1-12-14

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::clap::

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Norm Hitzges

SINGLE PLAYS
San Francisco -1 Carolina
San Francisco--Carolina - UNDER 42
Denver--San Diego - OVER 54 1/2

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JASON SHARPE

*** January Game of the Month ***

6 Unit Play Take #115 San Francisco -1 over Carolina (1:00pm est):
The San Francisco 49ers offense that we have seen in the post-season these last two years looks nothing like their regular season version of it. We seen a much more explosive 49ers offense, one that averaged almost 35 points per game last year during the playoffs while riding the arm and the legs of their young quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Though he had a decent season overall this year, you could tell early on that San Francisco's head coach Jim Harbaugh (a former quarterback himself) didn't want to put the young qb at risk of an injury during the regular season. Last weekend we saw again that the 49ers were saving the best Kaepernick for the post-season.

San Francisco is probably the most complete team in the NFL as they are solid on both the offense and defensive lines. They also have strong special teams units and are extremely well coached with arguably the fewest weaknesses of any team in the NFL. The one area of concern for them has to be with their passing game but that now looks to have gone up another level with the return of wide receiver Michael Crabtree who has slowly been working himself back into shape after returning from an injury late this season. Add in the new and improved San Francisco offensive game plan focusing on Kaepernick's strengths and what you have is a 49ers offense that matches the rest of this very good team.

Carolina turned their season around after a 1-3 start to the year. This was a team who was looking like they would be firing their head coach but instead they ended the season with just one loss in their last twelve games. A lot of the credit goes to a defense that played at high levels for most of the year. They did seem to catch some breaks scheduling wise as they didn't face many of the top quarterbacks this season. In fact they only played five games this year versus teams with a winning record and went 3-2 in those contests. San Francisco on the other hand played eight such games going 4-4 overall.

They say championship teams turn it up in the playoffs. You could see the extra intensity last week on the San Francisco sidelines from head coach Jim Harbaugh, to quarterback Kaepernick and all the way down. This is a veteran group who expects to go on the road and win. The moment here in this one won't be too big for this team. With a line around pick'em that means all they have to do is find a way to win this game for us to cash our ticket. I am not sure I trust another team or coach more so than I trust the the 49ers and Harbaugh to take care of business.

Take San Francisco here.

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Today's NFL Picks



SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Time Posted: 9:00 p.m. EST (1/6)


Game 115-116: San Francisco at Carolina (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 139.663; Carolina 140.790
Dunkel Line: Carolina by 1; 46
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 2; 42
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+2); Over


Game 117-118: San Diego at Denver (4:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego 142.848; Denver 140.518
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 2 1/2; 51
Vegas Line: Denver by 10; 55 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (+10); Under

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Cappers Advantage
@big_east
1/12/14 Sunday
San Fran 49ers ML (-130) 2.6units

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Alex Blasscyk

Blasscyk WINS

BW Play: 113 Indianapolis Colts +7.5 (-120) *4 UNITS* (BetOnline)

BW Play: 113 Indianapolis Colts under 53 (-108) *4 UNITS* (5 Dimes)

BW Play: 115 S.F. 49ERS OVER 42 (-105) *5 UNITS* (5 Dimes)

BW Play: 115 S.F. 49ERS -1 (-115) *5 UNITS* (BetOnline)

BW Play: 117 San Diego Chargers OVER 54.5 (-110) *3 UNITS* (Bookmaker)

BW Play: 117 San Diego Chargers +10 (-110) *3 UNITS* (Bookmaker)

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Goodfella

4* Playoff GOY 49ers ML

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LA Syndicate

NFL Playoff Game of the Year - 49ers pk (-110)

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H&H Sports

Triple Dime Panthers

Double Dime Chargers

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EZWINNERS

5* 49ers -1

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NFL Prop Shop: Divisional Weekend
By SEAN MURPHY

The postseason continues in the NFL with Divisional Weekend getting underway Saturday. Why not spice things up with some player prop bets? Covers Expert Sean Murphy opens the doors of the NFL Prop Shop and gives you his favorite player prop picks for this weekend's action:

Most passing yards

Andrew Luck (Indianapolis Colts) vs. Tom Brady (New England Patriots)

I'll take a shot with Andrew Luck at a healthy underdog price on Saturday.

Here's my thinking: I fully expect the Colts to be playing from behind for much of this game. That means we should see Luck airing it out early and often. I'm aware that the Colts want to be a run-first team, but this is an awfully tough spot to be hard-headed. Luck rallied the offense last Saturday, and I believe he'll be asked to do the same this week.

Take: Luck

Colin Kaepernick (San Francisco 49ers) vs. Cam Newton (Carolina Panthers)

I have the ultimate respect for the Panthers defense, however, we've seen Colin Kaepernick take his game to another level in the playoffs time and time again, and I expect that to be the case again on Sunday afternoon.

Cam Newton has played on the big stage before (in SEC and BCS Championship Games), but the NFL playoffs are another animal. He'll be up against a 49ers defense that is playing 'angry' right now (credit that quote to former 49er and NFL Network analyst Eric Davis) - a unit that should be able to control a good, but not great receiving corps.

Take: Kaepernick

Most rushing yards

Frank Gore (San Francisco 49ers) vs. DeAngelo Williams (Carolina Panthers)

I supported Frank Gore last Sunday against Green Bay, but I'm switching gears this week.

I believe we'll see the 49ers take a more pass-heavy approach against an aggressive Panthers defense on Sunday. Gore will get his share of carries, but I'm not sure he'll create a lot of 'splash' plays.

While DeAngelo Williams hasn't been all that consistent, he does boast big play potential and could rip off a couple of big runs if the 49ers come in a little too focused on Cam Newton.

Take: Williams

Most pass receptions

Keenan Allen (San Diego Chargers) vs. Julius Thomas (Denver Broncos)

If this were a play on which receiver would have a bigger impact on the final result, I might be inclined to back Julius Thomas, as he likely has greater touchdown potential. However, when it comes to receptions, I'll go with Keenan Allen.

Allen was a virtual non-factor in last week's win over the Bengals, but that only serves to give us better line value here. The Chargers know that he needs to play a bigger role in the offense this Sunday if they're going to pull off another shocker in Denver. If they're playing from behind and Philip Rivers is forced to sling it all over the field, that suits our purposes even better.

Take: Allen

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NFL's biggest betting mismatches: Divisional Round
By JASON LOGAN

Each week, Jason Logan breaks down some of the underlying mismatches in the NFL, hoping to give you an inside edge when handicapping the schedule. Here are four of the biggest betting mismatches for the NFL Divisional Round:

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers (Pick, 41)

Niners’ momentum vs. Panthers’ bye week blues

As past playoff pushes have shown us, it’s the hot team – not the higher seed – that has the edge. And no team in football is hotter than the 49ers. Not even the icy temps at Lambeau Field could slow down San Francisco, which has won seven in a row (4-3 ATS). The 49ers are coming off a massive victory over Green Bay on a last-second field goal and are out to avenge a loss to Carolina earlier this season.

The Panthers built up a lot of momentum in the final weeks of the season, winning three straight and 11 of their final 12 games to grab the No. 2 seed in the NFC and a first-round bye. But many are asking if Carolina has peaked and whether taking a week off will cool the Panthers’ play. Carolina is no fan of the bye week – playoff or regular season. The Panthers are 0-3 SU and ATS coming off the bye week under coach Ron Rivera and were knocked out of the playoffs in 2008 after a 12-4 season earned them a first-round break, losing 33-13 as 9.5-point favorites to Arizona in the Divisional Round.

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos (-10, 54)

Chargers’ third-down success vs. Broncos’ third-down defense

The Bolts have already laid the blueprint for beating the Broncos, knocking off Denver 27-20 as 10-point road underdogs in Week 15. San Diego controlled the tempo and dominated time of possession in that game, burning up 38:49 to Denver’s 21:11. A big part of that win – and the Chargers’ overall success – is the team’s ability to keep the chains moving on third down. San Diego ranks tops in the NFL in third-down conversion rate, picking up the first 48.17 percent of the time, and went 6 for 12 on third downs in the win over Denver.

The Broncos defense has been the elephant in the room all season. Denver’s stop unit has been burned for big numbers and is missing one of its key cogs in LB Von Miller, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. The Broncos were in the middle of the road in terms of third-down defense, limiting opponents to a 38.07 conversion percentage (16th), but can’t afford to keep the Bolts on the field Sunday. San Diego did a great job holding on to the ball and removing Peyton Manning and the Denver offense from the equation in Week 15.

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NFL Divisional betting preview: Hot bets and moving odds
By SPORTSINTERACTION

Sports Interaction betting analyst Frank Doyle previews this weekend’s NFL playoff action.

All odds current as of 11 a.m. ET, Jan. 9.

Sunday, Jan. 12

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers (+1, 42)

Now we’ll get to see what the Panthers are made of. They come into this game as the hottest team in the league with just one loss on their record after starting the season 1-3. They also dropped the 49ers 10-9 in San Francisco back in Week 10, sacking quarterback Colin Kaepernick six times in the process. Still, the 49ers are coming on strong as well and earned a lot of toughness points last week by beating the Packers in frigid Lambeau Field. With a couple of big-play quarterbacks squaring off, this one might come down to who breaks the biggest play when his team needs it most.

Where the action is: This line is bouncing around all over the place. The Panthers opened as 2-point home dogs but the game then moved to a pick ‘em. Now Carolina sits as a 1-point underdog and the total has dropped from 43 at the open to 42. About 61 percent of Sports Interaction bettors are siding with San Francisco.

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos (-9.5, 54)

A lot of bettors made a pile of money this year betting the Broncos and the over, but now that we’re in the playoffs, betting habits have changed. San Diego has already beaten Denver once this season and has won five straight, covering the number in four of those contests. That alone seems to be enough to sway a good portion of our betting public, even with Peyton Manning on the other side. The Broncos remain +237 Super Bowl favorites.

Where the action is: This number opened at Denver -10 and then dipped to -9.5 not long after. The total has dropped from 55 to 54. As of noon Thursday, 65 percent of our bets are coming in on the underdog Chargers at +9.5.

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NFL mid-week line moves: NFC Divisional Round action report
By JASON LOGAN

Odds for this weekend’s NFL Divisional Round matchups have been on the board since the Wild Card games wound down. That’s more than enough time for the betting public and wiseguys to have their say.

We talk to Michael Stewart, an oddsmaker with CarbonSports.ag, about the action coming in on this weekend’s NFC playoff games and where those odds could end up come kickoff.

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers – Open: Pick, Move: +2.5, Move: +1

Oddsmakers were on the fence about this NFC Divisional battle, setting Sunday’s game at a pick’em. Carolina edged San Francisco 10-9 on the road back in Week 10 but early money pounced on the red-hot Niners, driving the spread as high as Carolina +2.5 before Panthers money took the home team plus the points.

“I think our sharps realized this game was never going to get to 49ers -3 – like it did versus the Packers - and they decided to take the +2.5 while it was still there,” says Stewart. “This is a situation where sharps and the public are on opposite sides. So far 75 percent of the money is on the 49ers but we very much like our position and we’ll have no problem going into this game needing the dog.”

The total for Sunday’s game has come down as much as one point from 43 to 42 at some books. Early money sided with the Over at CarbonSports.ag, but sharp action forced the books hand, dropping the number to 42.5. The extended forecast for Carolina is calling for 27 percent chance of rain with winds getting up to 7 mph.

“I could see us eventually going to 42 as these are two very good defensive teams but more importantly, both offenses like to run the ball and eat up the clock,” says Stewart. “We’ve booked this total so far dead even so at this time, no need to move this total unless of course we see more sharp action betting us Under.”

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NFL mid-week line moves: AFC Divisional Round action report
By JASON LOGAN

Odds for this weekend’s NFL Divisional Round matchups have been on the board since the Wild Card games wound down. That’s more than enough time for the betting public and wiseguys to have their say.

We talk to Michael Stewart, an oddsmaker with CarbonSports.ag, about the action coming in on this weekend’s AFC playoff games and where those odds could end up come kickoff.

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos – Open: -10.5, Move: -9

This will be the third meeting between the Bolts and the Broncos this season, with the teams splitting wins on the road. Early sharp money marched in on San Diego and forced an initial move to Denver -9.5 and the public followed suit, jumping on the upstart Chargers. That has kept books busy juggling the juice on this AFC West rematch. CarbonSports.ag is currently dealing San Diego +9.5 (-120).

“At this point, we’re reluctant to go to Broncos -9 or even down to -8.5, because that would allow for all our bettors to tease the Broncos down to below the key number of three and that’s a concern for us,” says Stewart, who mentions that seven of a possible eight outcomes on teasers hit during the Wild Card Weekend. “While we are concerned about going down to -9 or 8.5, if the straight action keeps backing the dog in this one we’ll eventually get there.”

As for Sunday’s AFC total, books hung the number high, with some markets posting the total at 56 points trying to protect from Broncos bettors who love to take their side and the Over. Under money has dropped the Over/Under as low as 54.5, as of Wednesday afternoon. The forecast for Denver is calling for a slight chance of snow and temperatures in the low 40s.

“So far, 60 percent of the early action is on the Under but that’s of little concern because I know by game time we’re going to need this game under as the public gets more involved over the weekend,” says Stewart. “Also, being the last game of the weekend, I have a feeling we’ll have a ton of parlay liability tied to the Over and that liability will outweigh any straight bet exposure."

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Sports Reporter:

SF by 12 *Recommended play

Den by 4

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Winning pts.

SF by 4

Den by 5

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Goldsheet:

SF 22 Car 16

Den 27 SD 24

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Power Plays:

No play Caro 22 SF 20

2* OVER in Den

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PowerSweep:

2* Caro over SF

1* OVER in Den

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Pointwise:

Caro 20 SF 16

Den 30 SD 27

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WAYNE ROOT

SUNDAY NFL DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF GAMES

INNER CIRCLE---DENVER
On Sunday, the San Diego Chargers will invade Mile High Stadium to take on the Denver Broncos. The Chargers ended the season playing some great football. They ended the season beating the Broncos and the Chiefs. They are coming off of a game in which they dominated the Cincinnati Bengals. The Broncos will be well rested and sporting the league’s most potent offense. This year, Peyton Manning threw for 5,477 yard and 55 touchdowns. Running back, Knowshon Moreno, rushed for more than a thousand yards on the season, even being out several weeks an injury. The Denver defense will have to be able to stop the running game of the Chargers if they are to give the offense a chance to get going. After defeating the Bengals 27-10, the Chargers will be looking forward to upsetting the Broncos one more time. However, it is very difficult to beat the same team the same season especially when they last played about 3 weeks ago.Defense used to win in playoff games but not any more. With the rule changes made to the QB's, WR's and the restraints placed upon the defenses, it's all about scoring!! Peyton Manning knows after last season brutal loss against Baltimore that time may be running out. TAKE DENVER
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Pinnacle (http://www.pinnaclesports.com)---CAROLINA....DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR
The San Francisco 49ers will invade Bank of America Stadium in order to take on the Carolina PanthersThey played their first playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, who were more than game for this one but did manage to move to round 2. The 49ers had a great season by most standards, but suffered the
consequences of being in the same division with the Seattle Seahawks. This meant that the Niners had to enter the playoffs by way of wildcard birth. Wild Card teams that win their first game and then hit the road for game 2 almost never cover the pointspread.The Panthers got off to slow start this season, but they picked up steam with an 8 game winning streak that placed them on top the NFC South. They have played great on the defensive end of the ball. Quarterback, Cam Newton, has had a solid season, throwing for 3,379 yards and 24 touchdowns. Smart money lit up the Sportsbooks after hearing that Steve Smith is ready to play. Public perception is the 49ers have advantage on defense and maybe even at the QB spot but if you watch the games this year or have looked at the numbers neither are true. Just as dominant will be the Carolina defense, since week 6 Panthers have only given up over 20 points once and they keep it going this week. TAKE CAROLINA

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STATSYSTEMS SPORTS DIVISIONAL ROUND REPORT

NFC Divisional Playoffs

#115 SAN FRANCISCO @ #116 CAROLINA
(TV: 1:05 PM EST, FOX. Line: 49ers -1, Total: 42) - While San Francisco's Colin Kaepernick aims to continue his postseason success with a much better performance than his last against Carolina, the Panthers' Cam Newton won't make too much of his playoff debut. Trying for an eighth straight victory that would send them to their third consecutive NFC championship game, Kaepernick and the visiting 49ers look to avenge a regular-season loss to Newton and the Panthers on Sunday.

In perhaps the roughest of his 27 career starts, Kaepernick went 11 of 22 for a season-low 91 yards with an interception, was sacked a career-high six times and rushed for 16 during San Francisco's 10-9 home loss to Carolina on Nov. 10. By holding the hosts to a season-low 151 yards to win their fourth straight in the series, the Panthers also cooled off a 49ers team that at the time was riding a five-game winning streak during which it averaged 34.8 points. "We owe 'em," Kaepernick said after he threw for 227 yards and ran for 98 during a 23-20 wild-card victory at Green Bay on Sunday.

Bucking the elements by not wearing long sleeves, Kaepernick improved to 3-1 in the postseason. He defied the bitter cold and harsh winds to complete 16 of 30 passes, including eight for 125 yards to Michael Crabtree and a key fourth-quarter 28-yard scoring strike to a well-covered Vernon Davis. Kaepernick averaged only 32.8 rushing yards during the regular season, but he often used his legs to keep drives alive against the Packers. His 11-yard run on third-and-8 set up Phil Dawson's 33-yard field goal as time expired. Kaepernick has gained 362 yards while averaging 11.3 per run in his four postseason games.

"Our defensive ends can't get too far past the quarterback or he takes off and it gives him huge lanes," said Panthers defensive tackle Dwan Edwards, who took down Kaepernick for two of his three sacks this season. "It's important that everyone stays in their lanes and when someone does get out of their lane we have to cover that up quickly." The Panthers understand containing Kaepernick a second time likely won't be easy, even for a defense that was second in the NFL with 301.2 yards and 15.1 points allowed per contest, while topping the league with 60 sacks. During the 49ers' current seven-game run, Kaepernick has averaged 231.7 passing yards, thrown 11 TDs with two INTs and averaged 6.7 yards per rush while posting a 101.7 passer rating.

"I expect the young man to come out and play well," said Ron Rivera, the once-embattled Carolina coach who will guide the Panthers to their first playoff appearance in five seasons after going 12-4 to win the NFC South. "All you have to do is watch the way he has played down the stretch," Rivera added. Kaepernick also will have a stronger supporting cast this time. Crabtree, who missed the first meeting with the Panthers while recovering from a serious Achilles injury, has 28 receptions for 410 yards and three touchdowns in his last four postseason games. Davis, who left that contest early with a concussion, has 24 receptions for 583 yards with six TDs in six career postseason contests.

Frank Gore was held to 66 yards on 20 carries last weekend, but scored a TD for the fourth straight postseason game. "It's a team game and it's going to take a little bit from everybody," Crabtree said. "I think we got those key players." So do the Panthers, none more important than Newton. After a sub-standard follow-up to his stellar 2011 rookie season, Newton bounced back in 2013 to set career highs in touchdown passes (24), completion percentage (61.7) and passer rating (88.8) while also rushing for 585 yards and six scores. He's helped the Panthers win 11 of 12, leading four game-winning drives during that span.

Now, he will try to push aside the hype of his first playoff experience to help Carolina end a two-game postseason slide. The Panthers are seeking their first playoff victory since a 29-21 win at Chicago on Jan. 15, 2006 in the divisional round. "You don't want to be overthinking things," Newton said. "I have yet to experience a playoff game, but I know the atmosphere will be hectic to say the least." Newton, however, must improve after Carolina's offense was held to 17 or fewer points in two of the past four games. He completed 57.1 percent of his passes for 330 yards with three TDs and two INTs in the last two, but beat New Orleans and Atlanta.

"I need to be better, not missing throws that I'm capable of making," said Newton, who went 16 of 32 for 169 yards with an interception at San Francisco this season. Newton expects to have receiver Steve Smith back after he injured his knee against the Saints and missed the regular-season finale against the Falcons. Though Smith has not caught more than six passes or recorded more than 69 receiving yards in a game in 2013, he has seven touchdowns in eight career postseason contests. Smith caught six passes for 63 yards Nov. 10 against the 49ers, who have outscored their last seven opponents 182-114.

Carolina has posted a 200-84 scoring advantage while winning seven straight home games since a 12-7 season-opening loss to Seattle. The Panthers last made the playoffs in the 2008 season, also finishing 12-4 to win the South and earn a first-round bye before losing 33-13 to Arizona. Taking the next step after a stellar regular season will again be the focus for Carolina. "It is one of the goals you set for yourself and for your team," Rivera said. "We accomplished that first one (by winning the division) but there is a lot more left to go."

•PREGAME NOTES: The Panthers are the only home underdogs this weekend, and this game also represents the lowest total of the week to boot. The Niners didn't score an offensive touchdown in a 10-9 loss at home to these Panthers earlier this year. Carolina has only been to the NFC Championship Game two other times in its history. San Fran has been there in consecutive seasons. The Panthers are 11-1 SU and 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 games overall. The Niners have won seven games in a row and are 4-2-1 ATS in those games. The Under is 8-1 in Carolina's last nine games, but the Over is 10-3 in the last 13 meetings in this series.

•KEY STATS
-- SAN FRANCISCO is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) when playing against a top-level team (Win Pct. > 75%) over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 29.6, OPPONENT 18.2.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in road games versus poor passing defenses - allowing a completion pct. of 61% or worse over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 30.4, OPPONENT 17.3.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 12-27 ATS (-17.7 Units) versus good rushing defenses - allowing <=90 rushing yards/game since 1992.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 19.3, OPPONENT 24.3.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 7-0 against the 1rst half line (+7.0 Units) in all games where the first half total is between 18 and 21 this season.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 18.6, OPPONENT 6.9.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 3-12 against the 1rst half line (-10.2 Units) in road games revenging a same season loss against opponent since 1992.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 9.9, OPPONENT 17.9.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 27-6 OVER (+20.4 Units) the 1rst half total revenging a home loss against opponent since 1992.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 11.6, OPPONENT 15.2.

-- SAN FRANCISCO is 26-7 OVER (+18.3 Units) the 1rst half total revenging a loss where team scored less than 14 points since 1992.
The average score was SAN FRANCISCO 14.2, OPPONENT 13.1.

-- CAROLINA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) after playing their last game on the road this season.
The average score was CAROLINA 31.1, OPPONENT 11.6.

-- RIVERA is 16-4 ATS (+11.6 Units) after playing their last game on the road as the coach of CAROLINA.
The average score was CAROLINA 28.0, OPPONENT 18.6.

-- CAROLINA is 10-0 UNDER (+10.0 Units) off an extremely close win by 3 points or less over a division rival since 1992.
The average score was CAROLINA 18.2, OPPONENT 15.0.

-- CAROLINA is 6-0 UNDER (+6.0 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.
The average score was CAROLINA 21.3, OPPONENT 15.3.

-- CAROLINA is 11-2 against the 1rst half line (+8.8 Units) after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was CAROLINA 13.6, OPPONENT 6.8.

•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
The Panthers edged the 49ers in early November as Carolina cashed outright as six-point road underdogs. Carolina has won four straight meetings with San Francisco since 2004, including home victories in 2007 and 2010.

--CAROLINA is 15-3 against the spread versus SAN FRANCISCO since 1992.
--CAROLINA is 11-7 straight up against SAN FRANCISCO since 1992.
--12 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1992.

--CAROLINA is 13-5 versus the first half line when playing against SAN FRANCISCO since 1992.
--11 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1992.

--49ers are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 meetings.
--49ers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 meetings in Carolina.

--Over is 10-3 in the last 13 meetings.
--Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Carolina.

•RECENT TRENDS
--49ers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 7-1 in 49ers last 8 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Over is 10-2 in 49ers last 12 games after accumulating more than 150 yards rushing.

--Under is 6-0 in Panthers last 6 vs. NFC.
--Under is 8-0 in Panthers last 8 games following a S.U. win.
--Under is 4-0 in Panthers last 4 vs. a team with a winning record.
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AFC Divisional Playoffs

#117 SAN DIEGO @ #118 DENVER
(TV: 4:40 PM EST, CBS. Line: Broncos -9, Total: 54.5) - While the San Diego Chargers enter Sunday's AFC divisional playoff game in Denver as nearly double-digit underdogs, they aren't lacking for confidence after getting the best of Peyton Manning's Broncos at Mile High last month. Coach John Fox's team is out to make sure that doesn't happen again. Denver had outscored opponents by an average of 20.4 points in winning its first seven home games before falling 27-20 to San Diego on Dec. 12. Ryan Mathews ran for 127 yards and a touchdown while the Chargers (10-7) held the Broncos (13-3) to their lowest point total of the season.

"It's tough to say you're confident knowing what you're going against. You don't want to take that the wrong way," Chargers Pro Bowl safety Eric Weddle said. "Do we believe we can win (again)? Yes. Do we know what a tough challenge it is and how great we have to play? Yeah. It's not just because it's happened in the past it's going to happen. You still have to play at a high level and do the things necessary as a team to win... We have been the underdog all year. We are out to continue to believe in ourselves." Having averaged 37.9 points during the regular season - the highest of any team in the Super Bowl era - the Broncos were held to fewer than 30 in just three games, two of which came against the Chargers.

Denver won 28-20 at San Diego in Week #10 behind 330 yards and four touchdowns from Manning. "It taught us a lesson," tight end Jacob Tamme said of last month's loss. "We did kind of reboot after that and yes, I think we know that we need to play our best ball going forward and that's what we're planning on doing." While beating the Chargers remains priority No. 1, the Broncos are also eager to prove themselves following last season's divisional round collapse against eventual Super Bowl champion Baltimore. Denver gave up a game-tying 70-yard touchdown with 31 seconds left in regulation before falling 38-35 in double-overtime last Jan. 12 - exactly a year to the day of Sunday's clash.

"You don't harp on the first time you fell off your bike, but you remember falling off and you know you don't want to do it again," tight end Julius Thomas said. "So, it's not that we're dwelling on the Ravens or even if it's about the Ravens. It could have been any team that we lost to. But we do have a fresh reminder of if you don't come out and play your `A' game in this tournament, you're going to lose." Coming off a bye, Denver secured the AFC's top seed with a 34-14 win at Oakland in Week 17. The Chargers, meanwhile, won their last four regular-season games to sneak into the playoffs, and they stayed hot with a 27-10 wild-card win at Cincinnati last Sunday.

San Diego ran for a season-high 196 yards while Philip Rivers completed 12 of 16 passes for a season-low 128 yards with a touchdown and no turnovers. "Going on the road in a playoff game is not going to be easy, regardless of who you're playing," Chargers coach and former Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy said. "We're just worrying about ourselves right now, it's about us, and we're going to keep taking it one week at a time and just keep going, keep plugging away."

The Chargers have run for an average of 170.2 yards during the current five-game win streak and are 10-2 when rushing for more than 102, compared to 0-5 when they don't. It's unclear how much Mathews will be able to contribute, though, after leaving last weekend's game with a lingering ankle injury. With or without Mathews, San Diego is likely to again turn to its ground game early and often in hopes of keeping Manning off the field. Manning, who set NFL single-season passing records with 5,477 yards and 55 touchdowns, will have his full complement of receivers with Wes Welker set to return.

Welker has been out since suffering a concussion Dec. 8 against Tennessee, his second in a four-game span. Despite his absence, Welker finished second in the league with 18 receptions in the red zone, one behind Chargers running back Danny Woodhead. "A lot of times teams will decide to go ahead and double Wes," said teammate Demaryius Thomas, who hauled in 14 TD receptions to rank second in the NFL. "So absolutely, it opens up things for me. If I have single-man coverage, it's something that I definitely enjoy and look forward to. "Wes brings a lot to this offense and we're excited to have him back."

Manning has lost his last three postseason games and is 4-6 in his past 10 overall against the Chargers, including playoff losses during the 2007 and 2008 seasons while with Indianapolis. Rivers has posted a 99.1 quarterback rating in going 6-2 all-time in Denver. "I've always appreciated and look forward to, as a fan of his growing up, to go against a Peyton Manning-led team," Rivers said. "The teams that we've both been on have had awesome games, and games have come down to the wire, overtime playoff games and our two games this year were really tight. "They're a No. 1 seed for a reason. This is a heck of a team and it's rare to play an opponent three times in a season and being a division opponent, one we know well, they know us well. It's going to be awesome."

•PREGAME NOTES: The Broncos are the biggest favorites of the weekend, and this one has the highest total on the board even though both games this season were decided by one score and neither got into the 50s. San Diego is the only team to win in Denver this season. The Bolts have gone 6-2-2 ATS in their last 10 playoff games. The Broncos are 6-1-1 ATS in their last eight against AFC West teams, but both the loss and the push came against San Diego. The Under is 6-2 in the Chargers' last eight games overall, while Denver has pushed four straight playoff games past the closing number.

•KEY STATS
-- SAN DIEGO is 22-9 ATS (+12.1 Units) in road games versus good passing teams with a completion pct. of 61% or better in the second half of the season since 1992.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 24.0, OPPONENT 23.4.

-- SAN DIEGO is 7-1 UNDER (+5.9 Units) versus good passing teams with a completion pct. of 61% or better this season.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 20.8, OPPONENT 19.0.

-- SAN DIEGO is 10-3 UNDER (+6.7 Units) against conference opponents this season.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 23.0, OPPONENT 20.2.

-- SAN DIEGO is 4-18 against the 1rst half line (-15.8 Units) after scoring 25 points or more in 3 straight games since 1992.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 8.1, OPPONENT 12.7.

-- SAN DIEGO is 7-0 UNDER (+7.0 Units) the 1rst half total versus good passing teams with a completion pct. of 61% or better in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 10.0, OPPONENT 11.0.

-- SAN DIEGO is 6-0 UNDER (+6.0 Units) the 1rst half total versus good offensive teams - averaging >=350 yards/game this season.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 10.2, OPPONENT 10.2.

-- SAN DIEGO is 6-0 UNDER (+6.0 Units) the 1rst half total versus good offensive teams - averaging >=5.65 yards/play this season.
The average score was SAN DIEGO 9.5, OPPONENT 11.8.

-- DENVER is 9-23 ATS (-16.3 Units) versus excellent passing teams with a completion pct. of 64% or better in the second half of the season since 1992.
The average score was DENVER 21.3, OPPONENT 29.3.

-- DENVER is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) versus awful passing defenses - allowing a comp. pct. of 64% or worse over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 35.0, OPPONENT 20.7.

-- DENVER is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) versus poor passing defenses - allowing 235 or more passing yards/game over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 34.5, OPPONENT 21.2.

-- DENVER is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) off a road win against a division rival over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 30.8, OPPONENT 19.3.

-- FOX is 21-4 ATS (+16.6 Units) after 2 consecutive games with a turnover margin of +1 or better in all games he has coached since 1992.
The average score was FOX 24.5, OPPONENT 18.3.

-- DENVER is 14-3 OVER (+10.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 26.4, OPPONENT 29.4.

-- DENVER is 19-6 OVER (+12.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - averaging >=5.65 yards/play over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 29.8, OPPONENT 27.5.

-- DENVER is 10-1 OVER (+8.9 Units) after allowing 99 or less rushing yards in 2 straight games over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 33.5, OPPONENT 20.8.

-- DENVER is 16-4 OVER (+11.6 Units) after scoring 25 points or more in 2 straight games over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 34.3, OPPONENT 23.4.

-- FOX is 15-4 OVER (+10.6 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 24 or more points/game as the coach of DENVER.
The average score was DENVER 29.7, OPPONENT 30.2.

-- FOX is 16-4 UNDER (+11.6 Units) in home games off 2 or more consecutive unders in all games he has coached since 1992.
The average score was FOX 18.1, OPPONENT 16.5.

-- FOX is 18-5 UNDER (+12.5 Units) versus poor kickoff coverage teams, allowing >= 24 yards per return in the second half of the season in all games he has coached since 1992.
The average score was FOX 22.5, OPPONENT 17.3.

-- DENVER is 14-3 against the 1rst half line (+10.7 Units) when playing with 2 weeks or more of rest since 1992.
The average score was DENVER 17.6, OPPONENT 8.5.

-- DENVER is 6-0 against the 1rst half line (+6.0 Units) off a double digit road win over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 20.5, OPPONENT 4.0.

-- DENVER is 12-2 against the 1rst half line (+9.7 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins against the spread over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 17.9, OPPONENT 8.4.

-- FOX is 20-5 against the 1rst half line (+14.4 Units) after 2 consecutive games with a turnover margin of +1 or better in all games he has coached since 1992.
The average score was FOX 11.8, OPPONENT 7.8.

-- DENVER is 35-14 OVER (+19.6 Units) the 1rst half total versus excellent punt coverage teams, allowing <= 7.5 yards per return in the second half of the season since 1992.
The average score was DENVER 12.7, OPPONENT 11.2.

-- DENVER is 7-0 UNDER (+7.0 Units) the 1rst half total versus excellent passing teams averaging 260 or more passing yards/game over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was DENVER 12.1, OPPONENT 9.6.

•HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY
These two divisional rivals split a pair of meetings with the road team winning each matchup. Denver held off San Diego in November, 28-20 as seven-point favorites, while the Chargers shocked the Broncos in Denver a month later, 27-20 as 10-point underdogs. Each of the two games finished Under the total.

--DENVER is 20-19 against the spread versus SAN DIEGO since 1992.
--DENVER is 25-19 straight up against SAN DIEGO since 1992.
--22 of 43 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL since 1992.

--SAN DIEGO is 24-20 versus the first half line when playing against DENVER since 1992.
--23 of 41 games in this series have gone UNDER THE FIRST HALF TOTAL since 1992.

--Chargers are 10-4-2 ATS in their last 16 meetings.
--Chargers are 6-1-4 ATS in their last 11 meetings in Denver.
--Over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings in Denver.

--Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings.
--Road team is 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 meetings.

•RECENT TRENDS
--Chargers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
--Under is 4-0 in Chargers last 4 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing.
--Over is 5-0-1 in Chargers last 6 games after accumulating less than 150 yards passing.

--Over is 4-0 in Broncos last 4 playoff games.
--Over is 9-1-1 in Broncos last 11 games after allowing less than 15 points.
--Over is 8-1 in Broncos last 9 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play On - Home favorites of 2 to 6 points versus the first half line (DENVER) - good team (outgain opp. by 0.4 to 1 YPP) against an average team (+/- 0.4 YPP) after 8+ games, after gaining 400 or more total yards in their previous game.
ATS W-L Record: 47-17 since 1983. (73.4%, +28.3 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half line posted in these games was: Team favored by 3.9
The average first half score in these games was: Team 15, Opponent 7.8 (Average first half point differential = +7.2)

The situation's record this season is: (3-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (7-3).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (10-4).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (22-6).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Ivey Walters -
3% San Diego Chargers +9.5

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Ben Burns
Carolina Panthers

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PhillyGodFather

Denver/San Diego Under 54.5

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Nevada Sports Experts

Playoff GOY 5 Units Broncos -9

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Behind the Bets

4* San diego + 10

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Sports Unlimited
5* 7point teaser Seattle and Denver

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Fezzik

2* San Fran -1
2* San Fran Under 43

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Football Outsiders

Chargers
Panthers

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H&H Sports

Added
NFL Double Dime Under Panthers

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Top defenses clash when 49ers visit Panthers Sunday
by Brian Graham

NFC Divisional Playoffs
Kickoff: Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET
Line: San Francisco -1, Total: 42

The 49ers seek their eighth straight victory on Sunday when they visit a Panthers team that is 11-1 SU (8-3-1 ATS) in its past dozen games, including a 10-9 win at San Francisco on Nov. 10.

The Niners gained a pathetic 151 total yards in that Week 10 loss to Carolina, which countered with only 250 total yards. That improved the Panthers to 15-3 ATS (11-7 SU) all-time in this series, including 7-2 ATS (5-4 SU) at home. This year, they are 7-1 SU (6-1-1 ATS) in Charlotte, where they hold visitors to a paltry 12.0 PPG. But San Francisco's 23-20 win in Green Bay gives the club four straight road victories (3-0-1 ATS), and improves its outstanding road record this season to 7-2 SU (7-1-1 ATS). Its offense has tallied 378 total YPG in its past four contests (three on road), including 159 rushing YPG on 5.2 YPC. The Niners are also 9-1 ATS when facing a top-level team (75%+ win pct.) since 2011, outscoring these elite opponents by an average score of 30 to 18. Not only is Carolina 16-4 ATS after playing its last game on the road under Ron Rivera, but all good NFL teams (60% to 75% win pct.) off an extremely close road win by three points or less, facing a winning team with a line of +3 to -3 are 36-12 ATS (75%) since 1983. Both teams have some injuries of concern for Sunday, as the 49ers could be without CB Carlos Rogers (hamstring) and TE Demarcus Dobbs (knee), while the Panthers have two key players, RB Jonathan Stewart (knee) and DT Colin Cole (calf), who are listed as questionable.

The 49ers are the rare team that has actually scored more points on the road (26.3 PPG) than at home (24.0 PPG) this season. In last week's victory in frigid Green Bay, they ran for 167 yards on just 30 carries (5.6 YPC), and outgained the Packers by 100 yards (381 to 281). San Francisco's ground game has been stellar all season with 139 rushing YPG on 4.4 YPC, thanks mostly to RB Frank Gore, who has 1,194 rushing yards on 296 attempts (4.0 YPC) in his 17 games. Although he had a subpar outing last week (66 yards on 20 carries), Gore was able to score a touchdown for the fourth straight time in a postseason game. For his playoff career, he has compiled 690 total yards and 5 TD in six games, averaging a strong 4.9 yards per carry. QB Colin Kaepernick had another monster postseason performance last week with 325 total yards (227 passing, 98 rushing), improving his playoff record to 3-1. In these four postseason games, Kaepernick has thrown for 256 YPG (9.3 YPA) with 5 TD and 3 INT, while running for 362 yards on an unbelievable 11.3 YPC and three touchdowns. Despite the Panthers' tough run defense, Gore was still able to rush for 82 yards on 16 carries (5.1 YPC) against them while Kaepernick added 16 yards on four rushes. If the duo is not able to run the football, Kaepernick has three talented receivers that can move the ball through the air in TE Vernon Davis and WRs Anquan Boldin and Michael Crabtree. Although Davis and Boldin have combined for 2,104 receiving yards and 21 TD this season, both were shut down in Week 10 versus Carolina, combining for just four receptions for 25 yards and 0 TD. Crabtree didn't play in that game, but he sure made his presence felt last week in Green Bay with eight catches for 125 yards. That gives him 410 receiving yards and 3 TD over four career playoff games, all in the past two seasons. Defensively, the 49ers have been outstanding in all facets this season. They ranked among the top-seven teams in the NFL in scoring defense (17.0 PPG, 3rd), rushing defense (96 YPG, 4th), total defense (317 YPG, 5th), third-down defense (34%, 6th) and passing defense (221 YPG, 7th) during the regular season. San Francisco was able to limit a great Packers offense to 20 points and 281 yards last week, holding them to 3-of-11 conversions on third downs. The Niners run defense has been outstanding all season (3.8 YPC), and has been even better on the road (88 YPG on 3.6 YPC). In the nine away tilts this year, San Francisco has limited host teams to 299 total YPG on 4.9 yards per play. The unit has also forced at least two turnovers in 15-of-17 games this season, totaling 30 takeaways. But the Panthers are not a team that gives up the ball easily.

Carolina has been able to win 11 of its past 12 games because it has committed a total of 10 turnovers during this stretch. QB Cam Newton has completed 63.3% of his passes for 2,494 yards (208 YPG), 7.2 YPA, 18 TD and 8 INT during this 12-game stretch, but has also kept drives alive with his legs this season with 585 rushing yards (5.3 YPC) and six touchdowns. But he was bottled up in the Week 10 win in San Francisco, throwing for just 169 yards on 5.3 YPA, and rushing for a mere 15 yards on eight carries. Despite that lousy performance, Newton helped the Panthers finish the regular season fifth in the NFL in offensive time of possession (31:53), fourth in third-down conversions (44%) and seventh in red-zone efficiency (58% TD rate). But despite having a ball-control, drive-sustaining, TD-converting offense with a limited amount of turnovers, they somehow average only 317 total YPG (26th in NFL) with 22.9 PPG (18th in league). A big part of that has to do with a passing offense that doesn't gain a lot of yards (190 YPG, 29th in NFL) and doesn't get a ton of big plays either (10.4 yards per reception, 23rd in league). Top WR Steve Smith (745 rec. yards, 4 TD) missed the season finale with a knee injury, but he is probable for Sunday. Smith secured six catches for 63 yards against the Niners in Week 10, and he has had some huge performances in his eight career playoff games, totaling 782 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns. TE Greg Olsen led the Panthers in receptions (73), receiving yards (816) and touchdowns (six) this year, but he had just one catch for 14 yards in the win over San Francisco. Carolina's running game has been strong this season (127 YPG, 11th in NFL), and was able to grind out 109 yards on 31 carries (3.5 YPC) in that victory. RB DeAngelo Williams (843 rush yards, 4 TD) led the way with 46 yards on just eight attempts (5.8 YPC), and he may have to carry a bigger workload if Jonathan Stewart (180 rush yards, 3.8 YPC) cannot suit up. On defense, the Panthers are sound in all facets. They finished the regular season with a league-leading 60 sacks, while ranking second in the NFL in scoring defense (15.1 PPG), second in total defense (301 YPG), second in rushing defense (87 YPG) and third in red-zone defense (42% TD rate). Although Carolina allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 66.6% of their passes (3rd-worst in NFL), the club still finished sixth in passing defense (214 YPG) with more interceptions (20) than touchdowns allowed (17). For the season, the Panthers forced at least one turnover in 15 of 16 games, and tallied 2+ takeaways 10 times, including the win over the Niners.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Broncos seek payback Sunday vs. Chargers
by Brian Graham

AFC Divisional Playoffs
Kickoff: Sunday, 4:40 p.m. ET
Line: Denver -10, Total: 54.5

The sizzling-hot Chargers try to win their fourth straight road game in Sunday's divisional playoff game when they visit the top-seeded Broncos for the second time in a month.

San Diego's 27-10 blowout win at Cincinnati to open the playoffs gives the team at least 26 points in each of five straight wins overall. During that run, the club held a 177 to 18 rushing advantage in its 27-20 upset victory in Denver on Dec. 12. That was the Broncos' lone home loss this year, where they are 5-2-1 ATS and have racked up 39.5 PPG and 456 total YPG. Denver QB Peyton Manning is 9-9 in his playoff career, including 0-2 versus the Chargers, but since joining the Broncos, he has torched San Diego for 300 passing YPG, 12 TD and 3 INT in four meetings. San Diego QB Philip Rivers is a mediocre 4-4 in his playoff career with 244 passing YPG, 9 TD and 9 INT, but he has usually played very well in this series, going 10-6 with 232 passing YPG, 27 TD and 13 INT in his career versus Denver. Since 1992, the Chargers are 19-8 ATS (70%) when the total is at least 49.5 points, and 39-23 ATS (63%) after 3+ straight wins. But the Broncos are 8-0 ATS off a road victory versus a division rival in the past three seasons, and John Fox is 21-4 ATS (84%) after two straight games with a turnover margin of +1 or better as an NFL head coach. San Diego has major injury concerns as top RB Ryan Mathews left last week's game with a recurring ankle ailment and is questionable for this contest. Two key offensive linemen for the Chargers, OT D.J. Fluker (foot) and C Nick Hardwick (stinger) were also injured in the win over the Bengals and are questionable for the game. Denver is pretty healthy after its bye week, with WR Wes Welker (concussion) cleared to play and DE Derek Wolfe (illness) also listed as probable. But C Steve Vallos (concussion), S Duke Ihenacho (concussion) and CB Kayvon Webster (thumb) are all questionable for Sunday's game.

The Chargers offense was very efficient during the regular season, leading the NFL in both time of possession (33:35) and third-down conversions (49%), but in last week's win, they had the ball for just 29:28 and converted only 4-of-12 third downs. San Diego was outgained 439 to 318 by the Bengals, but was able to win easily thanks to a +4 turnover margin. Even with RB Ryan Mathews missing a good part of the second half last week with his ankle injury, the team still rushed for a season-high 196 yards on 40 carries (4.9 YPC). That gives the Chargers 140+ rushing yards in each of the past five games (170 rushing YPG), including 177 yards on 44 carries (4.0 YPC) in the win at Denver on Dec. 12. Mathews had 127 of those yards, but if he cannot play, RB Danny Woodhead and veteran RB Ronnie Brown will look to build on their combined 129 yards on 21 carries (6.1 YPC) last week, including a 58-yard TD scamper from Brown to seal the victory late in the fourth quarter. San Diego should also be able to move the football through the air, as it had the NFL's fourth-best passing attack (271 YPG) during the regular season. QB Philip Rivers has been outstanding in his nine road games this season, completing 72% of his passes for 2,624 yards (292 YPG), 8.8 YPA, 16 TD and 6 INT. He has also thrived in the Denver thin air in his career, going 6-2 and completing 64.4% of his passes for 2,001 yards (250 YPG), 8.9 YPA, 13 TD and 7 INT in his eight career visits to Sports Authority Field. In the Dec. 12 victory there, he threw for only 166 yards, but still tossed a pair of touchdown passes to dynamic rookie WR Keenan Allen. Rivers also leans heavily on Woodhead and TE Antonio Gates, as all three players had more than 70 receptions during the regular season. Gates has had a wonderful career, but his numbers versus the Broncos aren't that special (48 receiving YPG, 6 TD in 19 games). San Diego's defense has done a great job of keeping the Broncos' explosive offense in check this year, holding them to 24.0 PPG on 346 total YPG, which is well below their season averages of 37.9 PPG and 457 total YPG. But this defense still has plenty of holes. Despite being on the field for just 27:42 per game this season, this unit has allowed 371 total YPG, including 107 rushing YPG on 4.5 YPC and 263 passing YPG on 7.5 net YPA. The Chargers have allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 66% of their passes for 24 touchdowns. These numbers have been even worse on the road where they surrender 399 total YPG on 4.8 YPC and 7.8 net YPA. But the defense has done a great job of forcing turnovers recently, compiling 14 takeaways over the past seven games. San Diego is 6-1 (SU and ATS) when it wins the turnover battle this season, something that is obviously key going up against what is clearly the best offense in the NFL.

The Broncos are known mostly for their passing offense orchestrated by Peyton Manning, but they have been able to run the ball effectively for the most part this season with 12 games of more than 100 rushing yards. Two of the exceptions were against the Chargers though, when they averaged a paltry 51.0 rushing YPG on 3.1 yards per carry. But RB Knowshon Moreno finished the year with 1,038 rushing yards and 10 TD, while adding another 548 yards and 3 TD through the air. In his seven career games in this series, Moreno has rushed for 307 yards on just 70 carries (4.4 YPC), while gaining another 194 through the air. The Broncos have just punished teams with their air attack all season with 340 YPG on 8.3 YPA. Manning is coming off the best statistical season in NFL history, completing 68.3% of his throws for 5,477 yards, 55 TD and only 10 INT. But in his 9-9 playoff career, his numbers are below his lofty standards (292 passing YPG, 7.7 YPA, 31 TD, 21 INT). But in his two seasons with the Broncos, Manning has played 17 home games where he's completed 68.4% of his passes for 5,492 yards (323 YPG), 8.1 YPA, 52 TD and just 10 INT. This includes his 290 passing yards, 3 TD and 2 INT in last year's home playoff loss to Baltimore, which marked the eighth time in Manning's career that he lost his first postseason game. To prevent that from happening again, he will continue to spread the ball between his four talented receivers, WRs Demaryius Thomas (1,430 rec. yards, 14 TD), Eric Decker (1,288 rec. yards, 11 TD) and Wes Welker (778 rec. yards, 10 TD), and TE Julius Thomas (788 rec. yards, 12 TD). Despite all these players catching double-digit TD passes this year, none of these four receivers scored a touchdown in the Week 15 loss to San Diego, as WR Andre Caldwell (200 rec. yards, 3 TD) caught both Manning TD throws that day filling in for the injured Welker. Defensively, the Broncos have had their problems, especially in the red zone where they ranked 25th in the NFL by allowing 62% of their opponents' drives to end in touchdowns. They have stopped the run pretty effectively, ranking among the top-10 teams in the league in both rushing YPG (102) and YPC allowed (3.9), but have been burned through the air for 254 passing YPG (27th in NFL), 6.6 net YPA and 29 touchdowns (T-7th most in league). Denver has also seen a substantial decrease in sacks this year (41 sacks, T-13th in NFL), compared to a league-high-tying 52 sacks last season. The Broncos do have some playmakers on defense though, posting multiple takeaways in half of their games this season, including 15 takeaways in their past nine contests.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL Divisional Weekend trends Bye might not mean Super Bowl
by Marc Lawrence

Once again, after expanding its playoff format to 12 teams in 1990, the NFL left the door wide open to the possibilities of a Wild Card team running the table and hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

Since the Wild Card system began in 1970, only 10 wild card teams have advanced all the way to the Super Bowl. Of those, only six won the Super Bowl. And of those 10 wild card teams, only four teams managed to win three games on the road to make it to the Super Bowl - the last three of whom captured the crown.

In fact, five of the last seven Super Bowl champions have played in the first round of the playoffs, including the Baltimore Ravens last season.

Will the trend continue this season or will the top seeded teams have their say? And speaking of top ranked teams, the No. 1 seed from the NFC has not won a Super Bowl since 1999.

It’s important to remember that 39 of the last 47 Super Bowl winners have owned a Top 10 ranked defense. (Are you listening Carolina, New Orleans, San Francisco and Seattle?)

Remember, it’s not always the best team that wins in the NFL playoffs… it’s the hottest.

Before we crown anyone just yet, let’s first check a few Divisional Round angles in the NFL playoffs that are noteworthy. All results are since 1990 and are ATS (Against The Spread), unless noted otherwise.

Bye And Large Top Seeds Up To Speed

No. 1 seeds enjoy the luxury of not only hosting a game in this round but also play with an added week of rest.

For the most part these teams have met with modicum of success, going 67-25 SU and 48-42-2 ATS in this role.

The best the NFC has to offer has gone 37-9 SU and 28-17-1 ATS, including 22-8-1 ATS as favorites of 6 or more points. The NFC spotlight shines on top-seeded Seattle this Saturday.

While not up to par with the NFC, top seeds from the AFC have gone 30-16 SU and 20-25-1 ATS, including 7-2 SU and ATS when facing a foe off a Wild Card round spread win of more than 17 points. No. 1 seed Denver will look to improve on those numbers when they host division rival San Diego on Sunday.

Success Breeds Success

Speaking of the added benefit of an extra week to prepare this time of the year, rested hosts in this round that enjoyed success last season use that experience to their advantage.

That’s confirmed by the fact that teams that won 11 or more games last year are 32-6 SU and 24-13-1-1 ATS at home with a week to prepare in Divisional Round contests.

Denver, New England and Seattle all fit the bill this season, rather cautiously though as teams in this role are just 8-4 SU and 4-8 ATS the last seven years.

On the flip side, teams that were losing teams last years (seven or fewer wins) are just 4-24 SU and 11-16-1 ATS in this round, including 1-13 SU and 3-11 ATS when playing off an upset, underdog win.

New Orleans and San Diego look to oblige this week.

Clint Eastwood Says

Here’s a brief capsule of this year’s Divisional Round combatants along with some relevant Good, Bad and Ugly trends…

New Orleans at Seattle (-8, 47.5)
Good: Seahawks 15-1 SU and 12-4 ATS home behind QB Russell Wilson
Bad: Saints 1-5 SU and ATS away all-time in the playoffs
Ugly: Seahawks 0-3 SU and ATS vs. Saints when New Orleans off SU and ATS win

Indianapolis at New England (-7.5, 53)
Good: Colts QB Andrew Luck 6-1 SU and ATS as a dog vs. greater than .667 opp
Bad: Visiting team 5-13 ATS in Colts postseason games
Ugly: Pats QB Tom Brady 0-6 ATS playoffs w/rest vs. opp off back-to-back wins

San Francisco at Carolina (+2, 42)
Good: Niners QB Colin Kaepernick 7-1 SU and 7-0-1 ATS away vs. non div opp
Bad: Playoff road favorites off playoff road favorite win are 1-3 ATS
Ugly: Niners are 3-15 ATS all-time vs. Panthers, 0-5 ATS last five away

San Diego at Denver (-10, 54.5)
Good: Chargers QB Phillip Rivers 4-1 ATS as a playoff dog
Bad: Broncos 2-6 SU and ATS last eight playoff games
Ugly: Broncos QB Peyton Manning 1-6 ATS home favorite vs. San Diego

Highway Blues

Life on the road for Wild Card round teams who won at home has been rocky at best, especially if those who grabbed the cash as well.

These highwaymen are just 13-37 SU and 18-30-2 ATS in this role against well-rested higher-seeded foes.

And if these same Wild Card winners take to the road against .750 or less opponents, they dip to a filthy 3-24 SU and 8-18-1 ATS in these affairs.

Indianapolis will try its best to avoid becoming road kill this week.

Stat Of The Week

In NFL Divisional Round playoff game history since 1990, there have been only two home underdogs. They both won the game straight up.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL weather report: An early look at Divisional Weekend

If you thought the frigid weather had an affect on last weekend's games, just wait till you see what's on tap for all four games of the NFL's Divisional Round this Saturday and Sunday. It may not be as cold, but watch out for plenty of wind, rain and maybe a little more snow.

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers (Pick'em, 42)

There is a 54 percent chance of rain with temperatures in the mid 50s. There will be a seven mph wind blowing across the field.

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos (-9.5, 54)

There is a 14 percent chance of snow with temperatures in the low 40s. There will be a seven mph wind blowing across the field.

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NFL Injury Report: Two injuries undervalued by oddsmakers

The NFL playoffs are in the second round as teams move closer towards making the Superbowl. Here are some notable injuries that may have an impact on the scoreboard.

Steve Smith, WR, Carolina Panthers (Knee, Questionable)

The Panthers have been fantastic defensively all season and the team’s +11 turnover ratio is a huge reason why they locked up a first round bye. Despite his age, Smith has proven once again that he’s capable of being a high-impact wide receiver. Over 15 regular season games Smith had 64 receptions for 745 yards and four touchdowns, ranking him second on the team in receptions, total yards, and touchdowns. Carolina will be missing their star player and motivator Saturday hosting a 49ers team coming off a high defeating Green Bay on the road.

The Panthers are 1-point home favorite over San Francisco. The total is 42.

Eric Weddle, S, San Diego Chargers (Hamstring, Questionable)

The Chargers travel to Denver facing a Broncos team ranked first in points scored, passing yards and total yards. Safety Eric Weddle leads the Chargers in combined tackles with 115 and interceptions with two. The Chargers weakness of pressuring the quarterback and getting sacks may come back to haunt them against a Broncos team who has 75 percent of their offensive touchdowns coming through the air (55/73). Even though the Chargers and Broncos split their regular season series win total, oddsmakers don’t feel the post-season match up will be close.

The Chargers are 9-point road underdogs against the Broncos. The total is 54.5.

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49ers at Panthers: What bettors need to know

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers (Pick, 41)

Two of the league's hottest teams will square off when the second-seeded Carolina Panthers host the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday with a berth in the NFC Championship Game at stake. It's a rematch of a Week 10 battle in San Francisco, a defensive duel in which the Panthers prevailed 10-9 as part of an eight-game winning streak and an 11-1 finish to close the regular season. The 49ers have ripped off seven consecutive victories and are seeking their third straight trip to the NFC title game.

Cam Newton, the top overall pick in the 2011 draft, has Carolina in the postseason for the first time in five years, but he has been overshadowed by fellow third-year Colin Kaepernick. San Francisco advanced to the Super Bowl last season behind Kaepernick, who had the worst game of his pro career against the Panthers in November. "They got us the first time," 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman said. "What’s on our minds is to get them now. It’s the playoffs. Win or go home."

TV: 1:05 p.m., Fox.

LINE: This game opened as a Pick. The total has dropped to 41 from the opening 43.5.

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-50s with clear skies. Wind will blow across the field at 6 mph.

ABOUT THE 49ERS (13-4): Wide receiver Michael Crabtree missed the first matchup against Carolina while recovering from surgery on his Achilles' tendon, but he offered a reminded of what an impact player he can be with eight catches for 125 yards in last week's 23-20 win at frigid Green Bay. Tight end Vernon Davis also was a non-factor in the earlier meeting after suffering a second-quarter concussion, but he reeled in a 28-yard scoring pass last week for his sixth TD reception in six postseason games. Having the duo on the field should make life easier for running back Frank Gore and Kaepernick, who was held to 91 yards passing by the Panthers. The 49ers have yet to allow a 100-yard rusher this season, but are giving up an average of 21.3 points in the last three games after holding nine of the previous 11 opponents to 17 points or fewer.

ABOUT THE PANTHERS (12-4): Newton threw for his lowest yardage total (3,379) in his three seasons but established career highs in touchdowns (24) and completion percentage (61.7) while showing his mettle at crunch time by directing four game-winning drives. Newton is also an integral part of a running game that features DeAngelo Williams as well as contributions from Mike Tolbert and Jonathan Stewart, who expects to play for the first time in a month. A major concern is the status of veteran wide receiver Steve Smith's sprained left knee, with Panthers coach Ron Rivera admitting after Thursday's practice that Smith was not his "normal self." These is little concern over a defense - led by Greg Hardy, Charles Johnson and tackling machine Luke Kuechly - that registered a league-high 60 sacks and allowed the second-fewest points per game (15.1).

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Carolina.
* 49ers are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 meetings.
* 49ers are 4-1 ATS in their last five Divisional Playoffs games.
* Panthers are 6-0-1 ATS in their last seven home games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. The Panthers are 7-1 at home, with the only loss coming to Seattle 12-7 in Week 1.

2. Crabtree has 28 catches and three touchdowns in his last four postseason games.

3. Kaepernick has 362 rushing yards in four playoff games for San Francisco, which can tie Pittsburgh for the most championship game appearances (15) since 1970 with a win.

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Chargers at Broncos: What bettors need to know

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos (-8.5, 54)

Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos get a chance to avenge their only home loss when they host the sixth-seeded San Diego Chargers in the AFC divisional round on Sunday. Manning guided Denver to the top seed behind a record-setting offense that surpassed 600 points for the first time in league history. The Broncos were held under 30 points only three times and two of them came against the Chargers, who lost a 28-20 decision in San Diego before pulling out a 27-20 win in Denver on Dec. 12.

Manning set league single-season records for touchdowns (55) and yards (5,477) but he is trying to end a streak of three straight postseason defeats, including a 38-35 loss in double overtime last season when the Broncos were also the No. 1 seed. Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers is 6-2 in his career in Denver and is relishing the matchup with Manning. "I've always appreciated and look forward to, as a fan of his growing up, to go against a Peyton Manning-led team," Rivers said. "It's going to be awesome."

TV: 4:40 p.m., CBS.

LINE: The Broncos opened -10 and are now -8.5. The total opened 54.5 and is down to 54.

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the high-30s with a 13 percent chance of snow. Wind will blow across the field at 20 mph.

ABOUT THE CHARGERS (10-7): San Diego ran its winning streak to five games with a 27-10 win at No. 3 seed Cincinnati last weekend, but enter Sunday's matchup with major concerns about running back Ryan Mathews' availability. Mathews averaged 118.3 yards in the final four games of the regular season, including 127 in the victory over the Broncos that helped the Chargers control the ball for more than 38 minutes, but he aggravated an ankle injury in the third quarter last week and did not return. Rivers put up pedestrian numbers against the Bengals (12-of-16, 128 yards, 1 TD), but he completed a league-high 69.5 percent of his passes during the regular season. San Diego's defense ranked 29th in passing yards allowed (258.7 yards) but limited opponents to an average of 16.3 points over the last six games.

ABOUT THE BRONCOS (13-3): Wide receiver Wes Welker returns to the lineup after missing the past two games with a concussion, giving Manning his full array of weapons - Denver is the only team in history to have five players score at least 10 touchdowns. Manning threw for 330 yards and four TDs - three to Demaryius Thomas - in the first matchup with the Chargers, but he was held shut down after scoring on the opening possession of the second half. Eric Decker established career highs in yards (1,288) and receptions (87) while tight end Julius Thomas hauled in 12 scoring passes, including a 74-yarder at San Diego. Knowshon Moreno yielded more playing time to rookie running back Montee Ball down the stretch, but the onus will be on a defense that allowed 24.9 points and 254.4 passing yards per game.

TRENDS:

* Over is 6-2 in the last eight meetings in Denver.
* Chargers are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Broncos are 6-1-1 ATS in their last eight vs. AFC West.
* Over is 4-0 in Broncos last 4 playoff games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Manning is 9-11 in the postseason and has lost his first game on eight occasions.

2. San Diego led the league with 39 10-play drives during the regular season and had two more for TDs in last week's win at Cincinnati.

3. Manning (5,679) needs 177 yards to surpass Joe Montana and Brett Favre for the second-highest total in postseason history behind Tom Brady (5,949).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Divisional Round Tale of the Tape: 49ers at Panthers
By MONIQUE VÁG

The Panthers host the 49ers in a rematch of the regular season defensive battle where the Panthers came out on top 10-9.

Check out the matchup in our betting tale of the tape.

Offense

The 49ers are coming off a victory on the road against Green Bay in the Wild Card round. The 49ers finished the regular season ranked third in rushing yards averaging 137.6 and 11th in points scored with 25.4 (11th). Quarterback Colin Kaepernick completed 243-of-416 passes with a 58.4 percent completion percentage and had 21 TDs and eight INTs. The 49ers showed continued success rushing the ball into the postseason, putting up 167 yards last week. Colin Kaepernick had 227 yards and completed 16 of his 30 attempted passes (53.3 percent). Kaepernick was the leading rusher with 98 yards on seven attempts with a long of 42 yards.

The Panthers offense have shown great ability to rush the ball as well averaging 126.6 yards per game. The Panthers have completed 44 percent of their third down conversion attempts (91-for-208) and 77 percent of fourth down attempts (10-for-13). DeAngelo Williams has been the Panthers leading rusher with 201 attempts for 843 yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback Cam Newton is tied for the most touchdowns on the team (six) and has rushed for 585 yards on 111 attempts. Newton has an 88.8 quarterback rating and completed 292 of his 473 pass attempts (61.7 percent).

Edge: 49ers

Defense

The 49ers have a defense ranked no worse than seventh in points allowed, passing yards, rushing yards and total yards. The 49ers have eight players with 40 or more combined tackles lead by NaVorro Bowman with 145 tackles and fumbles recovered with four. Aldon Smith and Ahmad Brooks lead the team in sacks as both tallied 8.5. The 49ers are hoping Aldon Smith is healthy enough to give their pass rush a much needed lift.

The Panthers are no worse than sixth in points allowed, passing yards, rushing yards and total yards. 2012 Defensive Rookie of the Year Luke Kuechly is showing continued success leading the team in combined tackles with 156 and interceptions with four. The Panthers have two defensive players this year with over 10 sacks including defensive end Greg Hardy, who ranks third in the NFL with 15.

Edge: Panthers

Special Teams

The 49ers are averaging 22.7 yards on kick returns ranking them 18th and they average 8.9 yards on punt returns (17th). The 49ers have shown some explosiveness returning kicks with two runs of over 40 yards including a long of 47. LaMichael James was San Francisco's leader in kick returns with 12 returns for 321 yards averaging 26.8 yards per return. James had 23 punt returns averaging 10.9. Kicker Phil Dawson in the regular season went 32-for-36 in field goals with a long of 56 yards.

The Panthers are averaging 21.9 yards on the kick return ranking them 24th and are ranked 12th in punt returns averaging 10.5 yards. Ted Ginn had 26 punt returns averaging 12.2 yards and was Carolina's leading kick returner with 25 returns for 595 yards averaging 23.8 a return. Kicker Graham Gano was 24-for-27 on field goals with a long of 55 yards.

Edge: 49ers

Notable Quotable

“I mean, the guy’s played in a few big games, I think, in his career and seems to do pretty well in them. We don’t get too wrapped up in what everybody else thinks. If we worried about that, we sure wouldn’t be sitting here getting ready to be hosting a divisional round game, if we really got too concerned with what everybody predicted. It’s just not a really big priority around here.” - Panthers tight end Greg Olsen on quarterback Cam Newton's ability to play in high pressure games.

"A lot of people talk about different things for receivers, 40-times or three-cones, how fast they run around the little orange cones, etcetera, but pretty darn important to catch the ball for a receiver. I just have never personally seen anybody catch the ball better than Michael Crabtree does." - 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh following the 49ers win in Green Bay.

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Divisional Round Tale of the Tape: Chargers at Broncos
By MONIQUE VÁG

The Broncos and Chargers square off for the third time this season on Sunday for a chance to play in the AFC Championship game.

Check out our match up in the betting tale of the tape.

Offense

The Chargers offensively put up the fourth most passing yards averaging 270.5 and fifth most total yards with 393.3. In the regular season San Diego showed success moving the chains completing 49 percent of their third down conversion attempts and 5-of-6 (83 percent) of their fourth down attempts. The Chargers dominated the time of possession averaging 33:35 a game. Running back Ryan Matthews notched six touchdowns and 1,255 yards over 285 attempts. Rookie Keenan Allen was the Chargers leading receiver with 71 catches for 1,046 yards. Quarterback Philip Rivers has a regular season QB rating of 105.5, completing 69.5 percent of his passes and put up a 32 TDs and 11 INTs.

The Broncos are coming off a record-setting season scoring 606 points for an average of 37.9 per game. The Broncos have completed 46 percent of their third down attempts and 89 percent of their fourth down conversion attempts (8-of-9). Knowshon Moreno leads the Broncos in rushing with 241 attempts for 1,038 yards and 10 touchdowns. Demaryius Thomas averaged 15.5 yards a reception with 92 receptions and 1,430 yards and Eric Decker put up 1,288 yards from 87 receptions and 11 touchdowns. Manning put up a 115.1 regular season quarterback rating completing 68.3 percent of his passes with an unbelievable 55 TDs to just 10 INTs.

Edge: Broncos

Defense

Despite the Chargers not-so-impressive statistical defense, their defense played a key role in the Wild Card victory holding the Bengals to zero points in the second half. The Chargers defense stepped up when it mattered, holding Cincy to completing 3-of-12 (25 percent) of their third down attempts and 1-of-3 (33 percent) of their fourth down conversion attempts. Safety Eric Weddle has been the Chargers best defensive player with 115 combined tackles, one sack and two interceptions.

Outside linebacker Danny Trevathan lead the Broncos in tackles with 129 in the regular season. Trevathan accumulated two sacks, three forced fumbles and three interceptions in the regular season. Shaun Phillips found success pressuring quarterbacks with 35 tackles and 10 sacks. The Broncos defense has been successful in stopping the rush allowing only 101.6 yards per game, which ranks them eighth.

Edge: Broncos

Special Teams

Punter Mike Scifres averages 43.2 yards and has kicked 30-of-56 punts inside the 20. Keenan Allen had 15 punt returns on the year averaging 8.3 yards per return. Running back Danny Woodhead has been the primary return man for San Diego with 12 returns for 262 yards and an average of 21.8 yards. Kicker Nick Novak made 34-of-37 field goals making 9-of-9 from 40-49 yards and 2-of-2 from 50 yards.

Punter Britton Colquitt averages 44.5 yards per punt and has kicked 23-of-65 punts inside the 20. Trindon Holiday returned 32 punts averaging 8.5 yards per return including a long of 81 yards and one touchdown. Holliday averages 27.7 yards per return including 28 returns for 775 yards and a long of 105 yards with one touchdown. Kicker Matt Prater had the highest percentage of made field goals kicking 25-of-26 for 96 percent. He has been perfect (8-for-8) from 40-49 yards and 6-for-7 from 50 or more yards.

Edge: Broncos

Notable Quotable

"We won 13 games this year so I don't know what you consider us if you consider them a hot team. We went on our streaks here and there, we had our bumps in the road and I think that's made us a better team. We faced a lot of adversity this year and now it's time to put up or shut up." - Broncos Terrance Knighton on the importance of post-season efforts.

"We know them, they know us, personnel-wise. It's going to be a great game and great battle. We held them to 28 and 20 points in both games. You never know. It could be a shootout, or it could be a low-scoring game. That's the great thing about the playoffs." - Chargers Eric Weddle on the Chargers and Broncos history.

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Where the action is: Sunday's Divisional line moves

The second and final Divisional Round games are set to go Sunday. The NFC picture will be cleared up as the Carolina Panthers host the San Francisco 49ers. In the AFC, the San Diego Chargers will travel to Denver to face Peyton Manning and the Broncos.

We talk to oddsmakers about all of the betting action coming in on both of these postseason showdowns.

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers - Open: Pick

Books opened this line anywhere from a Pick to Carolina +2.5. Most shops have seen each team spend a little time on either side of the Pick number throughout the week, and the line at most outlets is currently a Pick. The two teams met back in Week 10 with the Panthers prevailing by a score of 10-9.

"Balanced action from both sharps and public on this massive volume game," an oddsmaker from betdsi (http://www.betdsi.com/) tells Covers. "The line has moved all over the place with both teams spending time as the favorite and the dog during the week. Currently the line is sitting at a Pick with a small juice factor favoring the 49ers. That line will probably stay there barring any other strong moves from sharps or from overwhelming public volume come kick off."

The Total has been coming down since post, where most books opened it 43 or 43.5. Seeing as how the two teams combined for 19 points in Week 10, bettors are in love with the Under.

"We bumped this total down from 42 to 41.5 yesterday and I believe we won't have to move this total again as action at the 41.5 is absolutely dead even," said Michael Stewart of CarbonSports.ag.

"This will be biggest NFL decision of the weekend, as 80 percent of cash is on San Francisco and 59 percent of cash is on the Under," says Mike Perry of Sportsbook.ag (http://www.sportsbook.ag/).

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos - Open: -9.5, Move: -8.5

This will be the third time these two AFC West-rivals will square off this season. They split the first two meetings both SU and ATS, with both scorelines finishing under the closing total.

The majority of books opened this either Denver -9.5 or -10 but San Diego money has moved the line to a position where solid two-way action has been coming in.

"We are currently sitting at the -9 value on this game favoring the Broncos," says betdsi (http://www.betdsi.com/)'s oddsmaker. "There is a distinct public vs. sharp split on this match up with sharp betting action backing the Chargers at the +9.5 number as well as the Chargers moneyline at the +350 value. Bet count favors the Broncos at this point, but money wagered actually is a small lean towards the Chargers on the strength of the larger unit plays from sharp players."

The early meetings between the two teams yielded Unders in both games and sharps backed the under as soon as the total was available.

"We went from 56 to 55, going to 55 on Tuesday as sharp money bet under 56 and 55.5," Stewart says. "Since going to 55 we've seen a lot more money come in on the over and I believe we'll be going back to 55.5 at some point later today, or very first thing tomorrow morning."

[Can'tPickAWinner]

English Breakfast: Premier League betting cheat sheet

Premier League action continues with a pair of matches on the board Sunday.

Newcastle United v Manchester City (+400, +300, -138)

Why bet Newcastle: If Newcastle is serious about competing for European spots, home wins are a must. Yes, Manchester City is as good as it gets, but the Citizens are very different away from home. The Magpies have 18 points from 10 home matches this season, which is a very good return.

Key players out/doubtful: Mathieu Debuchy, Ryan Taylor, Fabricio Coloccini

Why bet Manchester City: The Citizens will want to get back to the top-perch of the Premier League table, as they are now two points back of Chelsea. They are the hottest team in the league at the moment and have won five-straight league matches.

Key players out/doubtful: Sergio Agüero, Jack Rodwell, Stevan Jovetic

Previous meeting result: Manchester City 4, Newacastle 0

Key betting note: City have played over the 2.5 goal total in 13 of its last 16 Premier League games.


Stoke v Liverpool (+450, +320, -150)

Why bet Stoke: The Potters play extremely well against Liverpool on their home ground. They have won three and haven't lost any of the last five meetings with Liverpool at the Britannia Stadium. They are battling to stick around in the top 10, so home points are vital at this stage.

Key players out/doubtful: Oussama Assaidi, Asmir Begovic, Andy Wilkinson

Why bet Liverpool: The Reds still have some injury concerns to deal with but could be set to welcome back both Steven Gerrard and Daniel Sturridge to the side. Their away form has let them down of late, and Stoke is a tough place for any side to leave with points. However, so long as Luis Suarez is leading the line, the Reds can beat anyone.

Key players out/doubtful: Jon Flanagan, Daniel Agger, Joe Allen, José Enrique

Previous meeting result: Liverpool 1, Stoke 0

Key betting note: The Potters are unbeaten in their last seven home matches.

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Brenton Ayton

Soccer
Manchester City (England Premier League) 1.70

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Spartan

dime play: Panthers/Niners Under 42

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PREDICTION MACHINE

Against the Spread Picks (Based on Games Played 50,000 times - Print Table):
115 1:05 PM SF @ CAR -1 3.1 55.3%
117 4:40 PM SD @ DEN 10 -8.3 54.5%

Straight-Up Picks (Based on Games Played 50,000 times - Print Table):
118 4:40 PM @ DEN SD 33.9 25.6 69.0%
115 1:05 PM SF @ CAR 21.1 18.0 58.1%

Over/Under Picks (Based on Games Played 50,000 times - Print Table):
118 4:40 PM SD @ DEN 54.5 59.5 Over 56.6%
116 1:05 PM SF @ CAR 42 39.2 Under 55.1%

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Norm Hitzges

SINGLE PLAYS
San Francisco -1 Carolina
San Francisco--Carolina - UNDER 42
Denver--San Diego - OVER 54 1/2

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JEFF CARSON SPORTS

20* under Carolina 43
20* chargers+9.5
10*SF-pk

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H&H Sports

NBA
Double Dime Over Kings

CBB
Triple Dime Ohio U.
Dime Creighton

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LA Syndicate

CBB
Oregon
Utah
Arizona State

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Chicago Syndicate

NFL
Broncos Game & 1st Half

NBA
Grizzlies

CBB
Purdue
Ohio State
Illinois

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Sports Nostradamus

NFL Playoff Total of the Year Over Broncos

CBB
Over Iona
Arizona State
Ohio U.
Purdue

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Jimmy Moore (YouWinNow)

#118 4* Denver -9 (4:40 est) CBS

The Broncos have multiple revenge motivations here since they lost this season at home to the Chargers and they have to be thinking about last year when they lost their home playoff game in a very difficult way to Baltimore. San Diego had their way with Cincinnati but the going will be much more difficult here especially with the big statistical edge enjoyed by the Broncos offense over the Chargers offense. Thank you and good luck.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Hot teams
-- Cavaliers won last two games, by 18-11 points (5-3 last 8 AU). Kings also won their last two games (1-9 HF).
-- Grizzlies covered their last five games (3-2 SU).
-- Minnesota is 5-3 in last eight games, covered last three on road. Spurs won five of last six games (3-1 last four HF).

Cold Teams
-- Hawks lost three of last four on road, covered one of last five.

Series records
-- Cavaliers won three of last four visits to Sacramento.
-- Hawks won six of last seven games with Memphis.
-- Spurs lost three of last four games with Minnesota.

Totals
-- Five of last six Cleveland games stayed under the total.
-- Six of last seven Memphis games went over the total.
-- Over is 5-1-1 in last seven San Antonio games.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NHL

Hot teams
-- Washington won last two games, after losing five of previous six.
-- Islanders won six of their last seven games.
-- Devils won their last two games, allowing one goal.
-- Flyers won six of their last eight games. Rangers won five of last seven.
-- Minnesota won four of its last five games.
-- Anaheim won its last six games, scoring 29 goals.

Cold teams
-- Sabres lost three of their last four games.
-- Dallas lost its last five games, allowing 22 goals.
-- Toronto lost its last four goals, allowing 21 goals.
-- Oilers lost five of their last seven games. Chicago lost four of last five.
-- Predators lost five of their last six games.
-- Red Wings are 3-4 in their last seven games.

Totals
-- Under is 4-0-1 in last five Buffalo games.
-- Four of last five Dallas-Islander games went over total.
-- Under is 6-1-1 in last eight New Jersey games. Over is 5-1-1 in last seven Toronto tilts.
-- Over is 7-3-1 in last eleven Ranger-Philly games.
-- Last seven Edmonton games went over the total.
-- Under is 8-1-1 in last ten Minnesota-Nashville games.
-- Last six Anaheim games went over the total.

Series records
-- Sabres lost three of last four games with Washington.
-- Road team won six of last seven Dallas-Islander games.
-- Maple Leafs won their last five games with New Jersey.
-- Rangers lost last two games with Philly, after winning
-- Blackhawks won four of last five games with Edmonton.
-- Predators lost three of last four games with Minnesota.
-- Red Wings are 5-3 in last eight visits to Anaheim.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

2Halves2Win NFL Sunday Divisional Round Picks:

SUN, 01/12


(GAME: 1*): 1ST HALF: Chargers +6.5 (-110: Risking 1.10 units to win 1.00 units) - TBD (TBDu)

(GAME: 2*): Chargers +8.5 (-110: Risking 2.20 units to win 2.00 units) - TBD (TBDu)

(GAME: 1*): 49ers PK (-110: Risking 1.10 units to win 1.00 units) - TBD (TBDu)

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Free Selection from Arthur Ralph Sports

Free winner Sun: Ohio -5,

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Cappers Access

49ers -1
Chargers +8
UCLA -6

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Gamblers Data

Free Plays Sunday

Sacramento Kings -3.5

Wild +110

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NCAA Basketball Picks

Maryland at Florida State

The Terps head to Tallahassee to face a Florida State team that is coming off a 56-41 win at Clemson and is 14-3-1 ATS in its last 18 games after allowing less than 50 points in their previous game. Florida State is the pick (-6 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Seminoles favored by 12 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Florida State (-6 1/2). Here are all of today's games.


SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. EST


Game 807-808: Nebraska at Purdue (12:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Nebraska 58.342; Purdue 67.257
Dunkel Line: Purdue by 9
Vegas Line: Purdue by 6
Dunkel Pick: Purdue (-6)


Game 809-810: Iowa at Ohio State (1:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Iowa 73.008; Ohio State 78.309
Dunkel Line: Ohio State by 5 1/2
Vegas Line: Ohio State by 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Iowa (+7 1/2)


Game 811-812: Southern Mississippi at Tulsa (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Mississippi 60.697; Tulsa 55.858
Dunkel Line: Southern Mississippi by 5
Vegas Line: Southern Mississippi by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Southern Mississippi (-2 1/2)


Game 813-814: SMU at Louisville (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: SMU 65.137; Louisville 74.931
Dunkel Line: Louisville by 10
Vegas Line: Louisville by 13 1/2
Dunkel Pick: SMU (+13 1/2)


Game 815-816: WI-Green Bay at WI-Milwaukee (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: WI-Green Bay 62.687; WI-Milwaukee 54.627
Dunkel Line: WI-Green Bay by 8
Vegas Line: WI-Green Bay by 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: WI-Green Bay (-5 1/2)


Game 817-818: LaSalle at Duquesne (2:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LaSalle 57.140; Duquesne 56.686
Dunkel Line: Even
Vegas Line: LaSalle by 4
Dunkel Pick: Duquesne (+4)


Game 819-820: Xavier at Creighton (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Xavier 65.940; Creighton 76.104
Dunkel Line: Creighton by 10
Vegas Line: Creighton by 8
Dunkel Pick: Creighton (-8)


Game 821-822: Colorado at Washington (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado 67.072; Washington 67.129
Dunkel Line: Even
Vegas Line: Colorado by 3
Dunkel Pick: Washington (+3)


Game 823-824: San Diego State at Air Force (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego State 67.404; Air Force 59.025
Dunkel Line: San Diego State by 8 1/2
Vegas Line: San Diego State by 11 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Air Force (+11 1/2)


Game 825-826: Northern Illinois at Bowling Green (4:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Illinois 46.330; Bowling Green 57.284
Dunkel Line: Bowling Green by 11
Vegas Line: Bowling Green by 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Bowling Green (-8 1/2)


Game 827-828: Stanford at Oregon (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Stanford 62.909; Oregon 76.082
Dunkel Line: Oregon by 13
Vegas Line: Oregon by 6 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oregon (-6 1/2)


Game 829-830: Akron at Ohio (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Akron 56.563; Ohio 58.656
Dunkel Line: Ohio by 2
Vegas Line: Ohio by 5
Dunkel Pick: Akron (+5)


Game 831-832: Illinois-Chicago at Wright State (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Illinois-Chicago 47.783; Wright State 61.871
Dunkel Line: Wright State by 14
Vegas Line: Wright State by 11
Dunkel Pick: Wright State (-11)


Game 833-834: Utah at Washington State (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 63.421; Washington State 63.298
Dunkel Line: Even
Vegas Line: Utah by 3
Dunkel Pick: Washington State (+3)


Game 835-836: Illinois at Northwestern (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Illinois 63.416; Northwestern 60.965
Dunkel Line: Illinois by 2 1/2
Vegas Line: Illinois by 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Northwestern (+5 1/2)


Game 837-838: Maryland at Florida State (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Maryland 60.141; Florida State 72.843
Dunkel Line: Florida State by 12 1/2
Vegas Line: Florida State by 6 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Florida State (-6 1/2)


Game 839-840: Arizona at USC (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 73.983; USC 63.847
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 10
Vegas Line: Arizona by 12
Dunkel Pick: USC (+12)


Game 841-842: Arizona State at UCLA (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona State 62.035; UCLA 73.695
Dunkel Line: UCLA by 11 1/2
Vegas Line: UCLA by 6
Dunkel Pick: UCLA (-6)


Game 843-844: Monmouth at Canisius (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Monmouth 47.348; Canisius 59.421
Dunkel Line: Canisius by 12
Vegas Line: Canisius by 10
Dunkel Pick: Canisius (-10)


Game 845-846: Rider at Niagara (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Rider 52.651; Niagara 50.586
Dunkel Line: Rider by 2
Vegas Line: Even
Dunkel Pick: Rider


Game 847-848: Marist at Manhattan (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Marist 54.087; Manhattan 61.667
Dunkel Line: Manhattan by 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Manhattan by 12
Dunkel Pick: Marist (+12)


Game 849-850: Iona at Siena (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Iona 56.258; Siena 50.173
Dunkel Line: Iona by 6
Vegas Line: Iona by 3
Dunkel Pick: Iona (-3)


Game 851-852: Quinnipiac at St. Peter's (2:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Quinnipiac 51.048; St. Peter's 50.604
Dunkel Line: Even
Vegas Line: Quinnipiac by 4 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Peter's (+4 1/2)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Sunday, January 12

Nebraska (0-3), Purdue (0-2) are both starved for league win; Boilers are 3-1 in this series, winning by 18 in only meeting here- teams split pair of meetings in Big Dozen tourney. Huskers lost last four games, but they were all vs top 20 teams- they're 8-1 vs teams ranked below #30, but are also 0-4 in true road games, with all four losses by 10+. Purdue allowed 80 ppg in losing its first two league games.

Ohio State lost first game Tuesday in OT at Michigan State, after being down 17 with 7:10 left; Buckeyes won last eight games with Iowa- they won last seven meetings here, with six of seven by 9+ points. Iowa lost its two true road games, by 3 at Iowa State, 4 at Wisconsin- their eFG% defense (41.7%) is #6 in country, but OSU's is #5, plus they force TOs 22.9% of time. McCaffery returns to bench after 1-game suspension.

Home side won six of last seven Southern Miss-Tulsa games; Eagles are 0-4 in last four visits here, losing by 9-15-8-8 points. Southern Miss is 5-2 on road with wins at DePaul/North Dakota State- they're forcing a turnover 23.7% of time (#9) but also turning ball over 22.1% (#326 in US). Tulsa won its last five home games after losing to Oral Roberts and Wichita in first two home games this year.

Louisville split its last four games; they're 1-3 vs top 100 teams, routing Southern Miss by 30 for best win. Cardinals are forcing turnovers 25% of time, #3 in US. SMU hasn't played in eight days; they're 2-3 vs top 100 teams, beating Wyoming/UConn- their three losses are by 11-3-8 to Arkansas-Virginia-Cincy. AAC home favorites are 4-5 vs spread, 3-1 if they're laying 7 or more points.

Green Bay was 3-0 vs Milwaukee LY, winning by 20-17-16; home side is 7-2 in last nine series games- Phoenix lost three of last four visits here, with LY's 74-54 win ended 3-game skid here. Green Bay won its last six games since loss at Eastern Michigan- they've got wins at So. Dakota, Chicago State. Milwaukee is 4-2 at home, losing to DePaul/Cleveland State. Horizon home teams are 8-5 vs spread; they were all favored.

Creighton has injury issues; Gibbs is out 4 weeks (knee), McDermott is ?able (shoulder). Bluejays won first three Big East games by 18-13-19 points- they're making 43.3% from arc (#1 in US). Xavier also won its last eight games, winning first three league games by 10-11-7- they're 3-0 SU this year when getting points, beating Iowa-Cincy-Alabama. Single digit home favorites are 4-1 vs spread in Big East play.

Home side won both Colorado-Washington games in Pac-12 play, with Buffs losing by 10 here LY; Colorado is 14-1 in last 15 games after they survived Wazzu in Spokane Thursday- they're 2-0 in true road games, winning by 5 at Colorado State, 24 at Air Force. Huskies won four of last five games with only loss to Arizona- they beat Utah by hoop last game- Utes were only 1-15 from arc.

Oregon won three of last four games with Stanford; Cardinal lost its last two visits to Euguene, by 11 points each- they lost first two games in league by 7-9 points, making just 2-8 from arc in loss at Oregon State on Thursday. Ducks allowed 98 ppg in losing last two games after starting 13-0; three of their last six wins came in OT. Oregon is making 40.1% of its 3's (#21). Pac-12 home favorites are 5-6 vs spread.

Akron was 3-0 vs Ohio LY, winning by 14-7-19 points; teams met in 3 of last 4 MAC tourneys. Zips split their last six visits here, won three games in row, but last two were by combined total of five points against Marshall/Ball State. Ohio is 7-1 at home with only loss to UMass by 12; Bobcats are shooting just 31.2% from arc. Underdogs are 6-1 vs spread in MAC games with single digit spread.

Home side won both Utah-Washington State games in Pac-12 play, with Utes losing here by 10 LY; Utah was 6-31 from arc in its two losses in Pac-12, 12-22 in the win over Oregon State- they're #1 in US, making 59% of 2-point shots. Washington State is 0-3 in Pac-12 with its top scorer Lacy having appendicitis; Coogs lost to Colorado by points last game in Spokane- this is their first Pac-12 game on actual home court.

Road team won last four Illinois-Northwestern games; Illini won its last two visits here, by 1-21 points. Illinois is 1-2 in true road games- they got whacked at Wisconsin last game, also lost by 3 at Ga Tech, won by a hoop at UNLV. Big Dozen home teams are 2-7 vs spread in games with single digit spread. Northwestern lost last four games; none of last three was even close. Sitting next to Coach K doesn't make you a head coach.

Florida State won five of last six games, holding Clemson to 41 points in last game; Seminoles are holding teams to 39% inside arc- their eFG% of 41.3% is #4 in US. ACC underdogs of 7 or less points are 8-3 vs spread, 4-0 on road. Maryland has better guard depth with allen back; Terps are 1-2 on road, losing by 16-20 at Ohio State/Pitt, winning at BC- they are making 37.1% from arc, which helps offset FSU's interior defense.

UCLA won seven of last nine games with Arizona State, winning four in row at Pauley Pavilion by 2-18-17-5 points- they beat Sun Devils in OT here LY and then again in Pac-12 tourney, both by five. ASU is 3-2 vs top 100 teams, losing by 28 to Marquette, only top 50 foe. UCLA led Arizona by point with 1:44 left Thursday before losing by 4; Bruins are 2-3 vs top 100 teams, beating UCSB by 13, Alabama by 8.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

R.A.W. FOOTBALL - SUNDAY NFL


3* = DENVER BRONCOS
2* = "UNDER" on BRONCOS/CHARGERS


No Play On the NFC Playoff Game

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Power Play Wins
NFL SF +1
NFL Denver -9
NBA Spurs -6

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BIG AL McMORDIE

5* NFL TOTAL OF THE YEAR

OVER - San Diego vs Denver

[Can'tPickAWinner]

VEGAS SPORTS INFORMER

3 Unit Play. #115 Take San Francisco -1 over Carolina (1:00p.m., Sunday, Jan 12 FOX)
Was really impressed on how good the 49ers played at Green Bay last week. QB play will be the biggest factor in this game and if Kaepernick can run and stretch the Panthers defense then we could see the 49ers win another road game. If Cam Newton gets hot and the rushing game explodes then this play is in trouble. Turnovers will decide the factor in this game and I see Cam Newton having a difficult time with the 49ers defense. Carolina is 1-4 ATS in the month of January and the 49ers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 Divisional Playoff games. San Fran has struggled against Carolina but this is playoff football and the 49ers pull out another road victory.

2 Unit Play. #106 Take Over 54 - San Diego at Denver (4:40p.m., Sunday, Jan 12 CBS)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

DOC SPORTS

2 Unit Play. #116 Take Carolina Panthers +1 over San Francisco 49ers (Sunday 1 pm FOX) The 49ers survived against the Green Bay Packers last Sunday and now must make a cross country flight to face the No. 2 seed Carolina Panthers. I believe jetlag will catch up with them and allow the Panthers to march onto the NFC Championship Game. The Panthers are expected to get Steve Smith back for this game and that will fill a major void on the offensive side of the football. San Francisco struggled to score points against a terrible Green Bay defense, especially in the redzone. Carolina is 6-0 ATS (1 push) in their last 6 home games.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

WINNING POINTS

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Purdue* over Nebraska by 4
The series was split 1-1 last season, when Nebraska lost here by 9 points playing without a key forward (since departed). Purdue had four double-digit scorers a year ago, two this season.
PURDUE, 60-56.

Ohio State* over Iowa by 12
How tough is Iowa defensively, really? Not really, right?
OHIO STATE, 82-70.

Tulsa* over Southern Miss by 1
Southern Miss likes to play aggressive defense, often a problem on the road. Not a
problem when they won 59-56 here last year, though.
TULSA, 62-61.

Louisville* over SMU by 19

Wisconsin-GB over Wisconsin-Milwaukee by 6

Lasalle over Duquesne* by 2

Creighton* over Xavier by 9

Washington* over Colorado by 4
The Romar Roundballers woke up for the beginning of Pac 12 play. With a power
rating deflated enough to make Colorado a possible favorite on the road, we might
add, which is not an encouraging thing to buy into.
WASHINGTON, 74-70.

San Diego State over Air Force* by 14

Bowling Green* over Northern Illinois by 12

***BEST BET
Oregon* over Stanford by 23
As they entered Pac 12 season, four Stanford players average 33 to 34 minutes per
game. That’s some job of building depth over the years by Coach K Klone Johnny
Dawkins, Mr. NIT. Oregon’s Dana Altman and other new coaches have come into
the conference to help stunt Stanford’s growth. It would be nice to see Oregon (89
ppg, stockpiling players) run them outta the gym.
OREGON, 90-67.

Ohio* over Akron by 10

Wright State* over Illinois-Chicago by 16

**PREFERRED
Washington State* over Utah by 6
Sure, everyone and his brother will pile on against Washington State, as ‘that team
that scored only 25 points at Arizona, 7 in the first half!’ But like head coach Ken
Bone said, “We had to open conference season on the road against the best team.”
Now they’re home, not against the best team. Far from it, actually. Bone liked what
he saw defensively in that game and they aren’t physically overmatched in this affair.
WASHINGTON STATE, 68-62.

Illinois over Northwestern* by 9
The Fighting Illini lost a home game to Northwestern by 14 points last season, when
they were in the midst of a weird dry spell and six losses in seven games. Later, they
would beat Northwestern by 21 on the road and eventually make the NCAA
Tournament.
ILLINOIS, 70-61.

Florida State* over Maryland by 7

Arizona over USC* by 12

UCLA* over Arizona State by 7

[Can'tPickAWinner]

WINNING POINTS

PRO BASKETBALL

***BEST BET
Cleveland over *Sacramento by 7
Certainly there are better teams to trust on the road than Cleveland, but the Kings
must be faded when chalk. Sacramento has been favored 10 times this season through
this past Thursday and has failed to cover each time, including losing at home to
Philadelphia by nine points 10 days ago and to Charlotte also by 10 eight days ago.
The Kings have shown a repeated failure at home, too, failing to cover in 13 of their
first 19 home contests.
CLEVELAND 103-96.

*Memphis over Atlanta by 5
The Hawks are capable of spreading the floor and frustrating opponents, but have
been much weaker on the road and lack any star power with Josh Smith and Joe
Johnson both gone and Al Horford likely out for the season.
MEMPHIS 98-93.

*San Antonio over Minnesota by 7
The Timberwolves covered in their last visit to San Antonio losing 117-110 on Dec.
13 and have been on a scoring spree putting up at least 116 points in five of their past
eight games through last Sunday.
SAN ANTONIO 119-112.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

POINTWISE

COLLEGIATE
BASKETBALL PROPHECY

COLLEGE KEY RELEASES
ILLINOIS over Northwestern (Sun) RATING: 3

(12:00) PURDUE 63 - Nebraska 56 (BIG10) _____ _____

(1:00) OHIO STATE 70 - Iowa 64 (CBS) _____ _____

(1:00) Southern Mississippi 67 - TULSA 66 (FOX1) _____ _____

(1:00) LOUISVILLE 95 - Smu 69 (CBSC) _____ _____

(2:00) Wisc-Green Bay 71 - WISC-MILWAUKEE 63 _____ _____

(2:30) LaSalle 82 - DUQUESNE 77 (NBCS) _____ _____

(3:00) CREIGHTON 78 - Xavier 70 (CBSC) _____ _____

(3:00) WASHINGTON 67 - Colorado 65 (FOX1) _____ _____

(4:00) San Diego State 66 - AIR FORCE 57 _____ _____

(4:30) BOWLING GREEN 62 - Northern Illinois 46 _____ _____

(5:00) OREGON 79 - Stanford 61 (FOX1) _____ _____

(6:00) Akron 69 - OHIO U 68 _____ _____

(7:00) WRIGHT STATE 57 - Illinois-Chicago 54 _____ _____

(7:00) Utah 74 - WASHINGTON STATE 73 _____ _____

(7:30) Illinois 70 - NORTHWESTERN 57 (BIG10) _____ _____

(8:00) FLORIDA STATE 78 - Maryland 69 (ESPNU) _____ _____

(9:00) Arizona State 75 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 74 _____ _____

(10:00) UCLA 77 - Arizona State 72 (ESPNU) _____ _____

BEST BETS
WISC-GREEN BAY
ILL-CHICAGO
ILLINOIS (3)
ARIZONA STATE

[Can'tPickAWinner]

POINTWISE

NBA BASKETBALL

(6:05) SACRAMENTO 106 - Cleveland Cavs 102 (NBA) _____ _____

(6:05) MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES 97 - Atlanta Hawks 87 _____ _____

(7:05) SAN ANTONIO SPURS 118 - Minnesota 112 _____ _____

BEST BET: MEMPHIS (4)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Today's NBA Picks

Minnesota at San Antonio

The Spurs host a Minnesota team tonight that is coming off a 119-92 win over Charlotte and is 3-10 ATS in its last 13 games following an ATS victory. San Antonio is the pick (-6) according to Dunkel, which has the Spurs favored by 8. Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-6). Here are all of today's picks.


SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Time Posted: 9:00 a.m. EST


Game 801-802: Cleveland at Sacramento (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 113.411; Sacramento 120.115
Dunkel Line & Total: Sacramento by 6 1/2; 202
Vegas Line & Total: Sacramento by 3 1/2; 206 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (-3 1/2); Under


Game 803-804: Atlanta at Memphis (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 116.965; Memphis 124.264
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 7 1/2; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 4 1/2; 192 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (-4 1/2); Over


Game 805-806: Minnesota at San Antonio (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 120.831; San Antonio 128.946
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 8; 216
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 6; 211 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (-6); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Today's NHL Picks

Philadelphia at NY Rangers

The Flyers travel to New York to face a Rangers team that is 0-9 in its last 9 games against Metropolitan Division opponents. Philadelphia is the pick (+125) according to Dunkel, which has the Flyers favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (+125). Here are all of today's picks.


SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
Time Posted: 9:00 a.m. EST


Game 1-2: Buffalo at Washington (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 9.879; Washington 11.435
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-210); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-210); Under


Game 3-4: NY Islanders at Dallas (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Islanders 12.213; Dallas 9.725
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 2 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas (-150); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (+130); Over


Game 5-6: New Jersey at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 10.061: Toronto 11.578
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-145); 5
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-145); Under


Game 7-8: Philadelphia at NY Rangers (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 12.049; NY Rangers 10.933
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1; 6
Vegas Line & Total: NY Rangers (-145); 5
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (+125); Over


Game 9-10: Edmonton at Chicago (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Edmonton 11.773; Chicago 11.395
Dunkel Line & Total: Edmonton by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago (-280); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (+230); Over


Game 11-12: Minnesota at Nashville (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 10.805; Nashville 12.422
Dunkel Line & Total: Nashville by 1 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Nashville (-135); 5
Dunkel Pick: Nashville (-135); Under


Game 13-14: Detroit at Anaheim (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 10.098; Anaheim 12.727
Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 2 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Anaheim (-210); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (-210); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations™ - FoxSheets.

CBB IL-CHICAGO at WRIGHT ST
Play Against - Home favorites of 10 to 19.5 points (WRIGHT ST) average 3PT shooting team (32-36.5%) against a poor 3PT defense (>=36.5%), good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO's) against a poor pressure defense (<=14.5 TO's) after 15+ games
54-23 over the last 5 seasons. ( 70.1% 28.7 units )

CBB IOWA at OHIO ST
Play On - A road team vs. the money line (IOWA) in a game involving two excellent defensive teams (<=40%), good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO) vs. an average pressure defense (14.5-17.5 TO) after 15+ games
84-93 since 1997. ( 47.5% 30.5 units )

CBB MONMOUTH at CANISIUS
Play On - Road underdogs of 6 or more points vs. the first half line (MONMOUTH) off an upset win over a conference rival as an underdog, playing their 2nd game in 3 days
46-18 over the last 5 seasons. ( 71.9% 26.2 units )
2-1 this year. ( 66.7% 0.9 units )

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations™ - FoxSheets

NBA MINNESOTA at SAN ANTONIO
Play Under - Any team after a blowout win by 20 points or more against opponent after leading in their previous game by 20 or more points at the half
54-23 since 1997. ( 70.1% 28.7 units )
3-1 this year. ( 75.0% 1.9 units )

NBA ATLANTA at MEMPHIS
Play Against - Any team vs the money line (MEMPHIS) after beating the spread by 30 or more points total in their last three games, on Sunday games
58-39 over the last 5 seasons. ( 59.8% 34.2 units )
4-5 this year. ( 44.4% -1.5 units )

NBA CLEVELAND at SACRAMENTO
Play Under - Home teams where the first half total is 100.5 to 105.5 after going over the total by 18 or more points total in their last three games against opponent after going under the total by 42 or more points total in their last seven games
89-45 since 1997. ( 66.4% 39.5 units )
7-4 this year. ( 63.6% 2.6 units )

NBA ATLANTA at MEMPHIS
Play Against - Home favorites vs. the 1rst half line (MEMPHIS) after going over the total by 30 or more points total in their last three games against opponent after going under the total by 42 or more points total in their last seven games
63-29 over the last 5 seasons. ( 68.5% 31.1 units )
4-2 this year. ( 66.7% 1.8 units )

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Marc Lawrence

3 car
3 den

[Can'tPickAWinner]

SPORTS WAGERS

CAROLINA +105 over San Francisco

Line opened with the 49ers being favored by 2½ points and it’s come down since, although the public is still leaning to the Niners. This is a replay of week 10 when the Panthers won 10-9 in San Francisco. But even the Vegas line doesn't believe that week 10 means that much coming into this one with the 49ers sporting an improved team and the Panthers showing up as a newbie to the post season. San Fran doesn’t need much of an introduction. We all know who they are and it’s worth noting that Michael Crabtree didn’t play in the first game and his importance can’t be overstated enough. Crabtree is a game changer.

Carolina hasn’t really won over the public yet but that and that’s because they don’t get the exposure of these other big name teams that seem to show up on prime time games every week. Teams like Seattle, San Fran, New Orleans, New England, Denver, Dallas and Philadelphia are constantly in the limelight while not many are watching Panthers games. In fact, when the Panthers did show in prime time back on Sunday night in Week 14, they were buried by the Saints, 31-14. That was the Panthers only loss in their past 12 games. Carolina also went 7-1 at home with only loss occurring on opening day when the Seahawks defeated them, 12-7. Furthermore, teams with a bye in the first round of the playoffs went 2-0 yesterday. The 49ers traveled to Green Bay last week and played a physical game in frigid temperatures. Those games in extreme cold temperatures take a much bigger toll than playing in normal conditions and these aren’t the Packers on defense. Carolina's defense ranks sixth against the pass and second overall. That's a significant difference than facing Green Bay. The 49ers' Colin Kaepernick was sacked four times by Carolina's four-man pass rush, and six times total in the first game between these teams. Most importantly, when the public is leaning one way and the line is moving the other way, it’s a big warning flag that should not be ignored.

NOTE: We’re passing on the late game.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

SPORTS WAGERS NHL

New Jersey +121 over TORONTO

OT included. There is no reason whatsoever to stop fading the Maple Leafs. Toronto has dropped four straight and has been outscored over that stretch by a count of 21-7. In their last two home games, the Leafs have been outscored by a count of 12-4. Over their past 24 games, the Maple Leafs have two regulation wins and that is the worst mark over that span in the NHL. There is no turnaround coming either. From poor defense to forwards not back-checking, to being badly outshot almost every game, to Randy Carlyle being on the hot seat, the Maple Leafs have turned into a tentative team that is playing scared and being at home right now is not beneficial. To make matters worse, Toronto will face a Devils team that has allowed the least amount of scoring chances and shots on net in the NHL.

The Devils figure to be sky high for this game for a couple of reasons. First, they are tied with the Leafs with 47 points and could move further up the standings into eighth place with a win here. More importantly, New Jersey has lost five in a row to the Maple Leafs and this is an outstanding opportunity to get that proverbial monkey off its back. The Devils have outshot the Maple Leafs 125-78 over their past four meetings and lost them all. This time around, however, Cory Schneider will make his third straight start after winning his last two and allowing just one goal against combined. Schneider played last night against Florida and he played in Thursday’s 1-0 win over Dallas. The Devils are so determined to win here that they are sticking with Schneider despite him playing three games in four days. In the second game of back-to-back games this season, the Devils are 9-3. In the second game of back-to-backs after winning the first one the Devils are 3-0. These two are going in opposite directions right now and it isn’t likely to stop here.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

SPORTS WAGERS CBB

NORTHWESTERN +5½ -110 over Illinois

The Illini are ranked for the 1st time this year at #23 and one of our favorite angles over the years is to fade overpriced teams when they make the polls for the first time. Spotting points with ranked teams on the road against unranked opposition has been a bankroll killer for years. Illinois’ 13-3 record is all smoke and mirrors when you consider these rankings on the Illini:

-184th in points per game

-101st in rebounding

-316th in assists

-252 in FG %

Illinois is 1-3 in road games with only win occurring against UNLV by 2 points. Outside of a 1-point win over Mizzou, Illinois has defeated a bunch of marshmallows. Illinois’ frontcourt duo of Jon Ekey and Nnanna Egwu are soft on the boards and they are not producing offensively either.

Northwestern has played a tough schedule recently with three consecutive games against Michigan, Wisconsin and Iowa. They’ve also played Mizzou, UCLA and NC State in successive games back in late November. The Wildcats have issues but they play a strong defensive game and taking back points in a low scoring game has value. It’s also worth noting that the Illini are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 vs. Big Ten and they were badly exposed by Wisconsin in their last game with a 25-point loss.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mark Franco
NFL

SAN FRAN PK

DENVER-9

[Can'tPickAWinner]

PSYCHIC
(1-5)

5 unit San Francisco -1 (WISEGUY)

WIZARD
(1-10)

7 unit Denver -9.5

JT WALKER
(all units same one unit)

1 unit Akron +5

Totals 4 U
(1-100% ratings)

72% over 54.5 Denver/SD

Iceman
(1-3)

1 unit Nashville -3

Genius
(1-10)

5 unit Cleveland +3.5

Sports Advisors, Joe Wright
(1-5)

3 unit Memphis -4.5

The Sports Report
(1-10)

4 unit San Antonio -6

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Erin Rynning

20 sf/car under 41

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sports Cash System

extra pick:

Denver Broncos -8 over the San Diego Chargers (Spread Bet) (NFL Football) - Game Starts at 4:40 PM EST

[Can'tPickAWinner]

EAGLE EYE----Randy Rose
Your Pick: San Diego Chargers +10 (-130)
Your Pick: San Francisco 49ers (-122)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BANKROLL SPORTS

10* San Diego Chargers +8 (NFL)
5* San Francisco 49ers -1 (NFL)
4* 49ers @ Panthers Over 41 (NFL)
3* SMU Mustangs +14 (CBB)
2* Air Force Falcons +11.6 (CBB)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Scott Stylze

49ers +1
Denver -8.5

CBB

Iowa +7

[Can'tPickAWinner]

ASA's Pick Pack
NFL Sunday Picks

Premium Plays
Matchup: San Francisco at Carolina
Time: 1:00 PM EDT (Sun)
Play: Over (41 -109)
Line Source: 5Dimes
Posted on: January 10, 2014 @ 12:43:26 PM EST

The first meeting this season was won by Carolina, 10-9. San Francisco didn't have star receiver Michael Crabtree available that game and TE Vernon Davis left that game early with a concussion. That explains why QB Kaepernick was only 11-of-22 passing for 91 yards with no scores and an interception. Crabtree has returned to the lineup since that game and he's added a new dimension to this offense and Kaepernick's numbers have improved over that span. Kaepernick is completing 60% of his passes with 8 TD and 2 INT in six games with Crabtree in the lineup (SF is 6-0) compared to 57% with 13 TD and 6 INT in 11 games without him (SF is 7-4). The Niners have averaged 25.8 PPG over the last six games and we expect them to reach that number easily on Sunday. This game pits two of the top run defenses against each other. The Niners rank 4th in the NFL, allowing just 95.9 rush yards per game. The Panthers rank 2nd in the NFL, allowing just 86.9 rush yards per game. In the first meeting, Carolina had 109 rush yards (3.5 YPC) and San Fran had 105 (4.3 YPC). With both defenses so stout against the run both quarterbacks will be forced to air it out more - extending the game and creating more opportunities for big plays. Carolina had the Wild Card weekend off to rest and prepare for this game and we expect their offense to be sharp against the Niners on Sunday. Last week Green Bay and San Fran totaled 43 points in subzero temperatures and high winds. SF moved the ball with relative ease, totaling 381 yards and 22 first downs. Weather won't be a factor this week and these two should easily exceed 41 points. Take the OVER.

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Ben Burns Super Total

9* San Diego/Denver Under

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Ken Thomson

1* Utah -2

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Nemo
ship it
SDG

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Teddy Covers

20* Chargers +9.5

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Brandon Lang

150 DIME
-MAX WAGER-
#9 OF 12 GOES NOW
Broncos


BONUS PLAY
50 DIME
PLAYOFF WINNER
#3 IN A ROW
Niners

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Goodfella

3* Chargers

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Joe Gavazzi

3 Denver Over
2 Denver
2 Niners
2 Niners Under

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Northcoast

Top opinions
Under 41 SF/car
Carolina +1


Regular opinions
Over 54 SD/Denver
Denver -8

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Bob Akmens

CAROLINA +1
DENVER -8.5

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MTI's Sports

4* Denver over 54

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Tony George

Purdue -6.5

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SportsOptions
College Basketball
840 USC
836 Northwestern
822 Washington
852 St. Peter's
818 Duquesne
850 Siena
816 Wisc Milwaukee

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Sports Nostradamus

Added

CBB
Big Play So Miss
Regular Play Over LaSalle

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Joe Wiz

NFL Phone Service
Chargers

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Sean Michaels
100 DIME
Playoff Mismatch of the Year
49ers

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LA Syndicate

Added

CBB Over Arizona

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Chicago Syndicate

Added

CBB
Under Purdue
Over Iowa

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Ecks and Bacon

Ben lee won on Saturday with the Patriots -7/Colts.

For Sunday E&B like the 49"s -1/Panthers. **Best Bet**

E&B also have a lean on the Chargers +9/Broncos.

Ecks and Bacon is 4-1 +$145 for week Eleven and is 41-49-2 -$1221

All E&B selections will be for $50 unless noted

[golden contender]

Sunday card has the 6* NFL Playoff Game of the Year from a 100% System dating to 1976, The Other NFL Side is a 5* With 3 Powerful Playoff systems all cashing over 90%. NFL Playoffs have cashed big the first 3 days. NBA is top ranked on several leader boards there are 2 up today a 5* with 3 systems one is 16-0, the other is a 12-0 System dating to 1995. In NCAAB Action we have The Big 10 Game of the Month- another Solid card. Free NCAAB Play below.


On Sunday the free NCAAB Play is on Utah. Game 833 at 7:00 eastern. The Utes are 12-3 on the season and have some solid advantages here tonight against Washington. St. Utah has won al 6 times with 5 spread wins as a favorite this season and are 5-0 vs losing teams. In games after allowing 60 or less points they have covered 17 of 24 and all 3 this season in that role. They go to Washington St tonight to take on a Cougars team that has lost 7 of 9 vs winning teams an 14 of the last 18 in January games. In the 2nd half of the season long term they are 16-52 vs teams who average 77 or more points per game. Look for Utah to get the win and cover here tonight. On Sunday end the week big with the 6* NFL Playoff Game Of The Year from a never lost playoff system dating to 1976. We also have a 5* in the other NFL Game from 3 powerful system All cashing over 90%. In the NBA We keep rolling and are at the top of several leader boards. Tonight we have the 5* Triple perfect 26-0 side with a 16-0 lead system and a 12-0 System in the other game + NCAAB lead play is the Big 10 Game of the Month. Message to Jump on now and flatten your book with Powerful data you wont see anywhere else. For the free NCAAB Play take Utah. GC

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Sports Unlimited/Marco (posted yesterday)

5* 7point teaser Seattle and Denver

3* Indy

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LINEBEATERS
Sunday NFL
49ers -1
Chargers +9
*
Sunday NBA
Spurs -6
*
Sunday NHL
Blackhawks -270
Ducks +175
*
Sunday NCAAB
Arizona State +6.5

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Sports Cash System Play of The Day for Today: 1/12
NFL Football





San Francisco 49ers / Carolina Panthers OVER 41
(Total Points Bet)



Overall Record: 201-174

(System Record: 201-8, Won last game)

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Intpicks
2* 49ers
1* Denver -9
1* Ohio st-6.5
1* Green Bay -5
1* Minnesota - San Antonio Over 211

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Antony Dinero

Broncos -8

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Vegas Insiders
Broncos -8
49ers pk
Stanford +7
Air Force +11.5
Xavier +8.5
Ohio State -7

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windy city winners cbb

Purdue -7
UCLA -6 1/2
Utah -2 1/2
Illinois -5 1/2
Xavier +9

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silky sullivan
marist

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Doc Sports
CBB
4 Unit Play. #816 Take Milwaukee Panthers +5.5 over Green Bay Phoenix (2 pm TW Sports)








4 Unit Play. #835 Take Illinois Fighting Illini -5.5 over Northwestern Wildcats (7:30 pm Big 10 Network) Much like our picks of late, Northwestern is trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. Chris Collins has a bunch of players from a different system than he wants to play and this team has been getting blown out in every Big Ten game this season including a 27 point loss to Wisconsin at home. They will be pumped to play Illinois, but that will fade as this game approaches the second half. Illinois has many more weapons and they have a bad feeling about how they played at Wisconsin this week and want to get that taste out of their mouth. Northwestern is 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games.


4 Unit Play. #841 Take Arizona State Sun Devils +6.5 over UCLA Bruins (10 pm ESPN U) Arizona State has more talent than does UCLA and I truly believe that if this game is in Tempe they would be just as big of a favorite as they are an underdog in this game. UCLA made a late run to catch Arizona and still lost and I believe that took a lot out of them. Arizona State has covered 5 of their last 6 games overall. UCLA is 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games against teams with a winning road record.

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Kelso
NFL
Carolina
source / insiders plays
Under 41.5 - Carolina / San Fran
CBB
IOWA +7

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Greg Shaker


840 Southern California / 839 Arizona OVER 138.0 Bookmaker.com


Analysis: I have 142.7 and so I am playing it. USC cannot compete with the Wildcats in a half court situation. They WILL push the action tonight. This number is up from 137 and it happened pretty quickly as these CBB Totals do do a lot. I'm playing it now

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Harry Bondi 3* on Illinois

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Cleveland Insider

NBA
1* Hawks/Grizzlies over 191.5

NHL
2* Edmonton/Chicago over 5.5

CBB
1* Stanford/Oregon under 158

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CHRIS JORDAN

200* 49ers/Chargers teaser

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RAS has Iowa. He took +7.5

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Diamond Dog Sports

2* Over Chargers

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Vegas Runner

no ratings posted

panthers +1.5
sd/den under 55.5

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ATS Lock Club
3* Chargers +9

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vegas-runner | NFL Side Sun, 01/12/14 - 1:00 PM
triple-dime bet 116 CAR 1.5 (-110) bodog vs 115 SFX Analysis: ÷**** NFL 3* MAX TRUE STEAM SET-UP ****


PANTHERS +1.5....(3*)...Bovada's dealing +3 (-125) !!

vegas-runner | NFL Money Line Sun, 01/12/14 - 1:00 PM
dime bet 116 CAR (+110) bodog vs 115 SFX Analysis: * NFL MORNING MOVES 1* MONEY-LINE STEAM *PANTHERS ML (+110)....(1*)

vegas-runner | NFL Total Sun, 01/12/14 - 4:40 PM
double-dime bet 117 SDC / 118 DEN Under 55.5 bodog Analysis: ô** NFL PLAYOFFS 2* TRUE STEAM **
UNDER 55.5 SD/DEN....(2*)....Possible 3* UPGRADE before Kick-Off !!

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Mysystempicks
2.5* Panthers +1
1.5* Broncos -8

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Mighty Quinn

Mighty pushed with the Seahawks (-8) on Saturday and likes the 49ers on Sunday.

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Diamond Dog Sports
NBA
4* Over - Grizzlies - 193.0 -110
CBB
1* #813 SMU +13.0 -110

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HONDO Divisional Playoff Week

49ers-Panthers: These teams may look like mirror images — dynamic QBs, grind-it-out offenses, smothering defenses — but further reflection shows otherwise. And don’t read too much into the way the Panthers’ Kaepernickel Defense shut down SF’s QB in their Week 10 win. Since then, two key weapons — Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree — have returned to the Niners, while Steve Smith is now hobbling on a bad knee. It may take the Kaeped Krusader’s (Ric) Flair for the dramatic, but expect San Fran to pin a narrow defeat on the Panthers. 49ers 19-16.
Chargers-Broncos: It’s Mile High, so the joint will be jumping, and it will be puffed and passed as well. Freak stat: The last four Super Bowl winners have played the Eagles in their home openers, which would seem to bode well for the Chargers, who saddled the Broncos their only home loss. However, Wes Welker’s return puts Denver’s receiving corps at full strength, which should be enough to prevent Peyton from having to explain another embarrassing early playoff dismissal. SD’s Super dream will go up in smoke, but don’t hesitate to bolt down a bet on the Chargers. Broncos 35-27.

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Wunderdog Sports Free Pick

Game: Iowa at Ohio State (1:30 PM Eastern)
Pick: Ohio State -6.5 (-105) at 5Dimes

A giant Big 10 battle between two Top 20 teams. One weakness for Iowa is they are not big in the frontcourt, and that weakness shows up on the road where they are winless. That will be a concern against the No. 3 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes, who shoot 47% as a team behind 6-11 junior center Amir Williams and 6-8 LaQuinton Ross pounding the frontcourt. Ohio State is off a close loss in OT at Michigan State and is a great bounce back team, 9-4 ATS following a loss. And it was their first defeat of the season, so they will not be kind to their visitors. Ohio State has won the last eight games against Iowa in the series, the longest winning streak for the Buckeyes over Iowa all-time. Thad Matta is 11-4 overall vs. the Hawkeyes, and Ohio State is 7-1 ATS against a team with a winning record. Throw in the fact that the Buckeyes are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 vs. the Big Ten and grab the home court. Play the Ohio State Buckeyes.

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TMC Sports Advisors

NFL

Yesterday 3-0-1


San Francisco -1

San Francisco/Carolina Over 41

Denver -7.5

San Diego/Denver Under 55.5

Free Pick

Spurs -6

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SPORTS NETWORK

OVERALL ANALYSIS
Given the similar blueprints to how the teams run, the biggest difference going into Sunday's matchup postseason experience.


"Our guys have done this before. It isn't the first time they have done this. Onward now," said Harbaugh after the Green Bay game.


Newton is doing his best to shake off the lack of experience talk and both he and Rivera have mentioned that they fell the Panthers have been playing postseason football for weeks thanks to the slow start and tight race in the NFC, one that saw the 10-6 Arizona Cardinals not make the playoffs.


"(Less playoff experience) doesn't mean anything. We're all playing on a clean slate as far as playoff preparation. To be honest, this is similar to the games we've played all season, must-have wins," said the Panthers quarterback.


Then there is the fact that the Panthers have already bested the Niners once this season.


"I think one thing it did help is that San Francisco is a very physical football team and we were able to play with them and win the game. I think that really helped instill a little bit of confidence as to the type of football team we can be. They are the measuring stick of the NFC because they're the defending NFC champs," said Rivera.


Just like Newton can't worry about making his playoff debut, the Niners aren't likely to come in worried about mimicking the earlier loss. While it could once again prove to be a defensive test, the additions of Davis and Crabtree to the mix should tilt the field in San Francisco's favor.


Sports Network Predicted Outcome: 49ers 20, Panthers 16

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Kelso 100 Caro 10 SD

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Sports Unlimited/Marco

15* Playoff LOY Denver

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LT LOCK

Carolina Pick 'Em
Denver -8

Creighton -8

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Sebastian Football

100* over SF/Carolina
100* Denver
500* Private Play: over 54 SD/Denver

200* Northwestern NCAAB

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SPORTS NETWORK

OVERALL ANALYSIS
Most believe the Chargers are playing with house money while Manning and the Broncos will be facing enormous pressure, especially after last season's late- game divisional-round setback to Baltimore.


"Going on the road in a playoff game is not going to be easy, regardless of who you're playing," McCoy said. "We're just worrying about ourselves right now, it's about us, and we're going to keep taking it one week at a time and just keep going, keep plugging away."


The harsh reality is that Manning has lost his last three postseason games and is just 4-6 in his past 10 games against the Chargers, including playoff losses during the 2007 and 2008 while he was with the Indianapolis Colts. Conversely, Rivers is 6-2 all-time in Denver with a 99.1 passer rating in those games.


All that said, this Denver team is capable of making multiple mistakes and still coming out on top. The margin of error is far greater for the Broncos this time around and San Diego won't be able to keep up for 60 minutes.


"Maybe as you get older you think more along the lines of, this is a very unique opportunity," Manning said. "To be in this position, to be one of just a few teams playing. It'll be a great atmosphere on Sunday, playing a good football team -- there's nothing else I'd rather be doing than being in that opportunity."


Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Broncos 34, Chargers 24

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EXECUTIVE NFL

400 den
250 caro

EXECUTIVE HOOPS

250 colo

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Bondi 4* Denv -7.5 3* SF pk

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Las Vegas Pipeline

AFC Playoff GOY

20* Denver

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Fat Jack

#115 SAN FRAN -1

#115 san fran UNDER 41

#118 denver UNDER 54

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Rainman

49ers
49ers/Caro Over
Chargers

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highrollerplays

Wise Guy Insider Play San Francisco 49ers VS. Carolina Panthers
NFL San Francisco 49ers -1 (1:05 Eastern Time)

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Paul Leiner
100* Chargers +8
100* Ucla -6
50* La Salle -4

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River City Sharps
CBB
Utah at Washington St. We really like a nice "bounceback" situation tonight in the Pac-12 as Utah takes on Washington
State. The Utes lost a heartbreaker on Thursday night, dropping a two point decision to Washington. Meanwhile, Washington State is 0-3 already in their Pac 12 campaign as they
dropped a one point game to Colorado, a game where they were an 8.5 point dog. Utah is 8-1
ATS this season and 9-2 ATS off a road loss over the last 2 seasons. The Cougars have really
been struggling on the offensive end, especially in the last five games. They are only averaging
55.6 ppg over the last five while Utah is averaging 83.6 ppg on the year. This game looks like a mismatch and we think the bounceback tonight comes from the Utes as they get a much needed
road win. The Sharps say...
3 UNITS - UTAH (-2.5)

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Al Demarco
15 Dime
SF 49ers

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Steve Fezzik

49ers vs Panthers Props

SF over 1.5 FG
Car over 1.5 FG
no score 1st 6:30
1st Qtr under 7.5
Kaep under 217 passing
Newt under 217 passing

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Sports bank
400 akron

500
San Francisco

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Millionaires club
strong
denver over 54

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big east profit
nfl
carolina panthers +3 (-120)
(7units)
teaser: broncos/sd over 47 ;;; panthers/sf over 34.5 (-120) *7pt tease*
(10units)

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Indian Cowboy's Picks For College Basketball

3-Unit Play. #820. Take Creighton -8 over Xavier (Sunday @ 3pm est).

Indian Cowboy's Picks For NBA Basketball

3-Unit Play. #804. Take Memphis -4.5 over Atlanta (Sunday @ 6:05pm est).

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XpertPicks

Sunday Football

Play Carolina -1 over San Francisco (TOP NFL PLAY)---RISK 25% OF YOUR BANKROLL
1:00 PM EST

Carolina has won 11 of the last 12 games and they have also won 7 consecutive games coming off a road game. Carolina has won 6 consecutive games when playing as a home favorite and they are averaging 25 points a game on offense at home this season


Play San Diego +8.5 over Denver (TOP NFL PLAY)---RISK 25% OF YOUR BANKROLL
4:30 PM EST

San Diego has covered the spread in 4 of the last 5 games and they have also covered the spread in 28 of the last 28 games after having won six or seven of the last eight games. San Diego has covered the spread in 27 of the last 41 road games when the total posted is greater than 45.5 points and they are only allowing an average of 15 points a game on defense over the last three games.

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Ty Gaston
Personal Players Club
NFL 49ers
CBB Wisconsin G Bay
Utah

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Fezzik props
Denver Game:
2*) 3rd Qtr. over 9.5 (-50) or over 10