Sunday 9/7/08 Service plays
- Thread starter the duke
- Start date
PSYCHIC
2 units Pittsburgh -6.5
3 units St. Louis +9
WISEGUY.....Jacksonville -3
DA STICK
5 units New England -15.5
5 units Buffalo -1.5
10 units Dallas -5.5
10 units Indianapolis -9.5
UNDERDOG OF THE DAY NFL SUNDAY
10 units Atlanta +3
TEASER OF THE WEEKEND
10 units Miami +13, Buffalo +8.5, Indianapolis -.5
PARLAY OF THE WEEKEND
5 units Dallas/Indianapolis
2 units Pittsburgh -6.5
3 units St. Louis +9
WISEGUY.....Jacksonville -3
DA STICK
5 units New England -15.5
5 units Buffalo -1.5
10 units Dallas -5.5
10 units Indianapolis -9.5
UNDERDOG OF THE DAY NFL SUNDAY
10 units Atlanta +3
TEASER OF THE WEEKEND
10 units Miami +13, Buffalo +8.5, Indianapolis -.5
PARLAY OF THE WEEKEND
5 units Dallas/Indianapolis
Sixth Sense Sports
Cincinnati ?1.5 BALTIMORE 38
Baltimore was terrible on offense last year averaging just 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl, including just 5.1yps against 6.0yps. They drafted Joe Flacco at quarterback and he will get the start but it doesn?t appear he is ready to help the offense improve that much, if at all. The defense also suffered because of injuries in the secondary. They allowed just 2.9ypr against 4.0ypr but allowed a very uncharacteristic 6.8yps against 6.2yps and 5.0yppl against 5.2yppl overall on defense. Luckily for Baltimore they get Cincinnati in week one. A team that seems to be getting worse each year under Marvin Lewis, the Bengals defense continues to be porous, allowing 4.2ypr against 4.0ypr, 6.6yps against 5.8yps and 5.5yppl against 5.0yppl overall. The offense still performed above average, gaining 6.8yps against 6.0yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl. With Chad Johnson possibly hurting and Rudi Johnson gone (although he didn?t do much last year) it?s questionable whether this offense will be any better and it doesn?t appear the defense will be much better. Baltimore has lost three of the last four games here against Cincinnati and a team like Cincinnati can pose problems if they get ahead against a bad offense like Baltimore. Cincinnati was just 1-4 ATS as a road favorite last year and the only win was a meaningless season final at Miami. Baltimore qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5. They don?t qualify in the better subsets of that situation and the part they qualify in isn?t good enough to make a best bet. Numbers favor Cincinnati by 2.5 points. I will lean lightly with the better defense, home dog and the team with the situation favoring them. Baltimore was a home dog four times last year. They went 2-2 ATS but the fewest total points their games totaled were 48 points. In four of their five road games last year as road favorites, Cincinnati totaled at least 47 points. I can?t trust the Baltimore offense to do their part but I will also lean towards the over with a low total. BALTIMORE 24 CINCINNATI 23
NY Jets ?3 MIAMI 36
New era in NY with Brett Favre running the offense. This should greatly improve a Jets offense that added help on the offensive line, has pretty good receivers in Cotchery and Coles along with Bubba Franks and Dustin Keller. Their offense averaged just 5.3yps against 5.9yps last year and 4.7yppl against 5.2yppl but their passing game should be at least average this year. The Jets defense was just average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.2yppl. They face a Miami offense that was just as brutal as the Jets, averaging just 5.1yps against 6.0yps and 4.7yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense was worse, allowing 4.5ypr against 4.1ypr, 6.9yps against 6.2yps and 5.6yppl against 5.3yppl. They did improve their quarterback position with Chad Pennington. While I?m not a big believer in Pennington, he is an upgrade over what they had. Miami qualifies in an opening day situation that is 6-0. Last years numbers would have favored Miami by one point but with Favre now in charge, I would make the Jets a two to three point favorite. Predicted total is 40 points and that number probably gets better with Favre now starting. Hard for me to take Miami in this game. Weak lean towards the Jets and the over. NY JETS 24 MIAMI 17
NEW ENGLAND ?15.5 Kansas City 44.5
I expect the Patriots to drop off a little bit this year. I guess that?s not saying much seeing there is no way they can duplicate what they did they did last year. Brady is a little banged up and their defense isn?t getting any younger but I don?t expect them to have much trouble against a bad Chiefs team. NE averaged 7.8yps against 6.0yps and 6.2yppl against 5.2yppl. Their defense allowed 4.4ypr against 4.1ypr but just 5.3yps against 5.9yps and 4.9yppl against 5.1yppl. They will face a bad Chiefs offense that averaged 3.3ypr against 4.2ypr, 5.2yps against 6.1yps and 4.4yppl against 5.3yppl. Their defense was average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.3yppl. I don?t see their offense improving much and find it hard to believe they can stay with NE in this game even though it?s a large number. NE does qualify in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5 but they don?t qualify in the better subsets. Numbers favor NE by 17 points and predict about 46 points. NEW ENGLAND 33 KANSAS CITY 13
PITTSBURGH ?6 Houston 43
Pittsburgh struggled on offense last year allowing a lot of quarterback sacks. They lost their best offensive lineman, Alan Faneca, to the Jets. The offense was just average gaining 5.2yppl against 5.3yppl. The defense, as usual, was terrific allowing just 4.9yps against 6.0yps and 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl. Houston improved greatly last year, especially on offense. They averaged just 3.8ypr against 4.2ypr but averaged 6.8yps against 5.9yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl overall. Andre Johnson missed a good number of those games as well but they still posted very good numbers. The defense was below average, allowing 4.4ypr against 4.1ypr, 6.4yps against 6.1yps and 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl. Houston is improved this year as they were last year but they are just 5-24 SU in their history on the road against a .500 or better team with their average loss by 14 points (not including week one games but I assume Pittsburgh is at least a .500 team this year). Three of those wins were at Jacksonville. Even though they were improved last year they were still just 1-5 SU against .500 or better teams on the road with the average loss by 12 points. In the Roethlisberger era, Pittsburgh is now 20-0 SU during the regular season when they are favored by five points or more at home. Seventeen of those twenty games produced wins of nine points or more, with the exception of a one point win over Baltimore a few years ago, a three point win over Miami in the mud game last year and a three point win over Cleveland that they completely dominated but kick returns and an interception return kept Cleveland in the game. They are 15-4-1 ATS during that span. In other words, when they are supposed to win, they do so in convincing fashion. Pittsburgh qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5 and a subset, which is 64-34-4. They also qualify in a week one situation, which is 55-19-3. Numbers favor Pittsburgh by 5.5 points before applying the situations and predict about 48 points. Pittsburgh sports a much better rush offense and defense and that is usually a recipe for success against the spread. They also sport a much better pass defense. PITTSBURGH 30 HOUSTON 17
Jacksonville ?3 TENNESSEE 36
I had Jacksonville in a Best Bet in their opener last year against Tennessee and the Titans came in and ran all over Jacksonville. Jacksonville improved greatly on offense last year with David Garrard as the quarterback. They averaged 4.6ypr against 4.2ypr, 6.7yps against 5.9yps and 5.6yppl against 5.1yppl. The defense was just average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.1yppl and they lost more defensive personnel this year. Tennessee was not good on offense last year averaging just 4.8yppl against 5.2yppl but they played good defense allowing just 4.8yppl against 5.2yppl. Jacksonville revenged that loss last year by going to Tennessee and winning 28-13. They have won three of the past four games here but the other two wins were by just three points each. Prior to that they lost the five previous road trips to Tennessee. Jacksonville qualifies in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3. Tennessee has been very good as a home dog with Vince Young at quarterback, going 5-1 ATS (not including his first game against Dallas). Jacksonville has struggled on the road as a road favorite, going just 1-5 ATS the last two years. Numbers favor Jacksonville by 2.5 points before accounting for the situations. I have a hard time pulling the trigger on Jacksonville here with the spread history of both teams in their fav/dog roles. Jacksonville has some injuries at the receiver position and with the shooting of their backup offensive lineman this week, there is just added question marks. JACKSONVILLE 23 TENNESSEE 18
Detroit ?3 ATLANTA 40.5
Detroit improved last year on offense averaging 5.4yppl against 5.1yppl, although they were just average running and throwing the ball. But, because they threw so much, their offensive numbers looked better than average. On defense they were not good, allowing 5.6yppl against 5.3yppl. They also appeared to quit on the season losing seven of their last eight games. Atlanta starts over with Matt Ryan at quarterback. Falcons struggled throwing the ball last year averaging just 5.5yps against 6.0yps and 4.9yppl against 5.1yppl overall. They allowed 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl on defense. I?ve got no situations on either team. Numbers favor Atlanta by three points and predict about 50 points but that is based on the pass happy offense of Mike Martz, who is now gone. I?ll lean with Detroit because I think they have better talent at this point in the season with a lean towards the over as well. DETROIT 27 ATLANTA 23
BUFFALO ?1 Seattle 38.5
Buffalo offense struggled last year averaging just 16 points per game and 4.8yppl against 5.1yppl, including just 5.6yps against 6.0yps. They were also below average on defense across the board, allowing 4.4ypr against 4.2ypr, 6.4yps against 6.2yps and 5.5yppl against 5.3yppl. Seattle allowed 5.0yppl against 5.0yppl. Buffalo has been a pretty reliable team over the years as a home favorite of three or less or a home dog of three or less. They are 9-1 ATS over their last 10 games in that role. The numbers are pretty good before that as well. Seattle is a banged up team on defense and offense missing key receivers and Matt Hasslebeck missed most of the preseason. Buffalo qualifies in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3. Numbers favor Seattle by three points and predict about 37 points. Not enough value for me as this line as moved against us and that will keep me off the Bills as a Best Bet. BUFFALO 20 SEATTLE 17
NEW ORLEANS ?3 Tampa Bay 42.5
Saints were very good on offense last year, gaining 6.5yps against 6.0yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl overall. Unfortunately they allowed 7.1yps against 5.9yps and 5.8yppl against 5.0yppl overall. TB improved their passing game with Jeff Garcia, averaging 6.4yps against 6.2yps and also ran the ball better, averaging 4.2ypr against 4.0ypr. The defense, as usual, was very good allowing 5.2yps against 5.9yps and 4.6yppl against 6.1yppl. Saints qualify in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3 but there is no value in this play. Numbers make this game a pick ?em and predict about 45 points. TB has played here the last six years winning four of the six (four of the last five) and the two losses were by three points each. They have dominated NO in New Orleans. Solid situation favoring NO but no value, past history which suggests they will struggle to cover this game as a favorite along with TB having a much better defense make it hard for me take New Orleans in this game. Tough to get rich laying points with an inferior defense. I will lean their way because of the situation. NEW ORLEANS 24 TAMPA BAY 21
PHILADELPHIA ?7.5 St Louis 44
Philly was above average on offense last year but not as good as they would have liked. Their passing game was just average, gaining 6.0yps against 6.0yps. The running game averaged 4.7ypr against 4.0ypr and they averaged 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl overall. The defense was good again, allowing just 5.1yppl against 5.3yppl and figures to improve with Asante Samuel added to the team this year. Rams were terrible on offense gaining just 5.2yps against 6.1yps and 4.6yppl against 5.1yppl. They suffered numerous injuries to running back, quarterback and offensive line last year. The defense was below average as usual, allowing 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl. Philadelphia qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including subsets, which are 64-34-4 and 42-10-1. Numbers favor Philly by 9.5 points before accounting for the situations and predict about 39 points, based mostly on the anemic offense of the Rams from last year. I don?t see the Rams being able to keep up with the Philly offense. Philly has injuries at the receiver position but they should be able to do enough and I expect their defense to force turnovers as well. PHILADELPHIA 27 ST LOUIS 10
Dallas ?5.5 CLEVELAND 49
Dallas struggled after they beat Green Bay last year. It appeared they thought that was their ticket to the SB as they failed to cover their last five games, including their playoff game against the Giants. They averaged 7.4yps against 6.1yps and 6.0yppl against 5.2yppl overall. The defense was also good allowing just 5.4yps against 5.9yps and 4.9yppl against 5.2yppl. The Browns improved greatly last year on offense. They averaged 4.3ypr against 4.0ypr, 6.6yps against 6.2yps and 5.6yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense struggled, especially against the run, allowing 4.5ypr against 4.1ypr. They allowed 5.4yppl against 5.1yppl overall. They added Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams on the defensive line to improve their run defense. Cleveland applies to a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including subsets, which are 64-34-4, 42-10-1 and 13-1. Numbers favor Dallas by just two points and predict about 54 points. Solid situations on Cleveland and value as well. This line has been bet up from the ?3 or ?3.5 it started at. Cleveland has some injuries but I will take a flyer based on the situations and value. Not real confident in the play but have to trust the numbers and the situations sometimes. May want to wait on this one as I only see it going higher. DALLAS 28 CLEVELAND 27
San Diego ?8.5 CAROLINA 41.5
Chargers covered their last nine games last year after a poor start. Maybe it just took some time for them to adjust to new head coach Norv Turner. SD averaged just 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl on offense. The defense allowed just 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl as well. Carolina really struggled on offense, averaging just 5.1yps against 6.0yps and 4.6yppl against 5.1yppl. They allowed 5.0yppl against 5.3yppl on defense. The poor passing numbers were the product of losing Jake Delhomme at quarterback for the majority of the season. I don?t have any situations on this game and numbers favor SD by 9.5 points and predict about 40 points. I like the potential of the Carolina rushing game and their defense to keep this game closer than the spread. SAN DIEGO 23 CAROLINA 17
Arizona ?2.5 SAN FRANCISCO 42
SF was brutal on offense last year with Alex Smith at qb. They averaged just 4.1yps against 6.1yps and 4.1yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense was average, allowing 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl but 6.3yps against 6.0yps. I would think their offense will get much more efficient this year with J. T. O?Sullivan at qb and Mike Martz now running the offense. They?ll face Arizona who was above average on offense, gaining 5.4yppl against 5.2yppl, including 6.6yps against 6.1yps. The defense was below average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.0yppl. I don?t have any situations on this game. Numbers favor Arizona by 2.5 points and predict about 44 points. These two have historically played pretty high scoring games. Arizona has an above average passing offense and both teams have below average pass defenses. SF should be much improved on offense but until I see it I can?t bank on it. I will lean towards the better team at this point. ARIZONA 24 SAN FRANCISCO 21
INDIANAPOLIS ?9.5 Chicago 44
Indy had great numbers last year that tailed off near the end of the season as they missed Marvin Harrison for a good amount of time. They still ended up averaging 7.0yps against 6.0yps and 5.6yppl against 5.2yppl but their rush offense averaged just 3.8ypr against 4.1ypr. The defense was very good allowing just 3.8ypr against 4.1ypr, 5.3yps against 6.1yps and 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl overall. That was a huge improvement over the year before. The Bears offense was terrible, gaining just 3.1ypr against 4.0ypr, 5.5yps against 6.1yps and 4.5yppl against 5.2yppl. And the defense, with injuries, was just average allowing 5.5yppl against 5.4yppl. Indy qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including a subset, which is 64-34-4. Those situations are not the best part of that situation. Numbers favor Indy by 12 and predict about 44 points. A few question marks for Indy to begin the season. Peyton Manning has missed all of preseason but he should be ready to go. The fact Indy cut two of their reserve quarterbacks tells me they believe Manning is fine. Jeff Saturday, their center, is out for an extended period and that could affect their offense. The Bears are going with Kyle Orton, who is probably less dangerous to them than Rex Grossman. I?m not a big believer in the Bears who have nobody at the receiver position but too many question marks with Indy early in the season to make any best bets on them. INDIANAPOLIS 28 CHICAGO 17
3% PITTSBURGH ?6
3% PHILADELPHIA ?7.5
3% CLEVELAND +5.5
Cincinnati ?1.5 BALTIMORE 38
Baltimore was terrible on offense last year averaging just 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl, including just 5.1yps against 6.0yps. They drafted Joe Flacco at quarterback and he will get the start but it doesn?t appear he is ready to help the offense improve that much, if at all. The defense also suffered because of injuries in the secondary. They allowed just 2.9ypr against 4.0ypr but allowed a very uncharacteristic 6.8yps against 6.2yps and 5.0yppl against 5.2yppl overall on defense. Luckily for Baltimore they get Cincinnati in week one. A team that seems to be getting worse each year under Marvin Lewis, the Bengals defense continues to be porous, allowing 4.2ypr against 4.0ypr, 6.6yps against 5.8yps and 5.5yppl against 5.0yppl overall. The offense still performed above average, gaining 6.8yps against 6.0yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl. With Chad Johnson possibly hurting and Rudi Johnson gone (although he didn?t do much last year) it?s questionable whether this offense will be any better and it doesn?t appear the defense will be much better. Baltimore has lost three of the last four games here against Cincinnati and a team like Cincinnati can pose problems if they get ahead against a bad offense like Baltimore. Cincinnati was just 1-4 ATS as a road favorite last year and the only win was a meaningless season final at Miami. Baltimore qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5. They don?t qualify in the better subsets of that situation and the part they qualify in isn?t good enough to make a best bet. Numbers favor Cincinnati by 2.5 points. I will lean lightly with the better defense, home dog and the team with the situation favoring them. Baltimore was a home dog four times last year. They went 2-2 ATS but the fewest total points their games totaled were 48 points. In four of their five road games last year as road favorites, Cincinnati totaled at least 47 points. I can?t trust the Baltimore offense to do their part but I will also lean towards the over with a low total. BALTIMORE 24 CINCINNATI 23
NY Jets ?3 MIAMI 36
New era in NY with Brett Favre running the offense. This should greatly improve a Jets offense that added help on the offensive line, has pretty good receivers in Cotchery and Coles along with Bubba Franks and Dustin Keller. Their offense averaged just 5.3yps against 5.9yps last year and 4.7yppl against 5.2yppl but their passing game should be at least average this year. The Jets defense was just average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.2yppl. They face a Miami offense that was just as brutal as the Jets, averaging just 5.1yps against 6.0yps and 4.7yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense was worse, allowing 4.5ypr against 4.1ypr, 6.9yps against 6.2yps and 5.6yppl against 5.3yppl. They did improve their quarterback position with Chad Pennington. While I?m not a big believer in Pennington, he is an upgrade over what they had. Miami qualifies in an opening day situation that is 6-0. Last years numbers would have favored Miami by one point but with Favre now in charge, I would make the Jets a two to three point favorite. Predicted total is 40 points and that number probably gets better with Favre now starting. Hard for me to take Miami in this game. Weak lean towards the Jets and the over. NY JETS 24 MIAMI 17
NEW ENGLAND ?15.5 Kansas City 44.5
I expect the Patriots to drop off a little bit this year. I guess that?s not saying much seeing there is no way they can duplicate what they did they did last year. Brady is a little banged up and their defense isn?t getting any younger but I don?t expect them to have much trouble against a bad Chiefs team. NE averaged 7.8yps against 6.0yps and 6.2yppl against 5.2yppl. Their defense allowed 4.4ypr against 4.1ypr but just 5.3yps against 5.9yps and 4.9yppl against 5.1yppl. They will face a bad Chiefs offense that averaged 3.3ypr against 4.2ypr, 5.2yps against 6.1yps and 4.4yppl against 5.3yppl. Their defense was average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.3yppl. I don?t see their offense improving much and find it hard to believe they can stay with NE in this game even though it?s a large number. NE does qualify in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5 but they don?t qualify in the better subsets. Numbers favor NE by 17 points and predict about 46 points. NEW ENGLAND 33 KANSAS CITY 13
PITTSBURGH ?6 Houston 43
Pittsburgh struggled on offense last year allowing a lot of quarterback sacks. They lost their best offensive lineman, Alan Faneca, to the Jets. The offense was just average gaining 5.2yppl against 5.3yppl. The defense, as usual, was terrific allowing just 4.9yps against 6.0yps and 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl. Houston improved greatly last year, especially on offense. They averaged just 3.8ypr against 4.2ypr but averaged 6.8yps against 5.9yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl overall. Andre Johnson missed a good number of those games as well but they still posted very good numbers. The defense was below average, allowing 4.4ypr against 4.1ypr, 6.4yps against 6.1yps and 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl. Houston is improved this year as they were last year but they are just 5-24 SU in their history on the road against a .500 or better team with their average loss by 14 points (not including week one games but I assume Pittsburgh is at least a .500 team this year). Three of those wins were at Jacksonville. Even though they were improved last year they were still just 1-5 SU against .500 or better teams on the road with the average loss by 12 points. In the Roethlisberger era, Pittsburgh is now 20-0 SU during the regular season when they are favored by five points or more at home. Seventeen of those twenty games produced wins of nine points or more, with the exception of a one point win over Baltimore a few years ago, a three point win over Miami in the mud game last year and a three point win over Cleveland that they completely dominated but kick returns and an interception return kept Cleveland in the game. They are 15-4-1 ATS during that span. In other words, when they are supposed to win, they do so in convincing fashion. Pittsburgh qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5 and a subset, which is 64-34-4. They also qualify in a week one situation, which is 55-19-3. Numbers favor Pittsburgh by 5.5 points before applying the situations and predict about 48 points. Pittsburgh sports a much better rush offense and defense and that is usually a recipe for success against the spread. They also sport a much better pass defense. PITTSBURGH 30 HOUSTON 17
Jacksonville ?3 TENNESSEE 36
I had Jacksonville in a Best Bet in their opener last year against Tennessee and the Titans came in and ran all over Jacksonville. Jacksonville improved greatly on offense last year with David Garrard as the quarterback. They averaged 4.6ypr against 4.2ypr, 6.7yps against 5.9yps and 5.6yppl against 5.1yppl. The defense was just average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.1yppl and they lost more defensive personnel this year. Tennessee was not good on offense last year averaging just 4.8yppl against 5.2yppl but they played good defense allowing just 4.8yppl against 5.2yppl. Jacksonville revenged that loss last year by going to Tennessee and winning 28-13. They have won three of the past four games here but the other two wins were by just three points each. Prior to that they lost the five previous road trips to Tennessee. Jacksonville qualifies in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3. Tennessee has been very good as a home dog with Vince Young at quarterback, going 5-1 ATS (not including his first game against Dallas). Jacksonville has struggled on the road as a road favorite, going just 1-5 ATS the last two years. Numbers favor Jacksonville by 2.5 points before accounting for the situations. I have a hard time pulling the trigger on Jacksonville here with the spread history of both teams in their fav/dog roles. Jacksonville has some injuries at the receiver position and with the shooting of their backup offensive lineman this week, there is just added question marks. JACKSONVILLE 23 TENNESSEE 18
Detroit ?3 ATLANTA 40.5
Detroit improved last year on offense averaging 5.4yppl against 5.1yppl, although they were just average running and throwing the ball. But, because they threw so much, their offensive numbers looked better than average. On defense they were not good, allowing 5.6yppl against 5.3yppl. They also appeared to quit on the season losing seven of their last eight games. Atlanta starts over with Matt Ryan at quarterback. Falcons struggled throwing the ball last year averaging just 5.5yps against 6.0yps and 4.9yppl against 5.1yppl overall. They allowed 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl on defense. I?ve got no situations on either team. Numbers favor Atlanta by three points and predict about 50 points but that is based on the pass happy offense of Mike Martz, who is now gone. I?ll lean with Detroit because I think they have better talent at this point in the season with a lean towards the over as well. DETROIT 27 ATLANTA 23
BUFFALO ?1 Seattle 38.5
Buffalo offense struggled last year averaging just 16 points per game and 4.8yppl against 5.1yppl, including just 5.6yps against 6.0yps. They were also below average on defense across the board, allowing 4.4ypr against 4.2ypr, 6.4yps against 6.2yps and 5.5yppl against 5.3yppl. Seattle allowed 5.0yppl against 5.0yppl. Buffalo has been a pretty reliable team over the years as a home favorite of three or less or a home dog of three or less. They are 9-1 ATS over their last 10 games in that role. The numbers are pretty good before that as well. Seattle is a banged up team on defense and offense missing key receivers and Matt Hasslebeck missed most of the preseason. Buffalo qualifies in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3. Numbers favor Seattle by three points and predict about 37 points. Not enough value for me as this line as moved against us and that will keep me off the Bills as a Best Bet. BUFFALO 20 SEATTLE 17
NEW ORLEANS ?3 Tampa Bay 42.5
Saints were very good on offense last year, gaining 6.5yps against 6.0yps and 5.5yppl against 5.1yppl overall. Unfortunately they allowed 7.1yps against 5.9yps and 5.8yppl against 5.0yppl overall. TB improved their passing game with Jeff Garcia, averaging 6.4yps against 6.2yps and also ran the ball better, averaging 4.2ypr against 4.0ypr. The defense, as usual, was very good allowing 5.2yps against 5.9yps and 4.6yppl against 6.1yppl. Saints qualify in a week one situation, which is 61-20-3 but there is no value in this play. Numbers make this game a pick ?em and predict about 45 points. TB has played here the last six years winning four of the six (four of the last five) and the two losses were by three points each. They have dominated NO in New Orleans. Solid situation favoring NO but no value, past history which suggests they will struggle to cover this game as a favorite along with TB having a much better defense make it hard for me take New Orleans in this game. Tough to get rich laying points with an inferior defense. I will lean their way because of the situation. NEW ORLEANS 24 TAMPA BAY 21
PHILADELPHIA ?7.5 St Louis 44
Philly was above average on offense last year but not as good as they would have liked. Their passing game was just average, gaining 6.0yps against 6.0yps. The running game averaged 4.7ypr against 4.0ypr and they averaged 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl overall. The defense was good again, allowing just 5.1yppl against 5.3yppl and figures to improve with Asante Samuel added to the team this year. Rams were terrible on offense gaining just 5.2yps against 6.1yps and 4.6yppl against 5.1yppl. They suffered numerous injuries to running back, quarterback and offensive line last year. The defense was below average as usual, allowing 5.5yppl against 5.2yppl. Philadelphia qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including subsets, which are 64-34-4 and 42-10-1. Numbers favor Philly by 9.5 points before accounting for the situations and predict about 39 points, based mostly on the anemic offense of the Rams from last year. I don?t see the Rams being able to keep up with the Philly offense. Philly has injuries at the receiver position but they should be able to do enough and I expect their defense to force turnovers as well. PHILADELPHIA 27 ST LOUIS 10
Dallas ?5.5 CLEVELAND 49
Dallas struggled after they beat Green Bay last year. It appeared they thought that was their ticket to the SB as they failed to cover their last five games, including their playoff game against the Giants. They averaged 7.4yps against 6.1yps and 6.0yppl against 5.2yppl overall. The defense was also good allowing just 5.4yps against 5.9yps and 4.9yppl against 5.2yppl. The Browns improved greatly last year on offense. They averaged 4.3ypr against 4.0ypr, 6.6yps against 6.2yps and 5.6yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense struggled, especially against the run, allowing 4.5ypr against 4.1ypr. They allowed 5.4yppl against 5.1yppl overall. They added Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams on the defensive line to improve their run defense. Cleveland applies to a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including subsets, which are 64-34-4, 42-10-1 and 13-1. Numbers favor Dallas by just two points and predict about 54 points. Solid situations on Cleveland and value as well. This line has been bet up from the ?3 or ?3.5 it started at. Cleveland has some injuries but I will take a flyer based on the situations and value. Not real confident in the play but have to trust the numbers and the situations sometimes. May want to wait on this one as I only see it going higher. DALLAS 28 CLEVELAND 27
San Diego ?8.5 CAROLINA 41.5
Chargers covered their last nine games last year after a poor start. Maybe it just took some time for them to adjust to new head coach Norv Turner. SD averaged just 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl on offense. The defense allowed just 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl as well. Carolina really struggled on offense, averaging just 5.1yps against 6.0yps and 4.6yppl against 5.1yppl. They allowed 5.0yppl against 5.3yppl on defense. The poor passing numbers were the product of losing Jake Delhomme at quarterback for the majority of the season. I don?t have any situations on this game and numbers favor SD by 9.5 points and predict about 40 points. I like the potential of the Carolina rushing game and their defense to keep this game closer than the spread. SAN DIEGO 23 CAROLINA 17
Arizona ?2.5 SAN FRANCISCO 42
SF was brutal on offense last year with Alex Smith at qb. They averaged just 4.1yps against 6.1yps and 4.1yppl against 5.2yppl. The defense was average, allowing 5.1yppl against 5.2yppl but 6.3yps against 6.0yps. I would think their offense will get much more efficient this year with J. T. O?Sullivan at qb and Mike Martz now running the offense. They?ll face Arizona who was above average on offense, gaining 5.4yppl against 5.2yppl, including 6.6yps against 6.1yps. The defense was below average allowing 5.2yppl against 5.0yppl. I don?t have any situations on this game. Numbers favor Arizona by 2.5 points and predict about 44 points. These two have historically played pretty high scoring games. Arizona has an above average passing offense and both teams have below average pass defenses. SF should be much improved on offense but until I see it I can?t bank on it. I will lean towards the better team at this point. ARIZONA 24 SAN FRANCISCO 21
INDIANAPOLIS ?9.5 Chicago 44
Indy had great numbers last year that tailed off near the end of the season as they missed Marvin Harrison for a good amount of time. They still ended up averaging 7.0yps against 6.0yps and 5.6yppl against 5.2yppl but their rush offense averaged just 3.8ypr against 4.1ypr. The defense was very good allowing just 3.8ypr against 4.1ypr, 5.3yps against 6.1yps and 4.6yppl against 5.2yppl overall. That was a huge improvement over the year before. The Bears offense was terrible, gaining just 3.1ypr against 4.0ypr, 5.5yps against 6.1yps and 4.5yppl against 5.2yppl. And the defense, with injuries, was just average allowing 5.5yppl against 5.4yppl. Indy qualifies in a week one situation, which is 88-53-5, including a subset, which is 64-34-4. Those situations are not the best part of that situation. Numbers favor Indy by 12 and predict about 44 points. A few question marks for Indy to begin the season. Peyton Manning has missed all of preseason but he should be ready to go. The fact Indy cut two of their reserve quarterbacks tells me they believe Manning is fine. Jeff Saturday, their center, is out for an extended period and that could affect their offense. The Bears are going with Kyle Orton, who is probably less dangerous to them than Rex Grossman. I?m not a big believer in the Bears who have nobody at the receiver position but too many question marks with Indy early in the season to make any best bets on them. INDIANAPOLIS 28 CHICAGO 17
3% PITTSBURGH ?6
3% PHILADELPHIA ?7.5
3% CLEVELAND +5.5
comps
Larry Cook
NFL | Sep 07
St. Louis Rams vs. Philadelphia Eagles
St. Louis Rams +9?-114
3* on St. Louis Rams +9.5
The St. Louis Rams will capitalize on a pair of injuries to the Eagles? two starting receivers. Both Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown are out with injuries, limiting what the Eagles offense will be able to do. The Rams can now zone in on Bryan Westbrook to take away their most effective weapon. You?ll see a heavy dose of Steven Jackson of the Rams tonight as he?s healthy and ready to go this season. Marc Bulger has a plethora of weapons on the outside in St. Louis. This offense will be as good as it has been since the Super Bowl days of Kurt Warner this season. We feel the Rams? defense will hold the Eagles in check, especially with their two starting WR?s out Sunday. This game won?t be as big of a blowout as the line indicates. Bet the Rams on the road.
Dave Price
MLB | Sep 07
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants -124
1 Unit PLAY on S.F. Giants -124 (listing Sanchez)
The Pirates are just 7-19 in their last 26 overall, 26-53 in their last 79 road games, and a pathetic 4-17 in their last 21 during game 3 of a series. The Pirates are also 0-5 in their last 5 games vs. a left-handed starter and that gives the Giants a big edge here. The Giants are 7-3 in their last 10 home games, 10-4 in their last 14 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400, and 5-1 in their last 6 during game 3 of a series. They are also 7-1 in Sanchez's last 8 starts during game 3 of a series. We'll bet the Giants Sunday.
Tony Karpinski
Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 8:15 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -10/105
Indianapolis Colts
This is a rematch of '06 Super Bowl, which wasn't as close as the 29-17 final. Bears now going with Orton over Grossman. It was just a matter of time. But the departure of Benson, Berriman, & Muhammad sure doesn't make matters easier for the Chicago "O", despite moving Hester to WR.
The Colts, believe it or not, finished as the 15th rated "O" team a year ago, so improvement is a must, with the return of Harrison of utmost importance. The Bears are just 5-10 vs the AFC, while Indy will roll big time with Manning in the drivers seat. COLYS by 20
Steve Merril
Kansas City Chiefs vs. New England Patriots (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Total: 43/-113 Under
The Patriots were an explosive offensive team last year and they dominated most of their opponents in the regular season, but they still did not win the Super Bowl and I expect New England to put less emphasis on the regular season games this year. The Patriots? offense is likely to be a bit rusty today as quarterback Tom Brady is playing for the first time after missing the entire preseason. Brady is battling a leg injury and his effectiveness today is a major question mark. He normally does not play in the final exhibition game, but last year he had 41 pass attempts in the second and third preseason games, so his lack of game action will affect him today. The biggest key to a low-scoring game is the fact Kansas City has a terrible offense that averaged just 14.1 points per game and 4.7 yards per play last year (versus opponents that allowed 21.9 ppg and 5.5 yppl). Quarterback Brodie Croyle struggled in the preseason with a 5.7 ypp average and a weak 65.6 QB rating, so it does not appear the Chiefs will be any better on offense this year.
Larry Cook
NFL | Sep 07
St. Louis Rams vs. Philadelphia Eagles
St. Louis Rams +9?-114
3* on St. Louis Rams +9.5
The St. Louis Rams will capitalize on a pair of injuries to the Eagles? two starting receivers. Both Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown are out with injuries, limiting what the Eagles offense will be able to do. The Rams can now zone in on Bryan Westbrook to take away their most effective weapon. You?ll see a heavy dose of Steven Jackson of the Rams tonight as he?s healthy and ready to go this season. Marc Bulger has a plethora of weapons on the outside in St. Louis. This offense will be as good as it has been since the Super Bowl days of Kurt Warner this season. We feel the Rams? defense will hold the Eagles in check, especially with their two starting WR?s out Sunday. This game won?t be as big of a blowout as the line indicates. Bet the Rams on the road.
Dave Price
MLB | Sep 07
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. San Francisco Giants San Francisco Giants -124
1 Unit PLAY on S.F. Giants -124 (listing Sanchez)
The Pirates are just 7-19 in their last 26 overall, 26-53 in their last 79 road games, and a pathetic 4-17 in their last 21 during game 3 of a series. The Pirates are also 0-5 in their last 5 games vs. a left-handed starter and that gives the Giants a big edge here. The Giants are 7-3 in their last 10 home games, 10-4 in their last 14 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400, and 5-1 in their last 6 during game 3 of a series. They are also 7-1 in Sanchez's last 8 starts during game 3 of a series. We'll bet the Giants Sunday.
Tony Karpinski
Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 8:15 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -10/105
Indianapolis Colts
This is a rematch of '06 Super Bowl, which wasn't as close as the 29-17 final. Bears now going with Orton over Grossman. It was just a matter of time. But the departure of Benson, Berriman, & Muhammad sure doesn't make matters easier for the Chicago "O", despite moving Hester to WR.
The Colts, believe it or not, finished as the 15th rated "O" team a year ago, so improvement is a must, with the return of Harrison of utmost importance. The Bears are just 5-10 vs the AFC, while Indy will roll big time with Manning in the drivers seat. COLYS by 20
Steve Merril
Kansas City Chiefs vs. New England Patriots (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Total: 43/-113 Under
The Patriots were an explosive offensive team last year and they dominated most of their opponents in the regular season, but they still did not win the Super Bowl and I expect New England to put less emphasis on the regular season games this year. The Patriots? offense is likely to be a bit rusty today as quarterback Tom Brady is playing for the first time after missing the entire preseason. Brady is battling a leg injury and his effectiveness today is a major question mark. He normally does not play in the final exhibition game, but last year he had 41 pass attempts in the second and third preseason games, so his lack of game action will affect him today. The biggest key to a low-scoring game is the fact Kansas City has a terrible offense that averaged just 14.1 points per game and 4.7 yards per play last year (versus opponents that allowed 21.9 ppg and 5.5 yppl). Quarterback Brodie Croyle struggled in the preseason with a 5.7 ypp average and a weak 65.6 QB rating, so it does not appear the Chiefs will be any better on offense this year.
comps
Charlie Scott
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -1/-118
Cincinnati Bengals
This is an ugly match up , but when we win, the money all spends the same. More of a play against Baltimore than anything else. For the Ravens it's Harbaugh's first game as a head coach, QB Joe Flacco makes his first start, which will be a huge jump from playing at Delaware and RB Ray Rice will see a lot of action. The Veteran Bengals have won 7 out of the last 8 in this matchup and with the low pointspread this trend should hopefully continue.
Frank Jordan
Florida Marlins vs. St Louis Cardinals (MLB) - Sep 7, 2008 2:15 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: 132
Florida Marlins
Florida is in the roll to play spoiler again as the old saying goes misery loves company and there ain't nothing better than knowing you can't get into the playoffs but the next best thing is to knock someone else out. St. Louis has played well this year when everyone pegged them for a down year. Look for Josh Johnson to stay perfect moving to 5-0 with a fish win in St. Louis. Play Florida and GO FISH!
Jacksonville at TENNESSEE (+3) Michael Cannon
Take the points with the home-dog Titans today over the Jaguars.
Jacksonville is everybody?s chic pick to make a run at the Patriots, but I keep harkening back to last year?s meeting in Jacksonville between these two when the Titans piled up 282 yards rushing.
Tennessee is every bit as physical as the Jaguars are, and in some cases more. They have the ability to control the clock with the ground game and wear the Jags front seven down.
Plus they have the addition of rookie first-round pick Chris Johnson, who is lightning-fast and can bust one against a tired front in the second half.
Jacksonville has also had several off the field incidents which could prove to be distracting. The shooting of Richard Collier, the arrests of Fred Taylor and Matt Jones, the list goes on and on for coach Jack Del Rio.
The Titans have been very profitable when catching points with Vince Young, going 14-7 ATS in that role. They are also 8-1 ATS in divisional play and 6-0 ATS as a division dog.
Take the points with the Titans as they grab the cash as the home dog.
3♦ TENNESSEE
Carolina (+9') at SAN DIEGO
Take the points with the Panthers this afternoon when they travel west to face the Chargers.
San Diego is coming off the AFC Championship loss to the Patriots, but they are also a beat-up team right now.
Philip Rivers is seven months removed from knee surgery, Antonio Gates is about 85 percent right now and we all know about Shawn Merriman?s situation with his knee.
Plus LaDainian Tomlinson is coming off a knee injury that kept him out of the championship game for all but a few plays.
And the Chargers are supposed to win by double-digits?
I?ll take my chances with the Panthers, who have a healthy Jake Delhomme back under center and a defense that can play as physical as the Chargers want to.
In fact, it?s the front four of Carolina that I see controlling the line of scrimmage and making things miserable for Tomlinson and Rivers.
I know that Steve Smith is suspended and sitting this one out, but I believe that?s going to force the Panthers to rally in his absence and turn in a gutsy effort.
Take the points with the Panthers as they stay within the number.
3♦ CAROLINA
Charlie Scott
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -1/-118
Cincinnati Bengals
This is an ugly match up , but when we win, the money all spends the same. More of a play against Baltimore than anything else. For the Ravens it's Harbaugh's first game as a head coach, QB Joe Flacco makes his first start, which will be a huge jump from playing at Delaware and RB Ray Rice will see a lot of action. The Veteran Bengals have won 7 out of the last 8 in this matchup and with the low pointspread this trend should hopefully continue.
Frank Jordan
Florida Marlins vs. St Louis Cardinals (MLB) - Sep 7, 2008 2:15 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: 132
Florida Marlins
Florida is in the roll to play spoiler again as the old saying goes misery loves company and there ain't nothing better than knowing you can't get into the playoffs but the next best thing is to knock someone else out. St. Louis has played well this year when everyone pegged them for a down year. Look for Josh Johnson to stay perfect moving to 5-0 with a fish win in St. Louis. Play Florida and GO FISH!
Jacksonville at TENNESSEE (+3) Michael Cannon
Take the points with the home-dog Titans today over the Jaguars.
Jacksonville is everybody?s chic pick to make a run at the Patriots, but I keep harkening back to last year?s meeting in Jacksonville between these two when the Titans piled up 282 yards rushing.
Tennessee is every bit as physical as the Jaguars are, and in some cases more. They have the ability to control the clock with the ground game and wear the Jags front seven down.
Plus they have the addition of rookie first-round pick Chris Johnson, who is lightning-fast and can bust one against a tired front in the second half.
Jacksonville has also had several off the field incidents which could prove to be distracting. The shooting of Richard Collier, the arrests of Fred Taylor and Matt Jones, the list goes on and on for coach Jack Del Rio.
The Titans have been very profitable when catching points with Vince Young, going 14-7 ATS in that role. They are also 8-1 ATS in divisional play and 6-0 ATS as a division dog.
Take the points with the Titans as they grab the cash as the home dog.
3♦ TENNESSEE
Carolina (+9') at SAN DIEGO
Take the points with the Panthers this afternoon when they travel west to face the Chargers.
San Diego is coming off the AFC Championship loss to the Patriots, but they are also a beat-up team right now.
Philip Rivers is seven months removed from knee surgery, Antonio Gates is about 85 percent right now and we all know about Shawn Merriman?s situation with his knee.
Plus LaDainian Tomlinson is coming off a knee injury that kept him out of the championship game for all but a few plays.
And the Chargers are supposed to win by double-digits?
I?ll take my chances with the Panthers, who have a healthy Jake Delhomme back under center and a defense that can play as physical as the Chargers want to.
In fact, it?s the front four of Carolina that I see controlling the line of scrimmage and making things miserable for Tomlinson and Rivers.
I know that Steve Smith is suspended and sitting this one out, but I believe that?s going to force the Panthers to rally in his absence and turn in a gutsy effort.
Take the points with the Panthers as they stay within the number.
3♦ CAROLINA
comps
Craig Trapp
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tennessee Titans (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -3/107
Jacksonville Jaguars
This would definately be one of Craig's premium plays if this team was not having off the field transgressions. All of the positive momentum the Jaguars (11-5) generated with their 2007 season and by locking up quarterback David Garrard to a long-term deal in April has been threatened by some off-the-field episodes. Now the Jaguars (11-5) must put aside the distractions and refocus for a season which many believe could be the one in which they finally wrestle away the AFC South crown from Indianapolis, which has won five straight division titles. Garrard didn't have his best game in the team's wild-card playoff win in Pittsburgh, but in the divisional round against New England he completed 22 of 33 passes for 278 yards and two touchdowns despite the Jaguars' 31-20 loss. The 30-year-old Garrard was rewarded with the richest contract in team history, a six-year, $60 million extension. Garrard's progress along with the running back tandem of Maurice Jones-Drew and Taylor give the Jaguars a potentially potent offense, though the wide receiver position remains a question mark. On the other hand there are many questions for TEN offense. Tennessee's chances to make a return appearance to the postseason are unquestionably tied to quarterback Vince Young, who proved in his second NFL season that he's still a work in progress. They have a very solid back in White but injuries have always hurt him. Most games this competitive come down to QB and coaching and without a doubt JAC beats them at both. Expect it to be low scoring with JAC pulling away in the 4th quarter. SCORE JAC 20 - TEN 13
Vegas Experts
Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts
Two years ago, the Colts beat the Bears by 12 in the Super Bowl. While it can be argued that Indy is not as good as that team, it is certainly true that Chicago is nowhere near as good. The Colts have covered 8 of 9 against NFC teams and the Bears are a team with a deteriorating defense, no skill players at RB and WR and Kyle Orton is their starting QB.
Play on: Indianapolis
Pigskin Prophet
ARI Cardinals 2? 2 2
SF 49ers 42 42 42
The Arizona Cardinals (8-8 SU, 10-6 ATS in 2007) played very well for coach Ken Whisenhunt last season, despite a ton of injuries. They will go with 37-year old QB Kurt Warner for this opener. Warner resurrected his career in 2007, passing for 27 touchdowns and leading the Cardinals offensive surge down the stretch. When Whisenhunt named Leinart the starter in January, he made a point of saying that Warner would have a chance to win the job. The competition was close, Whisenhunt said. Each started two preseason games. Leinart completed 28 of 45 passes (62.2 percent) for 354 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. Warner completed 12 of 17 (70.6) for 142 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions. The defense was average, ranked 17th overall, but 28th against the pass. That's why they drafted CB Dominick Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State) with the 16th overall pick to shore up the pass defense. The 49ers have a very young passing offense under new OC Mike Martz and QB J.T. O'Sullivan. Neither was with the 49ers last season. Martz wants to make TE Vernon Davis the focal point of the offense, plus they add 35-year old WR Isaac Bruce. The Niners switched to a 3-4 defense and they were average against the run, allowing 121 yards per game for the second straight season. Looks like a defensive game, though note the "over" is 7-2 the last 9 meetings. San Fran is 4-11 SU, 5-10 ATS its last 15 as a dog.
Projected Score: ARI Cardinals 23, SF 49ers 17
Craig Trapp
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tennessee Titans (NFL) - Sep 7, 2008 1:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -3/107
Jacksonville Jaguars
This would definately be one of Craig's premium plays if this team was not having off the field transgressions. All of the positive momentum the Jaguars (11-5) generated with their 2007 season and by locking up quarterback David Garrard to a long-term deal in April has been threatened by some off-the-field episodes. Now the Jaguars (11-5) must put aside the distractions and refocus for a season which many believe could be the one in which they finally wrestle away the AFC South crown from Indianapolis, which has won five straight division titles. Garrard didn't have his best game in the team's wild-card playoff win in Pittsburgh, but in the divisional round against New England he completed 22 of 33 passes for 278 yards and two touchdowns despite the Jaguars' 31-20 loss. The 30-year-old Garrard was rewarded with the richest contract in team history, a six-year, $60 million extension. Garrard's progress along with the running back tandem of Maurice Jones-Drew and Taylor give the Jaguars a potentially potent offense, though the wide receiver position remains a question mark. On the other hand there are many questions for TEN offense. Tennessee's chances to make a return appearance to the postseason are unquestionably tied to quarterback Vince Young, who proved in his second NFL season that he's still a work in progress. They have a very solid back in White but injuries have always hurt him. Most games this competitive come down to QB and coaching and without a doubt JAC beats them at both. Expect it to be low scoring with JAC pulling away in the 4th quarter. SCORE JAC 20 - TEN 13
Vegas Experts
Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts
Two years ago, the Colts beat the Bears by 12 in the Super Bowl. While it can be argued that Indy is not as good as that team, it is certainly true that Chicago is nowhere near as good. The Colts have covered 8 of 9 against NFC teams and the Bears are a team with a deteriorating defense, no skill players at RB and WR and Kyle Orton is their starting QB.
Play on: Indianapolis
Pigskin Prophet
ARI Cardinals 2? 2 2
SF 49ers 42 42 42
The Arizona Cardinals (8-8 SU, 10-6 ATS in 2007) played very well for coach Ken Whisenhunt last season, despite a ton of injuries. They will go with 37-year old QB Kurt Warner for this opener. Warner resurrected his career in 2007, passing for 27 touchdowns and leading the Cardinals offensive surge down the stretch. When Whisenhunt named Leinart the starter in January, he made a point of saying that Warner would have a chance to win the job. The competition was close, Whisenhunt said. Each started two preseason games. Leinart completed 28 of 45 passes (62.2 percent) for 354 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. Warner completed 12 of 17 (70.6) for 142 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions. The defense was average, ranked 17th overall, but 28th against the pass. That's why they drafted CB Dominick Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State) with the 16th overall pick to shore up the pass defense. The 49ers have a very young passing offense under new OC Mike Martz and QB J.T. O'Sullivan. Neither was with the 49ers last season. Martz wants to make TE Vernon Davis the focal point of the offense, plus they add 35-year old WR Isaac Bruce. The Niners switched to a 3-4 defense and they were average against the run, allowing 121 yards per game for the second straight season. Looks like a defensive game, though note the "over" is 7-2 the last 9 meetings. San Fran is 4-11 SU, 5-10 ATS its last 15 as a dog.
Projected Score: ARI Cardinals 23, SF 49ers 17
BOB BALFE
NFL Football
Jets/Dolphins Over 36
Who would have thought two months ago that Brett Favre would be playing for the Jets and Chad Pennington then Jets QB would be facing his old team opening week. Pennington has a huge advantage as he knows each and every player on the Jets Defense and can point out their strengths and weaknesses. You know that Brett Favre will do his part in his Jets debut. Both teams have size advantages on offense and should put up enough points to send this OVER the total.
Rams +8.5 over Eagles
This game has classic upset all over it The Rams are getting no respect as Joe Public is betting heavily on the eagles at home. Philadelphia will be without both of their starting WR's today if indeed Brown's doubtful status holds up. The Eagles defense has always allowed teams to run on them and their secondary is not what it used to be in the past even with Samuels at corner. The Rams can run the ball and have a veteran QB in Marc Bulger who can throw to his veteran receivers. McNabb is always a hit or miss performer and it is so typical of Philadelphia sports to bomb out in games like this. This is a big number for the Eagles to be laying in week one. Look for the Rams to cover with a possible upset.
Cardinals/49ers Over 42
The 49ers will be the most improved team in the NFL this year. Last year San Francisco was ready to turn the corner, but injuries slowed them up. Arizona will go with the veteran QB Kurt Warner who has a ton of weapons behind him. J.T. O'Sullivan will be a household name by Thanksgiving. Both teams match up very well against each other and I am expecting a ton of points on the board when this one is done. Take the Over.
Major League Baseball
Rays -135 over Bluejays
Garza/Purcey
NFL Football
Jets/Dolphins Over 36
Who would have thought two months ago that Brett Favre would be playing for the Jets and Chad Pennington then Jets QB would be facing his old team opening week. Pennington has a huge advantage as he knows each and every player on the Jets Defense and can point out their strengths and weaknesses. You know that Brett Favre will do his part in his Jets debut. Both teams have size advantages on offense and should put up enough points to send this OVER the total.
Rams +8.5 over Eagles
This game has classic upset all over it The Rams are getting no respect as Joe Public is betting heavily on the eagles at home. Philadelphia will be without both of their starting WR's today if indeed Brown's doubtful status holds up. The Eagles defense has always allowed teams to run on them and their secondary is not what it used to be in the past even with Samuels at corner. The Rams can run the ball and have a veteran QB in Marc Bulger who can throw to his veteran receivers. McNabb is always a hit or miss performer and it is so typical of Philadelphia sports to bomb out in games like this. This is a big number for the Eagles to be laying in week one. Look for the Rams to cover with a possible upset.
Cardinals/49ers Over 42
The 49ers will be the most improved team in the NFL this year. Last year San Francisco was ready to turn the corner, but injuries slowed them up. Arizona will go with the veteran QB Kurt Warner who has a ton of weapons behind him. J.T. O'Sullivan will be a household name by Thanksgiving. Both teams match up very well against each other and I am expecting a ton of points on the board when this one is done. Take the Over.
Major League Baseball
Rays -135 over Bluejays
Garza/Purcey
Tom Stryker
4* Non-Division Super Play
Philadelphia has certainly let the Eagles faithful down in their last two home openers. Back in 2006, the Green Birds dropped a 30-24 decision to the Giants and, last year, Philly fell to the Skins 20-12. Those two home blemishes will certainly keep Head Coach Andy Reid?s troops focused for this game.
Knocking off St. Louis could prove to be an easy task for Philadelphia. The Rams haven?t been worth a lick in their first game on foreign soil posting a shocking 0-6 SU and ATS record over the past six years. Overall, this St. Louis bunch has been one of the worst road teams in the NFL. As a guest in their last 50 games, the Rams are a stiff 17-33 SU and 18-32 ATS including a pitiful 9-22 SU and ATS in this role matched up against a non-division opponent.
The Eagles are locked into a situation that has been quite profitable over the years. Since December 26th, 1993, Philadelphia has dominated NFC non-division foes at home posting a remarkable 33-11 SU and 31-12-1 ATS mark including a perfect 6-0 SU and ATS priced as a favorite of -7? or more. At press time, the Eagles were laying a touchdown and a tick and they fit this undefeated situation.
Philly quarterback Donovan McNabb is finally healthy and that makes a world of difference for the Green Birds. The Eagles are a tremendous 77-39 SU with McNabb behind center and they have enough veteran personnel to make another run. Philly?s journey to the Super Bowl starts today with a convincing victory over St. Louis. Take Philadelphia!
4* Non-Division Super Play
Philadelphia has certainly let the Eagles faithful down in their last two home openers. Back in 2006, the Green Birds dropped a 30-24 decision to the Giants and, last year, Philly fell to the Skins 20-12. Those two home blemishes will certainly keep Head Coach Andy Reid?s troops focused for this game.
Knocking off St. Louis could prove to be an easy task for Philadelphia. The Rams haven?t been worth a lick in their first game on foreign soil posting a shocking 0-6 SU and ATS record over the past six years. Overall, this St. Louis bunch has been one of the worst road teams in the NFL. As a guest in their last 50 games, the Rams are a stiff 17-33 SU and 18-32 ATS including a pitiful 9-22 SU and ATS in this role matched up against a non-division opponent.
The Eagles are locked into a situation that has been quite profitable over the years. Since December 26th, 1993, Philadelphia has dominated NFC non-division foes at home posting a remarkable 33-11 SU and 31-12-1 ATS mark including a perfect 6-0 SU and ATS priced as a favorite of -7? or more. At press time, the Eagles were laying a touchdown and a tick and they fit this undefeated situation.
Philly quarterback Donovan McNabb is finally healthy and that makes a world of difference for the Green Birds. The Eagles are a tremendous 77-39 SU with McNabb behind center and they have enough veteran personnel to make another run. Philly?s journey to the Super Bowl starts today with a convincing victory over St. Louis. Take Philadelphia!
comps
Gina
Arizona Diamondbacks (71-70) at Los Angeles Dodgers (72-70)
(R) Max Scherzer (0-2, 2.65) vs. (L) Clayton Kershaw (3-5, 4.50 ERA)
The hot Dodgers have won seven straight, while the struggling Diamondbacks have dropped nine of their last 12 games. Go with the surging Dodgers for the sweep of the Diamondbacks this afternoon. Los Angeles has won 10 of its last 14 games versus Arizona, the last 4 meetings at home and is 4-1 in southpaw Clayton Kershaw last five starts at Chavez Ravine
Los Angeles Dodgers -135
Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Texans will have a big assignment against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are tough at home and have covered the spread in nine of its last 13 games at Heinz Field and lost just one game in Pittsburgh last season to the Jaguars.
Pittsburgh Steelers -6?
Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts
Colts' QB Peyton Manning missed the entire preseason and it?s not known if he will play in the opening season game against the Bears. Besides, how will he perform. In addition, Indianapolis defense is hurting with injuries. Even with all these issues, the Colts have more talent then Chicago. Go with the Colts to open up the-new Lucas Oil Stadium with a victory.
Indianapolis Colts -9?
Mr A
Houston at Pittsburgh
The Steelers powerful defense will give the Texans a bad day in Pittsburgh. The Steelers had the #1 defense in the NFL last season and will continue to be a force with almost all of their starters returning this year.
Pittsburgh Steelers -6?
St. Louis at Philadelphia
The Rams were awful last year and an improvement is expected, but not enough to stop the Eagles in Philadelphia. Look for the Eagles offense to hammer St. Louis on the ground.
Philadelphia Eagles -7?
Johnny Guild
Sunday, September 7th, 2008 1:00 PM EST.
New York Jets (0-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-0)
Dolphin Stadium - Miami, Florida
2007 Season Record: New York 4-12; Miami 1-15
2007 Home Record: New York 3-5; Miami 1-7
2007 Away Record: New York 1-7; Miami 0-8
Series: New York (45-39-1 - Miami, 1-0 in playoffs)
Both teams were horrible last season. The Jets pitiable defense was a horror, but the Dolphins? offense was a joke and don?t think it will be much better in the early going of this season. Look for Brett Favre with his new crew to make a statement. Expect a close game, Chad Pennington knows the Jets and will be focus in a significant game between these two teams and their quarterbacks. Take the Jets. New York has won and covered the spread in the last five games in the Sunshine State.
New York Jets -3
Week One Selections:
1:00 PM EST. NY Jets at Miami
New York Jets -3
1:00 PM EST. Detroit at Atlanta
Detroit Lions -3
4:15 PM EST. Dallas at Cleveland
Dallas Cowboys -6
8:15 PM EST. Chicago at Indianapolis Indianapolis Colts -9.5
JB's Computer Plays
2:10 p.m. Cleveland Indians at Kansas City Royals
(L) Cliff Lee (20-2) vs. (R) Zack Greinke (10-9) Cleveland Indians -155
4:10 p.m. New York Yankees at Seattle Mariners
(R) Mike Mussina (17-7) vs. (R) Carlos Silva (4-14) New York Yankees -180
8:05 p.m. Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets
(L) Cole Hamels (12-8) vs. (L) Johan Santana (12-7) New York Mets -140
Gina
Arizona Diamondbacks (71-70) at Los Angeles Dodgers (72-70)
(R) Max Scherzer (0-2, 2.65) vs. (L) Clayton Kershaw (3-5, 4.50 ERA)
The hot Dodgers have won seven straight, while the struggling Diamondbacks have dropped nine of their last 12 games. Go with the surging Dodgers for the sweep of the Diamondbacks this afternoon. Los Angeles has won 10 of its last 14 games versus Arizona, the last 4 meetings at home and is 4-1 in southpaw Clayton Kershaw last five starts at Chavez Ravine
Los Angeles Dodgers -135
Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Texans will have a big assignment against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are tough at home and have covered the spread in nine of its last 13 games at Heinz Field and lost just one game in Pittsburgh last season to the Jaguars.
Pittsburgh Steelers -6?
Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts
Colts' QB Peyton Manning missed the entire preseason and it?s not known if he will play in the opening season game against the Bears. Besides, how will he perform. In addition, Indianapolis defense is hurting with injuries. Even with all these issues, the Colts have more talent then Chicago. Go with the Colts to open up the-new Lucas Oil Stadium with a victory.
Indianapolis Colts -9?
Mr A
Houston at Pittsburgh
The Steelers powerful defense will give the Texans a bad day in Pittsburgh. The Steelers had the #1 defense in the NFL last season and will continue to be a force with almost all of their starters returning this year.
Pittsburgh Steelers -6?
St. Louis at Philadelphia
The Rams were awful last year and an improvement is expected, but not enough to stop the Eagles in Philadelphia. Look for the Eagles offense to hammer St. Louis on the ground.
Philadelphia Eagles -7?
Johnny Guild
Sunday, September 7th, 2008 1:00 PM EST.
New York Jets (0-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-0)
Dolphin Stadium - Miami, Florida
2007 Season Record: New York 4-12; Miami 1-15
2007 Home Record: New York 3-5; Miami 1-7
2007 Away Record: New York 1-7; Miami 0-8
Series: New York (45-39-1 - Miami, 1-0 in playoffs)
Both teams were horrible last season. The Jets pitiable defense was a horror, but the Dolphins? offense was a joke and don?t think it will be much better in the early going of this season. Look for Brett Favre with his new crew to make a statement. Expect a close game, Chad Pennington knows the Jets and will be focus in a significant game between these two teams and their quarterbacks. Take the Jets. New York has won and covered the spread in the last five games in the Sunshine State.
New York Jets -3
Week One Selections:
1:00 PM EST. NY Jets at Miami
New York Jets -3
1:00 PM EST. Detroit at Atlanta
Detroit Lions -3
4:15 PM EST. Dallas at Cleveland
Dallas Cowboys -6
8:15 PM EST. Chicago at Indianapolis Indianapolis Colts -9.5
JB's Computer Plays
2:10 p.m. Cleveland Indians at Kansas City Royals
(L) Cliff Lee (20-2) vs. (R) Zack Greinke (10-9) Cleveland Indians -155
4:10 p.m. New York Yankees at Seattle Mariners
(R) Mike Mussina (17-7) vs. (R) Carlos Silva (4-14) New York Yankees -180
8:05 p.m. Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets
(L) Cole Hamels (12-8) vs. (L) Johan Santana (12-7) New York Mets -140
Teddy Covers
20* NFL Big Ticket (11-3 79% FB Run): $49
Teddy Covers has made huge profits across the board in AFL, NFL, and college football with over +40 units since 2006. Kick off the NFL regular season with this 20* Big Ticket Winner for just $49. This play must win or his next NFL report is yours free.
Buffalo Bills
20* NFL Big Ticket (11-3 79% FB Run): $49
Teddy Covers has made huge profits across the board in AFL, NFL, and college football with over +40 units since 2006. Kick off the NFL regular season with this 20* Big Ticket Winner for just $49. This play must win or his next NFL report is yours free.
Buffalo Bills
ER Sports
NFL Playmaker Report (+120 Units Since 06): $39
Erin Rynning continues his assault on the market after banking nearly +120 units in All Sports since 2006. Get his NFL Playmaker Report for just $49 for Week 1 of the NFL Football Season. If it doesn't win, ER's next football report is yours free.
Tennessee Titians
NFL Playmaker Report (+120 Units Since 06): $39
Erin Rynning continues his assault on the market after banking nearly +120 units in All Sports since 2006. Get his NFL Playmaker Report for just $49 for Week 1 of the NFL Football Season. If it doesn't win, ER's next football report is yours free.
Tennessee Titians
PlusLineSports
Two MLB games today
Sunday September 7, 2008
Game #1
Sunday September 7, 2008:
San Diego(Young) vs Milwaukee(Parra)
Milwaukee -1.5(+127) Runline , Moneyline(-160)
Game Time: 1:05 CST September 7
Game #2
Detroit(Lambert) vs Minnesota(Perkins)
Minnesota -1.5(+115) Runline , Moneyline(-164)
Game time is 1:10 CST Sunday September 7
Two MLB games today
Sunday September 7, 2008
Game #1
Sunday September 7, 2008:
San Diego(Young) vs Milwaukee(Parra)
Milwaukee -1.5(+127) Runline , Moneyline(-160)
Game Time: 1:05 CST September 7
Game #2
Detroit(Lambert) vs Minnesota(Perkins)
Minnesota -1.5(+115) Runline , Moneyline(-164)
Game time is 1:10 CST Sunday September 7
ats lock club anyone or sportsbank,greg roberts?
ats lock club anyone or sportsbank,greg roberts?
thank you.
ats lock club anyone or sportsbank,greg roberts?
thank you.
FRANK ROSENTHAL
MLB
951 PHILLY (GM-2)+120 SB
OVER 7 SB
955 NATS+130 SB
960 CARDS-140
973 TRIBE-155 SB+
977 YANKS-180 SB
NOTE:
PMG=ADVERTISED PITCHERS MUST GO
NFL - WEEK 1
456 DOLPHINS+3.5 SB
457 CHIEFS UNDER 44 SB
463 LIONS-3 SB+
469 RAMS+9.5 SB
471 CBOYS-5 SB+
473 PANTHERS+9.5 SB
476 49ERS+2.5 SB
477 BEARS+10 SB+
UNDER 44 SB
MLB
951 PHILLY (GM-2)+120 SB
OVER 7 SB
955 NATS+130 SB
960 CARDS-140
973 TRIBE-155 SB+
977 YANKS-180 SB
NOTE:
PMG=ADVERTISED PITCHERS MUST GO
NFL - WEEK 1
456 DOLPHINS+3.5 SB
457 CHIEFS UNDER 44 SB
463 LIONS-3 SB+
469 RAMS+9.5 SB
471 CBOYS-5 SB+
473 PANTHERS+9.5 SB
476 49ERS+2.5 SB
477 BEARS+10 SB+
UNDER 44 SB
- Nov 28, 2007
- 8,587
- 18
- 0
