Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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03-12-19 | Bruins -110 v. Blue Jackets | Top | 4-7 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 17 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NHL Game #51 Tuesday 10* Top Play Boston Bruins Money Line (-) @ Columbus Blue Jackets @ 7:05 ET - Each of these teams are coming off a loss. However, while that is newsworthy for the Bruins, it truly is nothing new for the Blue Jackets. The fact is that Columbus is playing with playoff pressure and they continue to, more often than not, wilt under that pressure. The Blue Jackets have now lost 4 of their past 6 games and they've scored an average of only 1.3 goals per game those 6 contests! As for Boston, prior to their 4-2 loss at Pittsburgh, they had won 15 of their past 17 games! High-powered Boston had averaged scoring 3.8 goals per game in their last 13 wins. While the Bruins were off yesterday, the Blue Jackets were at New York getting shutout by the Islanders. That said, Boston has the rest edge here and Columbus has lost 8 of 12 this season when playing the 2nd game of a back to back. The Bruins have won 25 of 37 Tuesday games including 9 of 11 this season. Columbus took 2 out of 3 meetings last season and it is time for a little payback here! 10* BOSTON |
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03-12-19 | Notre Dame -122 v. Georgia Tech | Top | 78-71 | Win | 100 | 5 h 28 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach CBB Game #603 Tuesday 10* Top Play Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-) vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ 2:30 ET in ACC Tournament at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, NC - This line opened up at a -2.5 on Notre Dame even though the Fighting Irish went just 3-15 in ACC action while the Yellow Jackets finished the ACC regular season campaign with a 6-12 mark. Of course this means the odds makers made an egregious mistake, right? That is what the betting markets would lead you to believe as they drove the line down to as low as a -1 and the money line (best play here in my opinion) fell down to the -120 range. In typical contrarian fashion I am against the move here. Keep in mind, Notre Dame only split with Georgia Tech this season but the Irish had 13 more field goal attempts than the Jackets in the road match-up and 10 more in the home match-up. The reasons for the advantage in attempts were edges in rebounding and in turnovers. I look for those areas to continue to be factors here and the Fighting Irish will take advantage of their additional scoring opportunities to advance in the ACC tourney. The Irish went 11-3 SU this season as a favorite. In the past 2+ seasons the Fighting Irish are 21-3 SU when facing a team with a losing record. The Yellow Jackets are playing with road loss revenge here but that is a situation that has seen them go 1-8 SU this season! Georgia Tech is also 1-5 SU in their last 6 games on a neutral court. 10* NOTRE DAME |
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03-11-19 | Pistons v. Nets OVER 221 | Top | 75-103 | Loss | -110 | 15 h 59 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Detroit Pistons @ 7:35 ET - The Nets have stayed under the total in 4 straight games. However, Brooklyn has scored an average of 118 points per game their last 3 games. But, as a result of the under streak, the posted total on this one already dropped from an opener of 222.5 down to a 221 overnight heading into Monday. The Pistons come into this game off an under but, prior to that, the over was 9-1 in Detroit's last 10 games! Also, the over is 10-5 this season in Pistons games against Atlantic Division opponents. Detroit has averaged scoring 121 points per game in its last 4 games. The over in Nets game improves to 14-8 the last 22 times they've entered a game on an under streak of 3 more consecutive games. Both teams have been scoring very well and that continues here. 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |
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03-11-19 | Lightning v. Maple Leafs OVER 6.5 | Top | 6-2 | Win | 100 | 13 h 24 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NHL Game #37 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning @ 7:05 ET - The Maple Leafs are off back to back unders but they had previously gone over the total in 6 straight games. Toronto has averaged scoring 4.3 goals per game their last 8 games. The Lightning have been trending under of late but the Bolts are a very high-powered team. Tampa Bay has averaged 3.9 goals per game on the season. The over is 14-6-1 in Maple Leafs divisional games this season. In March games, the Maple Leafs are 20-12 to the over. The Bolts are converting 28.8% of their power plays this season. The Maple Leafs are converting 26% of their power plays in home games this season. Look for this one to fly over the total. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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03-11-19 | Western Michigan v. Central Michigan -9.5 | Top | 67-81 | Win | 100 | 14 h 47 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #870 Monday 10* Top Play Central Michigan Chippewas (-) vs Western Michigan Broncos @ 7 ET - Central Michigan just played at Western Michigan Friday. Though the game was decided by a 7 point margin, the Chippewas led the game by 15 points at the half. Keep in mind, this followed a 21 point beating that the Chips put on the Broncos when they hosted them in early February. Now, in conference tournament action, the Chippewas again are the host and another beating is likely here. Central Michigan is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against teams with a losing record. Also, the Chips are 11-4 ATS this season when off a game in which they scored 80 or more points. This line dropped from an early opener of 11 down to a 9.5 as of overnight heading into Monday. Western Michigan, versus teams that average 77 points or more, has gone 2-8 ATS this season. The Broncos are a long-term 7-14 ATS in first round tournament games. Western Michigan also is a poor 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games played in the month of March. All signs point to a home blowout here. I normally don't lay big points but the edges here are too strong. Keep in mind the Chippewas won the turnover battle 20-8 when these teams met here last month! 10* CENTRAL MICHIGAN |
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03-10-19 | Bruins v. Penguins OVER 6.5 | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 42 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #29 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Pittsburgh Penguins vs Boston Bruins @ 7:35 ET - Both teams in a back to back spot here. The Bruins hosted the Senators and the Penguins were at Columbus yesterday. Boston has won 13 of their last 14 games and has averaged 3.8 goals per game in those 13 victories. Pittsburgh's last 13 games, prior to yesterday's low-scoring loss, saw the Penguins average scoring 3.6 goals per game. The over is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings between these teams and that includes each of the last 5 meetings in Boston going over the total. Look for another one here as there is a lot of firepower on both of these hockey clubs and with both off low-scoring "grinders" yesterday I expect a barn-burner today to result. Look for this long-term series trend of high-scoring games between the Pens and Bruins to continue here. 10* OVER the total in Pittsburgh |
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03-10-19 | Pacers v. 76ers -5.5 | Top | 89-106 | Win | 100 | 5 h 15 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach NBA Game #506 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Indiana Pacers @ 3:35 ET - It looks like Joel Embiid will be back for this game. Even though the Sixers got blown out by the Rockets in their most recent game they truly were done in by poor shooting. If they had just shot "normal" Philly would have won the game outright. Instead it was a blowout loss but that helps with the line value here actually. The 76ers are a very manageable favorite against a Pacers team that they blew out by 24 in the most recent meetings at Indiana. The Pacers are on a poor 3-11 ATS run in their last 14 road games. The Sixers are very hungry for a win here and will be rejuvenated by the expected return of Embiid and the fact this game is at home. Philly is off back to back losses and they are a perfect 4-0 SU when off B2B straight-up losses this season. Indeed, the 76ers have not lost 3 straight games this entire season and I don't expect that to change here. Indiana is playing this game with home loss revenge but that is a situation that has seen them go 2-5 ATS this season. The Sixers are 36-18 ATS (including 9-3 ATS this season) when off a loss by a double digit margin. Also, Philly is 74-46 ATS long-term in home games. Look for a blowout by the host in this one with a winning margin by double digits expected. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-10-19 | Connecticut v. East Carolina OVER 141.5 | Top | 82-73 | Win | 100 | 6 h 0 m | Show |
The Total of the Year - Rickenbach CBB Game #839 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in East Carolina Pirates vs Connecticut Huskies @ 2 ET - Two of the worst teams in the American Athletic Conference matched up in this season finale. Allowing too many points has been a big part of the problem for both teams. The Huskies tend to forget their defense at home when they have hit the road this season! Connecticut held the Shockers to 65 points at Wichita State in their most recent road game but previously had allowed 77 points per game in their 4 prior road games. The Huskies gave up at least 73 points in all 4 of those road games. As for East Carolina, they've allowed 72 points or more in 7 straight games. In those 7 games, the Pirates have allowed an average of 81.6 points per game. Look for both teams to play very loose in this season finale. Certainly the Pirates are the lesser of the two teams but East Carolina's games had gone over the total in 4 straight games prior to their ugly loss at Wichita State. In those 4 games the Pirates averaged scoring 75.3 points per game. Look for both teams to get into the 70s in this one as it flies over the total. On the season Connecticut is allowing 78 points per game when on the road. The Pirates are allowing 74 points on the season in all their games. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in East Carolina |
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03-09-19 | Tulsa v. Memphis OVER 155.5 | Top | 63-66 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 40 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #707 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Memphis Tigers vs Tulsa Golden Hurricane @ 9:30 ET - Many will look at this total and feel it is too big but I see plenty of value here with the over. Memphis has locked in their seeding for the upcoming AAC Tourney and now at home on senior day. The Tigers are loaded with seniors and will be able to play a loose and relaxed game with no pressure. That will equate to plenty of points in this one as Tulsa certainly is fine with a fast-paced style as well. The first meeting between these teams this season saw the teams combine for 174 points. The Golden Hurricane scored 95 in that game and they enter this game off a confidence-boosting win versus East Carolina. They put up 91 points in that game and even though the Pirates are a bad team, having a huge performance like that does wonders for the confidence of scorers. In other words, look for Tulsa to again be lighting up the scoreboard in this one but, at the same time, Memphis is going to have a huge game in their home finale. The Tigers are off a bit of a grinder at Cincinnati but that is typical Bearcats basketball. Now Memphis will go back into run and gun mode for this one and the Tigers had averaged 90 points per game in their 3 games prior to the loss to Cincy. The Golden Hurricane are 5-1 to the over this season when off a game in which they scored 80 or more points. Tulsa is 4-0 to the over this season in games against teams that average 77 points or more per game. The Tigers are 8-3 to the over in Saturday games this season. 10* OVER the total in Memphis |
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03-09-19 | Wizards v. Wolves OVER 241 | Top | 130-135 | Win | 100 | 10 h 30 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #573 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Timberwolves vs Washington Wizards @ 8:05 ET - The over is a red hot 11-2 in the Wolves last 13 games. The over is 12-2 in the Wizards last 14 games. This is a back to back spot for Washington and they are 29-13 to the over their last 42 when in the 2nd game of a back to back. The Wizards are 9-1 to the over in Saturday games this season. Minnesota is playing this game with revenge and that is a situation that has seen them go 21-9 to the over this season. Also, the Timberwolves are 7-0 to the over in games against teams from the Southeast Division this season. Minnesota is 18-6 to the over when off a game in which they allowed 130 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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03-09-19 | Michigan +3.5 v. Michigan State | Top | 63-75 | Loss | -109 | 12 h 42 m | Show |
The Game of the Year - Rickenbach CBB Game #649 Saturday 10* Top Play Michigan Wolverines (+) @ Michigan State Wolverines @ 8 ET - Both teams have some injury situations but here is the key with that. The lone guy on the report for Michigan is Charles Matthews. Yes he is a starter and a solid player but he struggled and went 1 for 8 from the field with, overall, a very ugly stat line on the game, when these teams met two weeks ago in Ann Arbor. That was his 2nd straight poor game and now, without him, Michigan has won back to back games and played very well. In the loss to the Spartans two weeks ago the Wolverines actually had 10 more field goal attempts than Michigan State but were done in by some sub-par shooting and Matthews was a key contributor to that. With the Spartans currently without Joshua Langford for the season plus Nick Ward (hand) and Kyle Ahrens (back) also having issues, I would argue that the Wolverines injury situation is currently much better than that of the Spartans. At the same time, the fact this game is at Michigan State means we get additional line value as we can grab Michigan as a significant dog here. I'll gladly challenge the Spartans to win this game by more than a single possession (current line 3.5) as the fact is I expect the Wolverines to get their revenge. Michigan had won 3 straight in this series prior to the loss two weeks ago. Michigan State is on a 6-14 ATS run in Saturday games. The Spartans are on a 4-8 ATS run in March games. Michigan is on a 17-2 SU run in March games. The Wolverines also are on a sparking 14-6 ATS run as an underdog! 10* MICHIGAN |
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03-09-19 | Flyers +129 v. Islanders | Top | 5-2 | Win | 129 | 8 h 51 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach NHL Game #13 Saturday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (+) @ New York Islanders @ 7:05 ET - This line looks a little "off" and you know what that usually means. The fact is the Islanders are a very small favorite here considering they are on home ice. This is no mistake though. The game is priced this way because the odds maker sees the same thing I do here. The Flyers are very much alive in the playoff race but off a bad home loss to the Capitals. Philly needs to respond here and surely should. The Flyers had won 17 of 23 games prior to that loss. The Islanders won their most recent home game but previously lost 3 of their last 4 home games! They were held to just a single goal in all 3 of those losses! The Flyers have won 7 of their last 9 road games! The road team is also a perfect 2-0 in the match-ups between these teams this season and the games were decided by a combined score of 10 to 2. Look for the road dominance to continue here. The Islanders have home loss revenge here but have lost 10 of 17 in that situation this season. The Flyers have won 11 of their last 12 games when off a game in which they allowed 3 or more goals. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-08-19 | Jets +135 v. Hurricanes | Top | 8-1 | Win | 135 | 14 h 32 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #75 Friday 10* Top Play Winnipeg Jets Money Line (+) @ Carolina Hurricanes @ 7:35 ET - The Jets have won 17 of 32 road games this season. The Hurricanes have won 18 of 32 home games this season. The point is that, of course, home ice gets factored into these lines but oftentimes that home ice factor is overvalued and I firmly believe that is the case here. Yes these teams are nearly equal on points on the season in the standings (Winnipeg slightly more) but while the Jets are battling for the top spot in their division, Carolina is playing with a lot of pressure on their shoulders. That's because the Hurricanes may not even make the playoffs. So with the Canes playing with playoff pressure and also having lost 4 of last 5 meetings with the Jets, I won't hesitate to back the sizable road dog in this match-up. In home games with posted total of 6 or more goals, Carolina actually has a losing record this season. Also, the Hurricanes have lost 27 of their past 47 games when playing with two days of rest between games. The Canes have lost 4 of 5 this season when they enter a game on an O/U streak of 3 or more overs. Winnipeg has won 25 of 39 when they enter a game with 2 days of rest between games. Also, after a loss by a margin of 2 or more goals, the Jets have won 11 of 17 this season. Look for the Jets to bounce back after a 5-2 loss to the best team (Lightning) in the NHL. 10* WINNIPEG |
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03-08-19 | Wizards v. Hornets OVER 233.5 | Top | 111-112 | Loss | -106 | 14 h 54 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #551 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Washington Wizards @ 7:05 ET - The over is 14-2 in Washington's last 16 games. This is a key divisional battle but I just don't see how this game won't go over the total as both teams have been trending over and they've also trended over in their recent match-ups. 5 of the last 6 meetings between these teams have gone over the total. Charlotte's most recent game stayed under the total but they entered that game having gone over the total in 9 of their 12 prior games. Also, the Hornets most recent game ended up with a ridiculously low total of points scored. Charlotte managed only 84 points against the Heat on Wednesday and the over is a perfect 5-0 this season when the Hornets are off a game in which they were held to 93 points or less. Charlotte held the Heat to just 91 points on Wednesday and the Hornets are 5-0 to the over the last 5 times they are off a game in which they held their opponent under the century mark. Charlotte's divisional games are 8-4 to the over this season. Washington is 9-3 to the over in divisional games this season. The over is 13-6 in Wizards games with posted total of 230 points or more. In other words, though this total may appear to be big, it will prove to once again be not big enough. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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03-08-19 | Minnesota v. Maryland -7 | Top | 60-69 | Win | 100 | 13 h 25 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #854 Friday 10* Top Play Maryland Terrapins (-) vs Minnesota Golden Gophers @ 7 ET - With the Terrapins off back to back losses and the Golden Gophers off back to back wins, the set up here is perfect. We're getting value with a number kept lower than it should be considering this is a situation where Minnesota should get blown out on the road at Maryland. The Terrapins are 6-2 ATS this season when off a SU loss. Also, Maryland has not lost 3 straight games all season. Keep in mind, the Terrapins last two games were at Penn State and then hosting Michigan. Certainly those are not easy match-ups. Also, Maryland is now hosting a Minnesota team that, prior to winning their most recent road game, had lost 6 in a row away from home. The average margin of defeat in those road losses for the Golden Gophers was 11 points! Minnesota is a long-term 18-33 ATS as road dog in a range of 6.5 to 9 points. In games with posted total ranging from 131 to 139.5 points, the Terrapins are on a sparkling 9-1 ATS run. The host in this one is the much better shooting team and also the better team defensively. Factoring all that in there is great value being offered here with this very manageable line. 10* MARYLAND |
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03-07-19 | Pacers v. Bucks OVER 220.5 | Top | 98-117 | Loss | -106 | 15 h 38 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #547 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers @ 8:05 ET - The Pacers are off an under versus the Bulls Tuesday but they actually allowed 93 field goal attempts in that game. A poor shooting night for Chicago helped insure that the game did not go over the total. However, Indiana entered that game on a 5-1 run to the over. As for the Bucks, they are also off of an under. Milwaukee had a poor shooting night at Phoenix Monday. Despite 95 field goal attempts, the Bucks game versus the Suns stayed under the total. Certainly the proper pace was there for an over and that is nothing new in recent Milwaukee games. The Bucks entered that game on a 4-1 run to the over. 2 of the last 3 meetings between the Pacers and Bucks in Milwaukee have gone over the total. The Bucks are happy to be back home and I expect a huge game from them on the offensive end after that shot poorly in back to back games to wrap up their road trip. The over is 27-16 when Milwaukee is off an upset loss as a favorite. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 this season when the Bucks enter a game with two days of rest between games. Indiana is playing this game with home loss revenge and I look for the Pacers over to improve to 5-2 this season when in that situation. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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03-07-19 | Blue Jackets v. Penguins OVER 6.5 | Top | 0-3 | Loss | -125 | 10 h 0 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #51 Thursday 10* OVER the total in Pittsburgh Penguins vs Columbus Blue Jackets @ 7:05 ET - This game has huge implications in the post-season race. That said, it makes sense that this game could be played with playoff intensity. However, when it come to these two teams, that doesn't necessarily translate to tight, defensive-minded hockey. Both these hockey clubs win plenty of games with top-notch firepower. Also, the Blue Jackets are particularly stacked now after the big acquisitions they made prior to the trade deadline. The over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these teams. Even though the Pens have averaged scoring 4 goals per game in their last two games each game did stay under the total. Not only has Pittsburgh been scoring well, the two games were preceded by a stretch that saw the Penguins go 6-1 to the over. The Blue Jackets have not scored well in recent games but, prior to a 2-1 win at New Jersey, Columbus had allowed an average of 4.3 goals per game and gone 3-1 to the over in their last 4 games. The Blue Jackets are playing this game with home loss revenge. That is a situation that has seen them go 27-15 to the over in recent seasons. Columbus lost on home ice to the Penguins a little over a week ago. That was part of a 7-game stretch that saw the Pens allow an average of 3.9 goals per game. You can see that neither team is likely to shut down the other in what should be another high-scoring divisional battle. Though this is "playoff pressure" time, the Penguins are 22-12 to the over in March games! Look for another one here. 10* OVER the total in Pittsburgh |
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03-07-19 | Temple +1.5 v. Connecticut | Top | 78-71 | Win | 100 | 13 h 41 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #603 Thursday 10* Top Play Temple Owls (+) @ Connecticut Huskies @ 7 ET - While it is true that the Owls have a huge game on deck, they are also well aware of the fact that the game versus Central Florida will become much less important if they don't take care of business at Connecticut. The Huskies certainly have not been the same team since Jalen Adams got hurt. UConn is coming off a win versus South Florida Sunday but that victory was preceded by 6 straight losses. Dating all the back to December 22nd, the Huskies have managed back to back wins only ONCE! You can see that, after the win over the Bulls, the odds favor a loss here versus the Owls. As for Temple, they are off a non-covering win versus Tulane. What is noteworthy about the Owls season is they have had only one standalone victory this entire season. In other words, when they get a W it is normally the beginning of a nice streak for Temple and they are hell-bent on closing the season with 3 straight victories. Before even worrying about the Saturday match-up with UCF, the Owls know they need this one. All signs point to them getting it. The Owls are 4-0 SU and ATS this season as a road dog of 3 or less points. The Huskies are 1-3 SU this season when off a game in which they scored 60 points or less. Connecticut is also 6-12 SU (and 5-13 ATS) when in that situation the last few seasons. UConn has been held to 63 points or less in 5 straight games and also managed only 63 in the first match-up with Temple this season. The Owls have scored 70 points or more in 7 of their last 8 games. 10* TEMPLE |
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03-06-19 | 76ers -5 v. Bulls | Top | 107-108 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 3 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #539 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Chicago Bulls @ 8:05 ET - Both teams in a back to back spot here. This line opened up at a -6 and dropped to a -5 on Philly. Although the Bulls have won some games recently those victories have almost all come over poor teams with losing records. One exception was the Celtics but Boston was in a funk at the time. The fact is that Chicago is an ugly 4-24 SU this season in games against teams with a winning record. The 76ers are a solid 17-6 SU this season in games against teams with a losing record. You can see why the likelihood is high that the Sixers get the win. That said, the pointspread dropping to a -5 offers significant value here. 38 of the Bulls 46 losses this season have come by a margin of at least 5 points. Philadelphia has had a lot of rest prior to this back to back situation so that sets them up well. Yesterday's win over Orlando was just the 3rd game for the 76ers in the past 8 days. The Bulls, conversely, will be playing for the 4th time in 6 days. Chicago is 6-14 ATS (1-19 SU!) in their last 20 home games that had a posted total of 220 points or more. The Sixers are on a 23-12 ATS run in March games. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-06-19 | Capitals v. Flyers +110 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #42 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (+) vs Washington Capitals @ 7:35 ET - Home ice has been important in meetings between these divisional foes. The home teams has won 7 of the past 9 meetings. Even though the Capitals enter this game having won 4 straight games, they had previously lost 12 of 19. The Flyers, long-term, have certainly been the hotter team. Philadelphia enters this match-up having won 16 of their last 21 games. Even though Voracek is expected to miss this game tonight and Patrick also might not be back just yet for the Flyers tonight, they are off a huge 4-1 win over the Islanders Sunday that was played (essentially) without both of them. Voracek missed the entire game and Patrick got hit within the first few minutes of the game. Philly did get good news on both players and I would not be surprised to see Patrick back on the ice tonight. As for Voracek he is likely out until Thursday at least. But the point is the Flyers continued to play very well even without these guys Sunday. The Capitals enter this game off back to back road wins. Since the calendar turned the page to 2019 however, Washington has never managed 3 straight road wins. In fact, prior to these back to back road wins, the Caps had lost 7 of their past 12 road contests. The Flyers have won 10 of their last 13 games on home ice and one of those 3 losses was to league-leading Tampa Bay. Great value here with the home dog. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-06-19 | LSU +1.5 v. Florida | Top | 79-78 | Win | 100 | 9 h 1 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #787 Wednesday 10* Top Play LSU Tigers (+) @ Florida Gators @ 7 ET - This is a triple revenge spot for the Tigers. Not only did they lost to the Gators in their meetings each of the last two seasons, LSU also lost this season's first match-up (in OT) versus Florida two weeks ago. The fact is that the Tigers are a perfect 8-0 on the road in SEC action this season and have been playing extremely well overall with only two losses in their 19 games dating back to mid-December. The Tigers have one of the best point guards in the nation and behind him is a freshmen who played very well during his recent two game absence. The depth of LSU at the point is a key to why this offense functions as well as it does. While the Gators are averaging only 68.3 points per game on the season, the Tigers have averaged 81.8 points per game this season. The Gators are off a home loss to Georgia. Of course that should mean a bounce back is expected here. However, Florida has been on a money-burning stretch for an extended stretch now as they've failed to cover 9 of their last 12 games. LSU is on a 4-1 SU and ATS run as a road dog of 3 or less points. The Gators are 3-11 ATS in home games this season. Florida motivated here by hopes of an NCAA Tournament bid this season but Tigers highly motivated by revenge as well as being in the driver's seat for finishing at the top of the SEC standings for the regular season. 10* LSU |
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03-05-19 | Rockets v. Raptors OVER 226.5 | Top | 107-95 | Loss | -108 | 15 h 24 m | Show |
TNT Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #519 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Raptors vs Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - The Rockets burned me bad on Sunday, though they beat the Celtics at Boston. The problem was that Houston scored extremely well each of the first 3 quarters but then in the 4th they didn't even total half the amount of points they did in any of the first 3 quarters. The result was a painful bad beat with the over in that situation Sunday and I won't hesitate to come right back with the over here after that was one of the worst beats of the season for sure. The total on this game at Toronto opened up at a 228.5 but has dropped to a 226.5 as of very early Tuesday morning. This is offering us great line value here. The Raptors have gone over the total in 5 of their last 7 games. Toronto is off a loss at Detroit where they scored only 107 points. Prior to that poor effort they had scored 118 points or more in 12 of their last 16 games. The Rockets were held to 115 at Boston due to a horrific 4th quarter but Houston entered that game having scored 118 points or more in 9 of their 12 prior games. You can see from these numbers why it is logical to expect this game to get to the mid-230s and yet the posted total has dropped to mid-220s. In terms of technical value, the over is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings between these teams. Toronto also has revenge here and that is a situation that has seen them go 13-5 to the over this season. The Raptors also are 7-1 to the over this season in their games against Southwest Division opponents. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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03-05-19 | Hurricanes v. Bruins OVER 5.5 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 13 h 4 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #23 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Bruins vs Carolina Hurricanes @ 7:05 ET - This total opened up at a 6 but has dropped to a 5.5 in some books (and I expect others to follow) as of early morning Tuesday. I do understand the move as this is a key battle with plenty of impact on the playoff picture. Also, the Bruins have been trending under in recent weeks. However, the fact is that both of these teams have plenty of firepower up front. Also, the Hurricanes enter this game having gone over the total in 3 straight games and 4 of their last 5. The Canes have scored an average of 4.4 goals per game in their last 5 games. The Bruins are off a 1-0 shutout win and have won 10 of their last 11 games. Prior to registering the the tightest of low-scoring wins, Boston had scored an average of 3.8 goals per game in their 10 prior games. You can see why it would not be a surprise to see one of these teams score 4 goals tonight and yet we're dealing with a total of only 5.5 on this game. Also, note that the last 6 times these teams have matched up 5 of the meetings have gone over the total. This is a contrarian play for sure as the markets are taking this game the other way but I feel the odds makers had this one correct with their initial number (6) posted as this total on this one. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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03-05-19 | Xavier v. Butler OVER 138 | Top | 66-71 | Loss | -109 | 13 h 37 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #601 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Butler Bulldogs vs Xavier Musketeers @ 6 ET - Butler's game at Villanova stayed under the total but they entered that game having gone over the total in 4 straight games. All signs point to the over trend resuming here. The Bulldogs have allowed 49% or more from the field in 3 of their last 4 games. Also, Butler has allowed 48% or more from the field in 7 of their last 10 games. On Tuesday they are hosting a Xavier team that has been red hot with their shooting. The Musketeers have averaged well over 50% from the field in their last 4 games and also have been consistently knocking down close to 40% of their threes during this stretch. The over only went 2-2 in those 4 games and Xavier is on a long-term under trend but that is helping keep this total lower than it should be. In fact it opened up as high as 140 but is now down to a 138 as of early Tuesday morning. This has led to even more value with the over. The last 6 meetings between these teams have seen 5 go over the total. The Musketeers are on a long-term 9-5 run to the over in games with a posted total in the 130s. Also, Xavier is a long-term 9-5 to the over as a road dog in a range of 3.5 to 6 points. When off a win against a Big East foe this season the Musketeers are 5-2 to the over. Also, there is a "tightener" in all this and that is that Xavier is a perfect 5-0 to the over the last 5 times they've been on the road in a game with a posted total between 135 and 139.5 points. Butler is 8-1 to the over the last 9 times they've been a home favorite in a range of 3.5 to 6 points. In home games with a posted total between 135 and 139.5 points, the Bulldogs are on a 6-1 run to the over. 10* OVER the total in Butler |
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03-04-19 | Texas v. Texas Tech -8 | Top | 51-70 | Win | 100 | 12 h 58 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #868 Monday 10* Top Play Texas Tech Red Raiders (-) vs Texas Longhorns @ 9 ET - The Longhorns are still without the suspended Kerwin Roach. Though they won Saturday versus Iowa State, they lost their two prior games without him. I know this spread may seem "big" but it is not without support. The Longhorns and Red Raiders have a huge rivalry and the Horns had dominated Texas Tech in games played in Austin prior to the Red Raiders road win earlier this season. How does that relate to this game? The fact is that Texas Tech won't hesitate if given the chance to blowout the Longhorns in Lubbock. I feel this one is set up perfect for that to happen as the Horns do battle without their leading scorer. Texas has scored very well in their last two games but I consider that an aberration as they shot the ball ridiculously well. Prior those two games the Horns had averaged just 66.7 points in their 3 prior games and now they face the top defense in the Big 12. Texas Tech enters this game having won 7 in a row and 6 of those wins came by at least a dozen points! Though the Red Raiders most recent home win came by just 4 points, their 4 most recent home wins prior to that each came by 19 points or more! The Longhorns are 3-10 SU and 5-8 ATS their last 13 games with one day of rest or less between games. The Red Raiders, same parameters, are 8-4 SU and ATS their last dozen and that includes a perfect 3-0 SU and ATS this season! Additionally, Texas Tech is 7-0 SU (and 5-1-1 ATS) as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points in recent seasons. Red Raiders are highly motivated for #1 spot in Big 12 and put a beating on the short-handed Horns here. 10* TEXAS TECH |
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03-04-19 | Maple Leafs v. Flames OVER 6.5 | Top | 6-2 | Win | 100 | 11 h 56 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #19 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Calgary Flames vs Toronto Maple Leafs @ 9:05 ET - The Flames last 6 games have featured ZERO overs as none of the 6 totaled more than 6 goals and, in fact, the games averaged only 4 goals apiece. That is why this play (an OVER for me) is a contrarian play and, as always, it is not without good reasoning. The fact is the Flames had won 7 in a row before their home loss to Minnesota on Saturday. Note that Calgary is 5-1 to the over the last 6 times they have entered a game off a loss. The Flames finally got burned by trying to beat teams in a low-scoring battle. That said, just like after their other recent losses, Calgary responds with offense early and often in this one. The Flames are loaded with skill and talent and will take advantage of a Maple Leafs team that had allowed 3 or more goals in 9 of their last 12 games before their 5-2 win over the Sabres Saturday. Toronto is 5-0 to the over their last 5 games and I expect each team to get to at least 3 goals here which, if that occurs, guarantees no less than a 4-3 final and a winning ticket with this play. The Maple Leafs have scored 4 or more goals in 9 of their last 14 games. Also, the Leafs have scored 5 or more goals in 4 of their last 5. Toronto is 13-6 to the over when off a divisional game this season. The Flames are 20-6-3 to the over in their 29 home games this season that had a posted total of 6 or more goals. Look for a barn-burner in this one with plenty of end to end action leading to lots of goals. 10* OVER the total in Calgary |
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03-04-19 | Nuggets +1.5 v. Spurs | Top | 103-104 | Win | 100 | 12 h 18 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #505 Monday 10* Top Play Denver Nuggets (+) @ San Antonio Spurs @ 8:35 ET - The Spurs are 3-0 ATS in their last 3 meetings with the Nuggets and that includes covering both match-ups this season. Those games took place in late December. The Spurs were favored by 4 when they hosted the Nuggets the day after Christmas. Now, the first lines that popped up on this game yesterday afternoon had Denver as a 2 point favorite. Of course the markets are jumping all over the perceived "mistake" and have now moved the line to San Antonio being the favorite. I understand the perception but that doesn't mean I agree with it! The Nuggets are only a game over .500 in road games this season while the Spurs are 24-7 on their home floor this season. But I am here to tell you that the Nuggets are the much better overall team in comparison with this season's version of the Spurs. Yes San Antonio is off back to back wins but they previously lost 7 of their 8 prior games. I know those games were on the road but the Spurs also got blown out by double digits by the Nets and Knicks! Catching one of the best teams in the league now off back to back losses and we're not even having to lay any points (thanks to being on the road and thanks to the market action), the Nuggets are the play here. They led the Spurs by double digits at half when these teams most recently met but had a rare bad game in terms of turnovers and allowed San Antonio to close that gap in the 2nd half and lose by just 3 points. That result also now giving us some line value here as the Nuggets have substantial edges all over the floor in this match-up. The last 6 times the Nuggets have entered a game on a losing streak of 2 or more games SU, they've gone 5-1 SU and I expect another win here in that situation. The Spurs, prior to back to back covers against the Pistons and Thunder, had gone 1-10 ATS in their 11 previous games! By the way, San Antonio was outshot by a combined 16 shots from the field in the games against Detroit and OKC. That catches up with the Spurs in this one and the Nuggets pull away as this game gets into the latter stages. 10* DENVER |
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03-03-19 | Jets +116 v. Blue Jackets | Top | 5-2 | Win | 116 | 7 h 6 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #11 Sunday 10* Top Play Winnipeg Jets Money Line (+) @ Columbus Blue Jackets @ 7:05 ET - Great value spot here with the Jets. The Blue Jackets are in a back to back spot. Columbus got blasted 4-0 on home ice yesterday. The Jackets are feeling the playoff pressure as they've lost 5 of their last 9 games. Columbus also has lost 7 of 11 this season when playing the 2nd game of a back to back. Winnipeg has won 8 of 9 games on Sundays this season and has the added edge here as they were off yesterday while Columbus was in action. The Jets have won 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. The Blue Jackets have lost 6 of last 11 games against teams with a winning record. Winnipeg still has a legitimate shot at being the #1 seed in the West this season. Conversely, Columbus may not even make the playoffs. I am aware that the Jets have struggled some of late but they are still the superior team in comparison with the Blue Jackets and the situational edges for Winnipeg are big here. Columbus has lost 4 of its last 6 on home ice. The Jets are 25-10 in Sunday games last 3 seasons combined so their ability to get it done (8-1 this season) on Sundays is not a fluke. Grab the value with the road dog here. 10* WINNIPEG |
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03-03-19 | Rockets v. Celtics OVER 225 | Top | 115-104 | Loss | -102 | 6 h 35 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #575 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Houston Rockets @ 3:35 ET - The very first number that popped up on this total offshore yesterday was a 229.5 and now, as of early this morning, the total has dropped down to as low as a 225 in many books. I understand the market perception here as the Celtics are known for their defense but lets not forget this is still a non-conference match-up. I like overs in non-conference match-ups as a general rule because you generally don't see the same defensive intensity you see in, for example, a key divisional battle. The last two meetings between these teams, including the match-up this season in Houston, have each totaled 240 points or more. The Rockets enter this game having averaged 118 points per game their last 13 games. Boston's last two home games have stayed under the total but, prior to this, the Celtics were on a 5-0 run to the over in home games. Also, even including their last 2 games (unders), Boston has allowed an average of 112 points per game in their last 11 games overall. Since the All Star break a Celtics offense that had been red hot before the break, has had its share of struggles. However, on Sunday they will take advantage of a Rockets defense that is allowing 111 points per game this season. This is the Celtics 3rd game of their homestand and I look for them to light it up. The Rockets have allowed 114.3 points per game in their last 6 games. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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03-03-19 | Tulane v. Temple OVER 146 | Top | 69-80 | Win | 100 | 6 h 43 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #821 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Temple Owls vs Tulane Green Wave @ 2 ET - There is unlikely to be very much defensive intensity in this match-up. The Owls are one of the top teams in the AAC while the Green Wave are the worst team in the conference. We're getting a little extra line value here because this season's first match-up between these teams stayed under the total. Keep in mind, the over was on a 5-0 run prior to that. Tulane is also a long-term 17-5 to the over when playing with home loss revenge. The Green Wave also are 4-1 to the over this season as a road dog of 12.5 or more points. Temple is 9-4 to the over in home games this season. Also, the Owls are a long-term 4-1 to the over when facing teams that allow an average of 77 points or more per game. The Green Wave enter this game having allowed 82.3 points per game their last 7 games. Tulane has averaged a respectable 73.7 points per game their last 3 games. Temple has scored 81 points or more in 5 of its last 6 home games in American Athletic Conference action. The Owls have allowed 74.6 points per game their last 5 games. You can see why I am expecting this game to get into the 150s or even 160s early Sunday afternoon. 10* OVER the total in Temple |
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03-02-19 | Warriors v. 76ers +5 | Top | 120-117 | Win | 100 | 9 h 29 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #564 Saturday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (+) vs Golden State Warriors @ 8:35 ET - This line opened up at a -4 on the Warriors and quickly jumped up to a -5 as the markets are loving backing Golden State here since they have revenge from earlier this season. Also, with Joel Embiid and Boban Marjanovic out for the Sixers that has captured attention as well. What is getting overlooked however is that the Warriors are playing their 3rd game in 4 nights and Klay Thompson is dealing with a sore knee. They may rest him here. Additionally, the Sixers are at home and playing for just the 2nd time in 5 nights. This is part of a stretch where Philadelphia plays only 3 games in 8 days as they have two more days off after this game. From a scheduling standpoint this situation is a great one for Philly and you know that the Wells Fargo Center will be rocking with the defending NBA champs in town. The Sixers are hungry to prove they are a legitimate threat for the NBA title. Even without Embiid, this team is highly talented with Jimmy Butler, Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris, and JJ Redick. The betting public loves the Warriors but Golden State is on a 2-10 ATS skid. The Sixers are 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS against Pacific Division opponents this season. The 76ers are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games overall and one of those two losses came by just points. We're catching 5 here and the home dog Sixers have a great shot at the outright upset as the Warriors have lost 4 of their last 6 SU. One of those two Golden State SU wins came by just two points. Grab the generous points being offered here. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-02-19 | Sabres v. Maple Leafs -1.5 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 106 | 9 h 46 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #72 Saturday 10* Top Play Toronto Maple Leafs Puck Line -1.5 goals (+105) vs Buffalo Sabres @ 7:05 ET - Perfect set up here. The Sabres are off a huge upset win (in overtime) over the Penguins last night. The Maple Leafs were resting (physically) last night but getting fired up (emotionally) as they got blasted 6-1 by the Islanders at New York on Thursday. With Buffalo set up for a letdown and Toronto set up for a blowout home win, that is why the Leafs are a very big favorite here on the money line. Though I would never lay a huge money line price, we can still capture the value of this situation by grabbing Toronto on the puck line. Yes the Maple Leafs must now win the game by two goals but, given the situation, this absolutely should be a home blowout. The Sabres will likely start Carter Hutton tonight between the pipes since Linus Ullmark got the start last night. In Hutton's last two starts Buffalo surrendered 5 goals in each game. Both those were on the road and the Sabres have now lost 5 straight road games and only one of the 5 defeats came by a single goal. Overall, Buffalo's last 7 goals have seen 6 come by a margin of 2 or more goals. The Sabres are on a 5-19 run in road games with a posted total of 6 or more goals. Toronto is 15-4 this season after allowing 4 or more goals in their prior game. Each of the Maple Leafs last 5 wins have come by a margin of 2 or more goals. Look for this one to do just that as well! 10* TORONTO Puck Line -1.5 goals |
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03-02-19 | North Carolina -4.5 v. Clemson | Top | 81-79 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 15 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CBB Game #665 Saturday 10* Top Play North Carolina Tar Heels (-) @ Clemson Tigers @ 6 ET - Clemson is at home here and they've gone 12-3 at home this season while North Carolina is 10-3 away from home on the season. Of course that is what is keeping this line lower than it should be. I expect the Tar Heels to blast the Tigers here. There are a number of key factors that support that theory. One of which is that UNC lost here by 4 last season. Clemson hit 15 of 30 threes in that game. That had a lot to do with it and the Tar Heels had won 10 straight over the Tigers before that game. In other words, this is a big-time payback spot. In games against the ACC teams that currently have 20 wins, North Carolina lost to Virginia but beat Duke, Virginia Tech, NC State (twice), and Florida State. Now lets talk about how Clemson has done in facing top tier teams. The Tigers did beat Virginia Tech but they have lost to Florida State (twice), Duke, Virginia, and NC State. You can easily see that when it comes time to step in big games this season the Tar Heels have risen to the occasion while the Tigers have faltered. Look for that to be the case again Saturday. UNC still has a shot to finish at the top of the ACC if they win out and, if you were worried about motivation here, the fact the Tar Heels lost here last season dismisses that notion. As for Clemson they are surely motivated too but they have proven time and time again this season they can not beat the top tier teams in the ACC. In fact, I should have mentioned the other two 18-win teams - Syracuse and Louisville. Clemson lost to both of them as well. So the over-rated Tigers are 1-7 against top ACC competition. The Tar Heels beat Syracuse and went 1-1 against Louisville. So the deserved #5 team in the nation is a combined 7-2 against top ACC competition. Considering these factors, plus revenge, plus a short number to lay here, and we've got tremendous value here with the road favorite. Clemson is 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS as an underdog this season. The Tar Heels are 9-2 SU and ATS in road games this season. 10* NORTH CAROLINA |
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03-01-19 | Blazers +5 v. Raptors | Top | 117-119 | Win | 100 | 11 h 51 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #541 Friday 10* Top Play Portland Trail Blazers (+) @ Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - Both teams are off wins over the Celtics. Even though the Raptors have an extra day of rest here in comparison with the Blazers, the fact is that the win over Boston was a much bigger victory for Toronto than Portland. Of course that is because the Celtics are divisional rivals of the Raptors. Note that the first 12 times this season that Toronto has been off a divisional game, they've covered their next game just 3 times. That is a poor 25% ATS rate for the Raptors when off a divisional game this season and, again, that win over Boston wasn't just "any" divisional game! Some will be looking to Toronto to get revenge here too because they lost the first game at Portland this season. However, that game against Boston meant a helluva lot more to the Raptors than this game does. Also, Toronto swept the Trail Blazers last season so it is Portland that is now looking to return the favor this season. The Blazers enter this game red hot as they are on a 5-0 SU and ATS run. As for the Raptors, they had failed to cover 5 straight games before the big win over the Celtics. Look for Toronto to drop to 4-9 ATS in Friday games this season while the Blazers add to an impressive record in March games that is 25-6 SU and ATS the past two seasons! Also, the Trail Blazers are 6-2 ATS (and 8-0 SU!) against Atlantic Division opponents. 10* PORTLAND |
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03-01-19 | Penguins v. Sabres OVER 6.5 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 8 h 9 m | Show |
Rickenbach NHL Game #49 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Buffalo Sabres vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - The Penguins are off a big 5-2 win at Columbus. The over is now 5-1 in their last 6 games. The Sabres are off a 5-2 loss at Philadelphia. The over is now a perfect 3-0 in their last 3 games. Buffalo is going to struggle to slow down a powerful Pittsburgh team as the Sabres have allowed 4 or more goals in 5 of their past 7 games! As strong as the Pens are in the offensive zone they are dealing with a cluster of injuries to their blue line. Couple that with the fact that the Penguins strength is also truly not between the pipes and you have a nice "recipe" here for an over. The over is 14-6-1 in Buffalo's last 21 games. The Sabres are 4 for 12 on the power play in their last 3 games. Pittsburgh is 5 for 14 on the power play in their last 6 games. The Penguins also have allowed their opponents to convert 5 of 11 power play opportunities in their last 3 games. The Pens are a long-term 71-42 to the over after scoring 4 or more goals in their prior game. Also, this season Pittsburgh has gone 13-7 to the over when off a win in which the victory margin was 2 or more goals. Look for these trends to continue here. 10* OVER the total in Buffalo |
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03-01-19 | Rhode Island v. Dayton -7 | Top | 72-70 | Loss | -106 | 11 h 40 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CBB Game #860 Dayton Flyers vs Rhode Island Rams @ 7 ET - The earliest number on this game was a -9 yesterday. As of this morning the line is down to a -7 on Dayton. I understand what the markets are looking at here. This is a revenge spot for the Rams considering the Flyers routed them on their home floor 3 weeks ago. However, the thought that Rhode Island automatically bounces back and gets the cover here is not that well-founded. The fact is last season the Rams beat the Flyers by double digits in both games! In other words, how these games play out has a lot to do with the talent of each team each season and, this year, it is the Flyers turn to get the sweep! They lost by 25 at Rhode Island last season and also were beaten by the Rams by 14 in Dayton. Again, the same season revenge is over-played. If anything, it is the Flyers (the far superior team this season) that really has revenge here as they remember what happened on their home floor last season. Another key to the value here is Dayton is off a game against one of the Atlantic Ten's worst teams and has another weak foe on deck. In other words, the Flyers are fully focused on the Rams here. Dayton has been shooting the ball extremely well and that includes from beyond the arc particularly when on their home floor. Rhode Island is off a rare win where they shot the ball well but they faced a bad George Washington team. Prior to that victory, the Rams were held to 37.5% or less from the field in 5 straight games! RI went 0-5 SU and ATS in those games. Rhode Island is 2-9 SU and ATS in their 11 lined road games this season. The Flyers are 8-0 SU and 6-2 ATS in their 8 line games against teams with a losing record this season. Home blowout on tap in this one! 10* DAYTON |
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02-28-19 | 76ers +8 v. Thunder | Top | 108-104 | Win | 100 | 12 h 33 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach NBA Game #539 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Oklahoma City Thunder @ 8:05 ET - With big men Joel Embiid and Boban Marjanovic sidelined for this one, there has been a huge jump in the line. The very first number that was posted offshore yesterday was a 5 and now this line is up to an 8. Keep in mind, the Sixers still have ton of talent on the floor with Ben Simmons, Jimmy Butler, Tobias Harris, and JJ Redick. Also, Jonah Bolden and Mike Scott are capable of putting up some solid numbers with both Embiid and Marjanovic expected to be out for this game. We're getting a ton of value here with the big points being offered. The Thunder stole one from the Sixers last month in Philly and the 76ers haven't forgotten that game. The fact is that Oklahoma City has had the Sixers number in recent years but of course this season is the best 76ers team they've faced in a long time. Again, even with Embiid and Marjanovic out, I don't see this being an easy win at all for the Thunder. Philly is hell-bent on getting revenge here and Oklahoma City is on an 0-4 ATS skid as the only SU win they have during this stretch came by a single point. For those of you that like statistical odds too, the fact is that there is an interesting pattern with Philly this season. They have 39 wins on the season and, amazingly, they have had only 3 standalone wins. What I mean by that is when the Sixers are off a win that followed a loss they almost always follow it with another win. They have 14 streaks of 2 or more wins. They have had only 3 occurrences where they produced just a single win and all those were in calendar year 2018. In other words, don't be surprised if Philadelphia shocks and gets the outright upset win here but, of course, I am grabbing the points with the 76ers as added insurance! The Sixers are 36-17 ATS including 5-1 ATS (and SU!) this season when playing with home loss revenge. The Thunder are 1-9 ATS (and 3-7 SU!) when off a division game. Could be a shocker in OKC tonight. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-28-19 | Old Dominion +1.5 v. Texas-San Antonio | Top | 65-64 | Win | 100 | 11 h 39 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #667 Thursday 10* Top Play Old Dominion Monarchs (+) @ UTSA Roadrunners @ 8 ET - They were ahead by 17 points with under 3:10 to play. They were ahead by 8 points with under 1:20 to play. They were ahead by 6 points with under 45 seconds to play. They were ahead by 4 points with under 35 seconds to play. They ended up losing the game by a single point. Of course I am talking about the Monarchs first match-up with the Roadrunners which also took place at UTSA and was played in late January. That makes this a major revenge spot for Old Dominion as that game was truly one of the most insane finishes of the entire college basketball season and the Monarchs were on the wrong end of it. Because this game is again at San Antonio we're getting line value here as we don't even have to lay any points to have Old Dominion with big-time revenge on their side. Why are they again meeting in San Antonio? It is because Conference USA made a decision to go to a bonus play-in system this season which then sets the seeding for the upcoming conference tourney. There are 3 groups of seeds and Old Dominion and UTSA are in the group that is seeded 1 through 5. That means Monarchs and Roadrunners can each finish as high as #1 or as low as #5 in the seeding for the upcoming tourney. Old Dominion already won their first game Saturday. For UTSA, this is their first game of the play-in schedule. Not only do the Monarchs badly want revenge here, they also are going for the #1 seed in the tourney. Old Dominion has proven themselves as the top team in CUSA this season and they will show that on the floor in San Antonio tonight. The Monarchs have won 11 of their last 12 games and the lone loss was the ridiculous 1-point defeat at UTSA. The Roardrunners are just 5-5 their last 10 games and that includes that miracle win over Old Dominion. I am well aware of the fact that UTSA is on a 10-game winning streak on their home floor. But that is all the more incentive for the better team in this match-up as they get payback in a major way tonight. Also, the Roadrunners will be very rusty here as they have not played since the 16th - a span of nearly two weeks! 10* OLD DOMINION |
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02-28-19 | Maple Leafs v. Islanders OVER 5.5 | Top | 1-6 | Win | 100 | 8 h 15 m | Show |
Shocker of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #33 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Islanders vs Toronto Maple Leafs @ 7:05 ET - I am well aware of the fact that head coach Barry Trotz has done a great job with the Islanders and that they are more of a defensive-minded team under his leadership. However, getting a 5.5 with a total involving the Maple Leafs in a superb situation is simply too good to pass up. The Maple Leafs are in a back to back spot and that means Garrett Sparks is likely to get the start between the pipes. He hasn't started a game in over two weeks and will be rusty here plus that start was a 4-1 loss for him. Also, Toronto is without a pair of defensemen, Jake Gardiner and Travis Dermott, for this one. The Maple Leafs aren't known for defense as it is and you can see why that is likely to be a key weakness tonight. What Toronto is known for is scoring goals and they enter this game having scored 5 or more goals in 3 straight games and 4 or more goals in 8 of their last 11 games. They'll get their fair share tonight but won't be able to stop the Islanders for the aforementioned reasons. The Isles will be ready to bounce back after a 3-1 home loss to Calgary. The Islanders entered that game having scored an average of 3.4 goals per game in their 5 prior games. The Isles have averaged 3.7 goals per game in their last 3 games versus the Maple Leafs. It was a shutout home loss for the Leafs versus the Islanders earlier this season but they previously averaged scoring 4.7 goals per game in their 3 prior meetings. The over is a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times these teams have met in New York. The over is 3-0 in Toronto's last 3 games overall. 10* OVER the total in NY Islanders |
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02-27-19 | Rockets v. Hornets OVER 226.5 | Top | 118-113 | Win | 100 | 10 h 1 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #507 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Houston Rockets @ 7:05 ET - The Rockets are healthy and in rhythm again. Even so, their last 3 games have remained under the total. That is helping to keep this total lower than it should be. This one opened up at a 228 yesterday and has dropped to as low as a 226.5 as of early this morning. Houston has scored an average of 118 points per game in its last 7 road games. Charlotte is off an under versus Golden State but the Hornets entered the Warriors game having gone 6-2 to the over in their 8 prior games. Charlotte has averaged 118 points per game in it last 5 home games. You can see why I am expecting this game to get into the mid-230s! The Hornets lost by double digits to the defending champs on Monday and they are 9-4 to the over this season when off a loss by a margin of 10 points or more. Each of the Hornets last 3 games have totaled at least 231 points. 3 of Houston's last 4 games have totaled at least 230 points. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-27-19 | Oilers v. Maple Leafs OVER 6.5 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #25 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Maple Leafs vs Edmonton Oilers @ 7:05 ET - The Oilers will get a big scoring boost tonight with Connor McDavid returning to the ice with fresh legs following his suspension. The Maple Leafs enter this game having scored 4 or more goals in 7 of their last 11 games. Toronto has scored 5 or more goals in each of their past two games. The Leafs have allowed 3 or more goals in 8 of their last 10 games. Edmonton has allowed 3 or more goals in 13 of their last 15 games. Can we get each team to 3 goals here? You bet and that guarantees us of the game finishing with at least 7 goals. Keep in mind, the Maple Leafs are off a high-scoring win over Buffalo and Toronto is 12-6 to the over this season when off a divisional game. For Edmonton, this will be the 20th road game with a posted total of 6 or more goals this season and only 6 thus far have resulted in an under. Also, the Oilers are 19-10-1 to the over in games against teams with a winning record this season. Look for all the above trends to continue with a high-scoring barn-burner at the Scotiabank Centre tonight. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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02-27-19 | Tennessee -4.5 v. Ole Miss | Top | 73-71 | Loss | -108 | 9 h 40 m | Show |
Early Annihilation - Rickenbach CBB Game #795 Wednesday 10* Top Play Tennessee Volunteers (-) @ Ole Miss Rebels @ 7 ET - This is a great value situation because everyone is a little down on the Vols right now while the Rebels have been getting a little extra attention thanks to some recent winning. Here is the key with those Ole Miss wins however. The Rebels have won 5 of their last 6 games but 2 of the wins came against Georgia. The Bulldogs are 1-13 in SEC action! The most impressive win would be over Auburn (7-7 in SEC) but the other two of the five wins came against A & M (5-10) and Missouri (3-12). In other words, Ole Miss has been helped by their schedule of late. As for the Volunteers, they have faced a tough schedule and the blowout loss at Kentucky recently is still fresh in the minds of the betting public. Also, Tennessee is off a very tight OT loss at LSU in their most recent games. So while it is true that the Vols have lost 2 of their last 3 games it is also true that those defeats came against a pair of teams that are EACH 13-2 in SEC action! Prior to the SU and ATS loss at LSU, Tennessee had been a perfect 4-0 ATS the last 4 times they enter a game on an ATS losing streak of 3 or more games. They get back on track in a big way here against an Ole Miss team that is over-valued right now. The Rebels have been a hot ATS team this season but they are on a long-term 8-14 ATS run in February games and the fade is on here! The Volunteers have won and covered 3 straight against Mississippi and get the job done again here in a road rout. 10* TENNESSEE |
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02-26-19 | Magic v. Knicks OVER 216 | Top | 103-108 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
Game of the Week Total - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Knicks vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - The Knicks are building confidence and that lends itself to a high-scoring game versus the Magic here. New York is off a big win over the Spurs Sunday. The Knicks have now won 2 of their last 3 games and also, New York has gone over the total in 2 of its last 3 home games. The Magic show strong defense to the marketplace as their field goal percentage allowed has been low in recent games. However, Orlando is off a huge upset win at Toronto on Sunday. In other words, this is a flat spot for the Magic as they go from facing the best team in the east to now facing the worst team in the east. Also, the pace for high-scoring games has certainly been there of late for Orlando. In the last 11 Magic games, the average field goal attempts for their opponents has been 92. Also, remember the upset win over the Raptors I just mentioned? The over is 13-3 this season when Orlando is off an outright upset as an underdog! Also, when the Magic are off a win by a double digit margin this season, the over has gone 10-4. As for the Knicks, the over is 2-0 the last two times they've been an underdog to Orlando. I look for another high scoring one here as the Knicks are installed as a sizable home dog here and bring another huge effort. 10* OVER the total in New York |
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02-26-19 | Sharks +107 v. Bruins | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 23 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #5 Tuesday 10* Top Play San Jose Sharks Money Line (+) @ Boston Bruins @ 7:05 ET - This is a contrarian play as many will be looking to the Bruins on home ice. However, the Sharks have been red hot just like Boston has. Additionally, San Jose just suffered a tough (and controversial) 6-5 home loss to the Bruins last week and now it is payback time. The Sharks have actually lost 6 straight to Boston but, keep in mind, San Jose has outshot the Bruins 75 to 40 in their last two meetings. Finally, on Tuesday night in Boston, the Sharks will get what they deserve in the form of a well-earned meeting. While it is true that the Bruins have a rest edge here, it is also true that Boston just returned from a trip out west and oftentimes that first game after returning back east can be the toughest. As for San Jose, they were off yesterday so that helps and also they've been in the eastern time zone for each of their past 3 games (at Pittsburgh, Columbus, and Detroit). The Sharks are 2-1 so far on this road trip and this is the finale. Extra motivation here for San Jose to finally knock off the Bruins and to also make it a winning road trip. Boston also has the #1 team in the league, and a division rival, on deck as they host the Lightning on Thursday. From a situational standpoint (as well as value standpoint), this is a superb spot for the Sharks! 10* SAN JOSE |
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02-26-19 | Toledo +1 v. Ball State | Top | 80-72 | Win | 100 | 11 h 60 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CBB Game #617 Tuesday 10* Top Play Toledo Rockets (+) @ Ball State Cardinals @ 7 ET - The Rockets have only lost 2 home games all season. Why am I mentioning home games when they are on the road here? I mention it because one of the two home losses Toledo had was to the best team in the MAC, Buffalo. However, the other home floor defeat was at the hands of these Cardinals. In other words, it is payback time. Actually that payback has been a long time coming too! Ball State has beaten the Rockets five straight times. Some will look at this line and say it is easy just to take the Cardinals on their home floor to get the win. As you know, nothing is ever that easy and I love the value here we're getting with revenge-minded Toledo. Keep in mind, Ball State has been struggling for an extended stretch. The Cardinals have lost 9 of their last 13 games SU and 10 of their last 13 ATS. Ball State has been held under 40% from the field in 3 straight games and has shot 19% from 3-point land in their last 3 games as well. In other words, the Cardinals are slumping badly. The Rockets are offering significant value here because they are on an 0-3 ATS run at the betting window and that has the betting markets holding a negative opinion of them at the moment. Keep in mind this is a Toledo team that has already surpassed the 20 win mark this season. Additionally, since early January back to back losses to Ball State and Buffalo, the Rockets have won 9 of their past 12 games! Toledo is 4-2 SU and ATS in their last 6 road games. When off a SU win versus a conference foe this season, the Rockets have gone 6-2 SU and ATS. The Cardinals are 2-8 ATS when off a game in which they scored 60 or less points. That includes Ball State going 0-3 ATS and SU this season in this situation. More of the same here. 10* TOLEDO |
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02-25-19 | Kings v. Lightning OVER 6 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 10 h 40 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #71 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Tampa Bay Lightning vs Los Angeles Kings @ 7:35 ET - This is a contrarian play as the Kings have struggled to score goals all season long. However, my take on this game is that with having the worst record in the NHL Western Conference, Los Angeles has little to play this season EXCEPT in a game like this. On Monday night on the NBCSN game (on TV) they take a shot at the #1 team in the league. This is the type of game where an underestimated opponent steps up their game to its highest level possible. Do I expect the Kings to win this game as a result? No. Also, I wouldn't be surprised if they lose the game by 2 or more goals. That's why I am not playing the money line or puck line in this game. Where I feel we have great value is with the over. That's because the Kings are going to surprise and score some goals here but, of course, I expect the Lightning to continue their tremendous onslaught in the offensive zone. The Bolts have won 8 straight games and have scored an average of 4.6 goals per game in those 8 games. The Kings have lost 7 straight games and have allowed 4.3 goals per game in those 7 games. The over is 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between these teams and those games have averaged 7.3 goals per game. Look for at least 7 here as well. Tampa is 16-10 to the over this season in games against teams with a losing record. The Kings are 18-9 to the over in non-conference games this season. Los Angeles is 10-3 to the over in their last 13 games. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Tampa Bay |
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02-25-19 | Warriors v. Hornets OVER 233.5 | Top | 121-110 | Loss | -102 | 12 h 33 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #565 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Golden State Warriors @ 7:05 ET - The Warriors are fired up off a loss in which they scored 112 points. That point total may not seem that bad but, keep in mind, Golden State entered that game having averaged 125 points per game their 4 prior home games. Now the Warriors are on the road and ready to run and gun their way to their typical success. I expect the result to be a solid over here at Charlotte. The Hornets have gone over the total in their last 3 games. Also, in home games, Charlotte is on a 4-0 run to the over and has averaged 119.5 points per game in those 4 contests as a host. The Hornets are 5-2 to the over this season against Pacific Division opponents and I look for Charlotte to improve to 8-4 to the over this season when off an upset loss as a favorite. Keep in mind, like the Warriors, the Hornets are off an outright loss as a favorite in their Saturday game. As for Golden State, the over is 13-5 when they are facing a team with a losing record this season. Also, the Warriors are 5-1 to the over this season against Southeast Division opponents and 15-8 to the over in road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-25-19 | Notre Dame v. Florida State -12.5 | Top | 61-68 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #862 Monday 10* Top Play Florida State Seminoles (-) vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ 7 ET - I successfully played against the Noles on Saturday with North Carolina and the Tar Heels delivered the beating I expected. Now it is the Seminoles turn, however, to be on the right side of a thrashing. To many bettors this line will look to big but Florida State should win this game by 20. Certainly FSU is fired up and they have but one loss on their home floor this season while Notre Dame has managed only 2 road wins this season. You can see who is very likely to win this game but, now, what about the all-important cover? As long-time followers know I rarely lay big points. When I do it has to be a situation where my team is not going to take their foot off the gas. That is the case here. Florida State didn't just lose on Saturday, they got embarrassed. Back home now with a quick turnaround chance to redeem themselves and with the eyes of the College Basketball World on them, the Seminoles are going to put on a show in this one! They are highly talented, so much moreso than the Irish, and had won 8 in a row SU (7-1 ATS) prior to the loss to UNC. As for Notre Dame, they are on a 3-11 SU run and 4-11 ATS run. 3 of their last 6 losses have come by 15 points or more. The Seminoles last 3 wins all came by 13 points or more. The average margin of those victories was 19 points. This line was as high as 13.5 and has dropped to a 12.5 in early market activity. I like the value here in a game I expect FSU to win by 20. The Fighting Irish are 3-9 ATS last 12 times they were off a game in which they were held to 60 points or less. The Seminoles are a long-term 9-4 ATS as a home favorite in a range of 12.5 to 15 points. 10* FLORIDA STATE |
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02-24-19 | Spurs -8.5 v. Knicks | Top | 118-130 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #559 Sunday 10* Top Play San Antonio Spurs (-) @ New York Knicks @ 7:35 ET - The Knicks are the worst team in the NBA. Yes, this is a significant number of points to lay on the road, especially with a team that has been struggling ATS. However, the Spurs did play quite well at Toronto Friday and that is why they got the cover and very nearly got the outright win. Keep in mind that was with LaMarcus Aldridge scoring only 6 points and certainly he was not himself in that game. Aldridge has been upgraded to probable for this game. Considering he is highly likely to play much better and considering the Spurs are hungry for a win and facing an awful Knicks team, you can see why I am expecting a road win by a double digit margin in this one. The Spurs are on an 18-9 ATS run in Sunday games including 4-2 ATS this season. San Antonio is on an 18-8 ATS run against Atlantic Division foes including 5-1 ATS this season. Even though the Knicks are off a double digit loss and would love to bounce back here, note that New York is 9-19 ATS this season when they are off a game which they lost by a margin of 10 points or more. Note also that this will be New York's 29th home game this season. So far the Knicks have only 9 ATS covers this season on their home floor! The Spurs are hungry and they know they need this game tonight as tomorrow's game at Brooklyn is a much tougher match-up than this one. Coach Gregg Popovich has the troops ready for this one. 10* SAN ANTONIO |
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02-24-19 | Blues v. Wild -113 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 9 h 33 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #64 Sunday 10* Top Play Minnesota Wild Money Line (-) vs St Louis Blues @ 7:05 ET - This is a situation that strongly favors the Wild. While the red hot Blues were at Boston yesterday Minnesota was at home resting. The Wild are back from a road trip that saw them get back on track and get their confidence going again with a pair of wins. Minnesota also has an edge here in that the Blues used their red hot goalie, Jordan Binnington, yesterday and it was a fierce battle for a 2-1 win in the shootout. St Louis is likely spent after the hard-fought win at Boston and now their choices are to start Binnington in the 2nd game of a back to back or go with Jake Allen whom hasn't started in over a week and has had some struggles this season. Minnesota will take advantage and get payback for a 4-0 home ice shutout to the Blues last Sunday! Keep in mind, prior to that loss, the Wild had won 5 straight games over St Louis by a combined score of 24 to 9. Minnesota had shown they had the Blues number in recent meetings and, after getting embarrassed on home ice last Sunday, it is payback time this Sunday. The Blues are in the midst of a brutal stretch that has seen them play 10 games in 16 days without playing consecutive home games a single time. The point is it has been road road road for St Louis or just one off home games here and there. Tough stretch catches up with them here. The Blues are 2-7 this season in the 2nd game of a back to back. 10* MINNESOTA |
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02-24-19 | Villanova v. Xavier OVER 136 | Top | 54-66 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 26 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #827 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Xavier Musketeers vs Villanova Wildcats @ 1:30 ET - Great value with this low total in my opinion. Each of the last 3 meetings between these teams have totaled at least 154 points and the posted total on this one has gone from a 137.5 to a 136 as of early game day morning. I like the fact that Villanova is off back to back losses (and has lost 3 of their last 4 games) and is very hungry for a strong performance. The Wildcats won't take their foot off the gas in this game even if they end up getting a double digit lead. Based on the current line (Nova -6), you can see that is a distinct possibility. As for Xavier, they aren't exactly known for their defense. The Musketeers are allowing 71.6 points per game this season. Also, Xavier has allowed an average of 90 points per game in their last 3 games against the Wildcats. That might have you wondering if one of those games went to OT. No, none of the 3 games were OT games. Musketeers simply won't be able to stop the fired up Wildcats here but I do look for Xavier to score very well. The Musketeers are averaging 75.5 points per game at home this season and the Wildcats defense has not been as strong this season. Villanova is allowing an average of 74 points per game in their last 6 road games! The over is 7-3 this season in Wildcats road games. Also, when off a loss in conference action, Villanova is 6-3 to the over their last 9 games. Xavier is 4-1 to the over this season when off a win in conference action and they come into this game with some added confidence thanks to a 3-game winning streak. Also, the Musketeers are 9-4 to the over their last 13 games with a posted total in the 130s. Look for another one here! 10* OVER the total in Xavier |
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02-23-19 | Rockets v. Warriors OVER 233 | Top | 118-112 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 17 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #549 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Golden State Warriors vs Houston Rockets @ 8:35 ET - We're getting line value here with the total dropping from 237.5 yesterday afternoon to 233 this morning. Part of the reason for the line move is the James Harden injury situation. Should he not play here I still am fully comfortable with this play. However, I really would be surprised if the does not go. Facing the Warriors in a huge game and coming off a loss Thursday - so a day of rest in between - look for Harden to go here. For the next two weeks after this game the Rockets will be facing Eastern Conference teams. Truly this is Houston's last big game for awhile. Not only are they facing the World Champs, it is the same team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season. This is a double revenge spot however for the Warriors as Houston has gotten the best of them in each of the first two meetings this season. The last meeting went over the total and, though it did go to overtime, keep in mind the teams did have 238 at the end of regulation. Look for another wild one Saturday night on ABC. Also, the over is 8-3 this season in Rockets games against Pacific Division opponents. I look for the Warriors over to improve to 11-6 this season when they are playing a game with revenge. After losing both regular season match-ups this season, the Warriors are NOT going to take their foot off the gas here no matter what the score is. So take advantage of the drop on this total and look for a high-scoring shootout! 10* OVER the total in Golden State |
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02-23-19 | Canadiens v. Maple Leafs OVER 6 | Top | 3-6 | Win | 100 | 8 h 57 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #47 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens @ 7:05 ET - Off 3 straight losses and having scored no more than 2 goals in each defeat, the Maple Leafs are in a foul mood (to say the least) here. That said, the Leafs have averaged scoring 4 goals per game in their last 6 games against Montreal and will take advantage of hosting the Canadiens on Saturday's Hockey Night in Canada. The reason I like the over here rather than Toronto is two-fold. For on thing the Maple Leafs money line is too pricey. I don't like laying big prices. However, for another thing, the Canadiens have scored 3 or more goals in 7 of their last 9 games. In fact, the Habs have averaged 4 goals a game in those 7 games and I look for a real barn-burner at Toronto Saturday. Only 33% (6 of 18) Maple Leafs divisional games this season have resulted in an under. Montreal is 6-3 to the over this season when they are on the road and coming off a game in which they scored 4 or more goals. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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02-23-19 | Delaware v. Drexel -3 | Top | 60-68 | Win | 100 | 8 h 41 m | Show |
PA Insider GOW - Rickenbach CBB Game #694 Saturday 10* Top Play Drexel Dragons (-) vs Delaware Blue Hens @ 5 ET - One of the Blue Hens best players is guard Kevin Anderson. Keep in mind he was a Rookie of the Year for the Colonial Athletic Association. Anderson, a sophomore, has missed the past two games with a knee injury. He is listed as questionable here but even if Anderson does play how effective would he be? Keep in mind he has a history of knee problems as he missed all but 11 games of his rookie season because of a knee injury. Delaware certainly wants to be careful with him and his absence or ineffectiveness really hurts the Blue Hens. They have been without him the past two games and they had to go to double OT to beat a bad Towson team and then they followed that up by losing to James Madison. The Blue Hens beat the Dragons earlier this season at Delaware but only by a single point and Anderson had 16 points in that one point win. Without Anderson, or with him limited, the Blue Hens certainly could be in trouble with the rematch being at Drexel. The home team is a perfect 7-0 SU in this series. Granted there have been some tight wins in that run but the Dragons are favored by just 3 points here. That certainly bears mentioning as 9 of Delaware's 12 losses this season have come by 6 or more points this season. As for Drexel wins, only 1 of the 12 has come by a margin of less than 4 points. Look for the Blue Hens to drop to 2-7 ATS this season in Saturday games. The Dragons are 8-1 SU and ATS as a favorite this season! 10* DREXEL |
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02-23-19 | Indiana State v. Missouri State OVER 130 | Top | 61-67 | Loss | -115 | 6 h 48 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach CBB Game #631 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Missouri State Bears vs Indiana State Sycamores @ 2 ET - This total opened up in the 135 range and has dropped to the 130 range. When these teams met last month the posted total was 148. This is the type of major adjustment I look for. Of course the Bears have been trending under all season long but the odds makers factored that into their opening number (135) already. Now the betting markets have forced the total to adjust another 5 points. This is how you get extra value in a situation like this because the numbers don't bear out that this game will finish below 130. The Sycamores are off a RARE gem on defense where they allowed just 50 points but that game was at home. In their last 4 road games, Indiana State has allowed an average of 80.5 points per game! Missouri State is off an embarrassing 63-43 home loss. That's right, the Bears scored just 43 points in their most recent game and it was at home. Prior to that Missouri State had scored at least 65 points in each of their 4 prior games. So here you have a situation where the road team is off one of their best defensive performances (rare) of the season and the home team is off one of their worst offensive performances (rare) of the season. The result here is tremendous line value. The first meeting this season stayed under the total but prior to that these teams had gone over in 5 straight meetings. Also, the over is 5-1 the last 6 times the Bears were the host in this series. 10* OVER the total in Missouri State |
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02-22-19 | Nuggets v. Mavs OVER 218.5 | Top | 114-104 | Loss | -109 | 13 h 43 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #527 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Dallas Mavericks vs Denver Nuggets @ 8:35 ET - The Nuggets are a solid 16-8 to the over in their last 24 games. This total opened up at a 220 and has dropped to a 218.5 as of early this morning. We're getting good value here considering that the last two meetings between these teams in Dallas went over the total. Also, in their only meeting so far this season (at Denver) the teams combined for 244 points (and had 143 at the half). Don't be surprised if another shootout erupts tonight as I also like overs when it is the weaker team that is at home. In this case that is the Mavericks of course and, as you would expect, they shoot better when at home. As for Denver, they are one of the top teams in the league and score quite well most nights on anybody anywhere! The over is 10-4 in the Nuggets last 14 games against teams that are allowing an average of 106 or more on the season. The over is 20-10 in Denver's last 30 February games. All signs point to the over improving to 3-0 in the Mavs last 3 games. 10* OVER the total in Dallas |
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02-22-19 | Columbia v. Pennsylvania -7.5 | Top | 79-77 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 39 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #860 Friday 10* Top Play Penn Quakers (-) vs Columbia Lions @ 8 ET - The Quakers are still in the hunt for finishing in the top 4 of the Ivy League and qualifying for their post-season tourney. The Lions are the worst team in the conference by far. With Penn also entering this game off a tough OT loss to Harvard last week, the set up is perfect here for a home blowout win. Admittedly the Quakers have underachieved in Ivy League action thus far but they entered last weekend having had just one home game in league action thus far. Penn's schedule has been tough to say the least. They nearly pulled off the much-needed 2-0 sweep last weekend but back to back OT games (they beat Dartmouth in OT Friday) proved to be too much as you would expect. The Crimson are a tough team to face in a spot like that. Penn was 6-2 at home prior to losing to Harvard and now will take advantage of a facing a Columbia team that is just 1-8 in road games this season. I am well aware of the fact that the points seem high here but we've now seen this line drop from a 9 to a 7.5 and we're being offered great value here as the Quakers are ready for the much needed big blowout win that can keep their season alive. Keep in mind, Penn gets Cornell (5-3 in league action) tomorrow! I am well aware of the fact that both these teams are known for playing in tight games but I am calling for a win by double digits here as the Lions have shot poorly in back to back games and those were both at home! As for the Quakers, they had shot very well in 3 of their 4 games prior to the tough back to back OT situation. The hot shooting resumes tonight for the home team. 10* PENN |
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02-22-19 | Wild v. Red Wings OVER 5.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -115 | 10 h 31 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NHL Game #27 Friday 10* OVER the total in Detroit Red Wings vs Minnesota Wild @ 7:35 ET - The Wild are off a big 4-1 win at New York over the Rangers last night. That got Minnesota back on track after rare back to back shutouts on home ice. Now the Wild will look to take advantage of a Red Wings team that has lost 6 of its past 8 games and allowed an average of 4.33 goals per game in those 6 defeats. While I do fully expect Minnesota to score well here, it should be noted that they have a big home game on deck with a red hot St Louis team. Not only could they be looking ahead to the Blues, the fact this is a back to back also means their intensity on defense may not be at its best. This is especially true considering they are coming off a much needed satisfying win last night. With this total at just 5.5 goals, I love the value we're getting here with the over. Long-term the over is 17-8 when the Red Wings host the Wild. Also, Detroit has scored at least 3 goals in 4 of their last 5 games. Minnesota has scored 4 goals in 3 of their last 4 road games. I foresee this one playing out as a 4-3 type game. Only a third (8 of 24) Wild non-conference games this season have resulted in an under. Also, the Red Wings are 10-4 to the over this season when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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02-21-19 | Heat v. 76ers -6.5 | Top | 102-106 | Loss | -102 | 11 h 13 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach NBA Game #502 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Miami Heat @ 7:05 ET - The fact that the Sixers are without Joel Embiid for this one is keeping this line to a very manageable number considering Philly is on their home floor and the Heat have been struggling. The 76ers, even without Embiid, are still the much more talented team here. Philadelphia has Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris, Jimmy Butler, and JJ Redick. Additionally, the Sixers new reserve big man Boban Marjanovic will step up with Embiid being out. Philly is 6-1 SU and 5-2 ATS the last 7 times they've hosted Miami. Of course the Heat have revenge here as they were ousted from the playoffs by the Sixers last spring but, keep in mind, they had that revenge on their mind earlier this season too when they hosted the 76ers and yet they still lost by double digits at Miami! The Heat enter this game having lost 6 of their past 8 games. The Sixers are off a win and have won 14 of 21 in the New Year. Philly did lose their most recent home game but had won 9 of 12 prior on their home floor. 8 of the 76ers last 9 wins have come by 7 or more points and I see every reason to expect another win by at least that margin tonight! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-21-19 | Senators v. Devils OVER 6.5 | Top | 0-4 | Loss | -124 | 9 h 16 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #5 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New Jersey Devils vs Ottawa Senators @ 7:05 ET - The Devils have scored an average of 4 goals per game in their last 3 games. However, New Jersey is allowing goals like crazy too. The Devils have given up an average of 4.4 goals per game their last 5 games. The over is also a perfect 5-0 in the last 5 meetings between these teams. Incredibly, those games have averaged 8.6 goals per game. The Senators are unlikely to change the pattern here either. Ottawa has allowed an average of 4.8 goals per game their last 5 games. To their credit, the Senators have averaged scoring 4 goals per game their last 7 games but, again, if you can't keep the puck out of your own net it is tough to win. The Senators and Devils are each last place in their respective divisions. I love looking for games like this late in the season where you have two teams that have faded from the post-season race. These tend to be very high-scoring games as defensive intensity is not at its best as a general rule. That said, this particular match-up fits the bill very well and the recent trending between these teams make this a top situation. Look for both hockey clubs to continue to see their goalies struggle here. 10* OVER the total in New Jersey |
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02-21-19 | Michigan v. Minnesota OVER 131.5 | Top | 69-60 | Loss | -115 | 10 h 7 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach CBB Game #607 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Minnesota Golden Gophers vs Michigan Wolverines @ 7 ET - The Wolverines are known for defense. However, Michigan also has been known for having some sub-par performances on the road. That said, the Golden Gophers offensive production also has been much better when at home. Combining those factors we've got great value here with a low total posted on this game. The first meeting between these teams this season stayed well under the total but both teams had horrible shooting nights. Prior to that game however, the over was 3-0 in the 3 prior meetings and those games averaged 157 points. Now, consider this as well. The total in the first game between these teams was posted at 137. Now, because of the low-scoring result in that match-up, we're seeing totals as low as 131.5 for this game as of early this morning. This is more than 5 points less than the first match-up even though the fact that this game is at Minnesota means it should be higher scoring. Keep in mind, the over is 8-4 the last 12 times the Golden Gophers have hosted the Wolverines. Also, Michigan has allowed 71.3 points per game in their last 3 road games. As for Minnesota, they've had one ugly recent performance at home versus Wisconsin. However, other than that, the Golden Gophers have averaged 80.3 points per game in their last 6 home games! Minnesota is a much more confident team when at home and their shooting stats show that. Also, the over is 10-5 in Golden Gophers home games this season. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Minnesota |
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02-20-19 | Bruins +116 v. Golden Knights | Top | 3-2 | Win | 116 | 13 h 39 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NHL Game #73 Wednesday 10* Top Play Boston Bruins Money Line (+) @ Vegas Golden Knights @ 10:05 ET - The magic of the Golden Knights first season is long gone. Vegas is basically a lock to make the playoffs but also has nearly no chance of winning the division. Their playoff positioning is almost locked up and that means it is even more difficult for Vegas to stay motivated. They've also seen Marc Andre-Fleury struggle between the pipes for an extended stretch and that is why Malcolm Subban is off back to back starts. The fact is that this is simply not the same Knights team it was last season and they enter this game having lost 9 of their last 13 games. Though Vegas won their most recent game on home ice, that was preceded by 5 straight HOME losses! Now the Golden Knights have to host one of the best teams in the league. The Bruins already beat the Knights in Boston earlier this season and they come into this game red hot. Boston has won 6 straight games and 8 of their last 9. Also, the Bruins are 7 for 25 on the power play their last 7 games. Boston has killed off 15 of 17 power play opportunities for their opponents in their last 5 games. The Bruins will take advantage of a struggling Golden Knights special teams. Vegas is just 2 for 18 on the power play in their last 8 games. Also, the Golden Knights penalty kill has surrendered 4 power play goals in 14 chances for their opponents in their last 4 home games. Tons of value here with the road dog and the Bruins are highly motivated as the Maple Leafs are right behind them for the #2 spot in the Atlantic Division. 10* BOSTON |
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02-20-19 | Massachusetts v. George Washington OVER 136 | Top | 67-79 | Win | 100 | 11 h 40 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach CBB Game #801 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Massachusetts Minutemen vs George Washington Colonials @ 7 ET - This is a type of late-season match-up that I look for when looking for games that should turn into a shootout. Here you have two teams both have disappointing seasons, with a history of high-scoring games when they meet, both shooting the ball well of late, and both struggling on the defensive end of late. Seriously, who is really to going to play intense defense here? There is just no high motivation for defense in this match-up and the 'kicker' for me was confirming that UMass guard Luwane Pipkins (hamstring) did upgraded from questionable to probable. I do expect him to be good to go here. The over is a perfect 5-0 in the last 5 meetings between these teams and all 5 games totaled at least 150 points. The Minutemen have shot over 40% from three point land in their last 3 games combined. However, Massachusetts has allowed 80 points or more in 2 of their last 3 games and they have allowed red hot hot shooting for their opponents in each of their last 3 games (despite the Davidson game being an ugly score, the shooting was there). As for George Washington, they've shot 40% or better from three point land in 3 straight games and all 3 went over the total. The Colonials, however, have allowed 82.3 points per game in their last 3 games as they surrendered hot shooting over this 3-game stretch. The over is 15-8 when UMass is off a game in which they allowed 80 or more points. Also, February games for the Minutemen are on a 15-3 run to the over. The over is 9-3 this season in George Washington games with a posted total in the 130s. Also, the Colonials are 10-2 to the over when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. Ideal set-up here for a shootout. 10* OVER the total in George Washington |
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02-19-19 | Maryland v. Iowa OVER 147 | Top | 66-65 | Loss | -112 | 11 h 11 m | Show |
Big Ten Annihilation - Rickenbach CBB Game #625 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Iowa Hawkeyes vs Maryland Terrapins @ 8 ET - The earliest total that first popped up on this game was a 151.5 and now, as of early game day morning, the total has dropped to as low as a 147 in some books. I am happy to grab the extra value here. The over is 2-1 in the last 3 meetings between these teams and the lone under did total 150 points. In other words, at the current number posted on this game, the over would be a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings. Look for the over to improve to 7-4 the last 11 times that Maryland has been on the road with a line ranging from a pick'em to a +3. The Terrapins have not had an over since mid-January - a stretch of NINE straight games. Their highest posted O/U in their last 5 games has been a 138. So the odds makers were fools to set this total at 151.5 as an opener, right? You guys know how I feel about this. When something looks "off" to the betting public it is usually for good reason! Keep in mind, Iowa is at home here and loaded with confidence as they continue to find ways to win games even when it takes late game "magic". That said, the Hawkeyes will continue to play at a fast pace here and will dictate the pace of this game with the Terps. Iowa's most recent game, at Rutgers, resulted in an under, but the over was 5-2 in the Hawkeyes 7 prior games. That's because Iowa averaged 81 points per game during that stretch and that is perfectly in line with their season average for points per game! The Hawkeyes are one of the highest-scoring teams in the Big Ten and are averaging 83.3 points per game at home this season. The over is 7-1 the last 8 times the Hawkeyes have been at home with their line ranging from a pick'em to a -3. Look for a shootout here. 10* OVER the total in Iowa |
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02-19-19 | Lightning v. Flyers +136 | Top | 5-2 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 8 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #50 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (+) vs Tampa Bay Lightning @ 7:05 ET - Of course it may seem "tough" to go against the best team in the NHL but, keep in mind, one of the few teams the Bolts have proven to be mere "mortals" in recent seasons is when they are playing the 2nd game of a back to back. The Lightning have won just 19 of 36 when playing the 2nd night of B2B games. A key to the value here is the Flyers are rested and on a home ice and have a big edge in goal. Not only is Philadelphia 12-1-1 their last 14 games, Carter Hart has won 10 of his last 11 starts and continues to play like one of the top goalies in the NHL despite his youth. As for Tampa Bay, they are expected to go with Louis Dominque here since this is a back to back spot. Keep in mind, the Lightning netminder has an unimpressive .896 save percentage on the road this season. The Flyers have allowed 2 or less goals in 6 of Hart's last 9 starts. While this game doesn't mean a whole lot to Tampa, it means everything to Philly. This is a chance for the Flyers, on home ice, to prove they can play with the league's best team. Philadelphia is only 6 points out of a wild card spot and continues to play their best hockey of the season. The Flyers, when they enter a game on a winning streak of 3 or more games, have won 22 of 33 including 5 of 7 this season. They are catching the Lightning at the right time and get the upset win tonight. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-18-19 | Senators +137 v. Blackhawks | Top | 7-8 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 13 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #41 Monday 10* Top Play Ottawa Senators Money Line (+) @ Chicago Blackhawks @ 8:35 ET - Though both teams have had disappointing seasons each hockey club also has shown some glimmers of hope recently. That said, there is no way that it can be justified that the Blackhawks deserve to be this big of a favorite against anyone in the league. This is especially true when they're facing a Senators team that has been playing quite well for weeks now and is finally starting to see their improved play get rewarded as they've picked up some wins recently too! Ottawa has won 3 of its last 5 games and their goalie Anders Nilsson is 7-4 with a 2.27 GAA and a .935 save % his last 11 games. The Blackhawks had been winning too but they appear to be heading for another downturn now and goaltending continues to be shaky for them. Chicago has lost 2 of its last 3 games and the Hawks were outscored 11-5 in the two defeats. The road team has won 4 of the last 5 meetings between these teams and the Senators are seeking revenge for a 1-goal loss to Chicago in their season opener. Keep in mind that two of Ottawa's 3 recent wins came against Winnipeg. The Jets are a legitimate Stanley Cup contender and I have been impressed with the Senators level of play recently to say the least. Also, the Blackhawks have lost 21 of 31 this season when off a game in which they allowed 4 or more goals. Tremendous line value here with the sizable road dog. 10* OTTAWA |
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02-18-19 | Illinois v. Wisconsin OVER 135 | Top | 58-64 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #853 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Wisconsin Badgers vs Illinois Illini @ 8 ET - The Illini are off a low-scoring upset win at Ohio State. Illinois is now 6-3 SU in their last 9 games. Also, prior to that rare low-scoring result with the Buckeyes, the Illini were on a 7-2 run to the over in their 9 previous games. One of the few ugly games during that stretch was when they lost at home to Wisconsin. In fact, other than the low-scoring win over the Buckeyes and the low-scoring loss to the Buckeyes, the Illini have scored 71 points or more in all their games since mid-January. In fact, in those 7 games Ilinois has averaged 81 points per game. Keep in mind, versus Wisconsin, the Illini should have scored just fine but they were completely off in that one. Illinois shot just 35.5% from the field, 54.5% from the free throw line, and 19% from three point land! Not only that but the Badgers Ethan Happ was limited by foul trouble and had one of his worst games of the season. Note that, even with all that, the game still totaled 132 points! That is why I feel we're getting great line value here with the low total posted on this one. Illinois is playing with a lot more confidence now than they were a month ago when these teams met in Champaign. I expect the Illini to get their fair share of points as a result but, keep in mind, this is still a team that is allowing 77 points per game on the road this season. The strength of Illinois certainly is not defense. Also, the Badgers have long been known for dominating the Illini and have scored an average of 75 points in the last 3 meetings. Wisconsin is 4-1 to the over when playing with 5 or 6 days of rest between games. The Badgers are 4-1 to the over as a home favorite in a range of 9.5 to 12 points. Illinois is 4-1 to the over as a road dog in a range of 9.5 to 12 points. 10* OVER the total in Wisconsin |
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02-17-19 | Canadiens +119 v. Panthers | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 47 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #33 Sunday 10* Top Play Montreal Canadiens Money Line (+) @ Florida Panthers @ 7:05 ET - With the Canadiens in a back to back and the Panthers playing this game with double revenge from this season's action, many will back Florida at a small money line price on their home ice. Of course that is what has happened and the line is being driven upward. In typical contrarian fashion I am on the other side of this game and grabbing the extra value but it is certainly not without reason. The Panthers have been alternating their goalies of late and that means Roberto Luongo is likely to get the start here. Florida has been outscored 13 to 9 in his last 4 starts. The Panthers were outshot 43-32 by Calgary Thursday but were able to steal the game from the Flames. They won't be so lucky here. The Canadiens were likely to start Antti Niemi here since Carey Price was between the pipes yesterday at Tampa Bay. By the way, Price and the Habs played great in that game (particularly in the first two periods - both scoreless). Had the Canadiens not had a mid-first period goal taken off the board (overturned by questionable offsides call after upstairs review), Montreal appeared poised for a big upset yesterday. They carry some extra hunger into this game now after a tough loss Saturday led to their 3rd straight defeat. Montreal's Niemi has saved 113 of 119 shots in his last 3 starts against the Panthers and has already beaten Florida twice this season. This is a key game for the Habs in the playoff race and they are 9-3 this season when off a game in which they were held to 1 goal or less. Florida has lost 29 of 47 (including 7 of 11 this season) when playing with 2 days of rest between games. The Canadiens have won 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a losing record. 10* MONTREAL |
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02-17-19 | Villanova v. St. John's +4 | Top | 65-71 | Win | 100 | 9 h 4 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #828 Sunday 10* Top Play St John's Red Storm (+) vs Villanova Wildcats @ 5 ET - Great line value here as a line that opened up as low as a -1.5 on Villanova is all the way up to as a high as a -4 on the Wildcats as of early Sunday morning. This is great home dog line value being offered to the Red Storm. While it is true that St John's lost the first meeting this season (at Villanova), the Red Storm actually had a double digit lead in the 2nd half of that game! Also, though the Wildcats are off an 18-point win versus Providence that game was much closer than that for much of the contest. In their prior game, Nova had to rally to still lose by a point at Marquette. The point is that the Cats continue to be a covering machine but they've truly been quite fortunate in recent contests and here is where that luck runs out. I actually expect an outright upset here for the Red Storm but, of course, am grabbing the generous points being offered as added insurance. Note that St John's Shamorie Ponds has had great success against the Wildcats in his career and also is known for huge performances in big games. Additionally, he is coming off a rare poor game and the fact that the Red Storm still won that game (versus Butler) says a lot. The fact is that St John's is very talented (much more than just Ponds) and they also play physical basketball and the Wildcats have been having trouble on the boards for long stretches in recent games. This one will be a fierce battle and I see the Red Storm taking advantage of this marquee opportunity on their home floor against a ranked rival. 10* ST JOHN'S |
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02-16-19 | Stars +125 v. Hurricanes | Top | 0-3 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 54 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #15 Saturday 10* Top Play Dallas Stars Money Line (+) @ Carolina Hurricanes @ 8:05 ET - The Stars are off an embarrassing 6-0 shellacking at Tampa Bay on Thursday. While Dallas was off yesterday, the Hurricanes were battling it out with Edmonton last night. Not only is this a quick turnaround for Carolina, they have lost 7 of their 8 Saturday games this season! Dallas also has revenge here as they suffered a 5-1 loss in their most recent game against the Hurricanes and that was also here in Carolina. It is payback time for the Stars. The Canes have lost 14 of 21 this season when off a non-conference game. Also, in games against teams with a winning record, the Hurricanes have lost 63 of their last 106 as they have generally struggled in recent seasons when facing quality competition. Dallas could have Ben Bishop back between the pipes for this one. Also, the Stars are 4-1 the last 5 times they were off a loss by a margin of 3 or more goals. Keep in mind they lost by SIX goals to the powerful Bolts on Thursday night. Dallas entered that game having won 6 of their 8 prior games. Also, the Stars had allowed just 1.8 goals per game in their last 13 games before giving up SIX against the Lightning. This is a powerful spot for a bounce back from the road team and I'll gladly grab the underdog value being offered here. 10* DALLAS |
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02-16-19 | Fresno State v. New Mexico OVER 147.5 | Top | 81-73 | Win | 100 | 11 h 32 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #719 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New Mexico Lobos vs Fresno State Bulldogs @ 7 ET - The over is a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between these teams. The first meeting this season at Fresno State saw the Lobos score 70 points despite shooting only 31.9% from the field. Both teams were horrible from beyond the arc in that game too as they combined for a ridiculously bad 12 of 57 performance from three point land. The point is that, even with all that poor shooting, the game totaled 152 points. Why? Because these teams are known for playing at a great pace in their meetings and, keep in mind, the two prior meetings saw those games average 175 points! This is also the type of situation I love to look for with overs. You have the lesser team, New Mexico, at home and seeking revenge. The Lobos are averaging 80 points per game at home this season. They'll look to win this game with a red hot shooting night and they are known to "run and gun" at home. Of course Fresno State is happy to play the same pace here as they are off a low-scoring win versus Boise State but the Bulldogs previously scored an average of 80 points per game in their 4 prior games. The Lobos confidence at home is very high right now as they have scored 83 points or more in 4 of their 6 home games since the 1st of the year. Look for the over to improve to 4-1 this season in Lobos games with a posted total in the 140s this season. The over is a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times Fresno State has played at New Mexico. The Lobos give the Bulldogs all they can handle here and the result is a shootout. 10* OVER the total in New Mexico |
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02-15-19 | Oilers v. Hurricanes OVER 6 | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 31 m | Show |
Total Dominator - Rickenbach NHL Game #75 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Carolina Hurricanes vs Edmonton Oilers @ 7:35 ET - The Oilers are off a low-scoring 3-1 loss at Pittsburgh Tuesday but they certainly didn't lose that game due to lack of effort. Edmonton had 39 shots on goal and head coach Ken Hitchcock has lit a fire under this team and I expect them to continue to be aggressive in the offensive zone tonight. As for the Hurricanes, head coach Rod Brind'Amour certainly has his team playing extremely well. Carolina has won 7 of its last 10 games and the Canes have averaged scoring 4.1 goals per game during this 10 game stretch. In the Hurricanes last 8 home games, 6 of them have totaled at least 6 goals. The Canes have scored an average of 3.9 goals per game in those 8 home games. Carolina will be ready to go again here on home ice but the Oilers are going to present a challenge and I expect the result to be a very high-scoring non-conference match-up here. Keep in mind, prior to the game against the Penguins staying under the total, the over was 9-4 in Edmonton's 13 prior games. The Oilers are 17-8 to the over this season in games against teams with a winning record and also 10-5 to the over this season in road games with a posted total of 6 or more goals. The Hurricanes are 3 for 9 on the power play in their last two games. The Canes have allowed opponents to go 2 for 7 on the power play in their last two home games. More of the same expect here with special teams play helping to push this one over the total. 10* OVER the total in Carolina |
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02-15-19 | Buffalo -2.5 v. Toledo | Top | 88-82 | Win | 100 | 10 h 18 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach CBB Game #877 Friday 10* Top Play Buffalo Bulls (-) @ Toledo Rockets @ 7 ET - This is a revenge game for the Rockets and, of course, they are happy to have the rematch at home. However, coming into this season Toledo was projected by most to be only about the 3rd best team in the MAC West. As for the MAC East, Buffalo was expected to be the top team there and they have met those expectations. The point is that the Bulls are doing what was expected of them while the Rockets have overachieved a bit. Overall on the season Buffalo has played a slightly tougher schedule too. These key factors, in my opinion, are combining to give us some solid line value here with the Bulls as a very short road favorite in this one. Sure the Rockets want revenge badly here but, keep in mind, this game is ultra-important to Buffalo too! It is not just about the Bulls being a Top 25 team and wanting to remain in the rankings, it is also the fact that Buffalo is currently battling with Bowling Green for the top spot in the East Division of the MAC. The Rockets have been helped by the fact that they play in the West which is the weaker division of the MAC this season. Also, note that the Bulls are a long-term 23-8 ATS in road games in which their line ranges from pick'em to a -3. As for Toledo, they could be a little rusty here with some extra time off leading into this game and the Rockets have covered just 3 of their last 9 games when they enter a match-up with 5 or 6 days of rest between games. The Bulls are 3-0 SU and ATS in the last 3 meetings between these teams and they make it 4 in a row here. 10* BUFFALO |
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02-14-19 | Avalanche v. Jets OVER 6.5 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -127 | 10 h 59 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NHL Game #61 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Winnipeg Jets vs Colorado Avalanche @ 8:05 ET - The Jets have scored an average of 6 goals per game in their last 3 games against the Avalanche. As you would expect with stats like that, the over is 3-0 in those 3 meetings. Winnipeg also enters this game having scored an average of 3.8 goals per game in its last 8 games. The Jets are 6-2 to the over in those 8 games and Winnipeg is known for being particularly dangerous on home ice as they are averaging 3.9 goals per game there. The Avalanche are struggling badly and have allowed 4 or more goals in 7 of their last 8 games. Not surprisingly given those numbers, the over is on a 5-2 run in Colorado's last 7 games. In road games with a posted total of 6 or more goals, the Avs are 16-8-1 to the over this season. Winnipeg is 20-9-2 to the over in games against teams with a losing record this season. Also, the Jets are a long-term 20-9 to the over in February games. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Winnipeg |
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02-14-19 | Hornets v. Magic OVER 214.5 | Top | 89-127 | Win | 100 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #523 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Orlando Magic vs Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - The Hornets are off a loss at Indiana Monday but held the Pacers to just 99 points. The over is a perfect 4-0 the last 4 times Charlotte is off a game in which they held their opponent under 100 points. The Magic are off a big road win at New Orleans where they held the Pelicans to 88 points. The over is a perfect 7-0 the last 7 times Orlando is off a game in which they held their opponents to 90 points or less. The pacing for an over has certainly been there in recent Magic games as they've allowed their opponents more than 90 field goal attempts in 7 of their last 8 games. Also, Orlando has had at least 90 field goal attempts in 7 of its last 9 games. The Hornets have fared extremely well against the Magic in recent seasons and, before being held to just 32.2% from the field by the Pacers Monday, Charlotte had scored 115 points or more in 3 of their last 4 games. Orlando's win at New Orleans was an upset win as they were a dog to the Pelicans. That certainly holds significance here as the Magic are a perfect 11-0 to the over when off an outright win as an underdog. That means we have over trending of a combined 22-0 here supporting this play. 10* OVER the total in Orlando |
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02-14-19 | Drexel v. James Madison OVER 147 | Top | 69-71 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 3 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #611 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in James Madison Dukes vs Drexel Dragons @ 7 ET - When Drexel travels away from Philly they have shown a strong tendency for leaving their defense at home! The Dragons have allowed insane numbers on the road: 82.8 ppg, 51.6% from the field, and 42.9% from 3-point land! Another weakness of Drexel is they have a weak bench so their starters tend to get over-used. However, they are all very capable scorers (all 5 averaging in double digits on the season) and the Dragons starting five is well-rested here. Drexel hasn't played since Saturday and they shot 53.7% from the field against the College of Charleston but the Dragons also allowed 52.5% from the field in a 2-point loss that totaled 170 points. We have great value with the rather low total posted on this one as Drexel has shown a tendency all season long to get involved in very high-scoring games away from home. James Madison is likely to oblige the "run and gun" style in this one as the Dukes, even though they allowed only 66 points at Towson, allowed 51.1% shooting! James Madison has allowed 49% or better from the field in 5 of their last 7 games. The Dukes, prior to holding Towson to 66, allowed an average of 79.5 in their 6 prior games. The over was 5-2 in James Madison's 7 games prior to the Towson game staying under the total. The Dukes are averaging 76.6 ppg at home this season and have revenge from losing at Drexel this season and from getting knocked out of the conference tourney by the Dragons a year ago. That means they won't take their foot off the gas here but Drexel can match them bucket for bucket. In other words, plenty of points in this one! 10* OVER the total in James Madison |
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02-13-19 | Pistons +5.5 v. Celtics | Top | 110-118 | Loss | -115 | 9 h 28 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #505 Wednesday 10* Top Play Detroit Pistons (+) @ Boston Celtics @ 7:35 ET - The Celtics Gordon Hayward whom has averaged ONE made three-pointer per game in his CAREER went 6 for 7 from beyond the arc last night which was undoubtedly the difference in Boston's upset win over the 76ers. The Celtics won at Philly by 3 points yesterday and Hayward had 15 more points than usual from beyond the arc. Flip that around to normal and Boston loses the game by a DOZEN points. In any event, sometimes crazy stuff does happen in these games and, as a result of highly unlikely shooting result leading to an emotional upset win for the Celtics, this is pure and simple a flat spot for Boston. Of course that is why odds maker opened this line up with the Celtics favored by less than a half dozen points even though they are on their home floor. Keep in mind Kyrie Irving has been out for Boston and I would be very surprised to see him return tonight considering this is the Celtics final game before the All Star break. The smart thing to do is to let him continue to rest his knee and have continued rest then through the break. Boston had failed to cover 3 straight games before the unlikely upset win last night. Conversely, the Pistons enter this game having won (and covered) 4 straight games. Detroit also has covered its last two games against the Celtics and has the size in the paint to give Boston some trouble. This is especially true when the Pistons have a significant rest edge like they do here. The Celtics are 3-5 SU (and 2-6 ATS!) this season in the 2nd game of a back to back. Detroit is playing with a lot of confidence right now and has done well all season when in a situation like this. That is, the Pistons are 8-5 ATS (and 10-3 SU!) when off a game in which they scored 115 points or more! This one has upset written all over it and I am happy to grab the generous points being offered. 10* DETROIT |
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02-13-19 | Providence v. Villanova -11 | Top | 67-85 | Win | 100 | 9 h 20 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #782 Wednesday 10* Top Play Villanova Wildcats (-) vs Providence Friars @ 6:30 ET - I got burned going against the Friars on Saturday with the Red Storm. No one expected that St John's would be without Mustapha Heron in that game but it made me feel like a fool when he was listed as the key player in my write-up and then 30 minutes before the game it was announced he wouldn't play. How important was he? Heron came back last night and scored 28 points in the OT win for the Red Storm over Butler. The point is that Providence, though they still deserve credit of course for the Saturday win, were very fortunate that Heron didn't play as it resulted in St John's being completely out of rhythm in that game. Now the Friars, after being in the right place at the right time, are in a complete 180 situation and are in the wrong place at the wrong time! Villanova is at home and coming off a one point loss at Marquette on Saturday. SU losses have been rare for the Wildcats this season and they are known for responding after a defeat. Nova is 3-0 ATS the last 3 times they were off a SU loss. This spread is double digits but it is justified. The Cats led the Friars by 18 points at halftime at Providence early last month. The Friars, at home, were able to claw back into the game in the 2nd half. However, on the road, that will not happen and this is particularly true when you consider the angry mindset of the Wildcats team they are facing here. Providence is 8-10 ATS this season against teams with a winning record. Villanova is 14-6 ATS this season against teams with a winning record. The Wildcats turn this into a home blowout. 10* VILLANOVA |
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02-12-19 | Celtics v. 76ers -6 | Top | 112-109 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 37 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #574 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Boston Celtics @ 8:05 ET - The 76ers are a much different team than the ones that the Celtics have dominated in recent meetings. Not only did Boston knock Philly out of the playoffs in 5 games in May, the Celtics also have won each of the first two meetings this season. However, not only were those games at Boston and this one is in Philadelphia, the Sixers also are now stacked. Not only do they now have a "Big Four" with Embiid, Simmons, Butler and Harris, the 76ers also still have JJ Redick and the sharp-shooter is currently red hot from beyond the arc. They are loaded with weapons while the Celtics are actually down a key one today as Kyrie Irving (knee) has been downgraded to out for this game! Boston is 9-17 ATS this season in road games and also just 3-6 ATS as an underdog this season. All 3 of those wins were outright upset wins. In other words, the Celtics have not covered a single game this season that they've lost SU as an underdog. That said, note that Philly is quite likely to get the SU win here. The 76ers are 23-6 SU at home this season. In other words, the odds are heavily stacked in our favor here for a Sixers win and cover. In terms of technical support for the 76ers, Philly is 35-13 ATS versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - when the Sixers are facing them in the 2nd half of the season. Overall the 76ers are a fantastic 72-43 ATS long-term in home games. The Celtics have been slumping and are on a 5-11 ATS run and Boston is in the wrong place at the wrong time. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-12-19 | Red Wings v. Predators OVER 5.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -120 | 10 h 4 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NHL Game #41 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Nashville Predators vs Detroit Red Wings @ 8:05 ET - Overall, Nashville is known for playing lower-scoring games and that is helping to keep this total (5.5) shaded a little low which is giving us great value considering the situation. The Predators are hungry off back to back losses and also have revenge from a 4-3 loss at Detroit earlier this season. As a result of those two key variables, the Preds won't take their foot off the gas here and I expect plenty of scoring to take place as a result. Also, being a non-conference game is a difference maker and only 6 of Nashville's 16 non-conference games this season have resulted in an under. The Predators are on a 21-12 run to the over in February games. The Red Wings also enter this game off consecutive losses. That is certainly noteworthy here as Detroit is 10-3 to the over this season when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. Also, the Red Wings are 11-5-1 to the over when off a loss by a margin of 2 or more goals. I look for Detroit to improve to 5-2 to the over this season in road games with a posted total of 5.5 goals. The Red Wings have allowed an average of 4 goals per game in their last 3 games. The Predators have scored 4 or more goals in 4 of their last 8 games and are primed for a huge, relentless game in the offensive zone as they look to bounce back off B2B losses. The Preds have scored an average of 5 goals per game the last 4 times they have entered a game on a losing streak of 2 or more games. Expect more of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Nashville |
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02-12-19 | St Bonaventure v. St. Joe's -1 | Top | 76-51 | Loss | -109 | 10 h 26 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #602 Tuesday 10* Top Play St Joseph's Hawks (-) vs St Bonaventure Bonnies @ 6:30 ET - This line was as high as a -3 on St Joseph's early on when lines first came out yesterday afternoon. It has since dropped to very nearly a pick'em and this is offering superb line value on the home team. This is a big-time revenge game and I look for the Hawks to get home revenge in this one just like they did when they blasted the Billikens on Friday. Earlier this season St Joseph's had lost at St Louis and shot just 29.5% from the field in the embarrassing loss. The Hawks got payback in Philly Friday. Similar situation here. St Joseph's lost badly at St Bonaventure and shot 29.1% in the defeat and now it is payback time in Philly as they host the Bonnies. Though the Hawks are short-handed, including being without Lamarr Kimble, that problem is mitigated by the fact that St Joseph's enters this game with 3 days off and they have 2 days off after this. In other words, it is no problem to fully utilize all hands on deck fully in this one and that worked just fine when they blasted St Louis by 30 on Friday. The Hawks are catching the Bonnies at the right time as St Bonaventure has been held to below 30% from the field (including horrific 3-point shooting performances) in each of their last two games. Off back to back losses, St Bonaventure has scored an average of just 53 points per game in their last two games. The Bonnies are just 4-9 SU on the road this season while the Hawks are a solid 9-3 SU at home this season. St Bonaventure is just 2-4 SU and ATS this season when off a game in which they were held to just 60 points or less. The Hawks are a perfect 3-0 SU this season in a home game where the total is 135 to 139.5 points. 10* ST JOSEPH'S |
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02-11-19 | Knicks v. Cavs OVER 210.5 | Top | 104-107 | Win | 100 | 11 h 14 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #553 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks @ 7:05 ET - The very first numbers that popped up on this total offshore were as high as a 212.5 in some books. It has since moved down about a bucket from the opener and I like the value here that we're getting in a game where neither team is highly motivated to play much defense. That's because the Cavaliers and Knicks are both in the running for the #1 spot in the NBA draft and are simply playing out the string on very disappointing seasons. I am well aware of the fact that New York has been on a long-term trend of unders and that the Cavs have also been trending under. However, there is plenty of reason to believe that this one plays out quite loose and high-scoring. Cleveland has allowed 114.6 points per game in their last 11 home games. The over is 11-5 in the Cavaliers last 16 home games. The Knicks are allowing 115.7 points per game in their road games on the season! Both teams have unimpressive offensive production but when defenses are this bad there is going to be plenty of quality looks at the basket. This is especially true in a game that is likely to be played a little "loosey goosey" with very little attention to detail on defense. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 this season in Cavaliers games against Atlantic Division opponents and also the over improves to 4-1 in the rare situation of the Cavs being a favorite in a game. Two bad teams, not a lot of defense, and a shootout breaks out in this one! 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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02-11-19 | Kings v. Capitals OVER 5.5 | Top | 4-6 | Win | 100 | 10 h 39 m | Show |
Game of the Week total - Rickenbach NHL Game #17 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Washington Capitals vs Los Angeles Kings @ 7:05 ET - We are getting great line value with this total posted at a 5.5 in this non-conference match-up. Certainly I fully understand the low total as it is based on the fact that the Kings have been one of the lowest scoring teams in the NHL this season. However, this low number is not giving any credit to the fact that Los Angeles has been trending toward much higher scoring games of late. The over is 6-1 in the Kings last 7 games. LA has allowed an average of 3.6 goals per game in their last 7 games. Los Angeles has scored an average of 4 goals per game in their last 4 games. The Kings are facing a Capitals team that also has been trending over of late. The over is 6-2 in Washington's last 8 games. The Caps have allowed an average of 4.4 goals per game in their last 11 games. In the Capitals last 8 games they were shutout once (by the Bruins in DC) but they scored an average of 4.1 goals per game in the other 7 games! The over is 15-7 this season in Washington's non-conference games. Also, the over is 14-3 this season when the Capitals are off a game in which they allowed 4 or more goals. Los Angeles is 15-8 to the over in non-conference games this season. 10* OVER the total in Washington |
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02-11-19 | Virginia v. North Carolina OVER 142 | Top | 69-61 | Loss | -115 | 10 h 15 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach CBB Game #855 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in North Carolina Tar Heels @ 7 ET - There are 3 teams that are clearly the top teams in the ACC. That group includes these two matched up here as well as Duke. There is no doubt that the Tar Heels are very similar in style to the Blue Devils. This is the only regular season meeting between North Carolina and Virginia. That said, lets look at how the Cavaliers fared against Duke this season. They just had their 2nd match-up of the season on Saturday. The Blue Devils scorched the Cavs from three point land. In the prior meeting this season, at Duke, the Cavaliers held Duke in check but gave up too much inside. That is why the Blue Devils averaged 76.5 points per game this season in their two games against the vaunted defense of Virginia. Note that UNC is averaging 88.3 points per game on the season. You can see where I am going with this. The fact is the Tar Heels are going to "get theirs" in this game in terms of scoring plenty of points. They do not want to let UVA control the tempo here and, since this game is at North Carolina, I do expect the Tar Heels to have quite a say so in the tempo of this game. The Heels will look to run and gun and create quick transition scoring opportunities. The Cavaliers defensive mindset is still shaken from getting blitzed by Duke and now they have to face a team that is averaging even more points per game than Duke this season. This is a tough match-up for the Cavs but I do expect them to score plenty. Virginia has shot 47% from the field on the road and averaged 70 points per game away from home this season. The over is 4-1 in the Cavaliers last 5 games against teams with a winning record. The over is 3-1 in Tar Heels home games with a posted total between 140 and 144.5 points. North Carolina wants revenge for last season's ACC Tourney loss to the Cavaliers and the Tar Heels know they will NOT get revenge by playing a plodding slow style here. In other words, this game has "up tempo" written all over it! 10* OVER the total in North Carolina |
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02-10-19 | Magic v. Hawks OVER 223 | Top | 124-108 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #547 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Hawks vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - The Magic are off a huge upset win at Milwaukee last night as they held the Bucks to just 83 points. You know it will be easy for them to now fall flat on the defensive end of the courts as they go from facing one of the best teams in the East to facing a team that is nearly 20 games under .500 on the season. Yes the Hawks are a division rival but it is not much of a rivalry when a team is having an awful season. Atlanta did put up 120 points yesterday against Charlotte but the Hawks, even though they were at home, allowed 129 points. As bad as that sounds it is truly not that unusual. The over is 10-4 in Atlanta's last 14 games and a lot of it has to do with porous defense as well as playing at a fast pace. The Hawks have now allowed an average of 122 points per game their last 14 games. The Magic are favored by a bucket here. So if the Hawks continue to play as they have been for the past month now and allow 122 here and the odds maker is right about the spread (as they so often are) this could be a 122-120 game. That puts us nearly 20 points over the posted number on this game. The total was as high as a 226 with early numbers but has been pushed down to a 223. In typical contrarian fashion, I am on the other side of the move in this one! Prior to yesterday's dominating road win at Milwaukee, the over was actually on a 4-1 run in Orlando's last 5 games away from home. How likely is another "grinder" for the Magic after yesterday's low-scoring win? VERY unlikely! The over is 8-1 this season in Orlando games when the Magic are off a game in which they allowed 90 points or less. Look for a shootout here! 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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02-10-19 | Maple Leafs v. Rangers OVER 6.5 | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 26 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #15 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Rangers vs Toronto Maple Leafs @ 7:05 ET - The Rangers are off an embarrassing ugly home loss to the Hurricanes on Friday. Prior to that game the over was 6-3 in New York's prior 9 games. During that stretch the Rangers had one other home shutout (1-0 versus the Flyers). However, in the other 8 games the Rangers scored an average of 4 goals per game. That lends itself to the expectation of a high-scoring game here as the Maple Leafs are in a back to back spot and continue to get involved in barn-burners. Toronto won 4-3 at Montreal yesterday and the Leafs have scored an average of 4.3 goals in their last 6 games. The over is a perfect 3-0 in the Maple Leafs last 3 games. The over is a long-term 22-13 when Toronto is on a winning streak of 3 or more games. Also, the Maple Leafs are 11-5 to the over this season when off a divisional game. The over is 6-2 this season when New York is off a game in which they were held to 1 goal or less. Also, the Rangers are 11-4 to the over this season when off a loss by a margin of defeat of 2 or more goals. 10* OVER the total in the New York Rangers game |
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02-10-19 | Georgia Tech v. Notre Dame OVER 128 | Top | 59-69 | Push | 0 | 9 h 39 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach CBB Game #837 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ 6 ET - There is a long history of match-ups between Notre Dame and Georgia Tech staying under the total. That continued in this season's earlier match-up at Georgia Tech 3 weeks ago. The Yellow Jackets are known for getting involved in low-scoring grinder type games. Looking at the final score of 63-61 in the Jackets win over the Fighting Irish 3 weeks ago it looks like Georgia Tech was very successful in slowing down Notre Dame. However, when one digs a little deeper one finds that the Irish actually attempted 65 shots in the game including 30 three pointers! So it wasn't really the tempo of the game that kept it under the total, it was the fact that the Irish shot very poorly in that game. I don't expect a repeat of that here. The Fighting Irish are not offensive juggernauts but they do average a solid 73 points per game when at home this season. They also are allowing 68 points per game at home. It will be Notre Dame, on their home floor, dictating the pace in this game and I expect us to get well above the 128 that is currently posted on this one. You can see that Fighting Irish games tend to total around 140 points and they're very likely to shoot much better in this rematch. Also, the over is a long-term 29-16 (including 6-2 in recent seasons) when the Irish are a home favorite in a range of 3.5 to 6 points. The over is 6-3 when Georgia Tech enters a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. 10* OVER the total in Notre Dame |
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02-09-19 | Duke v. Virginia -114 | Top | 81-71 | Loss | -114 | 8 h 3 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter GOW - Rickenbach CBB Game #714 Saturday 10* Top Play Virginia Cavaliers (-) vs Duke Blue Devils @ 6 ET - The Cavaliers have just one loss this season and it came at Duke. In that game the Cavs made just 3 of 17 three pointers which certainly was a key factor. Now, of course, one could argue that the Blue Devils only made 2 of 14 three pointers and that make it a mute point. However, the reason I would dispute that is that Duke was t home for that game! They couldn't make threes against the nation's #1 ranked defense and it is unlikely that will improve on the road for sure! As for the Cavaliers though the story is certainly different as they now get their shot at the Blue Devils in Virginia. The Cavs are averaging 9 three pointers per game and hitting 42.1% from beyond the arc when on their home floor this season. Overall on the season the Cavs are hitting 39.4% from three point land while the Blue Devils have struggled to a 30.8% this season from downtown. Now I know that Duke has, surprisingly, shot better from outside on the road compared to at home this season but they're now going to a raucous arena in Virginia and facing the nation's #1 defense. The Cavaliers want this game badly and, in my opinion, they are not going to be denied. They came into this season projected by many to finish above Duke in the ACC and they can earn that billing by knocking off the Blue Devils in this huge rematch. Duke is 1-4 ATS in games with a posted total in the 130s. The Blue Devils are 0-3 ATS in their last 3 games against teams that are allowing an average of 64 points or less on the season. The Cavaliers are 22-4 SU (and 20-6 ATS) in games with a posted total in the 130s. Look for a defensive battle which will suit the Cavs very well and they get payback. The line on this game has dropped to as low as a -1 which has opened up good value on the money line for those of you that have access to it - as low as the -115 range. 10* VIRGINIA |
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02-09-19 | Spurs v. Jazz OVER 221 | Top | 105-125 | Win | 100 | 9 h 25 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #517 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Utah Jazz vs San Antonio Spurs @ 5:05 ET - The over is 8-1 in the Spurs last 9 games. The over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between these teams and that includes 4-1 the last 5 times they've met in Utah. The Jazz are a long-term 10-3 to the over in home games with a posted total of 220 or more. In other words, though a big total like this on a game in Utah is quite rare, don't let the big total scare you away from the over. The Spurs have been putting up huge points but can't stop anybody. Also, the Jazz are seeking revenge for a loss at San Antonio in the most recent meeting between these teams. Keep in mind, Utah has been known for some huge shooting performances at home this season and that includes putting up 139 the last time they hosted the Spurs. Also, the over is 12-1 this season in San Antonio's road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. As you can see with both of these teams, when big totals are posted on their games, it has proven to be justified nearly every time and I feel strongly that will be the case again here. The desperate Spurs have lost 3 straight games so they're not going to back down here but they'll have to do it with offense because their defense has had plenty of issues of late and that means this one turns into a shootout. 10* OVER the total in Utah |
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02-09-19 | Stars -116 v. Coyotes | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -116 | 5 h 7 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach NHL Game #73 Saturday 10* Top Play Dallas Stars Money Line (-) @ Arizona Coyotes @ 4:05 ET - The Stars have beaten the Coyotes 9 straight times! Dallas is expected to have Anton Khudobin between the pipes while Arizona will likely start Darcy Kuemper. Note that Khudobin has a stellar .924 save percentage on the season and has been very strong of late as he is at .925 his last four games. Kuemper, on the other hand, has an .887 save percentage in his last four starts. Also, the Coyotes enter this game on a 5-game losing streak. Conversely, the Stars are off a loss but that ended a 5-game winning streak. In other words, Dallas has been hot and Arizona has been struggling and I see no reason that won't continue here. The Stars have won 8 of 12 Saturday games this season. The Coyotes have lost 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. Arizona also has lost 35 of 53 when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. In other words, the Coyotes are known for seeing their slumps turn into lengthy losing stretches. More of the same today as the Stars are 5 for 14 on the power in their last 4 games against the Coyotes while Arizona is 0 for 17 in those 4 match-ups. Special teams, goaltending, situational value, etc. all add up to a road rout here. 10* DALLAS |
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02-08-19 | Hurricanes v. Rangers +109 | Top | 3-0 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 25 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #58 Friday 10* Top Play New York Rangers Money Line (+) vs Carolina Hurricanes @ 8:05 ET - Three significant edges for the Rangers in this one. Obviously one is home ice. Another is that Carolina is in a back to back spot while this host here was off last night. Thirdly, and perhaps most important, Henrik Lundqvist over Petr Mrazek is a key edge between the pipes in my opinion. Lundqvist has a solid .910 save percentage on home ice this season. Mrazek enters this start having a poor .874 save percentage in his last 4 starts. Mrazek has allowed 6 goals in his two February starts and he had a poor 3.30 GAA in his January starts. He is 3-6 with a 3.28 GAA in his 9 starts against Atlantic Division teams this season. The Rangers Lundqvist is an incredible 19-3 in his last 22 starts versus the Hurricanes with a very high save percentage and very low goals against average. Suffice to say he is very confident when facing Carolina. I know the Canes have fared okay this season in back to back spots but, particularly off a dramatic 6-5 win last night at Buffalo that required extra time, I look for the Hurricanes to run out of gas tonight at Madison Square Garden. The rested Rangers take this game as they are still fighting to stay alive in the playoff race and they know this game is a critical one. 10* NEW YORK RANGERS |
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02-08-19 | Nuggets v. 76ers -4.5 | Top | 110-117 | Win | 100 | 9 h 20 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #502 Friday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Denver Nuggets @ 7:05 ET - Both these teams are looking to respond off back to back losses. Also, both the Nuggets and 76ers have fared well against the opposing conference this season. However, there are two key factors that strongly favor the Sixers here. First off, the huge trade with the Clippers that included Tobias Harris is going to lead to a ton of positive energy for Philly in this one. Secondly, that energy level is going to be boosted even higher here because this game is at Philadelphia with the home court edge being a huge factor in this one. The Nuggets are on an ugly 3-12 ATS run in home games! Conversely, the 76ers are a long-term 70-43 ATS in home games. Also, Philly has not lost 3 straight games this season. In other words, you can fully expect the bounce back here with a home victory. However, what about the all important cover? Philadelphia is 9-2 ATS this season when off a divisional game and they are fired up after the ugly loss to the Raptors. Also, the Sixers are 9-1 SU (and 8-2 ATS!) this season when off a loss by a double digit margin! Long-term the 76ers are 35-17 ATS when off a loss by a margin of 10 or more points! The Nuggets, of course, are also looking to bounce back here but they are an ugly 2-6 ATS this season when off an upset loss as a favorite. Also, Denver is an ugly 3-8 ATS in road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. While all 3 Sixers acquisitions from the Clippers are listed as probable for tonight, the Nuggets Gary Harris has been ruled out for this game and Paul Millsap is questionable with his ankle injury still a factor. The Sixers have held 9 of their last 11 opponents to 47% or less from the field. Denver has allowed their last 4 opponents to average 51.4% from the field! Look for the Nuggets to drop to 3-9 ATS this season when off a game in which they allowed 115 points or more. Home blowout here for Sixers rejuvenated with the Harris acquisition. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-08-19 | St. Louis v. St. Joe's OVER 131.5 | Top | 61-91 | Win | 100 | 10 h 21 m | Show |
PA Insider - Rickenbach CBB Game #851 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in St Joseph's Hawks vs St Louis Billikens @ 7 ET - These teams have a history of playing to the under in recent meetings. However, there is plenty of reason to believe that this one snaps that trend. When these teams met three weeks ago at St Louis, the Hawks shot only 29.5% from the field and allowed the Billikens to shoot only 38.6% from the field. Even with those very ugly numbers the game totaled 125 points. This total, as of early game day morning, is currently as low as 131.5 points and I feel we're getting great value here when you consider the first result between these teams. The reason is because St Joseph's will look to increase the pace on their home floor and also it is highly unlikely that we'll see such poor shooting in the rematch. How unlikely? The Hawks have allowed at least 43% from the field in each of their five games since the loss at St Louis and 4 of the 5 games saw St Joseph's opponents shoot 46% or better from the field. The Hawks allowed 73.6 points per game in those 5 games. Also, St Joseph's other 7 games since mid-January (other than the ugly performance against the Billikens) have seen them held under 40% from the field just 1 other time. In the other 6 games the Hawks averaged 70.3 points per game. You can see why I am expecting this game to get to the 140 to 145 range tonight. The Billikens have allowed their last 3 opponents to average 48% from the field and St Louis has shot 42% or better in 3 straight games. The Hawks are hungry for revenge here and they know they can't afford to let the Billikens turn this game into a "grinder" so I expect a lot of pressure and that can turn into turnovers and quick transition points as well as breakdowns in defense when St Louis beats the pressure. In other words, there is going to be some quick scoring runs throughout this game in my opinion. The over is a perfect 3-0 when St Louis is a road favorite of 3 points or less. The over is 12-5 in St Joseph's February games. Also, the Hawks are 3-0 to the over as a home dog of 3 points or less. 10* OVER the total in St Joseph's |
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02-07-19 | Kings v. Flyers OVER 5.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 20 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NHL Game #35 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia Flyers vs Los Angeles Kings @ 7:05 ET - The Kings have a penchant for being involved in lower scoring games and the Flyers 8-game win streak has made Carter Hart's fine play between the pipes a focal point. That is why the total on this game is only at 5.5 goals and there are key reasons as to why I am expecting at least 6 goals to be scored in this one and I am happy to take advantage of the lower total posted here. First off, rookie phenom goalie Hart is expected to get the night off as Anthony Stolarz is slated to get this start. Stolarz played great in his most recent start but his long-term numbers tell the full story and certainly he is not Carter Hart! He'll be facing a scrappy Kings team that is hell-bent on ending the Flyers winning streak. Los Angeles has had a rough season but is playing much better of late. The over is actually a perfect 5-0 in the Kings last 5 games and LA has scored 4 or more goals in 3 of their last 4 games. The Flyers, though goaltending has been making the headlines, have actually been getting the job done more often than not in the offensive zone as well. In fact, Philadelphia has scored an average of 4.2 goals per game in their 5 home wins during this current 8-game winning streak. Also, the Flyers potted 5 goals at Los Angeles in the first match-up this season. The Kings found the back of the net 4 times in their last visit to Philly. You can see why I expecting at least 6 goals to be scored in this one! These two hockey clubs are playing with a lot of confidence right now and that means no matter which team gets the lead the other one is quite likely to battle right back and tie it. The over is 14-7 this season in non-conference games for Los Angeles and I look for another one here! 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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02-07-19 | Clippers +6 v. Pacers | Top | 92-116 | Loss | -103 | 9 h 23 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach NBA Game #575 Thursday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Clippers (+) @ Indiana Pacers @ 7:05 ET - This is one of my typical contrarian plays. The first line that popped up on this game was a -4 early this morning. Keep in mind this is after the public just watched the Pacers destroy the Lakers at home on Tuesday and hand LeBron James the worst loss of his career. Now Indiana is at home again and they're facing the "other" LA team that just traded away Tobias Harris (plus two other role players) to the 76'ers. So, of course, the betting masses are jumping all over the Pacers here and the line got driven up to a -6. I have said this many times before and will say it again here...actually, I will say two things. First off, anything can happen in any game but the key in this business is to always try and have the odds in your favor. That said, my second comment/question as I have stated before is - do you really think the odds makers are stupid? The point being that they are well aware of the impact of the trade. They certainly know Indiana is the home team in this game. Yet they set the line at a 4 with good reason. The betting markets jump all over it and now I am happy to fade the masses and grab the Clippers here. Watch LA "rally the troops" tonight while the Pacers get caught still feeling a little too good about themselves after the blowout of LeBron and Company on Tuesday. Keep in mind, Indiana is playing for the 3rd time in 4 nights. Also, prior to the win over the Lakers, the Pacers were on a 1-5 ATS run. Indiana is also 4-9 ATS this season after scoring 115 points or more. Long-term, the Pacers are an ugly 1-5 ATS (and SU!) when off a game in which they scored 130 points or more. In other words, don't be surprised if the Clips pull off the upset tonight. I am grabbing the "insurance" with having the points however and am happy to have a half dozen points on my side. The Clippers are 4-1 ATS their last 5 road games, on a 16-8 ATS run in February games, and are 20-11 ATS when they enter a game having played each of their 3 prior games on the road. 10* LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS |
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02-07-19 | Penn State v. Ohio State OVER 131 | Top | 70-74 | Win | 100 | 11 h 7 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #607 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Ohio State Buckeyes vs Penn State Nittany Lions @ 7 ET - This is a revenge game for the Buckeyes as they lost to the Nittany Lions in the Big Ten Conference Tournament in March. That said, Ohio State is not going to take their foot off the gas in this one and they are known for scoring very well on their home floor. The Buckeyes have averaged 77.3 points per game in their home games this season. However, something about Ohio State always seems to bring out the best in Penn State and the Nittany Lions have averaged 75 points per game in their last 4 games against the Buckeyes. I would not be surprised to see PSU trading buckets with OSU for much of this game and we should see some great scoring runs throughout this contest. The first total that popped up on this game offshore was 132.5 and it dropped to a 131 as of early this morning and I feel we have great value here with the over. Each of the last 5 meetings between these teams have totaled at least 135 points. The over is 8-3 in Penn State's last 11 visits to Ohio State. The over is also 5-1 in the Buckeyes last 6 home games entering this contest. Though the Nittany Lions have mostly trended under this season, the over is 3-1 the last 4 times Penn State has been a road underdog in a range of 6.5 to 9 points. The over is also 3-1 this season in Buckeyes home games versus teams with a losing record. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Ohio State |
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02-06-19 | Wizards v. Bucks OVER 230 | Top | 129-148 | Win | 100 | 13 h 3 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #563 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Washington Wizards @ 8:05 ET - Huge total posted on this game but absolutely justified. The Wizards recently had one strong defensive game at home against Indiana. In their other 4 games since January 27th, Washington has allowed their opponent to shoot 50% or better from the field in all 4 games. The Wizards have allowed an average of 129 points per game in those 4 games. One of those games was at home against the Bucks and the game totaled 246 points. I would not be surprised to see a similar result tonight. Milwaukee did allow only 94 points in their next game but it certainly wasn't due to a lack of pace! The Bucks hosted the Nets and Brooklyn actually attempted 102 shots from the field but it was simply 'one of those nights' and the Nets made just 32.4% of their shots. While fast pace is expected again here, you can expect the Wizards will shoot very well. Washington has shot 49% from the field their last 4 games and averaged 116.6 points per game their last 5 games. The over is 17-7 this season in Wizards games against teams with a winning record. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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02-06-19 | Bruins v. Rangers OVER 6 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 110 | 11 h 48 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #27 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Rangers vs Boston Bruins @ 8:05 ET - Both teams are expected to use back-up goalies here and I look for plenty of goals in this one. The Bruins are in the second night of a back to back so Jaroslav Halak is expected to get the start. He has lost each of his last 4 decisions and, overall, has not been as impressive in recent starts as he was earlier this season. The Rangers are expected to start Alexandar Georgiev in this one. This is likely for the simple fact of giving him some work and also because Henrik Lundqvist had a sub-par effort in the loss to the Kings Monday. The fact is that Georgiev is no Lundqvist. Yes, I know Georgiev allowed just 1 goal in his most recent start but he only faced 19 shots as he faced a Flyers team that has been red hot and has been very content to play defensive-minded hockey throughout much of their 8-game winning streak. In other words, the Flyers focus has not been on putting pucks on net. They are playing a more conservative style of late. Today Georgiev will face anything but that in this match-up! The Rangers netminder is facing a Bruins team seeking revenge for a 3-2 home loss about two weeks ago in Boston. When the Bruins are facing a team with a losing record on the season in a game that is past the midway point of the season only 15 of their last 39 have resulted in an under. The Rangers Georgiev is 6-9 this season and has compiled a 3.28 goals-against average and a save percentage that is under the .900 mark. That is even after the strong start versus Philly. The over is 14-8-1 this season when the Rangers are off a game in which they allowed 4 or more goals. 10* OVER the total in New York Rangers |
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02-06-19 | VCU -6.5 v. George Washington | Top | 60-50 | Win | 100 | 10 h 23 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach CBB Game #795 Wednesday 10* Top Play Virginia Commonwealth Rams @ George Washington Colonials @ 7 ET - This line opened up at nearly double digits but, as of early game day morning, it has dropped to as low as a 6.5 in some big books. This is a great value add for us as we can get a Rams team that I do expect to win by double digits and yet we're laying only about a half-dozen points. Yes, Virginia Commonwealth is on the road here but that is actually part of the key to this play. What that does is keep the line manageable. Had the Rams been at home they would have opened up at around 15 points for sure. The other key about being on the road is that is often how revenge can best be served! VCU is absolutely out for revenge on this very court where they got thoroughly embarrassed last season by a final score of 80 to 56. For this season's rematch, Virginia Commonwealth enters with a solid 15-6 season while George Washington in currently struggling through an ugly 7-14 campaign. The Colonials are off a home win but that came against a bad Fordham team that is just 1-6 on the road this season. Prior to that win, George Washington had lost 5 of their 6 prior games and the average margin of defeat was 9.6 points in those 5 losses. The Rams are surging on an 8-2 SU run and the only two losses were at Rhode Island and Davidson. Those teams are a combined 17-2 SU at home this season! By comparison, the Colonials are 5-7 SU at home this season. By the way, the VCU wins in their 8-2 stretch their last 10 games have come by an average margin of 13 points per victory! The Rams are 20-9 ATS in a road game where the total is 130 to 134.5 points. George Washington is 7-14 ATS when off a win in conference action! 10* VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH |
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02-05-19 | Raptors v. 76ers -4.5 | Top | 119-107 | Loss | -107 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #554 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - This is a great spot for the Sixers from a situational standpoint. Philly is off a loss and they have had two days off since that defeat and they have two days off after this game hosting the Raptors. In other words the 76ers are all in on this game and they're hosting a Toronto team that is expected to be short-handed with Kyle Lowry listed as doubtful (back). The home team is a perfect 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings between these teams. 4 of those 5 wins have come by a double digit margin and, in fact, the average margin of victory has been 15 points in those 5 wins. Philadelphia got upset as a favorite at Sacramento Saturday but they are 6-2 ATS the last 8 times they've been off a SU loss. The Raptors are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 road games with a posted total of 220 points or more. The Sixers are 27-16 ATS when playing with 2 days of rest between games. The 76ers are also 33-12 ATS when, in the 2nd half of a season, they are a facing a team that averages 106 points or more per game. Philly is looking to close the gap with Toronto in the Atlantic Division standings and I expect them to get the job done in a big way with strong situational edges here. Of course Lowry being likely to miss this game makes the spot an even stronger one as you know the former Villanova star would love to be playing in Philly tonight but is unlikely the Raptors are going to risk a lot with Lowry so close to the All Star break. Play PHILADELPHIA |