some takers of underdogs after Week 10 saw the pups go 9-6 against the spread, which included six outright winners.

The Browns have found some loves at +3.5 despite the poor performance at Baltimore where Eric Mangenius looked to keep the score low by not allowing his newly named QB Brady Quinn to throw farther than 15 yards until it was Hail Mary time. However, the Browns bet makes more sense when you see the Lions were laying -3.5. Hard to believe Detroit could be favored over anyone, even the Browns.

The Eagles opened -3 (Even) at Chicago for the Sunday night game and now they are -3 (-120), likely on the basis of Jay Cutler who just loves playing on centre court with all his colleagues watching. In three night games, Cutler has thrown three TD passes and 11 interceptions while only getting 35 points on the board for the Bears.

In one of the more interesting matchups of the week, the Texans have been bet from an opener of -4 to -5 for the Monday night game with the Titans. When they met in Week 2, some can say that defeat sent the Titans on their tail spin that saw them lose four more until finally winning with Vince Young behind center. Since Young has come aboard, Tennessee hasn?t lost and the entire team morale has shifted them closer to looking like the team from 2008.

Other games have seen lines flip-flopped with takers on each side after the moves. The Giants found takers laying -6, but when it went to the key number of 7, Falcons money came in despite running back Michael Turner possibly not playing.

The Cardinals were bet up -9 at St. Louis, bet then quickly bet back to the opener of -8.5. Same thing with Patriots angry rematch with the Jets who opened -10.5, Jets money came in, but quickly bet back to -10.5.

 

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Bettors Backing NFL Road Favorites

Bettors Backing NFL Road Favorites

Bettors Backing NFL Road Favorites

Get ready to watch the men separate themselves from the boys this week in the NFL as the playoff races heat up. It?s the proverbial ?go time? for many teams.

Cincinnati at Oakland

The Bengals are sitting pretty?right now anyway, but they need to keep winning and especially winning games against weak teams.

They head to Oakland this week to face, big surprise, a troubled Raider team. Cincy has been one of this season?s surprises, currently leading the AFC North with records of 7-2 straight up and 6-3 against the spread.

But they?re facing a bit of adversity this week, as the team?s leading rusher, Cedric Benson, is nursing what ESPN is calling a sore abductor muscle. His pain resulted in the team signing recent Kansas City Chiefs castoff RB Larry Johnson. LJ?s attitude wore thin on the Chiefs and his addition already seems to be wearing on Benson. We?ll see how it shakes out.

There have been changes made to the Raiders? starting lineup as well as QB JaMarcus Russell has been demoted while QB Bruce Gradkowski will start in Russell?s place.

In its last nine when an underdog of more than 8-points, Oakland is 6-3 ATS.

Going into Sunday?s game in Oakland, online sportsbooks have the Bengals as a 10-point favorite with an O/U of 36.

As you might expect, the betting action has been one-sided so far in this one. Sportsbook SPORTSBETTING.com is reporting 79% action on the Bengals.

San Diego at Denver

Hey Denver fans, can?t stop hearing the Tom Petty song ?Free Fallin??

After a 6-0 SU and ATS straight to the season, they are currently on an 0-3 SU and ATS roll in their last three?and around the office we have a few side bets going on whether they hit .500 in the next three weeks.

The Broncos? current mini slump has allowed the San Diego Chargers to catch them in the AFC West standings and lo and behold, both 6-3 SU teams play this Sunday.

While QB Kyle Orton helped the quick start, he suffered an ankle injury last week and backup signal-caller Chris Simms, son of Phil, will likely line up behind center on Sunday.

Denver is currently listed at +150 to win the division while San Diego is the favorite at -175.

In the Broncos? last eight home games against the Chargers they have been a productive 6-2 SU, but only 3-2-3 ATS.

Total bettors take note ? Denver has a record of only 1 Over and 9 Unders in their last 10 overall games at Invesco.

Indianapolis at Baltimore

The Indianapolis Colts pulled off a big win last week when they came back to defeat the New England Patriots 35-34.

The win kept Peyton and crew undefeated and created a storm around Pat coach Bill Belichick after a controversial fourth down call.

It doesn?t get any easier this week as Indy is on the road against the Baltimore Ravens; they are a 2-point road favorite (-130 on the moneyline).

In the last eight overall games between the two, the Colts have hold a profitable edge of 5-2-1 ATS.

Baltimore?s been a tough home team, going 7-2 SU and ATS in their last nine at M&T Bank Stadium.

Colt bettors should know that Indy is an ugly 1-6 against the spread the last seven times they have been a favorite of 2-points or less.

Where?s the money going in this one? Bettor?s are backing the Colts, with 68% of all the action coming in on Indy so far..

It should be another great week of NFL action.

 

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NFL total bias: Betting over gets very simple

NFL total bias: Betting over gets very simple

NFL total bias: Betting over gets very simple

Chicks dig the long ball and this NFL season, bettors can dig the over.

The over has a slight advantage against the under this fall, going 74-68 overall.

Last week, we saw offenses break free and light up the score boards at a staggering pace. The over went a solid 9-6 last week, making bettors who wagered on high-scoring games searching for a common thread to build on the success this week.

Don?t worry ? I found it.

Games featuring both quarterbacks passing for at least 175 yards went 9-2 over/under, while games featuring just one or none, all fell below the number. And these aren?t always easy to predict.

Ben Roethlisberger fell just short, passing for 174 yards, but the stat held true, as the Steelers? field-goal fest against the Bengals failed to even come close to the total.

And don?t even ask about Alex Smith, Brady Quinn or JaMarcus Russell. Yeesh.

It sounds simple, but the best way to pick a game to go over the total is to select a pair of teams that are both capable of lighting up the scoreboard. And last week, games that featured a pair of teams with at least mediocre passing games were able to score enough to push the number over the total.

So who can we count on to chuck the pigskin around this weekend? Let?s take a closer look at our passing matchups.

The Colts-Ravens game seems poised for a points explosion. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has passed for at least 175 yards in each game this season prior to last week against the Browns, and Indianapolis depends on the arm of quarterback Peyton Manning to win games.

The Eagles-Bears game also should feature more scoring then a frat house hosting a freshman mixer. Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb averages 240 yards per game and Jay Cutler might be a turnover machine, but he still throws for more than 260 yards per game.

And what game should you stay away from? How about Cincinnati at Oakland.

The Bengals proved last week that they are willing to win ugly. Very ugly. And Oakland claims to run passing plays, but it seems more like the team throws up jump balls and hopes for the best. Also, again with the JaMarcus Russell factor. He's so bad, Bruce Gradkowski is getting loose right now.

So this week, look for the passing game to lead to points, and the over to lead to cash in your wallet.

Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens (+1, 44)

The Colts have scored at least 24 points in three of their past four meetings against the vaunted Ravens defense, including lighting the unit up for 31 in an early-season meeting last year.

The difference this time is that the Ravens offense is poised to put more points up on the board. Joe Flacco is becoming an elite passer and Ray Rice is a fantastic receiver out of the backfield and a threat to go the distance whenever he touches the ball.

The Colts have scored at least 20 points seven times this year and will continue to do the same this week. The only difference is that this time, the Ravens should keep up.

Pick: Over

San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers (-6.5, 41.5)

The 49ers try to win every game in grind-it-out fashion and don?t care about style points. The team has also had great success shutting down high-powered passing attacks such as the Colts and Cardinals, holding both potent aerial games to fewer than 20 points.

The only problem? First name Alex, last name Smith. San Francisco?s offense is woeful and after what the Packers did to a vastly superior offense against the Cowboys last week, do you really think that the 49ers can do a whole lot better?

Green Bay will have to work for their points, but not much the 49ers do will enable them to reach the endzone and push the score over the total.

Pick: Under

Atlanta Falcons at New York Giants (-6.5, 46)

Both these teams love scoring this season, going a combined 11-6-1 over/under this year.

And with Falcons running back Michael Turner injuring his knee last week, expect Atlanta to put the ball in the air even more than normal to try to put points on the board. He should find success against a beleaguered Giants defense that has allowed at least 20 points in four straight games ? all loses.

Expect Eli Manning and receiver Steve Smith to keep clicking, moving the Giants up and down the field and finding the goal line.

Look for the ball to be in the arm and points to be on the board.

Pick: Over

 

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Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (+3, 43)

Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (+3, 43)

Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears (+3, 43)

This is no rematch of the infamous "Fog Bowl,'' although that would explain Bears QB Jay Cutler's recent bout with night blindness.

The "Fish Bowl'' may be more like it with Cutler coming off a five-interception performance and Eagles QB Donovan McNabb returning to play in his hometown.

But unlike the 1988 playoff game, when a fog bank rolled in off of Lake Michigan and kept even the players from seeing the game, these Eagles (5-4) and Bears (4-5) are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether, so it's a bit of a must-win for both sides.

Line movement

This line has held steady at the Eagles -3 with most books offering up -110 juice.

True to their straight-up records, the Eagles are 5-4 ATS this season while the Bears are 4-5 ATS. Coincidentally, both teams have covered in every game they have won.

The total has held steady at 45 since opening. The Eagles have hit the over in seven of their nine games this season.

Injury report

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook will not play after suffering his second concussion in the past three games. Also out for Philly is WR Kevin Curtis (knee) LB Akeem Jordan (Knee) and S Quintin Demps (ankle). CB Sheldon Brown (hamstring) is doubtful.

The Bears will be without LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee) and RB Garrett Wolfe (kidney), while TE Desmond Clark (neck) and S Kevin Payne (back) are doubtful.

Weather or not

The weather is better than one might expect for a November night game at Soldier Field with the temperature in the low-50s at kickoff and down into the low-40s by game's end.

There is a slight chance of rain but the wind is expected to be light at about 6 mph out of the east in the Windy City.

Prime-time picks

Cutler's knack for throwing interceptions this season is well documented, especially since 11 of them have come in his three prime-time performances.

Cutler cemented that statistic with his five picks against the 49ers last Thursday, but he has had 10 days to recover while the Eagles are coming off a cross-country loss at the Chargers Sunday.

At least this will be a familiar trip for McNabb, who is 3-1 straight up against his hometown team at Soldier Field. He played only briefly as a rookie in a 1999 win but led the Eagles to a pair of victories before time ran out on him in last year's loss.

An interesting side bet: Which QB will receive the highest cheer-to-boo ratio from the Chicago fans?

Running on empty

Two teams traditionally known for their balanced offensive attacks have become one-sided in favor of the passing game this season.

While both teams rank in the Top 10 in passing, they are near the bottom of the league in rushing.

The Eagles rank 23rd, but those numbers include the use of Westbrook, who won't be available for this game. He accounted for all but one yard of his team's rushing total against the Chargers. The Eagles will rely on rookie LeSean McCoy to get the ground game going.

The Bears have fallen all the way to 30th, which may explain why there's been so much pressure on Cutler's arm. Running back Matt Forte has been disappointing after a strong rookie season and he won't have his backup in Wolfe available for the game.

D-Day for Jay?

If you're looking for the key matchup or a key mismatch, the Eagles' defensive strengths happen to be the Bears' most glaring weaknesses.

The Eagles? defense ranks tied for second in both interceptions (15) and sacks (29), meaning they should be able to get pressure on Cutler and they know what to do when he makes a mistake.

Many of Cutler's 17 interceptions are the result of a lack of protection so expect the Eagles to throw the kitchen sink at him.

Trendy solutions

The Bears were 15-0 straight up against the Eagles at home until McNabb's rookie season in 1999. The Eagles made it three in a row at Soldier Field before last year's 24-20 loss.

The Bears are 0-3 ATS in primetime games this season, but all of those games were on the road against solid teams - Green Bay, Atlanta and San Francisco.

The Eagles are 2-0 ATS on the road this season when they stay in the same time zone, but 0-2 ATS when they travel outside of it.

 

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NFL Betting: Sunday Night Football

NFL Betting: Sunday Night Football

NFL Betting: Sunday Night Football

A couple of teams in dire need of a victory if they plan on playing into January meet in Chicago when the 4-5 Bears host the 5-4 Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night at Soldier Field (8:20 pm Eastern, NBC).

Earlier this week BetJamaica.com opened Philadelphia as a three-point road favorite at +100 for Sunday's game over Chicago, with the Bears getting the three points at -120. As of Friday morning, we're still listing the pointspread at three, with both teams giving -110.

We're also offering the Eagles at -160 on the BetJamaica.com NFL betting moneyline, with Da Bears getting +140 to win outright.

We also opened the total on this game at 45, and that number had held steady in early betting action.

After pounding the division-rival New York Giants 40-17 three weeks ago, Philly sat at 4?2 and had Dallas coming to town. But the Eagles fell at home to the Cowboys 20-16, then went out to San Diego last Sunday, fell behind 28-9 and eventually lost 31-23. The Eagles outgained the Chargers 462-331, but struggled in the red zone; kicker David Akers made field goals of 18, 25 and 25 yards. And ultimately Philly couldn't cover the pointspread as one-point road dogs on the BetJamaica.com betting line.

The game also managed to go OVER its posted total of 47 with the help of two late Eagles scores.

Still, Philly is only one game back of first-place Dallas in the NFC East. And they're log-jammed in a four-way tie, essentially, with Atlanta, Green Bay and the Giants for the top spot in the NFC Wild Card race.

The Bears started 3-1 this year, but have lost four of five since. Last Thursday Chicago visited San Francisco and lost 10-6, as QB Jay Cutler threw five interceptions. The Bears had their chances, and outgained the Niners 350-216, but in the end couldn't even cover the spread as 3.5-point dogs on the road. And that game never even sniffed its posted total of 43.

So Chicago trails the division-leading Minnesota Vikings by four games in the NFC North, with just seven games to play. And they face an uphill battle in the Wild Card race; at the moment, they're in 10th place in the NFC.

Philly's Donovan McNabb has put up decent enough numbers this season, completing 60% of his passes for 7.7 YPA, with a 12/4 TD/INT ratio and a 95.1 passing rating. But numbers don't always tell the whole story.

Through their first nine games this season, the Eagles are outgaining opponents, on average, by a 352-307 YPG margin, and are outrushing foes, but only by 103-102.

Meanwhile, Chicago's Jay Cutler, the big offseason acquisition that was supposed to solve the Bears' problems at quarterback, has already thrown 17 interceptions this season ? many in disastrous fashion ? after throwing 18 all of last season with Denver. Overall, Cutler has hit on 62% of his throws this year for 7.0 YPA, with 14 TD passes, those 17 INTs, and a very mediocre 76.0 rating.

On the season, the Bears are outgaining opponents, on average, by a 334-314 YPG margin, but are getting outrushed 118-85.

These two teams have met each of the last two seasons, and the Bears have won both games. Last year Chicago beat Philly 24-20 as three-point home favorites in a Week 4 Sunday nighter. And in 2007, the Bears went to The Linc and came away with a 19-16 victory as six-point underdogs.

The Eagles outgained Chicago in that game last September 340-256, but they got stuffed on fourth-and-goal from the Chicago one-yard line late in the game, and the Bears ran out the clock from there. And with help from five first-half touchdowns, that game also topped its posted total of 39.

On the injury front, Philly is without RB Brian Westbrook, who's dealing with post-concussion issues.

After going 3-2 straight up and 4-1 ATS last week, NFL home underdogs are now 16-29 SU and 21-24 vs. the numbers this season.

The totals have trended 7-2 toward the OVERS in Eagles games this season, which have averaged 47 points. Meanwhile, the UNDERS are 5-4 in Bears games, which have averaged 43 points.

 

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BETWEEN THE LINES

BETWEEN THE LINES

BETWEEN THE LINES
THREE REASONS TO LIKE FALCONS-GIANTS OVER (46)

The Falcons have gone over the total in five of their past six games.

The Falcons defense gives up 130 yards rushing and 240 yards passing per game.

The Giants score 25 points a game and give up 22 points per game.

THREE REASONS TO LIKE LIONS-BROWNS UNDER (371/2)

Here are two teams offensively challenged.

The Browns average 8.7 points per game, and the Lions average 15.9.

Unless there are some hijinks, such as special teams scoring or defensive scoring, these teams have little chance of posting more than five touchdowns.

LAST WEEK: 0-2

SEASON: 8-12

 

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JAY KORNEGAY: Ravens should end Colts' run

JAY KORNEGAY: Ravens should end Colts' run

JAY KORNEGAY: Ravens should end Colts' run

Baltimore in good position to gain victory over Indy

LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
It took a last-minute miracle, but Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts kept their winning streak alive last week. In fact, the Colts are working on several streaks.

Indianapolis owns an 18-game regular-season winning streak and is 9-0 for the third time in five years. Manning has led the Colts to five consecutive wins over Baltimore, two on the road.

On the downside, the Colts have failed to cover the spread in three consecutive games. They were dominated by New England a week ago, and staring at near-certain defeat, until pulling out a 35-34 victory.

Las Vegas Hilton sports book director Jay Kornegay said he sees the Ravens stopping the streaking Colts today. The line has fluctuated all week, with Indianapolis a 11/2-point road favorite at some books and the game a pick-em at others.

"We've seen a lot of action on both ends of it," Kornegay said. "It's a much bigger game for the Ravens than it is for the Colts, and the Colts have been doing it with a lot of smoke and mirrors of late.

"I still felt like the Colts lost that game last week, even though they got the win. When the final whistle blew, I still felt like the Patriots were up by 10 points."

The Ravens will be without linebacker Terrell Suggs because of a right knee injury. Suggs, a three-time Pro Bowl pick, will miss his first NFL game in seven years.

Assuming Manning moves the Colts offense as usual, Baltimore needs quarterback Joe Flacco to emerge from a minor slump.

"I think it's a great spot for the Ravens, despite their injuries," Kornegay said. "Manning does kind of own the Ravens, though, and that's the X-factor right there. But I can't go off history."

Kornegay analyzes the rest of today's Week 11 lineup:

? Cleveland at Detroit (-31/2): Believe it or not, this is not going to be the least-bet game on the board. It's a close game as far as the spread is concerned, and it's the first game on the board. The Browns are offensively inept. At least the Lions have a running back, Kevin Smith, who is running hard, and rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford can make some plays. I haven't seen that from Brady Quinn or the Browns. You have to give the edge to the Lions. A lot of books are at 31/2, up from 3, and I agree with that line.

? Buffalo at Jacksonville (-81/2): It's going to be interesting to see how the Bills react to the firing of coach Dick Jauron. It's always a breath of fresh air to change your pace, and in this case change your coach, when you're struggling through the season. It can't get any worse, so you think that's going to help out a little bit. Running back Maurice Jones-Drew is finally coming on and the Jaguars are playing some of their best football.

? Pittsburgh (-10) at Kansas City: You look at the Steelers, and I still think they are one of the top teams in the league despite losing to the Bengals twice. It has been awhile since Kansas City was tough at home. It used to be whenever you had the Chiefs as a home 'dog, you would always play the Chiefs. They did make the right choice by getting rid of Larry Johnson. But quarterback Matt Cassel has been very disappointing and real inconsistent, and now he doesn't have top receiver Dwayne Bowe. But I don't like laying big points with the Steelers, and I don't think it's a real good spot for them.

? Atlanta at New York Giants (-7): If you would have looked at this game two weeks ago and Falcons running back Michael Turner was out, you might have thought that was worth 3 or 31/2 points to the spread. But Jason Snelling came in last week and performed very well as Turner's backup, so it's not worth that much. People continue to bet the Giants, and they are getting some players healthy, but I can't say I would be in favor of laying those points.

? San Francisco at Green Bay (-61/2): All of a sudden, the Packers defense showed up last week and shut down the Cowboys, and I don't think anyone expected that. You can't figure out some of these teams from week to week, and the Packers are one of those teams for me. There was a lot of optimism in Green Bay at the beginning of the season, but Aaron Rodgers is holding onto the ball too much and he's been sacked 41 times. The 49ers have been good on the road.

? Seattle at Minnesota (-11): The Vikings have a huge following now. They are so popular it's ridiculous. Seahawks running back Justin Forsett has a lot of quickness and a lot of moves, and he might give them a boost here. But you have to anticipate the money coming in on the Vikings every week, because of Brett Favre and their success. We've always adjusted the line expecting most of the parlays, smaller bets and ticket counts in favor of Minnesota.

? Washington at Dallas (-11): I don't think this is a good spot for the Redskins after their win against Denver. The 27-17 score was deceiving because of the Broncos' QB situation. I don't think the Washington running attack is back without Clinton Portis. I think the Redskins are going to get stuffed in Dallas.

? New Orleans (-101/2) at Tampa Bay: The Saints failed to cover their past three games, and their defense is starting to show its true colors. The defense hasn't been able to stop anyone, and that's the main reason New Orleans is not covering now. Drew Brees continues to put up some numbers, but the Saints should be concerned about their defense. Rookie QB Josh Freeman fumbled four times last week, but he's making some plays. If he cuts down on some turnovers, the Bucs should be in this game.

? Arizona (-9) at St. Louis: The Cardinals look like one of the better teams in the NFL when they want to do it. Other times, they just turn the light switch off and it's not there. The Rams play real hard. Could you imagine if Steven Jackson was on a good team? He would be awesome. His intensity has propelled the rest of the team to play hard. You just don't know which Arizona team you're going to see. If the Cardinals go through the motions, they're going to be in trouble. I would go with the Rams.

? New York Jets at New England (-101/2): If I were to pick a team out of the AFC to go to the Super Bowl, I would pick the Patriots right now. They are so efficient and they do everything pretty well. Every week Tom Brady is looking better. The Jets still have issues, and rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez is regressing. They have to rely on their defense to stay in the game because Sanchez is not going to make that many plays and he turns the ball over too many times. I can't see the Jets staying close to the Patriots. New England is going to totally forget about last week and prove to everybody it's still one of the top teams.

? Cincinnati (-91/2) at Oakland: Bruce Gradkowski is starting at quarterback, and by benching JaMarcus Russell, that's a big boost for the Raiders. It's a bad spot for the Bengals, but they're lucky to be going to Oakland. The Raiders can at times play really hard at home. If you go in there flat and you give them a little bit of hope, you're in for a dogfight. The Bengals could lay an egg here. Look to the home 'dog.

? San Diego (-31/2) at Denver: This is all revolving around Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton. If Orton was playing, this line would be close to a pick-em. But because he's not playing or doubtful, you're going to see the Chargers favored by 31/2 or 4. The line has been off the board most of the week. Chris Simms hasn't really played since 2006, and he looked rusty last week. I don't think a week of practice is suddenly going to change things for him. This is a tough spot for the Broncos, and I know the Chargers smell blood. These teams are going in opposite directions.

? Philadelphia (-3) at Chicago: These two teams drive everybody crazy, not only the bettors but the bookmakers, because they're so inconsistent. The Eagles looked horrible in the first half last week at San Diego, then they found a rhythm and moved the ball. Eagles running back LeSean McCoy is getting better, and they just have more weapons. After losing that game to the Chargers, this is a huge game for the Eagles.

 

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Inconsistency has sapped power from NFC East

Inconsistency has sapped power from NFC East

Inconsistency has sapped power from NFC East

Division's top three teams favored today; AFC South looking formidable

Every year when discussing the NFL, we assign an unofficial title to a group of teams perceived to be residing in the league's best division. That banner might be blank this year.

The NFC East has laid claim to the crown in recent years, but the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles have been inconsistent.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants odds director Tony Sinisi said Tony Romo and the Cowboys are rising and the Giants falling.

"The Cowboys have the biggest upside. They have shown flashes of brilliance. All the pieces are in place," Sinisi said. "The Giants are suffering a serious illness. My perception of them changed when they were able to make an ordinary San Diego Chargers defense look formidable."

LVSC senior oddsmaker Mike Seba sees light at the end of the tunnel for Philadelphia.

"The Eagles' schedule has been extremely tough, with two West Coast trips and the time frames for when they caught tough teams," Seba said. "(Running back) Brian Westbrook is always hurt, so that's not a determining factor for me. I think they'll be OK."

The Giants, coming off a bye, are 7-point home favorites over Atlanta today, and New York has been getting bet throughout the week.

It might be a rivalry game, but Dallas would be hard pressed to lose to the woeful Washington Redskins. The Cowboys are 11-point home favorites.

The Eagles, 3-point favorites at Chicago, will be looking to harass Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who has a penchant for throwing the football to the wrong-colored jerseys.

As for which division ranks as the best, Seba casts his vote for a new contender.

"The AFC North features some very good teams, but with the Cleveland Browns weighing on everyone like an anchor, I'll side with the AFC South," he said. "On any given Sunday, all four teams -- Indianapolis, Houston, Jacksonville and now Tennessee -- are capable of being live."

It's that time of year when a certain proposition wager hits the board around town: Will a team go unbeaten?

At the M Resort, the New Orleans Saints (9-0) are plus-375 for betting "Yes" and minus-450 for "No."

Mike Colbert, the M Resort sports book director, said the Saints' schedule looks favorable, with two high-profile games on the horizon and already on the betting board.

The Saints are 3-point home favorites over New England on Nov. 30 and 7-point home favorites over Dallas on Dec. 19.

"As for the Colts, it may be a moot point after (today's) visit to Baltimore, but if they win, we'll throw up a Colts unbeaten prop this week," Colbert said.

Indianapolis-Baltimore is an intriguing game, with the line ranging from Colts minus-11/2 to pick 'em at Las Vegas books.

Peyton Manning and the Colts have handled adversity and found ways to win games they had no business winning, specifically last week against New England and at Miami on Sept. 21.

"The injuries on defense and the young wide receiving corps will catch up with Indianapolis at some point," Colbert said.

I've stuck my neck out like an ostrich this past week on "Sportsbook Radio," claiming the Oakland Raiders will give the Cincinnati Bengals all they can handle today. The Bengals are 91/2-point road favorites.

Let's take it to the next level and put my neck directly in the noose. Oakland (plus-375 on the money line) will beat the Bengals outright!

The Raiders remain a laughingstock, but they get the Bengals coming off back-to-back AFC North wins over Baltimore and Pittsburgh. The Bengals are depleted at running back, and the cross-country travel is a detrimental factor.

I have no clue where the points will come from for Oakland, though the move to start Bruce Gradkowski at quarterback will help. Sebastian Janikowski might boot six field goals.

If Cincinnati boat races the Raiders, I'll be residing in my own personal black hole this week. If I win, I look like a genius. If I lose, everyone laughs at me.

 

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Will certain NFL teams bounce back in Week 11?

Will certain NFL teams bounce back in Week 11?

Will certain NFL teams bounce back in Week 11?


Last week saw a number of professionals football teams lose or play poorly. The New England Patriots are the case study for this week, having to overcome an excruciating loss and arguably coach?s miscalculation. Coaches Rex Ryan and Josh McDaniels have gone from looking like the next Vince Lombardi to Rich Kotite in just weeks, as their teams seek a win. Atlanta?s season is going the wrong direction and the Giants have not won Oct.11. Dallas went from being to team on the move in the NFC to almost being shutout, how will they respond against division foe. The Colts and Ravens were beatable last week, and go head to head trying to get back in groove of playing best football.

Indianapolis at Baltimore 1:00E CBS

After rallying to top the Patriots Sunday night, Indianapolis? perfect record is still intact, having now set its sights on home field advantage in the playoffs. The Colts (9-0, 5-4 ATS) begin a two-game road trip in Baltimore, looking to extend a 7-1-1 ATS stretch on the road. The average score in this season?s four wins has been 32.7-12.0. Baltimore (5-4, 6-3 ATS) comes in off the Monday night game in Cleveland, and is riding a stretch of 10-3 ATS in its previous 13 as hosts. Only three of those games were as the home underdog however, and the Ravens are 2-1 SU and ATS in those. The Colts have won six straight games in this series, including three over the last two seasons, and are 5-1 ATS in that span. Indy has scored 26 points per game on the vaunted Ravens? defense in those contests.

Keys to the Game-

This isn?t the same Baltimore defense from earlier in the decade and Peyton Manning has stayed away from trouble and picked the Ravens apart. Nobody ever runs really well on Baltimore?s defense, as noted by 3.5 yards per carry (3rd), however using Joseph Addai to keep the Ravens off-balance in the run and passing game opens up other possibilities. Indianapolis is 6-0 ATS in road games off a home win and no-cover as a favorite and will look to stop Ravens run game and make Joe Flacco a pocket passer, whose been sacked 20 times.

The Ravens will be without LB Terrell Suggs, which means DC Greg Mattison has to be innovative to create doubt or hesitation in Manning?s mind. The blueprint has been out there, run the ball on the Colts and take advantage of all scoring opportunities to limit the Indianapolis offense. With three distinctly different running backs, find the one that troubles the Colts defense the most. The Birds are 12-2 ATS after allowing 100 or less passing yards in their last game and have to bracket TE Dallas Clark, taking away one of Manning?s favorite targets.

Power Line ? Baltimore by 2
? Indianapolis covers
Sportsbook.com Line ? Indianapolis -1.5, 44

Atlanta at N.Y. Giants 1:00E FOX

New York (5-4 SU&ATS) has had two weeks to sit and dwell on what has become a four-game losing streak, and another setback against Atlanta in Week 11 would mark the longest skid since 2004, Tom Coughlin?s first year with the team. It would also mark the fifth straight home loss to the Falcons, both SU and ATS. The Giants are still in the hunt in the NFC East, owning a win over the division leading Cowboys already, but are facing a schedule which features five out of seven games against bonafide playoff contenders. They are just 2-4 SU and 2-3-1 ATS coming out of the bye week under Coughlin. Atlanta (5-4, 6-3 ATS) plays its second straight road game after losing at Carolina, before heading home for its next three contests. The Falcons are 7-0 ATS as underdogs in November vs. opponent off back-to-back losses.

Keys to the Game-

Atlanta knew coming into the season they had a few defensive deficiencies, but they would have never guessed they would be ranked 25th against the run and 28th against the pass. This week they have to beat the Giants at the point of attack and disguise coverage?s to protect corners. With no Michael Turner, Jason Snelling and possibly Jerious Norwood have to be effective, especially for third down runs and in the red zone. The Falcons are 11-27 ATS vs. good offensive teams scoring 24 or more points a game in the second half of season and need the Matty Ice from last season and earlier this campaign and not the one that has 10 interceptions in last five games.

With Atlanta?s poor run defense, the Giants should bludgeon the Birds for four quarters in a test of manhood, a Coughlin specialty. The New York run defense has been up and down and not having to face Turner, who was hitting his stride, should be a big help. The G-Men are 14-5 ATS after playing a game at home over the last three seasons, in part because defensive line has been able to create constant pressure on the quarterback. This is imperative against Atlanta with a weakened secondary.

Power Line ? Giants by 6
?Atlanta covers
Sportsbook.com Line ? Giants -7, 46

Washington at Dallas 1:00E FOX

Dallas (6-3, 5-4 ATS) returns home after a two-game road trip with the NFC East Division lead in hand and getting ready to face Washington and Oakland, a pair of teams that have combined for five wins in 2009. Dallas is 14-3 SU and 11-6 ATS when hosting Washington since 1992, but overall the series has been dominated by underdogs, 14-9 SU and 18-5 ATS in the last 23 meetings. The Cowboys have struggled to cover in the heavy favorite role under Wade Phillips, despite sparkling 8-0 SU record as double-digit chalk, they are just 3-5 ATS. They are also just 7-15 ATS in previous divisional games, including 3-8 ATS at home. Dallas is 6-3 ATS after losing in Green Bay. The Redskins (2-7 ATS) are 3-6 after upsetting Denver at home last Sunday, and have covered the Vegas number in just three of their last 17 games overall.

Keys to the Game-

This is a winnable game if Washington plays intelligently. On defense, they are among the best in winning first down and have to maintain that edge, forcing Dallas to throw. In passing situations, bombard the Cowboys tackles, with Mark Colombo out and Flozell Adams looking like he could be timed with hour glass in pass drop-backs last week. The Washington secondary can?t suckered into being out of position by double moves and pump fakes. The Skins are 9-1 ATS vs. passing teams averaging 260 or more passing yards a game after the midpoint of the season. On offense, keep honest down and distances like they did last week and Jason Campbell has to throw with same confidence and readiness as he showed when pressured by the Broncos.

Coach Wade Phillips receives plenty of heat; however he didn?t pick the offensive coordinator and Jason Garrett has run the Dallas offense like he has the Patriots team of 2007, as the running backs have taken 30 handoffs in last two contests. Dallas is second to Tennessee in yards per carry at 5.1, run the ball! The fact is Tony Romo is a far more effective quarterback with a running game and the passing game opens up for the Boys when they commit. Santana Moss could be headed to the Hall of Fame if he played against everyone else like he does against Dallas. The Cowboys move to 10-1 ATS after a double digit loss if they put the clamps in Moss.

Power Line ? Dallas by 12
Forecaster? Washington covers
Sportsbook.com Line ? Dallas -11, 41.5

N.Y. Jets at New England 4:15E CBS

The budding rivalry between the Jets and Patriots picked up some intensity in Week 2 when New York won at home. This time around, it?s New England (6-3, 5-4 ATS) that gets to play the role as host. The light switch might have gone on for the Patriots in that 16-9 loss, as since that point, they?ve gone on a tear, 5-2 SU & ATS while scoring 33 points per game. Still, it will be interesting to see their reaction after the meltdown loss to the Colts. New England will be looking to stem the tide of 3-9 ATS record at home when hosting the Jets. As a divisional host, Belichick?s team is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven as well. The Jets (4-5 ATS) are 4-5 after losing to Jacksonville, and three of their losses have come in divisional play. Dating back to mid-?07, New York is 5-1 ATS on the road vs. AFC East rivals.

Keys to the Game ?

Mark Sanchez has regressed at various points this season and won?t see the same vanilla defense he faced the last time he saw the Patriots uniforms. The old adage of players needing to make plays falls directly into Sanchez?s lap. The Jets are 16-7-1 ATS as division away dogs and have to attempt to win the battle of field position, be it by special teams or forcing turnovers. Wes Welker missed the first matchup, he must be contained or the schwarmerei about the Jets will continue.

Laurence Maroney's fumble near the goal line was important play last week and he played little after the miscue. The New England running game wasn?t the same afterwards, which helped fuel the Colts comeback. Maroney or some Patriots running back has to carry the pigskin and allow them to control the line of scrimmage. Welker is so important to New England?s passing game, since he opens up the other levels. If the former Texas Tech star has eight or more catches, Pats cruise. No matter what has been said, the Patriots defense has been slighted by their head coach. It?s up to the players and defensive coaches to rebuild confidence and make stops, preferably three and outs, which bring back the mojo. New England is 26-10 ATS revenging a same season loss against opponent

Power Line ? New England by 13
Consensus ? Jets covers
Sportsbook.com Line ? New England -10.5, 45

San Diego at Denver 4:15E CBS

For the second straight season, San Diego (6-3, 4-5 ATS) let Denver (6-3 SU&ATS) out to a comfortable lead in the AFC West Division. Once again, the Chargers have reeled the Broncos back in, and have pulled even as the teams prepare to meet on Sunday. Denver owns a head-to-head victory in San Diego already, so another victory could go a long way to clinching a first division crown since 2005. Of late though, it is the Chargers who have been playing well in their trips to Mile High, having covered three straight while posting 2-1 record. If you recall last year?s meeting, the Broncos prevailed in a one-point game gift wrapped by referee Ed Hochuli?s botched fumble call. That game will surely be reflected on this week, as will Denver?s 1-8 ATS record at home vs. AFC West foes since 2006. The straight up is 21-1-4 against the spread.

Keys to the Game-

It appears Chris Simms will get the start for Denver, who looked rustier than a 1974 Chevy Vega. Though coach McDaniels has assured the game plan won?t change with Simms, he?s going to have to be more accurate on passes 15 or more yards down the field to take advantage of his talented receivers and keep San Diego from crowding the line of scrimmage. The offense line has to start taking charge again. Denver averaged 132 yards rushing in six-game winning streak and 71yards per contest in last three losses. The offense has to start controlling the clock again with the defense wearing out. The Broncos are 4-13 ATS vs. passing teams with a completion percentage of 61 percent or better and to reverse that trend they have to do what they did the first matchup, get to Phillip Rivers.

In the first game, San Diego lost the special teams battle with two Eddie Royal kick returns and the offensive line could not keep Rivers in vertical position. Both of these elements have to be addressed, especially against angry and desperate home team. The Chargers are 13-3 ATS after two or more consecutive wins over the last three seasons and the defense can?t get lazy. Last week against Eagles in their comeback and previous game with Denver, the secondary and linebackers took terrible angles in surrendering too many yards after the catch. If San Diego tackles effectively, they might be one first place all by themselves at the end of the day.

Power Line ? San Diego by 6
Sportsbook.com Line ? San Diego -4, 43

 

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AFC South Showdown

AFC South Showdown

AFC South Showdown



Week 11 of the NFL season closes out with a tough test for bettors as Tennessee (3-6 straight up, 4-5 against the spread) and Houston (5-4 SU, ATS) gear up for ESPN?s Monday Night Football at 8:35 p.m. EST. Gamblers must decide whether to put their money down on a team that has won three straight games like the Titans or take a chance on a team that is coming off of a tough loss and doesn?t have all their weapons like the Texans.

If we?re going on what the sportsbooks think, then the Texans are your play as they?re listed as 4 ?-point home favorites with a total of 48. Sportsbook.com shows that 58 percent of the money they are seeing has bettors taking the Titans to cover the spread. Meanwhile, a mindboggling 97 percent of the action on the money line is on Tennessee to win outright for a plus-180 return (risk $100 to win $180).

Bodog?s sportsbook manager, Richard Gardner, helps explain why the line is set as it is. ?Obviously when creating a number on a game we take into consideration how a team is currently playing. That means we?re taking into account public perception, but only for a half-point to one-point as the line already reflects that a team is hot at the moment.?

So are the Titans really worth that kind of action?

After the first six games of the season, Tennessee would have been avoided like Amy Winehouse at a nudist colony. The Titans opened the year with six straight losses with Kerry Collins under center, which is shocking since they were 13-3 the season before.

Titans head coach Jeff Fisher was pushed into starting Vince Young at quarterback by owner Bud Adams during the bye week. Tennessee has jumped out to three straight wins with Young running the offense on the field. The former Longhorn has completed 71 percent of his passes for 507 yards and two touchdowns during this win streak.



Tennessee has also been fairly effective at moving the chains on third down, converting 52 percent of those opportunities since the open date. Young, however, can?t lay claim to those conversions with his arm as he?s completed 10 of his 19 passes on third down. That?s why they?ve been relying on Chris Johnson to keep the offense going.

Johnson has been a force to be reckoned with over the last three games. He?s carried the ball 75 times for 495 rushing yards and six touchdowns during this stretch.

Despite the strong efforts of Johnson and Young, Bruce Marshall believes the winning starts on the other side of the ball. ?More than Young, the fact the Titans have been getting healthier on defense has been a big boost. Remember, Tennessee was reduced to a pair of rookie CBs in October, including that disaster at New England, but has been getting healthier in the secondary; over the last two weeks, Cortland Finnegan, Vincent Fuller, and Rod Hood all have recorded interceptions TDs.?

?Young has not hurt the team and been an upgrade from this year's version of Kerry Collins, but Johnson's long-distance threat is really what makes the offense tick.? Marshall continues, ?The bye week after the NE loss came at a good time, too; psychologically, the Titans were more easily able to put that 0-6 start behind them and start anew after the bye week. Credit also goes to Jeff Fisher for that, and keeping the troops together after that disastrous start.?

Tennessee?s defense will get a chance to show what they can do against the Texans. Houston went into its last meeting against the Colts knowing they were going to be without the talented tight end Owen Daniels. And while they held their own, the Texans still wound up losing to Indy as 7 ?-point road pups, 20-17.

Since Daniels is out for the year, Andre Johnson will be expected to pick up more of the catches now. Johnson had collected 10 receptions for 103 yards, but no scores ? it?s his fourth straight game without a touchdown.

Marshall believes that the Texans must get their stopping unit in gear to be successful on the attack. ?More than anything, Houston's improved play has been a result of its defense tightening the screws. No one has run effectively vs. this defense in over a month, a significant change from the first few weeks of the season. Check out the recent trend of ?unders? in its games; Schaub is able to run a bit more conservative offensive attack and slow down the pace of the game because his defense hasn't been putting him in tough holes the past several games (although they did have to rally from 3-13 at halftime vs. the Colts),? He concludes, ?Notice in the Indy game how Peyton Manning basically abandoned the run, especially in the first half when throwing 40 mostly short passes. Opponents are starting to alter their gameplans based upon the Texas' new-found ability to stop the run, which is the real key to this team making a playoff push.?

Houston has been average at best when playing at Reliant Stadium, going 2-2 SU and 1-3 ATS at home. The Titans are just 1-4 SU and 2-3 ATS so far on games outside of Nashville.

The home team has often walked away with the win in this game as evidenced by a 6-4 SU mark, but just 5-5 ATS. The ?over? has been the top play in this series as it has gone 8-2 in those 10 head-to-head meetings.

If you have been following season long trends, then you?re well aware that the ?over? has gone 8-3 this season. However, the ?under? is on a two-game streak. The road team is 6-5 SU on Monday night this season, with the visitors going 8-3 ATS for our purposes

 

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Trend Setters - Week 11


Now that we've hit the second half of the NFL season, more tangible facts are coming to light regarding most of the league. This week, we'll take a look at five games that own plenty of valuable trends, including the AFC showdown in Baltimore between the Ravens and Colts.

Colts (-1, 44) at Ravens - 1:00 PM EST

Indianapolis remains one of the two unbeaten teams in the NFL at 9-0, after squeaking by New England last week, 35-34. The Ravens, meanwhile, are still alive in the AFC Wild Card race following their Monday night shutout of the Browns.

The Colts have owned the Ravens recently, winning each of the last six meetings, dating back to 2002. In fact, Indianapolis outscored Baltimore by an average of 14.6 ppg in those six victories, including a 31-3 blowout last season. The Colts have struggled off a close win, going 1-6 ATS on the road since 1998 off a 1-3 point victory. However, over the last six seasons, the Colts are 7-3 to the 'over' coming off a 1-3 point triumph.

The Ravens have fared well under John Harbaugh off a SU win, going 12-5 ATS since the start of last season. Baltimore has burned tickets following a solid defensive effort, compiling a 1-5 ATS mark since 2001 after allowing three points or less in its last game.

Falcons at Giants (-6 ?, 46) - 1:00 PM EST

New York returns from the bye, as the Giants try to snap a four-game skid. Things were rosy for Tom Coughlin's team at 5-0, but the wheels have fallen off the wagon with an 0-4 SU/ATS skid. The Falcons, meanwhile, have dropped four of five games away from the Georgia Dome.

Atlanta is a solid 6-0 ATS the last six on the road off a SU road loss, including a cover at New Orleans three weeks ago. Under Mike Smith, the Falcons are 9-4 ATS against an opponent off a non-division game.

The Giants were pointspread gold each of the last two seasons, and even through the first five games, but New York has taken a severe nose-dive. The G-Men are just 2-4-1 ATS the last seven games as a home favorite, including the losses to the Cardinals and Chargers.

Browns at Lions (-3 ?, 38 ?) - 1:00 PM EST

This may be one of the biggest dog games the entire season, possibly passing the St. Louis/Detroit matchup three weeks ago at Ford Field. However, if it's on the board, there's a chance to cash in, even if it's a pair of teams with two combined wins.

The Lions were favored in the Rams game, but St. Louis won that game as a road underdog. Detroit is coming off a 27-10 loss at Minnesota, which actually sets up well for Jim Schwartz's team. The Lions are 8-3 ATS the last 11 games after scoring ten points or less in their previous contest. Detroit has struggled at home against the AFC, going 3-6 ATS the last nine, including an 0-2 ATS mark last season.

Not surprising, but the Browns are in several play-against spots this week. Cleveland is in non-cover mode the week before they take on their Ohio brethren, Cincinnati. The Browns are 1-9 ATS the last five seasons prior to a matchup with the Bengals, including a blowout loss at Baltimore in Week 3. Cleveland was shut out Monday against the Ravens, and is 3-7 ATS after a game in which they scored seven points or less.

Redskins at Cowboys (-11, 41 ?) - 1:00 PM EST

Washington picked up only its third victory of the season on Sunday, rallying to beat Denver at home. Dallas stubbed its toe in Green Bay, falling to the Packers, 17-7. The Cowboys still own first place in the NFC East, facing the Redskins for the first time this season.

The Cowboys have been profitable as a home favorite since the end of last season, going 7-2 ATS, including a 3-1 ATS mark in '09. Dallas does own several negative trends, however, in this contest. In Wade Phillips' career, the Cowboys' head coach is 1-9 ATS against division opponents off a SU underdog win. Despite beating the Eagles two weeks ago on Sunday night, Dallas is just 3-9 ATS the last 12 games against NFC East opponents.

The Redskins are 2-2-1 ATS as an underdog this season, which is thankfully better than the 0-4 ATS mark when laying points. Under Jim Zorn, the Redskins are 2-8 ATS against an opponent that scored 15 points or less in their last game.

Cardinals (-9, 47) at Rams - 4:15 PM EST

Arizona is slowly pulling away in the NFC West, after finishing off a season sweep of Seattle last Sunday. The Cards sit atop the division at 6-3, while winning all four of their road games. The Rams did pick up a cover this past week in a five-point loss to undefeated New Orleans, but St. Louis is just 1-8 this season.

The Cardinals have capitalized off a SU win under Ken Whisenhunt, going 11-6 ATS the last 17 following a victory. Arizona is also coming off a high-scoring game, which plays into its favor. The Cards are 12-1 ATS dating back to last season off a contest in which 50 or more points were scored.

The Rams may have covered last week, but St. Louis is still a good 'fade' play. The Rams are 4-11 ATS the last 15 at home against divisional opponents, while putting up a 3-8 ATS mark the last 11 games as a home underdog of at least seven points.

 

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Total Talk - Week 11

Total Talk - Week 11

Total Talk - Week 11

Week 10 Recap
The scoreboard operator was working hard last week, as the ?over? prevailed with a 9-6 record. Five the six that went ?under? the number also cashed first-half ?under? tickets for players too. The lone exception was the Kansas City-Oakland matchup out West, which saw the Chiefs own a 13-10 lead at the break. Like clockwork, the Raiders were blanked in the final 30 minutes, and lost 16-10. For the second straight week and third time this season, the Monday Night Football showdown went ?under? the number. On the year, the ?over? stands at 76-68-2 (53%).

Thursday Night Trend

The Dolphins knocked off the Panthers 24-17 on Thursday and the combined 41 points fell 'under' the closing number of 42 points. Including the season opener between the Steelers and Titans, the 'under' has now gone 3-0 on Thursday this season. The short week usually has teams focusing on defense first, and it's showed so far. The average score in the three games has totaled an average of 26.6 points.

Next week is Thanksgiving, which has three games on the docket:

Green Bay at Detroit
Oakland at Dallas
N.Y. Giants at Denver

On paper, most would probably agree that all three of these contests wouldn't be classified as shootouts.

Fifty-Plus

The Saints and Buccaneers clash at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday and the oddsmakers opened the total at 51. The line seems fair, considering New Orleans is averaging a league-best 36.8 PPG, and its defense has added seven scores through nine games as well. Plus, the Saints face a Tampa defense that is ranked second worst in scoring (28.4 PPG).

After starting the year strong defensively, the Saints have surrendered 27, 34, 27, 20 and 23 points in the last five games. Tampa Bay isn't an offensive juggernaut by any means but it has posted 38 and 23 in the last two weeks, and Raheem Morris' defense is very opportunistic as well.

Even though the statistics on paper can justify an 'over' play, gamblers should be weary of the 50-spot the books posted. So far this year, there have been seven games that featured totals of 50 points or more and the 'under' has gone 5-2 (71%) in those contests. New Orleans has been featured in four of those games and the totals went 2-2.

We're still a week away, but the Saints host the Patriots in Week 12 on MNF and the total is expected to be the highest of the year. "That total should come out between 51 and 53 and we're expecting heavy 'over' betting that could push it up as high as 54 or 55," said betED.com Sportsbook Manager Randy Scott.

Perfect at Home

As the second-half of the regular season continues, total players can start to identify trends for certain clubs on either the road or at home. After 10 weeks, three teams have seen all of their games go 'under' or 'over' at home.

Jacksonville has watched the 'over' go 4-0 at home this year. This Sunday, Buffalo visits the Sunshine State with a new coach, Perry Fewell. The Bills will start Ryan Fitzpatrick (240 yards, 2 INTs) behind center and he's been horrible this year. The 'under' has gone 2-0 in both of his starts. Looking the four home games for the Jaguars, the first two were clear-cut 'over' tickets against Arizona (17-31) and Tennessee (37-17) but the last two against the Rams (23-20) and Chiefs (24-21) were sweat shops. The Bills have seen the 'under' go 3-2 on the road. The number (43) seems a little high, considering these two have played the last three years and the totals were 35.5, 37 and 37.

It's easy to sit here and knock St. Louis for its 0-4 record at home this year but you have to look at its schedule. Could anybody else have done better against the Packers (17-36), Vikings (10-38), Colts (6-42) and Saints (23-28)? The results have produced an 'over' record of 4-0 and it could be 5-0 when Arizona comes to town on Sunday. The Cardinals have played better on the road (4-0 SU, 4-0 ATS) this year and the recent meetings are scary. Arizona has put up 34, 34, 48, 34 and 34 in the last five versus the Rams. The 'over' has only gone 3-2 during this stretch because St. Louis has had trouble matching points. Will the trend continue?

The Denver Broncos have surrendered 30, 28 and 27 points in their last three games but the defense is still only giving up 16.8 PPG on the season, which is ranked fourth in the NFL. At home, the number dips slightly to 15.3 PPG and could be lower if they didn't give up 21 points to Pittsburgh in a MNF loss on Nov. 9. We note this game because the Steelers were the first team all year to score on the Broncos at home in the second-half. Despite Pitt's outburst, the 'under' still cashed. On the year, the 'under' is now 4-0 from Invesco Field at Mile High. This week, some books put up a tentative number of 42 against the Chargers but that could dip because Denver QB Kyle Orton might not suit up. Six of the last seven in this series has gone 'over' the total, including their first meeting this season on Oct. 19, which saw three special teams touchdowns help the cause.

MNF Shootout in Houston?

The Texans and Titans have been known to light up the scoreboard whenever they tangle and their first go 'round on Sept. 20 this season proved that. Houston captured a 34-31 decision over Tennessee and the game was 'over' by halftime (24-24). Six of the last seven in this series has gone 'over' the number and it appears the oddsmakers have adjusted accordingly for this week (48).

Houston was known as a solid 'over' play last year but this season has been different. The Texans have watched the 'under' go 6-3 and surprisingly the team has only put more than 30 points on one occasion, the aforementioned win over the Titans.

The Titans' offense struggled during their 0-6 start, yet the team has posted 30, 34 and 41 in three games with Vince Young behind center. The gun slinger has been anything but one, yet he's been smart (1 INT) with the football and elusive (1 Sack) during this run. Chris Johnson deserves all the credit for Tennessee's explosion. The running back has totaled 631 yards and 6 TDs over the last three.

The 'under' has cashed in two straight under the MNF lights, but the 'over' is still 8-3 on the season.

Fearless Predictions:

Last week talked about how we?re getting close and unfortunately I couldn?t have been more wrong. The Best Bets fell to 9-9 (-90) on the season and we couldn?t even cash a teaser. That mark fell to 2-7 (-500) and is really making us believe that teasers are sucker bets or perhaps we just suck. Based on one-unit plays, we?re down $590 and the second-half of the season is dwindling. As always, press, pass or fade. Good Luck!

Best Over: Jets-Patriots 45

Best Under: Jaguars-Bills 42.5

Three-Team Total Teaser (9-Point, +100)
Over Jets-Patriots 36
Under Jaguars-Bills 49.5
Under Saints-Buccaneers 60

 

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LVSC Rankings - Bengals roar

LVSC Rankings - Bengals roar

LVSC Rankings - Bengals roar


Las Vegas Sports Consultants has released its latest NFL power rankings with some musical chairs played in the top five. The biggest story came from out of the AFC North, as the Bengals made the largest leap.

Cincinnati jumped from 12th to 6th after pulling off the season sweep of Pittsburgh, 18-12 at Heinz Field. The Bengals own two huge tiebreakers over the Steelers and Ravens inside the division, as Cincinnati sits at 7-2. Marvin Lewis' team heads out to the west coast this Sunday to battle the woeful Raiders.

Back at the top this week are the New Orleans Saints, after staving off the Rams, 28-23. Sean Payton's squad has had a problem covering big numbers the last three weeks, going 0-3 ATS, all as double-digit 'chalk.' Despite not covering, the Saints are atop the rankings for the fifth straight week. New Orleans heads back on the road as a long favorite this Sunday at Tampa Bay.

The Patriots stayed put in the second spot despite the one-point setback at Indianapolis. Bill Belichick made headlines all week for trying to get two yards on fourth down from deep in his own territory, and ultimately the Pats were stopped. New England remains atop the AFC East at 6-3, but may have cost themselves a first-round bye with that risky decision. The Pats return home to host the 4-5 Jets this Sunday as double-digit favorites.

The Colts came back from the late deficit against the Patriots, but it only moved Indianapolis up one spot (fourth to third). Indy remains unbeaten at 9-0, but similarly to New Orleans, the Colts are 0-3 ATS the last three games. Indianapolis hits the road this week for another test, heading to Baltimore.

The Vikings climbed from fifth to fourth after blowing out the Lions, 27-10. Minnesota is in the midst of three straight home contests, hosting the Seahawks this week, followed by the Bears next Sunday. The Vikings are currently one game behind the Saints for the top record in the NFC, but are in the driver's seat for at least a first-round bye in the playoffs.

The Steelers have work to do after falling to the Bengals for a second time this season. Pittsburgh, who fell two spots from third to fifth, can still win the AFC North, but will need Cincinnati to slip up down the line. The Steelers look to rebound this week, traveling to Kansas City as ten-point road favorites.

The Cowboys and Chargers are tied for the seventh position, but both teams are there due to different circumstances. Dallas dropped from the sixth spot after losing at Green Bay, 17-7. The Cowboys still lead the NFC East at 6-3 despite the defeat, as Dallas comes back home to host Washington. San Diego has quietly won four straight, including an eight-point victory over Philadelphia. The Bolts head to Denver this Sunday, looking to take over for first place in the AFC West.

Below is the LVSC NFL Power Rankings for Week 11.

LVSC NFL Power Rankings - Week 11
Rank Team Last Week Rating
1 New Orleans 1 142.3
2 New England 2 142.2
3 Indianapolis 4 142.1
4 Minnesota 5 141.7
5 Pittsburgh 3 141.3
6 Cincinnati 12 139.7
7 Dallas 6 139.6
7 San Diego 10 139.6
9 Baltimore 9 139.4
10 Philadelphia 7 139.3
11 NY Giants 8 139.2
12 Arizona 13 139.0
13 Atlanta 11 138.0
14 Green Bay 16 137.2
15 Houston 15 136.4
16 NY Jets 17 135.3
17 Denver 14 135.0
17 San Francisco 18 135.0
19 Tennessee 20 134.6
20 Carolina 22 134.2
21 Miami 20 134.0
22 Chicago 19 133.8
23 Jacksonville 24 133.7
24 Seattle 23 132.2
25 Washington 26 130.5
26 Buffalo 25 129.2
27 Kansas City 27 129.0
28 Tampa Bay 28 127.4
29 St. Louis 29 126.3
30 Detroit 30 125.6
31 Oakland 30 125.5
32 Cleveland 32 125.2

 

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DUNKEL INDEX

DUNKEL INDEX

Today's NFL Picks
Philadelphia at Chicago
The Eagles look to take advantage of a Chicago team that is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games as an underdog. Philadelphia is the pick (-3) according to Dunkel, which has the Eagles favored by 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-3). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Time Posted: 11:30 p.m. EST (11/18)
Game 407-408: Cleveland at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 115.543; Detroit 120.318
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 5; 35
Vegas Line: Detroit by 3 1/2; 38
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-3 1/2); Under
Game 409-410: Buffalo at Jacksonville
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 124.031; Jacksonville 129.807
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville by 6; 40
Vegas Line: Jacksonville by 9; 43
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (+9); Under
Game 411-412: Pittsburgh at Kansas City
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 137.675; Kansas City 126.321
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 11 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 10; 40
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-10); Over
Game 413-414: Indianapolis at Baltimore
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 141.294; Baltimore 142.210
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1; 47
Vegas Line: Indianapolis by 1; 44
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+1); Over
Game 415-416: Atlanta at NY Giants
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 135.138; NY Giants 134.398
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1; 43
Vegas Line: NY Giants by 7; 46
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (+7); Under
Game 417-418: San Francisco at Green Bay
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 128.529; Green Bay 135.589
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 7; 40
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 6 1/2; 42
Dunkel Pick: Green Bay (-6 1/2); Under
Game 419-420: Seattle at Minnesota
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 125.828; Minnesota 137.314
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 11 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Minnesota by 10 1/2; 46
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-10 1/2); Under
Game 421-422: Washington at Dallas
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 126.798; Dallas 138.917
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 12; 47
Vegas Line: Dallas by 10 1/2; 41
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (-10 1/2); Over
Game 423-424: New Orleans at Tampa Bay
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 140.560; Tampa Bay 131.674
Dunkel Line: New Orleans by 9; 48
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 11 1/2; 51
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+11 1/2); Under
Game 425-426: Arizona at St. Louis
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 132.391; St. Louis 123.721
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 8 1/2; 49
Vegas Line: Arizona by 9 1/2; 46 1/2
Dunkel Pick St. Louis (+9 1/2); Over
Game 427-428: NY Jets at New England
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 133.917; New England 145.321
Dunkel Line: New England by 11 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: New England by 10 1/2; 45
Dunkel Pick: New England (-10 1/2); Under
Game 429-430: Cincinnati at Oakland
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati 132.104; Oakland 124.067
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 8; 40
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 10; 36
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (+10); Over
Game 431-432: San Diego at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego 133.307; Denver 136.545
Dunkel Line: Denver by 3; 39 1/2
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A
Game 433-434: Philadelphia at Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 137.920; Chicago 129.547
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 8 1/2; 49
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 3; 45
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-3); Over

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Time Posted: 11:30 p.m. EST (11/18)
Game 435-436: Tennessee at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 134.417; Houston 136.049
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1 1/2; 50
Vegas Line: Houston by 5; 48
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (+5); Over

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19
Time Posted: 11:30 p.m. EST (11/18)
Game 305-306: Miami at Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 135.151; Carolina 134.413
Dunkel Line: Miami by 1; 39
Vegas Line: Carolina by 3; 42 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (+3); Under