Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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01-04-20 | Titans v. Patriots UNDER 44.5 | 20-13 | Win | 100 | 22 h 10 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Tennessee and New England at 8:15 pm et on Saturday. This projects to be a low-scoring affair between the Titans and Patriots in Foxborough on Saturday night. We've actually won some money playing the 'over' in games involving the Titans this season but Mike Vrabel's squad is in a tough spot here. We know that Bill Bellichick will do everything he can to take away the Titans best offensive weapon, that being RB Derrick Henry. Of course, Tennessee also has emerging superstar WR A.J. Brown, but he should be handled by Pats CB Stephon Gilmore. Of course, New England's offense has seemingly gotten worse as the season has gone on. QB Tom Brady's elbow obviously isn't right, nor is WR Julian Edelman operating at 100%. I do think we'll see the Pats ground game and short passing game find some success in this matchup, but that should only lead to long, clock-churning scoring drives, helping our cause with the 'under'. Take the under (10*). |
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01-04-20 | Bills +3 v. Texans | 19-22 | Push | 0 | 19 h 50 m | Show | |
My selection is on Buffalo plus the points over Houston at 4:35 pm et on Saturday. I'm not too sure the Texans even belong in the playoffs, let alone hosting a game on Wild Card Weekend. DeShaun Watson essentially willed them to just enough wins this season to secure the division title in the AFC South. But we know the Texans have struggled in the playoffs before, and I expect a similar story to unfold here. The Bills bandwagon was all loaded up until they suffered a loss in front of a national audience two weeks ago. We actually won with the Patriots in that contest. Here, Buffalo finds itself in a far more favorable matchup. I don't think the Bills will have much trouble moving the football against a very beatable Texans defense - even as Houston welcomes DE J.J. Watt back to the fold. The Texans have struggled against the pass and struggled against the run this season, and the Bills can take advantage of both weaknesses with QB Josh Allen in line for a big performance. The real kicker here is that I expect to see Sean McDermott coach circles around Bill O'Brien. I'm not sure that advantage is being properly reflected in this pointspread. Take Buffalo (10*). |
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01-04-20 | Bills v. Texans UNDER 44 | 19-22 | Win | 100 | 18 h 8 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Buffalo and Houston at 4:35 pm et on Saturday. I'll take a shot with the 'under' in the first of four NFL Wild Card matchups. I don't think anything is going to come easy for Texans QB DeShaun Watson in this game. The Bills defense has been vulnerable against the run at times, but I don't believe the Texans boast a strong enough ground game to really open up the offense here. The blueprint has already been laid out for slowing Watson - even the Bucs were able to keep him in check in a key late season matchup. On the flip side, the Bills offense doesn't have a particularly high ceiling. Even in games where Josh Allen has erupted, the Bills haven't always put up a boatload of points. I actually feel that both of these teams have a fairly low ceiling as far as point production goes in this contest, which obviously sets us up well with the 'under' as this total has crept up as the week has progressed. Take the under (10*). |
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12-29-19 | Bears -3 v. Vikings | 21-19 | Loss | -125 | 16 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Minnesota at 1 pm et on Sunday. This is an absolute 'lay down' spot for the Vikings playing on a short week with nothing to gain in the playoff picture. The Bears are expected to play their regular starters and should have plenty of motivation with a number of players looking to show up and show out to secure future jobs at the end of a miserable, disappointing campaign. Week 17 can be an extremely tough handicap but the reeling Bears are favored for a reason here in my opinion. Take Chicago (10*). |
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12-29-19 | Jets +1.5 v. Bills | 13-6 | Win | 100 | 15 h 27 m | Show | |
My selection is on New York over Buffalo at 1 pm et on Sunday. I believe the Jets have some upside in this AFC East showdown on Sunday as the Bills are likely to rest most of their starters in Orchard Park. New York of course has plenty of players essentially auditioning for future roles. This matchup sets up beautifully for Jets RB Le'Veon Bell as he looks to put a disappointing campaign behind him and finish on a high note. Keep in mind, as I noted in my analysis of last week's play on the Patriots over the Bills, Buffalo has struggled against the run all season and with mostly backups on the field on Sunday, will have little chance of slowing Bell should the Jets choose to stick to the run. For the Bills, their focus is on the postseason, not the Jets. Take New York (10*). |
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12-29-19 | Dolphins v. Patriots -16 | 27-24 | Loss | -117 | 15 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on New England minus the points over Miami at 1 pm et on Sunday. This is a blowout waiting to happen as the Patriots look to continue to 'get right' prior to the start of the playoffs. Last week's come-from-behind win over the Bills here in Foxborough was a step in the right direction. After facing an 'all hands on deck' Bills squad last week, the Pats should have little trouble brushing aside an undermanned Dolphins team. Miami obviously has nothing to play for but pride at this point and simply doesn't have the pieces or schemes in place on offense to put one over on New England. Look for the Pats to essentially eliminate the Fins passing game and pull away for the win and cover. Take New England (10*). |
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12-23-19 | Packers v. Vikings UNDER 47.5 | 23-10 | Win | 100 | 11 h 33 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Green Bay and Minnesota at 8:15 pm et on Monday. The last time we saw the Vikings on the primetime stage they were involved in a shootout with the Seahawks in Seattle. They also lit up the Chargers for a whopping 39 points in last week's blowout victory. Those two results serve to give us a slightly inflated total here in my opinion. Minnesota is highly unlikely to match last week's production in this late season division game. On the flip side, while the Vikings defense has been inconsistent, I do think they can hold a mediocre Packers offense at bay on Monday night. Since the start of November, Green Bay has scored more than 24 points in a game only once, and that performance came at the hands of an awful Giants defense. I'm anticipating a tightly-contested affair on Monday night in Minnesota. Take the under (10*). |
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12-22-19 | Cardinals v. Seahawks OVER 50.5 | 27-13 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 8 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Arizona and Seattle at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. We are dealing with a high total in this matchup - one of the highest on the Week 16 board in fact - but I believe it's warranted. The Seahawks may be an elite team but they by no means possess an elite defense. Cardinals QB Kyler Murray should be afforded plenty of time to move the football, both through the air and on the ground. Off last week's confidence-building performance against the Browns this is another positive spot for the Arizona offense as a whole. Meanwhile, the Seahawks enjoyed a bounce-back performance of their own last week in Carolina and should see continued success against a very beatable Cards defense Unless the Seahawks completely overlook the Cards, which I don't see happening, they should be able to score at will throughout this game on Sunday afternoon. Take the over (10*). |
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12-22-19 | Saints v. Titans OVER 50 | 38-28 | Win | 100 | 16 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Tennessee at 1 pm et on Sunday. The common line of thinking here is that the Saints offense is in for a rough afternoon in Tennessee, playing on a short week off Monday's blowout win over the Colts. I actually believe we're going to see a shootout here. The Titans are missing both of their starting cornerbacks, which spells trouble as they try to contain all-world WR Michael Thomas, who is coming off another stellar performance. The Saints defense is dealing with some key injurys as well, most notably Rankins and Davenport up front. Of course, the Titans offense has come around since QB Ryan Tannehill took over the reins. He's in for a fine bounce-back performance against a Saints defense that wasn't really tested in their Monday night win over the hapless Colts. UPDATE: Titans RB Derrick Henry is not expected to play due to a hamstring injury. Still confident in the over as I believe the Saints banged up defense can be run on and Tannehill can find success in potential catch-up mode. Take the over (10*). |
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12-22-19 | Ravens v. Browns +10.5 | Top | 31-15 | Loss | -115 | 7 h 58 m | Show |
NFL Underdog Game of the Year. My selection is on Cleveland plus the points over Baltimore at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Browns bandwagon cleared months ago but if there were any stragglers left on board, they surely jumped ship after last week's ugly loss in Arizona. I actually believe that sets us up with considerable line value as they return home to lick their wounds and host the rival Ravens on Sunday afternoon. There was plenty of drama created by last week's loss, with talk of certain players, WR Jarvis Landry included, telling the Cardinals to 'come get me'. Here, I think we'll see the Browns attempt to force-feed Landry and Odell Beckham Jr., even as they face a tough challenge in that of the Ravens. The real key to this game may be Browns RB Nick Chubb. I'm confident he'll have a monster performance against a very beatable Baltimore run defense. Let's not lose sight of the fact that Cleveland has already defeated Baltimore once this season - on the road no less. As much as the Ravens would like to get back at the Browns, as I've said before revenge is a dish best served at home. Baltimore and Lamar Jackson in particular look unstoppable right now, but it is laying an awful lot of points in a divisional road game in late December. Look for the Browns to pull up their socks and show some pride for one week - this is essentially their Super Bowl for 2019. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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12-21-19 | Bills v. Patriots -6.5 | Top | 17-24 | Win | 100 | 27 h 37 m | Show |
NFL AFC East Game of the Month. My selection is on New England minus the points over Buffalo at 4:30 pm et on Saturday. We won with the Patriots in last Sunday's rout of the Bengals and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with them again here, as they return home to host the Bills in a big AFC East showdown. New England's offense remains somewhat broken, or so it appears. I do think we'll see Patriots OC Josh McDaniels scheme his way to some success against the Bills stout defense in this matchup, however. Note that while Buffalo's secondary has been rock solid, it has been vulnerable against the run, giving up 4.5 yards per rush this season. The Pats have no shortage of capable backs that could be in for breakout spots here. Buffalo escaped with a win in primetime in Pittsburgh last week but let's face it, QB Josh Allen didn't look good, and the Pats have had no trouble limiting him in previous matchups. There's absolutely no reason for the Pats to fear the Bills offense in this one, noting that they've held Buffalo to 16 points or less in four straight and six of the last seven meetings in this series. Take New England (10*). |
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12-21-19 | Texans v. Bucs +3.5 | 23-20 | Win | 100 | 23 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on Tampa Bay plus the points over Houston at 1 pm et on Saturday. I like the Bucs plus the points in this Saturday afternoon matchup. The Texans obviously need this one more than the Bucs, who are simply playing out the string, but to be quite honest, I'm not all that high on Houston. Yes, the Texans were able to pull out a big win in Tennessee last Sunday but now they have to stay on the road and play on a short week against a non-conference opponent that simply won't draw the same level of motivation. The Bucs are without their top two wide receivers in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin but don't think for a second that QB Jameis Winston won't continue to air it out. Not only that but the Bucs draw a favorable ground game matchup against a Texans defense that gives up over 4.6 yards per rush. I don't think Tampa Bay will ever be out of this one. Take Tampa Bay (10*). |
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12-21-19 | Texans v. Bucs OVER 50 | Top | 23-20 | Loss | -109 | 23 h 24 m | Show |
NFL Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Tampa Bay at 1 pm et on Saturday. I probably don't need to tell you that this is a shootout waiting to happen on Saturday afternoon in Tampa. The Texans were expected to get involved in a shootout in Tennessee last Sunday but that matchup fizzled somewhat, with Houston ultimately securing a much-needed 24-21 win. Here, I don't think there's any chance of the offenses wilting as both groups are in tremendous position to light it up all afternoon long. Of course, Tampa Bay is missing its top two wide receivers in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin but that only serves to give us a lower total to work with here. QB Jameis Winston will continue to bomb away on his march toward the pass yardage title for 2019. Meanwhile, the Bucs ground game has the potential to also go off against a Texans run defense that is really struggling, giving up north of 4.6 yards per rush. Tampa Bay should be able to effectively limit the Texans ground game but I have full confidence in DeShaun Watson to do enough through the air (and with his legs) to help get this one 'over' the total. Take the over (10*). |
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12-16-19 | Colts v. Saints -8.5 | Top | 7-34 | Win | 100 | 47 h 13 m | Show |
NFL MNF Game of the Year. My selection is on New Orleans minus the points over Indianapolis at 8:15 pm et on Monday. This is an absolute smash spot for the Saints at home in primetime against the reeling Colts. This is precisely the type of spotlight game where Saints QB Drew Brees goes off. The Colts defense has become suddenly non-existent against the pass as they enter this game on the heels of three straight losses. Indianapolis has shown some semblance of a run defense but the Saints offense is more than versatile enough to negate that advantage. Meanwhile the Colts offense has become quite one-dimensional in the absence of WR T.Y. Hilton. While Hilton may return for this game it's difficult to predict how effective he can be after an extended absence. RB Marlon Mack returned last week but was limited and I would suggest that will probably be the case again this week. Look for a monster performance from WR Michael Thomas to pace the Saints offense and we might even see RB Alvin Kamara finally get back on track with a big game catching passes out of the backfield. Take New Orleans (10*). |
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12-15-19 | Patriots -10 v. Bengals | 34-13 | Win | 100 | 17 h 35 m | Show | |
My selection is on New England minus the points over Cincinnati at 1 pm et on Sunday. This is a true 'get right' spot for the Patriots and I fully expect to see them blow the doors off the Bengals. Cincinnati couldn't follow up its first win of the season, falling to the Browns in Cleveland last Sunday. The Bengals have been playing better lately, thanks in large part to the re-emergence of RB Joe Mixon. I simply feel that we'll see the Pats take Mixon out of the equation in this one which should cripple the Bengals offense. The Brady-haters are out in full force these days but I do think Tom will turn in a solid performance here. That's not to mention the Pats ground game, which should shred the Bengals non-existent run defense. It's only a matter of time before New England puts this one away for good. Take New England (10*). |
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12-15-19 | Texans v. Titans OVER 51 | Top | 24-21 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 21 m | Show |
NFL AFC South Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Tennessee at 1 pm et on Sunday. Who would have thought we'd see a game between these two AFC South rivals feature a total north of 50? This is a series that generally features totals in the low-40s. Keep in mind, this will be the first of two matchups between the Texans and Titans in the next three weeks. Both defenses are shells of their former selves, largely due to a number of key injuries. Texans QB DeShaun Watson should have a field day against the Titans suddenly leaky, injury-plagued secondary, even if WR Will Fuller can't go. Meanwhile, QB Ryan Tannehill has earned a new lease on his football life in Tennessee and is set up nicely to tear apart a struggling Texans defense. Of course, RB Derrick Henry, who was plagued by a hamstring injury last week but still put up gawdy numbers, should be able to run wild against a Houston defense that has been particularly bad in recent weeks. It all sets up for a back and forth shootout in Nashville on Sunday afternoon. Take the over (10*). |
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12-12-19 | Jets v. Ravens -15.5 | 21-42 | Win | 100 | 24 h 35 m | Show | |
My selection is on Baltimore minus the points over New York at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. I don't need to tell you that this is an absolutely amazing spot for the Ravens offense as they should shred a hapless Jets defense that is likely going to be without a pair of key cogs in Jamal Adams and Quinnen Williams. Even with Ravens QB Lamar Jackson dealing with an injured quad, there's no chance that the Jets slow him down here. Look for Jackson to run wild, while also feeding Hollywood Brown in what amounts to a blowout in the making. I do think the Jets will find some success offensively, simply due to the fact that the Ravens can't stop the run, but playing in catch-up mode, look for QB Sam Darnold to make enough mistakes to ultimately put this game out of reach for Gang Green. Take Baltimore (10*). |
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12-12-19 | Jets v. Ravens OVER 44.5 | 21-42 | Win | 100 | 24 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Baltimore at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. Everyone seems to be assuming the Jets aren't going to be able to score much at all in this game but I'm not sure that will be the case at M&T Bank Stadium on Thursday night. The Ravens are allowing just shy of five yards per rush this season which opens the door for Jets RB Le'Veon Bell, who should have the backfield all to himself with Bilal Powell expected to miss. Meanwhile, the Ravens should score at will in this mismatch. The Jets defense is undermanned and quite simply banged up, likely missing both Jamal Adams and Quinnen Williams for this one. That opens the door for another monster performance from QB Lamar Jackson. Also look for a re-introduction to WR Hollywood Brown on Thursday night as the Ravens run up the score on the Jets. Take the over (10*). |
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12-09-19 | Giants v. Eagles -9 | 17-23 | Loss | -110 | 24 h 49 m | Show | |
My selection is on Philadelphia minus the points over New York at 8:15 pm et on Monday. The Eagles are a downtrodden football team but they have to feel pretty good about the fact that they're just a game behind the Cowboys for the NFC East lead and a very winnable matchup presents itself as they host the lowly Giants on Monday night. The G-Men are simply playing out the string at this point and will trot out QB Eli Manning in place of an injured Daniel Jones. Manning really is a wild card at this point but it's worth noting that the Philadelphia defense is capable of generating a ferocious pass rush. Manning hasn't been good under pressure in the latter stages of his career. Meanwhile, Eagles QB Carson Wentz should absolutely light up a weak Giants defense that has shown no semblance of a pass rush this season. The Eagles offense is getting healthier with WR Alshon Jeffery coming off a tremendous bounce-back performance against the Dolphins last week. I'm high on Philadelphia rookie RB Miles Sanders as well. He has shown flashes of brilliance in recent weeks and could be in for another big game here. Take Philadelphia (10*). |
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12-09-19 | Giants v. Eagles OVER 44.5 | Top | 17-23 | Loss | -106 | 24 h 55 m | Show |
NFL NFC East Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Philadelphia at 8:15 pm et on Monday. This is an unappealing Monday night matchup between two downtrodden NFC East squads. With that being said, I do think we'll see some offensive fireworks in this one. The Giants will trot out QB Eli Manning for what could be his last ride. While Manning does present a great deal of upside, I do think he can do some damage working with a strong group of receivers, not to mention a returning TE Evan Engram. Keep in mind, the Eagles secondary is bottom of the barrel as far as I'm concerned. On the flip side, this is a smash spot for Eagles QB Carson Wentz coming off a much-needed breakout against the lowly Dolphins last Sunday. Wentz's wide receiver corps is getting healthier and he has a two-headed monster to work with at TE in Zach Ertz and Dallas Goedert. Throw in dynamic rookie RB Miles Sanders and I'm confident we'll see the Philadelphia offense move the football and score at will against a weak Giants defense that doesn't generate any sort of pass rush. Take the over (10*). |
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12-08-19 | Titans -2.5 v. Raiders | 42-21 | Win | 100 | 19 h 1 m | Show | |
My selection is on Tennessee minus the points over Oakland at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. It seems that the Titans have found their quarterback in Ryan Tannehill even if the real story has been RB Derrick Henry, who is absolutely running rampant right now and should continue his torrid pace against a weak Raiders defense on Sunday afternoon. Tennessee isn't about to overlook any opponent, even a reeling one such as the Raiders. Oakland is in a tough spot traveling back home following a beatdown at the hands of the Chiefs last Sunday. Look for the Titans to ultimately pull away for a comfortable win on Sunday afternoon. Take Tennessee (10*). |
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12-08-19 | Redskins v. Packers -13 | 15-20 | Loss | -105 | 16 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on Green Bay minus the points over Washington at 1 pm et on Sunday. This is an absolutely terrific 'get right' matchup for the Packers as they host the lifeless Redskins at Lambeau Field on Sunday afternoon. I don't see Washington offering any sort of resistance on the defensive side of the football while the Packers defense will be eager to bounce back and should feast on a miserable Redskins offensive line. The Redskins aren't the type of team capable of coming back and making things interesting after falling behind big, as I expect them to on Sunday afternoon. Look for a big game from Pack RB Aaron Jones, guiding Green Bay to a lopsided victory. Take Green Bay (10*). |
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12-08-19 | Ravens v. Bills +7 | Top | 24-17 | Push | 0 | 16 h 41 m | Show |
NFL Game of the Week. My selection is on Buffalo plus the points over Baltimore at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Bills continue to get no respect in the betting marketplace, even after last week's rout of the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. Here, I look for Buffalo to keep things close at the very least, and quite possibly win outright. Motivation will obviously be high for the Bills, not only are they hosting this year's 'it' team in the Ravens, but they'll have Doug Flutie making a rare appearance in Orchard Park to be honored as a Bills legend. Last week, Baltimore was able to overmatch the 49ers at home in a bad weather game, in an early start no less. The shoe is on the other foot this time around. Take Buffalo (10*). |
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12-05-19 | Cowboys v. Bears UNDER 43.5 | 24-31 | Loss | -105 | 24 h 39 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Dallas and Chicago at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. After watching a thrilling, high-scoring affair on Monday Night Football, look for completely the opposite on Thursday as the Cowboys and Bears do battle at Soldier Field. The Bears defense has sagged lately but I'm not convinced Dallas' disjointed offense can take full advantage. RB Ezekiel Elliott will get his but Dak Prescott may struggle in hostile territory on Thursday night. Meanwhile, Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky played fairly well on Thanksgiving Day in Detroit but figures to regress once again versus an aggressive Cowboys defense here. The Bears have become completely one-dimensional on offense and that doesn't serve them well against a better than advertised Dallas secondary coming off a poor showing against the Bills last week. Take the under (10*). |
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12-02-19 | Vikings +3 v. Seahawks | 30-37 | Loss | -105 | 11 h 54 m | Show | |
My selection is on Minnesota plus the points over Seattle at 8:15 pm et on Monday. There's not a lot separating these two teams so it's no surprise that we're dealing with a very tight field goal line ahead of their Monday night showdown. I'll grab the points with the underdog Vikings as they come in well-rested and poised to take advantage of a very beatable Seattle defense. The Seahawks own a tremendous home field advantage at CenturyLink Field but it's certainly worth noting that they've already lost games against the Saints and Ravens here at home this season. I don't feel that intimidation will be a real factor against an experienced Vikings group. Seattle comes in riding its longest winning streak of the season, which stands at four games. I believe there's a good chance it ends here. Take Minnesota (10*). |
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12-01-19 | Jets -3 v. Bengals | Top | 6-22 | Loss | -106 | 64 h 10 m | Show |
NFL AFC Game of the Month. My selection is on New York minus the points over Cincinnati at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Jets are in excellent position to add to the winless Bengals' misery on Sunday afternoon in Cincinnati. The New York offense has been quietly racking up points in recent weeks and is an absolute smash spot against a very beatable Bengals defense on Sunday. Cincinnati has been one of the worst teams in the league defending the run this season which really opens things up with the Jets offense and RB Le'Veon Bell in particular. Jets QB Sam Darnold is on a redemption tour after a brutal start to the season and he's in line for another big performance here. Meanwhile, the Jets quietly own the league's best run defense which should severely limit what the Bengals can do offensively. QB Andy Dalton is back as the starter and while he may give Cincinnati a bit of a spark, I'm not sure it really matters at this point. His supporting cast is seriously lacking with WR Tyler Boyd one of the only bright spots. RB Joe Mixon has had a nice run the last couple of games but I don't expect him to play a big role in this one. Take New York (10*). |
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11-28-19 | Saints -6.5 v. Falcons | Top | 26-18 | Win | 100 | 47 h 22 m | Show |
NFL Turkey Day Game of the Year. My selection is on New Orleans minus the points over Atlanta at 8:15 pm et on Thursday. The Saints had a tough time pulling away from the Panthers on Sunday but ultimately did secure the victory thanks in large part to miscues in Carolina’s kicking game. I expect a much cleaner performance from the Saints this week as they travel to face the division rival Falcons in the friendly confines of Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. I like the way the Saints offense has rounded into form with a healthy Drew Brees. There’s reason to believe they can even improve on their recent strong performances with Alvin Kamara in particular in line for a big breakout performance here. Meanwhile, the cupboard is getting pretty bare for the Falcons offense with a number of key cogs banged-up and now forced to play on a short week. The Saints have been able to generate a ton of pressure on opposing quarterbacks and I’m confident they’ll be able to force Falcons QB Matt Ryan into some key mistakes in this contest as well. Atlanta’s ground game is by no means imposing with RB Devonta Freeman once again questionable to suit up. I don’t think there’s any question the offense is missing the likes of Mohamed Sanu and Tevin Coleman right now. I’m not convinced Atlanta can stay in this game for four quarters. Take New Orleans (10*). |
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11-28-19 | Bears -3 v. Lions | 24-20 | Win | 100 | 39 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Detroit at 12:30 pm et on Thursday. It might be time for the NFL to reconsider giving the Lions their annual home game on Thanksgiving Day. In fact, that time probably passed years ago. Mired in another disappointing campaign, there's little reason to have much confidence in Detroit here as it hosts Chicago. Of course, the Bears don't have a great deal of upside either but they do have more going for them than the Lions right now. The Chicago defense should feast on the Lions Jeff Driskel-led offense, with Driskel playing on a bad hamstring and coming off an absolute beating at the hands of the Redskins defense on Sunday. The Bears have done an excellent job of keeping opposing quarterbacks in the pocket and as long as they can continue to do that against Driskel, they'll be in fine shape on Thursday as he simply hasn't proven he can consistently move the chains through the air. There are obviously concerns when it comes to the Chicago offense but I'm not sure it will be asked to do too much in this one. QB Mitchell Trubisky is coming off one of his better performances, even though it did come against the lowly Giants. He draws another favorable matchup here against a banged-up Lions defense. Based on how I expect the Chicago defense to perform in this one, I think we will see Trubisky given some short fields to work with and do just enough to secure the win and cover. Take Chicago (10*). |
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11-25-19 | Ravens v. Rams UNDER 47.5 | Top | 45-6 | Loss | -105 | 22 h 11 m | Show |
NFL MNF Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Baltimore and Los Angeles at 8:15 pm et on Monday. This is being pegged as a potential shootout based on the total we're working with but I don't expect this non-conference affair to play out that way on the field. The Ravens will be hard-pressed to match their last two performances, in which they scored 49 and 41 points against far inferior defenses in the Bengals and Texans. The Rams defense does match up well with the Ravens dynamic offense as they allow just 3.5 yards per rush this season and don't give up a lot of big passing plays downfield. Baltimore and QB Lamar Jackson in particular is certainly in line for a 'come back to Earth' game as it travels across the country for this primetime affair. On the flip side, there's little reason to have a lot of confidence in the Rams offense at this point. This is a unit that has underachieved due to injuries and otherwise all season long and that's unlikely to change against an underrated Ravens defense. Baltimore will give up yardage on the ground but I'm not convinced Los Angeles will be able to take full advantage. The Ravens have been generating a ton of pressure on opposing quarterbacks and have a shutdown tandem in the secondary capable of containing the likes of Kupp, Woods and Cooks. Take the under (10*). |
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11-24-19 | Cowboys v. Patriots -5.5 | Top | 9-13 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 49 m | Show |
NFL Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New England minus the points over Dallas at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. Dallas bounced back with a win in Detroit last Sunday but it will find the going a lot tougher as it stays on the road to face the Patriots in Foxborough this week. Poor weather conditions are expected, which doesn't generally suit QB Dak Prescott and the Cowboys offense well. While Dallas RB Ezekiel Elliott draws a favorable matchup on paper, I feel the Pats will be content to concede yardage on the ground once again, but ultimately do another nice job of keeping the opposition out of the end zone. Offensively, the Pats are banged-up right now but the 'next man up' philosophy has always served them well, and I expect no different here. The Cowboys defense, while elite on paper, has disappointed for much of the campaign, including last week when it allowed Lions backup QB Jeff Driskel to move the football up and down the field. New England QB Tom Brady isn't 100% healthy but I'm anticipating a big performance from the GOAT once again. This is precisely the type of game Bill Bellichick's Patriots get up for and win by margin. Take New England (10*). |
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11-24-19 | Jaguars v. Titans OVER 41.5 | 20-42 | Win | 100 | 22 h 43 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Jacksonville and Tennessee at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. This is by no means a shootout on paper but I do think the Jaguars and Titans can find their way 'over' the relatively low posted total in what could be a sneaky-entertaining affair on Sunday afternoon. Last week, we saw Jags QB Nick Foles throw the ball 47 times in a blowout loss in Indianapolis and I expect him to be let loose once again here as the Titans are likely to stymie the Jags ground attack. That's not to say that Jags RB Leonard Fournette won't be a factor as he should certainly play a role in the Jacksonville passing game. Titans RB Derrick Henry is coming off a big performance last week and should absolutely run wild against a Jags defense that has somewhat surprisingly been torched by opposing ground games for over 5.4 yards per rush this season. QB Ryan Tannehill has played well but still doesn't instill a great deal of confidence. With that being said, since dealing away CB Jalen Ramsey, the Jags are beatable through the air and the Titans coaching staff appears to have full confidence in Tannehill. Take the over (10*). |
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11-24-19 | Seahawks +1.5 v. Eagles | 17-9 | Win | 100 | 19 h 5 m | Show | |
My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Philadelphia at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Eagles are in desperation mode as they host the Seahawks on Sunday afternoon off last Sunday's disappointing narrow loss to the Patriots. I believe Philadelphia will be hard-pressed to bounce back as it deals with a number of key injuries on the offensive side of the football. That's not to say the Eagles can't find some success offensively against a very beatable Seahawks defense, but with RT Lane Johnson officially out and RB Jordan Howard all but ruled out, they'll need a peak performance from QB Carson Wentz. Of course, Wentz doesn't have his full compliment of wide receivers at his disposal. The Seahawks offense has been outstanding all season and QB Russell Wilson should have a field day picking apart the Eagles overmatched secondary. I'm still not sure the Seahawks WR duo and now trio of Tyler Lockett, D.K. Metcalf and Josh Gordon get nearly enough credit. Take Seattle (10*). |
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11-24-19 | Broncos v. Bills -3.5 | Top | 3-20 | Win | 100 | 20 h 37 m | Show |
NFL Blowout Game of the Week. My selection is on Buffalo minus the points over Denver at 1 pm et on Sunday. With Denver nearly pulling off an outright upset as a double-digit underdog at Minnesota last week, it's understandable that the Broncos are only a short underdog against the Bills on Sunday. I believe the Bills are once again undervalued. There's little chance we'll see Buffalo overlook Denver, not after the Broncos gave the Vikings such a serious run last week. I don't like the scheduling spot at all for Denver as it stays on the road for a second straight week, heading to a less than appealing destination in Buffalo. The Bills defense should absolutely feast on the Broncos leaky offensive line, noting that Denver ranks bottom-five in the league in sacks per QB dropback allowed. For their part, the Bills are inside the top 10 in terms of sacks this season. QB Brandon Allen has held his own to this point, but I look for him to get exposed by Buffalo here. This isn't exactly an eruption spot for the Bills offense against a quality Broncos defense, but I do think we'll see them be given enough short fields to inflict some damage on the scoreboard. Based on how I expect the Bills defense to perform in this game, I really don't think we're going to need a whole lot from the offense to ultimately stretch out the margin and put this one out of reach. Take Buffalo (10*). |
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11-24-19 | Seahawks v. Eagles OVER 47 | Top | 17-9 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 49 m | Show |
NFL NFC Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Seattle and Philadelphia at 1 pm et on Sunday. We're being given a favorable total here thanks to the Eagles low-scoring result in poor weather conditions at home against a suddenly punchless Patriots offense last week. Here, I'm anticipating a shootout as the Seahawks roll into the Linc to face the Eagles. Seahawks QB Russell Wilson should enjoy a ton of success against a very beatable Eagles secondary in this one. I continue to profess that Seattle's wide receiver duo (and now trio) of Tyler Lockett, D.K. Metcalf and Josh Gordon is one of the most underappreciated units in the entire NFL. Also look for Seahawks RB Chris Carson to get involved heavily in the passing game in this one as the Eagles have had no success defending opponent's short passing attacks this season. On the flip side, likely forced into comeback mode for much of this game, I do expect a big game from Eagles QB Carson Wentz. The Philadelphia wide receiving corps is undermanned right now but it can involve the running backs and certain the tight ends, who draw a favorable matchup here. Take the over (10*). |
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11-21-19 | Colts +4 v. Texans | 17-20 | Win | 100 | 14 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on Indianapolis plus the points over Houston at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. I'll grab the points with the Colts in a matchup where home field rarely means much and the underdog has thrived, going 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings. What more could you want from the Colts on the road this season? They opened the campaign with an overtime loss against the Chargers in Los Angeles before upsetting the Titans and Chiefs and then falling by just two points in Pittsburgh. Now they square off against a Texans squad reeling off last week's annihilation at the hands of the red hot Ravens in Baltimore. Save for a blowout win over the Falcons, Houston hasn't had an easy time finding the win column at home, with two of its three victories coming by a combined four points. I don't like the way the Texans defense matches up at all against the Colts passing game, which could get WR T.Y. Hilton back on the field on Thursday night. While the Colts defense will have its hands full with QB DeShaun Watson and WR DeAndre Hopkins, I really don't feel that the Texans offense is all that imposing. Watson will need a monumental effort to bounce-back from last week's rough ride against the Ravens. Take Indianapolis (10*). |
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11-18-19 | Chiefs v. Chargers +5 | Top | 24-17 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 53 m | Show |
NFL AFC West Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Kansas City at 8:15 pm et on Monday. We missed the mark (barely) with the Chargers last week as they fell by just two points in Oakland. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with Los Angeles here, however, even if this does appear to be an even tougher matchup. First of all, I'm not sure it actually is a tougher matchup. The Raiders are far better than anyone could have anticipated and last week the Chargers found that out first hand. Unlike the Raiders, the Chiefs don't possess a quality defense. Nor does Kansas City have a consistently productive ground attack. QB Patrick Mahomes returned from injury and looked very 'Mahomes-like' in last week's narrow loss in Tennessee, throwing for a season-high as far as pass yards goes. I simply feel that the Chargers, with their excellent offensive balance led by the re-emergence of RB Melvin Gordon, can go blow-for-blow with Andy Reid's Chiefs, just as they did in their most recent meeting last season - a wild 29-28 victory at Arrowhead Stadium on a Thursday night in December. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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11-17-19 | Bears v. Rams -6 | 7-17 | Win | 100 | 23 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Chicago at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. The Bears pulled out a 20-13 win over the Matt Stafford-less Lions last Sunday but now find themselves in a miserable spot traveling west to face the Rams in primetime on Sunday night. Chicago's offense is still broken as far as I'm concerned and the Rams have the ability to make the Bears completely one-dimensional by taking away their ground attack altogether. The addition of Jalen Ramsey gives the Rams the ability to take away their opponents' best weapon in the passing game and in this case, if they can limit WR Allen Robinson they should be able to absolutely cripple the Bears offense. Rams QB Jared Goff has been far from great this season and will likely be under duress for much of the night on Sunday. With that being said, I'm not sure Los Angeles will need to score points in bunches to pull away for a comfortable win here. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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11-17-19 | Texans v. Ravens -4 | 7-41 | Win | 100 | 16 h 49 m | Show | |
My selection is on Baltimore minus the points over Houston at 1 pm et on Sunday. While this is being pegged as a tightly-contested shootout between MVP candidates DeShaun Watson and Lamar Jackson, I expect it to fizzle with the Ravens imposing their will and winning this one going away. This is arguably the toughest matchup Watson has faced this season, on the road no less. I question whether head coach Bill O'Brien's play-calling can get them there against an elite opponent like the Ravens, to be completely honest. This is a game where the Texans defensive absences, most notably J.J. Watt will really come back to haunt them. At 6-3 I do consider Houston to be a bit of a paper tiger while Baltimore is the real deal, having already taken down the mighty Patriots. Take Baltimore (10*). |
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11-17-19 | Saints v. Bucs OVER 49.5 | Top | 34-17 | Win | 100 | 15 h 29 m | Show |
NFL NFC South Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Tampa Bay at 1 pm et on Sunday. This game has shootout written all over it in on Sunday afternoon. The Saints got caught looking right past the Falcons last week as they could muster only nine points in a blowout loss, at home no less. This is an ideal bounce-back spot, however, as Drew Brees and the New Orleans offense should absolutely ether a weak Bucs defense. WR Michael Thomas has quietly been putting together a record-setting campaign and he should go off in this particular matchup. Meanwhile, the Saints defense is dealing with a number of key absences right now, the least of which being CB Marshon Lattimore, who would have likely shadowed Bucs standout WR Mike Evans. The New Orleans defense simply hasn't lived up to expectations this season and could be in for another rough ride against an increasingly aggressive Bucs offense on Sunday. Take the over (10*). |
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11-14-19 | Steelers +3 v. Browns | Top | 7-21 | Loss | -116 | 12 h 20 m | Show |
NFL AFC North Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh plus the points over Cleveland at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. I have no confidence in the Browns to string together consecutive wins at this stage of the season. Meanwhile, the Steelers have found their identity as a hard-nosed team that runs the football and plays an aggressive, opportunistic brand of defense. Pittsburgh QB Mason Rudolph certainly doesn't instill a great deal of confidence, but he is expected to have RB James Conner back at his disposal on Thursday night and WR JuJu Smith-Schuster is in line for a big breakout performance against a Browns defense that has had no success defending receivers in the slot. The Browns have a quality defense and should be able to get after Rudolph in this one, but what about their offense? It's been a sputtering, turnover-prone unit and while RB Kareem Hunt gave them a boost in his debut, I'm not ready to say that the offense is back. Take Pittsburgh (10*). |
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11-11-19 | Seahawks +6.5 v. 49ers | 27-24 | Win | 100 | 35 h 9 m | Show | |
My selection is on Seattle plus the points over San Francisco at 8:15 pm et on Monday. The 49ers have a giant target on their backs now as they remain undefeated heading into the second week of November. While the Seahawks and their lagging defense will face a tough challenge here, I'm confident they can at the very least take the Niners down to the wire in Santa Clara. We saw some vulnerability from the Niners defense last week against Arizona and I expect that to continue to be the storyline here on Monday as the Seahawks should find considerable success both on the ground and through the air. The San Francisco run defense in particular is in a tough spot with LB Kwon Alexander sidelined for the season with torn pec. That really opens things up for the Seahawks, whose offense is far more effective when it is able to mix in consistent gains on the ground. Offensively, the 49ers are coming off a fine performance but this is by no means a juggernaut. The Seahawks defense has been a swinging gate at times, but should rise to the occasion in this divisional affair. Take Seattle (10*). |
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11-10-19 | Vikings v. Cowboys -3 | 28-24 | Loss | -124 | 11 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on Dallas minus the points over Minnesota at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. The Cowboys are on an uptick right now fresh off a win over the Giants on Monday night. They're in another favorable spot here, back at home in a primetime affair against a solid but vulnerable Vikings squad. I expect the Minnesota offense to struggle at times in this one as it tries to deal with a healthy and improving Cowboys defense. Offensively, Dallas went through a bit of a lull but things appear to be back in order now and at home in a favored role, I look for it to open things up and ultimately pull away for a convincing victory on Sunday night. Take Dallas (10*). |
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11-10-19 | Giants v. Jets +3 | Top | 27-34 | Win | 100 | 15 h 44 m | Show |
NFL Game of the Week. My selection is on the Jets plus the points over the Giants at 1 pm et on Sunday. Things literally can't get any worse for the Jets after they lost at the hands of the winless, supposedly taking Dolphins last week in Miami. I fully expect to see Gang Green bounce back against the rival Giants on Sunday, noting we cashed a ticket fading Big Blue just this past Monday night with the Cowboys. This is an absolute smash spot for the Jets offense against a vulnerable Giants defense playing on a short week. Jets QB Sam Darnold has not played well at all but I still believe he has the tools to succeed in the NFL and I'm confident he'll enjoy a breakout performance against the G-Men and their non-existent pass rush and swiss cheese secondary. Not only is Darnold and the Jets passing game in line for a bounce-back but we should see a big performance from RB Le'Veon Bell as well. Game script kept him from exploding against the Dolphins last Sunday but if the Jets are able to build a lead here, Bell should go off. Take the Jets (10*). |
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11-07-19 | Chargers v. Raiders | Top | 24-26 | Loss | -123 | 25 h 31 m | Show |
NFL TNF Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles over Oakland at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. The Chargers have suddenly found their footing, registering back-to-back wins at Chicago and at home against Green Bay and I look for them to keep it rolling as they face the rival Raiders in Oakland on Thursday night. I really like the way things have come together for the previously underachieving Chargers offense, most notably with RB Melvin Gordon busting out with a big performance against the Packers last Sunday. The door is wide open for this unit to really explode against a beatable Raiders defense on a short week. Oakland does pose a challenge with its own emerging offense but I'm confident the Chargers defense will rise to the occasion. RB Josh Jacobs is the front-runner for offensive rookie of the year but the offense can still only go as far as QB Derek Carr takes it as far as I'm concerned. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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11-04-19 | Cowboys -6.5 v. Giants | 37-18 | Win | 100 | 14 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on Dallas minus the points over New York at 8:15 pm et on Monday. It's been a disappointing campaign so far for the Cowboys but they remain in the driver's seat in the NFC East and coming off their bye week I look for them to handle the Giants at the Meadowlands on Monday night. I have no confidence in the Giants defense to slow the Cowboys offense here. Dallas got healthy on its offensive line thanks to the bye and that should open the door for QB Dak Prescott and RB Ezekiel Elliott to turn in monster performances here. Saquon Barkley will undoubtedly get his, just as he did in the first meeting between these two teams this season, but I'm not convinced rookie QB Daniel Jones will follow suit. Dallas is a perfect 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings in this series, including a win here when it rested its starters in Week 17 last year. Take Dallas (10*). |
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11-03-19 | Browns v. Broncos +4.5 | 19-24 | Win | 100 | 21 h 43 m | Show | |
My selection is on Denver plus the points over Cleveland at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. I really like the value we're getting with the Broncos as a home underdog on Sunday afternoon against the disjointed Browns. Cleveland really has no business laying points against anyone right now. It hasn't lived up to expectations on either side of the football and will likely have trouble traveling to altitude in Denver on Sunday. The Broncos have an efficient running game and a solid defense, a recipe for success as a home underdog. Yes, QB Joe Flacco is sidelined but is backup Brandon Allen really a downgrade? Flacco simply hasn't been a good fit in this offense. I like the upside of the Broncos receiving corps led by Courtland Sutton. Look for Denver to do enough to stay inside the number on Sunday. Take Denver (10*). |
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11-03-19 | Packers v. Chargers +4 | 11-26 | Win | 100 | 21 h 36 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Green Bay at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. Everyone is extremely high on the Packers right now, and for good reason as they're fresh off another statement road win in Kansas City last Sunday night. I just don't like the way this spot sets up for Aaron Rodgers and co. as they stay on the road and head to the west coast to face what has to be a desperate Chargers squad on Sunday. Los Angeles has been highly disappointing this season but there's no question the Chargers still have the talent on board to turn things around. This is obviously a huge step-up spot in a non-conference tilt with a marquee opponent. I'm confident we'll see the Chargers ground attack really get rolling against a beatable Packers run defense. That should set the tone for the rest of the Los Angeles offense, and effectively open things up for QB Philip Rivers. The Chargers defense hasn't been great but could be catching the Packers in a letdown spot off last Sunday night's peak performance. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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11-03-19 | Jets -3 v. Dolphins | Top | 18-26 | Loss | -117 | 17 h 24 m | Show |
NFL AFC Game of the Year. My selection is on New York minus the points over Miami at 1 pm et on Sunday. Everyone is down on the Jets right now but this is a true 'get right' spot against the tanking Dolphins in Miami, and I look for Adam Gase's squad to take full advantage. I absolutely love the 'squeaky wheel' narrative with elite RB Le'Veon Bell calling for more work in advance of Sunday's matchup. Bell will undoubtedly get fed in this one and should absolutely dominate a non-existent Dolphins run defense. QB Sam Darnold has been ridiculed after his 'seeing ghosts' appearance on Monday Night Football but he should have no trouble carving up the Fins struggling secondary on Sunday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Jets defense is serviceable against the Miami offense - which took another step back in a miserable second half in Pittsburgh on Monday night. Take New York (10*). |
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10-31-19 | 49ers v. Cardinals +10.5 | 28-25 | Win | 100 | 13 h 3 m | Show | |
My selection is on Arizona plus the points over San Francisco at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. Most believe a 49ers win is a foregone conclusion in this one as San Francisco checks in with an unblemished record on the season while the Cardinals are coming off a beatdown at the hands of the Saints in New Orleans last Sunday. I don't believe the Niners are built to cover these big pointspreads, however, and here will face an improving Arizona squad that has won three of its last four games and hasn't allowed a first quarter touchdown in its last two contests. The Cards are likely going to be missing their top two running backs for this one but did acquire Kenyon Drake from the Dolphins earlier this week and it really hasn't mattered who they have plugged in at running back, they have performed well. San Francisco will be content to win this division road game, let alone cover the spread. We'll grab the points with a hungry Cards squad that has gone an impressive 5-3 ATS to date. Take Arizona (10*). |
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10-28-19 | Dolphins v. Steelers OVER 43 | 14-27 | Loss | -109 | 11 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Miami and Pittsburgh at 8:15 pm et on Monday. I'll keep it simple with my analysis of this play on Monday night. Both offenses have struggled at times this season, due to injuries and otherwise but I do feel the two units have some upside heading into this one. The Dolphins were finally able to get things going a little bit last week, scoring 21 points against a good defense in Buffalo. WR Davante Parker has now scored a touchdown in three straight games which is saying something for an offense that couldn't do anything earlier in the campaign. RB Kenyon Drake didn't travel with the team as he is likely to be traded before the deadline but his absence doesn't concern me all that much. Look for the Fins to do what they can to move the football through the air in this particular matchup. The Steelers are in a smash spot offensively against an awful, undermanned Miami defense. Pittsburgh will get QB Mason Rudolph back under center following its bye week and I'm confident he'll can march the offense up and down the field against a very beatable opponent. Take the over (10*). |
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10-27-19 | Packers v. Chiefs +5 | 31-24 | Loss | -102 | 26 h 23 m | Show | |
My selection is on Kansas City plus the points over Green Bay at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. The last time we saw the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football they suffered a shocking loss to the Colts. That was with Patrick Mahomes at the helm. Now Kansas City enters this primetime showdown with journeyman QB Matt Moore under center and few are giving it much of a chance against the red hot Packers. I don't expect the Chiefs to simply roll over. Kansas City has been all over opposing quarterbacks this season and Sunday should be no different against the Packers mediocre offensive line. Note that the Chiefs will have DT Chris Jones back at their disposal, and his presence should really limit the Packers ability to rip off big gains on the ground. Green Bay's passing game has held up well in WR DaVante Adams absence, but this could be the contest where that starts to turn. Defensively, the Packers have been abused by opposing rushing attacks, allowing just a tick shy of five yards per rush this season. That opens the door for the Chiefs limited offense in the absence of Mahomes. As we saw last Thursday night against an elite defense in Denver, even Matt Moore is able to find some success with the talent of WR Tyreek Hill on the field. I'm not sure the Chiefs offense will even be asked to do too much to keep this one competitive, but they might just come through regardless. Take Kansas City (10*). |
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10-27-19 | Raiders v. Texans -6 | Top | 24-27 | Loss | -109 | 23 h 34 m | Show |
NFL Non-Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Houston minus the points over Oakland at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. The Raiders are in a really tough spot here, still on the road at the tail-end of what has been an excruciatingly long stretch of games away from home and coming off an epic beatdown at the hands of the Packers last Sunday. Things don't figure to get any easier in Houston on Sunday as the Texans enter a terrific bounce-back spot off last week's divisional loss in Indianapolis. QB DeShaun Watson and the Texans offense should have a field day against the Raiders undermanned defense, which dealt top CB Gareon Conley to Houston earlier in the week. The Raiders haven't exactly waved the white flag just yet, but at 3-3 the time is coming. Offensively, Oakland has been better than expected but with RB Josh Jacobs limited and possibly even sidelined by a shoulder injury, it will be in a really difficult situation here. Jacobs has been a dynamic playmaker but the Raiders don't have much depth in the backfield. While I'm not all that high on the Texans defense, I do think they'll be playing from ahead for much of the day on Sunday, and can gameplan aggressively against mistake-prone QB Derek Carr. Look for Houston to eventually stretch out the margin in this one. Take Houston (10*). |
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10-27-19 | Panthers v. 49ers UNDER 41.5 | 13-51 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 22 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Carolina and San Francisco at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. The Panthers are coming off a wild, high-scoring affair in London two weeks ago as they routed the Bucs in a key divisional win. Here, Carolina hits the road to face the upstart 49ers and could be in for a rough ride against one of the best defensive teams in the league. San Francisco is allowing just over four yards per rush this season and should be able to effectively limit Panthers do-it-all RB Christian McCaffrey. The 49ers pass defense just doesn't give up big plays and that sets them up well against the Panthers downfield passing game led by elite athletes Curtis Samuel and D.J. Moore. I don't expect the Carolina defense to roll over. The Panthers 'd' catches a favorable matchup against a 49ers offense that has been good, but certainly not great this season. QB Jimmy Garoppolo should be under pressure for much of the afternoon with offensive linemen Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey still sidelined. While the Panthers have given up their share of yardage to opposing ground games, the 49ers backfield isn't all that imposing. Expect a tightly-contested affair. Take the under (10*). |
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10-27-19 | Bengals v. Rams -11 | 10-24 | Win | 100 | 19 h 25 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Cincinnati at 1 pm et on Sunday. This one has blowout written all over it as the Rams aim to follow-up last week's 'get right' win over Atlanta and head across the pond for what should be a much-needed distraction in what has been a bit of a tumultuous start to the season. The Bengals are awful. They can't stop the run, continue to deal with key injuries in the secondary, and sport an uneven offense that has been completely handicapped by an ineffictive offensive line. We can count on Rams QB Jared Goff to turn in a second straight solid performance facing little pressure against a non-existent Cincinnati pass rush. Meanwhile, the Rams backfield tandem of Todd Gurley and Darrell Henderson should run wild against a Bengals defense that allows just shy of five yards per rush this season, effectively putting this game away in the second half. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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10-27-19 | Jets +7.5 v. Jaguars | Top | 15-29 | Loss | -140 | 20 h 35 m | Show |
NFL AFC Game of the Month. My selection is on New York plus the points over Jacksonville at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Jets are coming off a dreadful performance on both sides of the football on Monday night against the Patriots. I do feel they'll bounce back here, however, as they head to Jacksonville to face the Jaguars. The Jags defense has been exploited by opposing running backs this season as they check in allowing just shy of five yards per rush. Off a poor offensive showing on Monday, look for the Jets to feed RB Le'Veon Bell in this one. On the flip side, the Jets defense has been exceptional against the run, allowing just north of 3.2 yards per rush. That should severely limit what the Jags are able to do offensively, as despite all the Gardner Minshew hype, QB Leonard Fournette has been, and will continue to be the key to their offense. Take New York (10*). |
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10-24-19 | Redskins v. Vikings -15.5 | 9-19 | Loss | -110 | 35 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Washington at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. It seems as if big pointspreads have become the norm in these primetime games and this Thursday’s contest is no different. Once again, I’m not sure the oddsmakers can set the line high enough as the Vikings should have little trouble brushing aside the lowly Redskins. Washington has such little upside at this point it’s almost laughable. WR Terry McLaurin has arguably been its lone bright spot and while he should get his in this matchup with a beatable Vikings pass defense, that’s no reason to jump off the Vikings in a game that has true blowout potential. We’ve already seen Redskins interim head coach Bill Callahan orchestrate an offensive gameplan centred around the rushing attack, and more specifically RB Adrian Peterson. That gameplan just isn’t likely to work against a Vikings front that has been terrific against the run this season. With the ‘Skins likely to fall behind early, they may be forced to air it out but their comeback potential is limited given the fact that Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer knows former Minnesota QB Case Keenum’s tendencies and limitations. Minnesota will be without WR Adam Thielen for this game and while that’s a major hit, I still see this as a blow up spot for the Vikes offense. QB Kirk Cousins will be given clean pockets all night long against a Redskins defense that hasn’t been able to get to opposing quarterbacks at all this season. Meanwhile, RB Dalvin Cook is in line for another monster performance against a defense that can be run on and has gone nothing to eliminate short passing plays to opposing running backs. With the Vikes likely to dominate the time-of-possession battle, it’s only a matter of time before this one gets out of hand. Take Minnesota (10*). |
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10-21-19 | Patriots v. Jets UNDER 43.5 | Top | 33-0 | Win | 100 | 13 h 53 m | Show |
NFL AFC East Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between New England and New York at 8:15 pm et on Monday. I really like the way this one sets up as a relatively low-scoring affair on Monday night. The Patriots offense is certainly banged-up right now with virtually their entire wide receiving corps nursing various ailments. I expect RBs Sony Michel and James White to be the focal point of the offense on Monday night at the Meadowlands, which plays into our hands as the ground game and short passing attack helps keep the clock moving. We can count on Bill Bellichick and more specifically CB Stephon Gilmore to take away the Jets best weapon through the air, that being WR Robby Anderson. New England will likely allow the Jets to pound away with RB Le'Veon Bell, but to limited success. QB Sam Darnold returned with a big game against the Cowboys last week, but look for him to come back to earth against a familiar divisional opponent on Monday Night Football. Take the under (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Eagles +3 v. Cowboys | Top | 10-37 | Loss | -120 | 24 h 41 m | Show |
NFL Sunday Night Football Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia plus the points over Dallas at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. I absolutely love the way this spot sets up for the Eagles as they try to bounce back from last week’s tough loss in Minnesota. Philadelphia continues to perform at an elite level offensively, despite the fact that it has dealt with a number of key injuries at the wide receiver position this season. QB Carson Wentz remains one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the league and he’s set to expose an injury-ravaged Cowboys defense on Sunday night. Dallas is coming off back-to-back devastating losses, with the most recent being particular painful at the hands of the lowly Jets. With WR Amari Cooper likely to miss and RB Ezekiel Elliott busy running into piles there’s little reason to have much confidence in the Cowboys offense right now. Head coach Jason Garrett is on the hot seat again and I’m not sure that we’ll see the team rally around him this time around. While everyone was singing the praises of Cowboys first-year offensive coordinator Kellen Moore earlier this season, things have gotten stale in a hurry. Look for the Eagles pass rush to take advantage of the Cowboys injuries on the offensive line (Tyron Smith and La’El Collins are expected to miss) and make life difficult for QB Dak Prescott all night long. The case can be made that the wrong team is favored in this one. Take Philadelphia (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Saints v. Bears UNDER 37 | 36-25 | Loss | -101 | 19 h 29 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘under’ between New Orleans and Chicago at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. This is the lowest total on this week’s board, but it’s warranted in my opinion. The Saints keep rolling along without QB Drew Brees but their success certainly hasn’t come on the strength of their offense. In a favorable matchup against the Jaguars last Sunday they managed only 13 points with QB Teddy Bridgewater resuming his role as game manager, throwing for 240 yards and a single touchdown while RB Latavius Murray led the backfield in rush yards with only 44. Alvin Kamara remains banged-up and there’s some doubt whether he’ll even be able to play on Sunday. Either way, I have little confidence in the Saints putting many points on the board against an elite and rested Bears defense that should be in a foul mood following a loss to the Raiders in Oakland. On the flip side, the Bears will welcome back QB Mitchell Trubisky but I’m not counting on big returns against a quality Saints defense. Chicago’s offense has little upside right now and with Saints CB Marshon Lattimore likely to erase WR Allen Robinson and RB David Montgomery still trying to carve out a true lead back role, we can anticipate another (far) less-than-explosive performance at Soldier Field. This one has slugfest written all over it. Take the under (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Jaguars -4 v. Bengals | 27-17 | Win | 100 | 16 h 15 m | Show | |
My selection is on Jacksonville minus the points over Cincinnati at 1 pm et on Sunday. This is a dream bounce-back matchup for the Jaguars off last week’s ugly home loss against the suddenly defensive-minded Saints. The Bengals sit at 0-6 on the season and come in off another tightly-contested loss against Baltimore last week. Off that physical affair on the road I’m not sure how much this injury-riddled squad will have left in the tank this Sunday, nor do I believe its motivation will be all that high against the Jags. No team pressures the quarterback less than the Bengals and that should open the door for a big game from Jags QB Gardner Minshew, who fell out of favor with the bandwagon crowd following last week’s brutal performance against the Saints. Even if Minshew can’t get things going through the air, RB Leonard Fournette should have no trouble exposing a truly awful Bengals run defense. Meanwhile, Jacksonville’s defense catches a favorable draw here against Cincinnati and its dreadful offensive line. Look for the Jags pass rushers to find their way into the Bengals backfield all afternoon long. WR Tyler Boyd is one of the Bengals only offensive pieces that catches any sort of favorable matchup in this one. Yes, Jacksonville dealt CB Jalen Ramsey earlier in the week but he hadn’t been on the field since September anyway. If anything, I see last week’s loss to the Saints as a rallying point for the 2-4 Jags. Take Jacksonville (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Vikings v. Lions UNDER 43.5 | 42-30 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 13 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘under’ between Minnesota and Detroit at 1 pm et on Sunday. With the Vikings coming off a high-scoring affair against the Eagles last week this is an ideal spot to jump back on the ‘under’ as they hit the road to face the Lions, who are playing on a short week following Monday night’s highly-disappointing loss in Green Bay. We’ve seen Minnesota really open up its offense in the last couple of weeks with WRs Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs taking turns going off. Here, I think we can count on a return to form from the Vikings offense as they’ll likely lean heavily on RB Dalvin Cook and even backup Alexander Mattison, who played a key role in last week’s victory. The Lions run defense has struggled at times, including on Monday night when it allowed Packers RB Jamaal Williams to run wild. I do look for Detroit to bounce back in that regard here at home, however, and feel that the Lions pass defense does match up well against the Vikes dynamic tandem of Thielen and Diggs. Detroit got off to a nice start offensively at Lambeau Field on Monday but couldn’t sustain it – a common theme with this offense over the years. Here, the Lions face the unenviable task of playing on a short week against one of the league’s best defenses. Note that Minnesota excels at pressuring opposing quarterbacks and has held opposing running backs well south of four yards per rush this season. Detroit simply has too few reliable options in its passing game to worry me all that much against a good, but not great Vikes pass defense. Take the under (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Cardinals v. Giants OVER 50.5 | 27-21 | Loss | -100 | 16 h 6 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘over’ between Arizona and New York at 1 pm et on Sunday. We have another shootout waiting to happen in a game involving the Cardinals on Sunday afternoon. After cashing with the ‘over’ in last week’s win over the Falcons, there’s no reason to jump ship here. Arizona has the perfect make-up as an ‘over’ team in today’s NFL. The Cardinals offense can move the football in a myriad of different ways and plays up-tempo regardless the situation. Their defense is one of the weakest in the league. I’ll get back to that in a moment. Here we can expect Arizona to absolutely throttled a weak Giants defense that allows just under five yards per rush and have done nothing to slow any opposing pass game with a pulse this season. The Giants offense continues to boast plenty of upside with rookie QB Daniel Jones under center. This week Jones will get some much needed help with the return of do-it-all RB Saquon Barkley. Running backs have absolutely terrorized the Cards defense this season, both on the ground and through the air. Arizona will get CB Patrick Peterson back from suspension this week but how effective he’ll be remains to be seen. I don’t think it’s simply a matter of his return curing all that ails this defense. Take the over (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Rams v. Falcons OVER 53 | Top | 37-10 | Loss | -120 | 16 h 17 m | Show |
NFL NFC Total of the Year. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Los Angeles and Atlanta at 1 pm et on Sunday. This projects as potentially one of the highest-scoring shootouts of the entire season as both offenses come in ready to fully expose the weaknesses of the opposing defenses. The Rams secondary is an absolute mess right now and don’t let their early week acquisition of CB Jalen Ramsey steer you otherwise. Ramsey hasn’t suited up since September and now comes in following a limited week of practice with his new team. His reward will be lining up against Falcons all-world WR Julio Jones who is finally in line for a big breakout performance on Sunday. While the Falcons have been awful in the win-loss column, their offense continues to churn along with QB Matt Ryan posting monster numbers. Nothing changes against the Rams truly disappointing defense this week. On the flip side, we’ve also seen the Rams offense sputter due in large part to the inefficiency of QB Jared Goff, not to mention their offensive line’s inability to pass-protect. That should change here as the Falcons defense has done nothing to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Given a clean pocket I’m confident Goff can tear apart this struggling Falcons defense. After last week’s debacle it’s unlikely the Rams will lean heavily on their ground attack here, instead electing to attack the Atlanta defense through the air. Count on big performances from Kupp, Woods, Cooks et al as this one develops into a back-and-forth shootout. I’m not sure the oddsmakers can set the total high enough. Take the over (10*). |
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10-20-19 | Texans v. Colts | Top | 23-30 | Win | 100 | 16 h 8 m | Show |
NFL AFC South Game of the Month. My selection is on Indianapolis minus the points over Houston at 1 pm et on Sunday. The Texans upset win in Kansas City is still fresh in the minds of bettors while the Colts win on that same field the week previous has been all but forgotten, leading to a favorable line for the home side in this AFC South showdown on Sunday. The bye week came at the right time for Indianapolis as it is expected to have MLB Darius Leonard and WR T.Y. Hilton back at full speed this Sunday. Meanwhile, the Texans defense is in a really tough position with an injury-ravaged secondary, preparing to face Hilton, who has been a real thorn in their side over the years. While I have a lot of confidence in Texans QB DeShaun Watson, not to mention WR DeAndre Hopkins, I have little confidence in anyone else on the Houston offense, nor in play-caller and head coach Bill O’Brien. I simply see this as an excellent spot to fade the Texans off a huge win last week as they head on the road to face a better-coached, and still underrated Colts squad on Sunday afternoon. Take Indianapolis (10*). |
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10-17-19 | Chiefs v. Broncos OVER 48.5 | Top | 30-6 | Loss | -105 | 32 h 20 m | Show |
NFL AFC West Total of the Month. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Kansas City and Denver at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. When these two teams met on this field last October we saw the total settle out around 54 points. That game failed to eclipse that number but here I look for a different story to unfold, at a more favorable number for ‘over’ bettors. The Chiefs defense is a mess. They’re allowing well north of five yards per rush this season, which sets up especially well for the Broncos two-headed backfield attack featuring Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman. The Broncos won’t shy away from pounding the football in an effort to chew up the clock and effectively shorten this game, but I’m confident they’ll break off enough big runs to finish drives with touchdowns on the board. Given the Chiefs highly disappointing and virtually non-existent pass rush, oft-criticized Denver QB Joe Flacco should be able to find some success through the air in this one as well. Kansas City obviously possesses an elite offense, even if it isn’t going to match the numbers it put up during an incredible 2018 campaign. This is an admittedly tough matchup against a quality Broncos defense but off back-to-back losses, you can be sure the Chiefs offense will come out swinging and WR Tyreek Hill certainly looked no worse for wear in his first game back from injury last Sunday. Bettors are very hesitant to play the ‘over’ in this one due to the Broncos knack for getting involved in low-scoring games but that only serves to give us value with the total being set lower than it should be in my opinion. Take the over (10*). |
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10-14-19 | Lions +4 v. Packers | Top | 22-23 | Win | 100 | 14 h 7 m | Show |
NFC North Game of the Month. My selection is on Detroit plus the points over Green Bay at 8:15 pm et on Monday. Simply put, I'm not sure the Packers are as good as their 4-1 record, or last week's high-scoring win over the Cowboys would seem to indicate. They'll be without WR DaVante Adams again on Monday night and with their defense sagging, I'm not sure they'll be able to get past the Lions without a serious fight. Detroit was written off by most before the season even began, and certainly following an ugly season-opening tie in Arizona. Since then, Detroit has been somewhat inconsistent, but has managed to battle its way to a 2-1-1 mark and can gain ground on the division rival Packers with a win here. I like the way the Lions underrated offense matches up against the Packers suddenly struggling defense and on the flip side, I also think the Detroit defense can give QB Aaron Rodgers some serious heartburn here. RB Aaron Jones went off against the Cowboys last Sunday but don't count on a repeat performance here as Matt LaFleur seems determined to give RB Jamaal Williams his share of touches as well, even if it may be to the detriment of the offense. The Lions have two wins to their credit at Lambeau Field since 2015 so there's no real intimidation factor at play here. Take Detroit (10*). |
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10-13-19 | Steelers v. Chargers UNDER 41.5 | 24-17 | Win | 100 | 23 h 46 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Pittsburgh and Los Angeles at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. Pittsburgh is in dire straits on offense right now with both Ben Roethlisberger and Mason Rudolph sidelined. Don't discount the loss of change-of-pace RB Jaylen Samuels either. Simply put, the Steelers offense has been a plodding unit at the best of times this season and now heads to the west coast with that is sure to be a conservative, run-based offensive gameplan. Los Angeles hasn't been great against the run but can focus its defensive focus on slowing RB James Conner and a one-dimensional offense here. The Chargers are somewhat committed to working RB Melvin Gordon back into the fold but there's no question, he didn't look great in last week's season debut. With key injuries on their offensive line the Chargers are limited in what they can do offensively right now. This isn't an ideal matchup against an underrated Steelers defense that can generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and while RB Austin Ekeler and WR Keenan Allen can inflict some damage, I still believe this total will prove to be too high. Take the over (10*). |
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10-13-19 | Falcons v. Cardinals OVER 51.5 | 33-34 | Win | 100 | 26 h 24 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Atlanta and Arizona at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. This game has true shootout potential as the Falcons travel to Glendale to take on the Cardinals. Atlanta was involved in a shootout last week in Houston, ultimately falling well short in a blowout loss. The Falcons offense continues to roll along with Matt Ryan airing it out more than any other quarterback in the NFL. Nothing changes this week as Ryan faces a less-than-imposing Cardinals pass defense that continues to play without corners Peterson and Alford. Not only that but Arizona isn't generating any pressure on opposing quarterbacks which means Ryan should have plenty of time to find his terrific wide receiving corps for big gains. On the flip side, this is a potential blow-up spot for Cards rookie QB Kyler Murray. Like the Cards, the Falcons aren't putting any pressure on opposing quarterbacks and Murray should have little trouble beating them both through the air and on the ground. There are questions whether RB David Johnson will be able to play through a bad back but even if he can't go, backup RB Chase Edmonds showed last week he's more than up for the challenge. Take the over (10*). |
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10-13-19 | Bengals v. Ravens OVER 47.5 | Top | 17-23 | Loss | -110 | 23 h 30 m | Show |
NFL NFC North Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Cincinnati and Baltimore at 1 pm et on Sunday. Both of these teams were involved in tightly-contested affairs last Sunday and while both games went 'over' the total, neither contest was a shootout. Here, I believe the potential is there for a shootout as the Bengals try to stay competitive, and should have a good shot at doing so against an injury-plagued, and struggling Ravens defense. On the flip side, this is a tremendous opportunity for the Baltimore offense to run wild against an awful Bengals defense. Teams have absolutely steamrolled Cincinnati on the ground this season and few teams are set up better to do exactly that than the Ravens. QB Lamar Jackson is coming off a good but not great performance in an overtime win over the rival Steelers last Sunday. Look for him to find the going a lot easier in this one. Take the over (10*). |
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10-10-19 | Giants v. Patriots OVER 40.5 | 14-35 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between New York and New England at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. With word coming out that the Giants will be missing Saquon Barkley, Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard (among others) we've seen a considerable drop in this total (not to mention an ugly weather forecast). I feel it's gone too low. Simply put, I don't expect the Giants to possess the football long enough to churn out long, clock-eating drives in this game. Maybe we'll see the Patriots take their foot off the gas at some point, but even if they do, they'll likely have already contributed enough points to help this one 'over' the number. We're not asking much out of the Giants offense here and I don't believe they'll get completely shut out. Take the over (9*). |
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10-10-19 | Giants v. Patriots -16.5 | Top | 14-35 | Win | 100 | 35 h 42 m | Show |
NFL Thursday Night Football Game of the Month. My selection is on New England minus the points over New York at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. We won with the Patriots as a massive road favorite last Sunday in Washington and there’s little reason to jump ship as they return home on a short week to host the injury-riddled Giants on Thursday night. New York is expected to be without arguably its two best offensive players in this one as RB Saquon Barkley and TE Evan Engram are sidelined with injuries. That leaves rookie QB Daniel Jones in a really tough position going up against a fierce Patriots defense that should have little trouble exposing the Giants offensive line. Even when Jones does have time in the pocket he’ll have few options to work with down field. Maybe WR Golden Tate goes off in his second game back but I highly doubt it. It’s also worth mentioning that WR Sterling Shepard will miss this game after suffering an ugly concussion last week. Offensively, the Pats should be able to do whatever they want against one of the weakest defenses in the league. New York has had an extremely difficult time slowing down any opposing offense other than the lowly Redskins this season and continues to deal with a number of key injuries. The Patriots really didn’t get rolling until the second half against the Redskins last Sunday but still managed to put 30+ points on the board. Expect a sharper performance from Tom Brady and co. here as they roll past the G-Men in Foxborough. Take New England (10*). |
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10-07-19 | Browns v. 49ers UNDER 48 | Top | 3-31 | Win | 100 | 23 h 25 m | Show |
NFL Monday Night Football Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Cleveland and San Francisco at 8:15 pm et on Monday. I absolutely love the way this play sets up on Monday night in Santa Clara. The Browns are coming off an offensive explosion on the road against the division rival Ravens last week but don't count on a repeat performance here. Cleveland came up with the perfect gameplan for that matchup, focusing on quick passes and run plays to beat up on an undermanned and struggling Ravens defense. Now the Browns stay on the road and travel across the country for a matchup with the upstart (and undefeated) 49ers, who have gotten some tremendous defensive play in the early going this season. While the Browns defense is in for some regression here, I do think their defense can hold up well against everyone not named George Kittle on Monday night. Kittle will get his, but look for the Browns 'D' to do a nice job of containing the Niners offense as a whole. Cleveland is getting a little healthier on the defensive side of the football and it matches up well with the middle-of-the-road San Francisco offense. This total has everything to do with the Browns high-scoring result last week and the early season thinking that the Niners would be involved in plenty of shootouts this season. Neither angle is really in touch with reality at this point. Take the under (10*). |
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10-06-19 | Jaguars v. Panthers OVER 40 | 27-34 | Win | 100 | 28 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Jacksonville and Carolina at 1 pm et on Sunday. We missed the mark with the 'over' in the Panthers win in Houston last Sunday but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. The door is open for another big game from Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette with the Panthers now missing DT Kawann Short. Note that even with Short in action, Carolina hasn't fared well against opposing run games, allowing just shy of 4.8 yards per rush. The Panthers are in a strong bounce-back spot offensively after getting held down by the Texans last Sunday. With Jaguars stud CB Jalen Ramsey ruled out once again, look for Panthers QB Kyle Allen to take full advantage. Even the bumbling Broncos offense was able to get rolling against this defense last week in Denver, and this certainly isn't an ideal spot for the Jags playing on the road for a second straight week. Nothing really needs to be said about the Panthers ground game as RB Christian McCaffrey can move the chains regardless the situation. Take the over (10*). |
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10-06-19 | Falcons v. Texans OVER 50 | 32-53 | Win | 100 | 27 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Atlanta and Houston at 1 pm et on Sunday. This game has true shootout potential, even after both of these offenses struggled mightily in last week's contests. With the Texans allowing north of 4.5 yards per carry on the ground, things should open up for Falcons QB Matt Ryan through the air in this one. Houston has one of the weakest secondaries in the entire NFL but held up fine last week thanks to Panthers QB Kyle Allen not testing it with deep passes. We should see a much different story unfold here with Ryan and WR Julio Jones in line for a big game. Atlanta's defense ranks second-to-last in the league in sacks this season and could be in for a long afternoon if it can't generate any pressure on Texans QB Deshaun Watson. WR DeAndre Hopkins has faced a murderer's row of cornerbacks in recent weeks but catches a break here against the Falcons struggling secondary. I've been calling for breakout games from WR Will Fuller for weeks now but it has yet to happen. This could certainly be the spot. Take the over (10*). |
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10-06-19 | Patriots -15 v. Redskins | 33-7 | Win | 100 | 27 h 22 m | Show | |
My selection is on New England minus the points over Washington at 1 pm et on Sunday. The oddsmakers really can't set this line high enough as the Patriots should have little trouble disposing of the Redskins in Washington on Sunday. This could be the end of the line for 'Skins head coach Jay Gruden. The team is in further turmoil this week after word got out that Gruden didn't want the team to draft QB Dwayne Haskins. Colt McCoy will get the start under center this week but your guess is as good as mine as to whether he'll finish the game. The Patriots defense has arguably been the best in football this season and should absolutely feast on a miserable Redskins offensive line. Washington's only real bright spot this season has been WR Terry McLaurin but he's dealing with a hamstring injury and questionable to play after missing last week's game. Even if he can go, he'll face the daunting challenge of Pats CB Stephon Gilmore's coverage here. I'm not even sure we'll need a lot from the New England offense but this is a really nice bounce-back spot off of last week's hard-fought, low-scoring win in Buffalo. Take New England (10*). |
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10-03-19 | Rams v. Seahawks UNDER 49.5 | 29-30 | Loss | -109 | 34 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Los Angeles and Seattle at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. The Rams are coming off a ridiculously high-scoring game in a stunning home loss to the Bucs last Sunday afternoon but I'm not about to write off this defense. Facing a familiar division opponent should be just what the doctor ordered in this 'get right' matchup for the defense. This is by no means an easy challenge as the Seahawks offense has been rolling along but I do think the Rams will be up for it. On the flip side, the Seattle defense is coming off a stellar performance in Arizona last Sunday and will no question feed off the energy of the home crowd here, especially considering the last time they played on this field things did not go well against the Saints. We saw two high-scoring games between these two teams last season but that hasn't been the norm in this series. I'm not sure either squad is interested in a shootout traveling on a short week with a lot on the line in-division. Take the under (10*). |
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09-30-19 | Bengals v. Steelers -3 | 3-27 | Win | 100 | 10 h 54 m | Show | |
My selection is on Pittsburgh minus the points over Cincinnati at 8:15 pm et on Monday. After cashing with Pittsburgh in an ATS but not SU victory in San Francisco last Sunday, I like the Steelers to cover the number again, albeit as a favorite this time around. This is an excellent matchup for the Steelers defense to absolutely tee off on a Bengals offensive line that has struggled to open up running lanes for Joe Mixon while also allowing opponents to get a ton of pressure on QB Andy Dalton. Should the Steelers build a lead they'll be able to pin their ears back and force a key turnover or two as this game progresses. On the flip side, the Steelers offense will likely go back to basics here and let RB James Conner go to work against a Bengals defense that has surrendered a whopping 5.2 yards per rush this season. Last week's matchup wasn't good for Steelers QB Mason Rudolph but he should bounce back against a much more favorable draw here. Cincinnati has not done a good job of generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, recording just five sacks so far this season. Take Pittsburgh (10*). |
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09-29-19 | Bucs v. Rams UNDER 50 | 55-40 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘under’ between Tampa Bay and Los Angeles at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. This total checks in much higher than I expected, largely due to the shootout with the Giants the Bucs were involved in last Sunday afternoon. Here, I look for Tampa Bay to have a tough time getting anything going offensively against an elite Rams defense. Head coach Bruce Arians would be wise to dial back QB Jameis Winston here in an effort to at least sustain some drives and avoid costly turnovers. While Los Angeles has the potential to explode offensively in this one, it doesn’t have a track record of embarrassing the opposition. Tampa Bay has actually done a nice job of holding enemy running backs in check this season and the Rams aren’t likely to completely abandon their ground game in this one, opening the door for some long, clock-churning drives. Take the under (10*). |
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09-29-19 | Bucs v. Rams -9 | Top | 55-40 | Loss | -102 | 26 h 39 m | Show |
NFL NFC Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Tampa Bay at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. This game has blowout written all over it as the Rams return home following a business-like 20-13 win in Cleveland last Sunday night. Los Angeles used a supreme defensive effort to hold off a hungry Browns squad in that one but here should be able to get loose offensively, particularly through the air against a struggle Bucs pass defense. On the flip side, I don’t see the Bucs accomplishing much in this one with the Rams outstanding secondary likely to take care of business against the dynamic duo of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Tampa Bay’s ground game is a virtual non-factor and playing from behind on Sunday isn’t likely to change that. Look for another dominant performance from the Rams as they remain undefeated with another convincing win. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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09-29-19 | Panthers v. Texans OVER 47 | 16-10 | Loss | -115 | 23 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘over’ between Carolina and Houston at 1 pm et on Sunday. We won with the ‘over’ in the Panthers blowout win in Arizona last week while just missing with the same play in the Texans impressive road win over the Chargers. The latter game appeared headed well north of the total before things ground to a halt in the fourth quarter. I’m not anticipating a similar story to unfold here. This is another fine matchup for Panthers backup QB Kyle Allen, who delivered a truly impressive performance, albeit against a very beatable Cardinals defense last week. The Panthers speed at the wide receiver position is likely to give the Texans fits here while RB Christian McCaffrey should have little trouble both on the ground and through the air against a defense that has been very vulnerable against opposing running backs this season. It’s always a bit of a leap of faith when supporting the Texans offense, due to a couple of reasons, the least of which being the play-calling of Bill O’Brien and the other the issues on the offensive line. Houston did seem to sort out its o-line issues in last week’s game and the pure talent of QB Deshaun Watson and WR DeAndre Hopkins always helps limit the worry around this offense in general. Take the over (10*). |
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09-29-19 | Chiefs -7 v. Lions | 34-30 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on Kansas City minus the points over Detroit at 1 pm et on Sunday. Perhaps due to their weak defense and the surprising start of the Lions, the Chiefs remain a relatively short road favorite in Detroit on Sunday afternoon. We won with the Lions in their upset victory in Philadelphia last week but that had more to do with the Eagles laundry list of injuries than anything else. This may be a showdown between two undefeated teams but they really couldn’t be at much more opposite ends of the spectrum offensively. The Chiefs just keep rolling along and catch the Lions in a tough spot with a number of key injuries on the defensive side of the football, the least concerning of which to CB Darius Slay. QB Patrick Mahomes should be in for another monster performance in ideal conditions at Ford Field on Sunday afternoon. Kansas City’s struggles defending the run will likely encourage the Lions, already a ‘run-first’ team, to pound the football on the ground here, but it’s the wrong move in my opinion as Detroit simply won’t be able to keep pace with an explosive Chiefs offense by running the football. Take Kansas City (10*). |
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09-29-19 | Redskins v. Giants OVER 48.5 | Top | 3-24 | Loss | -108 | 23 h 33 m | Show |
NFL NFC East Total of the Year. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Washington and New York at 1 pm et on Sunday. We won with the ‘over’ in the Redskins ugly, turnover-fueled blowout loss to the Bears on Monday night and I won’t hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. Washington will certainly be taking a step down in class against the Giants defense, which has been repeatedly abused by opposing offenses this season. There’s no help coming for the G-Men in that department, in fact things could get even worse due to injuries at the linebacker position. Meanwhile, the New York offense got a major boost from rookie QB Daniel Jones last Sunday in Tampa and he’s primed for another big performance here. We saw New York TE Evan Engram absolutely explode against the Bucs last week and we can count on more of the same against the Redskins weak pass defense here. Even with the absence of all-world RB Saquon Barkley, look for the Giants offensive resurgence to continue for another week. Take the over (10*). |
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09-26-19 | Eagles v. Packers OVER 46 | 34-27 | Win | 100 | 23 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Philadelphia and Green Bay at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. The Packers offense has seemingly gotten better with each passing week in this, the first year of the Matt LaFleur era. That's not saying a lot as they've topped out at 27 points, but I see this as an absolute smash spot against a struggling and undermanned Eagles defense on Thursday night. The Philadelphia secondary is injury-ravaged and it certainly showed in last week's 27-24 loss to the previously offensively-challenged Lions, at home no less. It's hard to envision the Eagles figuring things out defensively playing on the road on a short week. On a positive note, Philadelphia is expected to have WR Alshon Jeffery back in the fold after he missed last week's game. I still have confidence in the Eagles offense, even with the rash of injuries that unit has dealt with. Note that while the Packers defense has been outstanding, they have still managed to allow exactly 16 points in back-to-back home games against the Vikings and Broncos, with opposing quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Joe Flacco turning in dismal performances. I do think we'll see the Eagles beat that point production in this one, which should put us in good position to cash our 'over' ticket. Take the over (10*). |
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09-23-19 | Bears v. Redskins OVER 41 | 31-15 | Win | 100 | 82 h 12 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Chicago and Washington at 8:15 pm et on Monday. The Bears offense has looked downright awful through two games this season but you have to consider the fact that they've had a tough draw, facing two tough defensive opponents in the Packers (who have been better than expected in that department) and the Broncos (in Denver). Here, I look for the Chicago offense, and QB Mitch Trubisky in particular, to get loose against a Redskins defense that has been awful for the most part through two games. Washington has played reasonably well defensively for stretches but even with that, has still given up a whopping 63 points. The Redskins have allowed 4.7 yards per rush so far this season and that should really help open things up for RB David Montgomery, who is coming off a nice performance last week in Denver. Chicago will be a popular road favorite play here but I'm not convinced it will be able to run away and hide on what will certainly be a highly-motivated and desperate Redskins squad off to an 0-2 start. Redskins QB Case Keenum has actually played pretty well when his team has been trailing in the early going this season, closing each of the last two games with late fourth quarter touchdown passes. He and WR Terry McLaurin have built a nice chemistry and can have continued success, even in a tough matchup here. Take the over (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Rams -3 v. Browns | 20-13 | Win | 100 | 59 h 34 m | Show | |
My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Cleveland at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. This is a tough spot for the Browns, returning home on a short week to face one of the league's best teams, and potentially doing so without a number of key cogs. Cleveland enters this game banged-up after Monday's win over the Jets, losing TE David Njoku and OLB Christian Kirksey to injuries in that game. The Rams come in relatively healthy and off an easier-than-expected home win over the Saints thanks to Drew Brees' injury. The Browns will certainly be up for this opportunity to prove that all of the preseason hype was warranted but the fact is, they haven't looked very good through two games, and I don't believe they can hang around for 60 minutes against a vastly superior team. Yes, Rams QB Jared Goff has struggled in games such as this, on the road in primetime, but that has little bearing here as he's a more experienced quarterback now and figures to have learned how to better handle these situations. Los Angeles is well-positioned to move to 3-0 on Sunday night. Take Los Angeles (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Texans v. Chargers OVER 48 | 27-20 | Loss | -119 | 55 h 55 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘over’ between Houston and Los Angeles at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. This is another game that has major shootout potential on Sunday afternoon. The Texans are coming off one of the uglier games we’ve seen through the first two weeks of the season last week, barely eking out a win over the Jaguars at home. Here, I look for a much more explosive performance against a Chargers defense that has struggled in the early going this season, particularly against the run. It’s that lack of run defense (allowing over five yards per rush) that should open the door for Watson to have a monster day. Los Angeles simply doesn’t have anyone in the secondary that can contend with WR DeAndre Hopkins or even Will Fuller. On the flip side, the Chargers offense had a tough time in Detroit last week but catches a soft draw here as the Texans have allowed opposing rushers to gain 5.5 yards per rush. RB Austin Ekeler has made Chargers fans forget all about contract holdout Melvin Gordon and should continue to play a major factor in this week’s game against Houston. QB Philip Rivers hasn’t appeared to miss a step and should have little trouble tearing apart a weak Texans secondary with the help of WR Keenan Allen, who is healthy and appears to be in midseason form. I’m confident the losing squad gets well into the 20’s which suits our purposes just fine. Take the over (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Steelers +7 v. 49ers | 20-24 | Win | 100 | 55 h 52 m | Show | |
My selection is on Pittsburgh plus the points over San Francisco at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. Most are quick to write off the Steelers after losing QB Ben Roethlisberger for the season in last week’s home loss to the Seahawks. I’m not sure we’re going to see much of a dropoff in offensive production with backup QB Mason Rudolph at the helm, however. It’s not as if Big Ben was lighting it up for the Steelers in early action this season. In fact, it was Rudolph that gave the team a major spark and moved the football at will after entering last week’s game. It appears Steelers RB James Conner will be good to go this week after an injury scare. Even if he can’t, the Steelers have excellent depth at the position with Jaylen Samuels a dynamic playmaker as well. San Francisco came up with a nice blowout win in Cincinnati last week, moving to a surprising 2-0 on the season. Let’s not get carried away with that result, however, as the Bengals figure to be a bottom-tier team. The Steelers aren’t about to completely shut down the 49ers offense on the road this week, but I do look for them to bounce back from consecutive awful performances against the Patriots and Seahawks in what was certainly a difficult two-game slate to open the campaign. Simply put, we’re being given too many points in a game that could go either way. Take Pittsburgh (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Saints v. Seahawks -4 | 33-27 | Loss | -110 | 55 h 50 m | Show | |
My selection is on Seattle minus the points over New Orleans at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. New Orleans stays on the west coast for a second straight week after suffering a loss against the Rams in Los Angeles last Sunday afternoon. The Saints will have to go forward without their heart and soul, QB Drew Brees, and that doesn’t bode well as their backups Teddy Bridgewater and Taysom Hill represent a major dropoff in talent (and likely production) as far as I’m concerned. Head coach Sean Payton wouldn’t even confirm that Bridgewater is his starter for this game and that’s not encouraging. Yes, the Saints still have plenty of talent, but this is a tough draw against a Seahawks squad that is off to a terrific start to the season. Seattle’s defensive strength has been against the run in the early going this season, holding the opposition to 3.75 yards per rush. If the Seahawks can keep Saints RB Alvin Kamara in check in this one that will obviously go a long way toward securing a victory. New Orleans hasn’t shown any semblance of a run defense through two games, giving up nearly six yards per rush and things aren’t going to get any easier now that LB Alex Anzalone is sidelined. The Seahawks offensive balance should give the Saints defense fits in this game and it’s hard not to like what we’ve seen from QB Russell Wilson who is off to one of the best starts of his career. He and WR Tyler Lockett are completely in sync right now and the Saints will be hard-pressed to keep them in check here. Take Seattle (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Panthers v. Cardinals OVER 43.5 | Top | 38-20 | Win | 100 | 55 h 39 m | Show |
NFL NFC Total of the Month. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Carolina and Arizona at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. With the Panthers likely to be without QB Cam Newton and both of these teams coming off relatively low-scoring ‘under’ results last week, we’re being given a very reasonable total to work with here. I’m actually anticipating a bit of a shootout to develop here and will gladly play the ‘over’ at the number being offered. Panthers backup QB Kyle Allen doesn’t really represent much of a downgrade from Newton considering how hobbled Cam looked in the early going this season. The Panthers still possess an excellent wide receiver corps not to mention one of the best running backs in the league in Christian McCaffrey. This is an excellent breakout spot for the Panthers offense against a Cardinals defense that has looked awful without Patrick Peterson and Robert Alford roaming the secondary. Carolina was expected to take a big step forward defensively considering the personnel moves it made in the offseason but so far, not so good as it has allowed opposing rushers to gain over 4.5 yards per rush and has by no means been a shut down unit against the pass. The Cardinals had a tough draw against the Ravens defense in Baltimore last Sunday but should bounce back here at home. Kyler Murray has turned in back-to-back 300+ yard passing games to open his career and he and WR Larry Fitzgerald should have a field day against the Panthers defense on Sunday afternoon. Don’t forget about Cards RB David Johnson either, who should have little trouble tuning up the Panthers struggling run defense. Take the over (10*). |
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09-22-19 | Raiders v. Vikings -8 | Top | 14-34 | Win | 100 | 52 h 43 m | Show |
NFL Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Oakland at 1 pm et on Sunday. Fresh off an ugly loss against the rival Packers at Lambeau Field last Sunday this is an ideal ‘get right’ spot for the Vikings back home against the Raiders. Oakland got manhandled by the Chiefs in a game that could have been even more lopsided had Kansas City not taken its foot off the gas last week. Now the Raiders have to travel two time zones east for an early 12 noon local start on Sunday afternoon. There’s not much to get excited about when it comes to the Raiders offense and this is a brutal matchup against what will be a highly-motivated and ultra-talented Vikings defense. Minnesota employs a ‘run-first’ offense to be sure, but that’s fine as RB Dalvin Cook has arguably been the best back in football so far this season. He should have little trouble putting this game away when called upon on Sunday afternoon but before that look for QB Kirk Cousins to bounce back from last week’s no-show in Green Bay with an efficient afternoon under center. Take Minnesota (10*). |
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09-19-19 | Titans v. Jaguars UNDER 39.5 | 7-20 | Win | 100 | 23 h 41 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Tennessee and Jacksonville at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. This total is about as low as it gets in today's NFL but it's warranted in my opinion. We're talking about two teams that have no interest in speeding things up due in large part to their 'game manager' quarterbacks. Titans QB Marcus Mariota missed practice earlier this week and might not be at full speed on Thursday night, further hampering an already-below average Tennessee offense. Yes, RB Derrick Henry absolutely ran wild against the Jags in a Thursday night matchup last December but don't count on history repeating itself here. The Jags have already had their season derailed, first with the injury to QB Nick Foles and then with star corner Jalen Ramsey asking to be traded. For now Ramsey is still on the team and he should play a big part in slowing the Titans on Thursday night. Tennessee's defense catches a matchup it can handle here with Jags backup QB Gardner Minshew a 'dink-and-dunk' type of player. Look for the Titans to stack the box against Jags RB Leonard Fournette and force Minshew to beat them through the air in this one. Take the under (10*). |
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09-16-19 | Browns -6 v. Jets | 23-3 | Win | 100 | 22 h 0 m | Show | |
My selection is on Cleveland minus the points over New York at 8:15 pm et on Monday. This is essentially a must-win game for the Browns facing a Jets squad that will be missing its starting quarterback Sam Darnold among others. While New York does still have some upside with RB Le'Veon Bell cleared to play after undergoing an MRI on his shoulder last week, we can count on the Browns focusing their entire defensive gameplan on taking Bell away and forcing backup QB Trevor Siemian to beat them. Note that Bell played 100% of the snaps in the Jets Week 1 loss against Buffalo. It's hard to say if he'll be as explosive here given he didn't play a single snap a year ago. Cleveland's offensive line is terrible. Let's get that straight. I do believe we'll see QB Baker Mayfield turn in a strong bounce-back performance here, however, as his terrific wide receiving corps should have a field day against a weak Jets secondary. RB Nick Chubb is more than capable of putting this game away against an undermanned Jets run defense that is missing a couple of key cogs in C.J. Mosley and Quinnen Williams. Take Cleveland (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Eagles v. Falcons OVER 52.5 | 20-24 | Loss | -108 | 23 h 52 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Philadelphia and Atlanta at 8:20 pm et on Sunday. This has the potential to be a fun Sunday night shootout between two NFC squads coming off much different results last week. Philadelphia needed a big second half rally to outlast Washington, at home no less. While the Eagles offense got rolling as the game progressed, we saw some major cracks in their defensive armor, particularly in the secondary - as expected. The Eagles vaunted pass rush was a no-show and if they can't right the ship here they'll be in for a long night against a still-loaded Falcons offense that is in line for a strong bounce-back performance at home. Atlanta couldn't get anything going last week in Minnesota and the Vikings controlled proceedings thanks to a highly-effective ground game. Here, I do look for the Falcons to see a lot more opportunities on offense - and to make the most of those with WR Julio Jones in line for a monster performance against a very beatable Eagles secondary. Last week's primetime games were generally low-scoring but I look for a different story to unfold here. Take the over (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Chiefs -7 v. Raiders | Top | 28-10 | Win | 101 | 19 h 5 m | Show |
AFC West Game of the Year. My selection is on Kansas City minus the points over Oakland at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. We won with the ‘over’ in the Chiefs season-opening win in Jacksonville and I won’t hesitate to get involved in their Week 2 game as well, laying the points in this spot. Kansas City looked every bit as dominant offensively as it did a year ago last week against the Jaguars, putting up 40 points without barely breaking a sweat. With that being said, the news wasn’t all good as the Chiefs did lose WR Tyreek Hill to an injury that will cost him at least a month of action. It’s obviously not the end of the world, however, as Kansas City is by no means short on offensive depth. WR Sammy Watkins turned in one of the best performances of Week 1 and now it might just be rookie WR Mecole Hardman’s turn to bust out. Regardless how the Chiefs choose to attack the Raiders defense, I’m confident they’ll have plenty of success, noting that they scored 75 points in two meetings with Oakland last season. The Raiders are coming off a win but I certainly didn’t come away overly impressed as they were essentially handed that game by the Broncos, who simply didn’t show up. QB Derek Carr was efficient in the win but again relied on a slow-paced, conservative offensive gameplan – something that simply isn’t going to translate success against a Chiefs squad that can seemingly score at will. Oakland’s Monday night victory was probably the best thing we could have hoped for as it helps to keep this line in check. The Chiefs have blowout potential most weeks and this one is no exception. Take Kansas City (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Cardinals v. Ravens OVER 46 | 17-23 | Loss | -109 | 16 h 4 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘over’ between Arizona and Baltimore at 1 pm et on Sunday. Most are quick to dismiss the Ravens’ 59-point outburst in Miami last week, citing the fact that the Dolphins are the worst team to grace the NFL in quite some time. While there may be some truth to that, this matchup actually sets up almost as well for the Ravens offense as they return home in excellent position to crush the Cardinals below-average defense. Arizona allowed Lions QB Matt Stafford to throw for just shy of 400 yards last week, albeit aided by overtime. As long as Patrick Peterson and Steven Alford remain sidelined, the Arizona defense is going to have a nightmarish time trying to slow down opposing passing games. Lost in the Ravens air show last week was the fact that RB Mark Ingram gained 107 yards and scored two touchdowns on just 14 carries. Cards rookie QB Kyler Murray got off to a rough start to his NFL career last week but did settle in as the game progressed and ultimately developed a nice rapport with Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk. Murray catches a break here, facing the Ravens without their secondary at full strength after losing Tavon Young and Jimmy Smith. Of course the Cardinals offensive line remains a concern but in a game that projects to be lopsided in favor of Baltimore, I suspect Murray will have ample opportunity to air it out, noting that the Cards play at an extremely quick tempo. I’m not all that comfortable laying double-digits at this early stage of the season so instead we’ll bank on the Ravens doing their thing offensively while the Cards contribute enough to help this one ‘over’ the reasonable total. Take the over (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Colts v. Titans UNDER 44 | 19-17 | Win | 100 | 16 h 50 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Indianapolis and Tennessee at 1 pm et on Sunday. This has the potential to be one of the lowest-scoring games on the board in Week 2 after both teams saw relatively high-scoring results in Week 1. Both the Colts and Titans are going to employ "run-first" offenses this year, and that was evident last week. While I do believe Colts RB Marlon Mack and Titans RB Derrick Henry can both find some room to run (and catch) in this particular matchup, I don't think that's a bad thing for us as it helps keep the clock moving. I do question whether we'll see quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Marcus Mariota end a lot of drives with 7's on the board rather than 3's. Note that the Colts lost WR Devin Funchess to broken collarbone last week after he had gotten off to a nice start with Brissett. Meanwhile, the Titans pass-catching group is as weak as it gets once you move from TE Delanie Walker, who has served as Mariota's security blanket, so to speak. I believe we're getting a favorable total here thanks to an overreaction to Week 1 results. Take the under (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Patriots v. Dolphins UNDER 49 | 43-0 | Win | 100 | 15 h 27 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between New England and Miami at 1 pm et on Sunday. Most are expecting an absolute annihilation in this game, and rightfully so. With that being said, I prefer to focus on the total, where I think there is considerable value with the 'under'. Keep in mind, Dolphins head coach Brian Flores is a disciple of Bill Bellichick and I'm not convinced Bill will be all that interested in running up the score in this particular matchup. The Dolphins got caught flat-footed defensively against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens last week. I look for them to come in a little better-prepared to face the division rival Patriots here. Offensively, don't count on the Dolphins gaining any sort of traction against a still-underrated Patriots defense. Miami couldn't get much going last week and will find the going even tougher in this one. Look for the Dolphins to make a concerted effort to control the clock and do everything they can to keep Tom Brady off the field. It won't translate to a win, but I do look for it to result in a lower-scoring contest than most are expecting. Take the under (10*). |
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09-15-19 | Seahawks v. Steelers OVER 46.5 | Top | 28-26 | Win | 100 | 16 h 2 m | Show |
NFL Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the ‘over’ between Seattle and Pittsburgh at 1 pm et on Sunday. I absolutely love the way this game sets up as a high-scoring affair at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. The Seahawks got more than they bargained for at home against the Bengals last Sunday but did manage to pull out a 21-20 victory. The fact that they allowed only 20 points in that contest was a flattering result based on how their defense actually played on the field. The Steelers defense took a beating at Foxborough last Sunday night, suffering an ugly 33-3 loss. This is a more favorable draw at home facing a Seahawks team traveling from the west coast but I still expect Pittsburgh to give up its share of points in this one. Look for strong performances from QB Russell Wilson and WR Tyler Lockett in as Lockett matches up tremendously well and will be eager to rebound following last Sunday’s no-show (the Bengals defense keyed on him early and never let up). The Steelers were taken completely out of their gameplan last Sunday night as they fell behind early and never recovered. I don’t believe there’s any reason to panic, however, as Pittsburgh boasts a loaded offense that should thrive in this matchup. RB James Conner and WR JuJu Smith-Schuster are two of the game’s best players at their respective positions and JuJu in particular should have no trouble breaking loose against a weak Seattle secondary, which in turn should set things up nicely for Conner in a game where he should see heavy usage. This one has all the makings of a shootout. Take the over (10*). |
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09-12-19 | Bucs v. Panthers OVER 48.5 | Top | 20-14 | Loss | -115 | 23 h 32 m | Show |
NFC South Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Tampa Bay and Carolina at 8:20 pm et on Thursday. Most of the trends may be pointing to a relatively low-scoring result between these winless NFC South rivals on Thursday night, but I'm confident we'll see some offensive fireworks and believe the total will prove too low. The Bucs couldn't have looked much worse in last week's season-opening 31-17 loss to the 49ers. That game was pegged as a shootout but it never materialized due in large part to four Tampa Bay turnovers. QB Jameis Winston obviously needs to be better if the Bucs are to have any shot at upsetting the Panthers on Thursday night and I'm confident he will be. Note that after being held to less than 20 points in five straight meetings, Tampa Bay scored 28 and 24 points in two matchups with Carolina last year. Virtually all of the Bucs key pieces on offense are healthy entering this game after WR Mike Evans was slowed by illness last week. TE O.J. Howard and WR Chris Godwin in particular are due for strong bounce-back performances here as Tampa Bay likely finds itself in catch-up mode for most of this game. I fully expect to see the Carolina offense move the football and score at will on the Tampa Bay defense in this one. The Bucs pass rush was completely non-existent against the 49ers last week and while San Francisco wasn't really in great position to take full advantage, Carolina will be. Cam Newton should have little trouble bouncing back from an uneven performance last week with a clean pocket to work with on Thursday night. RB Christian McCaffrey draws an extremely favorable matchup as well, noting that he ran for 185 yards and two touchdowns on 27 carries against Tampa in two meetings last year. We saw an absolute snooze-fest last Thursday night but I expect a different story to unfold here. Take the over (10*). |
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09-09-19 | Broncos -2 v. Raiders | 16-24 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 48 m | Show | |
My selection is on Denver minus the points over Oakland at 10:15 pm et on Monday. The Raiders are saying all the right things after releasing Antonio Brown on Saturday, suggesting they're better off without all the drama Brown had stirred up. It's all smoke and mirrors as far as I'm concerned though. This is a bad Raiders squad, and one that gets considerably worse without Brown. Oakland will have little hope of keeping QB Derek Carr upright without their two starting guards, especially considering they'll be facing the Broncos vaunted pass rush led by sophomore Bradley Chubb and all-world Von Miller. I don't have a great deal of faith in QB Joe Flacco at this stage of his career but I also don't think he'll be asked to do too much for Denver on Monday night, or this season in general. Look for the Broncos to grind away on offense while their defense takes care of the rest, earning them a key AFC West win to open the season. Take Denver (10*). |