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WHAT A GAME WE HAD YESTERDAY
Please post all service plays below. Good Luck today!!!
WHAT A GAME WE HAD YESTERDAY
Please post all service plays below. Good Luck today!!!
SERVICE PLAYS FOR MON. 2/4
- Thread starter Bootlegbobby
- Start date
THE SPORTS ADVISORS
NBA
Dallas (31-14, 19-24-3 ATS) at Orlando (31-18, 31-17-1 ATS)
The Mavericks conclude a tough four-game road trip when they head down to Orlando to battle the streaking Magic.
Dallas got routed 90-67 at Detroit on Sunday as a five-point road underdog. The Mavericks are 12-4 in their last 15 games, but 2-6-2 ATS in their last nine.
Orlando carries a four-game winning streak into this contest following Saturday?s 121-115 win at Indiana. The Magic covered as a 3 ?-point road favorite, and they?re 8-4-1 ATS in their last 13.
This rivalry has belonged to the Mavericks lately, as they?ve won eight of the last 10 meetings, including the last three in a row. However, the Magic are 6-1 ATS in the last seven against Dallas ? all as an underdog ? including cashing as a 5?-point pup in a 111-108 loss in Texas on Dec. 17. The visitor is 5-1 ATS in the last six head-to-head encounters.
The Mavs are just 11-12 on the road this year, going 9-14 ATS (2-5 ATS in the last six). Dallas is also 3-13 ATS in its last 15 against teams with a winning home record, and 2-5 ATS in its last seven when playing on the second night of a back-to-back spot.
Orlando started the season just 7-8 SU and ATS at home, but has since won its last five in a row at Amway Arena (4-0-1 ATS). The Magic are also on positive ATS streaks of 4-1 against the Western Conference and 7-2-1 on Mondays.
The Mavs have followed a 5-1 ?over? streak by staying under the total in their last four. Additionally, for Dallas, the under is on streaks of 18-7 overall, 11-3 on the road and 7-1 against the Eastern Conference. Also, the under is 5-1-2 in the Magic?s last seven at home. However, the over is 6-0 in the last six series meetings (2-0 in Orlando).
ATS ADVANTAGE: ORLANDO and UNDER
New Orleans (32-14, 29-16-1 ATS) at Utah (30-18, 25-23 ATS)
The red-hot Jazz shoot for their ninth consecutive victory when they host the suddenly struggling Hornets at EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City.
Utah returns home off of two blowout road wins at Washington on Thursday (96-87) and Memphis on Saturday (110-91). The Jazz cashed in both games, and they?re 7-1 ATS during their eight-game winning streak.
New Orleans has followed up a nine-game SU and ATS winning streak with consecutive losses to the Warriors at home (116-103 as a nine-point home chalk) and the Kings on the road (112-103 as a two-point favorite). The straight-up winner has cashed in each of the Hornets? last 22 games.
These teams faced off way back on Nov. 23 in Utah, and the Jazz hammered New Orleans 99-71 as a 6?-point home favorite. Utah has won three straight meetings and seven of the last nine, going 5-3-1 ATS (2-0-1 ATS in the last three).
Utah enjoys the biggest home-court advantage in the NBA with a 20-3 record at EnergySolutions Arena (15-8 ATS). That includes an ongoing 10-game home winning streak (7-3 ATS). Dating to last season, Utah is 23-9-1 ATS as a host.
Despite losing at Sacramento on Friday, New Orleans is still one of the NBA?s best bets on the road, going 16-6 SU and 15-6-1 ATS. Going back to last year, the Hornets are 22-6-1 ATS as a visitor. They?re also 39-17-1 ATS in their last 57 games overall and 9-3 ATS as an underdog this season.
New Orleans has scored at least 103 points in eight of its last nine games, including the last five in a row. Meanwhile, Utah is averaging 105.3 ppg during its eight-game winning streak.
The Hornets have topped the total in three straight games and seven of the last nine. On the flip side, Utah has stayed low in five consecutive games. The under is also 11-5 in the last 16 series clashes between these squads, including 6-2 in the last eight in Utah.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH and UNDER
NBA
Dallas (31-14, 19-24-3 ATS) at Orlando (31-18, 31-17-1 ATS)
The Mavericks conclude a tough four-game road trip when they head down to Orlando to battle the streaking Magic.
Dallas got routed 90-67 at Detroit on Sunday as a five-point road underdog. The Mavericks are 12-4 in their last 15 games, but 2-6-2 ATS in their last nine.
Orlando carries a four-game winning streak into this contest following Saturday?s 121-115 win at Indiana. The Magic covered as a 3 ?-point road favorite, and they?re 8-4-1 ATS in their last 13.
This rivalry has belonged to the Mavericks lately, as they?ve won eight of the last 10 meetings, including the last three in a row. However, the Magic are 6-1 ATS in the last seven against Dallas ? all as an underdog ? including cashing as a 5?-point pup in a 111-108 loss in Texas on Dec. 17. The visitor is 5-1 ATS in the last six head-to-head encounters.
The Mavs are just 11-12 on the road this year, going 9-14 ATS (2-5 ATS in the last six). Dallas is also 3-13 ATS in its last 15 against teams with a winning home record, and 2-5 ATS in its last seven when playing on the second night of a back-to-back spot.
Orlando started the season just 7-8 SU and ATS at home, but has since won its last five in a row at Amway Arena (4-0-1 ATS). The Magic are also on positive ATS streaks of 4-1 against the Western Conference and 7-2-1 on Mondays.
The Mavs have followed a 5-1 ?over? streak by staying under the total in their last four. Additionally, for Dallas, the under is on streaks of 18-7 overall, 11-3 on the road and 7-1 against the Eastern Conference. Also, the under is 5-1-2 in the Magic?s last seven at home. However, the over is 6-0 in the last six series meetings (2-0 in Orlando).
ATS ADVANTAGE: ORLANDO and UNDER
New Orleans (32-14, 29-16-1 ATS) at Utah (30-18, 25-23 ATS)
The red-hot Jazz shoot for their ninth consecutive victory when they host the suddenly struggling Hornets at EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City.
Utah returns home off of two blowout road wins at Washington on Thursday (96-87) and Memphis on Saturday (110-91). The Jazz cashed in both games, and they?re 7-1 ATS during their eight-game winning streak.
New Orleans has followed up a nine-game SU and ATS winning streak with consecutive losses to the Warriors at home (116-103 as a nine-point home chalk) and the Kings on the road (112-103 as a two-point favorite). The straight-up winner has cashed in each of the Hornets? last 22 games.
These teams faced off way back on Nov. 23 in Utah, and the Jazz hammered New Orleans 99-71 as a 6?-point home favorite. Utah has won three straight meetings and seven of the last nine, going 5-3-1 ATS (2-0-1 ATS in the last three).
Utah enjoys the biggest home-court advantage in the NBA with a 20-3 record at EnergySolutions Arena (15-8 ATS). That includes an ongoing 10-game home winning streak (7-3 ATS). Dating to last season, Utah is 23-9-1 ATS as a host.
Despite losing at Sacramento on Friday, New Orleans is still one of the NBA?s best bets on the road, going 16-6 SU and 15-6-1 ATS. Going back to last year, the Hornets are 22-6-1 ATS as a visitor. They?re also 39-17-1 ATS in their last 57 games overall and 9-3 ATS as an underdog this season.
New Orleans has scored at least 103 points in eight of its last nine games, including the last five in a row. Meanwhile, Utah is averaging 105.3 ppg during its eight-game winning streak.
The Hornets have topped the total in three straight games and seven of the last nine. On the flip side, Utah has stayed low in five consecutive games. The under is also 11-5 in the last 16 series clashes between these squads, including 6-2 in the last eight in Utah.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH and UNDER
CTO
*FRESNO STATE over Louisiana Tech...Erratic shooting (38.8%), low-scoring (WAC-worst 58 ppg) La Tech seems to have the deck
stacked against it in this one. The Bulldogs have a full week to prepare and to travel to Hawaii for their Saturday night game in Honolulu vs.
the Warriors. But Tech?s schedule is greatly compressed traveling back for this Monday nighter in Fresno, where the veteran (four senior
starters), quick (3-G lineup) hosts will force the tempo and rain the treys (30 attempts in last week?s 75-58 laugher vs. improved San
Jose...and had just 4 turnovers!).
*FRESNO STATE 79 - Louisiana Tech 50 RATING - 10
*FRESNO STATE over Louisiana Tech...Erratic shooting (38.8%), low-scoring (WAC-worst 58 ppg) La Tech seems to have the deck
stacked against it in this one. The Bulldogs have a full week to prepare and to travel to Hawaii for their Saturday night game in Honolulu vs.
the Warriors. But Tech?s schedule is greatly compressed traveling back for this Monday nighter in Fresno, where the veteran (four senior
starters), quick (3-G lineup) hosts will force the tempo and rain the treys (30 attempts in last week?s 75-58 laugher vs. improved San
Jose...and had just 4 turnovers!).
*FRESNO STATE 79 - Louisiana Tech 50 RATING - 10
THE SPORTS ADVISORS
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Louisville (16-6, 9-10-1 ATS) at (17) Marquette (16-4, 7-8 ATS)
Marquette looks to build on the momentum created from its first Big East road victory of the season when it returns home to face a Louisville team that crushed the Golden Eagles three weeks ago.
Marquette routed Cincinnati 75-60 on Saturday for its third consecutive victory and first on the road in league action. The Eagles cashed as a two-point road chalk to halt an 0-4 ATS slide, but they?re still just 2-6 against the number in their last eight, all in conference play.
Louisville hammered Rutgers 87-50 on Saturday, easily cashing as a hefty 18?-point favorite. The Cardinals are on a 6-2-1 ATS tear, going 3-1-1 ATS in their last five on the highway.
Both teams are 6-3 SU in Big East action, but Louisville is 5-3-1 ATS while the Golden Eagles are 3-6 ATS.
The Cardinals handed Marquette its worst loss of the season back on Jan. 17 in Louisville, winning 71-51 as a three-point home chalk. Rick Pitino?s squad has won five of the last six meetings (4-2 ATS), including a 61-59 victory at Marquette last year as a three-point underdog. The ?dog is 6-3 ATS in the last nine series battles.
Louisville is on ATS tears of 11-3-1 on the road and 22-8-2 in Big East play.
This season, the under is 6-3 in Louisville?s Big East games and 8-3 for Louisville on the road. Also, the under is 4-1 in the last five series meetings. However, the over is 18-7 in Marquette?s last 25 league contests.
ATS ADVANTAGE: LOUISVILLE and UNDER
Missouri (13-9, 7-9 ATS) at (2) Kansas (21-1, 13-7 ATS)
Kansas goes for the season sweep of Missouri when these Big 12 rivals, both coming off victories, clash at Allen Fieldhouse.
The Jayhawks bounced back from their first loss of the season ? Wednesday?s 84-75 setback at Kansas State ? with a 72-59 win at Colorado. However, Bill Self?s squad never threatened to cover as an 18-point road chalk, falling to 2-3 ATS in its last five after starting the season 11-4 ATS. Kansas is once again tied with Kansas State atop the Big 12 standings at 6-1 (4-3 ATS).
Missouri took advantage of an overconfident Kansas State squad with Saturday?s 77-74 victory as a four-point home underdog. The Tigers are just 3-4 SU and ATS in Big 12 play, including 2-4 SU and ATS in their last six.
Missouri played the Jayhawks tough on their home court back on Jan. 19, but still came up short 76-70. However, it cashed as a seven-point home underdog, starting Kansas? current 2-3 ATS slump.
Going back to 2004, the Jayhawks have won eight of the last 10 series meetings, including the last four in a row. However, Missouri is 5-2 ATS in the last seven battles, all as an underdog. The pup is 9-3-2 ATS in the last 14 head-to-head battles.
The Tigers are 2-7 ATS in road/neutral-site games this year, including 0-3 ATS when visiting Big 12 opponents (1-2 SU). They give up an average of 82.2 points per game on 50 percent shooting on the highway. Going back to last season, Mizzou is mired in ATS slumps of 3-8 in league play and 7-19 as a visitor.
Kansas is destroying teams on its home floor, going 14-0 SU and 9-3 ATS while winning by an average margin of 28 points per game (86-58) and outshooting its visitors 52.7 percent to 36.5 percent.
The over is on streaks of 7-2 for Kansas overall, 6-2 for Kansas in the Big 12, 4-0 for Kansas at home, 4-1 for Kansas on Monday, 7-3 for Missouri on the road, 5-0 for Missouri on Mondays and 6-3 in this rivalry. However, last month?s meeting stayed under the number, and the under is 5-2 in the last seven battles at Allen Fieldhouse.
ATS ADVANTAGE: KANSAS and OVER
Gonzaga (17-5, 11-11 ATS) at (21) St. Mary?s (18-3, 10-7-1 ATS)
Fresh off a double-overtime victory at Santa Clara, Gonzaga goes back on the road to face 21st-ranked St. Mary?s in a key matchup between the top two teams in the West Coast Conference.
The Bulldogs needed two extra sessions to get past Santa Clara 87-82 on Saturday to remain perfect in conference play (6-0), one game up on St. Mary?s. However, Gonzaga came up short as a 7?-point road chalk, falling to 4-3 ATS in the WCC despite averaging 83.5 ppg in conference play.
St. Mary?s bounced back from last Monday?s 63-55 upset loss at San Diego with Saturday?s 86-59 rout of Portland as a 19?-point favorite. The Gaels are 5-1 SU and 4-2 ATS in league action, scoring 76 points or more in all five wins.
The home team is 5-1 SU in the last six meetings (3-3 ATS), with each team winning and covering on its own floor last season. Gonzaga rolled 60-49 as a nine-point chalk and St. Mary?s won 80-75 as a three-point home underdog.
Going back to last year, the Zags are on an 8-3 ATS roll in conference play, but are just 5-11-1 ATS on Mondays.
Like Gonzaga, the Gaels are on an 8-3 ATS tear in WCC action, but unlike the Bulldogs, they?ve been strong on Mondays lately, going 11-3 ATS in the last 14 despite last Monday?s loss at San Diego.
The over is 5-1 in Gonzaga?s last six road contests. However, the under is 5-0 in its last five Monday games, 5-1 in St. Mary?s last six overall, 4-1 in St Mary?s last five at home and 8-0-1 in St Mary?s last nine following a spread-cover.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Louisville (16-6, 9-10-1 ATS) at (17) Marquette (16-4, 7-8 ATS)
Marquette looks to build on the momentum created from its first Big East road victory of the season when it returns home to face a Louisville team that crushed the Golden Eagles three weeks ago.
Marquette routed Cincinnati 75-60 on Saturday for its third consecutive victory and first on the road in league action. The Eagles cashed as a two-point road chalk to halt an 0-4 ATS slide, but they?re still just 2-6 against the number in their last eight, all in conference play.
Louisville hammered Rutgers 87-50 on Saturday, easily cashing as a hefty 18?-point favorite. The Cardinals are on a 6-2-1 ATS tear, going 3-1-1 ATS in their last five on the highway.
Both teams are 6-3 SU in Big East action, but Louisville is 5-3-1 ATS while the Golden Eagles are 3-6 ATS.
The Cardinals handed Marquette its worst loss of the season back on Jan. 17 in Louisville, winning 71-51 as a three-point home chalk. Rick Pitino?s squad has won five of the last six meetings (4-2 ATS), including a 61-59 victory at Marquette last year as a three-point underdog. The ?dog is 6-3 ATS in the last nine series battles.
Louisville is on ATS tears of 11-3-1 on the road and 22-8-2 in Big East play.
This season, the under is 6-3 in Louisville?s Big East games and 8-3 for Louisville on the road. Also, the under is 4-1 in the last five series meetings. However, the over is 18-7 in Marquette?s last 25 league contests.
ATS ADVANTAGE: LOUISVILLE and UNDER
Missouri (13-9, 7-9 ATS) at (2) Kansas (21-1, 13-7 ATS)
Kansas goes for the season sweep of Missouri when these Big 12 rivals, both coming off victories, clash at Allen Fieldhouse.
The Jayhawks bounced back from their first loss of the season ? Wednesday?s 84-75 setback at Kansas State ? with a 72-59 win at Colorado. However, Bill Self?s squad never threatened to cover as an 18-point road chalk, falling to 2-3 ATS in its last five after starting the season 11-4 ATS. Kansas is once again tied with Kansas State atop the Big 12 standings at 6-1 (4-3 ATS).
Missouri took advantage of an overconfident Kansas State squad with Saturday?s 77-74 victory as a four-point home underdog. The Tigers are just 3-4 SU and ATS in Big 12 play, including 2-4 SU and ATS in their last six.
Missouri played the Jayhawks tough on their home court back on Jan. 19, but still came up short 76-70. However, it cashed as a seven-point home underdog, starting Kansas? current 2-3 ATS slump.
Going back to 2004, the Jayhawks have won eight of the last 10 series meetings, including the last four in a row. However, Missouri is 5-2 ATS in the last seven battles, all as an underdog. The pup is 9-3-2 ATS in the last 14 head-to-head battles.
The Tigers are 2-7 ATS in road/neutral-site games this year, including 0-3 ATS when visiting Big 12 opponents (1-2 SU). They give up an average of 82.2 points per game on 50 percent shooting on the highway. Going back to last season, Mizzou is mired in ATS slumps of 3-8 in league play and 7-19 as a visitor.
Kansas is destroying teams on its home floor, going 14-0 SU and 9-3 ATS while winning by an average margin of 28 points per game (86-58) and outshooting its visitors 52.7 percent to 36.5 percent.
The over is on streaks of 7-2 for Kansas overall, 6-2 for Kansas in the Big 12, 4-0 for Kansas at home, 4-1 for Kansas on Monday, 7-3 for Missouri on the road, 5-0 for Missouri on Mondays and 6-3 in this rivalry. However, last month?s meeting stayed under the number, and the under is 5-2 in the last seven battles at Allen Fieldhouse.
ATS ADVANTAGE: KANSAS and OVER
Gonzaga (17-5, 11-11 ATS) at (21) St. Mary?s (18-3, 10-7-1 ATS)
Fresh off a double-overtime victory at Santa Clara, Gonzaga goes back on the road to face 21st-ranked St. Mary?s in a key matchup between the top two teams in the West Coast Conference.
The Bulldogs needed two extra sessions to get past Santa Clara 87-82 on Saturday to remain perfect in conference play (6-0), one game up on St. Mary?s. However, Gonzaga came up short as a 7?-point road chalk, falling to 4-3 ATS in the WCC despite averaging 83.5 ppg in conference play.
St. Mary?s bounced back from last Monday?s 63-55 upset loss at San Diego with Saturday?s 86-59 rout of Portland as a 19?-point favorite. The Gaels are 5-1 SU and 4-2 ATS in league action, scoring 76 points or more in all five wins.
The home team is 5-1 SU in the last six meetings (3-3 ATS), with each team winning and covering on its own floor last season. Gonzaga rolled 60-49 as a nine-point chalk and St. Mary?s won 80-75 as a three-point home underdog.
Going back to last year, the Zags are on an 8-3 ATS roll in conference play, but are just 5-11-1 ATS on Mondays.
Like Gonzaga, the Gaels are on an 8-3 ATS tear in WCC action, but unlike the Bulldogs, they?ve been strong on Mondays lately, going 11-3 ATS in the last 14 despite last Monday?s loss at San Diego.
The over is 5-1 in Gonzaga?s last six road contests. However, the under is 5-0 in its last five Monday games, 5-1 in St. Mary?s last six overall, 4-1 in St Mary?s last five at home and 8-0-1 in St Mary?s last nine following a spread-cover.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
WINNERS EDGE
NBA:
Utah Jazz-3.5 , 2 units
Denver Nuggets + 2.5 , 2 units
CBB:
St Joes - 5 , 2 units
Missouri + 19 , 1 unit
NBA:
Utah Jazz-3.5 , 2 units
Denver Nuggets + 2.5 , 2 units
CBB:
St Joes - 5 , 2 units
Missouri + 19 , 1 unit
COMPS
Marc Lawrence
Game: New Orleans Hornets at Utah Jazz Feb 4 2008 9:05PM
Prediction: New Orleans Hornets
Reason: Play On: New Orleans Hornets
Note: Hornets take to the road off back-to-back upset losses with 28-point same season loss revenge against Utah tonight. Revenge is the key factor in this contest for New Orleans as they are 15-5-2 ATS when looking to avenge a defeat against the Jazz, including 6-0-2 ATS when Utah is off a pair of wins in its last two games. With the Jazz looking dead ahead to a revenge game at Denver on Wednesday night, look for the Hornets to get back on the win track here tonight.
JIMMY THE MOOSE
Toronto Raptors at Miami Heat
Monday, February 4th, 7:35 PM ET
The Raptors are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games as a favorite of 0.5 to 10.5. Toronto is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as a favorite. In their last 13 road games vs. a team with a losing home record the Raptors are 9-4 at the window. Miami is 6-24 ATS in their last 30 home games. In their last 16 games as a dog they are 3-12-1 ATS. The Heat are a 14-38-3 ATS in their last 55 games vs. Eastern Conference opponents. The Raptors are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 trips to Miami. The Raptors are 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings overall.
Play on: Toronto
BRIAN GABRIELLE
Take Utah Jazz
Utah is looking for their winning streak to go to 9 games today against a road team that has lost 2 straight. Hornets are a good team but appear to be in a slump right now. Utah is 20-3 at home while the Hornets are 16-6 on the road. One of the best spreads you will see Utah have this year at home. Take the side on the Jazz.
MATT RIVERS
For Monday take the Heat at home
The Heat are gutless and as horrific and underachieving as any team that I have ever seen but this is a bit much for even them to be getting at home. With Dwyane Wade at least on the court Miami at home certainly can hang with a good but far from great Raptor team. Don't get me wrong I really do like Chris Bosh a lot and Toronto is extremely capable as they are a talented bunch with quality pieces like Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, Anthony Parker and others but on the road I do not see them just winning this thing going away.
The Heat have got to start winning some games as Wade is still half a stud and even without Shaq there is enough here to string together something before the season is over. Obviously the playoffs were out of reach months ago and Miami has only pride to play for but in South Beach against a team that is not an elite squad I'll take my chances on this home dog for sure.
Toronto was embarassed in that last game at home by the tired Lakers and should not do a complete 180 today.
TONY WESTON
At first glance I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. The line set for this Nuggets-Blazers game is absolutely ridiculous. But, that?s OK. We can just take advantage of it.
The Portland Trailblazers have lost five straight games ATS coming into tonight?s game and haven?t won a game ATS since getting a win over the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 21.
The Nuggets, on the other hand, have gone 5-1 ATS their L6 games and after the return of Carmelo Anthony to the lineup on Saturday, Denver looks better than it has all year.
?Melo had 25 points in that game Saturday, while Allen Iverson added 24 and reserve Linas Kleiza added 23.
Offensively, the Nuggets are starting to get rolling, having incrementally scored more points in each of their L4 games, going from 85 to 93 to 106 to 117.
Denver will continue that scoring trend and make easy work of the Blazers.
3♦ NUGGETS (1♦ to 5♦ Scale)
Bobby Maxwell
This is the game of the year in the West Coast Conference and if it's a big game we're going to put our money behind the experience of Gonzaga, especially with the Bulldogs getting points in this one.
Gonzaga got a double-OT win at Santa Clara Saturday, 87-82, as a 7 1/2-point road favorite. The Bulldogs are on an 8-3 ATS roll in conference play and they have that experience of being in big games and delivering big performances in NCAA Tournament games.
A week ago we saw St. Mary's get slapped around by San Diego 63-55 and look very average in that one. They might be 5-1 in WCC action and putting up 76 or more points in every win, but we saw what a little defense could do to them last Monday.
Gonzaga is averaging 83.5 points per game in conference play and will likely get in a shootout with St. Mary's in this one. We're going to grab the points with the Bulldogs and back Gonzaga.
4♦ GONZAGA
JIM FEIST
While the Orlando Magic were resting at home Sunday watching football, the Mavericks were in Detroit battling the Pistons. Now they have to fly south and play the next night, and Dallas is a .500 road team with a losing ATS mark. Orlando is not only rested but on a roll, winning 4 in a row. The Magic are 7-1 with Carlos Arroyo in the starting lineup. The Magic's system favors the 3-point shot, and they hit 14 of 25 (56 percent) the last game, a win over Indiana. Dallas has a lack of guard depth because of injuries, making it tougher to defend the three-point arc. Play the Magic!
DAVE COKIN
The shocking run for the Blazers appears to have come to a close, at least from a pointspread perspective. Portland is mired in a really bad ATS run right now. It looks to me like the Nuggets are the value here getting the points."
James Patrick Sports
Missouri vs. Kansas 9:00 p.m. est. ESPN
The Jayhawks let us down on Saturday as they showed the effects of a hand-over, in off their loss to rival Kansas State. Back home in Allen Fieldhouse it should be back to business as usual as we like #726 Kansas Jayhawks as our Monday College Basketball selection.
NICK JONES
New Orleans/Utah OVER 203 (-110)
las vegas sports advisors
NBA
2/4/2008 at 7:00:00 PM
Dallas at Orlando
Orlando -3.5
Bob Harvey Sports
NCB
The Citadel ~vs~ Coll Charleston
Coll Charleston -16 (-105)
ARTHUR RALPH
Gonzaga
RED ZONE
CBB
SAN DIEGO
POINTWISE
KANSAS over Missouri (Mon) RATING: 2
BIG AL
Santa Clara -11.5 over Portland
RAZOR SHARP
MONDAY: CHICAGO Pick'em over Seattle
MIKE WYNN
Portland -3 Over Denver
TOTALS 4 U
DENVER/PORTLAND UNDER 203 1/2
THE VEGAS STEAMLINE
Monday: Take Miami +7.5 over Toronto
HUDDLE UP
SIENNA -5
HD'S ACTIONLINE
Geo. Southern -3
BIG TIME SPORTS
MONDAY FEBRUARY 4th
NEW ORLEANS / UTAH OVER 203
#1 SPORTS
CHARLOTTE BOBCATS + 14
Marc Lawrence
Game: New Orleans Hornets at Utah Jazz Feb 4 2008 9:05PM
Prediction: New Orleans Hornets
Reason: Play On: New Orleans Hornets
Note: Hornets take to the road off back-to-back upset losses with 28-point same season loss revenge against Utah tonight. Revenge is the key factor in this contest for New Orleans as they are 15-5-2 ATS when looking to avenge a defeat against the Jazz, including 6-0-2 ATS when Utah is off a pair of wins in its last two games. With the Jazz looking dead ahead to a revenge game at Denver on Wednesday night, look for the Hornets to get back on the win track here tonight.
JIMMY THE MOOSE
Toronto Raptors at Miami Heat
Monday, February 4th, 7:35 PM ET
The Raptors are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games as a favorite of 0.5 to 10.5. Toronto is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as a favorite. In their last 13 road games vs. a team with a losing home record the Raptors are 9-4 at the window. Miami is 6-24 ATS in their last 30 home games. In their last 16 games as a dog they are 3-12-1 ATS. The Heat are a 14-38-3 ATS in their last 55 games vs. Eastern Conference opponents. The Raptors are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 trips to Miami. The Raptors are 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings overall.
Play on: Toronto
BRIAN GABRIELLE
Take Utah Jazz
Utah is looking for their winning streak to go to 9 games today against a road team that has lost 2 straight. Hornets are a good team but appear to be in a slump right now. Utah is 20-3 at home while the Hornets are 16-6 on the road. One of the best spreads you will see Utah have this year at home. Take the side on the Jazz.
MATT RIVERS
For Monday take the Heat at home
The Heat are gutless and as horrific and underachieving as any team that I have ever seen but this is a bit much for even them to be getting at home. With Dwyane Wade at least on the court Miami at home certainly can hang with a good but far from great Raptor team. Don't get me wrong I really do like Chris Bosh a lot and Toronto is extremely capable as they are a talented bunch with quality pieces like Jose Calderon, Andrea Bargnani, Anthony Parker and others but on the road I do not see them just winning this thing going away.
The Heat have got to start winning some games as Wade is still half a stud and even without Shaq there is enough here to string together something before the season is over. Obviously the playoffs were out of reach months ago and Miami has only pride to play for but in South Beach against a team that is not an elite squad I'll take my chances on this home dog for sure.
Toronto was embarassed in that last game at home by the tired Lakers and should not do a complete 180 today.
TONY WESTON
At first glance I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me. The line set for this Nuggets-Blazers game is absolutely ridiculous. But, that?s OK. We can just take advantage of it.
The Portland Trailblazers have lost five straight games ATS coming into tonight?s game and haven?t won a game ATS since getting a win over the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 21.
The Nuggets, on the other hand, have gone 5-1 ATS their L6 games and after the return of Carmelo Anthony to the lineup on Saturday, Denver looks better than it has all year.
?Melo had 25 points in that game Saturday, while Allen Iverson added 24 and reserve Linas Kleiza added 23.
Offensively, the Nuggets are starting to get rolling, having incrementally scored more points in each of their L4 games, going from 85 to 93 to 106 to 117.
Denver will continue that scoring trend and make easy work of the Blazers.
3♦ NUGGETS (1♦ to 5♦ Scale)
Bobby Maxwell
This is the game of the year in the West Coast Conference and if it's a big game we're going to put our money behind the experience of Gonzaga, especially with the Bulldogs getting points in this one.
Gonzaga got a double-OT win at Santa Clara Saturday, 87-82, as a 7 1/2-point road favorite. The Bulldogs are on an 8-3 ATS roll in conference play and they have that experience of being in big games and delivering big performances in NCAA Tournament games.
A week ago we saw St. Mary's get slapped around by San Diego 63-55 and look very average in that one. They might be 5-1 in WCC action and putting up 76 or more points in every win, but we saw what a little defense could do to them last Monday.
Gonzaga is averaging 83.5 points per game in conference play and will likely get in a shootout with St. Mary's in this one. We're going to grab the points with the Bulldogs and back Gonzaga.
4♦ GONZAGA
JIM FEIST
While the Orlando Magic were resting at home Sunday watching football, the Mavericks were in Detroit battling the Pistons. Now they have to fly south and play the next night, and Dallas is a .500 road team with a losing ATS mark. Orlando is not only rested but on a roll, winning 4 in a row. The Magic are 7-1 with Carlos Arroyo in the starting lineup. The Magic's system favors the 3-point shot, and they hit 14 of 25 (56 percent) the last game, a win over Indiana. Dallas has a lack of guard depth because of injuries, making it tougher to defend the three-point arc. Play the Magic!
DAVE COKIN
The shocking run for the Blazers appears to have come to a close, at least from a pointspread perspective. Portland is mired in a really bad ATS run right now. It looks to me like the Nuggets are the value here getting the points."
James Patrick Sports
Missouri vs. Kansas 9:00 p.m. est. ESPN
The Jayhawks let us down on Saturday as they showed the effects of a hand-over, in off their loss to rival Kansas State. Back home in Allen Fieldhouse it should be back to business as usual as we like #726 Kansas Jayhawks as our Monday College Basketball selection.
NICK JONES
New Orleans/Utah OVER 203 (-110)
las vegas sports advisors
NBA
2/4/2008 at 7:00:00 PM
Dallas at Orlando
Orlando -3.5
Bob Harvey Sports
NCB
The Citadel ~vs~ Coll Charleston
Coll Charleston -16 (-105)
ARTHUR RALPH
Gonzaga
RED ZONE
CBB
SAN DIEGO
POINTWISE
KANSAS over Missouri (Mon) RATING: 2
BIG AL
Santa Clara -11.5 over Portland
RAZOR SHARP
MONDAY: CHICAGO Pick'em over Seattle
MIKE WYNN
Portland -3 Over Denver
TOTALS 4 U
DENVER/PORTLAND UNDER 203 1/2
THE VEGAS STEAMLINE
Monday: Take Miami +7.5 over Toronto
HUDDLE UP
SIENNA -5
HD'S ACTIONLINE
Geo. Southern -3
BIG TIME SPORTS
MONDAY FEBRUARY 4th
NEW ORLEANS / UTAH OVER 203
#1 SPORTS
CHARLOTTE BOBCATS + 14
FERRINGO
1.5-Unit Play. Take #722 St. Joseph's (-5) over Villanova (8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #740 Siena (-4.5) over Marist (7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #733 Gonzaga (+3) over St. Mary's (11 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #738 Western Carolina (+6) over Chattanooga (7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
Lean: Pepperdine (+3.5). If the line moves at all - up to 4.0, but especially down to 3.0 - you really may want to get on this game. Especially if it gets to 3.0.
1.5-Unit Play. Take #722 St. Joseph's (-5) over Villanova (8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #740 Siena (-4.5) over Marist (7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #733 Gonzaga (+3) over St. Mary's (11 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
1-Unit Play. Take #738 Western Carolina (+6) over Chattanooga (7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4)
Lean: Pepperdine (+3.5). If the line moves at all - up to 4.0, but especially down to 3.0 - you really may want to get on this game. Especially if it gets to 3.0.
EZ Winners
NCAA
1 STAR: (721) VILLANOVA (+4.5) over St. Josephs
(Risking $110 to win $100)
7PM Central Time
NBA
1 STAR: (712) UTAH (-3) over New Orleans
(Risking $110 to win $100)
8:05PM Central Time
NCAA
1 STAR: (721) VILLANOVA (+4.5) over St. Josephs
(Risking $110 to win $100)
7PM Central Time
NBA
1 STAR: (712) UTAH (-3) over New Orleans
(Risking $110 to win $100)
8:05PM Central Time
****BOOTLEGS PERSONAL PLAYS*****
----NBA----
(8*) ORLANDO -4
(6*) HOUSTON -5
---CBB------
(7*) TENN-CHAT -4.5
(6*) SAN DIEGO -3.5
(5*) KANSAS -19
OVERALL
34 - 27 - 1
+43 UNITS
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!
----NBA----
(8*) ORLANDO -4
(6*) HOUSTON -5
---CBB------
(7*) TENN-CHAT -4.5
(6*) SAN DIEGO -3.5
(5*) KANSAS -19
OVERALL
34 - 27 - 1
+43 UNITS
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!
Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon
Today's Games...
1. 200,000♦ Traiblazers
2. 50,000♦ Marquette
3. 50,000♦ San Diego
Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon
Today's Games...
1. 200,000♦ Traiblazers
2. 50,000♦ Marquette
3. 50,000♦ San Diego
Drew Gordon Writeups
Drew Gordon Writeups
Drew Gordon
1. 200,000♦ Traiblazers
2. 50,000♦ Marquette
3. 50,000♦ San Diego
1. 200,000 Trailblazers- This is a critical match up for both teams, as Portland sits one game back from Denver in the Northwest standings. A win here would not only pull the Blazers even with the Nuggets, but also give them the season series 3-1, which could mean everything in a close race coming down the stretch.
No better place to do it than the Rose Garden, where the Blazers have been money, going 19-5 SU & 15-9 ATS there this season! They maybe just 2-2 SU over their last 4 home games, but it hasn't been the defenses fault, allowing just 88 ppg over that span. Its been the offense that's struggled, but look for that to change dramastically tonight, as the Nuggets road defense is atrocious, allowing upwards of 109 ppg on 47% shooting this season!
Injuries are also a concern for Denver, as Eduardo Najera will give it a go with bruised ribs, but it appears as though Marcus Camby may not play, listed as questionable with a knee bruise. If he doesn't go, or is limited, it will be huge edge for the Nuggets, as Camby is by far their best rebounder and interior defender. If you thought the Nuggets defense was paper mache' with Camby... Imagine without him!
Finally, its hard to argue with the outstanding team play of this Portland team. You have to watch the play to get a real sense of how much chemistry this Blazers team posseses. It all starts with Brandon Roy, who's a true up-and-coming star, coming off a triple double in the Blazers OT win over the Knicks Friday. Look for another strong effort from Roy, who should easily slice and dice this Nuggets defense to shreds tonight at home.
Bottom line, the Blazers do what they do best, protect their house and grab the cash in the process tonight. They've got a huge advantage on defense, especially if Camby is out, and their offense gets exactly what the doctor ordered with a road-weary Nuggets defense coming to town. In the end, Blazers roll!
Take the Trailblazers comfortably over the Nuggets as your top-rated play of the day.
2. 50,000 Marquette- Its payback time for the Golden Eagles, who got thrashed by this Cardinals team 71-51 at Freedom Hall back in mid-January. Now back at home, where they're undefeated 12-0 on the season, look for the tables to turn, and here's why:
In their first meeting this season, Marquette happened to catch Louisville when they were rolling, off 3 straight wins, including that win at Kentcuky that gave the Cardinals a huge boost. This time around, the Cardinals are a lot more vulnerable, having lost at Seton Hall badly and at Connecticut in 2 of their last 3 road games.
The big difference here is defense, plain and simple. The Golden Eagles defense at Freedom Hall was suspect, but that won't be the case tonight at the Bradley Center, where they allow just 57 ppg on 37% shooting this season. Louisville on the other hand, sees their defense let up considerably on the road, allowing 5 more points per game when they travel (from 60 to 65 ppg).
Therein lies the problem for the Cardinals, because unlike their first meeting, Marquette can and will score at home, where they drop in 80 ppg on 47% shooting. I mean Marquette shot just 30% at Freedom Hall, scoring 51 points for the contest... If you think Hayward and James are going to score a combined 9 points on 3 fro 15 shooting, you got another thing coming!
Bottom line, because of the recent success and public perception of Louisville, coupled with the recent struggles of Marquette ATS, we're getting this game at a bargain price. You know payback is one of the biggest motivators in college sports, and the fact the Golden Eagles are excellent at home only stregthens this play!
Take Marquette over Louisville in this Big East showdown.
3. 50,000. San Diego- Two major factors carry most of the wieght in my decision to back the Toreros on the road in this one. First and foremost, San Diego has been an excellent road bet for some time now, going 43-18 ATS over their last 61 road games! A trend like that is extremely hard to ignore, and the fact they're playing at Pepperdine only makes it that much more relevant.
Guys, in case you haven't noticed, Pepperdine is terrible. They're 7-15 SU overall and just 2-4 ATS at home this season. Not only that, but their coach just up and resigned in the middle of the season, leaving his team questioning everything from their own ability to their reason for even playing at Pepperdine! They have two wins over their last 11 games, with one coming against cupcake NAIA Hope Internatiional. Guys, this team is done, and San Diego takes full advantage tonight.
Biggest disparity between these two teams (among many) is defense... The Torreros play it, the Waves do not, plain and simple. Waves are allowing a mind-boggling 84 ppg on 50% shooting over their last 5 games, as compared to just 59 ppg allowed on 43% shooting by this Torreros defense over the same span! Pepperdine's # 1 weapon is the 3-pointer, which plays right into the heart of this San Diego defense, which excels along the perimeter, allowing opponents to shoot just 29% from beyond the arc over their last 5 games!
Finally, while the Pepperdine offense has better stats than San Diego, match ups tell a different story. The Torreros top-3 players, G Brandon Johnson (top-scorer, top-assist man, top steal-man on his team), and forwards Pomare (7 for 7 14 points last game) and Jones (13 for 22 27 points 14 rebounds last game), are all heads and shoulder better than their counterparts on this sputtering Pepperdine squad.
Bottom line, forget about the home court edge, because the Waves are bad wherever they play. Look for the Torreros to build off their solid 5-1 conference record with an relatively easy win here against a tail-spinning Pepperdine squad tonight.
Take San Diego over Pepperdine in this WCC match up.
Drew Gordon Writeups
Drew Gordon
1. 200,000♦ Traiblazers
2. 50,000♦ Marquette
3. 50,000♦ San Diego
1. 200,000 Trailblazers- This is a critical match up for both teams, as Portland sits one game back from Denver in the Northwest standings. A win here would not only pull the Blazers even with the Nuggets, but also give them the season series 3-1, which could mean everything in a close race coming down the stretch.
No better place to do it than the Rose Garden, where the Blazers have been money, going 19-5 SU & 15-9 ATS there this season! They maybe just 2-2 SU over their last 4 home games, but it hasn't been the defenses fault, allowing just 88 ppg over that span. Its been the offense that's struggled, but look for that to change dramastically tonight, as the Nuggets road defense is atrocious, allowing upwards of 109 ppg on 47% shooting this season!
Injuries are also a concern for Denver, as Eduardo Najera will give it a go with bruised ribs, but it appears as though Marcus Camby may not play, listed as questionable with a knee bruise. If he doesn't go, or is limited, it will be huge edge for the Nuggets, as Camby is by far their best rebounder and interior defender. If you thought the Nuggets defense was paper mache' with Camby... Imagine without him!
Finally, its hard to argue with the outstanding team play of this Portland team. You have to watch the play to get a real sense of how much chemistry this Blazers team posseses. It all starts with Brandon Roy, who's a true up-and-coming star, coming off a triple double in the Blazers OT win over the Knicks Friday. Look for another strong effort from Roy, who should easily slice and dice this Nuggets defense to shreds tonight at home.
Bottom line, the Blazers do what they do best, protect their house and grab the cash in the process tonight. They've got a huge advantage on defense, especially if Camby is out, and their offense gets exactly what the doctor ordered with a road-weary Nuggets defense coming to town. In the end, Blazers roll!
Take the Trailblazers comfortably over the Nuggets as your top-rated play of the day.
2. 50,000 Marquette- Its payback time for the Golden Eagles, who got thrashed by this Cardinals team 71-51 at Freedom Hall back in mid-January. Now back at home, where they're undefeated 12-0 on the season, look for the tables to turn, and here's why:
In their first meeting this season, Marquette happened to catch Louisville when they were rolling, off 3 straight wins, including that win at Kentcuky that gave the Cardinals a huge boost. This time around, the Cardinals are a lot more vulnerable, having lost at Seton Hall badly and at Connecticut in 2 of their last 3 road games.
The big difference here is defense, plain and simple. The Golden Eagles defense at Freedom Hall was suspect, but that won't be the case tonight at the Bradley Center, where they allow just 57 ppg on 37% shooting this season. Louisville on the other hand, sees their defense let up considerably on the road, allowing 5 more points per game when they travel (from 60 to 65 ppg).
Therein lies the problem for the Cardinals, because unlike their first meeting, Marquette can and will score at home, where they drop in 80 ppg on 47% shooting. I mean Marquette shot just 30% at Freedom Hall, scoring 51 points for the contest... If you think Hayward and James are going to score a combined 9 points on 3 fro 15 shooting, you got another thing coming!
Bottom line, because of the recent success and public perception of Louisville, coupled with the recent struggles of Marquette ATS, we're getting this game at a bargain price. You know payback is one of the biggest motivators in college sports, and the fact the Golden Eagles are excellent at home only stregthens this play!
Take Marquette over Louisville in this Big East showdown.
3. 50,000. San Diego- Two major factors carry most of the wieght in my decision to back the Toreros on the road in this one. First and foremost, San Diego has been an excellent road bet for some time now, going 43-18 ATS over their last 61 road games! A trend like that is extremely hard to ignore, and the fact they're playing at Pepperdine only makes it that much more relevant.
Guys, in case you haven't noticed, Pepperdine is terrible. They're 7-15 SU overall and just 2-4 ATS at home this season. Not only that, but their coach just up and resigned in the middle of the season, leaving his team questioning everything from their own ability to their reason for even playing at Pepperdine! They have two wins over their last 11 games, with one coming against cupcake NAIA Hope Internatiional. Guys, this team is done, and San Diego takes full advantage tonight.
Biggest disparity between these two teams (among many) is defense... The Torreros play it, the Waves do not, plain and simple. Waves are allowing a mind-boggling 84 ppg on 50% shooting over their last 5 games, as compared to just 59 ppg allowed on 43% shooting by this Torreros defense over the same span! Pepperdine's # 1 weapon is the 3-pointer, which plays right into the heart of this San Diego defense, which excels along the perimeter, allowing opponents to shoot just 29% from beyond the arc over their last 5 games!
Finally, while the Pepperdine offense has better stats than San Diego, match ups tell a different story. The Torreros top-3 players, G Brandon Johnson (top-scorer, top-assist man, top steal-man on his team), and forwards Pomare (7 for 7 14 points last game) and Jones (13 for 22 27 points 14 rebounds last game), are all heads and shoulder better than their counterparts on this sputtering Pepperdine squad.
Bottom line, forget about the home court edge, because the Waves are bad wherever they play. Look for the Torreros to build off their solid 5-1 conference record with an relatively easy win here against a tail-spinning Pepperdine squad tonight.
Take San Diego over Pepperdine in this WCC match up.
Billy Coleman
4* Jazz
3* Chic
3* Under Phil
4* S.Diego
3* Villanova
California Sports
4* Jazz
4* Fresno St
3* Ark. St
MTI Sports
4'* Denver
4* Toronto
4* Under Port.
Rockdemansports
Dog Of The Day
Villanova
JB
3* Dallas
3* Denver
4* Jazz
3* Chic
3* Under Phil
4* S.Diego
3* Villanova
California Sports
4* Jazz
4* Fresno St
3* Ark. St
MTI Sports
4'* Denver
4* Toronto
4* Under Port.
Rockdemansports
Dog Of The Day
Villanova
JB
3* Dallas
3* Denver
Last edited:
BEN BURNS
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
MARQUETTE
Game: Louisville vs. Marquette Game Time: 2/4/2008 7:00:00 PM Prediction: Marquette Reason: I'm laying the points with MARQUETTE. The Golden Eagles come in with serious payback on their minds, as they were beaten by 20 points at Louisville a few weeks ago. As Cardinals guard Edgar Sosa noted: "They're a team that doesn't like getting beat by 20 too much. They have a lot of pride. They're ready to go to war..." While Louisville was beating up on Rutgers, the Golden Eagles won fairly easily at Cincinnati on Saturday. Note that they've also won all 12 of their home games, averaging 78.0 points in five conference home games and outscoring opponents by more than 15 points per game. With both teams having played on Saturday, it's worth noting that the Golden Eagles are 10-4 ATS the past few seasons when playing a lined game with one or less day's rest in between games. During the same stretch, the Cardinals were just 6-13 ATS in lined games when playing with one or less day's rest in between games. The Golden Eagles are 7-3 ATS (8-2 SU) the last 10 times that they were attempting to avenge an earlier road loss. They're also 9-5 ATS the last 14 times they played a lined game after holding their previous opponent to 60 points or less. In addition to playing excellent defense, the Golden Eagles have a very balanced attack. Junior guard Jerel McNeal, one of four players averaging in double-digits in scoring, had to say the following about Saturday's win: "It gives us a lot of momentum. We feel like we shouldn't lose a game at home this year." Look for a highly motivated effort from the Golden Eagles as they carry confidence from Saturday's game into tonight's game, avenge the earlier loss and improve to 5-0 ATS the last four times they were favored by four points or less. *Big East Game of the Week
KANSAS
Game: Missouri vs. Kansas Game Time: 2/4/2008 9:00:00 PM Prediction: Kansas Reason: I'm laying the points with KANSAS. Many people will think that because Missouri just beat Kansas State, the same team which recently beat Kansas, that the Tigers are going to give the Jayhawks trouble tonight. That might seem logical enough at first glance. However, it's not that simple. Kansas faced the Wildcats at Kansas State. Their instate rivals had the game circled since the schedule came out and they played at their very best. On the other hand, the Tigers got to face the Wildcats at Missouri. They also caught K-State in "letdown mode" off the big win over Kansas. Tonight, the situations are reversed. Missouri, which hasn't won consecutive games against ranked opponents since 2003, is the team which is in "letdown mode." Note that they're just 4-10 ATS the last 14 times they were coming off a conference win. The Tigers, who will still be without Stefhon Hannah (leads team with 14.7 points and 5.3 assists) are also now the team which is playing away from home. That's noteworthy as they're a poor 1-5 SU/ATS on the road for the season. The Jayhawks already won at Missouri two weeks ago and they've won eight straight against the Tigers on this floor. While last year's meeting here was close, the three previous games here were all double-digit blowouts, with the Jayhawks winning by an average of more than 23 points per game. The Jayhawks have won 19 games in a row on this floor and are outscoring opponents by a 86.4 to 57.9 margin here for the season. The Jayhawks have been laying a lot of points in each of those games but that hasn't stopped them from covering. In fact, they're 6-1 ATS their last seven games here, winning ALL seven games by a minimum of 24 points. Looking back at the past couple of seasons and we find that the Jayhawks have gone 26-16 ATS when playing a winning team after 15 or more games have been played. During the same stretch, the Tigers were just 10-19 ATS when facing a team with a winning record after 15 or more games. They're also just 4-10 ATS (1-13 SU) when attempting to avenge a home loss. I expect the Jayhawks to continue their homecourt dominance, delivering a blowout win over their hated rivals. *Personal Favorite
BEN BURNS
NBA BASKETBALL
MIAMI
Game: Toronto Raptors vs. Miami Heat Game Time: 2/4/2008 7:35:00 PM Prediction: Miami Heat Reason: I'm taking the points with MIAMI. The Raptors are obviously having a much better season than the Heat. However, they've never fared too well here and they're unaccustomed to laying this many points on the road. Looking back several years and we find that the Raptors have only been listed as road favorites in the -6.5 to -9 range four times. Note that they went 1-3 ATS in those games. The Raptors have also lost five straight games here in Miami and are just 4-16 the last 20 times they played here. Note that all four of those victories came by single-digits. In fact, in 10 games here since 2003, they've gone 2-8 and the two victories came by just two and three points. One of the primary reasons for the Raptors' recent struggles here is that Dwayne Wade always seems to elevate his game when they come to town. Perhaps Wade is bothered by the fact that Bosh got selected ahead of him in the Draft and is determined to play his best every time Bosh comes to town. Whatever the reason, Wade is averaging 34.8 points, 5.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 58.7 percent in his last four games against the Raptors. The Heat, 7-3 ATS the last 10 times that they were listed as home underdogs in the +6.5 to +9 range are still struggling to get victories. However, they did snap their losing streak last week and they've been highly competitive most nights with five of their last seven losses coming by single-digits. The Raptors have just four wins in their past 11 road games and all four of those victories came by 10 points or less. Facing a team they have fared well against, I expect a big effort from Wade and co. as they take this game down to the wire and earn at least the cover. *Eastern Conference Game of the Week
OVER seattle/chicago
Game: Chicago Bulls vs. Seattle SuperSonics Game Time: 2/4/2008 10:05:00 PM Prediction: over Reason: I'm playing on Chicago and Seattle to finish OVER the total. These teams combined for 219 points when they faced each other here at Chicago in December. They also combined for 208 points the last time that they faced each other here in Seattle. Including that game, which was here last February, the OVER is 3-1 the last four times that the Bulls played here. The Bulls had been playing some low-scoring games of late but combined with Saramento for 206 points last time out. The Sonics played a low-scoring game vs. the Knicks last time out. However, the last time they were a slight home underdog, in a game which had a similar over/under line as tonight, they combined with the Cavs for 196 points. While that game only snuck above the number, it did bring the OVER to a profitable 10-4 the last 14 times that they played a home game with an over/under line which ranged from 190 to 194.5 points. Overall, for the season, the Sonics have seen their home games average 199.6 points. I feel that tonight's number is too low and expect the OVER to improve to 9-4 the last 13 times that the Sonics were coming off a game in which they allowed 85 points or less. *Blue Chip
BEN BURNS
NHL HOCKEY
pass
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
MARQUETTE
Game: Louisville vs. Marquette Game Time: 2/4/2008 7:00:00 PM Prediction: Marquette Reason: I'm laying the points with MARQUETTE. The Golden Eagles come in with serious payback on their minds, as they were beaten by 20 points at Louisville a few weeks ago. As Cardinals guard Edgar Sosa noted: "They're a team that doesn't like getting beat by 20 too much. They have a lot of pride. They're ready to go to war..." While Louisville was beating up on Rutgers, the Golden Eagles won fairly easily at Cincinnati on Saturday. Note that they've also won all 12 of their home games, averaging 78.0 points in five conference home games and outscoring opponents by more than 15 points per game. With both teams having played on Saturday, it's worth noting that the Golden Eagles are 10-4 ATS the past few seasons when playing a lined game with one or less day's rest in between games. During the same stretch, the Cardinals were just 6-13 ATS in lined games when playing with one or less day's rest in between games. The Golden Eagles are 7-3 ATS (8-2 SU) the last 10 times that they were attempting to avenge an earlier road loss. They're also 9-5 ATS the last 14 times they played a lined game after holding their previous opponent to 60 points or less. In addition to playing excellent defense, the Golden Eagles have a very balanced attack. Junior guard Jerel McNeal, one of four players averaging in double-digits in scoring, had to say the following about Saturday's win: "It gives us a lot of momentum. We feel like we shouldn't lose a game at home this year." Look for a highly motivated effort from the Golden Eagles as they carry confidence from Saturday's game into tonight's game, avenge the earlier loss and improve to 5-0 ATS the last four times they were favored by four points or less. *Big East Game of the Week
KANSAS
Game: Missouri vs. Kansas Game Time: 2/4/2008 9:00:00 PM Prediction: Kansas Reason: I'm laying the points with KANSAS. Many people will think that because Missouri just beat Kansas State, the same team which recently beat Kansas, that the Tigers are going to give the Jayhawks trouble tonight. That might seem logical enough at first glance. However, it's not that simple. Kansas faced the Wildcats at Kansas State. Their instate rivals had the game circled since the schedule came out and they played at their very best. On the other hand, the Tigers got to face the Wildcats at Missouri. They also caught K-State in "letdown mode" off the big win over Kansas. Tonight, the situations are reversed. Missouri, which hasn't won consecutive games against ranked opponents since 2003, is the team which is in "letdown mode." Note that they're just 4-10 ATS the last 14 times they were coming off a conference win. The Tigers, who will still be without Stefhon Hannah (leads team with 14.7 points and 5.3 assists) are also now the team which is playing away from home. That's noteworthy as they're a poor 1-5 SU/ATS on the road for the season. The Jayhawks already won at Missouri two weeks ago and they've won eight straight against the Tigers on this floor. While last year's meeting here was close, the three previous games here were all double-digit blowouts, with the Jayhawks winning by an average of more than 23 points per game. The Jayhawks have won 19 games in a row on this floor and are outscoring opponents by a 86.4 to 57.9 margin here for the season. The Jayhawks have been laying a lot of points in each of those games but that hasn't stopped them from covering. In fact, they're 6-1 ATS their last seven games here, winning ALL seven games by a minimum of 24 points. Looking back at the past couple of seasons and we find that the Jayhawks have gone 26-16 ATS when playing a winning team after 15 or more games have been played. During the same stretch, the Tigers were just 10-19 ATS when facing a team with a winning record after 15 or more games. They're also just 4-10 ATS (1-13 SU) when attempting to avenge a home loss. I expect the Jayhawks to continue their homecourt dominance, delivering a blowout win over their hated rivals. *Personal Favorite
BEN BURNS
NBA BASKETBALL
MIAMI
Game: Toronto Raptors vs. Miami Heat Game Time: 2/4/2008 7:35:00 PM Prediction: Miami Heat Reason: I'm taking the points with MIAMI. The Raptors are obviously having a much better season than the Heat. However, they've never fared too well here and they're unaccustomed to laying this many points on the road. Looking back several years and we find that the Raptors have only been listed as road favorites in the -6.5 to -9 range four times. Note that they went 1-3 ATS in those games. The Raptors have also lost five straight games here in Miami and are just 4-16 the last 20 times they played here. Note that all four of those victories came by single-digits. In fact, in 10 games here since 2003, they've gone 2-8 and the two victories came by just two and three points. One of the primary reasons for the Raptors' recent struggles here is that Dwayne Wade always seems to elevate his game when they come to town. Perhaps Wade is bothered by the fact that Bosh got selected ahead of him in the Draft and is determined to play his best every time Bosh comes to town. Whatever the reason, Wade is averaging 34.8 points, 5.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 58.7 percent in his last four games against the Raptors. The Heat, 7-3 ATS the last 10 times that they were listed as home underdogs in the +6.5 to +9 range are still struggling to get victories. However, they did snap their losing streak last week and they've been highly competitive most nights with five of their last seven losses coming by single-digits. The Raptors have just four wins in their past 11 road games and all four of those victories came by 10 points or less. Facing a team they have fared well against, I expect a big effort from Wade and co. as they take this game down to the wire and earn at least the cover. *Eastern Conference Game of the Week
OVER seattle/chicago
Game: Chicago Bulls vs. Seattle SuperSonics Game Time: 2/4/2008 10:05:00 PM Prediction: over Reason: I'm playing on Chicago and Seattle to finish OVER the total. These teams combined for 219 points when they faced each other here at Chicago in December. They also combined for 208 points the last time that they faced each other here in Seattle. Including that game, which was here last February, the OVER is 3-1 the last four times that the Bulls played here. The Bulls had been playing some low-scoring games of late but combined with Saramento for 206 points last time out. The Sonics played a low-scoring game vs. the Knicks last time out. However, the last time they were a slight home underdog, in a game which had a similar over/under line as tonight, they combined with the Cavs for 196 points. While that game only snuck above the number, it did bring the OVER to a profitable 10-4 the last 14 times that they played a home game with an over/under line which ranged from 190 to 194.5 points. Overall, for the season, the Sonics have seen their home games average 199.6 points. I feel that tonight's number is too low and expect the OVER to improve to 9-4 the last 13 times that the Sonics were coming off a game in which they allowed 85 points or less. *Blue Chip
BEN BURNS
NHL HOCKEY
pass
(C&P) CASH & PROFIT EXPERTS
NBA:
PHILADELPHIA/ATLANTA OVER 187
NEW ORLEANS/UTAH OVER 202
CBB:
MARQUETTE -2
(3-1 SATURDAY)
(2-0 SUNDAY)
NBA:
PHILADELPHIA/ATLANTA OVER 187
NEW ORLEANS/UTAH OVER 202
CBB:
MARQUETTE -2
(3-1 SATURDAY)
(2-0 SUNDAY)
Marco D`Angelo
Today's Pick: LA CLIPPERS
NBA
LA Clippers vs. New York
7:35 EST
New York returns home after several close losses on their just completed West Coast Road trip. Fading teams in this situation over the years has been a very profitable play. Look for the Clippers to take this to the final buzzer.TAKE LA CLIPPERS.
Today's Pick: LA CLIPPERS
NBA
LA Clippers vs. New York
7:35 EST
New York returns home after several close losses on their just completed West Coast Road trip. Fading teams in this situation over the years has been a very profitable play. Look for the Clippers to take this to the final buzzer.TAKE LA CLIPPERS.
DOC'S
4 Unit Play. #720 Take Marquette -2 ? over Louisville (7:00 pm ESPN) The Golden Eagles are a tough out at home having not lost a game their this season and this line is too good to pass up. They also have revenge on their mind, as they were pounded three weeks ago but Marquette has a clear edge in talent and they will come back strong on Monday. They picked up an impressive victory at Cincinnati on Saturday and will follow that up tonight.
4 Unit Play. #726 Take Kansas -18 ? over Missouri (9:00 pm ESPN) Usually the Tigers get up for this game with KU, but they do not have the horses to keep this close on Monday. Missou is still without Hannah and Horton and that takes away much of their scoring punch. Kansas goes for close to 100 points tonight and takes out their frustration after losing to Kansas State last week.
4 Unit Play. #734 Take Under 144 in Gonzaga @ Saint Marys (11:00 pm ESPN 2) It has been a while since someone has challenged the Bulldogs in WCC play but that time has arisen and Gaels actually enter this game as the favorite. That does not concern us, as we feel this will be a low scoring hard-fought game that stays way under the posted total. The Gaels are just allowing 63 points per game and get it done with hard noise in your face defense. Gonzaga likes to pound the ball inside as well and thus this will be game decided in the fifties and we will collect with whoever comes out on top.
4 Unit Play. #720 Take Marquette -2 ? over Louisville (7:00 pm ESPN) The Golden Eagles are a tough out at home having not lost a game their this season and this line is too good to pass up. They also have revenge on their mind, as they were pounded three weeks ago but Marquette has a clear edge in talent and they will come back strong on Monday. They picked up an impressive victory at Cincinnati on Saturday and will follow that up tonight.
4 Unit Play. #726 Take Kansas -18 ? over Missouri (9:00 pm ESPN) Usually the Tigers get up for this game with KU, but they do not have the horses to keep this close on Monday. Missou is still without Hannah and Horton and that takes away much of their scoring punch. Kansas goes for close to 100 points tonight and takes out their frustration after losing to Kansas State last week.
4 Unit Play. #734 Take Under 144 in Gonzaga @ Saint Marys (11:00 pm ESPN 2) It has been a while since someone has challenged the Bulldogs in WCC play but that time has arisen and Gaels actually enter this game as the favorite. That does not concern us, as we feel this will be a low scoring hard-fought game that stays way under the posted total. The Gaels are just allowing 63 points per game and get it done with hard noise in your face defense. Gonzaga likes to pound the ball inside as well and thus this will be game decided in the fifties and we will collect with whoever comes out on top.
STRIKE POINT SPORTS
3-Unit Play. #733 Take Gonzaga +3 over St. Mary's (11 pm)
The Gaels may have shown a lot earlier in the season, but the underdog Zags are the better team. Gonzaga has been tested all season with games against Tennessee, Connecticut, Oklahoma and Memphis. And sandwiched on both sides of their loss to the No. 1 Tigers several Saturdays back is a stretch of eight victories where the Bulldogs have played extremely well. Gonzaga has a very talented, balanced team that is clicking at the right time. Behind point guard Jeremy Pargo and scorers Matt Bouldin, Josh Heytvelt and Austin Daye, this team can go. We'll see them score an outright win and remain perfect in WCC play.
3-Unit Play. #733 Take Gonzaga +3 over St. Mary's (11 pm)
The Gaels may have shown a lot earlier in the season, but the underdog Zags are the better team. Gonzaga has been tested all season with games against Tennessee, Connecticut, Oklahoma and Memphis. And sandwiched on both sides of their loss to the No. 1 Tigers several Saturdays back is a stretch of eight victories where the Bulldogs have played extremely well. Gonzaga has a very talented, balanced team that is clicking at the right time. Behind point guard Jeremy Pargo and scorers Matt Bouldin, Josh Heytvelt and Austin Daye, this team can go. We'll see them score an outright win and remain perfect in WCC play.
WUNDERDOG
COMP COLLEGE HOOPS
Game: N C- Greensboro at Georgia Southern (7:30 PM Eastern)
Pick: N C- Greensboro +2.5 (-110)
The Spartans have now gone 10-2 in their last 12 game and are playing with confidence. Kyle Hines has been a dominating player lately. He has averaged 22 points per game, 10.7 rebounds per game and 2.3 blocks per game over his last six outings. Hines had a sub-par game against Georgia Southern earlier, but the Spartans still won by 12. Georgia Southern loaded up its early schedule resulting in a 9-2 start, but has since been 5-6, which shows that they aren't as good as perhaps their record would indicate. Spartans have the edge here, so we will grab the points with a live dog.
COMP NBA PICK
Game: Houston at Minnesota (8:00 PM Eastern)
Pick: Game Total UNDER 189 -110
The suddenly hot T-Wolves, who had five wins as of January 8, have added five more to the win column in their last seven. After allowing 100+ points in 9-of-10 games, the T-Wolves have suddenly discovered defense, as they have held their last five opponents to an average of just 85.6 points per game. Minnesota has averaged just 94 ppg on the season, but the last five defensive efforts have also curtailed scoring as they have scored just 91.2 ppg in their last five. Houston knows a little about playing defense themselves as they bring the No. 5 rated NBA defense to Minnesota that also allows only 43.7% shooting - second best in the NBA. See this one low-scoring with the T-Wolves feeling good and finally defending against a defensive-minded Houston team.
COMP COLLEGE HOOPS
Game: N C- Greensboro at Georgia Southern (7:30 PM Eastern)
Pick: N C- Greensboro +2.5 (-110)
The Spartans have now gone 10-2 in their last 12 game and are playing with confidence. Kyle Hines has been a dominating player lately. He has averaged 22 points per game, 10.7 rebounds per game and 2.3 blocks per game over his last six outings. Hines had a sub-par game against Georgia Southern earlier, but the Spartans still won by 12. Georgia Southern loaded up its early schedule resulting in a 9-2 start, but has since been 5-6, which shows that they aren't as good as perhaps their record would indicate. Spartans have the edge here, so we will grab the points with a live dog.
COMP NBA PICK
Game: Houston at Minnesota (8:00 PM Eastern)
Pick: Game Total UNDER 189 -110
The suddenly hot T-Wolves, who had five wins as of January 8, have added five more to the win column in their last seven. After allowing 100+ points in 9-of-10 games, the T-Wolves have suddenly discovered defense, as they have held their last five opponents to an average of just 85.6 points per game. Minnesota has averaged just 94 ppg on the season, but the last five defensive efforts have also curtailed scoring as they have scored just 91.2 ppg in their last five. Houston knows a little about playing defense themselves as they bring the No. 5 rated NBA defense to Minnesota that also allows only 43.7% shooting - second best in the NBA. See this one low-scoring with the T-Wolves feeling good and finally defending against a defensive-minded Houston team.
