Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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03-01-21 | Florida International +17.5 v. Western Kentucky | Top | 59-71 | Win | 100 | 5 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: Clearly WKU is the better team. The Hilltoppers are 16-5, but I don't think they're going to be able to cover this large spread. The FIU Panthers are 9-15. FIU won't be lacking for motivation after losing six in a row. The Panthers average 74.9 PPG, and they allow 76. The pick: WKU comes in complacent here after winning seven of its last eight, including a 91-58 blowout victory over FIU in its last outing. Winning can lead to complacency (especially at the Collegiate level), and that's what I'm expecting here. With a final home series vs. fourth place ODU up next, this also sets up as a "look-ahead" spot for the home side. I like FIU to keep this one a lot closer than what this spread would suggest. This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on Florida International. |
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02-28-21 | Nevada v. Utah State -8 | Top | 66-87 | Win | 100 | 27 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: The Aggies took the first game on Friday night by a score of 75-72. This is a battle between the third and fifth ranked teams. This game means much more to Utah State at this point though, because its still currently on the outside of the NCAA Tournament looking in. Utah State has already moved into third though after Boise State lost to SDSU. Utah State needs to win its last three games and it has a chance to run down Colorado State still. The pick: Nevada played well and covered two nights ago, but previous to that it hadn't played since early February due to COVID issues. I think the Wolfpack get caught flat-footed here now in this second contest and vs. this determined home side. Nevada gave its best shot and came up short last time out and with a chance to end their Tournament hopes, I like the Aggies to find a way to deliver the goods. This is a 10* ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION on Utah State. |
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02-27-21 | Charlotte +5 v. UTEP | Top | 47-70 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: The 49ers are third in the Conference USA and 47th in the country in scoring defense, limiting their opposition to just 64.9 PPG. Charlotte is also proficient from the charity stripe, ranked third in the conference. Charlotte took both meetings last year, this is the first this season. However note that the 49ers lost to UTEP 57-53 the last time these teams played in El Paso back in 2019, so the visiting side won't be taking anything for granted. The pick: The Miners are 10-10 overall and 6-8 in league play. UTEP averages 71 PPG, and it allows 69.6. Note though that Charlotte has done extremely well in this spot for bettors, going 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games as an underdog in the +4.5 to +6.5 points range. This one is going to come down to the final moments, so I'm grabbing the points. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Charlotte. |
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02-26-21 | Clippers -6 v. Grizzlies | Top | 119-99 | Win | 100 | 12 h 0 m | Show |
The set-up: No need to overthink this one. These teams played just last night and the Grizzlies managed the outright win as 8.5 point underdogs. Coming into that contest the Clippers had been on quite the run, but they still have a chance to catch the idle Lakers, who have been struggling without big man AD in the lineup. Now this line has dropped a couple points and the "better" team in this matchup plays with revenge and has all the motivation it now needs to bounce back and crush the Grizzlies. The pick: Memphis had been on an extended losing streak leading up to that point and it played with revenge as well. With both those motivational factors now out of the way, an immediate return to mediocrity is imminent in my opinion. I look for the visiting side to make a quick and immediate response in this bounce-back revenge scenario. Lay the points. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the LA Clippers. |
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02-25-21 | Oilers v. Canucks +1.5 | 3-0 | Loss | -210 | 30 h 27 m | Show | |
The set-up: I'm going to lay the steeper price for the extra goal and a half of insurance. Is Vancouver the "hungrier" team in this fight? Without question in my opinion. The Canucks offense has been decent, but inconsistencies in net and in the backend have seen Vancouver take a major step back this season. That said, the Canucks are for sure the "hungrier" team in this fight after losing three in a row including a 4-3 OT loss at home to Winnipeg, before the 4-3 loss to these very Oilers two nights ago. It's an extended break after this as well for the Canucks, as they don't play again till March 1st in Winnipeg. Suffice it to say, I expect them to come out extremely prepared here. The pick: Edmonton is going to finally get caught a little complacent here my estimation. The Oilers have won four in a row, and with a much more high-profile series against the Leafs at home on Saturday, this is definitely a "look ahead" spot as well for the visiting side. In a contest which I see being decided late or in extra time, let's lay the chalk for the 1.5 goals. This is a 6* BIG-CHALK PUCK-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Vancouver Canucks. |
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02-25-21 | Wizards v. Nuggets -7 | Top | 112-110 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 30 m | Show |
The set-up: I like Denver here. Washington had won five in a row, before a blowout loss to the Clippers in its last outing. This will be the Wizards fourth and final game of their road trip, and with a much "easier" game at home vs. Minnesota on Saturday, there's no doubt that this one sets up as a classic "let-down/look-ahead" spot as well. The pick: The Nuggets have last two straight against the spread, falling 123-115 at Atlanta as 2.5 point favorites, before then beating Portland 111-106 at home in their last outing, unable to cover the 6 point spread. After this game though the Nuggets hit the road for an extended five-game trip, so that definitely puts added importance onto tonight's contest for the home side here. Finally note that the Nugs play with revenge as well after falling 130-128 in the Nation's capital in mid February as 2.5 point favorites. This one has ATS "B-L-O-W-O-U-T" written all over it. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Denver Nuggets. |
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02-25-21 | Miami-OH -5 v. Western Michigan | Top | 74-66 | Win | 100 | 20 h 19 m | Show |
The set-up: Miami Ohio has won two straight and I like the Red Hawks to continue to push hard with the end of the regular season just around the corner. WMU though enters having lost two in a row. WMU has had three of its last five games postponed due to COVID, and teams having to deal with these issues have almost always struggled in every circumstance. The Broncos only average 63.5 PPG. The pick: WMU lost to Miami Ohio a few weeks ago and only managed 56 points in that one. Miami Ohio comes to town off its best game of the entire seaosn as well, smoking Central Michigan 96-54. Finally note that WMU is just 1-5 ATS in its last six home games vs. a team with a losing road record, while Miami Ohio is 3-1-1 ATS in its last five vs. a team with a losing straight-up record. Lay the points, expect a comfortable cover. This is a 10* MAC DESTRUCTION on Miami Ohio. |
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02-24-21 | Hornets +9.5 v. Suns | Top | 124-121 | Win | 100 | 14 h 58 m | Show |
The set-up: The Hornets are off a 132-110 loss at Utah, but I think they'll keep tonight's contest much closer. Outright victory? It's possible, but in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. Phoenix has won three straight, scoring 132-, 128 and 132 points in the process, most recently blasting Portland 132-100. But with a three-game road trip up next, starting in Chicago, and ending at the Lakers, this definitely sets up as a "look ahead" spot for Phoenix. The pick: Charlotte has been alternating against the spread wins and losses over its last six games and that pattern is going to continue here. The Hornets have a difficult schedule before the All Star game, finising out the remainder with every game on the road, so this is a team which can't afford to look past any body or anything at this point. The Hornets are 6-0 ATS in their last six following a loss of more than ten points as well. Grab the points. This is a 10* SHOCKER OF THE MONTH on the Charlotte Hornets. |
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02-24-21 | South Carolina +5.5 v. Mississippi State | Top | 48-69 | Loss | -105 | 27 h 10 m | Show |
The set-up: I like betting on motivated teams. There's only a handful of games remaining in the regualr season and South Carolina will be eager to snap a five-game slide. Most recently the Gamecocks enter off a 93-78 home loss to Missouri as 3.5 point underdogs. This is also a revenge game for South Carolina, which lost 75-59 in Columbia as a 2.5 point underdog back on February 6th. Ovearll South Carolina averages 74.2 PPG, while allowing 78.4. The pick: Mississippi State is going to get caught complacent here, as it just revenged an earlier loss to rival Ole Miss in its last outing. Teh Bulldogs average only 70.1 PPG, while allowing 66.4. I think the home side comes out flat here after its big win and I think the hungrier revenge minded visiting team will at the very least, keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door. Grab the poins. This is a 10* REVENGE ELITE OF THE ELITE on South Carolina. |
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02-23-21 | Georgia Tech v. Virginia Tech -2.5 | Top | 69-53 | Loss | -105 | 27 h 27 m | Show |
The set-up: The Hokies are coming off an OT win at Miami, and after surviving that near disaster, I like them to come in focussed here vs. this dangerous Georgia Tech side. Virginia Tech hasn't playes since February 9th, but it's desperate for a win here. Georiga Tech has been playing well against some good teams, but it keeps coming up short. Overall the Jackets allow 67.2 PPG. The pick: Virginia Tech is dealing with a couple injuries, but with so much time off to prepare, I don't see this being an issue at all. I think Georgia Tech is primed for a letdown here vs. a desperate Hokies side. These teams haven't played this year, but VT does play with revenge as well after falling 76-57 to the Jackets last season. I'm laying the short points, but expecting a major blowout! This is a 10* ACC GAME OF THE MONTH on Virginia Tech. |
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02-22-21 | Wizards +6.5 v. Lakers | Top | 127-124 | Win | 100 | 29 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: The Lakers have been struggling a bit without Antony Davis in the line-up. LeBron James has recently vowed to find a way to bridge the gap and fill the void until he returns, but easier said than done in my opinion. Washington on the other hand comes to town finally playing its best basketball of the year and there's no way this visiting side will take the foot off the gas. Russell Westbrook has worked hard and finally found some chemistry with Bradley Beal, as the Wizards have won four straight SU/ATS, including over some pretty big name teams. The pick: Scheduling wise it favors Washington as well, as the Wiz will lay everything on the line here as they have a game tomorrow night at the Clippers. The Lakers on the other hand are in prime "look-ahead" territory with a road game at West leading Utah up next on Wednesday. A currently red hot team, facing an injured defending champion side which can't help itself looking ahead to its much more important conference matchup up next. This one actually has outright upset written all over it, but let's grab up all these points! This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Washington Wizards. |
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02-22-21 | Texas Tech -1 v. Oklahoma State | Top | 69-74 | Loss | -119 | 28 h 58 m | Show |
The set-up: They say revenge is a dish best served cold. Oklahoma State won this game by eight points on the road as an 8.5 point underdog in mid January. The Red Raiders are still ranked, but after back-to-back losses, this is now a "must win" game. The Red Raiders average 73.6 PPG, while allowing 62.9. The Cowboys are primed for a letdown here after winning five of their last six. Oklahoma State averages 75.8 PPG, while allowing 70.6. The pick: Texas Tech is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge an in-season home loss of five or more points to an opponent as well. Texas Tech's defense, combined with the stellar play of Mac McClung is the difference-maker. Lay the points. This is a 10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST on Texas Tech. |
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02-21-21 | Maryland +4.5 v. Rutgers | Top | 68-59 | Win | 100 | 22 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: The Terrapins are on the road to face Rutgers, and they come to town on top form, having won three straight, most recently getting the better of Nebraska 79-71. The Scarlet Knights are ahead of the Terps in the standings, but they come in off a 71-64 road loss at Michigan. Maryland's defense has been great though this season, allowing just 65.6 PPG this year. Rutgers hasn't been quite as stout, allowing 68.1 PPG. The pick: Rutgers does have the rebounding advantage, and it produces more steals per game, but note that it's just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after scoring 65 points or less in a SU road loss in its last outing. In a contest which I see being decided by whichever of these team's has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points. This is a 10* BLOWOUT DESTRUCTION on Maryland. |
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02-20-21 | Texas Tech +2 v. Kansas | Top | 61-67 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 3 m | Show |
The set-up: Kansas is now 16-7 after its 59-41 win over K-State on Wednesday. Texas Tech returns to action after an 82-71 loss to WVU on February 9th to fall to 14-6 overall. It was a tough loss for the Red Raiders, who had two games postponed. Not due to COVID issues though, but rather weather related. Because of this, I think it in fact works in favor of Texas Tech. Overall Texas Tech averages 74.2 PPG, while allowing 62.7. The pick: The Jayhawks average 74 PPG, while allowing 66.2. Kansas is coming off the satisfying win over its rival and note that it's only 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. teams with winning records. Also note that the road team is 5-2 ATS in its last seven head-to-head meetings. Four of the Jayhawks last five wins have come against bottom feeders. Expect the Red Raiders to pull off the minor upset here, but grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on Texas Tech. |
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02-19-21 | Panthers v. Red Wings +1.5 | 7-2 | Loss | -163 | 25 h 46 m | Show | |
The set-up: The Panthers have been good, they're coming off a 6-4 win over Tampa and then a 4-3 OT win over Carolina. The Wings have struggled all year, but they won't be lacking for motivation here as they try to break a two-game slide. I like betting on motivated teams and I like going against teams that I view as possibly being complacent. Would anyone fault the Panthers for having a bit of a letdown here after back-to-back epic wins and facing the worst team in the NHL? The pick: Detroit has lost nine of the last ten in this series as well, so the big time revenge factor comes into play here as well. In a contest which I see being decided late or even in extra time, I'm going to recommend laying the price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance. This is an 8* PUCK-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Red Wings. |
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02-19-21 | Cleveland State v. IUPU Ft Wayne +5 | Top | 68-75 | Win | 100 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: Cleveland State is 15-6 and IPFW is 6-13. The Mastadons play their final two regular season games here and I like them to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. The Mastadons had lost eight straight against the spread before their 72-70 loss to Youngstown State last time out, proving that they're still trying to post victories here at the end of the season and remain competitive. The pick: These teams played twice at Cleveland State earlier in the year and the Vikings won both games. Both games were competitive though, 63-61 and 89-80. I expect another battle until the end, meaning I'll definitely be grabbing as many points as I can! This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Purdue Fort Wayne. |
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02-18-21 | Raptors v. Bucks -6.5 | Top | 110-96 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 56 m | Show |
The set-up: I'm all about picking "spots." Here's a good one for Milwaukee in my opinion. The Bucks have issues this year, but they play with immediate revenge after losing here to the Raptors 124-113 two nights ago. That was the Bucks fourth straight SU/ATS loss in a row and suffice it to say, I expect Milwaukee to hit the panic button and play with extreme desperation here as it tries to break the slide. OKC is in town tomorrow night, but the Bucks won't be looking past Eastern rival Toronto obviously. The pick: With a game at Minnesota tomorrow though, the Raptors could easily be caught looking ahead to that much more "winnable" game, content with having already earned a hard-fought split against the Bucks. From a situational stand-point, it definitely is a great play on the Bucks here in my opinion. But also note, Milwaukee is 7-1 ATS in its last eight in trying to revenge a home loss vs. an opponent in which it allowed 120 or more points in. I'm laying the points and expecting a major blowout. This is a 10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST on the Bucks. |
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02-17-21 | Knicks v. Magic +4 | Top | 89-107 | Win | 100 | 12 h 27 m | Show |
The set-up: New York is playing well, as it enters on a three-game win streak. The Knicks are needing massive games every night from Julius Randle to pull these out though and I think he and the rest of the visiting side are in for a bit of a letdown on the road here finally. The pick: The Magic on the other hand are out to bounce back at home here off a 19 point road loss to the Suns. Previous to that they broke a slide with a win at Sacramento. This is a revenge game for the Magic as well after they lost by seven in The Big Apple in mid January. New York only shot 36 percent in that victory as well, but got another big game from Randle. However, as I stated above, I can't see that happening again here and especially now that the Knicks are hitting the road. Note that the Magics are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after losing by 15 or more points SU/ATS on the road in their last outing as well. I'm grabbing the points. This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Orlando Magic. |
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02-16-21 | Nuggets v. Celtics -3 | Top | 99-112 | Win | 100 | 12 h 23 m | Show |
The set-up: I think this one sets up well from a situational stand point for Boston. In this season of "COVID," situational handicapping has become very useful in certain...situations. Denver is coming off a big home win over the Lakers and it has a game at Washington tomorrow night. The Celtics have lost three in a row and are desperate for a victory before Atlanta comes to town for a two-game set, starting tomorrow night. One of these teams is desperate, the other is very content. The pick: Additionally note that the C's are 7-2 ATS in their last nine non-conference home games following a three games or longer SU losing streak. I'm expecting a blowout once the final horn sounds, so lay the points with confidence. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Celtics. |
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02-16-21 | Austin Peay v. SE Missouri State +6.5 | Top | 81-86 | Win | 100 | 26 h 58 m | Show |
The set-up: Austin Peay is 13-8, while Southeast Missouri State is 7-14. These teams played at Austin Peay a few nights ago and the Governors hammered the Redhawks 78-63. But with a game at 17-5 Eastern Kentucky up next, I think the visiting side will have a much more difficult time duplicating its offensive performance against this revenge-minded SE Missouri State team on the road. After winning five of seven, and with the upcoming two-game series vs. Eastern Kentucky, this one sets up as a trap for the visitors. The pick: The Redhawks are the "hungrier" side here, as they look to snap a three-game losing streak. The Governors are the deeper, more experienced team, but this situation favors the home side. I'll stop short in predicting an outright upset, but everything points to this one coming right down to the wire. This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on SE Missouri State. |
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02-15-21 | Virginia v. Florida State -1 | Top | 60-81 | Win | 100 | 26 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: Virginia sits atop the conference after taking out UNC 60-48 at 11-1 thus far. Florida State enters of a momentum-building 92-85 OT win over Wake Forest and it's now 11-3 overall and 7-2 in ACC action. The Cavaliers of course get the job done with their smothering defensive play (58.8 per contest conceded), as they enter averaging 69.9 PPG. The pick: The Seminoles average 79.1 PPG, while conceding just 69.4. This is a team which likes to get down and dirty defensively as well, but it's their up-tempo pace on offense which I think UVA will have difficulties matching. Especially on the road. Yes, this is a much-improved UVA team, one of the best that FSU has seen all year. But the said can also be said for the Cavaliers, on the road facing an underrated and dangerous FSU side. I'm going with FSU to win at home in this one. This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Florida State. |
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02-14-21 | Oregon State v. Arizona State -5.5 | Top | 73-75 | Loss | -115 | 26 h 21 m | Show |
The set-up: This is a revenge game for ASU after it fell 80-79 at Oregon State in the final moments. Oregon State though is just 10-9 overall with a 6-7 league record, entering this one on a two-game slide, most recently falling 70-61 on the road to the Arizona Wildcats. Arizona State is only 6-9 overall and 3-6 in conference play. Most recently the Sun Devils lost 75-64 to Oregon on Thursday. The pick: Overall these teams numbers are very similar. ASU's offense is slightly better and Oregon State's defense is a little better. The back-to-back road games isn't doing Oregon State any favors though. Home floor, combined with the revenge factor (note that ASU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge an in-season road loss to an opponent in which it allowed 80 or more points in. Lay the points, expect a blowout. This is a 10* PLAYBOOK on Arizona State. |
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02-14-21 | Miami-FL +7 v. Notre Dame | 61-71 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 22 m | Show | |
The set-up: These are two poor teams, but I think this one will be decided by whichever side has its hands on the ball last. Miami is 7-11 overall and 3-10 in league play. Most recently it lost 80-76 to Virginia Tech. However, a postponement in its game vs. UNC on Monday will be beneficial for sure in my opinion for the Hurricanes, who get an extra couple days off to focus and prepare to take advantage. The pick: The Irish are just 8-10 overall and 5-7 in conference action. Notre Dame looks primed for a letdown here as well after a 93-89 win over Duke on Tuesday. Neither team will qualify for the Big Dance, so motivation in that respect simply isn't there for either of these team's right now. Miami has had to deal with plenty of injury issues, but it plays with revenge here after falling 73-59 at home to the Irish earlier in the season. I think Notre Dame gets caught flat-footed after its big win from last time out and I like the hungrier Hurricanes to keep this one interesting down the stretch. Grab the points. This is an 8* ACC DESTRUCTION on Miami. |
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02-13-21 | UNLV +9.5 v. Boise State | Top | 59-61 | Win | 100 | 29 h 7 m | Show |
The set-up: It's an immediate revenge scenario for lowly UNLV, which lost 78-66 to the Broncos on Thursday. I expect a tighter contest here and while I'll stop short in calling for an outright upset, everything points to this one coming right down to the wire in my opinion. Bryce Hamilton is a matchup issue for any team. If Hamilton can get any type of support, the Rebels have a legitimate shot at winning this game outright (he finished with 26 points on Thursday.) Overall UNLV allows just 68.1 PPG. The pick: The Broconos average 78.4 PPG. They shot 50 percent in the win on Thursday. Boise State previous to this series lost two straight to Nevada, while splitting with Colorado. Consistency from game-to-game has been an issue of late for Boise State and I think that pattern continues here. Again, I don't think it'll have such a huge collapse here that it loses outright, but I do think the this line is inflated. Expect the hungrier team to keep this one interesting down the stretch and grab the points. This is a 10* MOUNTAIN-WEST GAME OF THE MONTH on UNLV. |
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02-13-21 | Northeastern v. Towson +4 | 76-67 | Loss | -105 | 21 h 47 m | Show | |
The set-up: While the outright victory is obviously not out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. Northeastern comes to town on a seven-game win streak and in first place. Towson is on a seven-game losing streak. Northeastern is 10-4 ATS this year, but I think it's asking too much to cover his mid-sized spread on the road vs. this super hungry and motivated home side. The Huskies aren't great offensively, but they make up for it on the other end by conceding just 68.6 PPG. Towson allows 76.5. The pick: The Tigers are a really good rebounding team and they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine after five or more SU/ATS losses in a row. The Huskies are the better team this year, but I think they'll have their hands full until the final moments. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Towson. |
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02-12-21 | UC San Diego +9.5 v. CS Bakersfield | 71-76 | Win | 100 | 26 h 48 m | Show | |
The set-up: San Diego is 4-5 so far, while Cal State Bakersfield is 12-7. These teams offensive and defensive numbers aren't drastically different. I just think that it sets up well for San Diego, as it's 5-1 ATS in its last six after posting 100 or more points in a SU home victory in its last outing (won 101-64 over Bethesda.) The pick: The Roadrunners are going to be caught looking ahead to a two-game road set at Conference leading UC Santa Barbara and the hungry Tritons are going to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on San Diego. |
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02-11-21 | Pacers v. Pistons +4 | Top | 111-95 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: The Pacers are 11-12 and they're on a four-game losing streak after falling 104-94 to the Nets just last night. The Pistons won't be lacking for motivation here, they're 6-18 and coming off a 122-111 win over Brooklyn on Tuesday. Indiana has struggled defensively this year, conceding 111.9 PPG. In the second game of the back-to-back, I think they'll have their hands full here with this hungry home side. The pick: Detroit hasn't been much worse defensively, allowing 113.5. Indiana has started to slide and playing the second game of the back to back on the road against a desperate Detroit team is not what the doctor ordered to get back on track in my estimation. The Pistons and Jerami Grant have an opportunity here to win this one outright as they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine after scoring 120 or more points in a SU/ATS victory in their last outing. I'm grabbing the points, but would not be shocked by an outright upset. This is a 10* UNDERDOG GAME OF THE YEAR on the Detroit Pistons. |
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02-11-21 | Weber State v. Montana +1.5 | Top | 67-80 | Win | 100 | 26 h 34 m | Show |
The set-up: All six of Montana's Big Sky losses have been decided in the final seconds, with three by three points or fewer, and none being by more than six points (which was a double OT defeat). In short, the Grizzlies win/loss record could easily be a lot better if a couple lucky bounces went their way. It's very interesting to note as well, that over its last three series, Montana has won the first game, only to lose the second two days later. The pick: Weber State is primed for a letdown after four-straight victories. With a home and home set vs. Eastern Washington next week, the road ahead doesn't get any easier for the Grizzlies. This is a crucial contest for the season and I don't think that home court advantage can be looked past. Montana is the hungrier dog in this fight and I like it to deliver on home-court. This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on Montana. |
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02-10-21 | Wake Forest v. Boston College +1 | Top | 69-65 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 3 m | Show |
The set-up: A couple of bottom feeders going head-to-head here, but I don't think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular case. Both teams come in off losses. Wake lost 79-58 to the Fighting Irish, while Boston College lost 81-65 to NC State. The Notre Dame loss snapped a five-game ATS win streak as well for the Demon Deacons and I think they'll take another step back here as well. Overall Wake averages 69.2 PPG, while allowing 68.7. The pick: Boston College returned to action after missing three weeks in the loss to the Wolfpack, and it looked ugly early, as NC State went on a 37-3 run at one point, before the Eagles close the first half at 44-21. BC was without a couple of players as well in that one, but the team looked much stronger as the game went on and considering the circumstances and the way the contest opened, the Eagles definitley pulled it together quickly and finished that one strong. And I feel there's no reason not to believe they can't carry that momentum over here as well. With the rust of a few weeks off now gone, look for BC to come out much faster this time around. The Eagles average 72.1 PPG, while allowing 78.4, but note tha they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine home gaems after allowing 80 or more points in a SU/ATS loss in their last outing. I like BC to find a way to get the job done here. This is a 10* UNDERDOG GAME OF THE YEAR on Boston College. |
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02-09-21 | Creighton -7 v. Georgetown | Top | 63-48 | Win | 100 | 30 h 39 m | Show |
The set-up: Creighton has been struggling against the spread for bettors, losing three in a row. One of those losses was an outright loss at home to Georgetown just last week. The Blue Jays were favored by 14 points in that one. Georgetown has a losing record, but it's 8-6 ATS overall this season. The Hoyas have covered in five straight games, including in their last one when they lost 84-74 at Villanova as 13.5 point underdogs. The pick: After that close call, I think the Hoyas definitely take a step back here. Creighton is ready to avenge last week's setback and the spread it has to cover here is almost cut in half of what it was in that contest. Much more manageable and realistic and I expect the Blue Jays to deliver in this fantastic situational opportunity. Lay the points. This is a 10* BIG EAST GAME OF THE YEAR on Creighton. |
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02-09-21 | Rockets v. Pelicans -4 | Top | 101-130 | Win | 100 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
The set-up: New Orleans has won three straight. The Pelicans catch Houston off a 119-94 loss in Charlotte just last night. New Orleans also plays with revenge here after losing to the Rockets just two weeks ago. The Pels also hit the road for five games starting tomorrow night in Chicago, so that makes tonight's contest extra important. The pick: Frankly, Houston has overachieved since the James Harden trade and it's definitely starting to show some "cracks in the armor." I base my picks on many different things, but from a situational standpoint, they simply do not get much better than this. I look for a completely lop-sided blowout here for the home side. This is a 10* REVENGE GAME OF THE YEAR on the Pelicans. |
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02-08-21 | Wolves v. Mavs -8.5 | Top | 122-127 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 53 m | Show |
The set-up: Minnesota is having another difficult season, mainly due to injuries and COVID. The Wolves enter having lost three of their last four. Dallas enters having won two of three, most recently a 134-132 victory over the Warriors. Dallas is 4-1 SU the last five in this series at home and it's covered in seven of the last ten in this series overall. That includes going 4-6 ATS here in this building. Note that Minnesota's last remaining good player, D'Angelo Russell, is also questionable for this contest. The pick: Dallas may have won two of three, but it hasn't been pretty. The Mavericks have continued to struggle posting any ATS victories though, but I think that's finally about to change here. This is the perfect opponent to get back on track against defensviely and I expect the Mavericks' offense to continue to build chemistry as well. Look for a full four-quarter effort from the home side and lay the points with confidence. This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Dallas Mavericks. |
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02-08-21 | Canucks +1.5 v. Maple Leafs | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -128 | 31 h 24 m | Show |
The set-up: I think Vancouver will be much more competitive in the third game of this mini-series with Toronto, after losing the first game 7-3 and the second by a score of 5-1. The Leafs have a night off before a home and home set against rival Montreal as well after this, so the possibility of finally getting caught "looking ahead" is there as well. The pick: But for the now desperate Canucks, clearly there isn't any "looking past" anyone at this point. Vancouver has major issues on both ends of the ice, but the talent is in place across the board to make a marked improvement and I do expect to finally see the Canucks' best effort tonight. Toronto looks good in every respect, but I'll point out that Vancouver is 7-2 in its last nine after back-to-back road losses of four or more goals. In a game which I see being decided late or even in extra time, I'm going to recommend to lay the reasonable price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance. This is a 10* PUCK-LINE GAME OF THE WEEK on the Canucks. |
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02-07-21 | Chiefs -3 v. Bucs | Top | 9-31 | Loss | -108 | 323 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: I played on the Chiefs in the AFC Conference Championship and I play on the Bucs in the NFC Conference Championship. These teams are similar in many respects, but I think that the Chiefs are the better overall team through all three phases. Better QB and offense. Equal defense and better special teams. Yes, Tom Brady has a plethora of experience at this level, and while they've looked very good to reach this point, team chemistry and this most elite level is in question in my opinion. Not so for Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and this deep Chiefs offense. The pick: This will truly be a passing of the torch moment for the NFL. I'm not going to break down individual stats, because I'm not basing this pick entirely on stats. As I said, these teams have similar numbers. They're really good in almost every department. Honestly, it wouldn't be difficult to write a convincing argument for either team to win this game straight up, but as I also mentioned the intangibles that KC brings to the table here, and along with Reid, who is a master when he has a week or more to prepare for a game. I repsect Brady and I think the Bucs are for sure the best team in the NFC. The is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Kansas City Chiefs. |
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02-06-21 | Northwestern +7.5 v. Purdue | 70-75 | Win | 100 | 23 h 56 m | Show | |
The set-up: Northwestern won't be lacking for motivation here as it's just 3-8 in league play. Most recently the Wildcats fell to Rutgers. In fact, Northwestern enters having lost eight in a row. Here's the perfect opponent to get untracked against, as Purdue has lost two of three, including a 61-60 setback to Maryland in its most recent outing. Northwestern averages 74.7 PPG< and it allows 71.9. The pick: Purdue only allows 66.3, but the Boilermakers offense isn't any better by averaging 73.9. Northwestern is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games after a five-games or longer SU losing streak. I think Purdue struggles with focus here after its latest road loss and I like the Wildcats to risk life and limb today as they try to get off the schneid. I'm grabbing the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Northwestern. |
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02-06-21 | Toledo v. Ball State +8.5 | Top | 67-81 | Win | 100 | 18 h 27 m | Show |
The set-up: Toledo is 16-4 and Ball State is just 6-9. Outright win? I'm not predicting that, but I do definitely think the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest. Toledo has won five straight, including a 15 point victory over Akron last time out. Winning, especially at the College level, can lead to complacency. The pick: Ball State won't be lacking for motivation here, as it's facing the top team in the league on its own floor, while it will also be trying to erase a four-game slide. Last time out the Cardinals fell by 20 points to the Bulls. Toledo has hit a very "vanilla" part of its schedule, with NIU up next and I think it finally comes out a bit flat here. I'll point out as well that Ball State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games after scoring 60 or less points in a SU/ATS loss in its previous outing. Grab the points. This is a 10* MAC GAME OF THE MONTH on Ball State. |
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02-06-21 | Cal Poly +12.5 v. Hawaii | 68-84 | Loss | -110 | 32 h 14 m | Show | |
The set-up: This is the first game of a two-game set between the teams and I expect it to be a lot more competitive than what this spread is leading us to believe. Cal Poly won't be lacking for motivation off a 64-51 loss to CSU Northridge on Saturday. Hawaii split its last series with UC Irvine, winning 62-61 in OT in the last one and I think it comes out a bit flat to start this one after that emotional revenge victory. Overall the Mustangs average 60 PPG, while allowing 69.9. Hawaii averages 71.1 and concedes 66.2. The pick: Cal Poly's offense has been an issue all year, but it comes in as the hungrier team here. These defenses are very similar and I think the visitors will keep it competitive until the final moments. I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, but as stated before, this one definitely looks like it'll come right down to the wire. Grab the points! This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Cal Poly Slo. |
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02-05-21 | Marshall v. Old Dominion +4 | Top | 81-82 | Win | 100 | 27 h 15 m | Show |
The set-up: Marshall's won two in a row, but I think it'll stumble here vs. a hungry ODU side which is rested, as it's had its last four games postponed due to COVID issues. Previous to winning two in a row, Marshall had dropped two in a row. Overall the Herd is 3-3 in Conference play. Previous to its break, ODU had won four of five. ODU enters are 4-2 in league play. The pick: The Monacrchs only allow 68.5 PPG this season, and despite being 5-2 on the road this year, I think that Marshall will have a difficult time replicating its last two offensive performances. Not only is ODU a perfect 5-0 SU at home this year, but it's also 5-1 ATS in its last six home games vs. a team with a road winning percentage of greater than .600. I'm banking on ODU to quickly shake off any rust and while the outright win is clearly not out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* CONFERENCE USA GAME OF THE MONTH on Old Dominion. |
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02-04-21 | Nuggets v. Lakers -5 | Top | 93-114 | Win | 100 | 30 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: Denver comes in off a satisfying win over Utah, as Nikola Jokic posted his ninth straight double-double. LA had lost four straight ATS, but they were able to break that slide with an 8-point road victory. The pick: The last four times Denver has come to play in this building, LA has averaged 121 points, while conceding just 109 to it. I think this trend of domination continues, as I don't think Denver has the defense to hang with the home side down the stretch. This is an important game and I expect The King and company to build off their latest ATS victory with an even stronger performance this evening. Lay the points. This is a 10* BLOCKBUSTER on the Lakers. |
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02-04-21 | Canucks +1.5 v. Maple Leafs | 3-7 | Loss | -142 | 29 h 15 m | Show | |
The set-up: I'm going to lay this reasonable mid-sized price for the extra goal and a half of insurance. Vancouver is coming off two straight losses, so it won't be lacking for motivation here. The Leafs are off a tough 4-3 OT loss to the Oilers. In the early going, Toronto's numbers have been better, as Vancouver did go through some massive off-season changes to its goaltending and defense. The pick: Vancouver though is averaging 3.69 GPG, while Toronto is averaging 3.60. Finally I'll point out as well that Vancouver is 7-2 in its last nine road games after a two-games or longer losing streak. However, while we do think the outright win is possible, we're simply looking for a solid "cover" in this particular wager. In a game which I see being decided late or even in extra time, I'm grabbing the visiting side on the puck line. This is an 8* PUCK-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Canucks. |
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02-03-21 | Mavs +1.5 v. Hawks | 122-116 | Win | 100 | 29 h 23 m | Show | |
The set-up: Dallas will look to snap out of a six-game losing skid here. Devin Booker hit a last second shot and the Mavericks most recently fell at home to the Suns. Atlanta enters off an eight-point loss to the Lakers. Both teams have plenty of talent, but each has struggled at times this year. The pick: With a spread like this, clearly the oddsmakers think these teams are evenly matched. However, Dallas is 7-1 ATS in its last eight non-conference road games after a five-games or longer SU losing streak. I like Luka Doncic and the now desperate Mavericks to lay everything on the line here and to find a way to earn a victory finally. Lay the short points. This is an 8* ATS BLOOD-BATH on the Dallas Mavericks. |
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02-03-21 | Houston v. East Carolina +16.5 | Top | 73-82 | Win | 100 | 28 h 47 m | Show |
The set-up: Outright win? I'm not predicting that. But I do think the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest. Houston is 15-1 overall and 10-1 in AAC action. The Cougars have won eight in a row. Winning can lead to complacency, especially among college athletes. East Carolina enters under the radar and hungry to break out of a six-game slide, most recently falling to Tulsa 77-68. Houston's a good team, most recently beating SMU 70-48. With a week off before a contest at USF though, I think the Cougars will come out flat in the second half as they get caught looking ahead. They're in no fear of actually losing this game outright, but I also don't think they'll run up this score, instead leaving the back door open for a nice cover for the hungry home side. The pick: ECU average 61 PPG and it concedes 69.3. Hence its poor overall record. The Pirates though are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home games as an underdog in the +15.5 to +17.5 points range and as stated, they're clearlier the "hungrier" dog in this fight. I expect Houston to indeed get caught looking ahead here. No upset, but tighter than what this spread would suggest. Grab the points. This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on East Carolina. |
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02-02-21 | Senators +1.5 v. Oilers | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -123 | 31 h 6 m | Show |
The set-up: The panic button has been hit in Ottawa. The Senators have lost eight straight. They lost 8-5 to the Oilers in their last game. Ottawa is obviously a really bad team, but I expect its best effort here. The Oilers have been "hit or miss" this season, as before winning two in a row here, they had lost three straight. The pick: Of course Edmonton is the better team, but I think it gets caught looking ahead to four whole nights off after this before a game at Calgary. And for the Senators, I look for them to risk life and limb today getting into shooting and passing lanes to try and secure a victory. At this price, I think this is a fantastic value play on the PUCK LINE. This is a 10* SITUATIONAL PUCK-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Ottawa Senators. |
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02-02-21 | Grizzlies v. Pacers -6.5 | Top | 116-134 | Win | 100 | 29 h 0 m | Show |
The set-up: Memphis is 8-6 and it's coming off a huge win in San Antonio just last night. Now it's 9-6. Suffice it to say, I think this sets up as a classic "letdown" spot, as Memphis now travels across country to play a non-conference game just 24 hours later. The pick: Indiana on the other hand is on a two-games losing streak. The Pacers will be desperate to break out of their slump and I think this is the perfect situation in which to do that. These team's offensive and defensive numbers are similar, but note that Indiana is 4-1 ATS in its last five home games after a two-games or longer SU losing streak. I'm laying the points and expecting a blowout. This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Indiana Pacers. |
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02-01-21 | Suns v. Mavs -1.5 | Top | 109-108 | Loss | -112 | 14 h 19 m | Show |
The set-up: After three straight losses, the Suns have now won two in a row, including a 111-105 victory over these very Mavericks on Saturday. The Suns are playing without Devin Booker right now, so the Mavericks have no excuse in this revenge scenario. And not only does Dallas play with revenge here, it's also out to break a five-game losing streak. For all intents and purposes, this is absolutely a "must win" scenario for Luka Doncic and company. The pick: Betting on sports isn't about simply looking at team's averages and figuring out if they can cover a spread. Indeed, there's so many other factors to take into account and in this case, I still think Dallas is the better team on paper and on the floor. There's just been zero chemistry for this Dallas team this year for some reason. But that's about to change. Doncic and Porzingis are a forced to be reckoned with and I thnk they'll will their team to its best win of the year tonight. I'm laying the short points. The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Dallas Mavericks. |
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02-01-21 | Bruins -1.5 v. Capitals | Top | 5-3 | Win | 170 | 27 h 56 m | Show |
The set-up: Boston enters off a 4-3 OT loss here on the 30th, but I like it to win handily in this revenge scenario. The Bruins only have one regulation loss in their eight games this year. The Bruins only allow 22.9 shots per game, while averaging 32.5 of their own. Boston is also first in the NHL with a 9.63 shot-differential. The pick: Washington has been good late as well. The Capitals though have struggled in this spot for bettors by going just 1-4 in their last five after scoring four or more goals in an OT victory in their last outing. Boston on the other hand is 7-1 in its last eight in trying to revenge an OT loss to an opponent in which it allowed four or more goals in. I look for Boston to not only win this one, but to win by a big margin. The is a 10* PUCK-LINE GAME OF THE WEEK on the Boston Bruins. |
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01-31-21 | Nets v. Wizards +8 | Top | 146-149 | Win | 100 | 29 h 54 m | Show |
The set-up: Hey, I'm all about betting a really great "situation," and that's definitely the case here for the Wizards in my opinion. The Nets are off a 147-125 win over the Thunder in their latest game, but with a much more high-profile game against the Clippers at home on Tuesday, I think the visiting side gets got "looking ahead." The Wizards on the other hand won't be lacking for motivation here after four straight losses. The pick: The Nets are also just 1-5 ATS in their last six after scoring 145 or more points in a SU/ATS home victory in their last outing, while the Wizards are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after four or more straight SU/ATS losses in a row. The Nets are the better team, but this is about the overall "situation," which I've outlined definitely favors the home side here. Grab the points. This a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the Washington Wizards. |
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01-31-21 | Middle Tennessee +15 v. UAB | Top | 52-63 | Win | 100 | 25 h 45 m | Show |
The set-up: MTSU won't be lacking for motivation here as it tries to break a five-game losing streak. The Blue Raiders average 60.8 PPG, while allowing 67.5. Dontrell Shuler averages 12.6 points and 2.2 boards. The UAB Blazers have won six of their last seven and I think they're going to get caught "looking past" their lowly opponent here and I look for them to leave the back door open just enough for this hungry Blue Raiders team to comfortably sneak through down the stretch. UAB averages 75 PPG and it concedes 58.5. The pick: Betting on sports isn't about simply adding up offensive and defensive averages and then trying to find edges in posted lines, as there are a plethora of other factors to also consider. And that's the case here. Clearly UAB is the better team, but I don't think it'll run up the score here and we definitely don't have to question the Blue Raiders resolve after their extended losing streak now. UAB won this game 70-59 two nights ago as an 11-point favorite, pushing on the number. The Blue Raiders are getting a few more points here, but I expect an even more tightly contested affair this time around. Grab the points. This is a 10* CONFERENCE USA GAME OF THE MONTH on MTSU. |
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01-30-21 | Blues -1.5 v. Ducks | 6-1 | Win | 162 | 13 h 22 m | Show | |
The set-up: St. Louis comes in fresh here after its latest game was postponed with the Knights for COVID reasons. St. Louis is 4-2-1 so far. The Ducks are 3-3-2 so far, most recently coming off a 3-2 loss to Arizona. Early numbers are something that must always be considered, but drawing any concrete conclusions on any team to this point isn't possible yet in my opinion. The pick: That said, Anaheim is averaging just 1.75 GPG, while the Blues are averaging 2.67. St. Louis has a couple of blowout lop-sided losses, so it's GAA is skewed. The Ducks have been good defensively, but note that they're just 12-29 in their last 41 when playing on one days rest. The Blues are 9-4 in their last 13 on the road and I expect them to not only win, but to win big. Let's lay the 1.5 goals for the big plus-money return. Go St. Louis go! This is an 8* PUCK-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Blues (-1.5). |
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01-30-21 | Weber State v. Idaho +13 | 81-62 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 12 m | Show | |
The set-up: Am I suggesting that you should play the 0-12 Idaho Vandals on the moneyline here for their first victory of the season? Of course not. But I do now believe that the value has swung their way as far as the spread is concerned. This number is just too big. Weber State is 8-4, but after a 25 point victory in the first matchup with the Vandals on Thursday, I think the Wildcats get caught looking ahead to a few days off before a home game against No. 1 Montanta State on February 4th. The pick: The Vandals actually had some decent numbers in the Thursday loss, shooting 42.9 percent from the floor, with 33 total rebounds and 17 assists. Turnovers and extremely poor outside shooting did them in, but I expect a much cleaner game this time around. As I said up top, no outright, but more competitive than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe. Grab the points. The is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Idaho. |
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01-30-21 | Cal-Irvine v. Hawaii +4 | Top | 53-51 | Win | 100 | 31 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: After six-straight victories, I think that UC Irvine takes a step back here. Hawaii had lost two in a row, before winning in a blowout in its last outing. The Warriors allow 68.5 PPG, while the Anteaters concede just 62.5. UC Irvine's strength of schedule can be question in my opinion, and note that it's just 1-3 on the road so far this season. The pick: Hawaii is 2-2 at home, but it's 7-2 ATS after a 15 points or greater SU/ATS victory in its last outing. Keep your eyes on Casdon Jardine, who leads the Warriors in points and rebounding. UC Irvine has been shaky on the road this year and it now faces a Anteaters team coming off its best performance of the season. Hawaii also plays with revenge here after losing both games in this series last season. While the outright is clearly not out of the question, all signs point to a solid cover at the least. This is a 10* BIG-WEST GAME OF THE YEAR on Hawaii. |
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01-28-21 | Belmont v. Austin Peay +6 | Top | 81-76 | Win | 100 | 27 h 7 m | Show |
The set-up: Outright victory? Maybe. This is a contest which I envision coming right down to the wire, and because of that, I'm going to recommend to grab as many points as you can. I think 16-1 Belmont is going to get caught looking past the 8-5 Austin Peay Governors. Belmont enters off a 114-62 win over SIU-Edwardsville. The Bruins average 83.2 PPG, while allowing 68.3. The pick: Austin Peay likely got caught looking ahead to this game in its last game, falling 76-70 to Jacksonville State. The Governors average 73.5 PPG while allowing 69.7. These teams are very similar on the defensive end, and as I pointed out, I do think this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot for the Bruins, who are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after scoring 110 or more points in a SU/ATS road victory in their last outing. I smell an upset, but in the end let's grab up the points! The is a 10* UNDERDOG GAME OF THE MONTH on Austin Peay. |
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01-28-21 | Blazers +2 v. Rockets | Top | 101-104 | Loss | -100 | 27 h 26 m | Show |
The set-up: I got down early and do not have a very good line (just +2), however I think the Blazers are going to win this one outright (that said, I'm still going to recommend to play with the points, rather than the moneyline.) My "Coach's Corner" packages are all about "situations." This one sets up GREAT for the Blazers in my opinion. The Blazers have lost three straight against the spread, going just 1-2 straight-up in the process, most recently a 125-122 home setback to the Thunder. Portland though comes in motivated to win here in my opinion after the scuffling stretch and because this is the opener of a big seven-game road trip. Also throw in the fact that it's a "revenge" game after a 128-126 OT loss back on December 26th. The pick: After three straight victories, and with a night off before a four-game Estern swing, I think the home side finally gets caught complacent and flat-footed here. I'm banking on the Blazers winning outright, but as I said up top, the official play will be to grab as many points as you can. The is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Portland Trailblazers. |
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01-27-21 | Western Carolina +2.5 v. VMI | Top | 61-87 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 6 m | Show |
The set-up: Western Carolina is 7-7 and the VMI Keydets are 8-8. Western Carolina is out to snap a five-game losing streak. The Catamounts average 79.6 PPG, and they concede 78.4. Mason Faulkner is averaging 16 points and 4.8 assists. The pick: The VMI Keydets are averaging 81.4 PPG, while conceding 77.2. The Keydets have split their last six games, but note that they're just 2-6 ATS in their last eight conference home games as a favorite in the +1.5 to +4.5 points range. Finally note that the road team is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 in this series. These teams are evenly matched for sure, but WCU enters as the hungrier side. I look for the Catamounts to find a way to deliver on the road. The is a 10* BLOWOUT OF THE MONTH on Western Carolina. |
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01-26-21 | Sharks v. Avalanche -1.5 | Top | 3-7 | Win | 111 | 30 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: San Jose has split its first three series. It enters at 3-3, tied with the Avs for fourth spot in the division. Colorado hasn't gotten out to the start it's hoped for either, but it'll be pumped to return home after two straight series on the road and a 3-1 loss to the lowly Ducks. The pick: Both teams have struggled with consistency in the early going, but the Avalanche are the much more motivated team here. Colorado comes in off a humiliating effort to Anaheim, while the Sharks enter off a satisfying 5-3 road win at Minnesota. The Avs are just 1-5 "against the spread" this year (+1.5/-1.5), but I expect that lop-sided trend to start correcting itself immediately. I look for Colorado to not only, but to win BIG. Lay the 1.5 goals for the small plus-moeny return. The is a 10* PUCK-LINE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Colorado Avalanche. |
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01-26-21 | SIU-Edwardsville v. Eastern Illinois -6.5 | Top | 87-74 | Loss | -115 | 28 h 3 m | Show |
The set-up: SIU is 4-5 and Eastern Illinois is 5-10. THe Cougars are averaging 67.2 PPG, while allowing 74.4. The Panthers are averaging 71.1 PPG and conceding 75.8. Eastern Illinois has faced a more difficult schedule and has the advantage of playing at home here. The pick: Eastern Illinois has lost five straight. Losing isn't fun. Winning is. THe Panthers though have an unbelievable opportunity here, as not only are the Cougars a bad team, but they also haven't even played since December 10th. I look for the hungrier, more in "game shape" Panthers to finally figure it out and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. The is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Eastern Illinois. |
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01-24-21 | Hawks v. Bucks -7 | Top | 115-129 | Win | 100 | 27 h 7 m | Show |
The set-up: After winning three in a row, I think the Hawks finally have a small letdown here. The Bucks on the other hand are 9-6 and they'll be eager to atone for a 113-106 home loss to the Lakers on Thursday. Atlanta though is still only 2-5 ATS in its last seven road games vs. a team with a winning home record. The pick: This is a bad matchup for Atlanta though, as the Bucks have really skilled perimeter defenders in Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton. After back-to-back losses to the Nets and Lakers, look for the home side to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish in this one. The is a 10* EAST-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE YEAR on the Bucks. |
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01-24-21 | Bills v. Chiefs -3 | Top | 24-38 | Win | 100 | 156 h 2 m | Show |
The set-up: Whether Patrick Mahomes plays or not, I think the Chiefs are deep and talented enough to pull off a victory here at home over the Bills. Buffalo is now definitely in unchartered territory. With Josh Allen under center, this Bills team has a shot at competing with any team in the league. Buffalo's weakness this year is definitely on the defensive side of the ball though and I think that'll be its downfall finally here in this difficult road venue. The pick: The Chiefs have had lapses in concentration this year (lost at home to the Raiders), but overall the reason they eclipsed their team season win total for an eighth straight year was because of an improved defense. KC is loaded with offensive and defensive talent and I like Andy Reid to have a masterful plan cooked up here to deal with the potential of Mahomes being sidelined. The game of Football is about more than just one player obviously and in this case, I think that the defending champs still have more than enough pieces in place to pull off another victory and advance to the Super Bowl. I'm laying the points! The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the KC Chiefs. |
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01-24-21 | Bucs +4 v. Packers | 31-26 | Win | 100 | 152 h 23 m | Show | |
The set-up: Is Aaron Rodgers the better QB in this matchup? At this point of their careers, I'd say that's the case. That said, on any given night, clearly Tom Brady has enough left in the tank to beat any team or person on the planet. This game isn't going to be decided though by Brady and Rodgers. Night in and night out, we almost always know what we can expect from these two legends. I think each will be on top of his game. For me, this one is going to be decided by defense, special teams and the Bucs superior run game. The Rams ran out of gas last weekend, but the Bucs come to town full of energy and on a mission. The pick: Note as well that the Packers are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after allowing 20 points or less in a SU/ATS home victory in their last outing. I think the Bucs can control this game through all three phases and while I do expect an outright victory, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. The is an 8* ROUT on the Bucs. |
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01-24-21 | Davidson -1.5 v. Massachusetts | Top | 69-60 | Win | 100 | 19 h 43 m | Show |
The set-up: Davidson comes in off a 73-58 win over Fordham on Wednesday. It was an 18.5 point favorite and while the Wildcats have been winning, they have failed to cover in three straight. UMass comes in off a 65-46 win at Fordham last week as a nine point favorite. The Wildcats last three wins have been by at least 14 points though and I think they'll pull away for a comfortable cover finally here. The pick: UMass has covered in three straight, and while it does average 82.8 PPG, the Minutemen also concede 75 per contest. Davidson is the more complete team here, definitely better on the defensive end and note that it's 4-1 ATS in its last five on the road. The Minutemen are vastly improved, but I think their record has taken advantage of a favorable schedule to this point. I'm laying the points, but expecting a decisive victory. The is a 10* ANNIHILATION on Davidson. |
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01-23-21 | Warriors +7 v. Jazz | Top | 108-127 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: The Warriors are 8-7 and are coming off a loss to the Knicks on Thursday night. Previous to that GS beat the Lakers in a thriller on the road, followed by a solid victory over the Spurs at home. The Warriors have been better than most likely thought they'd have been without Klay Thompson in the lineup. Steph Curry and this potent Warriors line-up is going to be able to push this tough Jazz defense to the brink in my opinion. The pick: The Jazz have covered in seven straight, but Golden State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after scoring 105 points or less in a SU/ATS home loss in its last outing. I expect Golden State to come in focussed and while the outright is possible, let's grab the points. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Golden State Warriors. |
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01-23-21 | Valparaiso +2 v. Illinois State | Top | 69-60 | Win | 100 | 25 h 11 m | Show |
The set-up: Valparaiso is 3-9, while Illinois State is 5-8. Valparaiso comes in hungry to snap a five-game losing streak. OVerall the Crusaders are averaging 71.5 PPG, while conceding 67.5. The pick: The Redbirds have lost five of their last seven. Overall Illinois State is averaging 76 PPG, while allowing 76.8. Illinois State's issues on the defensive end are going to be the issue here for it. Look for Valparaiso to pull away for the comfortable cover in the second half. This is a 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Valpo. |
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01-21-21 | Knicks +5.5 v. Warriors | Top | 119-104 | Win | 100 | 16 h 4 m | Show |
The set-up: The Knicks have had two days off to prepare for this one, and they also play in Sacramento tomorrow night. I look for New York to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish here as it takes advantage of a Warriors team that enters off a highly satisfying 121-99 win at home over the Spurs just last night. The pick: Both teams have been better than most expected this year. The Knicks have been the league's punching bag for years, but they aren't a complete pushover this season. The Knicks are off a 91-84 win over Orlando and note that they're 7-2 ATS in their last nine after holding their previous opponent to 85 or fewer points in a SU/ATS victory. A great situational play in my opinion and while the outright victory isn't out of the question, in the end, I'll recommend grabbing as many points as you can. This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Knicks. |
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01-21-21 | Lightning v. Blue Jackets +1.5 | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 13 h 6 m | Show | |
The set-up: Is Tampa the better team in this matchup? For sure. Is Columbus the "hungrier" team in this matchup though? I'd say yes for sure as well. Tampa plays its first game in almost a week, its first true road game of the season and I think it'll be a bit flat after easily handling the Blackhawks at home in two straight to open the season. The pick: Columbus is just 1-3 after falling 3-2 in OT at Detroit in its latest action. Note that the Blue Jackets are interestingly 8-2 in their last ten after scoring two or less goals in an OT loss in their previous outing. I think the situational factors working in favor of Columbus make it the correct call here, but in this case, I'm going to lay the price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance (just in case we see another OT period.) This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on the Blue Jackets. |
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01-21-21 | Wichita State v. Memphis -2.5 | Top | 52-72 | Win | 100 | 13 h 58 m | Show |
The set-up: I think Wichita State comes in complacent here after its 19 points win at home over Tulsa, moving it to 8-3. Memphis is 6-3, and it'll be eager to return to form here after losing by one point to Tulsa on the road. The Shockers have covered the spread in all four of their road games this year, but I think that now swings the value to the home side here, as oddsmakers over compenstate in my opinion. The pick: Both teams are decent defensively, and overall they're evenly matched. But the Tigers are the hungrier team here and note that they're 8-3 ATS in their last 11 home games after scoring 60 or less points in a SU/ATS road loss in their previous outing. This one has "letdown" written all over it for the Shockers in my opinion. Lay the short points. This is a 10* BLOWOUT ELITE OF THE ELITE on Memphis. |
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01-20-21 | Coyotes +1.5 v. Golden Knights | Top | 2-5 | Loss | -135 | 16 h 30 m | Show |
The set-up: The Coyotes are 1-1-1 and the Knights are 2-0. Arizona has a great mix of veterans and younger players. Arizona also has a great goaltending duo in Darcy Kemper and Antti Raanta. The pick: The Golden Knights biggest issue is on the defensive end of the ice. The Knights offense is great, and the goaltenders are solid as well. I expect Arizona to bring its best effort here. This is another one which I foresee being decided late or in extra time. The is a 10* PUCK LINE play on the Arizona Coyotes. |
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01-20-21 | Sharks +1.5 v. Blues | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 15 h 30 m | Show | |
The set-up: The Sharks are the much more motivated side here after losing this game 5-4 on Monday night. San Jose is now 1-2, while St. Louis is 2-1. To say this is a "revenge" game would be a bit of an understatement, as San Jose has now lost six straight in this series. The pick: Both team's defense and goaltending looked poor on Monday night and the Sharks had a golden opportunity to actually win that one outright. Regardless, this one has all the makings of another highly competitive affair that's once again decided late and as such, I'll recommend to lay the reasonable mid-sized price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance. The is an 8* PUCK LINE play on the Sharks. |
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01-20-21 | Oilers +1.5 v. Maple Leafs | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 13 h 31 m | Show | |
The set-up: Are the Leafs the better team here? Probably. They have the better record in the early going and they had slightly better odds to win the Stanley Cup before the season started. But Edmonton comes in for sure as the "hungrier" team after scoring 1-3. The Leafs have won three of four and I think they'll be a tiny bit complacent here. The pick: Edmonton hasn't had much luck playing in Toronto the last few year's, but this season is unlike any other for everyone. I'm not going to overreact to the Oilers' early season issues, and expect a much better showing here after their 3-1 home loss to the Habs in their last game. Lay the price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance in a contest which I see being decided late or even in extra time. The is a 6* PUCK LINE play on the Oilers. |
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01-20-21 | Nets v. Cavs +10 | Top | 135-147 | Win | 100 | 12 h 20 m | Show |
The set-up: This is expected to be the return of Kyrie Irving to the Nets line-up after he missed seven games due to personal reasons. Jarrett Allen and Taurean Prince face off against their former team after being dealt to the Cavs in the Harden deal. The Cavaliers are 6-7, most recently coming off a gritty 106-103 win over the Knicks. The Cavaliers are the best defensive team in the league, allowing just 103.9 PPG, and I think they're going to bring their "A" game tonight as they look to pull off the outright upset. The pick: Brooklyn looks really good, but I think consistency against weaker teams is going to be an issue for it this year. Irving is a distraction at this moment, not a benefit. I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, but everything points this one being a lot closer than what this spread would suggest in my opinion. So grab the points! This is a 10* UNDERDOG ULTIMATE BLOWOUT on the Cavaliers. |
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01-20-21 | Rhode Island v. Duquesne +5.5 | Top | 69-71 | Win | 100 | 11 h 10 m | Show |
The set-up: Duquesne is the "hungrier" team in this matchup after back-to-back losses. The Rams have won two of their last three. The Rams are averaging 74.5 PPG this year, but note that they're a poor 1-4 on the road this season. Duquesne is only averaging 62.8 PPG this year, but note that Dukes are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home games after back-to-back SU/ATS losses. The pick: This is also a revenge game for the Dukes after the Rams blew them out in this game last year. The Rams' terrible play on the road is a very real factor here and while I do think the outright win is possible, in the end I'll recommend that you grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Duquesne. |
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01-19-21 | Pelicans +6.5 v. Jazz | Top | 102-118 | Loss | -104 | 29 h 57 m | Show |
The set-up: New Orleans finally broke a five-game slide with a 128-123 win at Sacramento in its last game. The Pelicans got 31 points from Zion Williamson, while Brandon Ingram added 22. Eric Bledsoe was also big with 21 points. Now New Orleans is in Utah for two straight, as these teams will play here again on Thursday night. This is their first game against each other this season. Last year the Jazz took three of four, but all were pretty competitive, including in Utah's 106-104 win back on July 30th of 2020 in the final one there. The pick: The Jazz lost 112-100 at the Knicks back on January 6th and they haven't lost since, not only winning five in a row, but also covering in five straight. So now I think public perception here has pushed up this line on the home side after its recent win streak, and I think the value has now swung to this hungry underdog team. Williamson is finally starting to his stride, so I expect him to build off his latest game and at the very least, take the Jazz down to the wire. This one definitely sets up well for the visiting side. The is a 10* ATS BLOOD-BATH on New Orleans. |
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01-19-21 | Duke -3 v. Pittsburgh | Top | 73-79 | Loss | -105 | 28 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: Duke is off a 74-67 loss at Virginia Tech in its latest action. It was the Blue Devils first conference loss. A couple of bright spots in defeat were Jeremy Roach, who had 22 points, and Matthew Hurt, who added 20 points and 11 rebounds. That was only the Blue Devils second road game of the year, and they looked shaky, going just 8 of 29 from 3-point range. But now the Blue Devils come to Pittsburgh focussed and hungry to bounce back. The pick: The Panthers enter having won six of their last seven, including two straight, most recently the 96-76 home beating of Syracuse as a four-point dog. Pittsburgh's been playing well of late, but the Blue Devils have done well in this matchup for years, going 8-2 the last ten in the series straight up. That included a 79-67 home win last year. Duke isn't the same Duke team as in year's past, and Pittsburgh is playing really well at the moment, but I think that off the loss to the Hokies, that the correct call in this matchup is for Duke to bounce back. The is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Duke. |
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01-18-21 | St. John's +10.5 v. Connecticut | Top | 74-70 | Win | 100 | 25 h 35 m | Show |
The set-up: UConn has only played eight games this year, while most other teams have played closer to 14. The Huskies are also without three of their guards due to injury issues. St. John's is averaging 79 PPG, while allowing 78.5. The Huskies have averages 73.13 PPG, while allowing 61.75. The pick: UConn's only loss this year was a 76-74 setback to Creighton. Are the Huskies the better team here? Yes. But the lack of overall play has hampered them overall this year. St. John's has the offense to compete with any team in the nation and I expect it to give the home side everything it can handle today. Probably no outright, but much closer than expected. Grab the points. The is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on St. John's. |
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01-17-21 | Memphis +1 v. Tulsa | Top | 57-58 | Push | 0 | 24 h 25 m | Show |
The set-up: Memphis hasn't played since December 29th, when it beat USF by a score of 58-57. Tulsa is the perfect opponent to get warmed up against, as it's now 7-4 after getting destroyed 72-53 to Wichita State as a 3.5 point dog on Wednesday. This is a revenge game for the Tigers as well after Tulsa scored the 56-49 upset road victory last year. Memphis averages 72.1 PPG, while allowing 64.1. The pick: Tulsa's offense is poor, averaging only 68.7 PPG, while it concedes 61.3. Look for the longer layoff to in fact help here in the final stages of the regular season and expect Memphis to exact its revenge from last year's upset at home. This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Memphis. |
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01-15-21 | Green Bay v. Detroit -3 | Top | 61-86 | Win | 100 | 28 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: Green Bay started off the season 0-9, but it comes to town having won three straight. Suffice it to say, I expect the Phoenix to finally stumble here after three wins in a row. Most recently Green Bay posted an 87-78 victory over Oakland. Detroit's been off since December 27th, when it lost to Oakland 83-80 as a 1-point favorite to fall to 1-7 overall. The Phoenix have covered or pushed in six straight games, and I can't see that streak continuing here vs. this ultra hungry Mercy side. The pick: Detroit is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine after allowing 80 or more points in a SU/ATS loss in its last outing. The Titans have failed to cover in four straight, but the extra time off will be beneficial here in my opinion. This is the first of two games, and I like the "hungrier" home side to risk life and limb here to defend its turf and to pull away down the stretch. Lay the points. This is a 10* HORIZON LEAGUE GAME OF THE YEAR on Detroit. |
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01-15-21 | Appalachian State v. South Alabama -3 | 64-73 | Win | 100 | 28 h 16 m | Show | |
The set-up: After winning three-straight, I think that App State finally stumbles here. South Alabama enters desperate to break a three-game slide. The Mountaineers most recently took two close games over Georiga Southern. South Alabama struggled to contain Coastal Carolina in its most recent back-to-back losses, but it catches a break today facing the Mountaineers. The pick: App State allows teams to shoot 61.1 percent from inside the arc, so I look for Michael Flowers and the home side to push the pace here as they look to get back into the winners circle. I'll point out as well that App State has struggled mightily in this spot for bettors, going just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 road games following a three or more straight home contests. I like South Alabama to bounce back here and take advantage of App State's porous interior defense. Lay the short points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on South Alabama. |
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01-13-21 | La Salle v. George Mason -3 | Top | 42-75 | Win | 100 | 26 h 50 m | Show |
The set-up: George Mason has lost three straight to fall to 5-5 on the year. La Salle had its game against Fordham cancelled, then it most recently lost to UMass. The Explorers are oly averaging 67.6 PPG this year, as La Salle does not have a single player averaging in double-figures this season. The pick: The Patriots have struggled with consistency as well, but they have two players averaging in double figures (keep your eyes on Jordan Miller, who is averaging 15.1 PPG for George Mason). Finally note that the Patriots are 7-2 ATS in their last nine games following a double-digit home loss. Home court advantage can't be overlooked either. I'm laying the points and expecting a decisive home side victory. This is a 10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on George Mason. |
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01-12-21 | Pacers v. Warriors +1 | Top | 104-95 | Loss | -110 | 31 h 50 m | Show |
The set-up: Indianapolis has a game in Sacramento against a desperate Kings team on Monday and I suspect that the Pacers will have their hands full with Sacramento, as it entered that one having lost two in a row and four of its last five. So from a situational standpoint alone, I absolutely feel this sets up great for Stephen Curry and the Warriors. Golden State has been better than most predicted I think. Especially after the first couple of games, as it appeared as if the Warriors would once again be a terrible team without Klay Thompson in the line-up. But that's obviously not the case, as Curry has been excellent and the younger pieces around him are definitely playing a lot better after that first awkward week. The pick: Curry had a 62 point game last week and while he was just 2 of 16 for 11 points vs. the Raptors in his last outing, Golden State still dug deep and pulled out the 106-105 victory. Toronto was desperate in that game as well to break out of its early season struggles, so the fact that the Warriors won that game despite Curry having such a poor performance I think speaks volumse to the current level that the Warriors are playing at right now. I believe the Pacers lay everything on the line to try and secure the victory against the weaker Kings on Monday night, and then I look for them to come out fatigued on Tuesday against this red hot Warriors side. This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE BEST OF THE BEST on Golden State. |
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01-12-21 | Spurs -1.5 v. Thunder | 112-102 | Win | 100 | 28 h 21 m | Show | |
The set-up: This pick is primiarly based upon the "situation" that each club finds itself in coming into this contest. It definitely sets up well for the Spurs in my opinion. Oklahoma City has won three straight, so this does set up as a bit of a natural letdown spot in my opinion. And with the Lakers in town tomorrow night, the Thunder are clearly going to get caught "looking ahead" to that much more high-profile contest vs. the defending champs. The pick: The Spurs on the other hand have won three of their last four, but they come in off a 96-88 setback at Minnesota in their last outing, dropping their last two ATS. Note as well that the Spurs are sharp 7-1 ATS in their last eight after scoring 90 points or less in a SU/ATS loss in their last outing. I'm laying the points and expecting a decisive victory for the visiting side. This is a 9* PLAY-BOOK on San Antonio. |
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01-12-21 | Wisconsin +3.5 v. Michigan | Top | 54-77 | Loss | -101 | 27 h 15 m | Show |
The set-up: I like Wisconsin the underdog here, I think it sets up well for it to keep this one close down the stretch. Michigan has won and covered in four straight. In fact it's 10-0 straight up and 8-2 against the spread. Most recently the Wolverines pulled away for an 82-57 win at home over Minnesota. After this game, Michigan has the rematch with the Gophers in Minnesota this weekend, so it does in a small way set up as a look ahead spot for the home side. Wisconsin has been playing well this year also, it's 10-2 straight-up, but so far it hasn't been as kind to bettors, going just 5-6-1 against the spread. It's actually been trading wins and losses against the spread over its last six games, and while it did win 80-73 in overtime against the Hoosiers in its last outing it didn't cover the nine-point spread. So this pattern continues here, I like the Badgers to bounce back and get a cover here now as well. The pick: These teams last played just before the Pandemic hit in February 2020 and the Badgers managed the 81-74 outright upset in that one. I'll stop short in calling for an outright upset here , but in my opinion, I think everything points to a really tight game. This is a 10* BLOWOUT ELITE OF THE ELITE on Wisconsin. |
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01-11-21 | Pacers v. Kings +4.5 | Top | 122-127 | Win | 100 | 30 h 42 m | Show |
The set-up: These two non-conference opponents enter this game on other ends of the spectrum right now. Indiana has been doing well and Sacramento has been struggling. Indiana though had a two-game win streak snapped last time out in a 125-117 setback to the Suns. The Pacers had played five of their previous six at home and now they hit the road for an extended road swing, including a more high-profile game in Golden State tomorrow night. This absolutely (in my opinion anyways), sets up as a classic "letdown/look-ahead" spot for the visiting side. The pick: Conversely, the Kings come in desperate to break their recent shoddy play which has seen them drop five of their last six, including five in a row ATS. As mentioned off the top, this is what I believe to be a fanastic "situational" play and while the outright win isn't out of the question obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Sacramento Kings. |
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01-10-21 | Browns +4 v. Steelers | 48-37 | Win | 100 | 151 h 55 m | Show | |
The set-up: I got down early and have an unfavorable line, as shortly after taking Cleveland, it was announced that few players, including its head coach, had COVID. The bulk of Cleveland's talent will be on the field of play and clearly the Browns will be out for an outright upset here. These two teams know each other intimately. The Steelers stumbled down the stretch, but managed to win in Week 17. Pittsburgh has a couple COVID issues as well. The pick: The Browns have an offense which can keep pace with any team in the league. Cleveland's defense is also underrated in my opinion. I'm expect this one to come down to whichever of these division rivals has its hands on the ball last, so in that scenario, I'm definitely grabbing up the points! This is a 9* BLOOD-BATH on the Cleveland Browns. |
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01-10-21 | Loyola-Chicago v. Indiana State +7.5 | Top | 71-76 | Win | 100 | 13 h 33 m | Show |
The set-up: I like the 3-6 Sycamores to fight hard and to comfortably sneak in through the backdoor down the stretch. Loyola is 7-2 and it's won four straight, but winning can breed complacency. Indiana State is for sure the "hungrier" dog in this fight, as it's lost four straight. Twice to Drake and twice to Missouri State. The pick: The Ramblers only scored 57 points in their last game against North Texas and I think they'll have their hands full here against a Sycamore's team that's 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more SU/ATS losses in a row. I think this one sets up great for Indiana State in a number of ways. I'm grabbing the points for sure. This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Indiana State. |
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01-09-21 | Bucs v. Washington Football Team +8 | 31-23 | Push | 0 | 131 h 12 m | Show | |
The set-up: Tampa Bay has a great defense and it's offense is dynamic and experienced as well. The issue for Bruce Arians at times is making all those pieces work together at the same time. Washington finished the regular season 7-9, but it closed the regular season by going 4-1. The success of Tampa Bay though will 100% come down to how well Tom Brady does against Washington's stiff defensive front. The pick: Tampa has many injured as well, as note that questionable for Saturday are Carlton Davies, LeSean McCoy and Jason Pierre-Paul. Mike Evans is listed as probable. Cornerback Carlton Davis, linebacker Devin White, and defensive tackle Jeremiah Ledbetter are all out. I can't see Tampa holding onto a big lead, or running up the score if it has a lead late. I'm banking on the home side doing enough to earn a comfortable cover in this one. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTROYER on the Washington Football Team. |
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01-09-21 | USC v. Arizona State +3.5 | Top | 73-64 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 56 m | Show |
The set-up: The Sun Devils hadn't played in three weeks in their 81-75 loss to UCLA in their last game. I think they'll bounce back here though vs. the Trojans, who beat Arizona 87-73 in their latest action. The pick: ASU comes in fresh here, despite the loss last time out. It's the "hungrier" does in this fight as well. With a spread like this, clearly the oddsmakers think these teams are evenly matched, but I think from a situational stand point, it favors the home side. Additionally note that the Trojans are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight after scoring 86 or more points in SU/ATS conference victory in their last outing. While I obviously wouldn't be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* PAC 12 GAME OF THE YEAR on ASU. |
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01-09-21 | Rams +4.5 v. Seahawks | 30-20 | Win | 100 | 126 h 45 m | Show | |
The set-up: These teams split their regular season games, with LA winning 23-16, and the Hawks reciprocating at home in a 20-9 win in the regular season finale. Interestingly, in both games the Rams won the time of possession. The Rams have the playoff defense to keep this one close late, conceding only 18.5 PPG. Jared Goff has the ability to make plays and this Rams' run game can eat up clock as well. The pick: Seattle has one advantage here, Russell Wilson. Granted, that's a big advantage, but I think LA's pass rush is formidable enough to keep him in check like when these team's met the firs time (really, Wilson was pretty much contained in Week 17 as well.) I think this one comes down to the wire, so I'm grabbing the points. This is an 8* BLOCKBUSTER on the LA Rams. |
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01-09-21 | Colts +7 v. Bills | Top | 24-27 | Win | 100 | 127 h 31 m | Show |
The set-up: The Colts have the offense and the defense to hang with Buffalo. The Bills weakness is their ground game. Their defense wasn't great all year, but it did well down the stretch of the regular season. The Colts finished second in the NFL in stopping the run, so the task for the visiting side will be to get to Josh Allen, who is admittedly having a great year. The pick: The Bills weakness defensively was stopping the run, so expect to see a heavy-dose of Colts' RB Jonathan Taylor, who is as versatile running the ball, as he is catching it. I think experience does matter at this point, so Rivers has a small advantage in that department. I think this one comes right down to the wire and therefore, I'm grabbing the points. This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Indianapolis Colts. |
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01-08-21 | Jazz +6 v. Bucks | 131-118 | Win | 100 | 27 h 38 m | Show | |
The set-up: The Jazz come to town off two straight losses to the Nets and Knicks. The Bucks have won three straight, most recently a 130-115 victory over Detroit. One of these teams is feeling a lot better about itself these days, while the other is on the verge of hitting the panic button. I obviously don't expect the Bucks to come out and overlook Utah, but I do think that the Jazz is for sure the "hungrier" dog in this fight. The pick: The Bucks could rest starters as well in the second half of this non-conference game, with Cleveland coming to town tomorrow night as well. The Jazz will be risking life and limb here to try and pull off the upset and while that may not happen, I do expect this one to be decided by whichever of these teams has it hands on the ball last. I'm grabbing the points. This is an 8* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the Utah Jazz. |
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01-08-21 | Hornets v. Pelicans -5.5 | Top | 118-110 | Loss | -117 | 26 h 13 m | Show |
The set-up: These teams are similar in a lot of respects. Their young, and their both hungry to prove themselves and to come out here and get a victory, but I think this is a matchup which favors New Orleans. After back-to-back victories, the Pelicans come in having lost two straight. Both losses though they were very competitive in, falling 118-116 in overtime at home to the red hot Pacers, before then losing 111-110 at home to Oklahoma City. This is an important game for New Orleans though, as after this it hits the road for seven straight road games against some really stiff competition, including the Mavericks, the Clippers, the Lakers and the Jazz. At 4-4, and off two straight losses, and just before a gruelling road trip, I'd call this a "must win" scenario almost for New Orleans. The pick: Who knows what type of effort you're going to get from the Hornets from night-to-night though. And especially on the road. And especially after they finall broke a three-game slide with a 102-94 win at Atlanta in their last game. And with a rematch at home against the Hawks tomorrow night, this also DEFINITELY sets up as a classic "look ahead" spot for the visiting side. So as I said off the top, I think this one sets up great from a situational stand point for the Pelicans, who I believe will risk life and limb today to not only secure the straight up victory, but also a solid against the spread one. This is a 10* BLOWOUT ELITE OF THE ELITE on the New Orleans Pelicans. |
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01-08-21 | North Texas v. Texas-San Antonio +6 | Top | 77-70 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 25 m | Show |
The set-up: After winning three of its last four to return to .500, I think that UNT has a letdown here. Both teams have plenty of issues on both sides of the court. UNT has a decent defense that's conceding 63.5 PPG. UTSA though enters as the hungrier dog in this fight after back-to-back losses to Rice dropped it to 4-5. The pick: The Roadrunners have struggled defensively, but that unit catches a big break today facing the poor offense of UNT. This is the first game of two straight here and I think the desperate home side is the correct call. I think the Roadrunners high-tempo offense keeps them competitive late and while I wouldn't be shocked by an outright upset, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* CONF. USA GAME OF THE YEAR on UTSA. |
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01-07-21 | St Francis PA +2.5 v. Long Island | 75-78 | Loss | -105 | 27 h 51 m | Show | |
The set-up: Obviously I think that the St. Francis Red Flash have a legitimate shot at winning this game outright, but in the end I'll recommend to grab the points. The Red Flash come in as the hungrier side here after a 1-4 start, most recently falling 75-57 to Mount St. Mary's. Overall St. Francis (PA) is averaging 63 points, while allowing 75.8. The pick: Long Island is averaging 73.5 PPG, while allowing 71. On paper, the Sharks are the better team here, but with both teams having missed over three weeks since their last action, "rust" is going to be a major factor for chemistry here. The Red Flash are 7-2 ATS in their last nine conference road games as an underdog in the +2 to +4.5 points range as well. I think the home side gets caught flat-footed here. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on St. Francis. |
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01-07-21 | Cincinnati +6 v. SMU | Top | 76-69 | Win | 100 | 27 h 47 m | Show |
The set-up: I like betting on teams which are "hungry" or "desperate." Cincinnati fits that bill perfectly here. The Bearcats are 2-6 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Most recently the fell 70-63 to Tulsa. SMU is 6-1 overall and 2-1 in league play, but that one loss came in their last outing, falling 74-60 to Houston. Here's a great spot for Cincinnati to take advantage of, as I think playing against teams which have been on an extended win streak, and which are coming off their first loss in a long stretch, are at times perfectly primed for another letdown in their next game immediately after that scenario plays out. The pick: Note as well that the Mustangs are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight after a SU/ATS loss of ten or more points, while the Bearcats are 7-3 ATS in their last ten conference road games after three or more SU losses in a row. Grab the points for sure, but don't be shocked for an outright! This is a 10* AAC GAME OF THE YEAR on Cincinnati. |
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01-06-21 | Utah State v. New Mexico +13 | Top | 77-45 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 8 m | Show |
The set-up: Utah State is the better teams, but New Mexico is by far the "hungrier" team in this matchup after dropping each of its first four Mountain West contests. Utah State comes in complacent here vs. its lowly opponent after winning six in a row. This is the start of three straight games in a row vs. each other, which also puts added incentive onto the home side to try and avoid getting swept in this series. The pick: New Mexico won its first three games, then dropped four. But I'll point out that the Lobos four losses cam against Nevada and Boise State, two teams with a combined 16-4 record right now. Utah State on the other hand has played suspect competition to this point, so its numbers are skewed. The underdog is also 4-1 ATS the last five in this series, while the home side is 10-2 ATS the last 12 between these schools. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points. This is a 10* MOUNTAIN WEST GAME OF THE MONTH on the New Mexico Lobos. |
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01-06-21 | VCU v. George Mason +6.5 | 66-61 | Win | 100 | 27 h 9 m | Show | |
The set-up: George Mason has lost two of three, making it the much hungrier dog in this fight in my estimation. VCU has won six in a row, but winning can lead to complacency. Especially among young athletes. VCU is only conceding 54.6 PPG, but it also only has two players averaging in double figures. The pick: George Mason lost 74-65 in Dayton last time out. Four Patriots average in double figures, and note that the Patriots are 7-2 ATS in their last nine home game after an eight-points or greater SU road loss. I expect VCU to get caught looking ahead and look for the desperate home side to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on George Mason. |
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01-05-21 | Kansas v. TCU +5 | Top | 93-64 | Loss | -110 | 30 h 21 m | Show |
The set-up: I just played against the Longhorns after their upset win over KU, and now I'm also going to suggest a play against the Jayhawks here in this contest, as I believe they'll still be mentally caught up on their last poor effort. TCU has been great, 9-2 overall and it plays with revenge at home. The pick: Note as well that the Horned Frogs are 6-1 ATS in their last seven vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600. These teams are moving in opposite directions and I expect those trends to continue here. While the outright is possible, I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. This is a 10* play on TCU. |
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01-05-21 | Iowa State +13 v. Texas | 72-78 | Win | 100 | 28 h 22 m | Show | |
The set-up: I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger against Texas, after it made a historic win on the road at Allen Field House, completely blowing out the Jayhawks. Iowa State beat the Longhorns last year, but it'll be focussed tonight afte rfalling to Baylor 76-65 in its last outing. The pick: After four-straight victories, and with a game at West Virginia up next, I think the Longhorns suffer a predictable letdown here (note that they are in fact just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after a 30 points or greater SU/ATS road victory.) This is a few too many points to be giving up, the play is on the visiting side. This is an 8* play on Iowa State. |
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01-05-21 | Jazz v. Nets -3 | Top | 96-130 | Win | 100 | 28 h 11 m | Show |
The set-up: No Kevin Durant? No problem! The Nets are floundering right now and I think the rest of the teams steps up and answers the call here at home finally without KD in the line-up. The Jazz have been playing a bit better, but they're definitely inconsistent and thin after Mitchell and Gobert. The pick: Brooklyn is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after four or more SU/ATS losses. Utah is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 road games after scoring 130 or more points in a SU/ATS victory (won 130-108 over the Spurs.) Bank on the desperate home side pulling away down the stretch. This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE BLOWOUT OF THE YEAR on the Brooklyn Nets. |
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01-05-21 | Northern Illinois +16.5 v. Ohio | 73-76 | Win | 100 | 26 h 22 m | Show | |
The set-up: NIU comes in as the more desperate team after starting 1-7. The Huskies have moved on from their former head coach Mark Montgomery and I expect the unit to respond here under Lamar Chapman. The pick: Ohio broke a three-game slide with a 78-68 win over Ball State in its last outing, but with back-to-back games at league-leading Toledo up next, I think the Bobcats get caught looking ahead and take the foot off the gas in the second half. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points. This is an 8* play on Northern Illinois. |
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01-04-21 | Wyoming v. Fresno State -2 | 61-81 | Win | 100 | 15 h 52 m | Show | |
The set-up: Wyoming won the first game of this two game set by a narrow margin and I like the home side to get immediate revenge. Wyoming has now won six in a row and I think it'll finally crack here and have a letdown. Wyoming averages 84.6 PPG, but it only managed 78 in the win over the Bulldogs. The pick: Fresno State had a couple games cancelled due to COVID issues early and since then it's gone 1-3. But now I expect the Bulldogs to finally get back on track here; one player to keep your eyes on is 7-0 Orlando Robinson, who averages 15.6 PPG. I look for Fresno State to bounce back here and be the much hungrier dog in this Mountain West battle. Lay the points. This is an 8* PLAY-BOOK on Fresno State. |
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01-04-21 | Hornets +10 v. 76ers | 101-118 | Loss | -115 | 27 h 24 m | Show | |
The set-up: The Hornets are the hungrier team here, as after winning two in a row, they come to Philly now having lost two in a row, most recently a 127-112 setback to these very 76ers two nights ago. Philly is 5-1 and I think will get caught complacent here vs. its lowly opponent. To say this is a "revenge" game as well would be an understatement, as Charlotte has lost 12 straight in this series. The pick: Philly coach Doc Rivers could rest some starters here as well. Finally note that Charlotte is 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a SU/ATS loss of 15 or more points. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points. This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on the Charlotte Hornets. |