Last edited by Can'tPickAWinner; 08-22-2014 at 08:19 AM.
Today's CFL Picks Montreal at Winnipeg The Alouettes head to Winnipeg this week to face a Blue Bombers team that is 3-9-1 ATS in its last 13 home games. Montreal is the pick (+7 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Blue Bombers favored by only 4. Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+7 1/2). Here are all of this week's CFL picks. FRIDAY, AUGUST 22 Time Posted: 7:00 a.m. EST (8/19) Game 291-292: Montreal at Winnipeg (8:30 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 105.318; Winnipeg 109.414 Dunkel Line: Winnipeg by 4; 46 Vegas Line: Winnipeg by 7 1/2; 50 Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+7 1/2); Under
Doc Sports
1* Bears +7
Vegas Sports Informer
2* Lions -3
Robert Ferringo
2* Lions -3
Game of the Day: Alouettes at Blue Bombers
Montreal Alouettes at Winnipeg Blue Bombers (-7, 49.5)
The Montreal Alouettes have a chance to halt their five-game losing streak when they visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday. Winnipeg looks vulnerable after losing its last two games, while Montreal desperately needs a victory to turn around its floundering season. West Division teams are 20-3 against the East in 2014, but the Blue Bombers allowed 38 points in a loss to the Toronto Argonauts in Week 8.
Winnipeg’s defense allowed 360 rushing yards over its last two contests, which bodes well for an Alouettes' offense without a reliable option at quarterback. Alex Brink is expected to get the start for Montreal, which will likely lean heavily on running backs Brandon Whitaker and Tyrell Sutton. Drew Willy will be under center for the Blue Bombers, who need to avoid adding to their league-worst turnover ratio and force the Alouettes to score touchdowns on offense.
TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, TSN
LINE HISTORY: Oddsmakers opened the Bombers as 7-point home faves for the matchup. The total opened at 50.5.
INJURY REPORT: Alouettes - QB Troy Smith (Six-game IR, undisclosed).
WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "The Bombers have certainly regressed since their hot start to the season but I'm not sure the betting marketplace has made the necessary adjustment. Montreal has played better in consecutive weeks, against two of the league's best teams in the Eskimos and Riders. Not a bad spot for the Als here if their offense can finally show up." Covers Expert Sean Murphy.
ABOUT THE ALOUETTES (1-6): Brink has not thrown a touchdown pass since 2012, but Troy Smith is on the six-game injured list and Tanner Marsh has thrown for 17 yards in 2014. Wide receiver Duron Carter returned a missed field goal for a touchdown in a rare kick-returning appearance last week, but starting kick returner Larry Taylor could be available to return from a knee injury. Defensive end John Bowman is setting the pace on defense with a team-leading seven sacks.
ABOUT THE BLUE BOMBERS (5-3): Willy is second in the league with 2,158 passing yards, while slotback Clarence Denmark is one of only two players in the league with more than 500 receiving yards. Slotback Nick Moore has been practicing with the team and is expected to return to the lineup on Friday after missing time with a foot injury. Defensive end Greg Peach is two sacks shy of tying his career-high of six, set in 2009 and matched in 2012.
TRENDS:
* Over is 6-2 in the last eight meetings in Winnipeg.
* Alouettes are 1-5 ATS in their last six meetings.
* Blue Bombers are 0-4 ATS in their last four games in August.
* Under is 6-0 in Alouettes last six road games.
COVERS CONSENSUS: Sixty percent of wagers on Covers Consensus are backing the Blue Bombers.
AFC East NFL betting preview: New England's division to lose
By SEAN MURPHY
The AFC East is likely the Patriots to lose again this year, but they could get a serious push from at least two of their three division rivals.
Covers Expert Sean Murphy breaks down the best ways to wager on the AFC East and gives a season win total pick for each of its members heading into the new NFL campaign:
New England Patriots (2013: 12-4 SU, 8-8 ATS)
Odds to win division: 1-3
Season win total: 10.5
Why bet the Patriots: Injuries played a major role in the offense’s hiccups a year ago, but all indications are that Rob Gronkowski, Danny Amendola and Aaron Dobson will be at full speed to open the new campaign. The defense should be better with the additions of Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner, adding to an already underrated core. And of course the Pats are still led by a guy by the name of Tom Brady.
Why not bet the Patriots: Is Brady’s production on the decline or was last year an aberration? The running game seemingly loses key pieces on a yearly basis, with LeGarrette Blount the most recent defector. Who can plug the hole and relieve some of the pressure on Brady? The offensive line has its share of questions that will need to be addressed before the start of the season.
Season win total pick: Under 10.5
Buffalo Bills (2013: 6-10 SU, 8-8 ATS)
Odds to win division: 8-1
Season win total: 6.5
Why bet the Bills: Change is once again in order in Buffalo, and that’s not a bad thing. Sammy Watkins should add some electricity to the offense, which head coach Doug Marrone wants to move at an even faster pace this season. The defense has a new coordinator in Jim Schwarz, and he brings a new scheme to a unit that is loaded with talent but hasn’t been able to reach its potential.
Why not bet the Bills: Is E.J. Manuel the right quarterback to lead the offense? He showed flashes of brilliance during his rookie season, but when he went down to injury, Thaddeus Lewis didn’t represent a major drop-off. The running game needs to be more consistent, but C.J. Spiller has yet to prove that he can take a pounding for 16 games. The margin for error is slim and we’ll see if the Bills respond favorably to the pressure.
Season win total pick: Over 6.5
Miami Dolphins (2013: 8-8 SU, 9-7 ATS)
Odds to win division: 5-1
Season win total: 8
Why bet the Dolphins: Despite having key pieces in place, the Dolphins offense stunk a year ago, but should be vastly improved under the guidance of new coordinator Bill Lazor in 2014. The Fins defense helped pick up the slack and could be even better this year. That’s a scary prospect for the rest of the AFC East. If the offensive line shows even moderate improvement, the Fins will take a leap forward.
Why not bet the Dolphins: Fixing the offensive line will be easier said than done. That unit will likely remain a work in progress when the games start to count. Ryan Tannehill has a lot of upside but he’s by no means an elite quarterback at this stage of his career. Unless the ground game can take off, Tannehill will continue to be placed in tough situations on a regular basis.
Season win total pick: Over
New York Jets (2013: 8-8 SU, 9-6-1 ATS)
Odds to win division: 8-1
Season win total: 7
Why bet the Jets: A little quarterback competition never hurt anyone, and the Jets offense should benefit from the battle between Geno Smith and Michael Vick. New York had an offense-heavy draft, picking guys that can step in and perform right away. The addition of Eric Decker gives it a legitimate red zone target while Chris Johnson joins the backfield. The defense should be formidable up front.
Why not bet the Jets: The secondary has a number of holes and will get picked on regularly out of the gate. Is the presence of Decker enough to strike fear in the hearts of opposing pass defenses? It’s hard to believe that Rex Ryan is still at the helm given the turmoil this team has gone through, and you have to wonder whether the clock is still ticking on his tenure in New York. In a tough division, the Jets may not have quite enough in the tool box to keep pace.
Season win total pick: Under 7
Angels face unfriendly territory this weekend
Justin Hartling
The Los Angels Angels are about to play some of the most important games of the season when they challenge the Oakland Athletics this weekend. Unfortunately for the Angels, they are playing at O.co Coliseum where they are 3-7 in the past 10.
The Angels have been outscored 55-48 during those games, however; 25 percent of their offense (12 runs) came in one game.
Pitcher has dominated team for his entire career
Justin Hartling
The Milwaukee Brewers will send Yovani Gallardo to the mound against the Pittsburgh Pirates, which is a great sign for the Brewers. In Gallardo's 14 career starts at home against the Pirates has seen the Brewers go 12-2.
Gallardo has only given up 28 runs, average of two runs per game, while striking out 97 batters, average of just under seven a game.
Two teams meet that have failed to create runs
Justin Hartling
The Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals are set to clash in a weekend series, but don't be surprised with a lack of offense. In the past seven meetings between the two clubhouses the over/under record is 6-0-1.
The seven games have seen a combined 29 runs for an average of 4.1 runs per game.
Cellar-dweller not happy to face next opponent
Justin Hartling
The Houston Astros are having yet another sub-par year and it will be hard for them to turn it around when they travel to Cleveland this weekend. The Astors have dropped their last six contests against the Cleveland Indians, all at Progressive Field.
The Astros have been outscored 41-15 and have yet to pass three runs in their past four against the Tribe.
Huge Friday card has 3 big 5* NFLX Sides All from Preseason Systems cashing 95% or better long term. Some have Multiple systems and angles. NFLX Sides 36-18 the last few seasons. In MLB There is a 18-1 Blowout system that wins by 3 runs on average and 91% Totals system. Thursday sweeps going 3-0.
The Free NFLX System Play is on Carolina. Game 255 at 7:30 eastern. The Panthers are 5-0 ats vs the AFC and the Patriots are 0-6 to the spread the past few seasons in week 3 and have failed to cover 7 of the last 10 vs NFC Teams. The Patriots apply to a system in Preseason games that plays against home teams that are off a home win that scored 30 or more points and allowed 10 or more, if the opponent has 1 or more wins. The Patriots should have a much tougher time against a solid Carolina defense than they did last week against a Philadelphia team that could not stop them. These two played one of the more entertaining games of last season in a game that went right down to the wire with Carolina holding off the Patriots on last play in the end zone. This should be a tight game especially in the first 3 quarters as Game threes of the Preseason are the dress rehearsal for the opener. We will take the Points and Back Carolina tonight. Start the weekend Big with the Most Powerful data in the industry, There are 3 Big 5* NFLX Power Systems all cashing over 95% long term. In MLB There is a huge Blowout system that has won 18 of 19 times and a Powerful totals system that average 11.5 runs. GC Swept the Board on Wednesday cashing all 3 Games in NFLX And MLB. Jump on. For the free play take The Carolina Panthers. GC
StatSystemsSports
Inside The Huddle Friday
NFL Preseason Betting News And Notes - Week #3
•Increased Flags Has Created Unheard Of Precedent For Bookmakers: Through two weeks of the National Football League preseason we have seen an average of 23.7 penalties per game, which is nearly double the amount we've seen last season (12.7 penalties). That has caused Bookmakers to have to adjust rather quickly to the new reality of the NFL. There has been 229 flags thrown on the defense through two weeks that has resulted in first downs for the offense per the New Orleans Times-Picayune. With an increase in opportunities for offenses, an increase of points scored is to be expected and books know that. For the first time in recent memory all the NFL action this week is working off a total that is 40.0 or higher.
The first week of preseason action saw teams score an average of 36 points per game while going over in just three of the 16 confrontations. In contrast, the second week of preseason action saw the Over/Under go 10-6 (62.5%) with an average of 47.5 points per game. The total for the Thursday night matchup featuring the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles is currently 48.5. This trend may not be ending anytime soon either as NFL Vice President of Officiating Dean Blandino has said "We're not going to change how we're calling the games once the regular season starts."
•Rams Decide To Let Pead Go: In a bit of a surprise, the Rams listed running back and special teams player Isaiah Pead as waived/injured on Wednesday. Pead, a second-round draft choice (50th overall) in 2012, suffered a torn ACL to his left knee while returning a first-quarter kickoff Saturday in the team’s 21-7 loss to the visiting Green Bay Packers. At the end of a 33-yard return, it appeared Pead’s foot got caught in the turf while he attempted to make a jump-cut. There was no contact on the play. The Rams’ decision to put Pead on waivers allows any other team in the league 24 hours to claim the third-year pro. But that’s not likely given his injury status and 2014 salary ($757,100).
The 5-foot-10, 197-pound Pead starred at the University of Cincinnati, earning the Big East offensive player of the year award as a Bearcats senior. But he never reached that level in St. Louis. In two seasons with the Rams, he made one start and played in 25 games, rushing for 75 yards on 17 carries while catching 14 passes for 94 yards. In addition, he returned 14 kickoffs for 350 yards. Pead was suspended for last season’s opener for violating the NFL’s policy on substance abuse but came on last season to earn a spot as a core special teamer.
•Practice Squads Will Expand: The National Football League and the NFL Players Association have agreed to expand practice squads from eight to 10 players for the 2014 and 2015 seasons. That could be significant for a young Rams squad that appears to be deeper than it has been in past seasons. “It gives us an opportunity to develop two additional players," head coach Jeff Fisher said. “And everybody else, too. It adds players to the pool, the developmental pool, which will be good. Gives us some flexibility as far as decisions are concerned." All 32 teams in the NFL will be required to cut down to a 53-man roster on August 30th. Released players will go through waivers and may be claimed by any NFL squad. Following the waiver period, teams will be able to sign unsigned players to their practice squads. The NFL cutdown from 90 to 75 players is Tuesday, Aug. 26.
•Ball On Track For Season Opener: Montee Ball participated in practice Wednesday in a limited capacity, continuing to regain strength after an appendectomy. He won't play Saturday, but his progress suggests he's on track for the season opener. He won't know until he takes that first hit. "There was no hesitation to return because there was no pain," said Ball, who is going to experiment with playing lighter after losing weight during this process. "I am here to play football, not sit on the sideline." That's where receiver Emmanuel Sanders spent his time. He is proceeding cautiously with a right quadriceps injury.
He worked with the trainer Wednesday and is unlikely to start versus the Houston Texans on Saturday. He's looking at the big picture, and doesn't want to create a nagging injury. Top draft pick Jadeveon Clowney of the Texans didn't finish practice, leaving with a half-hour remaining with an undisclosed injury. His helmet collided with a Broncos offensive player before he exited. The Texans' linebacker watched the rest of practice from a tent, removing his shoulder pads. He has been a limited participant in the preseason as he recovers from sports hernia surgery performed in June.
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#253 JACKSONVILLE @ #254 DETROIT
Line: Lions -3, Total: 44.5
Rookie Blake Bortles will continue his push for Jacksonville's starting quarterback spot when the Jaguars visit the Detroit Lions in Week #3 of preseason action. Jacksonville coach Gus Bradley had planned to take things slowly with Bortles, the third overall pick in May's draft, by using veteran Chad Henne as a bridge until the Central Florida product is ready. And that still seems like the plan but Bortles has played so well in the preseason that he is pushing to play sooner rather than later.
The Jaguars fell in Chicago last week, 20-19, due to two late touchdowns by the Bears but Bortles excelled when he was in the game, finishing up 11-of-17 for 160 yards. Henne started under center and Jacksonville got field goals of 49 and 25 yards from Josh Scobee, while a fumble recovery on a kickoff led to the 6-yard scoring catch by Marqise Lee for a 13-0 lead after one quarter. Henne finished the game 12-for-17 for 130 yards, while Bortles came in led the Jags to a 43-yard Scobee field goal on his first drive to give the team a 16-7 lead at the break.
By Monday Bortles got a handful of reps with the first-team offense in practice and he is scheduled to get some work with the starters in Detroit. "As I was sitting back there I thought it was really good for (Blake) to go against the ones like that to get a feel for the speed, to get a feel for the rush," Bradley said. "Sitting back there and watching it, I just felt like that was good for him."
The Lions are also coming off a late-game setback last week in Oakland when Matt McGloin's 19-yard touchdown pass to Brice Butler with six seconds left lifted the Raiders to a 27-26 win. Matthew Stafford completed 9-of-10 passes for 88 yards and two touchdowns for Detroit. George Winn added a touchdown on the ground and Golden Tate caught three passes for 41 yards and a score.
The Lions and Jaguars will be squaring off for only the second time in preseason action with the lone previous meeting taking place in 1995 when Detroit defeated Jacksonville 19-3 at the Pontiac Silverdome. "As you all well know, the third week of the preseason, typically most teams will treat it as if they're preparing for a game in the regular season," Lions coach Jim Caldwell said. "You won't be able to do everything, because some of the rules dictate otherwise, but you can get as close as you possibly can. It is extremely important, because of the fact."
•KEY STAT: JACKSONVILLE is 14-1 ATS (+12.9 Units) after 2 consecutive games with a turnover margin of +1 or better since 1993.
The average score was JACKSONVILLE 28.2, OPPONENT 15.8.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 22 times, while the underdog covered the spread 18 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 26 times, while the underdog won straight up 15 times. 2 games went over the total, while 2 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 48 times, while the underdog covered first half line 35 times. *No EDGE. 4 games went under first half total, while 3 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Home teams against the 1rst half total (DETROIT) - in non-conference games, after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better against opponent after a game where they committed 1 or less turnovers.
(24-7 over the last 10 seasons.) (77.4%, +16.3 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 19.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 14.3, Opponent 10.6 (Total first half points scored = 25)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (5-3).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (13-6).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (30-24).
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#255 CAROLINA @ #256 NEW ENGLAND
Line: Patriots -5.5, Total: 45.5
After two straight weeks of joint practice sessions with their preseason opponent in advance of the game, the New England Patriots will go it alone this week in preparation for the all-important third preseason game with Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers. Tom Brady was 8-of-10 for 81 yards with a touchdown and an interception in his preseason debut last week as New England defeated the Philadelphia Eagles, 42-35.
Second-round draft choice Jimmy Garoppolo completed 6-of-12 passes for 72 yards and a pair of scores in relief of Brady, while Kenbrell Thompkins caught three passes for 32 yards and a touchdown for the Patriots. "(We'll) try to build off what we did and move into some situational stuff for Carolina, where we would normally be for a regular season work week," New England coach Bill Belichick said. "We're still working on a lot of things that we just need to work on."
Newton also took the field for the first time in 2014 last week and finished 4-of-9 for 65 yards as Carolina beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 28-16, in the Tar Heel State. Newton had left ankle surgery in March and was held out of his team's first exhibition game against Buffalo the prior week. Jonathan Stewart carried the ball four times for 26 yards and two touchdowns, while first-round rookie wideout Kelvin Benjamin caught two passes for 41 yards for the Panthers.
The most famous Patriots and Panthers meeting came in Super Bowl XXXVIII, when New England came out on top, 32-29. Last season, the clubs clashed on "Monday Night Football" in Carolina, with the Panthers winning 24-20.
•KEY STAT: NEW ENGLAND is 13-0 against the 1rst half line (+13.0 Units) after allowing 30 points or more last game since 1993.
The average score was NEW ENGLAND 12.7, OPPONENT 5.7.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 10 times, while the underdog covered the spread 8 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 16 times, while the underdog won straight up 3 times. 2 games went over the total, while 1 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 28 times, while the underdog covered first half line 22 times. *No EDGE. 3 games went over first half total, while 0 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Against - Road underdogs of 2 to 6 points versus the first half line (CAROLINA) - off a non-conference game, after a game where they committed 1 or less turnovers against opponent after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better.
(46-21 over the last 10 seasons.) (68.7%, +22.9 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Team favored by 2.7
The average first half score in these games was: Team 14, Opponent 7.8 (Average first half point differential = +6.2)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (11-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (24-9).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (104-81).
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#257 NY GIANTS @ #258 NY JETS
Line: Giants -1, Total: 43
The annual Empire State preseason battle will take place in the Garden State as usual when the New York Jets play the host against their co-tenants at MetLife Stadium, the New York Giants. This year's battle, the 46th consecutive preseason that the two teams have squared off, takes on a little added significance because both will enter unbeaten. The Giants improved to 3-0 in exhibition play when Ryan Nassib's 4-yard touchdown pass to Corey Washington with 55 seconds left capped a ferocious fourth-quarter comeback as Big Blue pulled out a 27-26 victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
The Giants put up 27 unanswered points in the final 10 1/2 minutes to erase a 26-0 deficit and stay unbeaten this preseason, with both Nassib and fellow backup quarterback Curtis Painter throwing for touchdowns during the rally. Nassib finished 11-of-15 for 158 yards to help offset another rough effort from starter Eli Manning, who hit on just 1-of-7 throws for six yards on four stalled New York possessions. "He was gutsy, he was competitive," Giants coach Tom Coughlin said of Nassib. "The way he hung in there, he moved a little bit in the pocket, which is something that normally is not associated with us. And so the threat of him coming out of there, I think, helped us. And then when he did step up in the pocket, he made some nice plays down the field."
The Jets, meanwhile, improved to 2-0 last week when Clyde Gates caught a 17- yard score from Michael Vick early in the fourth quarter as Gang Green grabbed a 25-17 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Gates' score put the Jets on top 23-17 1 1/2 minutes into the fourth quarter, and IK Enemkpali blocked a Kevin Huber punt with the ball going out of the end zone to give the Jets a safety on Cincinnati's ensuing possession. Geno Smith played the first half of the game under center for the Jets and went 10-of-13 for 98 yards with an interception.
He also had four carries for 20 yards and a score, leading the team to two touchdowns and a field goal during his time under center. "(It's) coming together fine," Smith said when talking about his team. "We've done some good things. I really like the balance that we have showcased. We have to get better in the passing game. We have to be more precise, and a lot sharper than we have been, and then continue to fine tune things, the small things, the details, and I think we'll be fine."
The Jets lead their preseason series with the Giants, which began in 1969, 24-20-1. Last year, the Jets beat the Giants in overtime, 24-21.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 13 times, while the favorite covered the spread 9 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 12 times, while the underdog won straight up 11 times. 5 games went under the total, while 2 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 20 times, while the favorite covered first half line 13 times. *No EDGE. 6 games went under first half total, while 3 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Any team versus the 1rst half total (NY JETS) - after allowing 5.5 or less passing yards per attempt last game against opponent after allowing 5.5 or less passing yards/attempt in 2 straight games.
(32-11 over the last 10 seasons.) (74.4%, +19.9 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 19.3
The average first half score in these games was: Team 12.3, Opponent 11.7 (Total first half points scored = 24)
The situation's record this season is: (0-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (9-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (17-4).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (58-29).
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#259 OAKLAND @ #260 GREEN BAY
Line: Pacers -7, Total: 44
The Green Bay Packers return home to Lambeau Field for a rare preseason matchup with the Oakland Raiders. The Packers, who haven't met Oakland in exhibition play since 2001, evened their practice-game record at 1-1 last week when Aaron Rodgers completed 11- of-13 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown in his 2014 preseason debut as Green Bay defeated the St. Louis Rams, 21-7. Rodgers, along with running back Eddie Lacy and wide receiver Jordy Nelson, were healthy scratches in Green Bay's first preseason game.
Lacy returned to carry the ball five times for 25 yards and added two receptions for 22 yards, while Nelson had a touchdown catch called back due to a penalty. "We practiced our up-tempo offense and to be able to come out and execute it at this stage of the game is great," Lacy said. "It will be tough for opponents to keep up and be able to beat us." Randall Cobb caught three passes for 34 yards and a touchdown and tight end Andrew Quarless had four receptions for 58 yards in the triumph.
The Raiders also rebounded last week when Matt McGloin's 19-yard touchdown pass to Brice Butler with six seconds left lifted Oakland over the Detroit Lions 27-26. Darren McFadden had eight rushes for 27 yards and a score for the Raiders, while Matt Schaub went 8-for-13 with an interception in two series before being removed. McGloin was 7-for-15 passing for 114 yards and Butler finished with four catches for 74 yards. "There are a lot of things we have to learn from," said Oakland head coach Dennis Allen, "but it's a lot better to do that after a win."
Oakland rookie quarterback Derek Carr suffered a concussion during the game, leaving with under six minutes left after taking a hard shot from Detroit's Larry Webster on a pass attempt. The 2014 second-round pick played well prior to the injury, engineering three scoring drives and completing 9-of-16 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown. Carr, currently second on the Raiders' depth chart behind veteran Matt Schaub, will have to pass the league's concussion protocol in order to play this week.
This will be the ninth time the Packers have played the Raiders during the preseason. It will be the third time in nine contests that the two clubs have met at Lambeau Field. Three contests have taken place in Oakland, and one each in Los Angeles, Canton, Ohio and Milwaukee.
•KEY STAT: GREEN BAY is 15-5 OVER (+9.5 Units) the 1rst half total as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points versus the first half line since 1993.
The average score was GREEN BAY 12.2, OPPONENT 9.9.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 7 times, while the favorite covered the spread 4 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 9 times, while the underdog won straight up 2 times. 2 games went over the total, while 1 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 13 times, while the favorite covered first half line 12 times. *No EDGE. 5 games went under first half total, while 3 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Road teams versus the 1rst half total (OAKLAND) - after playing a game at home against opponent after a 2 game road trip, after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread.
(24-4 over the last 5 seasons.) (85.7%, +19.6 units. Rating = 3*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 19.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 11.8, Opponent 13 (Total first half points scored = 24.8)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (11-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (40-18).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (76-37).
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#261 CHICAGO @ #262 SEATTLE
Line: Seahawks -7, Total: 45
The Chicago Bears will play their first of two road preseason contests in just under a week's time when they travel to the Pacific Northwest to take on the defending Super Bowl Champion Seattle Seahawks (10:00 PM EST) on Friday. The Bears improved to 2-0 in the preseason last week when Senorise Perry's 5- yard touchdown run with 50 seconds left lifted Chicago to a hard-fought 20-19 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Ka'Deem Carey scored on a 1-yard run earlier in the fourth quarter and Brandon Marshall caught a 4-yard score from Jay Cutler in the second quarter for the Bears, who opened the preseason with a win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Cutler finished 7-for-9 for 75 yards during his time on the field while Jordan Palmer guided the Bears on their two fourth quarter scoring drives for the win.
The Seahawks, meanwhile, looked as dominant as ever last week as Russell Wilson ran for a pair of touchdowns during Seattle's 41-14 drubbing of the San Diego Chargers. Wilson completed 11-of-13 passes for 121 yards and added 31 yards rushing on four carries for Seattle. Robert Turbin carried the ball 12 times for 81 yards and a score and Percy Harvin caught four passes for 31 yards in the triumph.
The Bears and Seahawks will be meeting for the fourth time in the preseason with all four meetings coming in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle owns a 2-1 advantage with Chicago's lone win coming in 1976, the Seahawks' inaugural NFL season.
•KEY STATS: SEATTLE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) after a win by 21 or more points since 1993.
The average score was SEATTLE 25.5, OPPONENT 16.5.
--SEATTLE is 10-1 against the 1rst half line (+8.9 Units) in home games after allowing 14 points or less last game since 1993.
The average score was SEATTLE 15.5, OPPONENT 6.3.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 3 times, while the underdog covered the spread 1 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 4 times, while the underdog won straight up 0 times. 0 games went over the total, while 0 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 13 times, while the underdog covered first half line 8 times. *No EDGE. 2 games went over first half total, while 0 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play On - Home favorites of 2 to 6 points versus the first half line (SEATTLE) - after gaining 7 or more passing yards/attempt last game against opponent after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins.
(31-10 over the last 10 seasons.) (75.6%, +20.7 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half line posted in these games was: Team favored by 2.7
The average first half score in these games was: Team 13.8, Opponent 6.4 (Average first half point differential = +7.4)
The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (8-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (16-5).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (71-40).
Today's NFL Picks
Oakland at Green Bay
The Packers split their first two preseason contests on the road, losing at Tennessee (20-16) in the opener and winning at St. Louis (21-7) last week.. Tonight, Green Bay returns home to Lambeau Field to host the Oakland Raiders. Green Bay is the pick (-7) according to Dunkel, which has the Packers favored by 10. Dunkel Pick: Green Bay (-7). Here are all of this week's NFL preseason picks.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Time Posted: 7:00 a.m. EST (8/20)Game 253-254: Jacksonville at Detroit (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Jacksonville 119.913; Detroit 119.628
Dunkel Line: Even; 40
Vegas Line: Detroit by 3; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (+3); UnderGame 255-256: Carolina at New England (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 120.647; New England 127.834
Dunkel Line: New England by 7; 41
Vegas Line: New England by 5 1/2; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New England (-5 1/2); UnderGame 257-258: NY Giants at NY Jets (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 123.112; NY Jets 120.310
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 3; 38
Vegas Line: Pick; 42 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants; UnderGame 259-260: Oakland at Green Bay (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 117.593; Green Bay 127.752
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 10; 39
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 7; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Green Bay (-7); UnderGame 261-262: Chicago at Seattle (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 123.063; Seattle 114.292
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 4; 49
Vegas Line: Seattle by 7; 45
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+7); Over
WNBA Basketball Picks
Chicago at Atlanta
The Sky head to Atlanta tonight to open up their playoff series against a Dream team that is 0-8 ATS in its last 8 games versus Eastern Conference opponents. Chicago is the pick (+3 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Dream favored by only 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+3 1/2). Here are all of today's WNBA picks
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. ESTGame 605-606: Chicago at Atlanta (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 108.840; Atlanta 110.371
Dunkel Line & Total: Atlanta by 1 1/2; 148
Vegas Line & Total: Atlanta by 3 1/2; 155 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+3 1/2); UnderGame 607-608: Los Angeles at Phoenix (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 111.036; Phoenix 123.664
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 12 1/2; 150
Vegas Line & Total: Phoenix by 10 1/2; 156 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (-10 1/2); Under
Today's MLB Picks
LA Angels at Oakland
The Angels head to Oakland tonight to open up a big AL West series and come into the contest with an 18-4 record in their last 22 games against division opponents. LA is the pick (+140) according to Dunkel, which has the Angels favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (+140). Here are all of today's MLB picks.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. ESTGame 9-1-902: St. Louis at Philadelphia (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis (Wainwright) 17.778; Philadelphia (Kendrick) 14.698
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 3; 8
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-175); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-175); OverGame 903-904: San Francisco at Washington (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco (Hudson) 14.756; Washington (Fister) 17.320
Dunkel Line: Washington by 2 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Washington (-160); 7
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-160); OverGame 905-906: Atlanta at Cincinnati (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta (Minor) 16.228; Cincinnati (Latos) 13.193
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 3; 7
Vegas Line: Cincinnati (-125) 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (+105); UnderGame 907-908: Pittsburgh at Milwaukee (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh (Locke) 16.112; Milwaukee (Gallardo) 15.298
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1; ;7
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-150); 8
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (+130); UnderGame 909-910: Miami at Colorado (8:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (Alvarez) 16.409; Colorado (Morales) 14.986
Dunkel Line: Miami by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Miami (-135); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-135); UnderGame 911-912: San Diego at Arizona (9:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Despaigne) 15.456; Arizona (Collmenter) 13.465
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 2; 7
Vegas Line: Arizona (-120); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (+100); UnderGame 913-914: NY Mets at LA Dodgers (10:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Mets (Niese) 15.412; LA Dodgers (Haren) 13.869
Dunkel Line: NY Mets by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-140); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Mets (+120); OverGame 915-916: Houston at Cleveland (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston (Peacock) 13.212; Cleveland (Carrasco) 16.533
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 3 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Cleveland (-210); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-210); OverGame 917-918: Chicago White Sox at NY Yankees (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: White Sox (Danks) 14.554; NY Yankees (Greene) 16.295
Dunkel Line: NY Yankees by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-180); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Yankees (-180); UnderGame 919-920: Tampa Bay at Toronto (7:07 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay (Smyly) 14.612; Toronto 16.998
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 2 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Toronto (-135); 8
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-135); UnderGame 921-922: Seattle at Boston (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle (Hernandez) 16.108; Boston (Kelly) 13.574
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 2 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Seattle (-170); 7
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-170); OverGame 923-924: Kansas City at Texas (8:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Ventura) 14.339; Texas (Lewis) 15.201
Dunkel Line: Texas by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-145); 9
Dunkel Pick: Texas (+125); OverGame 925-926: Detroit at Minnesota (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Ray) 14.879; Minnesota (Milone) 16.428
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Minnesota (-110); 9
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-110); UnderGame 927-928: LA Angels at Oakland (10:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Santiago) 15.271; Oakland (Gray) 13/962
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Oakland (-160); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (+140); UnderGame 929-930: Baltimore at Chicago Cubs (2:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Gausman) 16.504; Cubs (Arrieta) 14.235
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 2 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Chicago Cubs (-120); No Run Total
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+100); N/A
WNBA Betting Recap - 8/11-8/17
By Joe Williams
League Betting Notes
Favorites went 7-2 straight up
Favorites went 5-4 against the spread (ATS)
Home teams posted a 5-4 SU record
Road teams posted a 5-4 ATS record
The 'under' went 7-2
Team Betting Notes
The 'under' went 18-8 in the final two weeks of the WNBA regular season.
Phoenix (29-5) set a WNBA record with its 29th victory of the regular season in the finale in Seattle (12-22). The Mercury was on fire in the win-loss column, but they wrapped up the regular season just 2-7 ATS over their final nine.
The Mercury will meet Los Angeles (16-18) in the first round of the WNBA playoffs. LA won two of the final three games, with that only loss coming against Phoenix. The Sparks were 3-0 ATS in the final three, and the 'under' cashed in 12 of the final 17 games of the regular season.
Phoenix went 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS in five regular season meetings against Los Angeles.
Minnesota (25-9) will likely give Phoenix its biggest run for the money, but they must get by San Antonio (16-18) first. The Lynx went 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS against the Stars this season, dropping the final meeting in San Antonio by a 92-76 score on Aug. 15.
Atlanta (19-15) held on for the top seed in the East, but they definitely tumbled down the stretch. The Dream won just four of their final 14 regular season games after a 15-5 start. They're face Chicago (15-19) in Round 1 of the playoffs.
The Sky went 7-5 SU in its final 12 games, and they were 6-5-1 ATS during the span. The constant was the 'under', which went 15-6 in the final 21 games.
In head-to-head meetings this season, the Sky went 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS against the Dream, winning and covering both meetings at home.
Indiana (16-18) and Washington (16-18) will meet in the first round, with the Fever as the two-seed. In a strange twist, the visitor won and covered in each of the four regular season meetings.
MLB
National League
Cardinals-Phillies
Wainwright is 2-2, 5.46 in his last four starts.
Kendrick is 0-1, 5.87 in his last four starts.
Cardinals won seven of their last eight games.
Phillies lost eight of their last twelve games.
Last five Cardinal games went over the total.
Giants-Nationals
Hudson is 0-3, 5.14 in his last five starts.
Fister is 6-1, 1.96 in his last eight starts. .
Giants lost five of their last seven road games.
Nationals won their last 11 games; five of last six were walk-offs.
Over is 7-2-2 in last eleven Washington home games.
Braves-Reds
Minor is 2-3, 6.04 in his last five starts.
Latos is 2-0, 2.70 in his last four starts.
Braves won six of their last seven games.
Reds lost six in row, nine of last ten games.
Over is 7-1-1 in last nine Cincinnati games
Pirates-Brewers
Locke is 2-0, 3.57 in his last three starts.
Gallardo is 3-1, 1.60 in his last five starts.
Pirates lost seven of their last eight games.
Brewers won five of their last six games.
Over is 4-1-1 in last six Pittsburgh games.
Marlins-Rockies
Alvarez is 3-0, 1.23 in his last three starts.
Morales is 0-2, 4.91 in his last four starts.
Marlins won eight of their last twelve games.
Colorado won three of its last four games.
Five of last seven Colorado games went over total.
Padres-Diamondbacks
Despaigne is 1-3, 7.01 in his last five starts.
Collmenter is 0-2, 7.71 in his last five starts.
Padres lost three of their last four games.
Arizona lost its last six games, scoring 11 runs.
Four of last five Despaigne starts went over.
Mets-Dodgers
Niese is 2-4, 5.45 in his last six starts.
Haren is 0-3, 13.50 in his last three home starts.
Mets lost six of their last nine games.
Dodgers lost six of their last nine home games.
Over is 6-1-1 in Mets' last eight road games.
American League
Astros-Indians
Peacock is 0-3, 12.46 in his last five starts.
Carrasco is 2-0, 0.00 (12 IP) in his last two starts.
Astros lost eight of their last twelve road games.
Cleveland won seven of its last ten games.
Five of last six Peacock starts went over total.
White Sox-Bronx
Danks is 0-2, 8.18 in his last four starts.
Greene is 1-0, 2.41 in his last three starts.
White Sox lost four of their last five games.
Bronx lost seven of its last ten games.
Four of last five Chicago road games stayed under.
Rays-Blue Jays
Smyly is 1-1, 2.25 in three starts for Tampa Bay.
Stroman is 5-1, 1.62 in eight home starts.
Rays lost four of their last five games.
Toronto lost six of its last eight games. .
Under is 9-2-1 in last twelve Tampa Bay games.
Mariners-Red Sox
Hernandez is 5-2, 1.75 in his last ten starts.
Kelly is 0-1, 5.29 in three starts for the Red Sox.
Mariners won 11 of their last 15 games.
Boston lost its last five games, scoring nine runs.
Under is 10-2-1 in last thirteen Hernandez starts,
Royals-Rangers
Ventura is 2-1, 3.16 in his last four starts.
Lewis is 2-4, 3.99 in his last six starts.
Royals won 17 of their last 21 games.
Texas lost five of its last seven games.
Five of last seven Royal games went over the total.
Tigers-Twins
Ray is 0-3, 10.13 in his last three starts.
Milone is 0-1, 11.05 in two starts for the Twins.
Detroit lost 11 of its last 15 road games.
Minnesota lost four of its last five games.
Three of last four Milone starts stayed under total.
Angels-A's
Santiago is 0-0, 2.35 in his last five starts (Angel bullpen 1-4).
Gray is 0-4, 5.70 in his last four starts.
Angels won eight of their last nine games.
Oakland lost eight of its last ten games.
Seven of last eight Angel games stayed under.
Interleague games
Orioles-Cubs
Gausman is 3-1, 3.23 in his last five starts.
Former Oriole Arrieta is 0-1, 1.26 in his last two starts.
Baltimore won 12 of its last 16 games.
Cubs are 5-7 in their last twelve home games.
Five of last six Baltimore games stayed under.
Teams' record when this starting pitcher starts:
-- Wainwright 18-7; Kendrick 11-14
-- Hudson 14-9; Fister 14-4
-- Minor 9-10; Latos 5-7
-- Locke 8-6; Gallardo 12-13
-- Alvarez 16-7; Morales 7-10
-- Despaigne 5-5; Collmenter 13-8
-- Niese 12-11; Haren 12-13
-- Peacock 6-12; Carrasco 3-3
-- Danks 11-14; Greene 5-2
-- Smyly 6-12/1-2; Stroman 7-7
-- Hernandez 17-9; Kelly 3-4/2-1
-- Ventura 12-11; Lewis 10-12
-- Ray 1-4; Milone 9-7/1-1
-- Santiago 5-12; Gray 15-10
-- Gausman 9-4; Arrieta 11-8
Pitchers allowing runs in first inning:
-- Wainwright 3-25; Kendrick 6-25
-- Hudson 5-24; Fister 5-18
-- Minor 6-19; Latos 1-12
-- Locke 7-14; Gallardo 7-25
-- Alvarez 6-23; Morales 3-17
-- Despaigne 3-10; Collmenter 9-22
-- Niese 7-23; Haren 12-25
-- Peacock 7-18; Carrasco 2-6
-- Danks 7-25; Greene 1-7
-- Smyly 7-21; Stroman 3-14
-- Hernandez 3-26; Kelly 4-10
-- Ventura 6-23; Lewis 8-22
-- Ray 1-5; Milone 8-18
-- Santiago 4-17; Gray 7-25
-- Gausman 3-13; Arrieta 5-19
Preview: Angels (75-50) at Athletics (74-51)
Game: 1
Venue: O.co Coliseum
Date: August 22, 2014 10:05 PM EDT
Mike Trout may be slumping, but the Los Angeles Angels are rolling.
Given Trout's recent history at Oakland Coliseum, he could catch fire too Friday night as the Angels look to extend their advantage in the AL West when they open a three-game series with the Athletics.
The Angels (76-50) own a two-game edge over Oakland (74-52) and have won eight of nine after their first four-game sweep in Boston since 1962. Los Angeles' pitchers own a 2.70 ERA over the last nine games and Matt Shoemaker held the Red Sox hitless for 6 2-3 of his 7 2-3 innings in Thursday's 2-0 victory.
Though Trout's 89 RBIs rank third in the majors, he's 5 for 36 in that 8-1 stretch and 9 for 57 (.158) over his last 14 games with 20 strikeouts.
However, he's batting .357 over his last 10 games in Oakland with six home runs and 16 RBIs and homered in his lone game there this year.
These clubs haven't met since the Angels took two of three in Anaheim from June 9-11. Oakland totaled one run in each of its losses after tallying 26 runs in a three-game home sweep from May 30-June 1.
The Athletics (74-52) have lost eight of 10 with their starters posting a 5.08 ERA. All but one of those losses came on the road, though, so a return home should prove favorable. Oakland is a major league-best 35-14 at home since May 7.
Sonny Gray (12-7, 2.99 ERA) has lost four straight starts with a 4.94 ERA. Previously he had only lost consecutive starts once through his first 31 career outings.
Gray gave up four runs and eight hits in 5 1-3 innings of a 4-3 road loss to Atlanta on Saturday. It marked the second time in three outings he failed to complete at least six innings after doing so in 20 of his previous 22 games.
He beat the Angels in a 6-3 home victory on June 1, allowing three runs in 6 2-3 innings. He didn't factor into the decision in his only other start against Los Angeles, yielding a run over six innings in a 2-1 victory on Sept. 17.
Trout is 1 for 4 versus Gray, though the lone hit was a home run.
Los Angeles will counter with Hector Santiago (3-7, 3.46). The left-hander is undefeated over his last 11 appearances - eight starts - with a 2.45 ERA, though he also has just three victories in that span. The Angels have lost his last three outings, but have supplied him with just five runs of support over 17 1-3 innings.
He yielded a run and four hits over six innings of Los Angeles' 3-2 defeat at Texas on Sunday. Santiago was in line for the victory before Huston Street's blown save.
"There's no doubt about his ability to throw strikes and I think he's commanding counts better," manager Mike Scioscia said. "He's been keeping guys off-balance. He's been pitching good baseball."
Santiago is 1-0 in three starts versus Oakland, allowing two earned runs over 19 1-3 innings. He didn't receive a decision in either matchup this year while yielding eight hits in 13 innings
Josh Donaldson is 3 for 20 over his last six games and 1 for 8 versus Santiago.
Howie Kendrick, who went 5 for 9 over the last two games against Boston, is 3 for 7 against Gray. He has also hit safely in 14 of his last 15 games at Oakland with nine RBIs.
2Halves2Win
MLB COMP
MIA @ COL
1* Rockies +1.5 RL
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