Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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12-31-18 | Missouri v. Oklahoma State +9 | Top | 33-38 | Win | 100 | 9 h 1 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #264 Monday 10* Top Play Oklahoma State Cowboys (+) vs Missouri Tigers @ 3:45 ET in Liberty Bowl @ Liberty Bowl Stadium in Memphis, TN - I love taking the undervalued 6-6 team in a spot like this. Of course the Tigers are a big favorite as they are 8-4 and play in the SEC. However, not enough respect is being given to a Cowboys team that has a very dangerous offense. In fact, the Oklahoma State offense is the exact type of offense that makes a team a threat for a backdoor cover should one be needed here. That's because the Cowboys can score in a hurry. I also like the fact that OSU has gone 10-1 SU (9-2 ATS) in non-conference games. Additionally, the Cowboys are on a 8-2 ATS run (including 7 outright upsets!) as an underdog! Keep in mind, the underdog is on a PERFECT 7-0 ATS run in Oklahoma State's last 7 games. The Cowboys beat West Virginia and Texas during that stretch plus lost by just a single point as a 3 TD underdog against Oklahoma! As for Missouri, the Tigers lost to Kentucky and South Carolina plus lost by 2 TDs to Georgia and 4 TDs to Alabama. The point is that, even though Missouri is 8-4 this season, they did struggle against quality opposition. That said, I am comfortable challenging them to win this game by double digits. Missouri is 0-4 SU (1-3 ATS) when playing with 2 or more weeks between games. Also, the Tigers long-term run in December games is an ugly 4-11 SU (3-12 ATS). Look for those trends to continue here. 10* OKLAHOMA STATE |
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12-30-18 | Eagles -6.5 v. Redskins | Top | 24-0 | Win | 100 | 10 h 56 m | Show |
Game of the Year - Rickenbach NFL Game #309 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Eagles (-) @ Washington Redskins @ 4:25 ET - The Eagles post-season hopes are still alive. With a win here at Washington and a Vikings loss Philadelphia makes the playoffs. Certainly teams never try to worry about what the other teams are doing but, in the back of their minds, Eagles players know that a Minnesota loss is at least "possible" as the Vikes are playing an 11-4 Bears team that also still has motivation for playoff seeding purposes. Even without that, Philly would be going "all out" here as QB Nick Foles has stepped right in for the injured Carson Wentz and resumed his late season "magic" once again just like he did in last season's run that led to being Super Bowl Champions. The Eagles have won 4 of their last 5 games. The injury-depleted Redskins, once atop the NFC East not so long ago, have certainly gone the other direction. Washington has lost 5 of its last 6 games and this one has the makings of a road rout with Philadelphia fully capable of dominating the trenches on both sides of the ball. In terms of technical support here, the Eagles are 10-4 SU (and 9-5 ATS) when they enter a game on a SU winning streak of 2 or more games. Also, the Redskins are 0-3 SU (and ATS!) in their last 3 meetings with the Eagles and all 3 games were decided by a double digit margin. Look for that to be the case again in this one as well! Also, an interesting note here about Washington is they are 0-7 SU (and ATS!) in their final game of the season the last 7 years! 5 times it was a regular season game and 2 times it was a playoff game. All 7 seasons ended with a SU (and ATS!) loss and all 7 defeats came by 8 or more points. Considering that fact as well as the extremely injury-ravaged condition of the Redskins current roster, this one looks to take that "season-ending" ATS losing streak to 8 in a row! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-29-18 | Notre Dame v. Clemson -12 | Top | 3-30 | Win | 100 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
Bowl Game of the Year - Rickenbach CFB Game #256 Saturday 10* Top Play Clemson Tigers (-) vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish in Cotton Bowl @ AT & T Stadium in Arlington, TX @ 4 ET - Doesn't it seem surprising to see an undefeated team that statistically has played the tougher schedule installed as a double digit dog? As expected, the public sure thinks so! The Fighting Irish have received plenty of attention in terms of number of tickets written but the sharp money (including mine!) is on Clemson here. The Tigers have the playoff experience and are so strong in the trenches! I look for the Clemson defensive line to be particularly dominant in this game and that will be a key. The Tigers last 8 games featured one rare poor game defensively against South Carolina (but Clemson still won by a 21 point margin) but the other 7 games saw them allow just 9.9 points per game! The Fighting Irish have covered only twice in their last six games. Notre Dame was somewhat fortunate in their win at USC to close out the regular season and that was the 5th time this year that the Irish have been held to 24 points or less. The Tigers have NEVER been held below 27 points this season and they've played 13 games. In fact, in 10 of those games they scored 35 points or more. Knowing how dominant the Tigers defense is and how dynamic their offense is, this one is going to turn into a rout. It may stay close early but look for Clemson, as per usual, to exert their dominance as they wear down Notre Dame as the game goes on. The Fighting Irish are on a 6-13 ATS run in bowl games. The Tigers are 11-4 ATS (including 5-1 this season) when they are a favorite in a range of 10.5 to 21 points. Tigers head coach Swinney is 8-3 ATS in bowls and they're looking to make up for last year's loss in the CFB finals. Fighting Irish coach Kelly is just 3-4 SU and ATS in bowls. Advantage to the big favorite here all the way around and I expect a blowout rout. 10* CLEMSON |
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12-28-18 | Nets +4.5 v. Hornets | Top | 87-100 | Loss | -101 | 10 h 35 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #511 Friday 10* Top Play Brooklyn Nets (+) @ Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - Common thinking will be to back Charlotte in this chance at revenge for the loss at Brooklyn on Wednesday. As long-time followers know, my way of thinking is anything but common. Known for being contrarian, I am again going to contrary to the masses here and backing the Nets but is certainly not without reason. The Hornets are on a 3-9 ATS run their last dozen games. Brooklyn is on a 9-1 SU run their last 10 games. Charlotte actually has a losing SU record this season when playing with revenge and the past two seasons went a combined 34-56 SU when playing with revenge. The fact is that revenge is one of the most over-played angles in sports betting and, in this case, I am going against the grain and backing the Nets on the road. Brooklyn is a red hot team and is on a 29-14 ATS run long-term against Central Division opponents. Charlotte has gone cold and is on a 12-33 ATS run long-term versus Atlantic Division opponents. The Hornets are also just 5-10 ATS when playing against teams with a losing record this season. The Nets are 13-7 ATS in games with a posted total of 220 points or more. 10* BROOKLYN |
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12-28-18 | Illinois-Chicago +7.5 v. Wright State | Top | 75-72 | Win | 100 | 9 h 46 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #811 Friday 10* Top Play Illinois-Chicago Flames (+) @ Wright State Raiders @ 7 ET - Though the Flames are allowing more points per game than the Raiders this season that has to with pace rather than defensive efficiency. In fact, Illinois-Chicago is allowing only 44.2% from the field including 35.1% from 3-point land while Wright State is allowing 46.3% from the field including 40.7% from beyond the arc. Additionally, the Raiders Loudon Love is listed as questionable for this game with an ankle injury. Wright State did win both games last season but the average margin was just 5.5 points per game and I feel UIC has closed the gap between these teams heading into this meeting. Also note that the Flames are the higher-scoring team and also the better shooting team from the field. Illinois-Chicago is 10-4 ATS in Friday games, 9-2 ATS when playing with 5 or 6 days of rest between games, and 18-8 ATS in games against teams with a losing record. Wright State is only 2-4 SU this season against teams that average 77 points or more per game and the Flames fall into that category. 10* ILLINOIS-CHICAGO |
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12-28-18 | Syracuse v. West Virginia +3 | Top | 34-18 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 3 m | Show |
Game of the Month Side - Rickenbach CFB Game #244 Friday 10* Top Play West Virginia Mountaineers (-) vs Syracuse Orange @ 5:15 ET in Camping World Bowl @ Camping World Stadium in Orlando, FL - The Mountaineers were favored by a TD before QB Will Grier announced he was skipping the bowl. While the absence of star QB Grier is significant, we've now seen a 10-point swing on this line as West Virginia has gone from a 7 point favorite to a 3 point dog. The Mountaineers TEAM is not made up of just ONE player. Also, the QB that West Virginia will use is not some guy they just picked up yesterday off the streets. 6'6 Jack Allison is a sophomore whom played in multiple games this season. Trey Lowe III, a 6'2 freshman, will also be available. With the extra practice time afforded by all the bowl practices the Mountaineers have an "wide open playbook" for this one per coach Dana Holgorsen. West Virginia is aware of the line on this game. They are aware that no one is giving them a chance in this game without Grier. Yes I am aware of WR Gary Jennings JR and offensive tackle Yodny Cajuste also being out for this game. However, the Orange defense (which was already a MAJOR weakness of the team) is expected to be without a defensive end, defensive tackle, AND defensive back for this bowl game! Syracuse does have a strong offense but, from playing the high-flying Big 12, West Virginia is certainly used to facing high-paced dangerous offenses. The Mountaineers are also highly motivated here because, as noted above, no one is giving them a chance in this one. The Orange are just 2-3 SU in their last 5 games away from home. West Virginia went 3-1 away from home this season prior to a tough 4-point loss at Oklahoma State. The Mountaineers went an undefeated 3-0-1 ATS against teams with a winning record this season. The Orange went only 2-2 SU against teams with a winning record this season. I am happy to fade the masses here as Syracuse plays in the ACC. Think about it. Who impressed in the ACC this season other than, of course, Clemson! The Orange are over-rated and the Mountaineers defense, constantly ridiculed, gives one of its best efforts of the season today to support the Grier-less offense. 10* WEST VIRGINIA |
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12-26-18 | Nuggets +3 v. Spurs | Top | 103-111 | Loss | -101 | 14 h 33 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NBA Game #583 Wednesday 10* Top Play Denver Nuggets (+) @ San Antonio Spurs @ 8:35 ET - Of course it looks enticing to play the small home favorite in a match-up like this but I am happy to back the road dog here. Both the Nuggets and Spurs are off losses but Denver is off their worst loss of the season and allowed a season-high in points. Note that they lost a key player to ejection midway in the 3rd quarter of that game and the Nuggets just didn't come ready to play that night. They paid for it and got dominated in the paint on both sides of the floor. Denver will undoubtedly be ready to make up for that effort here. The Nuggets entered that loss to the Clippers having won 11 of their last 13 games both SU and ATS! Also, Denver won the last two meetings with the Spurs last season and the prior loss was just a 2-point defeat at San Antonio. In other words, the 3 points could come in handy here but I am certainly making this play expecting an outright road upset. The Nuggets are 12-5 SU this season against teams with a winning record while the Spurs are just 6-8 SU this season against teams with a winning record. Also, Denver is a long-term 21-10 ATS, including 4-0 ATS the past two seasons, when they are off a game in which they allowed 130 points or more. The Nuggets have proven, as shown above, to be the better team in games against winning teams this season. Look for that trend to continue here. 10* DENVER |
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12-25-18 | 76ers +4 v. Celtics | Top | 114-121 | Loss | -101 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #561 Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Boston Celtics @ 5:35 ET - The Celtics are off a win versus Charlotte but previously Boston lost three straight! Also this included back to back losses at home in which the Celtics were completely dominated on the boards by both the Suns and the Bucks. With the rejuvenated and revenge-minded Sixers also fully capable of dominating the rebound department, Boston is likely to again be in trouble here. The Sixers have been on a surge ever since the trade for Jimmy Butler. The 76ers enter this game having won 13 of their last 18 games. Philly is a long-term 25-12 ATS when playing with 2 days of rest between games and also 7-1 ATS when a divisional game. Also, the Sixers are 6-3 ATS (including 7-2 SU) when playing with revenge this season! This one has the makings of an upset with the strong motivation factor for Philly (0-1 versus Boston this season after being knocked out of playoffs by Celtics last season). With the Celtics recent slump and Boston a long-term 7-13 ATS in home games with a posted total of 220 points or more, I am grabbing the points with the underdog Sixers in this one. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-25-18 | Hawaii +5 v. Rhode Island | Top | 68-60 | Win | 100 | 7 h 21 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CBB Game #603 Tuesday 10* Top Play Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (+) vs Rhode Island Rams @ 3:30 ET in Diamond Head Classic @ Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, HI - The Rams are off a win and tight cover versus Charlotte but that comes as no surprise as the 49ers are struggling this season and averaging 58.5 points per game. Rhode Island is 0-3 ATS in road games this season. Though this is a tourney game, since they're facing the host of the tourney in this one, it is a road game. Hawaii is 6-2 SU in home games this season including 4-2 ATS in lined home games. Also, long-term the Rainbow Warriors are 13-6 ATS as a home underdog in a range of 3.5 to 6 points. Hawaii has played well on the defensive end in their last 3 games and they've gone 2-1 SU and ATS. Overall, the Rainbow Warriors have won 3 of their last 4 games SU. The 49ers are 2-3 ATS their last 5 as a favorite but one of those ATS wins coming by just half a point. The home dog definitely offering value in this one. Look for an upset but grab the points with the Rainbow Warriors as they defend (literally) their home court on the final day of this Christmas weekend tourney. 10* HAWAII |
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12-23-18 | Chiefs -1.5 v. Seahawks | Top | 31-38 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 52 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Game #129 Sunday 10* Top Play Kansas City Chiefs (-) vs Seattle Seahawks @ 8:20 ET - While it may surprise some that the Chiefs are favored here considering the Seahawks long-term success at home, do note that KC is on a 16-5 ATS run as a road favorite. I like the fact that we can take the Chiefs off a loss here. Kansas City has yet to lose two straight games this season. The Seahawks are off a loss as well but they've already had a pair of 2-game losing streaks this season and this is a tough match-up for them. Seattle is going to have trouble keeping up with the #1 rated offense in the league. The Seahawks pass protection is much worse than that of the Chiefs. KC is 5-1-1 ATS on the road this season and also a long-term 21-9-1 ATS in games against NFC West opponents. Seattle is on a 3-7 ATS run in games played in the final 4 weeks of a regular season. The Chiefs are averaging 39 points per game on the road this season. The Seahawks have been held to 28 points or less in 10 of their 14 games this season. The Chiefs have scored 30 points or more in 10 of their last 14 games. While the Seahawks have the better defense in this match-up they've also been fortunate in terms of yardage allowed compared to points allowed. Additionally, their defensive edge over Kansas City is not nearly as significant as the Chiefs offensive edge over Seattle. Lay the small number with the away team and look for a road rout in this one! 10* KANSAS CITY |
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12-22-18 | Ravens v. Chargers -4 | Top | 22-10 | Loss | -105 | 15 h 7 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #124 Saturday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Chargers (-) vs Baltimore Ravnes @ 8:20 ET - Yes the Ravens have won 4 of their last 5 games. However, all 4 wins came against teams currently in last place in their respective divisions. Atlanta and Tampa Bay are tied for last place in the NFC South. The Bengals are in the cellar in the AFC North and the Raiders are in the basement in the AFC West. Those 4 teams are a combined 18 games under .500 on the season! However, all these recent wins for Baltimore are helping to keep this line lower than it should be and I won't hesitate to take advantage with a Chargers team that still has a shot at the #1 seed in the AFC post-season picture! The Ravens are 2-4 SU and ATS against teams with a winning record this season. The Chargers are 3-0 SU and ATS against teams with a winning record this season. Considering LA is also at home for this one and the line has dropped to a -4 as of early Saturday morning, there is great value with the small home favorite. 10* LOS ANGELES CHARGERS |
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12-22-18 | Raptors v. 76ers -4.5 | Top | 101-126 | Win | 100 | 14 h 56 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #526 Saturday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Toronto Raptors @ 7:35 ET - The Raptors Kyle Lowry is expected to miss this game and Toronto is in a back to back spot after the win versus Cleveland last night. They've gone 2-2 without Lowry in these 4 games he has missed but they lost both road games! Also, the Raptors are expected to be without Kawhi Leonard tonight since it is a back to back spot and he played 37 minutes last night. Surprisingly Toronto has had success in most of the games Leonard has missed this season but that is unlikely to be the case here. The 76ers are playing this game with double revenge as they have lost both games to the Raptors this season. Those losses came north of the border though and now the Sixers finally get their chance at home. Of course Philly is laying a small number here and that is certainly noteworthy as they are 15-3 SU in home games this season. Also, note that Philadelphia is 6-1 ATS (and SU) this season when off a divisional game. Prior to last night's big win over Cleveland, the Raptors were on a 3-8 ATS slide. Look for those struggles for Toronto at the betting window to resume as the 76ers get payback tonight. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-22-18 | Connecticut v. Villanova -6 | Top | 58-81 | Win | 100 | 6 h 25 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #608 Saturday 10* Top Play Villanova Wildcats (-) vs Connecticut Huskies @ 12:30 ET - The Wildcats are in a great value spot here. Villanova is off back to back losses and, while the loss to Penn certainly wasn't expected, there was no shame in falling just short against Kansas last Saturday. In fact, the Cats cover against the Jayhawks brought Villanova to 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games. For Nova, this is their final game of the calendar year as their next game is January 2nd versus DePaul in Big East action. In other words, you can bank on the Wildcats being ready to put forth a huge effort in this game. They are hungry and they don't want to end 2018 having not won a game since the 8th of December! As for Connecticut, they are off back to back wins but those came as a big favorite against both Drexel and Manhattan. The Huskies have played 4 games this season with a line in single digits and they've gone 1-3 SU and ATS in those 4 games. In other words, UConn has struggled in tougher match-ups and note also that the Huskies are 4-9 ATS in neutral court games. The Wildcats are on a 20-8 ATS run (including 3-0 ATS this season) in neutral court games. Grab the value with the rather small favorite in a spot where they are primed to dominate. 10* VILLANOVA |
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12-22-18 | Wake Forest v. Memphis -3.5 | Top | 37-34 | Loss | -105 | 7 h 10 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #222 Saturday 10* Top Play Memphis Tigers (-) vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons @ Noon ET - The absence of QB Sam Hartman and WR Greg Dortch is very significant for the Demon Deacons whereas the absence of RB Darrell Henderson for the Tigers is made up for by the fact they have another very talented runner in Patrick Taylor. Wake Forest finished the season with a blowout win at Duke but, prior to that, the Demon Deacons had allowed at least 316 passing yards in 4 of their 5 prior games. Wake Forest was so torched through the air in their two games just prior to the Blue Devils win, teams didn't have to run the ball on them well. But do not that prior to that the Demon Deacons run defense allowed 253 yards per game. The Tigers, even without Henderson, have Taylor and Tony Pollard and will do plenty of damage against this struggling run defense. The Demon Deacons went 2-7 ATS in games played on turf this season while the Tigers went 7-4 ATS on turf and will take advantage of the fast track at Legion Field in Birmingham, AL. Wake Forest is also on a 1-4 ATS run when playing with 2 or more weeks of rest between games while Memphis is on a 4-2 ATS run when playing with 2 or more weeks of rest. The Tigers defense got embarrassed in their loss at Central Florida 3 weeks ago (the 2nd time they blew a double-digit 2nd half lead against the Golden Knights this season) and they will make up for that here. 10* MEMPHIS |
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12-21-18 | Pistons +4 v. Hornets | Top | 86-98 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 53 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Friday 10* Top Play Detroit Pistons (+) @ Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - Not only has Detroit lost both match-ups with Charlotte this season, the Pistons also lost their final two match-up with the Hornets last season. Suffice to say, incentive is high for the road dog in this one. The Pistons lost at Charlotte by a single point last week Wednesday and it was on a last second shot too so the memory is certainly fresh. Look for Blake Griffin and Andre Drummond to dominate in the paint in this one for a very hungry Detroit team. The Pistons are off an OT win at Minnesota Wednesday and they are 7-2 SU this season when off a game in which they scored 115 points or more. The Pistons shot the ball very well against the Timberwolves. Detroit is also 8-4 ATS this season in road games! The Hornets are wrapping up a 10-game homestand and are just 8-17 SU their last 25 when they enter a game having played each of their 3 prior games at home. Also, Charlotte is on a 2-7 ATS run and are off a double digit win over the Cavaliers in their most recent game. That is noteworthy here as the Hornets are just 3-6 SU this season when off a win by 10 or more points. Give me the underdog here as they actually have a great shot at the outright upset per the above and I'll gladly take the generous points being offered. 10* DETROIT |
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12-21-18 | Cal-Irvine v. Butler -8 | Top | 54-71 | Win | 100 | 7 h 26 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #806 Friday 10* Top Play Butler Bulldogs (-) vs Cal-Irvine Anteaters @ 6:30 ET - With Cal-Irvine at 11-2 on the season and having played a strength of schedule very similar to the 8-3 Bulldogs, many will look at the Anteaters as a big dog value play here. However, a couple of key variables are favoring Butler here. UC-Irvine played Wednesday at Eastern Michigan so they are on short rest here. Also, the Bulldogs recently welcomed Duke transfer Jordan Tucker as he just became eligible. Granted he is not playing huge minutes yet but after scoring 10 points and snaring 7 rebounds in just 12 minutes in Tuesday's game, he certainly is a key asset for Butler to now have available. Butler is known for being a very tough team on their home floor. Also, the Anteaters have been held under 40% from the field in 3 of their last 4 road games. To put that in perspective in this match-up, the Bulldogs come into this game red hot with their shooting. Butler has averaged 80 points per game their last 3 games thanks to hot shooting from the field including from beyond the arc. The Anteaters have been strong defensively this season but the Bulldogs are actually 9-2 (SU and ATS) when facing teams that allow an average of 64 points or less. Not only is UC-Irvine on a 14-21 ATS run against teams with a winning record, it is an 11-27 SU run their last 38! Lay the points and expect a home blowout here. 10* BUTLER |
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12-20-18 | Rockets v. Heat +3.5 | Top | 99-101 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
TNT Annihilation - Rickenbach NBA Game #578 Thursday 10* Top Play Miami Heat (+) vs Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - Huge rest edge for the Heat here as they'll be playing for the first time since Sunday while the Rockets were busy going hard last night to set the NBA record (26) for three pointers last night. Houston now will be on the road and playing for the 3rd tine in 4 days while Miami is playing their 1st game in 4 days. Also, the Heat have revenge here after they got swept by the Rockets last season. Keep in mind Miami did sweep Houston the prior season but now, after the Rockets got their revenge last season, it is the Heat ready to avenge defeat this time around. Also note that Houston is an ugly 2-7 ATS this season when off a non-conference game and also 2-8 ATS when off a game in which they scored 115 points or more. As for the Heat, they are a 9-3 ATS in non-conference games this season including a perfect 4-0 ATS against Southwest Division opponents. Also, Miami has held their last two opponents to just 41.5% from the field. Conversely, the Rockets have allowed 53.3% or more from the field in 3 of their last 4 games. Look for the Heat to hold the edge defensively tonight and that will be the difference as Houston's shooters cool off on the road. The Rockets, in fact, are just 3-6 SU and ATS in their last 9 road games. More of the same here. 10* MIAMI |
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12-20-18 | Texas Tech +10 v. Duke | Top | 58-69 | Loss | -112 | 9 h 27 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #603 Thursday 10* Top Play Texas Tech Red Raiders (+) vs Duke Blue Devils @ 7 ET in New York, NY - The Red Raiders have no chance here! At least that is what the betting markets seem to think and I am happy to fade the masses here. Almighty Duke always gets so much love from bettors but I feel they will fall well short here. Yes the Blue Devils have played the tougher schedule this season and the location of this neutral court game favors Duke but Texas Tech is well-coached and is going to prove to be no push-over. The Red Raiders are playing great defense this season and also are shooting the ball very well on the other end of the court! This line has moved from an opener of 7 all the way up to a 10 and is offering great value on the big dog that, thanks to solid outside shooting, also has a great shot at the backdoor cover here - should that be needed. The Red Raiders are now 15-1 SU in December games the past 3 years. Also, Texas Tech is off to a 10-0 SU start this season that has seen them also go 4-0 ATS against teams with a winning record. Yes, Duke is one of the best teams in the country again, as per usual, but the Red Raiders are playing with a ton of confidence right now and they are a dangerous dog in this spot. The Blue Devils went 1-2 ATS (and SU!) against Big 12 opponents the past two seasons. Duke also is 0-2 ATS this season when playing with one day or less of rest between games and the Red Raiders certainly hold the rest edge here. 10* TEXAS TECH |
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12-18-18 | Northern Illinois +2.5 v. UAB | Top | 13-37 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 48 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CFB Game #211 Tuesday 10* Top Play Northern Illinois Huskies (+) vs UAB Blazers in Boca Raton Bowl @ 7 ET - The location of this bowl game (Boca Raton, FL) certainly favors the Blazers. However, the Huskies have faced a much tougher schedule this season UAB has. This is leading to some significant line value here with Northern Illinois. Additionally, I like the way the Huskies rallied against a quality Buffalo team to win the MAC Championship Game on the final day of November. Of course UNI is known for their quality defense but to see them comeback like they did against the Bulls also says a little something about the offensive capability of this team. The Huskies average points per game their last 11 games has been held down by two poor performances (vs Mia-OH and @ BYU). In the other 9 games, Northern Illinois has averaged scoring 25.8 points per game. The Huskies have a strong ground game on offense but it was also impressive to see them throw for 300 yards in the MAC Championship win over Buffalo. UAB has the better record on the season but has faced the much softer schedule and I look for the Blazers to be exposed in this game! Also, UAB is 0-3 (SU and ATS) in games played on grass and 0-2 (SU and ATS) in games against MAC opponents. UNI is a long-term 25-13 ATS in games with a line between +3 and -3. Also, the Huskies are 4-2 ATS (and 5-1 SU!) this season in games against teams with a winning record. 10* NORTHERN ILLINOIS |
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12-16-18 | Seahawks v. 49ers +4 | Top | 23-26 | Win | 100 | 7 h 44 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #326 Sunday 10* Top Play San Francisco 49ers (+) vs Seattle Seahawks @ 4:05 ET - This is the Niners final home game against a division rival this season (host NFC North foe Chicago next week) and I look for them to make the most of it. San Francisco is catching Seattle at the right time to spring the upset. The Seahawks are off their Monday night win over Minnesota that was a much closer game than the final score would indicate. Now the Seahawks are on the road and on a short week and are facing a 49ers team that has averaged 345.5 passing yards per game their past two games! The first of those two games was at Seattle and the Niners outgained the Seahawks by 121 yards but lost 43 to 16 on the scoreboard. That is a statistical anomaly that we can now take advantage of in terms of public perception this week. The 49ers are 6-2 ATS as a divisional home dog of more than 3 points when facing a team off a SU win. Yes the Seahawks got a big win over the Vikings Monday but Seattle went 2-6 ATS in their final 4 regular season games the past two seasons. Look for that trend to resume here. 10* SAN FRANCISCO |
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12-16-18 | 76ers -8 v. Cavs | Top | 128-105 | Win | 100 | 5 h 51 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach NBA Game #517 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Cleveland Cavaliers @ 3:35 ET - Situations just don't get much better than this and, yes, I am aware of Jimmy Butler being questionable for this game with a groin injury. The 76ers were a perfect 10-0 at home this season when the Cavaliers visited Philadelphia last month and put an end to that perfection with a dominating road win. The 76ers haven't forgotten that and it is time for payback here. With Philly off rare back to back losses, the hunger factor is even higher for the revenge-minded Sixers here. The last 7 times that the 76ers have been off a loss they've gone 5-2 ATS. Look for a huge road win and cover here. The Cavaliers are off a double digit loss to the Bucks but don't look for a bounce back here! Cleveland is actually an ugly 20-38 ATS when off a loss by a margin of 10 or more points. The Sixers are a long-term 31-16 ATS (including 4-1 ATS this season) when off a loss by a margin of 10 or more points. The 76ers are also 32-16 ATS when playing with home loss revenge. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-15-18 | Cincinnati v. Mississippi State -3 | Top | 59-70 | Win | 100 | 10 h 47 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #646 Saturday 10* Top Play Mississippi State Bulldogs (-) vs Cincinnati Bearcats @ 8:30 ET - As long-time followers know, I love to go against the grain. That is what my contrarian crusher picks are all about and, in this case, with a line move from -5 to -3 on the Bulldogs, I won't hesitate to step in. Keep in mind, Mississippi State is off an impressive neutral court win over Clemson last week and now they get this game at home against Cincinnati. The Bulldogs have balanced scoring with all 5 scorers averaging in double figures plus they are red hot from three point land. Hot shooting from beyond the arc can sometimes go hold WHEN a team heads on the road or is in an unfamiliar surrounding. As you can see, that should NOT be the case here as this game is at Mississippi State so the Bulldogs should remain RED HOT from outside. Keep in mind this is a revenge game from last season. Though the Bearcats won that game it was at Cincinnati and the Bulldogs were simply done in by poor shooting in the 65-50 loss. Also, gone for Cincy from that team are 3 players who accounted for 49 of the 65 points. All are playing pro ball now with 2 in the NBA and one playing professionally overseas. I also like the coaching edge in the rematch with Ben Howland over Mick Cronin. 10* MISSISSIPPI STATE |
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12-15-18 | Eastern Michigan v. Georgia Southern -3 | Top | 21-23 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 51 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #208 Saturday 10* Top Play Georgia Southern Eagles (-) vs Eastern Michigan Eagles @ 5:30 ET - Eastern Michigan is 0-3 ATS this season when they enter a game on a SU winning streak of 2 or more games. Georgia Southern is 4-0 ATS in non-conference games this season. Eastern Michigan had a late season bye and that doesn't necessarily help them here as they will be playing for just the 2nd time since their November 10th win versus Akron. Also, Eastern Michigan is 1-12 ATS when they face an opponent off B2B SU (and ATS) wins. That system fits here as Georgia Southern finished off the season with back to back wins and covers. Unlike Eastern Michigan, Georgia Southern did have a game on Saturday November 17th. This should lead to a little less "rust" for them in comparison with Eastern Michigan. Army, a ground-based attack like Georgia Southern, completely dominated time of possession in a win at Eastern Michigan in late October. Look for Georgia Southern to dominate in similar fashion with their option attack in this game. Eastern Michigan was 3-0 SU to finish the season but they benefited greatly from turnovers in those 3 games. Nothing close to that is likely to happen here as Georgia Southern has done a great job in the turnover department all season long. The ATS trends noted above are 19-1 / 95% in our favor here. 10* GEORGIA SOUTHERN |
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12-13-18 | Chargers +3.5 v. Chiefs | Top | 29-28 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NFL Game #301 Thursday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Chargers (+) @ Kansas City Chiefs @ 8:20 ET - This is contrarian all the way. The Chiefs have won 9 straight meetings with the Chargers and yet opened up as only a 3-point favorite at home here. Of course the line has already gone up a little (3.5 as of early game day morning) but an upset is likely here. The Chargers out-gained the Chiefs by nearly 200 yards in the first meeting in Los Angeles but fell short on the scoreboard. Payback time here. LA is on a 12-3-1 ATS run as a road dog in divisional games. Kansas City is just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games. 10* LOS ANGELES CHARGERS |
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12-13-18 | Morehead State v. Samford -7.5 | Top | 72-77 | Loss | -107 | 9 h 19 m | Show |
Thursday Thrasher - Rickenbach CBB Game #602 Thursday 10* Top Play Samford Bulldogs (-) vs Morehead State Eagles @ 7:30 ET - When I saw this game was coming up I knew I would be involved after what I witnessed Monday with Morehead State. The Eagles were down by 20 at half at Marshall and still down by 21 with under 2 minutes to go. I was holding a Thundering Herd ticket at -13. The game should be over. Inexplicably Morehead State finished the game on an 11-2 run to lose by 12. First off when a team is down that much there is no chance of a comeback and so usually the trailing team wouldn't even get off enough shots to even have a chance to score 11 points! It was one of the most unbelievable losses I have been a part of and I have been wagering for over 25 years now. We'll get payback tonight. In lined games, the Eagles have now been held to 36.2% or less from the field in 4 straight games! They are facing a Samford team that plays much better defense than they do. Morehead State is allowing 46.9% from the field this season while the Bulldogs are allowing just 37.9% from the field this season. The Eagles also do not defend the 3-point shot nearly as well as Samford does. The Bulldogs were done in by injuries last season but are well-coached and have bounced right back early this season. Samford is 8-2 on the season and the only losses were to Ohio State and an OT loss to Belmont whom plays in the same Ohio Valley Conference that Morehead State does. But Belmont won 24 games last season while the Eagles won only 8 games! Morehead State is on an 8-13 ATS run in non-conference games while the Bulldogs are 9-0 ATS this season! 10* SAMFORD |
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12-12-18 | Nets v. 76ers -7 | Top | 127-124 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 31 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #538 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Brooklyn Nets @ 7:05 ET - The 76ers will likely be without Jimmy Butler for this game. As a result, this line has been over-adjusted too low and I am happy to step in and take advantage. Keep in mind the Sixers played nearly the entire game versus Detroit without Bulter (0 points in 10 minutes early before he got hurt) and yet they still rolled the Pistons. Also, in their prior game (also versus Pistons but at Detroit), Joel Embiid was out and Butler took over. Philadelphia has plenty of options on offense because they also have Ben Simmons and then they've seen other role players stepping up and having big games for them. Embiid shook off early rust and had a huge game versus the Pistons and so he'll carry momentum right into this match-up with the Nets. Surprisingly, Brooklyn enters this game off back to back wins but, keep in mind, the Nets had previously lost 12 of their 14 prior games! They're facing a 76ers team that is 14-1 SU at home this season! This is why I have no hesitation in laying the modest number at home here with Philly! The Sixers are 6-3 ATS (and 9-0 SU) in home games with posted total of 220 points or more this season. The Nets are only 2-12 ATS in their last 14 SU losses. In other words, when they lose SU they also have been losing ATS at a high percentage clip. Look for that trend to continue here as Embiid again takes over with Butler sitting out. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-12-18 | Massachusetts v. Temple -8.5 | Top | 63-65 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 48 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Rickenbach CBB Game #704 Wednesday 10* Top Play Temple Owls (-) vs Massachusetts Minutemen @ 7 ET - The set-up here is perfect. The Minutemen are off a tight 1-point outright upset win as a nearly double digit dog at Providence while the Owls are off a 10 point loss to Philly rival Villanova. Temple is absolutely going to bring their "A game" tonight as a result and they also have revenge on their side. When these teams met two years ago UMass got the tight 3-point win at home despite the Owls having a double digit edge in field goal attempts. The point is that Temple just wasn't hitting their shots that night. Now the Owls get a revenge opportunity and it comes on their home floor. Additionally, the Minutemen only have 2 players back that played in that game while the players who logged the majority of the minutes for Temple in that game will be on the floor for this rematch. Massachusetts relies heavily on their 5'11 junior guard Luwane Pipkins and he is a great player. However, the Owls strength is their backcourt play and by containing (or at least limiting) Pipkins in this game, Temple will have a big edge as they are a much more balanced team than the Minutemen are. UMass is prone to turnover issues and the Owls are solid in terms of the turnover to steals ratio. In terms of technical support for this play, the Minutemen are 2-6 ATS this season and continue to be over-valued by the betting markets. Massachusetts is also 5-15 ATS in Wednesday games. The Owls are 12-4 ATS in games against teams that average 77 points or more per game. The key here being that they are much better defensively in comparison with the Minutemen. 10* TEMPLE |
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12-10-18 | Vikings +3 v. Seahawks | Top | 7-21 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 23 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach NFL Game #133 Monday 10* Top Play Minnesota Vikings (+) @ Seattle Seahawks @ 8:15 ET - The Seahawks are off a huge win and have won 3 straight games. However, Mike Zimmer's Vikings are finally getting a shot at revenge after that unbelievable playoff loss (missed chip shot FG) ended Minnesota's season. Note that Zimmer entered this season with ATS records of 25-9 when playing with revenge and 11-1 when facing an opponent off a straight up win by 10 or more points. Here Zimmer's Vikings catch Seattle off a 27 point thrashing of the 49ers. Also, in games 13 through 16 of a season Minnesota has gone 8-1 ATS as a road dog when they are facing an opponent off a home game. This game is sandwiched between divisional games for the Seahawks as they are off the Niners and then play them again at San Francisco Sunday. Seattle is 1-6 ATS in games played week before facing SF. The Seahawks were actually outgained by more than 100 yards by the 49ers last week but won the game thanks to 3 turnovers. In fact, Seattle's defense has not impressed and they allowed 28 points per game their 4 prior games and certainly should have allowed much more than 16 versus the Niners last week. Minnesota's defense did struggle at Foxboro last week versus the Patriots but, prior to that, they had been rock solid and I am expect them to return to top form in this crucial game filled with post-season impact. Grab the points here but expect the upset. 10* MINNESOTA |
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12-10-18 | Pistons v. 76ers -7 | Top | 102-116 | Win | 100 | 9 h 16 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #512 Monday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Detroit Pistons @ 7:05 ET - The 76ers are rested and ready here. Yes, I am aware of the Joel Embiid situation but he didn't play in the match-up with Detroit on Friday and yet the Sixers still won by a half dozen points and that game was at Detroit. While Philly has been off since Friday, the Pistons are in a tough scheduling spot here as they did battle with the Pelicans yesterday. That loss to New Orleans dropped the Pistons to 0-4 their last 4 games (SU and ATS). Not only does that make this a back to back spot for Detroit, it is also the Pistons 3rd game in the last 4 days. Detroit is 11-22 SU when playing on back to back days and 7 of their last 8 SU losses have also been ATS losses. In other words, when the Pistons do lose they usually don't cover either! As for the Sixers, when they get a SU win they usually do cover as 11 of their last 15 SU win have also been ATS wins. Philadelphia is on a 32-16 ATS run in games with a posted total of 220 or more. Also, the 76ers are on a 64-36 ATS run in home games. They are 13-1 SU in home games this season and are also 23-12 ATS when playing with 2 days of rest between games. All factors considered, including this line being around a 7 as of early game day morning, this is a great value spot on the Sixers as they have big situational edges here. Philly has held their last 5 opponents to a combined 40% from the field! Great defensive numbers while the Pistons have allowed 50% from the field in their last 4 games. All signs point to a home blowout here. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-10-18 | Morehead State v. Marshall -13 | Top | 64-76 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 56 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #880 Monday 10* Top Play Marshall Thundering Herd (-) vs Morehead State Eagles @ 7 ET - I am well aware of the fact that the Thundering Herd are off of an OT loss on Saturday and are on short rest here. However, I would argue that their scheduling situation is much better than that of the Eagles here. Morehead State has not played yet in December and is likely to be rusty. The Eagles also are walking right into a hornets nest tonight. Marshall is seeking revenge for a loss at Morehead State last season. I know the points are fairly big here but the Thundering Herd were 4-0 at home this season before the loss to Toledo Saturday and each of their last 3 home wins have come by a margin of at least 20 points. Both these teams like to play at a fast pace and with "run and gun" being the story here, the team that is NOT rusty and that is also at home and that is also playing with revenge certainly holds a large edge. Keep in mind Marshall was a pleasant surprise last season and even got a big upset win in the Big Dance too last spring. Though the Thundering Herd have underachieved early this season, this is the perfect spot for them to get on track as they take advantage of facing an Ohio Valley Conference foe that had lost 3 straight games (all by 17 or more) before blowing out a very small basketball program - Chillicothe - in their final game of November. Another key to just how much emphasis Marshall is placing on this game is that this is their final home game until mid-January! In other words, the Thundering Herd want to make the most of this opportunity and they won' take their foot off the gas here. The Eagles are 7-13 ATS in non-conference games. The Thundering Herd are 16-6 ATS when playing with 1 day or less of rest between games. 10* MARSHALL |
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12-09-18 | Eagles +3.5 v. Cowboys | Top | 23-29 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 3 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #129 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Eagles (+) @ Dallas Cowboys @ 4:25 ET - Yes the Cowboys have a rest edge here. However, they are off a huge upset win of the Saints. Also, the Eagles lost to Dallas in Philadelphia 4 weeks ago. The revenge-seeking Eagles are 15-5 ATS as a divisional road dog. The road team is a perfect 3-0 ATS the last 3 games in this series and Philly has covered 3 of their last 4 games at Dallas. The Eagles are 6-1 ATS when off a game against the Redskins. Also, Philadelphia is gaining confidence with back to back wins for the first time this season as the Super Bowl champions look to get their swagger back. They can tie up the Cowboys for 1st in the division with a win here so there is no concern that it is "too late" in the Eagles locker room. Could the Dallas upset of the Saints leave the Cowboys a little flat here? Note that the Eagles, in divisional games, when facing an opponent off a SU home dog win, have gone 7-1 ATS! Last but not least, when head coach Doug Pederson is off a divisional game (beat Redskins last week) and playing with revenge, has gone 5-1 ATS with the Eagles. Yes I am aware of the injury issues for the Eagles secondary but look for the road dog to rise up here after the embarrassment of that home loss 4 weeks ago with their powerful defensive line play being the difference in this rematch. On the other side of the ball, Carson Wentz and company had over 400 yards of offense against the Cowboys in the first game and also did it again with over 400 yards versus the Redskins last week. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-09-18 | Tennessee +4 v. Gonzaga | Top | 76-73 | Win | 100 | 4 h 6 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CBB Game #859 Sunday 10* Top Play Tennessee Volunteers (+) vs Gonzaga Bulldogs @ 3 ET in Jerry Colangelo Classic @ Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, AZ - As long-time followers know, I tend to be a contrarian and it is something that has served me very well through the years. This is another prime example of going against the grain. This line on #1 ranked and undefeated Gonzaga was as low as a -2 and has since been driven up to as high as a -4 in some spots. Of course this comes as no surprise as the betting markets are attracted to spots like this and also the game, though a "neutral site" is being played out west. That makes the Bulldogs the play here the way most people see it. What I see is we're getting some extra value here with an underdog that has the much better defensive stats on the season. Tennessee is the perfect example of what a "dangerous dog" is comprised of as they are allowing just 63.6 points per game on only 35.5% shooting from the field this season even though they've played a schedule that has been nearly equivalent to the strength of schedule Gonzaga has faced early this season. Keep in mind the Bulldogs barely beat Washington in their most recent game and also looked to be in trouble against Creighton (until late 2nd half) in their prior game. That is the same Bluejays team that got manhandled by Nebraska yesterday. The point is that the Bulldogs could be slightly over-rated at this point and I expect an upset here with the Vols so I will gladly grab the available points. Note that the Volunteers are 12-4 ATS when off a game in which they allowed 60 points or less. Also, Gonzaga is a long-term 7-13 ATS versus SEC opponents. 10* TENNESSEE |
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12-08-18 | Creighton +7 v. Nebraska | Top | 75-94 | Loss | -109 | 9 h 42 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #787 Saturday 10* Top Play Creighton Bluejays (+) @ Nebraska Cornhuskers @ 6 ET - Many will be looking to back the revenge-minded home team that also has the better numbers defensively and is a Top 25 team. However, in typical contrarian fashion, I am going the other way in this game. The Bluejays have had the Cornhuskers number in recent seasons and Creighton is very comfortable (and used to) playing at Nebraska. That negates a bit of the normal home court edge in a game like this. As a result, there is even more line value here with the under-valued underdog. Creighton is up to a 7 point dog as of early game day morning and this is a team that led Gonzaga pretty late in the game before falling short in last Saturday's action. The Bluejays have played a tougher schedule than Nebraska early this season and though Creighton's numbers on defense do not impress, the Huskers are also having trouble getting stops on defense of late. That said, if this game turns into a shootout it favors the sharp-shooters of Creighton plus it is good to have the points on your side in a rivalry game that could be close late. There is just so much confidence with the Bluejays here because of the way they can score and go on huge scoring runs plus they have the added confidence of having played well at Nebraska. From a technical standpoint, I like the fact that the Jays are 16-6 ATS (and 18-4 SU!) when off a game in which they allowed 80 points or more. Nebraska is just 6-9 SU after a game in which they allowed 80 points or more. Also, the Cornhuskers are on a 2-8 ATS run when hosting the Bluejays. 10* CREIGHTON |
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12-06-18 | Jaguars +5 v. Titans | Top | 9-30 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 57 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #101 Thursday 10* Top Play Jacksonville Jaguars (+) @ Tennessee Titans @ 8:20 ET - The Jaguars have had a disappointing season but that makes games like this, at this late stage in the season, even more important. In other words, here is a chance to really put a dent in the playoff hopes of a hated divisional foe. You can bank on Jacksonville wanting to make the most of this primetime opportunity with the entire NFL world watching. These are the games that see underachieving teams rise to the occasion. Riding the momentum of a shutout win over another division rival (Colts) last week, look for another strong effort from the Jags this week. Yes, Cody Kessler's career numbers at QB may not impress but he played the last two seasons in Cleveland. In other words, cut Kessler a little slack and also look for Leonard Fournette to help take some of the pressure off with some big runs. In terms of technical support here, the Jaguars are 9-1 ATS when they have a losing record, are entering a game off a SU win of less than 7 points, and are facing a divisional foe that is off a non-divisional match-up. That system fits perfectly here. Also, Jacksonville is 8-0 ATS when they are off a game versus a divisional foe in which they scored less than 7 points! Last but certainly not least, the Jags are a stellar 11-2 ATS when they dogs of less than 6 points and off a game in which they allowed less than 10 points. Look for the road dog, very strong defensively, to get revenge for the upset loss to Tennessee at home early this season as a double digit favorite. even if the Jaguars fall short of the outright win over the Titans, look for the points to still prove to be enough for the cover in this one. Supported by combined ATS trends of 28-3 (90%) per the above. 10* JACKSONVILLE |
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12-05-18 | 76ers +6 v. Raptors | Top | 102-113 | Loss | -105 | 12 h 50 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #511 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76'ers (+) @ Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - The 76ers head to Toronto in much different shape than when they traveled north of the border earlier this season. Philly now has Jimmy Butler and they also are carrying the confidence of a 3-game homestand sweep that saw them hold opponents under 99 points in all 3 games. The Sixers view this as a huge game to prove they can compete among the best in the east as most everyone has already anointed the Raptors as the highly likely Eastern Conference representative for the NBA Finals this season. Of course the Bucks and Sixers (and Celtics too once they get back on track) have a little something to say about that! Toronto's defense has struggled at times in 3 of their last 4 games. The Sixers have gotten back to playing the "right way" on the defensive end and, with Butler joining Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, this team is going to be a much tougher match-up than what Kawhi Leonard and company dealt with in late October! Philadelphia is 4-2 ATS (and 5-1 SU!) when playing with revenge this season. The 76ers are also a long-term 23-11 ATS when playing with 2 days of rest between games. Toronto is a long-term 8-18 ATS in home games with posted total of 220 points or more. Also, the Raptors are only 5-8 ATS in all home games this season. Don't be surprised if the Sixers get the upset here but I am happy to grab the generous points being offered. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-05-18 | Ohio State -5 v. Illinois | Top | 77-67 | Win | 100 | 10 h 41 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #529 Wednesday 10* Top Play Ohio State Buckeyes (+) vs Illinois Illini @ United Center in Chicago, IL @ 7 ET - The last time the Buckeyes faced the Illini away from Columbus they lost by 5. It is payback time here and the set-up is perfect. Ohio State is off a Big Ten home opener win and doesn't play again, after this game, until the 15th. That game will be against Bucknell. In other words, without a shadow of a doubt the Buckeyes are fully focused on this game and they are also catching a struggling Illinois team. The Illini have lost 6 of their last 7 games. The only 2 SU wins that Illinois has this season is when they were a double digit favorite. The problem with Illinois, just like last season, is defense. The Illini have allowed 7 straight opponents to make at least 46% of their shots from the field and, during this stretch they have allowed an average of better than 50% from the field for the opposition. The Buckeyes have been a pleasant surprise early this season and have been strong on both ends of the floor. They are playing well together as a cohesive group while Illinois has had issues with consistency which is not surprising given how many key players they lost from last season's team. I am aware of the injury involving Buckeyes freshman guard Luther Muhammad but Ohio State played very well without him versus Minnesota and have solid depth in their backcourt. The Buckeyes are 5-1 SU (and 4-2 ATS) against teams that allow 77 points or more per game. The Illiini are 5-11 SU (and 4-12 ATS) in neutral court games with a posted total between 145 and 149.5 points. The Buckeyes are allowing just 60 points per game this season while Illinois is allowing 77 points per game! 10* OHIO STATE |
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12-04-18 | Northeastern v. Syracuse -10 | Top | 49-72 | Win | 100 | 11 h 12 m | Show |
No Doubt Blowout Rout - Rickenbach CBB Game #720 Tuesday 10* Top Play Syracuse Orange (-) vs Northeastern Huskies @ 6:45 ET - The Orange are off a rather unimpressive effort versus Cornell. Yes they beat the Big Red but they certainly didn't dominate and their next game is going to be a Big East foe as they face Georgetown Saturday. Though that is still not a conference game for the Orange, the point is that Syracuse knows they need to clean things up sooner rather than later. Hosting Northeastern on Tuesday should provide the perfect opportunity to do just that. The Huskies are without three key players from last season and all are guards. Northeastern has been without Shawn Occeus (Colonial Defensive POY last season), Max Boursiquot (started all but 1 game last season), and Vasa Pusica. The latter of those 3 players is the Huskies best player by far and he has been out since Northeastern's big win over Alabama. The short-handed Huskies just won't have enough to get by the deeper and much more talented Orange. Syracuse also will be in "response mode" on the defensive end as they've been a little lackluster in that aspect of their game recently and head coach Jim Boeheim is demanding a strong effort in this game. As injury-riddled as Northeastern is, they still have some solid outside shooters and the Orange must contest those shots. Look for them to do just that and to dominate this game. Look for the Orange to improve to 3-0 ATS when they are a favorite in a range of 10 to 19 points this season. The Huskies drop to 0-4 ATS the last 4 times they've been a dog. 10* SYRACUSE |
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12-04-18 | Magic +2.5 v. Heat | Top | 105-90 | Win | 100 | 12 h 38 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #703 Tuesday 10* Top Play Orlando Magic (+) @ Miami Heat @ 7:35 ET - The Heat were favored by 2.5 AT Orlando in their season opener and lost. That makes this a revenge game for Miami and some may be surprised to see they are again favored by 2.5 even though this game is on their home floor. However, the key is that Goran Dragic is still out for the Heat. Even though he practiced with the team Monday he has already been ruled out for Tuesday and will be missing his 8th straight game. Why is this significant? He is certainly one of Miami's best players and, in fact, led the Heat with 26 points in the first game with the Magic and that was a 3 point loss! Note that the Magic enter this game having gone 8-2-1 ATS this season on the road. As for Miami, they are a horrible 1-6 ATS in divisional games this season. Overall, Orlando is on a 10-1-1 ATS run their last dozen games and they've been off for 3 days entering this match-up. The Heat are off back to back upset wins but Miami has shot just 41% from the field in those two games. The Magic have shot 50% their last two games and will be ready for another divisional battle here. 10* ORLANDO |
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12-03-18 | Redskins v. Eagles -6 | Top | 13-28 | Win | 100 | 13 h 30 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #380 Monday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Eagles (-) vs Washington Redskins @ 8:15 ET - The Redskins are a very banged up team and the Eagles will take advantage. We're getting line value here because it has, without a doubt, been a sub-par season (to put it mildly) for the defending Super Bowl Champs. The fact is that, with a win Monday night, Philadelphia moves into a 2nd place tie with Washington in the NFC East and will be just 1 game behind the Cowboys. That said, guess what is up next on the Eagles schedule. A trip to Dallas on Sunday. In other words, the season is still very much alive for Philly despite the ups and downs they've endured. The Redskins offense is loaded with injuries and it is much more than just QB Alex Smith's devastating injury that has them in trouble here. Washington's offensive line has practically been gutted by injuries. The Eagles powerful defensive line will take advantage. Note that Philadelphia is 7-1 SU (and 6-2 ATS) in home games with an O/U posted between 42.5 and 45 points. Also, the Redskins are on a long-term 10-23 ATS run in Monday night games including 0-5 in recent seasons! The Eagles saved their season with last week's comeback win over the Giants and the way they played that 2nd half is the way they will come out and attack the Redskins right away beginning with the opening kick-off in this one. The result should be a home rout for the much healthier offense in this match-up. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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12-03-18 | Iowa v. Michigan State -10 | Top | 68-90 | Win | 100 | 9 h 56 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach CBB Game #516 Monday 10* Top Play Michigan State Spartans (+) vs Iowa Hawkeyes @ 6:30 ET - The Spartans have opened up as a double digit favorite even though the Hawkeyes are very close to them in the rankings. Must be a mistake, right? Of course it is not a mistake but bettors will be attracted to Iowa as a result. Don't be fooled here as Michigan State should win this game in an absolute annihilation. The Spartans have played a tougher schedule than Iowa and also are the much deeper and much more veteran team. The Hawkeyes also were hoping for key contributions in the front-court this season from Jack Nunge and Cordell Pemsl. Both guys are out for the season. Granted they were not their stars but Iowa could ill afford to lose depth. Keep in mind this is the Hawkeyes first true road game of the season and they are 4-17 SU and 4-15 ATS in road games the past two seasons. The Spartans are a dominating 15-1 SU (and 12-4 ATS) in their last 16 home games versus Iowa. Also, Michigan State has already had wake-up calls with a loss at Louisville and a tight win at Rutgers. Remember the Spartans did lose their season opener (by just 5 points against powerful Kansas). In other words, this is a team that has already been battle tested and has proven worthy of respect. In this game, their Big Ten home opener, look for the Spartans to put one foot on the throats of the Hawkeyes and they won't take their other foot off the gas either! In other words, they dominate this one and win by 15 to 20 points. Michigan State is the much better team in terms of shooting and defense plus they've played the tougher schedule as noted above. Look for the Spartans to improve to 7-1 SU (and 6-2 ATS) on the season when favored. 10* MICHIGAN STATE |
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12-02-18 | Vikings v. Patriots -4.5 | Top | 10-24 | Win | 100 | 7 h 15 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach NFL Game #376 Sunday 10* Top Play New England Patriots (-) vs Minnesota Vikings @ 4:25 ET - The Patriots have won 7 of their last 8 games and when they win SU they almost always cover. The SU winner in New England's games this season is, in fact, 10-1 ATS this season and I fully expect a dominating home win and cover here. The Patriots are 8-2 ATS as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points and also have gone 8-2 ATS in December games the past two seasons. The Vikings wins this season have all come against teams that currently have a losing record on the year. In their 3 games against teams that currently have a winning record on the season, Minnesota has gone 0-3 and all 3 losses came by 5 or more points. Those Vikings losses came against the Bears, Saints, and Rams. As for the Patriots they've played 4 games against teams that currently have a winning record. New England has gone 4-0 in those games and only one win came by less than 7 points. The average margin of victory in those 4 games was 8 points. The Pats have beaten the Colts, Texans, Bears, and Chiefs. I'll take the team that has risen to the occasion when its been required this season and I feel we're getting good value here as the spread on this game has dropped through the week. The Patriots are 12-1-1 ATS when they are off a divisional road game and now facing a non-divisional opponents. Look for the Pats to do it again Sunday after last week's blowout win at New York against the Jets. Note that last week's win for the Vikings over Green Bay was the first time in 5 tries that Minnesota has covered a game following a divisional game. After that big win over the Pack, look for the Vikes to fall flat here against a Patriots team on a typical December "mission" as the Pats are known for late season success, especially at Foxboro! 10* NEW ENGLAND |
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12-01-18 | Fresno State +1 v. Boise State | Top | 19-16 | Win | 100 | 13 h 27 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #317 Saturday 10* Top Play Fresno State Bulldogs (+) vs Boise State Broncos @ 7:45 ET in MWC Championship Game at Albertson's Stadium in Boise, ID - The Broncos continue to find a way to get past the Bulldogs in recent meetings despite the great improvement we've seen from Fresno State recently. I feel strongly however that Boise State's "luck" runs out here. The Broncos are a great team but they are not on the level they were in other recent campaigns. Though Boise State has beaten Fresno State in each of their 2 most recent meetings, the Bulldogs have had a lead in each of the last 3 games (including leads at half-time and beyond and into 4th quarter) and yet have lost each of the last 2 games. It is payback time here. I know that Boise has the location edge here but the Broncos strength is their passing game and Fresno State has a strong pass defense. That said, the key edge here is the Bulldogs potent passing attack going against a Boise State pass defense that has struggled at times this season. Winds will be light for this game so despite chilly temperatures and some light snow or light rain, the passing game can flourish with no impact expected from wind here. That said, the Bulldogs hold a big edge thanks to being the much better pass defense. Finally they get their revenge here. Boise State is 1-5 ATS in home games with a posted total between 49.5 and 56 points. Fresno State is 12-2 ATS in games against teams with a winning record. Road team revenge here for the Bulldogs. 10* FRESNO STATE |
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12-01-18 | Cincinnati v. UNLV +6.5 | Top | 65-61 | Win | 100 | 9 h 35 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach CBB Game # 580 Saturday 10* Top Play UNLV Rebels (+) vs Cincinnati Bearcats @ 6 ET - It wasn't that long ago that Bearcats head coach Mick Cronin supposedly had accepted the UNLV job and yet, when he did not, speculation ran rampant that he merely used the Rebels to gain leverage with his contract situation at Cincinnati. Note that Cronin did get a 2-year extension with the Bearcats after the UNLV "debacle". Suffice to say, emotions will be running high for this one as UNLV now hosts Cronin's Bearcats Saturday afternoon at 3 PM local time here in Vegas. Rebels head coach Marvin Menzies has done a great job rebuilding the UNLV basketball program. Even though they lost some key players from last year's team, they had a great recruiting class and have plenty of talent this season. With the young Rebels able to play host in this one, I see them holding the edge over a Cincinnati team playing its first true road game of the season. Note that the Bearcats have covered 4 straight games but they were favored my more than a dozen points in 3 of the 4 games. The Rebels are off a loss but previously had won 4 straight games and I look for them to bounce back strong here. Grab the big points here. 10* UNLV |
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11-30-18 | Jazz +2 v. Hornets | Top | 119-111 | Win | 100 | 10 h 14 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #707 Friday 10* Top Play Utah Jazz (+) @ Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - The Jazz got Donovan Mitchell back in their most recent game as he saw his first significant action in the past 4 games. Utah could also have newly acquired Kyle Korver on the floor for this game too. Of course he is going to be a big boost to the 3-point shooting woes the Jazz have experience. The Hornets are off back to back wins for the 4th time this season. That holds significance here as Charlotte has yet to win 3 straight games so far this season. I don't expect that to change here. Look for the Jazz to improve to 5-2 SU and ATS when coming off a non-conference game this season. The Hornets are 13-23 SU and ATS when off a divisional game. This game also involves the East vs West theory which is one that, in recent seasons, favors the West as they've been the stronger conference for many consecutive seasons now. Look for Charlotte to drop to 0-3 SU this season in games against non-conference foes. The Jazz are 13-7 SU their last 20 against Southeast Division opponents and also 40-22 SU when off a win by a double digit margin. Look for another road rout for the Jazz here. 10* UTAH |
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11-30-18 | Mississippi State -3.5 v. Dayton | Top | 65-58 | Win | 100 | 9 h 29 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #725 Friday 10* Top Play Mississippi State Bulldogs (-) @ Dayton Flyers @ 7 ET - This is a revenge game for the Flyers as they lost at Mississippi State last season. However, though that was only a 2-point loss for Dayton, the Flyers were actually down by 15 points at the half. The Bulldogs let them back in the game in the second half but I expect this year's match-up to play out much differently. Mississippi State is loaded with returning talent and veteran leadership while Dayton lost some key pieces compared to the team they were two seasons ago. That said, I have no hesitation in laying the short number on the road in this one. The Bulldogs are the better team, the bigger team, and the more veteran team. Also, Mississippi State is a fantastic 32-15 ATS when they enter a game having failed to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games. Additionally, the Bulldogs are on a 4-0 ATS run in Friday games. The Flyers are on a 3-7 ATS run when playing with 5 or 6 days of rest between games. Look for Dayton to show some "rust" here as they have not played in a week and I expect the Flyers to drop to 3-6 ATS the last 9 times they've been a home dog in a range of 3.5 of 6 points. 10* MISSISSIPPI STATE |
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11-29-18 | Saints -7 v. Cowboys | Top | 10-13 | Loss | -115 | 26 h 50 m | Show |
Thursday Thrasher - Rickenbach NFL Game #301 New Orleans Saints (-) @ Dallas Cowboys @ 8:20 ET - The Saints are 10-0 SU their last 10 games and 9-0 ATS their last 9 games. While the Cowboys certainly deserve some respect here, I am happy to lay the points here (currently some 7's available as of Wednesday evening) with one of the best and most balanced offenses in the league. Not only does that describe New Orleans, the Saints also are the #1 rush defense in the NFL! That is significant here because the Cowboys are one of the worst passing teams in the leagues. Dallas relies on Ezekiel Elliott and the ground game for success on offense and that is a problem here. Not only is Elliott up against the #1 ranked run defense, he also has been a little bothered by his hip heading into this game. Elliott is probable but is he really 100%? It may not matter anyway as the Saints are just too much offense for other teams to keep up with. The fact is that New Orleans is firing on all cylinders right now and I also like the fact that the Saints are 4-0 ATS in road games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more this season. The Cowboys are on a 1-4 ATS run in home games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more. Also, the Saints are a long-term 9-3 SU and ATS in their last dozen meetings with the Cowboys. Dallas has won 3 straight games and faced the Redskins, Falcons and Eagles. The Cowboys average margin in those 3 games was 6 points. The Saints also have recently faced the Falcons and Eagles plus also faced the Redskins in early October. The average margin of New Orleans 3 victories was 26 points - a 20 point variance from the Cowboys margin. The fact is I would not be surprised to see the Saints win this one by 20 but certainly I am expecting at least a double digit margin here. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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11-29-18 | Warriors +9.5 v. Raptors | Top | 128-131 | Win | 100 | 10 h 53 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Thursday 10* Top Play Golden State Warriors (+) @ Toronto Raptors @ 8:05 ET - It is the wounded dog that bites the hardest! In other words, just because Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are likely out for this game it does not mean the Warriors are going to be a push-over for the Raptors. Golden State has been getting the job done even without these guys and I like the fact that the Warriors have held their last 3 opponents to a combined 42.9% from the field. The Raptors burned me at Memphis Tuesday as they rallied from a 17 point deficit and they got the win and cover at the Grizzlies despite Toronto attempting just 69 shots from the field. The fact is that the Raptors have allowed 10 field goal attempts more than they've taken in their last 3 games combined. Were it not for a ridiculous 61% shooting percentage from the field at Memphis Tuesday, the Raptors never would have won that game and they're certainly not repeating that effort against the Warriors tonight. Golden State will be "dialed in" on defense tonight because, even with missing a few guys, the last thing they want to do is get blown out in a possible NBA finals preview. The Warriors will bring their "A game" for this one. When GS is on an over streak of 3 or more consecutive overs, they've gone 14-6 ATS in recent seasons including a perfect 3-0 ATS this season! Toronto is 0-3 ATS this season in home games against Western Conference opponents. More of the same here. 10* GOLDEN STATE |
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11-28-18 | Wizards v. Pelicans -6 | Top | 104-125 | Win | 100 | 11 h 31 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #716 Wednesday 10* Top Play New Orleans Pelicans (-) vs Washington Wizards @ 8:05 ET - The Wizards have shot a ridiculously high percentage from the field in their last two games. One of those was against the Pelicans. However, both of those games were in Washington and I don't expect the Wizards to stay hot now that they are on the road for this one. The Wizards are just 2-7 SU on the road this season while New Orleans is 8-2 SU at home this season. Now, of course, we need more than just a SU win to get the cash here. However, note that Washington is 0-7 ATS when they lose on the road. In other words, when the Wizards lose, they don't cover either when away from home! As for the Pelicans, the average margin of their 8 home wins this season is 11 points and I expect another double digit win as they are in full-on revenge mode for this one. The Pelicans have been swept in each of the past two seasons by the Wizards and they want to avoid that same fate this season by coming up with a huge win here. I expect them to do just that! Washington is 0-3 SU and ATS in road games with a posted total of 230 points or more this season. Look for the Pelicans to improve to 4-0 SU and 3-1 ATS in home games with a posted total of 230 points or more this season. Payback revenge game on tap here and the half-dozen points means a very manageable line for what should be a home blowout. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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11-28-18 | Syracuse +5.5 v. Ohio State | Top | 72-62 | Win | 100 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CBB Game #737 Wednesday 10* Top Play Syracuse Orange (+) @ Ohio State Buckeyes @ 7:15 ET - Coming into the season I had Syracuse ranked much higher than Ohio State. So far this season the Orange have underachieved while the Buckeyes overachieved. The result is that Ohio State is ranked and Syracuse unranked heading into this match-up. Keep in mind, the Orange just got back senior guard Frank Howard and he had 5 assists in 19 minutes in his first game back. Syracuse, with Howard back, is a much different team. The Orange have plenty of talent and plenty of veteran leadership to beat a team like the Buckeyes on Ohio State's home floor. That said, the fact that we're getting about a half-dozen points here too make this one a "must play" in my book. Syracuse is well-rested here and they've gone 6-2 SU and ATS the past two seasons when they enter a game with 5 or 6 days of rest between games. The Buckeyes are 8-14 ATS in games with a posted total in the 130s and Ohio State is an ugly 11-18 ATS their last 29 non-conference games. Big time line value with the underdog Orange in this one. 10* SYRACUSE |
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11-27-18 | Lakers v. Nuggets -4 | Top | 85-117 | Win | 100 | 12 h 47 m | Show |
Rickenbach NBA Game #510 Tuesday 10* Top Play Denver Nuggets (-) vs Los Angeles Lakers @ 9:05 ET - While the Lakers are off a loss and looking to bounce back here, they are still without guard Rajon Rondo. Playing without your starting point guard is never fun but this is particularly true when you are on the road at Denver! Not only is Denver a tough place to play, the Nuggets have revenge on their minds here and they are likely to have guard Gary Harris back in the lineup for this one. Even if they don't, other stepped up in his absence Saturday as the Nuggets upset the Thunder at Oklahoma City. Denver is back on track with 3 straight wins and they are hungry for revenge here against LeBron James and company! The home team is 7-1 SU (and ATS!) in the last 8 meetings between these teams. Also, the Nuggets are 4-0 SU and ATS this season when they enter a game on an "under" streak of 3 or more games. The fact is that Denver has been playing very well on the defensive end and that is noteworthy here as the Lakers are having issues with turnovers in recent games. The Lakers are just 5-9 ATS their last 14 games and this is not the time or place for them to turn things around! 10* DENVER |
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11-27-18 | Virginia Tech v. Penn State +2.5 | Top | 62-63 | Win | 100 | 11 h 34 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CBB Game #518 Tuesday 10* Top Play Penn State Nittany Lions (+) vs Virginia Tech Hokies @ 7 ET - The public will be backing the ranked road team in this one. However, the home dog should prove to be the correct side. The Hokies are still without guard Chris Clarke and Virginia Tech is facing an angry Penn State team here. The Nittany Lions are off a low-scoring loss to Bradley where they shot horribly and, as a result, they can't wait to get back on the floor. Keep in mind, Penn State won 26 games last season and they are being undervalued here in this spot. The Nittany Lions are 13-7 ATS when off a game in which they allowed 60 points or less. Also, PSU is 5-1 ATS when off a game in which they scored 60 points or less. In road games with a posted total between 140 and 144.5 points, the Hokies are a long-term 9-20 SU and that includes 2-4 SU in recent seasons. The home team has won 3 of the 4 meetings between these teams and I look for that trend to continue here as Virginia Tech has enjoyed particular success with 3-pointers (41.4% this season) but they're facing a Nittany Lions perimeter defense that has surrendered just 22.9% from beyond the arc this season! 10* PENN STATE |
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11-25-18 | Packers +3.5 v. Vikings | Top | 17-24 | Loss | -105 | 13 h 31 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #271 Sunday 10* Top Play Green Bay Packers (+) @ Minnesota Vikings @ 8:20 ET - Both the Packers and Vikings are off losses last week and, as a result, with the Bears win over the Lions on Thanksgiving Day, Chicago is running away with the NFC North Division. That means this game features a match-up of two teams desperately trying to stay alive in the playoff picture. Even though the first game between these teams this season finished in a tie, this truly is a revenge game for the Packers. Green Bay, at home, had a 13-point lead entering the 4th quarter of that match-up. Also, the Packers gave up a touchdown AND the 2-point conversion with less than a minute to go in the game. Suffice to say, Aaron Rodgers and Company have had this game circled in red ever since! Keep in mind the Vikings were also helped in that 4th quarter comeback by a controversial roughing the passer penalty. I am well aware of the fact that Green Bay is 0-5 SU on the road this season. As long-time followers know I tend to be a contrarian and this is particularly true in the NFL. Ask yourself this: how can the Vikings be favored by only about a FG here when they are 9-2 SU their last 11 at home and Packers are 0-5 SU their last 5 on the road? Exactly! When things look too easy they truly never are and I expect Green Bay to finally get that first road win Sunday night in a crucial game. I will grab the points, currently available at +3.5, as added "insurance" though should the Packers fall just short. GB is off a Thursday game so they do have extra rest and the Packers are 5-0 ATS when off a Thursday game. The Packers match-up very well with the Vikings and their biggest weakness (run defense) is one the Vikings (#31 out of 32 for rush offense) are unlikely to be able to take advantage of. That said, I'll take Rodgers over Kirk Cousins as the Vikings QB is 4-12 in primetime games in his career! 10* GREEN BAY PACKERS |
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11-24-18 | Utah State +3 v. Boise State | Top | 24-33 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 52 m | Show |
The CFB Game of the Year - Rickenbach CFB Game #181 Saturday 10* Top Play Utah State (+) over Boise State @ 10:15 ET - Utah State's ground game is producing 217 yards per game and 5.7 yards per carry. Boise State's rushing attack is producing 159 yards per game and 4.2 yards per carry. The Aggies also have an edge in terms of pass defense on the season. Utah State is allowing only 52.3% pass completions and 6.6 yards per pass attempt. Boise State is allowing 63% pass completions and 8.2 yards per pass attempt. The winner of this game goes to the Mountain West title game (will face Fresno State) and Boise State is a popular choice here due to their very successful home record over many seasons. This home factoring for the Broncos is of course already playing a big role in the line because the Aggies are such a strong team and yet are getting points here due to Boise State's high success rate in home games.. The result here is line value with Utah State. The Aggies are seeking revenge for a blowout loss at home versus Boise State last season. Utah State was out-gained by only 26 yards in the prior year's meeting (at Boise State) and the year before that the Aggies blew out the Broncos 52-26. The point is that Utah State (last year notwithstanding) was starting to turn the corner in this series (under head coach Matt Wells) and I expect that to continue here on Saturday night. Also, the Broncos are off a big win at New Mexico and they are on an 0-5 ATS run when off a game against the Lobos. Of course that 5-0 ATS play against situation is in play here as Boise State is off a trip to New Mexico. The Aggies do enter this game on a 10-game winning streak SU. Also, the Broncos are 4-8 ATS their last 12 games against teams with a winning record. I expect an upset win here and won't be surprised when the Aggies win this game in a road rout. 10* Utah State |
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11-23-18 | Northern Iowa v. Old Dominion -7 | Top | 65-72 | Push | 0 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CBB Game #534 Friday 10* Top Play Old Dominion Monarchs (-) vs Northern Iowa Panthers @ 7 ET - Had my eyes on this match-up all along as these teams were in a tournament in the Virgin Islands and did end up meeting already this season in that tourney. Old Dominion lost that game by a single point to Northern Iowa even though the Monarchs had a dozen more shot attempts from the field than the Panthers in that one. The point is that it was simply an "off" shooting night for Old Dominion but now they get a chance at revenge and the opportunity comes on their home floor where the Monarchs are fully capable of a dominating effort. Yes, Old Dominion lost some talent from last season's very successful team but they've "reloaded" well and Northern Iowa lost much more and certainly has been in a bit of a stagnant cycle in recent seasons. Note also that the Panthers are 9-21 ATS as an underdog, 5-18 ATS in road games, 3-12 ATS in road games with a posted total in the 120s, and 5-18 ATS when off a game in which they were held to 60 points or less! Long-term the Monarchs are 45-9 SU as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points. Couple that with Northern Iowa's poor ATS record as an underdog (plus the strong situational edge here) and you can see why a big home win (and cover!) is in the forecast for this one! 10* OLD DOMINION |
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11-23-18 | Central Florida v. South Florida +14.5 | Top | 38-10 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 23 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #134 Friday 10* Top Play South Florida Bulls (+) vs Central Florida Knights @ 4:15 ET - South Florida started the season 7-0 but has now lost 4 straight games. Certainly the Bulls were over-rated earlier this season. However, they are now at home catching 14.5 points (as of early Friday morning) in this rivalry game with Central Florida and they are catching the Knights at the perfect time. That is because UCF is off a huge win over Cincinnati last week. That game was expected to be a war (Knights at home and favored by just 7) and yet Central Florida won easily. It is off that type of game (with so much anticipation leading into it) that a team can end up struggling in the very next game. I do expect UCF to get the win here but by just a single score! South Florida is 8-2 (80%) ATS when they are facing a team with a winning record that is off a SU win by a double digit margin. Of course that system fits here for the Bulls and that was truly a massive victory for UCF last week. Long-term USF is on an 8-4 ATS run in games against teams with a winning record. Also, the Bulls are 3-0 ATS as an underdog in a range of 10.5 to 21 points and 2 of the 3 wins were outright upsets! Don't be surprised if USF gives Central Florida all they can handle in this one and it goes down to the wire. 10* SOUTH FLORIDA |
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11-22-18 | Falcons +13.5 v. Saints | Top | 17-31 | Loss | -120 | 13 h 34 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #109 Thursday 10* Top Play Atlanta Falcons (+) @ New Orleans Saints @ 8:20 ET - The Saints are stream-rolling everyone right now so, of course, they're a popular choice in this match-up. However, their line is truly over-inflated and New Orleans is facing a division rival that, before a tight loss earlier this season, had beaten them in 3 of the last 4 games. Also, 2 of the Falcons last 4 visits to New Orleans have resulted in outright wins. I am not necessarily expecting an upset here but I am expecting the Falcons to stay well within this large number. How many times has Atlanta lost by more than 10 points to the Saints in the past 13 meetings? ZERO! Also, the Falcons are on an 11-3 ATS run in Thursday games. The Saints, under coach Sean Payton, are an ugly 1-10 ATS when they are off a SU win by double digits, and facing an opponent off back to back SU losses! Also, under coach Payton, New Orleans is a poor 2-13 ATS as a favorite off a non-divisional game and facing a divisional opponent whom is playing with revenge. These are strong systems that each favor the big road dog Falcons here. The Saints are also 5-13 ATS as a favorite of 10 or more points. Statistically these teams match up much more closely than their won-loss records would lead you to believe. Look for this one to be tight all the way which means HUGE value with the BIG points. 10* ATLANTA |
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11-22-18 | Mississippi State -12 v. Ole Miss | Top | 35-3 | Win | 100 | 11 h 0 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #113 Thursday 10* Top Play Mississippi State Bulldogs (+) @ Ole Miss Rebels @ 7:30 ET - As a general rule, it is a good idea to at least take a look at the underdog in rivalry games. That's because rivalry games have a bit of an "anything can happen" theme and also because they tend to play out "tighter" than many other games with less blowouts. However, just as with anything "typical" there are exceptions and this is one of them. Last year the Rebels upset the Bulldogs at Mississippi State and this is a legitimate revenge situation and the situation is absolutely perfect to back the revenging team. Why? Because the Bulldogs are so much better than the Rebels this season! Ole Miss is on an 0-4 SU run. Also, the Rebels have gone 0-7 ATS in SEC games this season! Mississippi is allowing nearly 500 yards per game this season! Conversely, Mississippi State's fantastic defense has allowed just 12.8 points per game and only 275.6 yards per game. The Bulldogs defense gave up just 24 points when they faced Alabama while the Rebels defense game up 62 points when they faced the Crimson Tide! Mississippi State has allowed 13 points or less in 8 of 11 games this season. Ole Miss has allowed at least 31 points in 5 straight games! The Rebels are allowing 36.3 points this season. The Bulldogs are 6-2 ATS as a favorite this season while Mississippi is 0-5 ATS as an underdog this season. After losing QB Fitzgerald to injury in last season's game against the Rebels and eventually losing the game too (by 3 as a double digit favorite) it is payback time in 2018's meeting! 10* MISSISSIPPI STATE |
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11-21-18 | Pelicans +4.5 v. 76ers | Top | 120-121 | Win | 100 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Wednesday 10* Top Play New Orleans Pelicans (+) @ Philadelphia 76'ers @ 7:05 ET - The 76'ers will be the popular choice here as they are yet to lose a game at home this season. However, the Pelicans are 4-0 SU in games against Eastern Conference foes this season and that includes 3-0 SU versus Atlantic Division opponents. Those wins including a double digit victory for New Orleans at Toronto last week. The Pelicans have been red hot with their shooting and the 76ers certainly haven't been known for their defense this season. The Sixers added Jimmy Butler in the huge deal with Minnesota but the Markelle Fultz saga continues and J.J. Redick is listed as questionable for tonight's game. Philly is 1-6 ATS this season after scoring 115 points or more in their prior game. The Pelicans are 4-1 SU (and ATS) when off a win by a double digit margin this season. Rolling with momentum after knocking off the Spurs Monday, the Pelicans get the job done again on the road at Philly Wednesday. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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11-21-18 | CS-Fullerton +4.5 v. Hofstra | Top | 71-80 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 9 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #531 Wednesday 10* Top Play Cal State Fullerton Titans (+) @ Hofstra Pride @ 7 ET - Though the Titans are all the way on the East Coast for this game they were already out east for a tournament in Myrtle Beach, SC that wrapped up over the weekend. That said, this is not too bad of a travel situation for Cal State Fullerton. I like the fact that the Titans have veteran leadership, strong guard play and are the better team defensively in comparison with Hofstra. The Pride have allowed 47.8% shooting in their games this season while the Titans have allowed only 36.1% from the field! Cal State Fullerton took Arizona State to double OT in their first game this season and also is battle-tested after games against Wake Forest and Central Florida in the just-completed Myrtle Beach tourney. The Pride have been a covering machine this season (4-0 ATS thus far) but I have not been impressed with their play on the defensive end thus far and that will prove to be their undoing here. As a home favorite of 3.5 to 6 points, the Pride are on a 16-27 ATS run. Hofstra also is on an ugly 4-12 ATS run in home games with a posted total between 145 and 149.5 points. I am expecting an upset here but will gladly grab the points. 10* CAL STATE FULLERTON |
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11-20-18 | Northern Illinois v. Western Michigan +6 | Top | 21-28 | Win | 100 | 11 h 28 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #102 Tuesday 10* Top Play Western Michigan Broncos (+) vs Northern Illinois Huskies @ 7 ET - The Broncos have a number of situational edges here. The Huskies already have clinched a spot in the MAC Championship Game so they really have nothing to play for there. The Broncos, though they do have 6 wins to have already clinched bowl eligibility, would certainly like to improve their bowl possibilities. Also, it is Western Michigan that is playing with revenge here as they lost last year's game by 4 points at Northern Illinois. Though the Broncos have lost 3 straight games they didn't play as bad in the two ugly losses as what the final scores from those games show. Additionally, in last week's 1 point loss to Ball State, Western Michigan actually outgained the Cardinals by about 200 yards. Also, the Huskies are averaging just 308 yards per game on the road this season and it will be tough for them to get much of a margin in this game (if they even do prevail) as, other than a big win at Akron, Northern Illinois has averaged just 16.6 points per game in their other 5 road games. The home team in this series has won 4 of the last 5 games SU in this series and the Broncos are catching about 6 points in this one. The Huskies are on a 3-7 ATS run as a favorite of 7.5 to 10 points. This is an "ugly home dog" play but this is the kind of late season situation that gets the cash more often than not. I expect an upset with the Broncos but will grab the extra insurance with the generous points being offered. 10* WESTERN MICHIGAN |
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11-20-18 | Bradley +3 v. SMU | Top | 75-62 | Win | 100 | 9 h 60 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #757 Tuesday 10* Top Play Bradley Braves (+) vs SMU Mustangs @ 6 ET in the Cancun Challenge - Riviera Division at Hard Rock Arena @ Riviera Maya Cancun - The Braves finally turned the corner last season in their multi-season rebuild. Now they return most of their key talent from last year and it has already been a 3-1 start to this season. Look for Bradley to stay hot here as SMU is dealing with some injury issues and the Mustangs just haven't looked as strong early this season as the Braves have. SMU is allowing 44.4% from the field this season and 39.2% from three point land. Bradley is allowing just 41.4% from the field and only 30.9% from three point land. In a neutral court game with a posted total between 130 and 134.5 points, the Braves are 7-3 ATS. The Mustangs are 19-36 ATS in neutral court games. SMU is also a long-term 28-40 ATS in November games. The early line move has been toward the Mustangs here and I am going contrarian and grabbing the value on the other side with the mid-major school, the Braves. 10* BRADLEY |
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11-18-18 | Vikings +2.5 v. Bears | Top | 20-25 | Loss | -102 | 12 h 32 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #457 Sunday 10* Top Play Minnesota Vikings (+) @ Chicago Bears @ 8:20 ET - Huge game in the NFC North and a rare situation in that the Vikings are having to look UP in the standings at the Bears! Minnesota has won 3 straight games against Chicago and the Vikings are also off their bye week. They will be "more than ready" in this opportunity to leapfrog the Bears for the top spot in the division. Even though Chicago has won 3 straight games, those victories all came against teams that not only have losing records on the season but actually each have only 3 wins on the season! The Vikings have played a tougher schedule than the Bears this season and yet have managed to hang "right there" with Chicago in the standings. Keep in mind the Vikings got an ATS win (or at worst "push") at the LA Rams earlier this season, they also beat the defending Super Bowl Champions in an outright upset AT Philly, and they also outgained the Saints by over 150 yards in their loss to New Orleans! Those are some strong performances against respectable teams and I feel we're getting great value here against a Bears team that, though improved, still has to show they can rise up in a huge game like this. Keep in mind that Chicago hasn't played a playoff game since 2010. The Vikings have played in 3 playoff games in the past 3 seasons under head coach Mike Zimmer. The reason I mention this is because this game is going to be played at a "playoff-level intensity" and the battle-tested Vikings have an edge in this type of game in my opinion. Note that head coach Zimmer has produced a 13-1 ATS record his last 14 in games against teams that are off a SU win by a double digit margin in their prior game. Also, Zimmer is 16-5 ATS when off a divisional game. The Bears are on a 5-16 ATS run when playing the 2nd of B2B home games. Last, but certainly not least, here is an interesting "kicker" to wrap this one up. Chicago is 0-12 ATS in divisional games when they are off a double digit SU win in which they also scored more than 28 points. Beautiful set-up here. 10* MINNESOTA |
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11-18-18 | Eagles +8 v. Saints | Top | 7-48 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 27 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Game #459 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Eagles (+) @ New Orleans Saints @ 4:25 ET - The Saints are on a tremendous roll and looking like the best team in the NFL. The Eagles have played this season as just a shadow of the team that, in February, staked their claim as the best team in the NFL. Now Philadelphia gets a chance to knock their replacement, New Orleans, off their pedestal. I know this is a contrarian play but it is the type of situation that has cashed for me so many times in the past, it is the reason it is worthy of big investment for me in this situation Sunday. The Saints have won 8 straight games SU and they've won 7 straight games ATS. Conversely, the Eagles have lost 4 of their last 6 games SU. Also, Philadelphia is on an ugly 2-6 ATS skid since winning and covering their opening game this season. Why then the play on the Eagles? There is still plenty of talent on this team. Ever since the ugly road loss at Tampa Bay they've played better away from Philly this season than they have at home. They lost in OT at Tennessee but crushed the Giants in New York and beat the Jaguars in London. Granted not great teams but they've not lost a road game by more than 6 points all season. Even that ugly loss to TB was decided by just 6 points. In fact, the Eagles blowout win over the Giants is the only game they've been involved in this season that was decided by more than 7 points. The point is that these are still the defending super bowl champs and they are not an easy team to blowout no matter who you are. They are a strong team in the trenches on both sides of the ball and offensive lineman Lane Johnson has been upgraded to probable for this game. The Eagles are a much better team (proven by long-term records) when Johnson is out there. This is a key to success on offense, and keep in mind, the Saints defense ranks 27th based on points allowed this season. Yes New Orleans has a fantastic offense but the Eagles defense ranks 5th based on points allowed this season. Philadelphia has a dangerous pass rush and also does a great job of stopping the run. The Saints defense is one of the worst in the league for qb sacks. New Orleans is 3-7 ATS as a home favorite in non-divisional action and they have a big divisional game with Falcons on deck. The Eagles are 4-1 ATS as a road dog. Also, under coach Doug Pederson, Philly is 5-1 ATS when off a SU loss and facing an opponent that is off a SU win by double digits. That system fits perfectly here as the Saints blasted the Bengals last week. Also, one final "kicker" here that is also in play. New Orleans is 0-7 ATS when off a SU win by double digits and facing a non-divisional opponent that has a looking record on the season! Don't be surprised if the Eagles pull off the shocker here and win this game outright to improve on the ugly 4-5 season record they have. At the very least, they should get the cover and stay inside this inflated number! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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11-17-18 | Iowa State +3 v. Texas | Top | 10-24 | Loss | -120 | 12 h 3 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #417 Saturday 10* Top Play Iowa State Cyclones (+) @ Texas Longhorns @ 8 ET - This is the classic situation where I like backing the underdog. The higher ranked team is at home and is laying (in many spots) less than a field goal. Also, the team that is ranked higher is also off a big road win. This is the type of situation where many are enticed to simply lay the small number with the home team when the reality is there is good reason the line is so low. I expect a lot of points to be scored in this game and I expect that to favor Iowa State. The Cyclones come into this game extremely confident with wins in 5 straight games and averaging 35 points per game during this winning streak. It is no coincidence that this 5-game run has come with Brock Purdy at QB. The Iowa State quarterback has been red hot and I look for him to take advantage of a struggling UT defense today. The Longhorns are banged up in the secondary and, since their bye week on October 20th, the Horns have had to play 3 straight tough offenses. This wears a defense down as Texas has tried to stop Oklahoma State, West Virginia and Texas Tech the past 3 weeks. The Longhorns, though the beat the Red Raiders last week, certainly have struggled to get stops! Texas has allowed 38 points per game their last 3 games and over 500 yards of offense in 4 of their last 5 games including each of these last 3. The Horns are beat up and road-weary as this will be just their 3rd home game since blasting TCU nearly two months ago! Iowa State has lost both match-ups with Texas since Matt Campbell took over as head coach. This game today has "payback" written all over it as the Cyclones are surging! The Longhorns, though they won in this role last week, are still an ugly 2-11 ATS when they are off a game in which they scored more than 35 points and are now facing a team playing with revenge. Like I said, UT got the job done in that role last week but this is rare for them and, this week, Iowa State gets their revenge! The Cyclones are on a 13-3 ATS run in games against teams with a winning record under coach Campbell and they get the job done again here. 10* IOWA STATE |
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11-16-18 | Jazz v. 76ers -3 | Top | 107-113 | Win | 100 | 11 h 53 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #706 Friday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Utah Jazz @ 7:05 ET - Both teams are looking to bounce back but the Jazz are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Utah is off an unbelievable 118-68 loss at Dallas. Though they are hungry to get back on track after that, the Jazz now visit Philly where the 76ers are also in bounce back mode. Philadelphia just dropped Jimmy Butler's debut game at Orlando Wednesday despite having a double digit lead heading into the 4th quarter! Now Butler makes his home debut for the Sixers. Not only is Philly 7-0 SU at home this season, they're going to take advantage of a Jazz team that has struggled to score on the road in 3 straight games! In Utah's last 3 road games they are averaging just 84 points per game and they've been held to 37% shooting from the field. The 76ers are averaging 118 points per game at home this season! In other words, there is a significant home/road dichotomy factor in looking at these two teams. Though the Jazz will be looking to get back on track they are actually 12-20 ATS when off an upset loss as a favorite. Also, Philly is a long-term 40-22 ATS in non-conference games and the Sixers are a long-term 60-33 ATS in home games! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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11-16-18 | St. John's v. Rutgers +3 | Top | 84-65 | Loss | -104 | 10 h 48 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #730 Friday 10* Top Play Rutgers Scarlet Knights (+) vs St John's Red Storm @ 7 ET - The Red Storm are getting a lot of love from the betting markets early this morning and that doesn't come as a big surprise considering they've enjoyed long-term success against the Scarlet Knights and that includes games at Rutgers. Of course this little push by the markets has resulted in even more line value here with the home dog Scarlet Knights. The key here is that Rutgers has started the season really hot with their shooting and they get this game at home. St John's and the Scarlet Knights have played roughly equal teams so far in terms of strength of schedule so certainly one should not discount what Rutgers has done early this season. They are off to a red hot start with their shooting including from three point land. The Scarlet Knights also have a big edge in terms of size in this match-up. Rebounding deficits have been a recurring them for the Red Storm in recent seasons and that is likely to continue to be an issue in this match-up. Plus the aggressive Knights (added some talented scorers coming into this season) can attack the rim easier when there are not big guys down there. The size issue for St John's has been exasperated even more because they were counting on 6'9 250 Sedee Keita for key minutes in the rotation but he is now out with a knee injury. The Red Storm are 10-25 ATS in Friday games long-term and are 7-12 ATS in recent seasons when off a game where they scored 80 points or more. The Scarlet Knights are 6-1 ATS when off a game where they scored 80 points or more plus they are 10-2 ATS in non-conference games. I like the hot home team with the bigger bodies and with the extra line value. 10* RUTGERS |
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11-15-18 | Packers +3 v. Seahawks | Top | 24-27 | Push | 0 | 32 h 13 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #307 Thursday 10* Top Play Green Bay Packers (+) @ Seattle Seahawks @ 8:20 ET - Seattle has home field edge here but, really, what else do they have? That is my point in looking at the Seahawks this season. Yes, they burned me last week as they stayed inside the big number at LA against the Rams. However, Seattle is still one of the worst teams in the league in terms of sack percentage allowed while Green Bay ranks roughly in the middle. Also, the Seahawks sack percentage on defense is strong but the Packers are even stronger. I will also take Aaron Rodgers over Russell Wilson any day of the week as my QB. I respect Wilson but the point is Seattle plays in a very weak NFC West because it only has the Rams as the Cardinals and 49ers struggles continue. Conversely, the Packers are annually dealing with the Vikings and now the Bears have risen up from the depths of mediocrity. Statistically, in terms of yardage allowed, these two defenses are very similar. Offense is where the edge goes to the Packers are they are averaging nearly 100 yards more through the air than the Seahawks are this season. I realize Seattle put up some big numbers last week on offense but they did take advantage of catching the Rams off that tough game with the Saints (LA still nearly covered anyway). The Seahawks last 3 wins have come against 3 teams that have a combined record of 6-18 SU on the season. I know the Packers haven't been world-beaters either but I like the fact they were absolutely "in the game" in their losses to the Rams and Patriots and their loss to Detroit was despite the Packers outgaining the Lions by 257 yards! I know they are NOT (and it is in black and white what matters most) but Green Bay could easily be 6-0 their last 6 games. With Rodgers at the helm they are always a threat and the Packers, ever since the lost to the Seahawks twice in 2014 (reg ssn and P/O) have dominated Seattle since. GB is 3-0 with the 3 victories over Seattle coming by a combined score of 82-36. The Packers are 6-3 ATS their last 9 played in weeks 10 through 13. This is their time of year for their annual playoff push! The last 26 times Seattle has been a favorite they have covered just 10 times! 10* GREEN BAY |
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11-14-18 | 76ers -5.5 v. Magic | Top | 106-111 | Loss | -112 | 10 h 16 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Orlando Magic @ 7:05 ET - Jimmy Butler's first game with the 76ers. The fact it is on the road is even better as it is keeping this line at a reasonable number. I look for Philly to win this game in blowout fashion. The Sixers now have a "Big 3" with Butler joining Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. This team is poised to be a force in the East to be reckoned with and Butler is likely to "go off" tonight and have a massive performance as he is thrilled to finally be out of Minnesota. The Magic should provide the perfect "punching bag" as Orlando. Entering Wednesday, the Magic are just 5-8 SU in their last 13 games. Orlando has just 3 ATS wins in its last 10 games. The Magic are 11-23 ATS when off a divisional game. Orlando is also a horrible 32-56 ATS in home games including 2-6 ATS this season. The 76ers are 25-13 ATS when off an upset win as an underdog and also 28-13 ATS in games with a posted total of 220 points or more. Offensively the Sixers are averaging nearly 10 points more per game than Orlando. Defensively Philly is allowing just 43% from the field while the Magic are allowing 46% from the field. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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11-14-18 | Buffalo +2.5 v. Ohio | Top | 17-52 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 27 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #303 Wednesday 10* Top Play Buffalo Bulls (+) @ Ohio University Bobcats @ 7 ET - This line has gone from a pick'em to Ohio becoming nearly a field goal favorite in this one. In typical contrarian fashion I am fading the line move here and, as always, it is certainly not without reason! This Buffalo team is on a mission. Bulls head coach Lance Leipold is in his 4th year at Buffalo and the Bulls have yet to reach the post-season. Keep in mind this is the same Leipold who won FIVE Division III national championships at Wisconsin-Whitewater. That said, it is no surprise to me that Buffalo is having their best season yet under Leipold. That fact is that even if the Bulls lose this game they can still clinch the MAC East even if Ohio wins again next week. Buffalo could do that by virtue of defeating a bad Bowling Green team next week. However, the Bulls don't want to go that route. They want to clinch this right here right now on the Bobcats own field. Keep in mind Buffalo, under Leipold, has won both home match-ups with the Bobcats but they lost the lone meeting at Ohio University by 24 points in 2016. They must have been dominated, right? Actually the Bulls outgained Ohio in that game but were done in by turnovers. Buffalo atones for that road loss with a road win here. The Bulls are 6-0 ATS in MAC games this season and 4-0 ATS in road games on the year. They are also the healthier team entering this match-up. Buffalo also has an extra day of rest compared to Ohio heading into this one. The Bulls are 6-1 ATS when off a game against Kent State. Also, though some would argue these teams schedules are roughly equal this season in terms of strength, the numbers tell a different story. For the 2nd straight year the Bobcats schedule included just 2 teams that had a winning record last season. As for the Bulls, their schedule included 5 teams that had a winning record last season. I like having the points here as the Bulls "mission" under Leipold continues! 10* BUFFALO |
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11-14-18 | Michigan +7.5 v. Villanova | Top | 73-46 | Win | 100 | 8 h 4 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CBB Game #723 Wednesday 10* Top Play Michigan Wolverines (+) @ Villanova Wildcats @ 6:30 ET - This a rematch of last year's national championship game. The Wildcats defeated the Wolverines handily by 17 points. However, just how solid was that victory really? Certainly some credit is owed to the Villanova defense for it but the fact that Michigan only made 3 of 23 three pointers certainly had something to do with it too. The Wildcats outscored the Wolverines by 21 points from 3-point land as the Cats made 10 three points in the game! The point is that the game could have gone either way were it not for the disparity from beyond the arc. Now, this season, each of the teams are a little younger and less experienced but one could argue that Villanova lost more from their roster than did Michigan. I have plenty of respect for coach Jay Wright and his Wildcats but the Wolverines are led by a great coach of their own in John Beilein. Michigan, and Beilein, have had their sites set on this rematch. So much so in fact that they were down big at the half against Holy Cross in their most recent game. Of course the Wolverines responded and blew out the Crusaders in the second half but, the point is, this game has been circled in red ever since the schedules come out. Perhaps the Wolverines do fall short here but, if they do I expect the loss to be by only a bucket or two. Great value with the big dog here and Michigan is 12-6 ATS their last 18 as an underdog. I'll grab the generous points being offered. 10* MICHIGAN |
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11-13-18 | Hornets v. Cavs +7 | Top | 89-113 | Win | 100 | 11 h 21 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #502 Tuesday 10* Top Play Cleveland Cavaliers (+) vs Charlotte Hornets @ 7:05 ET - Of course the Cavs 1-11 SU record on the season makes them look very uninviting to the betting markets. The result is line value in a situation like this because they have been a different team since the coaching change. The Cavaliers last 3 losses have come by an average margin of defeat of only 4 points. Cleveland has been playing better on the defensive end and has allowed an average of just 99 points per game in their last 3 losses. The Hornets are in a tough scheduling spot as they are off a big win at Detroit and have a big revenge game with the 76ers on deck. Charlotte just recently lost to Philly by a single point and can't help but be anticipating the big match-up with newly acquired Jimmy Butler and the Sixers. The Hornets are also having to deal with a revenge-minded Cavs team here. Cleveland trailed Charlotte by just 7 points at the half in their meeting earlier this month but then got blown out by 32 by the time the final horn sounded. Time for some payback here and the Cavaliers improve to 3-0 ATS this season when playing with revenge. 10* CLEVELAND |
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11-11-18 | Seahawks v. Rams -9 | Top | 31-36 | Loss | -114 | 19 h 19 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #272 Sunday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Rams (-) vs Seattle Seahawks @ 4:25 ET - Surprisingly the early indication on this one, prior to gameday, is that the Seahawks are the popular choice. Of course it makes sense as many remember that Seattle lost by just two points in the prior meeting this season plus many are feeling the Rams will suffer "unbeaten letdown" after their undefeated start to the season ended last week in New Orleans. Ladies and gentlemen, that game against the Saints was a hard-fought battle and Los Angeles has nothing to hang their heads about in regards to that defeat. In other words, look for the Rams to come out blazing hot here looking to atone for that defeat and there is no way the Seahawks can match them score for score. That is why I am very willing to lay a sizable number here as this game has rout written all over it. Some are even mentioning that the Rams have the trip to Mexico City on deck against the Chiefs, one of the AFC's best. The fact is that a non-conference match-up, no matter where it is played, does not take precedence over a divisional match-up! Also, this is especially true this time around because the Seahawks beat the Rams in their last visit to LA! The Seahawks are on a 3-8 ATS run in games played on grass. The Rams are 7-0 SU and 4-2-1 ATS in games played on grass this season. Los Angeles has the much stronger passing attack in this match-up and, off a loss, they won't take their foot off the gas in this match-up. The Seahawks are averaging just 23 points per game this season. The Rams have scored at least 33 points in 7 of their 9 games. I like my odds for a double digit cover in this one! 10* LOS ANGELES RAMS |
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11-10-18 | Clemson v. Boston College +20 | Top | 27-7 | Push | 0 | 28 h 1 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CFB Game #122 Saturday 10* Top Play Boston College Eagles (+) vs Clemson Tigers @ 8 ET - I have a ton of respect for Clemson. The Tigers are a tremendous football team. However, they have enjoyed a string of blowout wins now that has resulted in an inflated line in a situation that truly is likely to be one of their toughest games, from a situational standpoint, of this season. A night game in mid-November at Boston College means temperatures likely starting out in the upper 30s and possibly falling to near freezing as well as some extra wind chill with some pretty stiff winds blowing through Chestnut Hill as well. The point is that this is certainly not typical weather for Clemson to deal with. Now certainly this doesn't stop Clemson dead in their tracks. They're very talented, very fast, and very skilled. The point is that the Tigers will score some points. But for them to go to Boston College and blast the Eagles by a 3 touchdown margin is something I don't see happening. The Eagles have a solid defense that has also shown a lot of "bend but don't break" this season. BC is allowing just 20.8 points per game their last 4 games. Also, the Eagles are solid in the trenches on both sides of the ball. This includes an offensive line that returned all 5 starters from last season and is loaded with experience. The Eagles have averaged over 500 yards of offense per game at home this season. Granted the Clemson defense is tough so there will be many challenges in this game for the BC offense but they have the veterans and the physicality to get some push against this tough Tigers defense. Boston College is 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games against teams with a winning record and that includes 3-0 ATS this season. Long-term the Eagles are 3-1 ATS as a home dog in a range of 17.5 to 21 points. They lost all 4 of those games SU but the point is they covered all but 1 and I love the value here on a cold night at Chestnut Hill with a very physical team capable of winning battles in the trenches. Grab the big points! 10* BOSTON COLLEGE |
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11-09-18 | Indiana State v. Green Bay | Top | 78-74 | Win | 100 | 7 h 4 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CBB Game #517 Friday 10* Top Play Indiana State Sycamores (pick'em) @ Wisconsin-Green Bay Phoenix @ 4:30 ET - UWGB is attracting some betting attention here because they are off a blowout win in their season opener while the Sycamores are off a blowout loss in their season opener. However, there is much more than meets the eye at first glance in terms of this match-up. First off, the Phoenix took advantage of playing a Division III school as they crushed Wisconsin-Lutheran to open up the season. Secondly, Indiana State played a Ball State team that is expected to be on of the top teams in the MAC. The Sycamores, even though they were on the road for that game too, were tied at the half with the Cardinals and also were down by just 7 at about the mid-way point of the 2nd half. After a disappointing effort on defense in the 2nd half of that game, the Sycamores are hell-bent on rectifying the situation here. Also, Indiana State was at a size disadvantage at Ball State but now it is the Sycamores whom will have the size edge in this match-up with UWGB. Also, this is game is an early start Friday due to a conflict with the Volleyball schedule for the Phoenix and so the game goes at 3:30 ET. A day game on campus isn't going to help the atmosphere here for UWGB either. With the Sycamores not playing again until the 14th, they are highly motivated to atone for their poor 2nd half performance at Ball State. The Phoenix are 2-6 ATS in Friday games and I look for the Sycamores to improve to 3-0 ATS in games with a posted total in the 150s in recent seasons. 10* INDIANA STATE |
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11-08-18 | Panthers v. Steelers -3.5 | Top | 21-52 | Win | 100 | 26 h 31 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #108 Thursday 10* Top Play Pittsburgh Steelers (-) vs Carolina Panthers @ 8:20 ET - Everyone is looking to fade the Steelers here because they're off the big game against the Ravens. However, when they faced Baltimore earlier this season they then blasted an NFC South foe in their very next games as Pittsburgh crushed the Falcons 41-17. In fact it was that very game that began the current run for the Steelers and they've never looked back. Very quietly this team has made tremendous progress on defense but many are not taking notice. Pittsburgh has allowed just 18 points per game their last 4 games and the yardage allowed is even more impressive. The Steelers have given up only 276 yards per game in their last 4 games, all wins! Those who like historical data will like the fact that Pittsburgh is 6-0 ATS in its last 6 games versus the Panthers. Overall, the Steelers have excelled against the NFC with a 10-5 ATS in their last 15. Carolina is 2-7 ATS long-term in Thursday games including 0-3 ATS in recent seasons. The Panthers road games this season saw them lose at Atlanta and at Washington. The only road win they had was at Philly and, though they certainly deserve some credit for the comeback, the Eagles certainly "helped" Carolina rally late from a 17-0 deficit. The point is that the markets are giving a little too much credit to the Panthers right now in my opinion and not enough to a Steelers team that is really starting to put it together on defense plus has the home field edge here. The Panthers are off 3 straight wins but they aren't known for rattling off long winning streaks. Prior to last week's win and cover Carolina was 3-7 SU and 2-8 ATS when entering a game on a winning streak of 2 or more games. The Steelers have the better passing attack offensively and, in terms of pass defense, the Panthers have allowed an average of 285 passing yards in 6 of their 7 last games (they had one exceptional game against the Redskins in this stretch). The Steelers have allowed just 192 passing yards per game their last 3 games. I respect the Panthers but this is the only home game for Pittsburgh between late October and early December and they're ready to make the most of it. 10* PITTSBURGH |
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11-07-18 | 76ers +2.5 v. Pacers | Top | 100-94 | Win | 102 | 10 h 36 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #513 Wednesday 10* Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Indiana Pacers @ 8:05 ET - The 76ers are off an embarrassing loss at Brooklyn where Philly turned the ball over 27 times compared to just 9 for the Nets! Philadelphia has had two days off since then and can't wait to get back on the floor and atone for that performance. As for the Pacers, though they've been winning more regularly than the Sixers have of late, they are having shooting issues. Indiana has struggled at the free throw line this season and they've also made just 42% of their shots from the field in their last 3 home games! The Pacers are 0-3-1 ATS this season when off a home game. Also, Indiana is an ugly 1-4 ATS in games against teams that average 106 points or more per game. The 76ers are a long-term 49-26 ATS in games against teams that average 106 points or more per game. Also, Philadelphia is 3-1 SU when off a loss this season. The public and betting markets are likely to back the Pacers here since the Sixers still have not won a road game this season. I am fading the masses, as per usual, because Philly got demolished by the Nets in their most recent game. As a result, they are incredibly focused for this game and the finally get a road win on the board. Now, though I do expect an outright upset, I am grabbing the available points here as the Pacers are only 3-2 SU in their last 5 games and 2 of those SU wins came by 2 points or less. In other words, getting 2.5 points or more here could prove to be very valuable. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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11-06-18 | Kent State +22.5 v. Buffalo | Top | 14-48 | Loss | -109 | 34 h 36 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #101 Tuesday 10* Top Play Kent State Golden Flashes (+) @ Buffalo Bulls @ 7:30 ET - When you are a huge underdog, you welcome all the help that you can get from Mother Nature. In this case, this game at Buffalo is offering plenty of help based on the weather forecast. The Bulls, as you would expect for a MAC team, play in a rather small home venue. That means that when the winds are whipping through there it can create havoc for the passing and kicking game. Winds are expected to be in the 25 to 35 mph range on Tuesday night in Amherst in the Buffalo area. I love the big dog in a spot like this catching more than 3 TDs. The Golden Flashes have been playing a little better in recent weeks. One of their biggest weaknesses on the season is pass defense but, again, based on the strong winds forecast for Tuesday night, Buffalo is likely to keep the ball on the ground a lot. In comparing these two teams, they are nearly equal in terms of the ground game both on offense and defense. The big edge the Bulls would have is the passing game but, again, that is going to be at least somewhat (if not significantly) impacted by the weather in this one. The Golden Flashes have played better in recent weeks even though they've had a road-heavy schedule (they finish the season with two home games). Kent State is only 1-3 SU their last 4 games but two of those three losses came by just a single point. Another key here is that Buffalo is in a sandwich spot. The two teams closest to the Bulls in the MAC East standings are Miami-Ohio and Ohio U. With Buffalo off a key win over the Redhawks last Tuesday and having a huge game on deck with the Bobcats next Wednesday, this is a "tricky" scheduling spot for the Bulls. The Golden Flashes are playing hard for head coach Sean Lewis. At the age of 31 he is the youngest head coach in the nation and has brought a lot of positive energy to the program and they are heading in the right direction despite their unimpressive W-L record. Another key to the value here is that Bulls linebacker (2nd in the NATION in tackles last season) Khalil Hodge is out for the 1st half of this game due to a targeting suspension. Look for the Golden Flashes to keep this game much closer than many are expecting. 10* KENT STATE |
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11-04-18 | Rams v. Saints +2.5 | Top | 35-45 | Win | 100 | 20 h 57 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #470 Sunday 10* Top Play New Orleans Saints (+) vs Los Angeles Rams @ 4:25 ET - When an 8-0 team opens up at nearly a pick'em line it is not a mistake. However, the markets usually jump all over these types of situations and, sure enough, that is precisely what happened here. LA has gone from roughly a pick to a -2.5 as of Saturday night and I love the value we're getting here with the Saints. How many teams go undefeated in an NFL season? It is RARE as you know and, the point is, even though this is only the half-way point of the season, you know a loss is likely coming for LA sooner rather than later and this look likes the perfect spot for it! The Saints are on a roll and I know they were out-gained significantly by the Vikings last week but, the point is, New Orleans continues to find a way to win and their confidence is sky-high and they are at home for this one! A lot of factors going in their favor here. Also, for a FIFTH straight week, the Rams are playing in a different city. Seattle has gone from Seattle to San Francisco to Denver to home in Los Angeles and now right back on the road again at New Orleans. The Saints are on a 6-0 SU run and 5-0 ATS run so they are the ideal team to step up and knock off the Rams here on Sunday. Also, New Orleans is 6-2 ATS their last 8 as a home dog. The Saints have a long-term reputation for stepping up in games against winning teams. Not only did they knock off the Vikings last week but also the Redskins early this season. In fact New Orleans entered this season 12-1 ATS in games against NFC foes with a winning percentage greater than 66.6% and I look for another cover here as I do expect the upset win but definitely will grab the points for insurance. With last week's win and cover against a Vikings team that was on a winning streak, the Saints are now 14-3 ATS under head coach Sean Payton when they're on a SU winning streak of 2 or more games and also facing an opponent on a winning streak of 2 or more games. Keep in mind, though the Rams are 8-0 SU on the season they've covered just once in their last 5 games. Great home dog value with the Saints in this one. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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11-03-18 | Notre Dame v. Northwestern +10.5 | Top | 31-21 | Win | 100 | 29 h 38 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #356 Saturday 10* Top Play Northwestern Wildcats (+) vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ 7:15 ET - The Fighting Irish are 8-0 SU on the season but are 3-4 ATS their last 7 and truly are over-priced here. Notre Dame is known for sliding at this point in the season and this certainly could be "upset week" for them as they are just 3-5 SU (and 1-7 ATS!) the past two Novembers. Conversely, the Wildcats are in their most relished role. As an underdog, Northwestern is now 10-3 ATS their last 13 and that includes 4-0 this season! 3 of the 4 this season were outright upset wins! The Wildcats are also a long-term 11-3 ATS as home dog of 7.5 to 10 points and 9 of those 11 wins were outright upsets! Northwestern also is known for staying hot once they get hot! The Cats enter this game having won 4 straight and they are 9-1 SU and (8-2 ATS!) their last 10 when they enter a game on a SU winning streak of 2 or more games. Ever since losing RB Jeremy Larkin for the season (career ended) this Wildcats team has bonded tremendously. They lost (but covered) their first game without him in a hard-fought 3-point loss to mighty Michigan and they've since won 4 straight games! Of course there will be plenty of Notre Dame fans here but certainly it still is not the same as the Wildcats having to face the Fighting Irish in South Bend. That said, I also like the fact that we've got some more technical data supporting this play. ND is 3-10 ATS the game after facing Navy. Notre Dame is also just 1-5 ATS when on the road after scoring more than 35 points and now facing a team that is playing with revenge. The Irish are also on an 0-5 ATS run as a favorite of more than 6 points against a Big Ten team! 10* NORTHWESTERN |
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11-02-18 | Pittsburgh +7.5 v. Virginia | Top | 23-13 | Win | 100 | 12 h 38 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CFB Game #315 Friday 10* Top Play Pittsburgh Panthers (+) @ Virginia Cavaliers @ 7:30 ET - Yes, Virginia has been red hot and many are looking to ride the Cavaliers here. This is especially true as Pittsburgh, despite an ultra-impressive performance on offense (and a win), gave up a ton of yardage last week. The facts that matter the most here are the Panthers are a very physical football team and while I greatly respect Cavs coach Bronco Mendenhall, he and the Cavaliers have lost to Pitt in each of his first two seasons. Coming into this season Virginia was pegged by most prognosticators to finish dead last in the Coastal Division of the ACC. Now both the Cavs and the Panthers have just 1 ACC loss heading into this battle. The Cavaliers are also ranked! However, I fully believe this is a case of a little too much too respect too soon for the Cavaliers. I am calling for the upset here but, of course, I am grabbing the points. Currently this line is at 7.5 as of early gameday morning and that is a great value. The Cavs, for all their accolades, actually have only averaged 346 yards per game their last 4 games. The Panthers, on the other hand, have averaged 479 yards of offense per game in their last 3 ACC games! Pitt is loaded with confidence after their huge performance at Duke and they also have confidence at Virginia due to recent success in this match-up. Under head coach Pat Narduzzi, the Panthers have gone 11-6 ATS in their last 17 as a road dog. Virginia is on a 2-6 ATS run in November games and is a long-term 4-7 ATS as a home favorite in a range of 7.5 to 10 points. The Panthers are 10-3 ATS their last 13 games against teams with a winning record and get the job done again here. 10* PITTSBURGH |
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10-31-18 | Ball State v. Toledo -18 | Top | 13-45 | Win | 100 | 11 h 8 m | Show |
All Treat No Trick Best Bet - Rickenbach CFB Game #306 Wednesday 10* Top Play Toledo Rockets (-) vs Ball State Cardinals @ 7:30 ET - Ball State has been ravaged with injuries and now they are forced to go with Drew Plitt at QB because Riley Neal has been downgraded to out for this game. The Cardinals also have injury issues at RB and WR. Not only that, the Cards have been hurt by injuries on the offensive line and on defense too. All the way around this is not a good spot for Ball State. As for Toledo, QB Mitchell Guadagni left the Rockets most recent game with a shoulder injury. However, even if he did not play in tonight's game, back-up QB Eli Peters has played plenty this season (including last week) and he has played well. Peters plays with confidence too and, at home, versus an over-matched Cardinals team, the Rockets can essentially "name the score" in this one. I look for them to get a huge lead and then, though they will be in a certain respect "coasting to victory" I still them piling up points. Even when Toledo turns to their ground game to grind out clock, they are likely to break off big runs. The Rockets have run for 229 yards or more in 3 of their last 4 games. The Cards defense has allowed 227 yards or more in 3 of their last 4 games and that includes 411 rushing yards in their most recent game. Though I generally don't lay big numbers, this is a rare case where everything does point to a blowout and Ball State, without their top QB (and other skill position guys) just doesn't have a lot of "backdoor cover" potential here. Look for the Cardinals to drop to 2-10 (SU and ATS) in October games! Note that the Rockets are 10-0 / 100% PERFECT ATS when they are a home favorite of more than 8 points and coming off a win that was by a double digit margin both SU and ATS. That system fits here as they blasted Western Michigan last week by 27 points as an underdog! There is another perfect system here too as Ball State is 0-9 ATS when they are playing with revenge against a team that is off a SU win by a double digit margin in their prior game. That means this spot is a combined 19-0 / 100% PERFECT! Lay the points! 10* TOLEDO |
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10-30-18 | Miami-OH v. Buffalo -7 | Top | 42-51 | Win | 100 | 35 h 32 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #302 Tuesday CFB 10* Buffalo Bulls (-) vs Miami-OH Redhawks @ 8 ET - First off, lets talk about the current injury report here. The Bulls have no one listed while the 3 guys for the Redhawks all quite important and all 3 are seniors. Of course WR James Gardner has been out since earlier this season but that was a crushing blow as he was the leader of the receiving group. The other two players are on defense and are both listed as questionable for this week. Liinebacker Junior McMullen is the middle linebacker and certainly a crucial piece of the LB corps. The defensive back is Deondre Daniels and he was the top returning cornerback. Now even without all this I still love Buffalo here. They had won 4 straight in this series but now have lost back to back games to Miami-Ohio (Bulls were down to 3rd string QB in last year's meeting). So this is a double-revenge situation and Buffalo is at home and they are laying a TD. Good value here. The Bulls are 7-1 this season and Miami-OH is just 3-5. Granted the Redhawks have played better since MAC play began but the Bulls have been playing even better (on both sides of the ball) and have the home field edge and high motivation factor here. In terms of technical support, the Redhawks are on a 1-3 ATS run in Tuesday games while the Bulls are on a 6-3 ATS run in Tuesday games. Buffalo is also 4-1 ATS as a favorite in a range of 3.5 to 10 points and 6-1 ATS when they enter a game on a winning streak of 2 or more games. Also, the Bulls are 8-1 ATS when they are off B2B SU wins and facing an opponent off a SU loss. Buffalo is also 7-1 ATS when they are a home favorite of more than 2 points and are playing with revenge! 10* BUFFALO |
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10-30-18 | 76ers +6.5 v. Raptors | Top | 112-129 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #509 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Toronto Raptors @ 7:35 ET - Kawhi Leonard sat for the Raptors last night (just for rest) but that is no excuse for getting blown out at Milwaukee as the Bucks were without their star player as well as Giannis Antetokounmpo did end up going in concussion protocol. Also, the Sixers Joel Embiid did play in Philly's first back to back this season and I expect he will do so again here after Philadelphia blew out the Hawks in the 2nd half last night and they were able to rest starters in the 4th quarter. Embiid clearly was "saving up" for this game as he had his lowest point total and rebound total of the season in last night's game. Milwaukee, Toronto, Detroit, and Boston are the top 4 teams in the NBA East right now based on records. Why do I bring that up? Because the Sixers have already lost to Boston, Detroit (in OT thriller), and the Bucks. Philadelphia has this game at Toronto circled in blood as a result! The 76ers know they need to prove they can be a quality team in the East as so far they have looked like the weakest of all the aforementioned teams and Philly is supposed to be a legit contender in the East this season. With Ben Simmons playing very well, Markelle Fultz off a strong game, and Embiid having (in my opinion) saved up for this one, I am expecting a Sixers upset tonight but certainly like the value with the points. By the way, Raptors only had 2 players score 11 points or more last night while the 76ers had 6 players score at least 11 points last night. Balanced scoring certainly is an important factor and Philly was all over the boards last night too. They are hungry and in need of a statement win. The Raptors are on an 8-18 ATS run in Tuesday games while the Sixers are on a 13-7 ATS run in Tuesday games. Also, the 76'ers are 46-24 ATS their last 70 games versus teams that score an average of 106 points or more per game. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-29-18 | Patriots v. Bills +14.5 | Top | 25-6 | Loss | -115 | 12 h 23 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #276 Monday 10* Top Play Buffalo Bills (+) vs New England Patriots @ 8:15 ET - This one falls under the old "ugly home dog" theory but it fits well. The team nobody wants, Buffalo, is at home in a divisional game and down to their 2nd string quarterback, and they're hosting the almighty Patriots - a public team that people love to bet. You can see where I am going with this as, in typical contrarian fashion, I am backing the unpopular team. Of course this is not without good reason. For one thing, I fully expect the Bills to get a much better game from back-up QB Derek Anderson as he now makes his 2nd start. Additionally, Buffalo's defense has played much better than many realize. Looking at their points allowed this season (25 per game and similar to Patriots) you'd probably be surprised to hear that the Bills defense is allowing only 321 yards per game while the Pats are allowing 390 yards per game. Of course the Patriots are the much better offense but I love the fact we're getting the Bills plus two touchdowns now as a divisional home dog in their only primetime game of the season and they are at home. Having a rough start to the season, this a rare chance for Buffalo to truly shine with the ESPN cameras rolling and facing Tom Brady and Co. You know the Bills are going to bring a huge effort here and are highly motivated. The Bills are 10-0 ATS when they are off B2B SU losses and facing a team with a winning record. Remember that game at Minnesota this season? The Vikings were 1-0-1 at the time and the Bills were off B2B SU losses. That was the 10th straight ATS win for Buffalo in this situation and I look it go to 11-0 ATS tonight as the Bills keep this one much closer than many are expecting. By the way, in addition to the 10-0 ATS factor tonight, there are two other perfect ones worth noting! The Patriots are 0-6 ATS as divisional road favorite of more than 8 points. Also, NE head coach Bill Belichick is 0-7 ATS in road games versus a divisional opponent when that divisional foe is off a double digit loss and playing with revenge. Of course that system fits perfectly here as Buffalo got blasted by 32 at Indianapolis last week and have revenge against the Pats as they got swept by them last season. Combined edges above are 23-0 / 100% for the ugly road dog! Grab the points. 10* BUFFALO |
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10-27-18 | BC +4.5 v. Saskatchewan | Top | 16-35 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 38 m | Show |
CFL Game of the Month - Rickenbach CFL Game #663 Saturday 10* Top Play BC Lions (+) @ Saskatchewan Roughriders @ 7 ET - Saskatchewan is known for being a tough place to play for the visitors. However, there is also a lot of pressure on the Roughriders here. Both BC and the Riders are in the playoffs already. However, while the Lions are able to play loose here because they've clinched a spot and are unlikely to change their playoff positioning in any greatly significant manner, the situation for Saskatchewan is much different. This is the Roughriders final game of the season and, with a win, they have a shot at the West Division title! If Calgary would lose at BC (ironically) next week than the Riders would win the division. Again, that is IF the Roughriders can win tonight in what is their final game of the season. That said, the Lions are playing their best football of the season and I love the value we're getting with them here as a sizable dog. BC has won 6 of its last 7 games SU and is also on a 5-2 ATS run. The Riders, conversely, enter this game on a 2-4 ATS run. Also, the Lions are 7-2 SU (and ATS) in their last 9 games with the Roughriders. In meetings at Saskatchewan, the Lions are 5-1 ATS the last 6. This should be a close battle all the way through and the loose and more relaxed team truly makes for a dangerous dog. All the pressure on Saskatchewan here, give me the confident road dog that also has a rest edge of an additional day. The Lions are 4-0 ATS in games against teams with a winning record and the Riders are 2-6 ATS their last 8 as a favorite in a range of 3.5 to 9.5 points. 10* BC LIONS |
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10-27-18 | Washington v. California +12.5 | Top | 10-12 | Win | 100 | 22 h 57 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CFB Game #166 Saturday 10* Top Play California Golden Bears (+) vs Washington Huskies @ 6:30 ET - Simply too many points here. You know California head coach Justin Wilcox (formerly a defensive coordinator at Washington in 2012-13) wants this game badly. The Huskies are having a solid season in Pac-12 action while Cal has been struggling but the Golden Bears can make a statement right here right now by getting revenge for beatdowns taken at the hands of Washington each of the past two seasons. This year's defense is much improved and I don't see the Huskies enjoying the success they have in past match-ups. Coach Wilcox is doing a great job with the D this season and California is allowing 24 points per game on average on the season and has held all but 2 of 7 opponents to 24 points or less this season. The Huskies have been held to 27 points or less in 5 of their 7 games against FBS foes this season and Washington has not scored more than 35 points against an FBS school this season. Based on Cal's improvements on D and the fact that the Huskies O has not been a powerhouse, I expect Washington to struggle just to win this game let alone cover the big spread. The Huskies only big road win (@ Utah by 14) was fueled by turnovers. Washington's other road games included a win by 7 and a loss at Oregon. Look for a tight one here as the Golden Bears struggles this season have been fueled by turnovers but they are off a game at Oregon State where they played a complete game on both sides of the ball. Look for that huge win over the Beavers to provide the confidence boost this team needed and the defense, solid, is already there. Now with the offense playing a complete game and building off last week's strong effort, the Bears are a dangerous home dog in this spot. In fact, the Golden Bears are 12-1 ATS when they are double digit dog and are coming off a SU win that was also an ATS cover. The system fits here and this is a superb value spot. 10* CALIFORNIA |
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10-26-18 | Louisiana Tech +3.5 v. Florida Atlantic | Top | 21-13 | Win | 100 | 12 h 60 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach CFB Game #131 Friday 10* Top Play Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (+) @ Florida Atlantic Owls @ 6:30 ET - The Owls, in essence, have lost their leader on each side of the ball. Florida Atlantic's LB Azeez Al-Shaair was the Defensive Player of the Year for Conference USA and he is out for the year with a torn ACL. Owls QB Chris Robison is questionable for this game with an ankle injury but he was actually benched in Florida Atlantic's 31-7 loss at Marshall last week which was also the first Owls game without Al-Shaair. The point is that even if Robison was healthy there is already confidence lost in him due to poor play. The Owls are facing a Louisiana Tech team that is hell bent on revenge here. Last season the Bulldogs got embarrassed at home 48-23 by Florida Atlantic even though Louisiana Tech outgained them 512 to 415. You read that right...the Bulldogs outgained the Owls by nearly 100 yards but lost by 25 points on the scoreboard. Indeed it is payback time tonight and, with Florida Atlantic having issues with arguably the most important player on each side of the ball, this one should be a road rout for Louisiana Tech and I am happy to grab the points. The Bulldogs are 5-1 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points and also 7-1 ATS when they enter a game on a winning streak of 2 or more games. The Owls are 2-5 ATS in home games with a posted total between 56.5 and 63 points and Florida Atlantic is also 1-8 ATS as a home favorite in a range of 3.5 to 7 points. The line has been moving toward the Owls and in true contrarian fashion I am going the other way and grabbing the Bulldogs! 10* LOUISIANA TECH |
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10-25-18 | Dolphins v. Texans -7 | Top | 23-42 | Win | 100 | 13 h 1 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #104 Thursday NFL 10* Houston Texans (-) vs Miami Dolphins @ 8:20 ET - The Dolphins are going with Brock Osweiler at QB as Ryan Tannehill is still dealing with his shoulder injury. Though Osweiler has done fairly well since stepping in, both of his starts were at home in Miami. Now he and the Dolphins are in the road and in what will be a very hostile environment for Osweiler and his teammates. Osweiler is a former Texan that had a huge contract and failed in Houston and his relationship with Texans head coach Bill O'Brien was not good to say the least. Suffice to say O'Brien and the entire Houston team are "amped up" for this game. It is a primetime weeknight game and they will make the most of it. The Texans defense is fierce including great pass rush abilities and this will force Osweiler into mistakes. Being without their two top wide receivers is also a detriment to the Dolphins offense for this one. Note that Miami is averaging a paltry 14.7 points per game on 242 yards per game on the road this season. The Texans offense is averaging 22.1 points per game on 372 yards per game this season. Houston has won 4 straight games while the Dolphins have lost 3 of their last 4 games including each of their last two road games. Miami is on a 5-9 ATS run in games against teams with a winning record and the Dolphins also are on a 3-8 ATS run as an away dog. The Texans have won 7 of the 8 meetings between these teams including all 4 at home and there is some -7 out there as of early Thursday morning. Grab it and look for a home blowout here as DeShaun Watson has a big game at QB for the Texans. Miami has allowed an average of 467 yards per game their past two games. 10* HOUSTON |
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10-25-18 | Baylor v. West Virginia -13.5 | Top | 14-58 | Win | 100 | 11 h 60 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach Game #114 Thursday 10* Top Play West Virginia Mountaineers (-) vs Baylor Bears @ 7 ET - The Bears, as a big dog here, could have used some help from mother nature to help limit the potent West Virginia offense. Had this game been Friday night instead of Thursday night they would likely get it as rain is expected. However, Thursday night is expected to have spectacular weather conditions with no rain and light winds and this angry Mountaineers teams won't hesitate to run up the score on Baylor. West Virginia is coming off their first loss of the season, a dismal loss at Iowa State two weeks ago. The Mountaineers have been fired up to get back on the field but had to wait an extra week because of their bye week. Don't be surprised if West Virginia looks like they've been shot out of a cannon when this game gets going. They are fired up and a primetime weeknight game is going to have Morgantown rocking tonight! The Bears are 3-3 this season but the 3 wins were against Abilene Christian, UTSA, and Kansas State. Every time that Baylor has faced tougher competition they've lost. The 3 losses have come by an average of 17.3 points per game and the Mountaineers 5 wins this season have come by an average margin of 22.8 points per game. In fact, all except a road win have come by at least a 16 point margin. With this line dropping down from 14 to 13.5 and, considering the highly motivated situation for the Mountaineers, I won't hesitate to go to my top play rating for this one. The Bears are 1-4 ATS in road games with a total between 63.5 and 70 points. The Mountaineers improve to 4-1 ATS in games played on turf this season. 10* WEST VIRGINIA |
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10-24-18 | Jazz +2.5 v. Rockets | Top | 100-89 | Win | 100 | 12 h 40 m | Show |
NBA Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #511 Wednesday 10* Top Play Utah Jazz (+) @ Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - This play is contrarian from the standpoint that, on the surface, it looks real easy to take the Rockets at home off a loss and lay a very small number in doing so. However, the problem with Houston right now is they have a cluster of injuries impacting them and also Chris Paul is suspended for one more game and not returning until Friday's match-up with the Clippers. Also, the Rockets are catching the Jazz at the wrong time. Not only does Utah have playoff revenge from last season, the Jazz also enter this game off back to back losses and very fired up for this game. They blew their recent game against the defending champion Warriors and then, after that debacle in the Warriors game, they clearly looked right past Memphis as they were looking ahead to this opportunity for post-season revenge. Now the day has arrived and it is time to "put up or shut up" and I expect the Jazz to "put up" here! Utah has stayed mostly static with their roster and that particularly helps them in a situation like this where the Rockets are having to mix and match pieces. Also note that the Jazz have only failed to cover 24 of their last 67 games when facing a team that allows 106 points or more per game. As for Houston, they are on a 10-18 ATS run when playing with 2 days of rest between games. 10* UTAH |
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10-23-18 | Troy -12.5 v. South Alabama | Top | 38-17 | Win | 100 | 12 h 39 m | Show |
Rare Tuesday CFB Top Play - Rickenbach CFB Game #101 Tuesday 10* Top Play Troy Trojans (-) @ South Alabama Jaguars @ 8 ET - The Trojans lost starting QB Kaleb Barker for the season (ACL) but Sawyer Smith had already had some experience this season and had performed quite well. The fact that he had some struggles in his first start, on the road at Liberty, is actually leading to some line value here. Look for Smith to perform much better after getting that road start out of the way and he has had extra time to prepare since Troy is off a bye. It certainly will help that Smith and the powerful Trojans are going up against a weak defense. The Jaguars defense ranks in the BOTTOM 20 out of all 130 teams in FBS for defensive efficiency. Overall, South Alabama has allowed 446 yards per game this season. The Jags run defense is particularly poor and the Trojans powerful ground game can take advantage. Troy is on a 6-0 ATS run in Tuesday games. The Trojans enter this game having allowed just 19.7 points per game their last 6 games. South Alabama enters this game off a rare big win and previously had allowed an average of 47 points per game in their first 6 games this season. The Jaguars are on a 5-13 ATS run in conference action and will prove to be outclassed again by the class of the conference as the Trojans get revenge for last year's loss. Last year the Jags caught Troy after their big upset of LSU. South Alabama is not so lucky this season in terms of the situational set-up and the Trojans roll big here! Lay the big points even though they are on the road. 10* TROY |
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10-23-18 | 76ers -1.5 v. Pistons | Top | 132-133 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 59 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Detroit Pistons @ 7:05 ET - Detroit is 2-0 SU but 0-2 ATS on the season. They've squeaked by Brooklyn and Chicago. Neither the Nets or Bulls are expected to post much of a threat in terms of NBA supremacy this season! The point is that the Pistons are now finally facing a strong team and Philly has some confidence back after back to back wins have followed an opening game disaster versus the Celtics. Yes, the 76ers have also faced a weak schedule since that game one loss but the fact that they've at least, unlike the Pistons, faced one quality opponent, is reason enough to believe that they've got a better shot at getting into the win column in this one. The Pistons have yet to truly be battle tested. Even though Simmons (back) is an issue for the Sixers, they played most of the last game without him which allowed for a good "test run" and they'll be even better prepared tonight after JJ Redick went off in his absence and had a huge game. Keep in mind too that Detroit big man Andre Drummond is dealing with the flu which certainly won't help the Pistons as they try to contain Joel Embiid inside! Philly won all 4 meetings last season and each win came by at least 5 points. The 76ers are on a 21-9 ATS run when playing with 2 days of rest between games and this is their first such opportunity this season. The Sixers will make the most of it! The Pistons have a divisional game on deck (Cavs) and also are off a divisional win (Bulls) and Detroit is 11-20 ATS their last 31 when off a divisional game. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-22-18 | Giants +4.5 v. Falcons | Top | 20-23 | Win | 100 | 13 h 24 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #475 Monday 10* Top Play New York Giants (+) @ Atlanta Falcons @ 8:15 ET - This line looked funny to many when it first was posted as, even though the Falcons have had a rather tough start this season, they are still at home here and Atlanta was in the Super Bowl two seasons ago and made the playoffs last season. Considering those factors as well as the fact that the Giants went 3-13 last year and have started this year 1-5, it is no wonder why Atlanta is getting plenty of love from the public in this one. Don't be fooled ladies and gentlemen as this game was priced this way for a reason and the sharp money is on the Giants. On Thursday night football the G-men were embarrassed by the division rival Eagles but their season is not over yet. Both Philly and the Cowboys lost yesterday and now have losing records on the season. The Giants have a shot at the NFC East first-place Redskins next week. In other words, New York knows that it just takes back to back wins to be right back in the thick of things in their divisional race. After getting embarrassed in the game against the Eagles last Thursday, the Giants D is undoubtedly going to bring a huge effort this week and they do have the better defense in this match-up with the Falcons. Although Atlanta has a bye on deck, they are actually just 1-5 ATS when playing the week before a bye. The Giants, when a road dog in non-divisional action, are on a 5-1 ATS run. The Giants are also on an incredible 9-0-1 ATS run when they are off a Thursday game. The Falcons are off a key win versus the Buccaneers are Atlanta is on an 0-7 ATS run after facing Tampa Bay. That means we have a combined 16-0 / 100% PERFECT edge here in favor of the road dog! 10* NEW YORK GIANTS |
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10-21-18 | Hawks +7.5 v. Cavs | Top | 133-111 | Win | 100 | 7 h 18 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Sunday 10* Top Play Atlanta Hawks (+) @ Cleveland Cavaliers @ 6:05 ET - The Cavaliers burned me on Friday night but I'll get it back here. I had the Timberwolves (-8 or -8.5) and they blew a 21-point lead and won the game by only 8 for a loss or push for my clients. Now we get a chance to fade a line move here as everyone is piling on Cleveland for their home opener. This is not a very good Cavs team. Now I am certainly not saying that the Hawks are anything special either but they are now getting a lot more points than they should be considering they are 0-2 SU just like the Cavaliers are so they will be every bit as hungry. Keep in mind they have a history of playing very well here too as they've covered each of their last 8 trips to Cleveland. Coming into this season, Atlanta's projected win total was very close to that of the Cavaliers and there is just not a huge difference right now between these two teams. I also like the fact that the Cavs have covered (to the closing line) each of their first two games but each by just half a point. Their luck runs out here as they will be doing good just to win this game let alone cover the inflated spread. The Cavaliers are on a 61-84 ATS run as a favorite. Cleveland is also 39-58 ATS in home games. Also, when off a non-conference games, the Cavs are an ugly 25-42 ATS. 10* ATLANTA |
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10-21-18 | Saints +3 v. Ravens | Top | 24-23 | Win | 100 | 19 h 41 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #469 Sunday 10* Top Play New Orleans Saints (+) @ Baltimore Ravens @ 4:05 ET - A pair of hot teams matched up here but I like the value with the road dog that also has the better offense. The Saints have won 4 straight games and also are on an 8-0 ATS run in October games. The Ravens have played well this season but are still just 3-2 SU their last 5 games and they have a knack for falling into slumps as we get closer to the mid-point of the season. Baltimore is on a 3-8 ATS run in October games. The Ravens are also 2-6 ATS in non-conference games. When the Saints enter a game on a wining streak of 2 or more SU games, they have gone 9-4 ATS. Keep in mind New Orleans just had that huge MNF performance from Drew Brees and are now off their bye week. They are rested and ready while the Ravens have expended a lot of effort the past 3 weeks as all 3 games were on the road. Baltimore has defeated the Saints each of the last 3 meetings including in the Superdome against Brees and Company in 2014. That said, this triple-revenge game goes to the hungry rested road dog. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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10-20-18 | Oregon +3 v. Washington State | Top | 20-34 | Loss | -109 | 21 h 51 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #368 Saturday 10* Top Play Oregon Ducks (+) @ Washington State Cougars @ 7:30 ET - People will shy away from Oregon here since they're off the big win at Washington last week and it was a revenge game. However, those same people may have forgotten that the Ducks are on a mission right now thanks to a healthy Justin Herbert at QB and they have big-time revenge on their minds this week because they've been beaten badly by the Cougars each of the past two seasons! Look for Oregon to roll here as the Ducks, in my opinion, have faced tougher Pac-12 match-ups than Washington State has thus far. As a result, Oregon is the more battle-tested team in this match-up and their only loss this season (to Stanford) was truly a game the Ducks never should have lost. They've showed great resilience ever since then. I also like the fact that Washington State is 6-0 ATS this season so they're falling into public favor as a result and they're getting some extra shading in this match-up they really don't deserve. The Cougars luck at the betting window runs out this week in my opinion! The Cougars are 1-3 ATS off a bye week and 5-8 ATS as a home favorite of 3 or less points. Oregon is 46-23 in games with a line between +3 and -3. The Ducks are also 16-6 ATS in a road game with posted total between 63.5 and 70 points. 10* OREGON |
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10-19-18 | Cavs v. Wolves -8 | Top | 123-131 | Push | 0 | 11 h 57 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #710 Friday 10* Top Play Minnesota Timberwolves (-) vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:05 ET - Both the Cavs and Wolves were outscored at the 3-point line in their season opening losses. The difference tonight in terms of whom bounces back in Game Two of the new season has a lot to do with the home floor. The Cavaliers are unlikely to fix their outside shooting woes here. Their problems were evident in a bit of a disjointed game at Toronto where they found themselves down 20 points. As for Minnesota's game at San Antonio, they got very little from Karl-Anthony Towns and Jimmy Butler didn't contribute a lot until he was involved with all of the Timberwolves last 14 points. So if Towns doesn't foul out, Butler carries over momentum from his late game play at SA, and the Wolves also don't get outscored by 15 points from beyond the arc then what happens? I'll tell you what happens. This game should turn into an absolute home blowout. We're getting extra line value here because the Cavs snuck in the back door for a late cover or push while the Wolves just missed covering their first game. Now this line is down from where it should be. Keep in mind the Wolves crushed the Cavs here by 28 points last year and Cleveland comes into this season projected to finish the year 20 games under .500 (sans LeBron James) while the Timberwolves are projected to be a winning team in the tougher Western Conference (per win totals from odds makers before the season). The Wolves are 9-4 ATS in home games with a posted total of 220 points or more. The Cavs are 11-33 ATS when off a loss by a double digit margin! Blowout time here. 10* MINNESOTA |
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10-18-18 | Broncos v. Cardinals +2 | Top | 45-10 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
Thursday Thrasher - Rickenbach NFL Game #302 Thursday 10* Top Play Arizona Cardinals (+) vs Denver Broncos @ 8:20 ET - The Cardinals are 12-1 ATS as a home dog of less than 7 points when playing a non-divisional opponent. Arizona is also a perfect 4-0 ATS in home games with a posted total between 38.5 and 42 points. As for the Broncos, under head coach Vance Joseph, they are 1-9 ATS in road games. Also, in games 5 through 8 of a season, Denver is 2-12 ATS when they are a favorite against a team that is off a SU loss by a double digit margin and that also is playing with revenge. That system fits the Cards perfectly here. Combining all the edges here and you have a 37-4 (90%) spot in favor of the hungry home dog here. Yes, both teams have been struggling this season but the Cardinals view this game as a rare chance to shine at home in prime-time action with all eyes of the football world watching. The Cards will be ready to go in a big way here. 10* ARIZONA |
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10-18-18 | Bulls v. 76ers -11 | Top | 108-127 | Win | 100 | 10 h 13 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #502 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Chicago Bulls @ 8:05 ET - The Sixers go from playing the best team in the Eastern Conference to now facing one of the worst. Philly also goes from playing on the road in a tough venue in Boston to playing at home for their own rowdy fans. Especially with this game being their home opener, this game has blowout written all over it after the 76ers had such a tough game from the 2nd quarter on in their opening night loss Tuesday. Philadelphia is 27-15 ATS when off of a loss by a double digit margin in their prior game. Also, the 76ers are a long-term 56-30 ATS in home games. The Bulls are on a 28-57 SU run in road games and when the Sixers win as a favorite they normally cover. The 76ers are on a 47-19 SU run as a favorite and they've gotten the cash in 38 of those 47 wins. With advantages all over the floor (especially with Bulls missing Lauri Markkanen) this one turns into a home blowout. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-16-18 | 76ers +5 v. Celtics | Top | 87-105 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 54 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Boston Celtics @ 8:05 ET - The Celtics won 7 of 9 meetings with the Sixers last year. Boston has also won 9 straight home games against Philly. Yet the line on this season opening game opened up at just a 5. You know where I am going here as this is a perfect example of what my contrarian picks are all about. While Boston at home looks enticing it should prove out that Philly was the right side in this one! Keep in mind, Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward are back for Boston but are returning from injuries. Also, the 76ers Markelle Fultz worked hard on his shot in the off-season. He adds value to a team loaded with talent including Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and JJ Redick. Look for the highly motivated Sixers to prove to be the much hungrier team in this one and they are making some changes on defense in this one that should help them be stronger in the paint against the Celtics. Only time will tell but I feel an upset looms tonight and, keep in mind, the last 4 meetings between these teams featured a 76ers win and 3 Sixers losses but all of those Philly defeats came by a margin of 5 or less points. 10* PHILADELPHIA |