C-USA Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on Western Kentucky plus the points over Liberty at 7:30 pm et on Wednesday.

Liberty checks into this game sporting the better overall record this season but Western Kentucky has faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. The Flames have had three days off to pat themselves on the back after they delivered their ninth straight victory on Saturday. Keep in mind, Liberty has dropped the cash in each of its last two games. Western Kentucky figures to be in a foul mood after getting 'upset' in blowout fashion at home against Kennesaw State on Saturday. That snapped the Hilltoppers two-game SU and ATS winning streak. I like the setup for the home side here. Liberty has shot the lights out in three consecutive games but runs into a tough Western Kentucky defense that has held five straight and eight of its last nine opponents to 24 or fewer made field goals. The Hilltoppers were ice cold from the field on Saturday, connecting on just 20-of-68 field goal attempts. They're well-positioned to bounce back here as Liberty has yielded 27 or more made field goals in five of its last seven games. That's not to mention the fact that the Flames have allowed five of their last seven foes to hoist up 60+ field goal attempts, playing into the hands of a Western Kentucky team that generally thrives in an up-tempo environment (even if that's not how it played out on Saturday). Take Western Kentucky (10*).

ACC Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on N.C. State plus the points over Clemson at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with N.C. State in this ACC showdown on Tuesday. The Wolfpack are coming off a stunning 'upset' loss as double-digit home favorites against Georgia Tech on Saturday. Perhaps they got caught patting themselves on the back following a two-game road sweep of Boston College and Florida State with the latter victory coming by a whopping 44-point margin. While Clemson does own the better overall record in this matchup this season, N.C. State has faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. The Tigers might be the ones patting themselves on the back in this spot as they come off a double-digit win-and-cover over Miami on Saturday, marking their ninth straight win and sixth straight ATS victory. N.C. State turned in an awful shooting performance (23-of-62 from the field) in Saturday's loss. The last time we saw it post a similarly poor performance it rebounded by going on the road and beating Boston College by eight (connecting on 30-of-62 field goal attempts in that contest). Note that the Wolfpack have made good on 28 or more field goals in seven of their last 10 games. On the flip side, their defensive play has been very consistent, holding seven straight and 10 of their last 11 opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals (including 22 or less in six of those contests). Clemson has thrived recently thanks to limiting its opponents scoring opportunities. I do think the Tigers will have their hands full here, however, noting that N.C. State has gotten off 60+ field goal attempts in three straight and 11 of 18 contests this season. We've seen a fairly firm offensive ceiling from Clemson lately as it has been held to 27 or fewer made field goals in 10 straight games, topping out at 76 points over that stretch. Take N.C. State (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto plus the points over Los Angeles at 9:40 pm et on Sunday.

We'll back the Raptors as they begin a five-game western road swing with a stop in Los Angeles on Sunday. Toronto dropped an overtime decision against L.A.'s other team at home on Friday, falling by a 121-117 score against the Clippers. Of note, the Raptors haven't lost consecutive games since a four-game slide in early December. The last time they dropped the cash in back-to-back games was on December 20th and 21st. Since then, Toronto has gone 8-5 ATS over its last 13 contests. The Lakers have lost five of their last six games including last night's blowout defeat in Portland. They're dealing with key injuries and while Luka Doncic has a good chance of returning on Sunday, I still don't like the spot as they look ahead to a long seven-game road trip that begins in Denver on Tuesday. Not only is this a back-to-back situation but also a five-in-seven spot for Los Angeles. Add in the fact that Toronto will be looking to avenge an earlier 123-120 'upset' loss at home against Los Angeles and we'll confidently back the Raps on Sunday. Take Toronto (10*).

Horizon League Game of the Year. My selection is on Robert Morris plus the points over Northern Kentucky at 7 pm et on Saturday.

Robert Morris enters this game in a world of hurt following three straight losses including an overtime defeat at IU-Indy two nights ago. Here, it will look to avenge an earlier 79-77 home loss against Northern Kentucky. Note that while the Norse do own the better overall record in this matchup this season, they've also played one additional game and have faced the weaker schedule by most metrics. As far as I'm concerned, these two teams have been virtual mirror images of one another with both able to pour it on offensively but with a tendency to play 'matador-like' defense. Northern Kentucky not only defeated Robert Morris in the first meeting but has reeled off five wins in its last six games. I simply feel it will have a hard time winning this rematch by margin on Saturday, noting that the Colonials have been tough to put way, connecting on 25 or more field goals in 14 straight and 17 of their last 18 games. Take Robert Morris (10*).

Big 12 Game of the Month. My selection is on Colorado plus the points over West Virginia at 6 pm et on Saturday.

We'll grab the points with the Buffaloes as they look to salvage the back-end of this two-game road trip after dropping a 77-68 decision at Cincinnati earlier this week. Colorado owns the slightly better overall record in this matchup this season and has also faced a tougher schedule (not by much) by most metrics. West Virginia has leaned on its defense for much of the campaign, but has allowed its last three opponents to get off 62, 61 and 58 field goal attempts. With that type of volume, Colorado has the potential to thrive offensively in this matchup. The Buffaloes have connected on 25 or more field goals in eight of their last nine games and 29 or more in five of those contests. Defense has been another story as Colorado has struggled at times in that department. With that being said, I'm not convinced West Virginia can take full advantage. The Mountaineers have been held to 22 or fewer made field goals in three of their last four contests. I think Colorado might welcome the opportunity to face a slower-paced team after coming out on the wrong side of some track meets in recent weeks. Take Colorado (10*).

Divisional Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Buffalo plus the points over Denver at 4:30 pm et on Saturday.

I don't think Buffalo could have hoped for a better Divisional Round matchup than this. Hear me out. The Bills crushed the Broncos 31-7 in last year's playoffs, albeit at home. Denver is a better team this year and Buffalo has been decimated by injuries on both sides of the football. With that being said, I think all of the pressure is on the Broncos in this matchup as they had a phenomenal regular season to earn the number one seed and get this game at home. I don't have a ton of faith in Denver to deliver, however. QB Bo Nix came up big at times but also wilted under the pressure at others. The way to beat the Bills is by running the football but the Broncos don't exactly have an elite stable of running backs to lean on. I don't like the fact that Denver closed out the regular season with consecutive 'layups' against a Chiefs team led by QB Chris Oladokun and a Chargers squad quarterbacked by Trey Lance. The prospect of facing QB Josh Allen should certainly worry Broncos supporters here. Of note, Denver parlayed one of the easiest schedules in the league to a one-seed. We successfully faded the Broncos in their most recent loss - at home against the Jaguars on December 21st - and we'll do so again here. Take Buffalo (10*).

Ohio Valley Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on SIU-Edwardsville plus the points over Tennessee-Martin at 8:30 pm et on Thursday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with SIU-Edwardsville on Thursday as it travels to face Tennessee-Martin. I don't think there's a lot separating these two teams, certainly not as much as being indicated by the lofty pointspread. The Cougars have been idle for the last week, giving them ample time to chew on a 73-70 'upset' loss at home against Arkansas-Little Rock last Thursday. SIU-Edwardsville has actually gone 7-4 SU over its last 11 games. Interestingly, this will be the first time it has checked in as an underdog since November 17th, when it covered as a 25.5-point underdog at Wisconsin. Tennessee-Martin has reeled off five straight victories including two in a row ATS. It is probably feeling pretty good about itself and has been idle since Saturday's 73-56 rout of a bad Southern Indiana team. Note that the Skyhawks have been held to 25 or fewer made field goals in four straight games, going 2-2 ATS over that stretch. That leaves a relatively small margin for error when laying this many points. SIU-Edwardsville has held up reasonably well defensively in recent weeks, allowing 25 or fewer made field goals in five straight games. Take SIU-Edwardsville (10*).

Revenge Game of the Year. My selection is on Houston plus the points over Oklahoma City at 7:40 pm et on Thursday.

The Rockets ended their three-game losing streak with a win but non-cover at home against the Bulls two nights ago. That was an encouraging performance as they knocked down 45-of-88 field goal attempts while limiting Chicago to just 41 makes on 94 attempts. Still, Houston is in uncharted territory mired in a six-game ATS losing streak. Their previous longest ATS skid lasted only four games in December. The Thunder can breathe a sigh of relief after finally beating the Spurs for the first time in four tries this season on Tuesday. We won with Oklahoma City in that contest but I won't hesitate to go the other way in this one as the Rockets look to avenge a 125-124 loss suffered in their season opener against the Thunder back on October 21st. This is undoubtedly a rematch Houston has had circled on its calendar and I like its chances of getting its revenge. Take Houston (10*).

Missouri Valley Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Southern Illinois minus the points over Drake at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

Southern Illinois has had a full week to stew over an 'upset' loss suffered on the road against Illinois-Chicago last Wednesday. The Salukis were in a clear letdown spot on the that night as they were fresh off a 68-67 'upset' win on the road against Belmont. I look for Southern Illinois to bounce back on Wednesday as it hosts Drake. These two teams own identical overall records this season but not all records are created equal as Southern Illinois has faced the considerably more difficult schedule by most metrics. It's been a down year for Drake so far. It checks in 2-6 SU and ATS over its last eight games with the only two victories coming against two of the Missouri Valley Conference's weakest teams in Evansville and Indiana State (it won those two contests by a combined three points). The Bulldogs have gotten off fewer than 60 field goal attempts in seven straight and nine of their last 10 games and I think they'll struggle to keep pace with the Salukis in this matchup. Southern Illinois has hoisted up 60+ field goal attempts in four of its last seven contests and has knocked down 25 or more field goals in nine of its last 10 overall. Take Southern Illinois (10*).

MAAC Game of the Month. My selection is on Manhattan plus the points over Fairfield at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

Both of these teams want to play fast but I think Manhattan does it a little better. The Jaspers check in sporting the weaker overall record in this matchup this season but they've also faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Fairfield won but failed to cover in its most recent victory over Rider on Friday. The Stags have allowed their last seven opponents to knock down 28, 25, 23, 28, 25, 31 and 24 field goals, opening the door for the Jaspers to keep this game competitive all the way. Regardless the level of opposition, Manhattan continues to generate its share of scoring opportunities, hoisting up more than 60 field goal attempts in five of its last seven games. At 5-1-1 ATS over its last seven contests, we'll grab the points with the Jaspers here. Take Manhattan (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Oklahoma City minus the points over San Antonio at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Spurs will be looking for their fourth straight win over the Thunder this season but I think we'll see Oklahoma City finally answer back on Tuesday. The Thunder are at home and rested following three straight victories. They've actually dropped the cash in five straight games, however, and I think that's leaving this pointspread a little light on Tuesday, noting that the Thunder were favored by 10 points the last time they faced the Spurs on Christmas Day. San Antonio suffered a hard-fought 104-103 loss in Minnesota on Sunday. That marked its third straight ATS victory. As well as the Spurs have played this season, they've yet to notch four consecutive ATS wins. The only other time they tried to accomplish that feat they suffered a nine-point loss in Phoenix. Take Oklahoma City (10*).

Wild Card Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over San Francisco at 4:30 pm et on Sunday.

The Eagles have long been a favorite of ours to be on in the postseason and this year sets up no different with a lot of bettors and casual onlookers down on them following an up-and-down regular season. Philadelphia enters the playoffs as healthy as it's been in some time with Lane Johnson slated to return to anchor the offensive line and it draws a favorable Wild Card matchup against the undermanned 49ers. It's been a struggle for San Francisco to patch together a defense with so many key injuries suffered over the course of the season. I think the most recent one, to LB Tatum Bethune, is far more critical than most realize. This sets up as a smash spot for an Eagles offense that hasn't always laid all of its cards out on the table this season. On the flip side, the Niners offense has dealt with key injuries down the stretch as well. All-world tackle Trent Williams might be able to give it a go but he's not 100% healthy. WR Ricky Pearsall, who has been one of QB Brock Purdy's favorite targets, is questionable to play as well. There's simply no matchup advantages to be found against an elite Eagles defense. For the Niners to stay in this game a lot of things will have to break right and I just don't see it happening on the road against an Eagles team that has proven it plays its best football in the postseason. Take Philadelphia (10*).

Conference-USA Game of the Month. My selection is on Western Kentucky minus the points over UTEP at 4 pm et on Saturday.

We'll lay the points with Western Kentucky on Saturday as it looks to rebound following a blowout loss at New Mexico State on Thursday, marking its second straight ATS defeat. This is a soft landing spot for the Hilltoppers as they stay on the road to face a 5-10 UTEP squad that has faced a weaker schedule than them by most metrics this season (Western Kentucky checks in 9-6). The Hilltoppers certainly had their opportunities against New Mexico State, getting off 68 field goal attempts, but shot a miserable 30.9% from the field. Of note, Western Kentucky has held five of its last six opponents to 24 or fewer made field goals and it draws a favorable matchup in that regard here. UTEP plays at a fairly slow pace, often to its own detriment, having connected on 26 or fewer field goals in seven straight and eight of its last nine contests. The Miners have yet to allow an opponent to get off 60+ field goal attempts this season yet they've still yielded 26 or more made field goals in three straight and six of their last 13 contests. Take Western Kentucky (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto plus the points over Boston at 7:10 pm et on Friday.

This is an obvious bounce-back spot for the Celtics at home after they were 'upset' by the Nuggets here two nights ago. I don't think we'll see the Raptors simply roll over for them on Friday, however. Toronto figures to have had this game circled on its calendar after dropping a pair of home games in lopsided fashion against Boston in December. The Raptors enter this contest playing well, riding a three-game winning streak. They sit only a game behind the second-place Celtics in the Atlantic Division standings with two games-in-hand. Toronto has certainly held its own on the road this season where it has gone 11-7 SU. Boston is only slightly better at 11-6 on its home floor. Take Toronto (10*).

Big Sky Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Northern Arizona plus the points over Weber State at 8 pm et on Thursday.

I think the case can be made for the wrong team being favored in this matchup. Weber State does own the slightly better overall record this season but Northern Arizona has faced the more difficult schedule (albeit not by much) by most metrics. The Wildcats check in off a double-digit win over Sacramento State last time out. In fact they've scored 90+ points in three straight games, going 2-1 over that stretch. Still, they're just 1-5 ATS over their last six lined contests. Northern Arizona comes off a tough two-game road trip that saw it go 0-2 SU and 1-1 ATS, dropping games against Montana and Montana State. I do like the fact that the Lumberjacks have limited seven straight opponents to 60 or fewer field goal attempts and six of those foes to 56 or less. That should serve them well against a Weber State team that would prefer to go up-tempo. Take Northern Arizona (10*).

CAA Game of the Year. My selection is on William and Mary minus the points over Monmouth at 7 pm et on Thursday.

We'll lay the points with William and Mary on Thursday as it looks to rebound following a disappointing loss at College of Charleston earlier this week. That defeat only served to span the Tribe's three-game SU and nine-game ATS winning streak. It was quite simply an off shooting night for William and Mary as it connected on just 25-of-77 field goal attempts in the loss, perhaps displaying a little rust after a four-day layoff. Now the Tribe have had a couple of days to stew over that defeat and I expect them to bounce back on Thursday. Monmouth has been idle since Saturday's stunning double-digit 'upset' win at Towson. The Hawks took full advantage of an ice cold shooting performance from the Tigers in that one (18-of-66 from the field). Of note, Monmouth is still just 2-4 SU and ATS over its last six games. The Hawks own the worse overall record in this particular matchup this season and have also faced the slightly easier schedule by most metrics. They've knocked down 26 or fewer field goals in five of their last seven contests and I think they'll have a difficult time keeping pace here. Take William and Mary (10*).

SEC Game of the Year. My selection is on Florida minus the points over Georgia at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll lay the points with the Gators as these two teams renew their SEC rivalry on Tuesday. Florida checks in off an 'upset' win away from home on Saturday as it fell by a bucket at Missouri. The Gators had an off game, connecting on just 26-of-63 field goal attempts. Keep in mind, they've been incredibly consistent offensively this season, knocking down 25 or more field goals in all 14 games to date. I fully expect them to get out and run against a Georgia team that hasn't had any interest in dictating a slow pace, allowing 63 or more field goal attempts in nine straight games entering Tuesday's contest. The Bulldogs are off to a red hot 13-1 start to the season and have reeled off seven straight wins. Keep in mind, they've faced a very manageable schedule - certainly far weaker than that of Florida. Also note that Georgia has actually dropped the cash in four straight and eight of its last 11 games. The Gators certainly haven't been a good bet in the early going this season with only three pointspread victories through 14 games. I do like the setup here, however, noting that Florida has held four straight opponents to 25 or fewer made field goals and 10 of its last 13 foes to 26 or less. Take Florida (10*).

Southland Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Houston Christian plus the points over Texas A&M Corpus Christi at 8 pm et on Monday.

We'll grab the points with the home side in this conference matchup on Monday. Texas A&M Corpus Christi does own the better overall record in this matchup this season but it has also faced the weaker schedule by most metrics. The Islanders are fresh off back-to-back wins and covers against New Orleans and Texas Rio Grande Valley with the latter win coming in 'upset' fashion. Houston Christian has lost five games in a row and will be happy to be back home after three straight difficult road games in which it was listed as an underdog in all three. Note that the Huskies have yet to lose consecutive games ATS this season - a fate they'll look to avoid on Monday after dropping the cash against Incarnate Word last time out. Take Houston Christian (10*).

NFC South Game of the Month. My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Atlanta at 1 pm et on Sunday.

I think grabbing the points will be paramount in this game that will draw a lot of eyes in the early window of games on Sunday. New Orleans will be looking to avenge an earlier 24-10 home loss against Atlanta this season. The Saints couldn't be playing much better and while their offense figures to be limited without WR Chris Olave, I'm not about to write them off as their defense has quietly excelled down the stretch. The Falcons are in a pretty obvious letdown spot off Monday's 'upset' win over the Rams. Atlanta has certainly been playing well but I don't love the prospect of it laying points in a divisional 'revenge' game off that big outright underdog victory. The Saints know they're going to get a heavy dose of Falcons RB Bijan Robinson as he plays for a number of milestones and I'm certainly they'll be ready. Take New Orleans (10*).

NFC West Game of the Month. My selection is on San Francisco plus the points over Seattle at 8 pm et on Saturday.

I can understand the logic behind support for the Seahawks as a road favorite in this spot. After all, we won with Seattle in last week's 27-10 rout of the Panthers in Carolina. I just can't get there with Sam Darnold and this Seahawks offense, however. The 49ers have reeled off six straight wins both SU and ATS and while the potential absence of all-world LT Trent Williams is concerning, I think Kyle Shanahan has just enough in his toolbox to orchestrate another successful gameplan in this matchup. Credit the Seahawks for their incredible run but I think we see a scenario play out where they struggle to run the football in this game and too much ends up placed on Sam Darnold's shoulders. That would be a similar scenario to what happened for Seattle in its most recent loss, way back on November 16th in Los Angeles, when key turnovers ended up being the difference in a 21-19 defeat. We know San Francisco can take care of the football, noting that it has turned it over once or less in eight of its last 10 contests. Expect another whip-smart game from the Niners as they improve to 2-0 against the Seahawks this season. Take San Francisco (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington -1.5 goals over Chicago at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

I like the way this spot sets up for the Capitals as they return home following a fruitless one-game road trip to Ottawa (where they lost 4-3 on Thursday). The Caps are 12-7-2 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.5 goals. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are 7-10-3 on the road, outscored by 0.8 goals on average and find themselves in a letdown spot off a big 'upset' win over the Stars at home on Thursday. Note that it's been tough sledding for Chicago over the last month as it checks in 3-10 over its last 13 games with seven of those losses coming by at least two goals. Take Washington -1.5 goals (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on SMU plus the points over Arizona at 8 pm et on Friday.

With very little separating these two teams in all aspects, we'll grab the points (you should still be able to find the Mustangs catching a point at the time of writing) in this Friday night matchup. You could argue that Arizona's five-game winning streak to close out the regular season, which culminated with a lopsided win over rival Arizona State, was more important than anything it will possibly accomplish in this post-New Year's Bowl game against SMU. This is the year the Wildcats defense really stepped up and thrived off of takeaways, but as we noted in yesterday's play on Oregon over Texas Tech, turnovers aren't really a predictable metric and they can swing the other way at any given time. SMU had high hopes entering the season but those were quickly dashed with early losses to Baylor and TCU. The Mustangs did close out the regular season by going 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS over their final eight contests. Despite it being an up-and-down season, I did like the way the Mustangs rose to the occasion in big games, on the road against Clemson and at home against Miami in particular. This is a team that has proven the ability to all but snuff out opposing ground attacks and I think that can serve them well as they look to make Arizona one-dimensional in this game. Take SMU (10*).

Conference-USA Game of the Month. My selection is on UTEP plus the points over Missouri State at 8 pm et on Friday.

Missouri State is making its first foray into Conference-USA from the Missouri Valley Conference this season. It will host UTEP on Friday and I can't help but feel the Bears are laying too many points. The Miners do own the inferior overall record in this matchup this season but they've also faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. I do like what I've seen from UTEP defensively as it has held six straight opponents to 24 or fewer made field goals - a big reason it has gone 3-1 ATS in its last four games as an underdog. Offensively, the Miners have at least been consistent, connecting on 24 or more field goals in six of their last eight contests. Missouri State has reeled off three straight wins but has been scuffling along offensively, making good on 21 or fewer field goals in three of its last four contests. The Bears, like the Miners, have really risen to the occasion defensively in spots but have also yielded 28 or more made field goals in four of their last seven games. Both teams have been idle for the last three days but while UTEP has been stewing over a double-digit loss at Louisiana Tech, Missouri State has been patting itself on the back following a third straight victory, that coming in blowout fashion at Delaware. Take UTEP (10*).

Bowl Game of the Year. My selection is on Georgia minus the points over Ole Miss at 8 pm et on Thursday.

I'm not sure that Georgia is getting the respect it deserves in the College Football Playoffs. You hear a lot about Indiana to be sure. You did hear a lot about Ohio State and now will hear plenty about Miami following its 'upset' win on Wednesday. I like the way Georgia is set up to advance as it draws Ole Miss on Thursday. The Bulldogs own an identical 12-1 record to that of the Rebels, but Georgia has faced the more difficult schedule, albeit not by much, by most metrics. The last time we saw the Rebels they laid waste to an overmatched Tulane team in the opening round of the CFP on December 20th. That marked Ole Miss' second straight ATS victory. Of note, it is still just 4-4 ATS over its last eight games after starting the season 4-1 ATS. The Bulldogs have charted a similar course lately, going 3-3 ATS over their last six games. They have proven to be a streaky team from an ATS perspective this season and I'm confident they can post a second straight ATS victory here as this line seems a little light. Note that Georgia took the first meeting between these two teams by a 43-35 score in Athens on October 18th. I think that's leading many to believe that we'll see another very competitive affair here but I'm not convinced the Rebels offense can generate as much this time around. We know Georgia will make the necessary defensive adjustments and it enters this contest having held its last four opponents to a combined 29 points. The Ole Miss offense has been humming but it also faced a schedule that was front-loaded. Its last four games have come against The Citadel, Florida, Mississippi State and Tulane. Take Georgia (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Los Angeles at 11:10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Clippers have reeled off four straight wins both SU and ATS with all four victories coming by double-digit margins. I question whether they can keep it up, noting that they've gotten off just 80, 77, 69 and 75 field goals over that stretch, obviously shooting exceptionally well along the way. The Kings, while one of the league's bottom-feeders, are a volume-shooting team and I think they can get enough opportunities to ultimately keep this game close on Tuesday. Note that Sacramento has hoisted up more than 90 field goal attempts in 10 of its last 16 games. It managed to knock down 40 or more field goals in 13 of those contests. This will be the first meeting between these divisional opponents this season and as such, I'm not sure the betting marketplace has a firm handle on the line. While the Kings are just 2-4 over their last six games only one of those four defeats came by double-digits (on Sunday against the Lakers). Take Sacramento (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Philadelphia plus the points over Buffalo at 4:25 pm et on Sunday.

Maybe Josh Allen carries the Bills on his back and extends their four-game winning streak on Sunday but I'm willing to pay to see it. Philadelphia was written off by a lot of bettors weeks ago but they've quietly turned things around with consecutive lopsided victories over the Raiders and Commanders. While I realize the Eagles recent strength of schedule leaves a lot to be desired, I do like the way they match up on the road against the Bills on Sunday. Buffalo's defense has fallen off a cliff lately, particularly against the run. That should be music to the ears of Philadelphia RB Saquon Barkley. In fact, I would give the Eagles the edge in virtually every aspect of this game with the exception being the quarterback position. The wrong team is favored with a little too much weight being placed on Buffalo's home field advantage in my opinion. Take Philadelphia (10*).

Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Phoenix at 7:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Suns are 2-0 SU and ATS against the Pelicans this season after winning right here in New Orleans last night. That game could have gone either way but the Pelicans couldn't hit their shots down the stretch and ultimately lost by seven points. We'll call for New Orleans to bounce back and avoid the season series sweep at the hands of the Suns on Saturday. While Phoenix has gone 3-1 over its last four games, only last night's victory came on the road. The Suns are still just 7-8 SU away from home this season. The Pelicans have now dropped the cash in consecutive games but are still 14-5 ATS over their last 19 contests. Take New Orleans (10*).

Bowl Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on Miami-Ohio plus the points over Fresno State at 4:30 pm et on Saturday.

Most might be quick to dismiss Miami-Ohio as a 6-6 MAC team going up against 8-4 Fresno State in Arizona on Saturday. We'll grab all the points we can get with the Redhawks as I think they can put the Bulldogs on 'upset' alert in this one. Miami-Ohio may be 6-6 on the campaign but it has faced a considerably more difficult schedule than Fresno State by most metrics. The highlight for the Bulldogs was a 30-7 road win over eventual Mountain West Conference champion Boise State in early November. They did close out the regular season on a high note with three wins in their final four games including a blowout win over San Jose State in their regular season finale. Meanwhile, the Redhawks left a sour taste in their backers mouhts with a 23-13 'upset' loss against Western Michigan in the MAC Championship Game earlier this month. Sure to be in a foul mood off that defeat, I like Miami-Ohio's chances of at least taking this one down to the wire on Saturday. Take Miami-Ohio (10*).

AFC West Game of the Month. My selection is on Denver minus the points over Kansas City at 8:15 pm et on Thursday.

I think the knee-jerk reaction from most bettors might be to grab the boatload of points with the Chiefs at home on Christmas Night. Kansas City is coming off an embarrassing but somewhat expected loss at Tennessee on Sunday. Of course, the Chiefs season is over for all intents and purposes. With nothing to play for we've seen a mass exodus to the injured list. Chris Oladokun will start this game behind a makeshift offensive line and he won't have top target Rashee Rice at his disposal. The playoff-bound Broncos figure to be in a foul mood after Sunday's convincing loss at home against the red hot Jaguars. We won with Jacksonville in that game but I'm confident we'll see Sean Payton's squad bounce back with a statement win by margin here. Were Denver not coming off a loss it would be easy to overlook Kansas City but that's not the situation it is in. Take Denver (10*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Chicago at 7:40 pm et on Tuesday.

The Hawks have now lost three games in a row SU and five straight ATS including a wild 152-150 defeat here at home against these same Bulls on Sunday. That game certainly could have gone either way as both teams shot the lights out but Chicago performed better in the clutch and was able to manage a lead most of the way. Here, the Bulls will be looking to sweep back-to-back two-game sets against the Cavaliers and Hawks but I expect them to fall short. Keep in mind, prior to their current three-game winning streak, the Bulls had lost nine of their last 11 games SU and 10 of their last 12 ATS. They've caught fire offensively during their current streak but I'm confident we'll see the Hawks make the necessary adjustments as they try to avoid a fourth straight loss and third in a row at home. This is also a double-revenge spot for Atlanta after dropping its first two matchups with Chicago this season. The Hawks will have the benefit of staying home for a two-day holiday break before hosting Miami on the 26th. Meanwhile, Chicago will have one eye on a return home where it will open a long six-game homestand against Philadelphia on Friday. Take Atlanta (10*). 

Southland Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on UT-Rio Grande Valley plus the points over Lamar at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

Lamar owns the better overall record in this matchup but UT-Rio Grande Valley has faced the considerably more difficult schedule by most metrics. These two teams stand as the only winless squads in the Southland Conference but it's obviously early (both have played just one conference game). We'll grab all the points we can get with the Vaqueros as I think they can put the Cardinals on 'upset' alert on Tuesday. Note that UTRGV has had four full days to chew on a 58-50 'upset' defeat at home against UT-Arlington on Thursday. The Vaqueros simply couldn't make good on their scoring opportunities in that slow-paced affair, connecting on only 18-of-47 field goal attempts. UTRGV has done a nice job of keeping the opposition in check, at least when not stepping way up in class, limiting five of its last six foes to 24 or fewer made field goals (the only opponent to eclipse that number over that stretch was Illinois in a game UTRGV was a +33 point underdog and lost by just 14). It's been a similar story for Lamar but as noted it has faced a weaker schedule. The Cardinals have knocked down 25 or fewer field goals in five of nine games to date, despite getting off 60+ field goal attempts in six of those contests. I think we'll see UTRGV limit Lamar's scoring opportunities in this one and ultimately turn it into an ugly affair where grabbing points is paramount. Take UT-Rio Grande Valley (10*).

AFC Game of the Month. My selection is on Miami plus the points over Pittsburgh at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

This game harkens back memories to Pittsburgh's 3-0 Monday night victory over Miami in the 'Mud Bowl' of 2007 (we actually cashed the 'under' in that game ;) The Steelers pulled out a 27-22 'upset' win in Baltimore last Sunday but I'm not convinced that victory will be of the 'tide-turning' variety. You're not going to win many games running for less than 40 yards but that's what Pittsburgh accomplished last week. The Steelers are still trending in the wrong direction having gone 3-5 SU and ATS over their last eight games and their home field advantage has been virtually non-existent in recent years. The Dolphins enter this game riding a four-game winning streak (3-1 ATS). Tanking was probably the prudent move after a miserable start to the season but instead Miami persevered and now finds itself still with something to play for down the stretch, even if its chances or reaching the playoffs are remote. I like the way the Dolphins match up in this particular contest. The Steelers have been getting gashed by opposing ground attacks and one thing Miami does well is run the football with RB De'Von Achane. He's been cleared to play after suffering an injury last week. QB Tua Tagovailoa has evolved into a true game manager and there's nothing wrong with that in this offense. Defensively, the Dolphins have all but erased opposing ground attacks in recent weeks and have the potential to make the Steelers one-dimensional on offense, noting that unit has been of the pop-gun variety for much of the season. This has all the makings of an ugly affair so we'll grab all the points we can get with the underdog Dolphins. Take Miami (10*).

AFC East Game of the Month. My selection is on Buffalo minus the points over New England at 1 pm et on Sunday.

We'll lay the short number with the revenge-minded Bills as they travel to Foxborough to take on the Patriots on Sunday. There's a clear path to victory for Buffalo in this matchup as New England has proven vulnerable in one particular area and that's defending the run, which plays right into the hands of the strength of the Bills offense. I don't think we'll see Buffalo bang its head against the wall trying to come up with big plays through the air in this contest. Instead, I see its gameplan playing out similarly to how it attacked Pittsburgh in a road win two weeks ago. The Bills defense will look to snuff out the Patriots passing attack in this rematch and I'm confident they'll have success doing so boasting an elite pass defense. While Pats QB Drake Maye is having an MVP-caliber season, I think this is a matchup where he runs into considerable resistance. Take Buffalo (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New Mexico State plus the points over Tulsa at 3 pm et on Saturday.

Tulsa has to be feeling pretty good about itself after reeling off six straight wins. The Golden Hurricane are off to a blistering 6-1-1 ATS start in lined contests but I think they'll have their hands full against New Mexico State on Saturday. The Aggies have lost two straight games following a 6-0 start to the campaign. Of note, they've faced a more difficult schedule than the Golden Hurricane by most metrics. I do think New Mexico State can take this game down to the wire at the very least, noting that it has held all eight of its opponents to 25 or fewer made field goals this season. On the flip side, the Aggies had connected on 28 or more field goals in three of their last four games prior to an off shooting night in an 'upset' defeat on the road against Abilene Christian last time out. They've had ample time to chew on that defeat, and consecutive losses, having not played since last Saturday. Take New Mexico State (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Colorado -1.5 goals over Florida at 9:35 pm et on Thursday.

I really like the way this spot sets up for the Avalanche as they return home off a somewhat disappointing 2-2 road trip that wrapped up with a shootout loss in Nashville on Tuesday. Note that Colorado is 11-0-2 at home this season where it has outscored opponents by an average margin of 2.5 goals. Florida checks in off a win in Utah last night, prevailing 4-3 on a goal late in the third period. The Panthers are still just 5-6 on the road this season, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals in those contests. Florida does enter riding a three-game winning streak but I'll point out that seven of its last eight losses have come by at least two goals. Meanwhile, the Avs have won seven straight home games by two goals or more. Take Colorado -1.5 goals (10*).

My selection is on Cal State-Bakersfield plus the points over North Dakota State at 9:30 pm et on Thursday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with Cal State-Bakersfield on Thursday as it looks to snap its two-game slide at home against North Dakota State. Both teams have proven vulnerable defensively, but it's the Bison that are laying a considerable number of points, on the road no less, in this matchup. NDSU checks in having allowed seven of its last nine opponents to knock down at least 26 field goals. That's despite five of those nine opponents getting off fewer than 60 field goal attempts. Bakersfield will be happy to be back home after four straight road games. Of note, it has gone 3-0 on its home court, albeit against lesser opposition than it will face on Thursday. The Roadrunners do already have an 'upset' win under their belt this season, defeating Fresno State as a double-digit underdog on November 30th. Bakersfield has at the very least been consistent offensively, making good on 21 or more field goals in nine straight games despite getting off 58 or fewer field goal attempts in six of those contests. Finally, we'll note that the Roadrunners, while sporting an inferior record to that of the Bison, have faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Take Cal State-Bakersfield (8*).

Southeast Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Miami minus the points over Orlando at 6:10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Heat are 0-2 SU but 2-0 ATS against the Magic so far this season. I look for them to finally get over the hump and notch a win in this NBA Cup quarter-final matchup on Tuesday. Miami has been idle since Saturday's 'upset' loss at home against the Kings. We won with Sacramento in that game as it was a miserable spot for the Heat playing the second of back-to-backs off a one-point defeat right here in Orlando the night previous. The Magic are an even 2-2 SU but 0-4 ATS over their last four contests. Things just haven't gone as planned for Orlando this season as it has struggled to live up to expectations. I don't think it advances past this round of the NBA Cup. Take Miami (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Philadelphia at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

The knee-jerk reaction is probably to lay the points with the defending champion Eagles as they look to avoid the unthinkable - a three-game losing streak with all three defeats potentially coming in 'upset' fashion. We'll go the other way, however, and grab the points with the Chargers at home. Philadelphia is dealing with key injuries and inefficiency at this point. It would be difficult to isolate two more damaging injuries for Philadelphia than Lane Johnson and Jalen Carter on the offensive and defensive lines, respectively. The Chargers know all about o-line injuries with Joe Alt sidelined. With that being said, at least Los Angeles has displayed more of an identity on offense. The Eagles look lost at times with RB Saquon Barkley seemingly running in place and QB Jalen Hurts struggling to find his targets down the field. This matchup sets up well for the Chargers defense and I think Los Angeles can also effectively run the football on offense, especially with rookie RB Omarion Hampton expected to return. QB Justin Herbert isn't likely going to be asked to do too much in this particular matchup as he's admittedly banged up. We'll take our chances with the home side catching points here. Take Los Angeles (10*).

NFC Game of the Month. My selection is on Minnesota plus the points over Washington at 1 pm et on Sunday.

Perhaps no team is more in need of a 'get right' spot than the Vikings right now and I think they're well-positioned for exactly that as they return home to host the Commanders on Sunday. We won with Washington in last Sunday night's wild overtime defeat at the hands of the Broncos. The Commanders left it all on the field in that game and while they will welcome back dual-threat QB Jayden Daniels on Sunday, this isn't a promising matchup for him, likely still playing at less than 100% and with little reason to put too much on the line with the team simply playing out the string at this point. Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy has really struggled since returning from injury but he does draw a favorable matchup here. The Commanders defense can be hole-punched by even the most pedestrian offensive attacks and I do think we see the Vikes throw everything they have at them in an effort to save face off an embarrassing loss last week and following four losses in a row both SU and ATS. Take Minnesota (10*).

NFC South Game of the Year. My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Tampa Bay at 1 pm et on Sunday.

We cashed a big ticket fading the Buccaneers last week as they left the back door wide open in an eventual three-point home win over the Cardinals. We'll grab the points at the expense of the Bucs again this week as I feel they're once again overvalued at home. Tampa Bay remains banged-up all over the field. QB Baker Mayfield hasn't looked quite himself for weeks. Even last Sunday, when they got a boost from the return of RB Bucky Irving, the Bucs could still only muster 20 points. They've been held to 23 points or less in four of their last five games and are winless ATS over their last four contests. The losses continue to pile up for the Saints but they have at least provided some optimism by going 2-1 ATS in their last three games. They showed no quit in last week's four-point loss in Miami and given they've held seven of their last eight opponents to 26 points or less, I believe they're in good position to stay inside the lofty pointspread on Sunday. Keep in mind, this is a division 'revenge' game for New Orleans after it was dusted 23-3 at home back on October 26th. That was when the Saints were in the midst of a four-game SU and ATS slide while the Bucs improved to 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS with that victory but are 1-3 SU and 0-4 ATS since. Take New Orleans (10*).

ACC Game of the Year. My selection is on Duke plus the points over Virginia at 8 pm et on Saturday.

These two teams just met on November 15th as Virginia rolled to a 34-17 'upset' victory on the road. The pointspread has flipped ahead of this rematch in the ACC Championship Game on Saturday. We'll grab all the points we can get with the Blue Devils. While Virginia owns the better overall record this season, Duke has faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. I like the way the Blue Devils picked themselves up and dusted themselves off following that defeat at the hands of the Cavaliers, rallying for wins over North Carolina and Wake Forest. Virginia couldn't have looked much better in last Saturday's 27-7 rout of in-state rival Virginia Tech. I can't help but feel that's left the Cavaliers overvalued in this rematch with the Blue Devils. Look for Duke to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Duke (10*).

Conference Championship Game of the Year. My selection is on Ohio State minus the points over Indiana at 8 pm et on Saturday.

Indiana has obviously had a phenomenal season, running the table to this point with a 12-0 record - identical to that of Ohio State. However the Hoosiers are just 7-5 ATS compared to the Buckeyes 10-1-1 ATS mark and Ohio State has faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Indiana's 'upset' win on the road against Oregon back in October was impressive but apart from that, the Hoosiers simply took care of business in games where the result was rarely in doubt ahead of proceedings. Ohio State book-ended its regular season with impressive wins over Texas and Michigan and was rarely challenged in-between. The Buckeyes lone pointspread defeat came in a 24-point romp over Purdue. This is being pegged as a 'Clash of the Titans' of sorts with the two teams ranked number one and two in the country but I'm not convinced it will be the barn-burner most are expecting. It's been five years since Ohio State has been in the Big Ten Championship Game and I don't think it will take this one for granted. Take Ohio State (10*).

AAC Game of the Month. My selection is on Tulane plus the points over North Texas at 8 pm et on Friday.

North Texas has certainly enjoyed an incredible season, going 11-1 SU and 10-2 ATS on its way to an appearance in Friday's AAC Championship Game. With that being said, Tulane is no pushover. The Green Wave have faced the more difficult schedule than the Mean Green Eagles and check in sporting a 10-2 SU record. While Tulane hasn't enjoyed nearly the same level of pointspread success that's had a lot to do with the fact that it entered the season firmly entrenched on the betting marketplace's radar. While the Green Wave closed the regular season on a 2-4-1 ATS slide over their last six games, they went 6-1 SU over that stretch with all six wins coming by at least six points including an 'upset' victory on the road against Memphis. We'll grab all the points we can get in this much-anticipated matchup. Take Tulane (10*).

Sun Belt Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on James Madison minus the points over Troy at 7 pm et on Friday.

Credit Troy for reaching this Sun Belt Championship Game as it reeled off back-to-back wins and covers against Georgia State and Southern Miss to close out the regular season. Keep in mind, the Trojans are just two games removed from a two-game slide that saw them get outscored by a combined 56-10 margin against Arkansas State and Old Dominion. Note that the SU winner has also covered the spread in 10 straight games involving Troy. James Madison was pretty much discarded following a two-touchdown defeat in a nationally-televised Friday night game in Louisville in Week 2. Since that setback, the Dukes have gone 10-0 SU and 6-4 ATS. They own one of the best defenses in the nation that few talk about and we'll call for them to ultimately pull away in this contest. Take James Madison (10*).

MAAC Game of the Year. My selection is on Quinnipiac plus the points over Iona at 7 pm et on Friday.

Iona has established itself as a household name in college basketball thanks to perennial success in the MAAC. The Gaels are off to a fine start this season as well, racing out to a 6-2 record, but I do think they'll have their hands full with Quinnipiac on Friday. The Bobcats are 5-3 and have faced a more difficult schedule than the Gaels by most metrics. This has the potential to be a barn-burner with both teams yielding a ton of scoring opportunities on a fairly consistent basis in the early going this season. I do think that favors grabbing the points with the underdog Bobcats. Note that Quinnipiac has at least managed to hold four of its eight opponents to 25 or fewer made field goals. All eight of the Gaels opponents have knocked down at least 25 field goals with six of those connecting on 28 or more. A home court edge is certainly being factored into this line although the Bobcats have won consecutive road games outright against the Gaels. Take Quinnipiac (10*).

Big Ten Game of the Month. My selection is on Iowa plus the points over Michigan State at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with Iowa as it heads to the Breslin Center to take on fellow undefeated Michigan State on Tuesday. The Spartans are the nationally-ranked team in this contest and they come in on a high after rolling to a 16-point win over North Carolina on Friday. That was the Spartans third notable victory of the campaign having previously defeated Arkansas and Kentucky as well. There's not a ton of room for improvement in Michigan State's game given how well it has played. It's a different story for Iowa. The Hawkeyes are also 7-0 but come off consecutive poor offensive showings in wins over Ole Miss and Grand Canyon. Like the Spartans, the Hawkeyes have played lock-down defense in the early going, limiting six of seven opponents to 23 made field goals or less. With that in mind, I think there's a path for Iowa to hang tough with Michigan State here. Despite hoisting up 58 or fewer field goal attempts in all seven games to date, the Hawkeyes have made good on 26 more field goals in five of those seven contests. I look for them to make good on enough of their scoring opportunities to take the Spartans down-to-the-wire at the very least on Tuesday. Take Iowa (10*).

MNF Game of the Month. My selection is on New York plus the points over New England at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

The Patriots were severely undervalued following a 1-2 SU and ATS start to the season and went on to win five straight games ATS following that stretch and enter Monday's game on a nine-game SU winning streak. With that being said, they're just 1-2-1 ATS over their last four contests. Pointspread success isn't coming easy for Mike Vrabel's squad right now as the cat is out of the bag, so to speak - the Patriots are the real deal and casual bettors are well aware of that. I think they're overvalued in this spot as they host a Giants team that's seemingly in a constant state of flux. New York hasn't quit on the season as it has pushed the Bears, Packers and Lions - all potential playoff teams - hard in its last three games, going 2-0-1 ATS along the way. It gets a boost here with the return of rookie QB Jaxson Dart. With recent changes to the coaching staff, there's a renewed sense of urgency for the Giants right now. The pressure lies squarely on the Patriots shoulders here as they're expected to win this game after the division-rival Bills took care of business yesterday. Take New York (10*).

NFC Game of the Year. My selection is on Arizona plus the points over Tampa Bay at 1 pm et on Sunday.

Both of these teams enter this game on three-game SU and ATS slides and while Tampa Bay figures to have the talent edge, not to mention home field advantage, I think Arizona comes away victorious. The Cardinals have run up against a difficult schedule over the last six games, facing the Colts, Packers, Cowboys, Seahawks, 49ers and Jaguars in succession. Forgive them if they looked like they ran out of gas in last Sunday's overtime loss to Jacksonville. Arizona has thrown caution to the wind offensively, turning veteran QB Jacoby Brissett loose and all but abandoning its broken ground attack. Against Tampa Bay's struggling defense, Brissett is set up for success again this week. Offensively, the Buccaneers are in tough. While QB Baker Mayfield and rookie WR Emeka Egbuka will once again be on the field, they're nowhere near 100% healthy. Mayfield took a beating against the Rams in primetime last Sunday, injuring his non-throwing shoulder. The Cards have an underrated defense that has been particularly tough defending the pass. Arizona checks in 4-1 ATS on the road this season while Tampa Bay is 1-3 ATS at home. Take Arizona (10*).

AFC South Game of the Month. My selection is on Houston plus the points over Indianapolis at 1 pm et on Sunday.

The Colts have cooled off, dropping two of their last three games including a hard-fought overtime battle in Kansas City last Sunday. I think the door is open for the Texans to make a move in the AFC South and I like the way this matchup sets up for them on Sunday in Indianapolis. We won with Houston last week as it stunned the Bills in a Thursday night home game. While the Texans will hit the road this week, they'll once again benefit from playing indoors, which does give their offense a boost in my opinion. QB C.J. Stroud is set to return and while not a massive difference-maker, he is certainly an upgrade over Davis Mills, who did perform admirably in Stroud's absence. Defensively, the Texans are elite and seemingly getting stronger with each passing week. They'll be ready to tee off on Colts QB Daniel Jones on Sunday as he's looked more and more like the Jones of old lately. While Jonathan Taylor can run on anyone, I think the Colts will have a difficult time ever pulling away in this contest. Take Houston (10*).

Revenge Game of the Year. My selection is on Washington State minus the points over Oregon State at 6:30 pm et on Saturday.

I really like the way this 'revenge' spot sets up for Washington State. Oregon State took the first meeting between these 'last teams standing' in the Pac-12 back on November 1st, prevailing in an ugly 10-7 contest in Corvallis. The scene shifts to Pullman for Saturday's rematch and I look for the Cougars to roll. Washington State has faced the more difficult schedule this season and has posted the better overall record. With a win on Saturday, the Cougars would gain Bowl eligibility. They enter playing some of their best football having won back-to-back games ATS. Note that Washington State's longest ATS winning streak this season lasted four games so this is a team that has earned the trust of its backers. Oregon State comes off back-to-back SU and ATS losses including an ugly defeat against a weak Tulsa team on November 15th. The bye week came at an awful team as the Beavers are simply playing out the string at this point. Take Washington State (10*).

Sun Belt Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Texas State minus the points over South Alabama at 3 pm et on Saturday.

South Alabama emptied the proverbial tank in last week's 42-35 win over Southern Miss on Senior Night - its sixth straight victory over the Golden Eagles. The Jaguars haven't had the same success against Texas State, most recently dropping a 45-38 decision at home in last year's matchup. We'll back the Bobcats here as they look to become Bowl eligible and that would be a big victory given the way the team struggled during a five-game slide earlier in the season. Texas State enters this game on a roll, having won back-to-back games but it did fail to cover the lofty -20 pointspread in last week's win over Louisiana-Monroe. We're working with a more reasonable number this time around. Take Texas State (10*).

Big 12 Game of the Year. My selection is on Utah minus the points over Kansas at 12 noon et on Friday.

The Utes remain in the mix for a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game as they travel to Lawrence to take on the Jayhawks in Friday's regular season finale. Utah has looked like a team on a mission since its 24-21 loss at rival BYU on October 18th. Since that game, the Utes have produced 53, 45, 55 and 51 points in reeling off four straight wins, going 3-1 ATS over that stretch. The lone ATS defeat came on Saturday as it narrowly avoided the 'upset' at home against Kansas State. After allowing 47 points in that game, I expect the Utes defense to enter this contest in a particularly foul mood. Kansas has never been able to regain the form that saw it open the season with four wins in its first six games, dropping four of its last five contests entering Friday's home finale. Running into the well-oiled machine that is the Utes offense spells trouble as the Jayhawks have played matador-like defense down the stretch, allowing 38 points or more points in three of their last five games. The Utes have yet to drop the cash in consecutive games this season, winning by 34 points at West Virginia and 46 points at home against Colorado in their last two games following an ATS loss, and we'll call for them to avoid that fate again on Friday. Take Utah (10*).

NFC North Game of the Year. My selection is on Detroit minus the points over Green Bay at 1 pm et on Thursday.

It's not often we talk about a team being in a 'bounce-back' spot off a win but I think that's the case with the Lions after they narrowly escaped, and needed a late rally to do so, with an overtime win over the Giants on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Packers dismantled the division rival Vikings at home to successfully rebound following a primetime loss to the defending champion Eagles. I don't like the way this matchup sets up for Green Bay as it travels to Detroit on Thursday. The Packers are dealing with a cluster of injuries on the defensive side of the football. Even if their banged-up defenders can go, there's no guarantee they'll be at full strength and this is a nightmarish matchup against an elite Lions offense. Detroit is finally getting healthier defensively with CB Terrion Arnold potentially able to return on Thursday. Even if he can't go, the Lions defense was bolstered by the return of CB D.J. Reed on Sunday. I like the matchup for Detroit's defense against a lukewarm Packers offense that won't have RB Josh Jacobs at 100% health. Emanuel Wilson has done a nice job spelling Jacobs but he's not a proven number one back by any means. Detroit's Thanksgiving Day woes are mostly a thing of the past, although I do think an 'upset' defeat here at home against these same Packers two years ago is still fresh in its mind entering this clash. Expect a statement performance from the Lions. Take Detroit (10*).

Southeast Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington plus the points over Atlanta at 7:10 pm et on Tuesday.

The knee-jerk reaction is probably to lay the points with the Hawks in this one as the Wizards enter riding a 14-game losing streak while Atlanta has won back-to-back games and checks in 11-7 on the season. We'll go the other way, however, and grab the points with the Wizards, noting that Atlanta has won just three of 11 road games by more than 10 points this season. Washington is actually 2-1 ATS over its last three games and I think this is an 'empty the tank' spot for the Wizards at home as they check in off consecutive off days and ahead of another two-day break before they take on the Pacers in Indiana on Friday. If nothing else, Washington has shown the ability to push the pace a little bit and I think it can make Atlanta uncomfortable in this otherwise favorable spot for the Hawks. Atlanta is unlikely to perform as well defensively as it has over its last two games, in which it held New Orleans and Charlotte to 35 and 39 made field goals, respectively. Despite that latter effort, the Hawks still won by only three points at home against the Hornets on Sunday. Atlanta checks in 1-3 ATS over its last four contests. Take Washington (10*).

NFC East Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Philadelphia at 4:25 pm et on Sunday.

It's not often we see the defending Super Bowl champions enjoy the level of pointspread sucess the Eagles have so far this season. They enter this game sporting a 7-3 ATS mark and currently riding a four-game ATS winning streak. I think the latter comes to an end on Sunday in Dallas, however. The Cowboys followed up their bye week with a 33-16 rout of the Raiders in Las Vegas on Monday. It's been an up-and-down season for Dallas to be sure, in a myriad of ways. I like the revenge spot here, however, as the Cowboys look to take advantage of an Eagles team that has sputtered offensively with RB Saquon Barkley predictably struggling to regain last year's form and is sure to miss RT Lane Johnson and potentiall C Cam Jurgens as well on Sunday. The Eagles defense has carried the team but I think there's a path for the Cowboys offense to keep this game ultra-competitive on Sunday. Note that Philadelphia will be playing its third game in 14 days after consecutive down-to-the-wire affairs against tough opponents in the Packers and Lions. I do wonder whether we see a letdown against a divisional opponent it has beaten up on in recent years here. It's not often we put our money on the Cowboys, but we'll make an exception here as I like the way they're positioned grabbing points at home. Take Dallas (10*).

AFC Favorite of the Year. My selection is on Baltimore minus the points over New York at 1 pm et on Sunday.

As was somewhat expected, the Ravens had their hands full with the division-rival Browns in Cleveland last Sunday. Still, Baltimore prevailed by a 23-16 score - its fourth straight victory to get back to .500 on the season. The Ravens can't let down their guard as they have little margin for error in a competitive AFC landscape. This game sets up as a smash spot for Baltimore - on both sides of the football. The Ravens haven't played a game at home since rolling to a 30-16 victory over the Bears - with Cooper Rush at quarterback - on October 26th. The Jets have actually won two of their last three games but those victories came against the reeling Bengals and Browns. Last week, they got a reality check in a 27-14 loss in New England in a game that I don't feel was as close as the final score indicated. New York is expected to go back to journeyman Tyrod Taylor to run the offense on Sunday. I don't expect him to fare any better than Justin Fields against a Ravens defense that continues to ascend now that it's back at full strength. Off a rather sloppy performance against a terrific Browns defense last Sunday, we'll call for the Ravens to operate with precision in what turns into a rout this week. Take Baltimore (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Sacramento plus the points over Denver at 10:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Nuggets are in a difficult back-to-back situation off a big win in Houston last night. Denver has won two straight and nine of its last 10 games overall and has already handled Sacramento twice this season. I can't help but think a letdown will be in order as the Nuggets return home on Saturday. The Kings were flat-out embarrassed in their most recent game, losing by 41 points in Memphis on Thursday. That came after they had stayed competitive in an ATS victory in Oklahoma City the previous night. Losers of eight games in a row (1-7 ATS over that stretch), it's not easy to click the 'bet' button on the Kings, but we'll do so here. Take Sacramento (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Coastal Carolina plus the points over South Carolina at 4:15 pm et on Saturday.

We won with South Carolina against the spread last week as it jumped ahead with a huge lead at halftime before crumbling in the second half in a wild 31-30 loss at Texas A&M. That was a back-breaking defeat for the Gamecocks as it ensured their Bowl ineligibility with only three wins and just two games remaining in the regular season. I think South Carolina is going to have an extremely difficult time getting up for this late season non-conference affair ahead of next week's home finale against Clemson. It certainly appears that the Gamecocks are out of gas at this point. Coastal Carolina on the other hand will be up for this game off a disappointing 'upset' loss on the road against Georgia Southern last week. I don't think the Chanticleers simply want to keep things competitive in this game - as they may have felt about this contest looking ahead at the start of the season - but rather they probably believe they can put the Gamecocks on 'upset alert'. Coastal Carolina is 6-4 on the campaign so it will be going Bowling. It wraps up the regular season with a showdown against nationally-ranked James Madison next week. Even if the Chanticleers do want to keep something in the tank for that contest, I still think they can stay inside the lofty pointspread here. Take Coastal Carolina (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Brooklyn plus the points over Boston at 7:40 pm et on Friday.

The Celtics took the front half of this home-and-home set with ease on Tuesday, cruising to a 113-99 victory. It's worth noting that the Nets actually got off seven more field goal attempts and had a +6 turnover margin in that contest. They simply couldn't hit their shots, making good on just 33-of-82 field goal attempts while the Celtics connected on 37-of-75. Still, Brooklyn is 2-1-1 ATS over its last four games with no losses by more than the pointspread we're working with on Friday over that stretch. The Celtics have won a season-high three straight games and could certainly be in line for a letdown here as they open a three-game homestand that will continue with a matchup against the Magic on Sunday. Take Brooklyn (10*).

TNF Game of the Month. My selection is on Houston plus the points over Buffalo at 8:15 pm et on Thursday.

The presence of Davis Mills at quarterback for the Texans will certainly scare away a lot of potential bettors but he has actually evolved into a fairly solid backup option for Houston and is 2-0 as a starter this season. It's the Houston defense that should carry a lot of the load in this difficult Thursday night matchup. The Bills looked to me like they 'emptied the tank' in Sunday's wild home win over the Buccaneers. That game went back and forth for 60 minutes before Buffalo eventually pulled away. I certainly don't think the Bills offense will enjoy the same level of success travelling on a short week to face one of the league's best defenses in Houston. Look for the Texans offense to do just enough to at the very least take this game down to the wire. Take Houston (10*).

MAC Game of the Week. My selection is in Western Michigan minus the points over Northern Illinois at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with Northern Illinois in its rout of hapless Massachusetts last week but I won't hesitate to go the other way and fade the Huskies as they return home to host Western Michigan on Tuesday. The Broncos are 6-4 on the season and have faced a slightly more difficult schedule than the 3-7 Huskies. Western Michigan comes off a win over Ohio in its home finale last week but I don't think we'll see a letdown here as it has its sights set on a spot in the MAC Championship Game with one contest remaining on its regular season slate next week at Eastern Michigan. Northern Illinois is simply playing out the string at this point and will look ahead to its home finale on Black Friday against Kent State - a winnable game to be sure. Take Western Michigan (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Florida -1.5 goals over Vancouver at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The Canucks snapped their three-game losing streak in resounding fashion in Tampa last night. I don't think we'll see them build on that performance on Monday, however, as they wrap up a three-game southeastern road trip in Sunrise. The Panthers dropped a 3-1 decision at home against the aforementioned Lightning in a spirited affair on Saturday. They'll rebound here, noting they're 6-2-1 on home ice this season, where they've outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals per game. Take Florida -1.5 goals (10*).

NFC West Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Los Angeles at 4:05 pm et on Sunday.

We cashed a big ticket with the Rams in last week's road win and cover over the 49ers. I won't hesitate to switch gears and fade Los Angeles on Sunday, however, as they host similarly-streaking Seattle. The Seahawks, like the Rams, come off four straight victories. They weren't really tested in last week's rout of the Cardinals. There's obviously not a lot separating these two division rivals, but I do give the Seahawks the slight edge defensively and believe their offense can do enough to at least hold serve and put the Rams on 'upset' alert on Sunday afternoon. Note that while the Seahawks wide receiver room has only gotten stronger with the addition of Rashid Shaheed and the return to health of veteran Cooper Kupp (who will be facing his former team), the Rams don't boast a ton of depth and will have to move forward with DaVante Adams at less than 100% healthy by most accounts. This is a game that I think will be decided by the passing games as neither side appears willing to give an inch on the ground. Take Seattle (10*).

AFC North Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh minus the points over Cincinnati at 1 pm et on Sunday.

There's suddenly some optimism around the Bengals despite the fact that they enter this game off back-to-back losses SU and ATS and have given up a ridiculous 117 points over their last three games. Joe Burrow having his practice window opened up has a lot to do with it. Perhaps the bye week has resulted in many forgetting what they saw out of Cincinnati in that ridiculous 47-42 home loss to the Bears on November 2nd. Meanwhile, the Steelers fell to 0-3 SU and ATS in primetime games with last Sunday's ugly loss to the Chargers in Los Angeles. They figure to be bent on revenge in this particular matchup after they fell 33-31 in one of those primetime contests back on October 16th. Of note, the Steelers closed as five-point favorites on the road in that matchup. Cincinnati's defense was already dreadful and now it's without rookie pass rusher Shemar Stewart in addition to Trey Hendrickson. We know Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers can still ball when given time in the pocket and he should certainly be afforded that in spades on Sunday afternoon. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

Mountain West Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Boise State plus the points over San Diego State at 10:30 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams are coming off ugly losses last week with Boise State dropping a 30-7 decision at home against Fresno State and San Diego State getting blasted 38-6 at Hawaii. While the Aztecs own the better overall record in this matchup, the Broncos have faced the considerably more difficult schedule by most metrics. Boise State already has three losses this season so its margin for error is slim from this point forward. Note that the Broncos three previous defeats were almost a direct result of a boatload of turnovers. That's not necessarily the norm for this offense, however, and Boise State's defense has proven capable of producing takeaways when needed as well. This is always a spirited matchup and one where I feel grabbing the points is rarely a bad idea, regardless of the circumstances surround the two teams at any given point in time. Take Boise State (10*).

TV Game of the Week. My selection is on Texas plus the points over Georgia at 7:30 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams enter this game playing well with Texas having won four straight games and Georgia riding a five-game winning streak. While the Bulldogs had to travel to face Mississippi State in an eventual 41-21 win last week, Texas was idle. The last time we saw the Longhorns they held off Vanderbilt 34-31 two weeks ago, in a game that wasn't really as close as the final score indicated. Bettors have been quick to write off Texas after a sleepy start to the season and a 2-6-1 ATS mark. I think now is the time to back the Longhorns as they're simply catching too many points in this SEC showdown they'll undoubtedly get up for in Athens. Take Texas (10*).

Big Ten Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana minus the points over Wisconsin at 12 noon et on Saturday.

Wisconsin is coming off a big 'upset' win at home against Washington last week to snap its six-game slide. The Badgers are still likely going nowhere this season, unless they win out over a tough three-game stretch to end the regular season, and I think they're in the wrong place at the wrong time on Saturday. Indiana jumped ahead early but needed a late rally to hold off a game Penn State squad in Happy Valley last Saturday. I think that close call will serve as a wake-up call for the Hoosiers, who have national title aspirations under Curt Cignetti this season. Keep in mind, prior to that narrow victory, the Hoosiers had won their last two games by 50 and 45-point margins. They'll rebound in their regular season home finale on Saturday. Take Indiana (10*).

AFC East Game of the Year. My selection is on New England minus the points over New York at 8:15 pm et on Thursday.

The Jets enter this game off back-to-back wins both SU and ATS but they're the very definition of 'paper tigers'. They're banged-up at key positions and sold off pieces prior to the trade deadline. The players that are still there aren't all that happy and while a divisional matchup in primetime is easy to get up for, I don't think they can hang with the Patriots for 60 minutes. Yes, New England is in a clear letdown spot off an 'upset' win in Tampa on Sunday. However, the matchup advantages are simply too plentiful for me to ignore in this game. The Patriots enter riding a seven-game winning streak, going 6-1 ATS over that stretch. They've blown out the teams they should, winning by 29 points against Carolina, 18 points against Tennessee and 19 points against Cleveland during that stretch. I expect the Pats defense to feast in this game and for it to serve as another breakout game for rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson in front of a national audience. Aaron Glenn's Jets simply won't have the answers. Take New England (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Denver at 10:40 pm et on Wednesday.

The Nuggets had no trouble disposing of the Kings in Sacramento last night. I think they'll have a more difficult time against the Clippers in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Note that Denver is just 2-2 SU and ATS on the road this season. It enters this contest on the heels of five straight victories SU and four in a row ATS but back-to-back spots away from home are always challenging. The Clips have inexplicably dropped the cash in eight straight games. While it's too early in the season to call this a must-win game, it is getting close to desperation time as they're in danger of heading into a long seven-game road trip on a six-game slide. Look for them to step up and avoid that fate with a victory on Wednesday. Take Los Angeles (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Atlanta at 10:40 pm et on Monday.

The Clippers are reeling on the heels of four straight losses SU and seven in a row ATS. Ahead of a difficult matchup with the Nuggets, they'll be desperate to snap out of their funk on Monday against the injury-plagued Hawks. Atlanta was short-handed on Saturday but still managed to blow the doors off the Lakers at home. Of note, the Hawks have yet to post consecutive ATS victories this season. I don't like the spot here as they open a four-game western road swing on just one day of rest. Take Los Angeles (10*).

MNF Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia plus the points over Green Bay at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

I think we're looking at a 'wrong team favored' situation on Monday as the Eagles come off their bye week and travel to Green Bay to take on the Packers. Not much separates these two teams in the NFC standings. However, all records aren't created equally. Note that Green Bay has faced one of the easiest schedules in the league - arguably the easiest from Week 2 on (after a matchup with the Lions in its opener). The knee-jerk reaction might be to back the Pack in this rebound spot off last Sunday's 'upset' loss at home against the Panthers. I simply feel there are some issues that just aren't going to be fixed in the matter of a week. Losing TE Tucker Kraft certainly hurts but all in all, this is just an unfavorable matchup on both sides of the football for Green Bay. It's a pick your poison type of situation when you're facing the Eagles multi-pronged offense. Meanwhile, Philadelphia has had an extra week to scheme up a game plan on defense. The Eagles have looked like a different team since that upset loss in a Thursday nighter in New York on October 9th. Now they're incredibly fresh, playing only their third game since. Take Philadelphia (10*).

NFC West Game of the Year. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over San Francisco at 4:25 pm et on Sunday.

This game has blowout potential as injuries have severely depleted the 49ers on both sides of the football. The Rams are off a blowout win over the lowly Saints last Sunday but I don't think there's any chance of a letdown here as they head on the road to face a division rival. Los Angeles has a wealth of options to work with on offense with WR DaVante Adams giving the team even more than they probably expected, nicely complimenting legitimate superstar Puka Nacua. A shell of their former selves up front due to injury, Rams RB Kyren Williams figures to go off in this game as well. Defensively, the Rams are set to put Niners QB Mac Jones under duress all afternoon long. Last week, San Francisco scored 30+ points but that was rather misleading against a struggling Giants defense as Jones didn't even attempt to stretch the field. The Niners simply aren't built to play from behind right now with RB Christian McCaffrey the focal point of their offense. Take Los Angeles (10*).

Non-Conference Favorite of the Year. My selection is on Baltimore minus the points over Minnesota at 1 pm et on Sunday.

I have no problem fading the Vikings off their big 'upset' win on the road against division-rival Detroit last Sunday. Minnesota's offense received rave reviews following that contest yet what I saw was a quarterback in J.J. McCarthy that made some big plays but looked shaky behind a leaky offensive line. McCarthy hasn't gotten the best out of all-world WR Justin Jefferson and I expect that will continue to be the case against a quickly-ascending Ravens defense. Baltimore has had a few extra days to prepare for this matchup having not played since what amounted to a virtual walk-through against Miami a week ago Thursday. QB Lamar Jackson looked no worse for wear in his return from injury even though he wasn't asked to do much. Here, I look for the Ravens to open things up in ideal conditions at Bank of America Stadium, against an overrated Vikings defense. Take Baltimore (10*).

Non-Conference Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Denver at 9:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Nuggets could have taken it easy in the front half of a back-to-back situation last night but instead they 'emptied the tank' in a 129-104 rout of the short-handed Warriors. That game would have been a lot closer were it not for Golden State shooting a miserable 40-for-95 from the field. Indiana enters this game rested having not played since Wednesday, when it was 'upset' at home against Brooklyn. The Pacers are of course missing too many key pieces to be a true contender this season and they're off to a 1-7 start but they've at least been competitive, going 5-3 ATS and having yet to suffer consecutive ATS defeats. I do think they'll use their fresh legs to push the tempo in this matchup and it's worth noting that they have shown the ability to play some defense, limiting five of their last six opponents to 42 or fewer made field goals. The only time the Nuggets were held to 42 or less made field goals this season they were 'upset' on the road against the Trail Blazers on Halloween Night. Take Indiana (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Boston +1.5 goals over Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Bruins were written off by most when they suffered through a six-game slide in mid-October but they've responded by winning six of their last seven contests including five in a row entering Saturday's clash with the Maple Leafs in Toronto. The Leafs check in off a 5-3 win over Utah on Wednesday but they're 0-3 when factoring in the -1.5 puck-line when coming off a win by two goals or more this season. Meanwhile, the Bruins have posted an incredible 13-3 record when factoring in the +1.5-goal puck-line. Look for this one to go down to the wire at the very least. Take Boston +1.5 goals (10*).

ACC Game of the Month. My selection is on California plus the points over Louisville at 7 pm et on Saturday.

Louisville is probably feeling pretty good about itself having reeled off three straight wins including a double-digit victory on the road against Virginia Tech last Saturday. With a date against Clemson on tap on Friday, I think this is a bit of a difficult spot to get up for against reeling California. The Golden Bears have lost back-to-back games SU and four in a row ATS. We know they're capable of hanging tough on the road, however, as they beat Boston College and took Virginia Tech to double-overtime in their last two road tilts. Last week, the Bears were right there in a difficult game against a good Virginia team before a pick-six sealed their fate late in the fourth quarter in a 31-21 loss. I think we'll see Cal finally get its running game going again in this matchup and effectively shorten proceedings and keep this one within the lofty pointspread. Take California (10*).

SEC Game of the Year. My selection is on Missouri plus the points over Texas A&M at 3:30 pm et on Saturday.

While Texas A&M is firmly planted in the College Football Playoff conversation and still undefeated on the season, Missouri's bandwagon has been effectively cleared as it checks in off two losses in its last three games (following a 5-0 start). We'll grab the points with the Tigers in this spot, however, as both teams enter off their bye week on what I feel is a fairly level playing field with this game being played at Mizzou. The Tigers have been right there in their two losses, going 1-1 ATS in a three-point loss at home against Alabama and a seven-point setback at Vanderbilt. Texas A&M has faced a difficult schedule on paper but the likes of Florida and LSU haven't been as tough as expected and even Notre Dame - who it staged a big 'upset' against in South Bend early in the season - has two losses. We'll grab all the points we can get with a revenge-minded Tigers squad after suffering a 41-10 rout in College Station in last year's meeting. Take Missouri (10*).

AAC Game of the Year. My selection is on Tulane plus the points over Memphis at 9 pm et on Friday.

Tulane has faced one of the toughest schedules in the nation this season and while it enters off a 48-26 drubbing in front of a national audience at UTSA last week, it is still 6-2 and has everything to play for entering Friday's showdown with Memphis. Last year, the Tigers rolled into New Orleans and dismantled what was a tremendous Green Wave squad. I think revenge will be in order on Friday. Memphis comes off back-to-back wins both SU and ATS including last week's beatdown of Rice in a nationally-televised weeknight game. I still think the Tigers defense can be exposed and certainly give the Green Wave the edge in that department, especially off last week's embarrassing showing. We'll grab the points in this showdown, noting that the Green Wave can take solace in the fact that their schedule will finally ease up after this game, leaving this spot as a key opportunity to get rolling down the stretch. Take Tulane (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on San Antonio plus the points over Los Angeles at 10:10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Lakers are the talk of the league as they're off to a 6-2 start and riding a four-game SU and ATS winning streak entering Wednesday's contest. I expect them to get tripped up by the Spurs in this spot, however. San Antonio had its perfect start to the campaign halted with a 130-118 loss in Phoenix on Sunday. Following consecutive off days, they'll look to salvage the finale of this brief two-game road trip. We'll fade the Lakers as they come off an 'upset' win in Portland on Monday. They won that game despite missing both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Doncic is expected back on Wednesday while Reaves remains questionable. Look for San Antonio to get back to playing a 'team game' off Sunday's poor showing as they get the better of Los Angeles at Crypto.com Arena. Take San Antonio (10*).

MAC Game of the Year. My selection is on Kent State plus the points over Ball State at 7 pm et on Wednesday. 

Kent State has exceeded expectations this season, going 3-5 SU and 4-4 ATS and while it needs an incredibly strong finish the rest of the way to gain Bowl eligibility, I expect it to at least give itself a puncher's chance with an 'upset' win at Ball State on Wednesday. Save for a drubbing on the road against the class of the MAC in Toledo, the Golden Flashes have been competitive in conference play, taking Buffalo down to the wire, blasting UMass and most recently 'upsetting' Bowling Green. Ball State has managed to go 3-5 SU and 5-3 ATS. I just don't think the Cardinals have a lot of upside on either side of the football. Unlike Kent State, which has gone 3-1 ATS over its last four games, Ball State checks in 1-2 ATS over its last three contests. The Cardinals are a perfect 3-0 at home this season so the knee-jerk reaction from most bettors will probably be to lay the short number in this one. I'll go the other way and back the Golden Flashes as they're more than capable of surprising in this spot. Take Kent State (10*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York minus the points over Chicago at 7:10 pm et on Sunday.

The Knicks get a quick chance at revenge on Sunday as they return home to host the Bulls after dropping a 135-125 decision in Chicago on Friday. New York closed as a five-point favorite in that contest and is laying just two more points in this spot, despite the fact that it is 2-0 SU and ATS at home this season. Chicago is a perfect 5-0 SU and ATS but hasn't faced the most difficult schedule by any means (four of its five games have come at home). This is one of those difficult one-game trips before returning home to host the 76ers on Tuesday. Look for New York to pull away for the cover. Take New York (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Atlanta plus the points over New England at 1 pm et on Sunday.

The Patriots are 6-2 on the season but aside from their upset victory over division-rival Buffalo, who have they really beaten? They've quite simply faced one of the easiest schedules in the league. Of course, that's not their fault and all the credit to them for taking advantage, but I think there's a good chance their run ends here against Atlanta on Sunday. The Falcons were a complete no-show last Sunday at home against Miami as they were blown out by the hapless Dolphins. Note that Atlanta was without two key pieces on offense in that game, namely QB Michael Penix Jr. and WR Drake London. Both will be back on Sunday. Defensively, the Falcons are still dealing with some injuries but I don't consider the Patriots to have an elite offense capable of really punishing them. I have this as a field goal game either way but think the Falcons will be right there for the potential upset. Take Atlanta (10*).

AFC Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh plus the points over Indianapolis at 1 pm et on Sunday.

Everyone is down on the Steelers right now. After all, they're coming off consecutive losses against the Bengals and Packers with both of those games playing out in primetime on national tv. It's precisely the time we want to back them. The sky is not falling in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are still 4-3 on the campaign and I look for them to stun the red hot Colts on Sunday. Indianapolis comes off yet another blowout win with the latest coming against the lowly Titans last Sunday. Of note, the Colts will be playing outdoors for just the second time this season (I don't count SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles - where they've played twice this season - as a true outdoor venue). This will be the first time the Colts have played on natural grass this season. While Indianapolis has had a couple of tough matchups, for the most part it has been handed an easy schedule. I look for it to finally get tripped up in this spot. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

Northwest Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Portland plus the points over Denver at 10:10 pm et on Friday.

While the betting scandal circling the Trail Blazers and namely head coach Chauncey Billups could have served as a major distraction, that hasn't been the case. Instead, the Blazers have seemingly used it as fuel as they're off to a 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS start to the season and enter Friday's showdown with the Nuggets riding a two-game winning streak. Denver dominated wire-to-wire against the Pelicans two nights ago, marking its third straight victory both SU and ATS. While there's no denying the Nuggets are an elite team, I simply feel they're laying too many points on the road against an upstart Blazers team. Portland certainly hasn't backed down in two previous home games against seemingly superior opponents, taking the Timberwolves down to the wire in a four-point loss and beating the Warriors by 20. This is one of those difficult one-game road trips for the Nuggets as they'll look ahead to two days off before beginning a four-game homestand on Monday against Sacramento. Take Portland (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Denver at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Pelicans fell to 0-3 on the season with a blowout loss at home against the Celtics on Monday. It's easy to forget that New Orleans was competitive in its first two games - a six-point road loss against the Grizzlies and a four-point overtime setback at home against the Spurs. Of course, Zion Williamson's absence played a factor on Monday. He's questionable for Wednesday's game but did get in a limited practice on Tuesday. I do think his potential absence is being properly factored into this line. The Nuggets are 2-1 after posting a double-digit win in Minnesota on Monday. They've reeled off back-to-back ATS victories since opening the campaign with an overtime loss at Golden State. I think a letdown could be in order in this spot as they return home before heading back on the road for a one-game jaunt to Portland on Friday. Take New Orleans (10*).

World Series Game of the Year. My selection is on Toronto +1.5 runs over Los Angeles at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

This is obviously a critical game for the Dodgers as they look to avoid facing elimination with the series shifting to Toronto for Game 6 (and a potential Game 7). With that said, I think the line is out of whack and will take advantage by grabbing the insurance run with the Blue Jays at a very reasonable price. Blake Snell starts for the Dodgers. While he has pitched well in the postseason, the Jays did reach him for five earned runs on eight hits over five innings in Game 1 of this series. I don't think this is a particularly good matchup for Snell as the Jays are patient at the plate and command has been an issue for the veteran left-hander throughout his career. In short, Toronto will make Snell work. Of note, the Dodgers are just 5-10 in Snell's 15 starts this season when factoring in the -1.5 run-line. This is a huge moment for Jays rookie starter Trey Yesavage. This might be the biggest start he ever makes in a big league uniform, even if it is only his eighth career outing. In four postseason starts he has recorded a 3.40 FIP and 1.26 WHIP. It's advantage Toronto as far as the bullpens go. In this series, the Jays 'pen has posted a 3.04 ERA and 1.39 WHIP while the Dodgers relief corps has logged a 4.19 ERA and 1.55 WHIP. Take Toronto +1.5 runs (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Warriors rolled to a double-digit home win over the Grizzlies last night as they shot the lights out (44-of-83 from the field). It's advantage Clippers on Tuesday, however, as Los Angeles is ready and waiting after having Monday off. The Clips won but failed to cover in Sunday's home win over the Trail Blazers. They've been getting better defensively with each passing game, allowing just 37 and 34 made field goals since getting blasted in their season-opener at Utah. Note that Golden State has allowed all four opponents to connect on 40 or more field goals this season. The Warriors aren't affording themselves a ton of scoring opportunities, hoisting up 83 or fewer field goal attempts in three of four games (the other went to overtime against Denver). While Golden State will have tomorrow off before a two-game road trip, Los Angeles will be idle until Friday's home game against New Orleans so I expect the visitors to 'empty the chamber' in this one. Take Los Angeles (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington plus the points over Kansas City at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

The Chiefs steamrolled the Raiders while the Commanders had their lunch handed to them by the division rival Cowboys last Sunday. So the knee-jerk reaction might be to lay the points with Kansas City on Monday night, especially considering the Commanders will be without QB Jayden Daniels. Instead, we'll grab the generous helping of points with Washington. Backup QB Marcus Mariota has proven capable of steering the offense in the right direction. He was thrust in a tough situation last Sunday as the Commanders got off to a difficult start against Dallas. Game script worked against him to be sure. Here, I think there's a path for the Commanders to churn out some long, clock-eating drives in an effort to keep the Chiefs prolific offense off the field. Kansas City is rolling right now but I see this as a potential flat spot against a non-conference opponent. Take Washington (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Houston minus the points over Brooklyn at 8:10 pm et on Monday.

This game has blowout potential as the 0-2 Rockets host the Nets on Monday in Houston. Brooklyn is coming off a hard-fought 118-107 loss in San Antonio yesterday to fall to 0-3 SU on the season. There will be spots to make money backing the Nets as sizeable underdogs this season but I don't think this is one of them. Houston should bring a sharp focus into this contest off an 'upset' loss at home against the Pistons on Friday. Note that the Rockets will head on the road for consecutive games following tonight's affair. Look for them to treat this game as an opportunity to 'get right' ahead of that brief jaunt. Take Houston (10*).

NFC East Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over New York at 1 pm et on Sunday.

Revenge has to be on the Eagles minds after they dropped a stunning 'upset' decision in blowout fashion in the Meadowlands a couple of weeks ago. Last Sunday, Philadelphia bounced back with a critical road win in Minnesota and we were along for the ride, cashing our ticket on the Eagles. Here, the Eagles are set up to smash against a down-trodden Giants defense that isn't getting any healthier. New York had last week's game set up on a platter leading big in the fourth quarter in Denver but couldn't close it out, due in large part to its matador-like defense. While the Giants do have some upside offensively with rookie QB Jaxson Dart performing admirably, the Eagles have the benefit of facing him twice in short order and they're sure to play with a chip on their shoulder after getting lit up by New York last time around. No A.J. Brown for the Eagles in this one but that's not overly concerning as he hasn't been the dominant force we've become accustomed to seeing so far this season. Take Philadelphia (10*).

MAC Game of the Month. My selection is on Central Michigan minus the points over UMass at 3:30 pm et on Saturday.

Central Michigan can breathe a sigh of relief after posting a 27-6 win at Bowling Green last week, successfully bouncing back from an ugly 'upset' loss at Akron the game previous. The Chippewas are 4-3 SU and ATS on the season and have everything in front of them with a very manageable remaining schedule. UMass is one of the nation's weakest teams but does come off an ATS win in a hard-fought 28-21 loss at Buffalo last week. The Minutemen are 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS on the campaign. They had scored just 22 points over a four-game stretch prior to putting up 21 points against the Bulls last week. Don't count on a repeat performance against a tough Chips defense that has allowed 14 points or less in four of seven contests this season. Take Central Michigan (10*).

Mountain West Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Nevada plus the points over Boise State at 10 pm et on Friday.

Boise State opened the season with a stunning (at the time) 'upset' loss on the road against South Florida. Since then, the Broncos have gone 5-1 SU and 6-0 ATS including a dominant 56-31 win over a good UNLV squad at home on Saturday. We'll call for Boise State's extended ATS winning streak to come to an end on Friday, however, as I feel it is laying too many points on the road against Nevada. The Wolf Pack are a woeful 1-6 on the campaign but have shown some life lately, going 2-1 ATS over their last three games including a narrow 24-22 loss as a near-two touchdown underdog at New Mexico on Saturday. They're not going to be going bowling this season, at least it doesn't look that way given their upcoming schedule, so this amounts to one of their biggest games remaining on the schedule. Keep in mind, Nevada will also be heading into its bye week so it is likely to 'leave it all on the field' in this matchup. We'll grab the points in a game that I think will be closer than expected. Take Nevada (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Boston plus the points over New York at 7:40 pm et on Friday.

The Celtics let the 76ers off the hook on Wednesday as they led most of the way in the second half but couldn't make good on their opportunities late in a 117-116 'upset' loss. We'll back Boston as it looks to rebound against division-rival New York on Friday. The Knicks are fresh off an 'upset' win at home against the Cavaliers on Wednesday. Of note, New York made good on just 37 field goals in that victory so the 119-111 final score was a bit misleading. Boston figures to lean on its defense in the early going this season until it figures out its identity on offense without Jayson Tatum. Note that the C's held the Sixers to 39 made field goals in their season-opener. Look for this one to go down to the wire at the very least. Take Boston (10*).

AFC Game of the Month. My selection is on Indianapolis plus the points over Los Angeles at 4:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Colts will make their second trip to Los Angeles in less than a month as they face the Chargers on Sunday. Their first trip didn't go so well as they dropped a 27-20 decision against the Rams. Of course, that was a hard luck loss with Los Angeles prevailing on a late touchdown (after a Colts defender wiped out and blew the coverage). The Colts got a scare at home against a short-handed Cardinals team last week and I'm sure that helped amp up their preparation for this in-conference clash. The Chargers are dealing with a number of key injuries and only managed to survive in a narrow win in Miami last Sunday. They're just 1-2 SU and 0-3 ATS over their last three games. I don't envision Los Angeles stopping Indianapolis' offense very often on Sunday and I'm not convinced Justin Herbert can elevate the talent around him quite enough to secure a win in this spot. Take Indianapolis (10*).

TNF Game of the Month. My selection is on Cincinnati plus the points over Pittsburgh at 8:15 pm et on Thursday.

The Steelers enter this game red hot off three straight wins both SU and ATS. I think they'll be hard-pressed to win by margin no Thursday, however, as they head to Cincinnati for this divisional affair. The Bengals showed me enough good things on Sunday in Green Bay to warrant backing them on a short week. I don't think this is a team that has quit on the season, even on the heels of four straight losses. The fact that they went out and got veteran QB Joe Flacco shows that they still want to fight and what better way to prove that than in front of a national audience in this division game against the red hot Steelers? I think Pittsburgh was made to look more dominant than it actually is in Sunday's 23-9 rout of the lifeless Browns. Cleveland didn't show up for that game and ultimately ended up playing from behind virtually wire-to-wire. I expect a different story to unfold here as the Bengals return home with renewed confidence off Sunday's reasonably close game in Green Bay. The last time the Bengals played in front of their home fans they were boat-raced by a vastly superior Lions squad. Look for them to make amends in this spot. Take Cincinnati (10*).

AAC Game of the Month. My selection is on East Carolina minus the points over Tulsa at 7:30 pm et on Thursday.

Tulsa carries a favorable reputation after it 'upset' Oklahoma State on the road in a nationally-televised primetime affair on September 19th. The reality is, this is a team that continues to try to rebuild and checks in just 2-4 on the campaign with the other victory coming against FCS squad Abilene Christian way back in Week 1. Over the last two games, the Golden Hurricane have been outscored 76-21 in losses (both SU and ATS) to Tulane and Memphis. East Carolina is coming off a hard-fought 26-19 road loss against Tulane last Thursday. The Pirates have yet to drop the cash in consecutive games this season, going 4-1-1 ATS. They have a lot more experience than the Golden Hurricane, and also boast superior talent in my opinion. Look for ECU to eventually pull away in this one. Take East Carolina (10*).

Conference-USA Game of the Week. My selection is on Sam Houston State plus the points over UTEP at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

This line is a little perplexing to me. Only one game separates these two down-trodden teams with UTEP holding a slight edge at 1-5 on the campaign. That lone victory came against an FCS opponent in Tennessee Martin back in Week 2. The Miners enter this contest riding a four-game SU and three-game ATS losing streak. Sam Houston State has faced one of the most difficult schedules in the country so far this season and checks in 0-6 SU. It did manage to deliver its first ATS win of the campaign last week, dropping a narrow two-point decision against Jacksonville State. After this game, the Bearkats will go on the road for back-to-back contests so they could be looking at mid-November before they can realistically notch a win if they fail to do so on Wednesday. Look for them to take advantage of this rare winnable game. Take Sam Houston State (10*).

AFC North Game of the Year. My selection is on Cleveland plus the points over Pittsburgh at 1 pm et on Sunday.

I saw plenty of bettors lining up to back the Browns catching just north of a field goal against the Vikings in London last week. Cleveland nearly won that game but ultimately fell on a last-minute touchdown, failing to cover the spread in the process. Here, no one wants any part of betting the Browns, not with it returning to the USA following that London trip and facing a rested Steelers team coming off its bye week. I think Cleveland is capable of hanging with anyone thanks to its defense, however, and this game should be no exception. Yes, the Steelers have looked good in recording consecutive wins over the Patriots and Vikings. They're suddenly the 'hunted' rather than the 'hunters' in the AFC North as they lead the way with a 3-2 mark. Given the state of the rest of the division it would be easy for Pittsburgh to get ahead of itself right now. Cleveland's offense got a bit of a spark from rookie QB Dillon Gabriel last week. There's really nowhere to go but up after Joe Flacco was ineffective and has since been dealt to the Bengals. This play is about as contrarian as it gets this week. Look for the Browns to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Cleveland (10*).

Sun Belt Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Texas State minus the points over Troy at 8 pm et on Saturday.

Troy has to be feeling pretty good about itself after delivering consecutive 'upset' wins over Buffalo and South Alabama. I think we'll see the Trojans run into a roadblock on Saturday, however, as they travel to face Texas State. The Bobcats lost outright as near two-touchdown favorites at Arkansas State last Saturday. That marked their third straight ATS defeat. I certainly feel they're a better team than they've shown lately and see this as a terrific 'get right' spot against a Troy squad they handled easily 38-17, on the road no less, last year. Take Texas State (10*).

Finals Game of the Year. My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Aces dominated the first two games of this WNBA Finals series on their home floor, capped by a double-digit blowout win on Sunday. While Las Vegas has looked nearly flawless to this point, I expect a strong response from the Mercury as the series shifts to Phoenix. With a couple of days to regroup and make adjustments, the Mercury are in a good position to build some positive momentum at home.

Phoenix showed it can compete with Las Vegas in the opener, falling by just three points, and the familiarity of its home court should allow it to establish rhythm early. The Mercury have too much pride — and too much offensive talent — to go quietly in this spot. This is a virtual must-win in the first-ever best-of-seven Finals format, and I look for Phoenix to deliver its best effort of the postseason.

While Las Vegas has been in dominant form, sustaining that level of play on the road is never easy, especially against a Phoenix team that feeds off the energy of its home crowd. Expect the Mercury to tighten things up defensively, control tempo, and use their experience to take advantage of a letdown opportunity for the Aces.

Take Phoenix minus the points.