8-23-14

[Can'tPickAWinner]

::clap::

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Rooster

Houston Texans +7

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jeff Clement

8* Dallas Cowboys +3

Dallas has concerns at defense but cornerback Mo Claiborne is back on the field and rookie Safety Ahmad Dixon out of Baylor has led the team it tackles with his aggressive style of play. Quarterback Tony Romo will probably play at least 1st half as he looked good coming off of back surgery with a 31 yard touchdown pass to Dez Bryant. Expect Demarco Murray to get a lot of playing time and rookie Devon Street has 4 catches for 43 yards so far in this pre-season. Miami will have Ryan Tannehill who has passed for 110 yards and 1 TD in this pre-season get most of the snaps. The Dolphins need to get more production out of the running game so look for them to run the ball a lot against Dallas. Dallas beat Miami last pre-season 24-20 and I expect with Romo playing more in this game that Dallas will score some points. Prediction: DALL 27 MIA 24.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL

WEEK 9

Toronto (3-5) @ Edmonton (6-1)-- Argonauts won last three series games by 16-3-12 points;, as underdogs covered five of last seven in series. Toronto scored 42-36-34 points in last three series tilts. Argos lost three of four road games, losing by 24-1-28 points; they're 2-3 as underdogs, 1-1 on road. Edmonton turned ball eight times (-6) in last three games but is still 6-1, 2-1 at home, 1-1 as home favorites, winning by 4-16, losing to Calgary. In two wins since their bye, Eskimos ran ball for 197-181 yards; Argos gave up 167 in their loss to BC last week. Six of seven Eskimo games, five of last six Toronto games stayed under total.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

UFC Odds and Picks
By: Hugh Citron
Sportingnews

LAS VEGAS -- The second UFC Fight Night card on Saturday comes to us from Tulsa, with a huge lightweight fight between top-ranked Benson "Smooth" Henderson and No. 5 Rafael dos Anjos (10 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1). Henderson, the former champion, is a -300 favorite around Las Vegas, with dos Anjos getting odds of +250 as the underdog.

Henderson (21-3) has been a mainstay at the top of the lightweight division for the last three years, and except for a submission loss to current champion Anthony "Showtime" Pettis back in August 2013, we’d be talking about Benson as maybe the best pound-for-pound fighter in UFC. Henderson has beaten almost all of the great lightweight fighters around today, including Gilbert Melendez, Nate Diaz and who will ever forget those two classics against Frankie Edgar, where he took and then defended the title.

Henderson comes into his fights in superior condition and almost always has a huge size advantage over his opponents. He can make the 155-pound lightweight limit perfectly, which affords him a great advantage once he takes down an opponent. Against Henderson’s size and speed, it's very difficult for an opponent to get back up, and Benson usually wins those rounds.

Since losing his title to Pettis, Henderson has come back with two nice wins, one by a very close split decision over Josh Thomson, and then a submission over tough up-and-comer Rustam Khabilov.

For Henderson, the blueprint is simple: Get by dos Anjos and wait for a title shot, which could come early next year.

For dos Anjos (21-7), this a huge step up in competition. While he has wins over Donald Cerrone and Evan Dunham, he hasn't faced nearly the fighter he’ll be in against Saturday night with so much on the line. Appearing in a main event for the first time often gets to a fighter, nerves can get the best of him and they rarely result in a good performance.

dos Anjos did get a KO win in his last fight, in June against Jason High, and he may need to knock out Henderson here to have any chance. dos Anjos seems to go the distance in a lot of his fights, a trait that doesn’t figure to help him here, as rarely does anyone get the best of Benson Henderson in the late rounds.

For a top-quality fighter like Henderson, this line seems a little low, and I expect it to go up before fight time, maybe as high as -400. While we’re not big fan fans of betting favorites, this is an opportunity to get a fair price on a truly great fighter.

The lean Saturday night is toward Henderson to win and maintain his No. 1 contender status in the lightweight division.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

UFC Odds and Picks
By: Hugh Citron
Sportingnews

LAS VEGAS -- There’s an early-morning UFC Fight Night card this Saturday from Macao, China, headlined by an interesting fight in the middleweight division between eighth-ranked Michael "The Count" Bisping and Cung Le. Coverage begins on Fight Pass at 9 a.m. ET.

Bisping is about a -300 favorite, with Le getting +250 odds on the takeback.

While Bisping (25-6) has won just three of his last six fights, he could still make his way back into the middleweight title picture with a strong showing in this fight. His last bout was a lackluster performance against Tim Kennedy in April, in what should have been a been pretty easy win for "The Count". Kennedy, though, was able to push Bisping into the fence and take him down and control the fight from the top position for an easy unanimous decision. In defense of Bisping, he was coming off an eye injury that kept him out for a year, so a little rust could be to blame for his poor showing.

Throughout his career, Bisping has been able to beat the fighters he should beat and has been a pretty reliable betting favorite. Victories over Alan Belcher, Brian Stann and Jason Miller are just a few of his good wins. The problem for Bisping – as with a lot of guys – is he just can't beat the top fighters he needs to beat in order to put himself in a position for title shots. Losses to Chael Sonnen, Vitor Belfort and Dan Henderson have slowed The Count’s march towards the top of the division, and at 35, time could be running out for him.

Cung Le, now 42, is nearing the end of his career and surely would love to go out with some memorable wins. He’s won his last two fights, including a KO over former champion Rich Franklin in November 2012. But don't give too much weight to that win, as Franklin was a shell of his former self when he fought Le that night.

When Le (9-2)steps into the octagon on Saturday, he will have one thing on his mind: KO Bisping. Le, still one of the best strikers in UFC, probably will have little chance if this fight goes into the later rounds, as stamina has been an issue with him in the past and Bisping is known for superior cardio. Also, it’s hard to imagine how a 21-month layoff can do any good for a fighter already in his 40s.

We’re never big fans of laying favorites, but Bisping is the way to go here, in what should be a very fast-paced, stand-up battle for as long as it lasts.

The undercard

On the undercard, Tyron Woodley is a -170 favorite over Dong Hyun Kim, who gets +150 odds as the underdog.

Woodley (13-3) really needs a win here to get back into the welterweight title picture. He was rolling along until a dull performance against another top contender in Rory MacDonald back in June, when he lost a one-sided unanimous decision.

Kim has won four in a row but doesn't have wins like Woodley has on his resume.

The call here is that Kim’s streak ends on Saturday. Take Woodley as a small favorite.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Davis Soccer

5* Southhampton -117

3* Newcastle PK + 110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Robert Ferringo

1* Titans +3.5

2* Over 44.5 TENN / ATL

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doc Sports

3* Dallas Cowboys +3.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL Betting Recap - Week 8
By Joe Williams

League Betting Notes

-- Favorites went 5-0 straight up in Week 8
-- Favorites went 3-2 ATS in Week 8
-- Road teams posted a 3-2 SU record in Week 8
-- Road teams posted a 3-2 ATS record in Week 8
-- The 'under' went 3-2 in Week 8

Team Betting Notes

-- Toronto (3-5) has won two of the past three games, and they're also 2-1 ATS over the span. The Argonauts have opened up a solid game-and-a-half lead in the East Division. The Argos had a rare two-game week, losing to the BC Lions (5-3) in the second game Sunday, 33-17.

-- The Lions have won three straight games for the first time this season, and they have gone 3-0 ATS during the impressive span. The game went 'under' snapping a two-game 'over' streak. The under is now 6-2 for the Lions this season.

-- Montreal (1-6) slipped up for the fifth consecutive game Saturday againts Saskatchewan (5-2), but they covered the nearly two-touchdown spread in the 16-11 loss against the defending champs.

-- The win for the Roughriders was their fourth straight, but they failed to cover for the first time since July 12. The 'under' has also cashed in four of their past five outings.

-- Calgary (6-1) covered on the road at Hamilton (1-6), maintaining a tie for first place with Edmonton (6-1). The Stamps have covered three of the past four, and seven of their seven this season. The 'under' is also 5-2 for Calgary, as the under hit against the TiCats after two straight overs.

-- The Esks struggled against expansion Ottawa (1-6), winning just 10-8. Edmonton has alternated covers and non-covers in each of the past four games. The constant with the Esks is the 'under' cashing in six of their seven outings.

-- After being in first place two weeks ago, Winnipeg (5-3) has fallen on hard time and dropped back-to-back games. After starting out 3-0 ATS, the Blue Bombers are 2-3 ATS over the past five.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL Betting News and Notes Week 8
By Ian Cameron

Here are my CFL Week 8 News & Notes as I take a look at each team from a betting perspective.

Toronto Argonauts (3-5 SU, 3-5 ATS)

Toronto had a busy Week 8 by playing two games in the span five days. They took advantage of their bye week by trouncing Winnipeg, 38-21, but the tables turned when BC took advantage of eight days off and really wore down the Argos late en route to a 33-17 win. Quarterback Ricky Ray and his new look receiving corps -- due to multiple injuries -- fired on all cylinders against Winnipeg as Ray tossed four touchdowns. But it was a different story against BC’s stout defense with the Argos scoring just a lone touchdown while also coughing up a few turnovers. Toronto can’t be held to too much blame for the BC loss as the schedule really conspired against them but it doesn’t get easier with a daunting road trip to Edmonton (6-1) on deck.

Montreal Alouettes (1-6 SU, 2-5 ATS)

The change to quarterback Alex Brink didn’t result in a win as the Alouettes notched only 11 points in the loss to Saskatchewan but I did spot some positives with Brink under center. He managed to run out of the pocket for a few first downs and was able to move the football effectively between the 20’s. Unfortunately the red zone acted as a mouse trap for the Alouettes throughout the game where drives stalled and/or they turned the football over. A Brandon Whitaker fumble inside the 10-yard line set the tone early and they never recovered. The defense bounced back with their best performance in weeks but it was still not quite good enough. Montreal will be on the road for a second straight week against a rested Winnipeg team that has been off since last Tuesday. It will be interesting to see if an extra week of work can put Brink in a better position to succeed. Note that Winnipeg’s defense gave up an uncharacteristically high 38 points against Toronto last time out.

Ottawa RedBlacks (1-6 SU, 2-5 ATS)

I give Ottawa credit as they competed toe-to-toe with one of the league’s best teams but ultimately couldn’t come up with its second win of the season. Edmonton prevailed 10-8 in a game dominated by defense and missed opportunities on offense. The box score will show that Ottawa quarterback Henry Burris didn’t have a good game with only 18 completions and 8 points but the number of dropped passes by Ottawa’s receivers was staggering. The defense had one of its best games of the season albeit against an Edmonton team that had some key injuries on offense. Ottawa earned a wire-to-wire pointspread cover as touchdowns underdogs at home despite the 10-8 loss. They’re catching +9 this week vs. the 6-1 Calgary Stampeders. The spot is certainly in Ottawa’s favor with a second straight home tilt while Calgary plays its second of back-to-back road games in the Eastern Time Zone. But there is a massive talent gap between the two teams as evidenced when Calgary demolished Ottawa 38-17 at McMahon Stadium two weeks ago.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1-6 SU, 1-5-1 ATS)

Hamilton had yet another chance to win a close game at home against Calgary but a devastating fourth quarter injury to quarterback Dan LeFevour completely changed the complexion of the game. He left and didn’t return and now there is speculation his season may be done with a suspected torn ACL. With Hamilton trailing 23-20 with three minutes left, backup Jeremiah Masoli threw a horrific INT and Calgary later punched in a game clinching touchdown with mere seconds left. That crushed Hamilton bettors (including myself) holding +3, +3.5 or +4 as Calgary went on time win, 30-20. I’m not convinced Masoli is the answer which is a concern moving forward. Hamilton is now 1-6 despite a handful of tough losses by a touchdown or less and enter their bye week needing an answer under center. Zach Collaros is still an unknown as to when he will return and with LeFevour’s season possibly being done it’s either Masoli or their pair of practice roster quarterbacks, Stephen McGee or Jacory Harris. Hamilton’s is likely looking at the trade market with quality and experienced backups like Drew Tate (Calgary) and Kevin Glenn (BC) as potential candidates.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers (5-3 SU, 5-3 ATS)

In my mind there was no doubt Winnipeg was due for regression following a 5-1 start. They have since lost back-to-back games against Saskatchewan and Toronto but certainly have a favorable chance to get back in the winning column against the reeling Montreal Alouettes on Friday. The Blue Bombers defense had its worst game of the season last week allowing 38 points and four touchdown passes to Ricky Ray and the Argos. Winnipeg has a couple of key defensive injuries to contend with but get a much needed boost offensively with the expected return of receiver Nick Moore. Montreal was competitive last week despite the 16-11 loss in Saskatchewan covering the number as double digit road dogs.

Edmonton Eskimos (6-1 SU, 6-1 ATS)
Edmonton was far from sharp in its ugly win over Ottawa but a win is a win and good teams typically find ways to when their A-game isn’t present. The offense was bogged down as quarterback Mike Reilly had by far his worst game of the season and the absences of running back John White and wideout Fred Stamps certainly hindered a lot of their explosiveness. However, the contestant with his team has been their dominating defense which held true to form again as they smothered Ottawa’s offense for the entire 60 minutes. It’s becoming quite clear that if you have a mediocre offense, you are going to have a difficult time scoring in bunches against Edmonton. Edmonton returns home to face the best of the bad lot East Division when they take on Toronto.

Calgary Stampeders (6-1 SU, 5-2 ATS)

The difference between the Stampeders now compared to earlier in the season is the improvement of quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell. Earlier this season, they were winning games in spite of Mitchell but now he is making an impact. His poise in the pocket continues to improve and he has done a very good job keeping Calgary’s offense productive despite cluster injuries at the skill positions. The defense remains strong allowing less than 20 points per game so to see the offense play at a higher level makes this team a very tough one to beat right now. Calgary might finally welcome back running back Jon Cornish this week vs. Ottawa.

Saskatchewan Roughriders (5-2 SU, 4-3 ATS)

The Saskatchewan Roughriders were lethargic for the majority of their lackluster 16-11 win vs. Montreal after big wins over Toronto, Ottawa and Winnipeg. It was a classic letdown as they didn’t sniff a pointspread cover as nearly two touchdown favorites. The defense was solid but the offense never got in any sort of rhythm. Quarterback Darian Durant relies on a solid ground game to help complement the passing attack but the Riders’ top two receivers, Chris Getzlaf and Taj Smith, were blanketed for much of the game. The fact that the Roughriders still won shows how superior the West remains over the East. Saskatchewan will clash with BC (5-3) in a pivotal game within the ultra-competitive West Division.

BC Lions (5-3 SU, 4-3-1 ATS)

One of the favorites to win the Grey Cup before the season started is finally getting their act together. BC notched a third straight win against Toronto on Sunday, 33-17. The Lions defense was tremendous but the offense was mediocre partially because of an odd decision by head coach Mike Benevides to pull Kevin Glenn for two offensive possessions in the second quarter. Travis Lulay, who stepped in for Glenn, was expected to be the starter prior to the season but needed more time to recover from offseason surgery. Now that he is healthy, he has already been given snaps in an actual game. Glenn came back in the game in the third quarter but was never the same and most of BC’s points came via defense and special teams. I would be surprised if Glenn doesn’t start this week but I wonder if the “musical chairs” will hurt the team’s chemistry and rhythm moving forward.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 9
By David Schwab

The West Division continued its dominance over the East this past week in the CFL with a 4-1 straight-up record in a rare five-game inter-division schedule. Toronto had to pull double duty coming off a Week 7 bye starting with last Tuesday’s 38-21 rout of Winnipeg as a three-point home favorite. The total in that game went OVER the 51-point closing line.

Last Friday’s lone game saw Edmonton claw its way to a 10-8 victory over Ottawa as a six-point road favorite. The total came nowhere close to the 49-point line. This past Saturday, Calgary continued to impress with a 30-20 win against Hamilton as a 2½-point road favorite with the total staying UNDER the 53-point closing line. Later in the day, Saskatchewan ran its SU winning streak to four games with a 16-11 victory over Montreal as a hefty 13-point home favorite. That total stayed UNDER as well against a closing betting line of 49½ points.

Toronto was back at it on Sunday as a three-point home underdog and it came up well short against British Columbia in a 33-17 loss that stayed UNDER the 53-point closing line.

Saturday, Aug. 23

Toronto (3-5 SU, 3-5 ATS) at Edmonton (6-1 SU, 4-3 ATS)

Point-spread: Edmonton -7.5
Total: 48

Game Overview

Despite just three SU wins in its first eight games, Toronto is the toast of the East Division with a two-game lead over the other three teams. Ricky Ray continues to play at a high level with 1,984 passing yards and a league-high 12 touchdown throws, but the Argonauts’ defense has not held up its end of the bargain by allowing an average of 26 points a game.

Edmonton has kept pace with Calgary in the West title race behind an offense that has the top receiver in the CFL in slotback Adarius Bowman and the highest scoring kicker in Grant Shaw. Bowman has 532 yards in catches and Shaw has accounted for 76 points with his leg so far. The Eskimos do have some depth concerns up front with offensive linemen Selvish Capers and Justin Sorensen both listed as questionable for this game.

Betting Trends

The will be the first meeting between these two this season, but Toronto brings a SU three-game (2-1 ATS) winning streak against Edmonton into Saturday’s matchup. The total went OVER in all three contests. The total has actually gone OVER in five of the last seven meetings in this series.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL Week 9 Betting Preview and Trends
By Mike Pickett

The Calgary Stampeders lead the CFL betting ranks at 5-2 ATS through the first eight weeks of the season as they head into a game against the Ottawa RedBlacks - who have just two ATS victories in seven games so far in their expansion campaign.

Sat Aug 23 - Toronto at Edmonton

Last 10 Meetings: Edmonton 6-4 SU, 6-4 ATS | OU 6-4

The OVER has paid out for totals bettors in each of the last three games between the Toronto Argonauts and the Edmonton Eskimos as those hit the gridiron together for the first time this season on Saturday afternoon. The Argonauts went 2-0 SU in their two games against the Eskimos last season, with each team picking up at ATS victory for their supporters on the CFL betting lines at the online sportsbooks.

[golden contender]

Saturday its the 24-0 Preseason NFL Game of the Year taking center stage along with 3 more NFL Sides all with systems in the high 90% range long term. There is also a 33-2 MLB Dominator play and a 92% Road warrior system as well as the Analysis on the Travers Stakes Free NFLX Afternoon play below



The free NFLX Afternoon Power system Play is on Tampa Bay. Game 263 at 4:30 eastern. Tampa has covered 3 straight in week 3 of the Preseason, while Buffalo is 0-6 in game fours which is what they are playing since they played in the Hall of Fame Game. This game also has a solid system attached to it. We are playing on road teams that are favored or dogs of less than 3 if they are 0-2, These teams have covered 18 of 22 times. The Bills have struggled with NFC Teams in the Preseason the past few years losing 11 of 12 straight up. So we are not anxious to lay points with them. We will take the points with Tampa Bay here today. Don't miss out on Saturday as the lead play is the NFLX Game of the Year from a Killer 24-0 Preseason system. We also have 3 More Week 3 NFL Winners all from system cashing well over 90% long term. In bases the lead plays are a 33-2 Dominator play and a 92% Road warrior system that wins by 3 runs per game. There is also the analysis on the Travers Stakes from Saratoga. Jump on Now and cash out bog with the finest data available. For the free play take Tampa Bay. GC

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatSystemsSports
Inside The Huddle Saturday

NFL Preseason Betting News And Notes - Week #3
•Graham Fined For Celebratory Dunks: The National Football League fined New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Graham $30,000 for two celebratory dunks after he scored touchdowns in a preseason game against the Tennessee Titans last week. Graham "dunked" the football over the goalpost crossbar twice and received a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty each time. The league banned his trademark celebration during the offseason, a result of one of Graham's dunks knocking the goalpost out of alignment in a November game against Atlanta. Graham defended his celebrations by saying he's not hurting anyone. But he did acknowledge the new rule needs to be followed.

"For four years and however many touchdowns, I always dunked it," Graham told NOLA.com. "I've just got to stop doing that now." While Graham has ignored the league mandate this preseason, his dunks have clearly irritated Saints head coach Sean Payton. "I'm very upset," Payton said after the Tennessee game in which the Saints were penalized 22 times. "Would you be upset? I was, particularly." Despite the fines and upsetting his coach, Graham has not promised to stop dunking. Graham signed a new four-year contract in July after a highly-publicized battle over his designation as a wide receiver or tight end. His new deal guarantees nearly $21 million and could be worth up to $40 million.

•Dolphins Waive TE Egnew: The Miami Dolphins waived tight end Michael Egnew, the 2012 third-round pick out of Missouri who managed just seven catches for 69 yards and no touchdowns during his first two NFL seasons. The Dolphins also cut defensive tackle Micajah Reynolds and waived/injured defensive back Jalil Brown. Egnew, 24, appeared in just two games as a rookie, struggling to pick up the offense and create separation downfield. He managed seven catches last season, but was fighting for a roster spot throughout training camp with Arthur Lynch, Gator Hoskins, Brett Brackett and Evan Wilson, only one of whom is likely to be kept on the depth chart behind Charles Clay and Dion Sims. Egnew is the highest draft pick to be cut loose by the Dolphins since 2009 second-round pick Pat White, the former West Virginia quarterback who failed to make his mark in a "Wildcat" role.

•League Suspends Chiefs Tackle Stephenson: The NFL suspended Kansas City Chiefs starting right tackle Donald Stephenson for the first four games of the 2014 season for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances. The Chiefs were informed of the league's decision on Friday morning. "Obviously losing Donald is disappointing, but we are in full compliance with the league's policy. We will have no further comment on the situation," the team said. Stephenson, 25, has played in every game since being a third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.

He started seven games in both 2012 and 2013. "I'm extremely sorry that I failed to check with the NFL, NFLPA or Chiefs medical team before I took a medication that requires a therapeutic use exemption," Stephenson said via a statement. "The rules are strict and without a therapeutic use exemption, the consequence is a four-game suspension.... It is not a mistake I will ever make again." He is permitted to play in the Chiefs' final two preseason games and will be eligible to return to the active roster on Sept. 30.

•Bell, Blount Play, Then Apologize: Pittsburgh Steelers running backs Le'Veon Bell and LeGarrette Blount apologized Thursday night but said nothing about the charges each faces for marijuana possession. Bell and Blount, who were stopped Wednesday afternoon after a Ross Township police officer smelled marijuana coming from the Camaro that Bell was driving, played extensively in the Steelers' 31-21 loss to the Eagles. They drew crowds at their respective lockers in the cramped visiting quarters at Lincoln Financial Field after the Steelers turned in a performance that coach Mike Tomlin called "unacceptable." "I'm sorry for the distraction that I caused my team," said Blount, who led the Steelers with 32 rushing yards on seven carries. "I just want to apologize to my team and my coach and my organization for causing that distraction."

Asked whether he has told Tomlin and Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert that he won't let it happen again, Blount said, "I'm going to answer some questions about the game tonight. That's about it until further notice." Bell, Blount and a female passenger were stopped Wednesday afternoon and a 20-gram bag of marijuana was found inside Bell's car, Ross Township detective Brian Kohlhepp said. Bell was taken to a hospital for a blood test and also will face a charge for driving under the influence of marijuana, Kohlhepp said. The incident happened less than two hours before the Steelers flew to Philadelphia, and Bell reportedly had to find his own way here.

Tomlin opened himself up to criticism by playing Bell and Blount in the final preseason game in which the regulars see extended duty. The eighth-year coach, however, didn't give serious consideration to not playing Bell and Blount. "I didn't view it as punishment to send them home, to not play in this preseason game," Tomlin said. "I'd rather play them more than anticipated than to remove them from the game, so that's why we took the stance we took tonight. Obviously we've got some things to do regarding the matter moving forward but not a lot to say at this point in time." The NFL is expected to review the incident, and each player is subject to a one- to four-game suspension that likely wouldn't happen until next season.

Bell is entering his second season after breaking Franco Harris' Steelers rookie record for yards from scrimmage with 1,259. The Steelers signed Blount in March to pair with Bell, and the two received all 16 of the Steelers' carries against the Eagles. Bell rushed for 23 yards on nine carries. He later apologized for causing a distraction but declined to answer any questions that didn't pertain to football. The Steelers regressed after beating the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night. They were outgained by almost 200 yards and only a couple of late touchdowns made the final score respectable. Asked whether the arrests of Blount and Bell led to any distractions on the field, Tomlin said, "What happened yesterday had nothing to do with our performance tonight. We're not going to make an excuse for that performance. We're going to own that."

•Former Steelers RB Redman Retires: A serious spinal cord injury has forced former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Isaac Redman to retire. He announced his retirement via Twitter on Friday: "Why I'm not in the NFL? To those who are wondering why I am not playing anymore. Last season, I tried my best to play through a neck injury, but I just wasn't myself on the field." Redman, 29, compiled 1,148 yards and five touchdowns on 282 career carries during his five-year career. Redman attended Division II Bowie State and went undrafted before signing with the Steelers before the 2009 season. The Steelers released Redman after he suffered a concussion in the second game of the regular season.
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#263 TAMPA BAY @ #264 BUFFALO
Line: Bills -3, Total: 41.5

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will finally face an opponent from outside the Sunshine State as they visit Ralph Wilson Stadium in Buffalo New York in preseason action. A week after falling in Jacksonville, the Bucs suffered another setback when Miami arrived in central Florida to hand Lovie Smith's club a 20-14 defeat. Tampa Bay starting quarterback Josh McCown tossed for 46 yards on 5-of-7 passing and a score against the Dolphins while third-stringer Mike Kafka also added a touchdown pass late in the contest.

Backup Mike Glennon looked like he had connected with rookie first-round pick Mike Evans on a 42-yard touchdown strike. The play was reviewed, however, with video evidence showing Evans fumbling the ball at the 1-yard line and it went out of bounds in the end zone for a touchback. The Bucs made a minor move off the field this week trading safety Kelcie McCray to Kansas City in exchange for offensive guard Rishaw Johnson, who lost out to rookie Zach Fulton for the Chiefs' right guard spot. In Tampa Johnson is expected to compete with Oniel Cousins at left guard as the team tries to replace the now retired Carl Nicks.

The Bills continued their extended preseason last week by losing a tough one in Pittsburgh after Shaun Suisham's 20-yard field goal as time expired lifted the Steelers to a 19-16 win. E.J. Manuel finished 17-of-27 for 148 yards and one interception for the Bills. Anthony Dixon rushed 10 times for 26 yards and Buffalo's lone TD, a one-yard run in the third quarter. Fred Jackson led the club with seven grabs for 28 yards. Dan Carpenter connected on a pair of field goals, including a 44-yard try which knotted the score with 1:56 left in regulation. Rookie wideout Sammy Watkins left the game with bruised ribs on his club's opening possession and did not return. Watkins was back in pads and participating in practice by Tuesday but the Bills are expected to be very cautious with the potential star.

•KEY STAT: TAMPA BAY is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in road games against AFC East division opponents since 1993.
The average score was TAMPA BAY 19.8, OPPONENT 15.7.

--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 12 times, while the underdog covered the spread 7 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 16 times, while the underdog won straight up 5 times. 6 games went over the total, while 6 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 23 times, while the favorite covered first half line 22 times. *No EDGE. 11 games went under first half total, while 8 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Road teams where the first half total is between 18 and 21 (TAMPA BAY) - after scoring 14 points or less in 2 straight games against opponent off an extremely close road loss by 3 points or less, with a losing record.
(48-19 over the last 5 seasons.) (71.6%, +27.1 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 19.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 10.3, Opponent 12.5 (Total first half points scored = 22.9)

The situation's record this season is: (2-2).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (25-8).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (85-48).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (188-117).
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#265 DALLAS @ #266 MIAMI
Line: Dolphins -3.5, Total: 46.5

The Miami Dolphins will kick off their home slate for 2014 when they face the Dallas Cowboys (7:00 PM EST) on Saturday evening in Week #3 of preseason action. The Dolphins have already split a pair of exhibition games on the road, rebounding from a loss in Atlanta to top Tampa Bay, 20-14, behind backup quarterback Matt Moore, who finished 13-of-19 passing for 158 yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers.

Damien Williams rushed for 20 yards on 11 carries with a touchdown and hauled in three passes for a team-high 46 yards. Rishard Matthews finished with three receptions for 43 yards and a score in the victory. Starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill went 9-of-14 for 110 yards in limited action.

The Cowboys, meanwhile, fell to 0-2 in the preseason after falling to Baltimore in a shootout, 37-30. Tony Romo played two series in his preseason debut after offseason back surgery. He was 4-of-5 for 80 yards and tossed a 31-yard TD pass to Dez Bryant, who caught three passes for 59 yards. DeMarco Murray ran for 34 yards on eight carries in defeat. Dallas got some more bad news during the week when it was revealed that second-year linebacker DeVonte Holloman has been advised by doctors to give up football due to a neck injury suffered against the Ravens.

Holloman battled neck issues last year, missing six games because of the problem, and had struggled with the injury again during this preseason. "DeVonte got information back from the doctors he visited with regarding his neck and it doesn't look like he's going to be able to play football anymore," Garrett said during a media briefing Thursday. "It's in relation to the injury he had last year. I think he had a similar injury this year. They are related."

The last time the two teams faced each other in the preseason, the Cowboys defeated the Dolphins, 24-20, in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game in 2013. Overall Dallas holds a 6-2 preseason series advantage against the Dolphins.

•KEY STATS: DALLAS is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) after playing a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was DALLAS 16.7, OPPONENT 23.2.

--MIAMI is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was MIAMI 14.8, OPPONENT 20.9,

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 21 times, while the favorite covered the spread 17 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 24 times, while the underdog won straight up 16 times. 0 games went over the total, while 0 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 40 times, while the underdog covered first half line 40 times. *No EDGE. 0 games went over first half total, while 0 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Any team versus the 1rst half total (DALLAS) - off a non-conference game, after playing a game at home against opponent after playing their last game on the road.
(24-4 over the last 5 seasons.) (85.7%, +19.6 units. Rating = 3*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 19.1
The average first half score in these games was: Team 11.8, Opponent 13 (Total first half points scored = 24.8)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (11-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (40-18).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (78-39).
_________________________________________________

#267 TENNESSEE @ #268 ATLANTA
Line: Falcons -3, Total: 44

The Atlanta Falcons will play host to the Tennessee Titans at the Georgia Dome in the all-important third preseason contest for both clubs. Each team has split its first two exhibition contests with both winning their openers before coming back down to earth last week. Atlanta, however, lost far more than a game in its last encounter. Falcons starting left tackle Sam Baker went down for the season during a 32-7 drubbing at the hands of the Houston Texans with a torn patellar tendon in his knee.

"Following his injury in the game, Sam underwent a number of tests and it was determined that he had suffered a torn patellar tendon and will miss the rest of the season," said Falcons coach Mike Smith. "Sam had worked extremely hard to get back on the field after missing most of last season, and he was having a good camp. I know he is disappointed, but I also know he is a very resilient football player and will do whatever he can to bounce back."

The Falcons had planned on starting first-round pick Jake Matthews at right tackle, but now the No. 6 overall pick will flip to the left side to replace Baker and Lamar Holmes will slide into the right tackle spot. Sean Renfree took over for Atlanta starting quarterback Matt Ryan, who went just 3-of-7 for 37 yards, midway through the second quarter and connected with Devin Hester for a 12-yard touchdown to account for the Falcons' only score. Renfree finished 7-for-10 for 49 yards while T.J. Yates, an ex-Texan, was in a giving mood against his former teammates, completing just 4-of-11 passes and throwing two interceptions.

The Titans, meanwhile, fell in New Orleans last week when Jimmy Graham caught a pair of touchdown passes from Luke McCown as the Saints defeated Tennessee 31-24. Jake Locker completed 8-of-11 passes for 75 yards and a touchdown and Justin Hunter caught four balls for 111 yards and a pair of scores for the Titans. Shonn Greene gained 46 yards on nine attempts and second-round rookie Bishop Sankey accumulated 31 yards on the ground on six totes in defeat.

These two teams have split eight previous preseason matchups with Tennessee winning the last contest, 27- 16, at LP Field in Nashville last season.

•KEY STATS: TENNESSEE is 14-1 OVER (+12.9 Units) in road games after 1 or more consecutive straight up losses since 1993.
The average score was TENNESSEE 23.4, OPPONENT 23.6.

--ATLANTA is 13-2 ATS (+10.8 Units) after a loss by 14 or more points since 1993.
The average score was ATLANTA 20.5, OPPONENT 14.7.

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 18 times, while the favorite covered the spread 5 times. *EDGE against the spread =TENNESSEE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 13 times, while the underdog won straight up 12 times. 3 games went over the total, while 3 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 34 times, while the favorite covered first half line 26 times. *No EDGE. 7 games went over first half total, while 1 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Any team against the total (ATLANTA) - off a non-conference game, after scoring 9 points or less last game against opponent after a playing a game where 50 total points or more were scored.
(86-43 over the last 5 seasons.) (66.7%, +38.7 units. Rating = 3*)

The average total posted in these games was: 38.2
The average score in these games was: Team 20.6, Opponent 22.1 (Total points scored = 42.7)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 59 (46.1% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (8-4).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (50-17).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (172-119).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (376-313).
________________________________________

#269 WASHINGTON @ #270 BALTIMORE
Line: Ravens -2.5, Total: 44

After opening the 2014 preseason with consecutive home wins at FedExField, the Washington Redskins will make the short trip up I-95 to take on the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. On Monday, the Redskins improved to 2-0 in dramatic fashion, defeating the Cleveland Browns, 24-23. With the game deadlocked at 17, the teams traded touchdowns in the final few minutes, beginning with Colt McCoy's 30-yard touchdown strike to receiver Nick Williams with just over two minutes remaining.

The Browns responded with a 45-yard, Hail Mary touchdown pass from Connor Shaw to Emmanuel Ogbuehi with no time remaining before the Redskins successfully defended a two-point conversion attempt to seal the victory. Robert Griffin III started for the 'Skins and finished 6-for-8 for 112 yards with an interception and a lost fumble. Kirk Cousins led the Redskins on a pair of scoring drives during his time under center, going 12-for-21 with 145 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

The Ravens also improved to 2-0 in practice games last week when Joe Flacco connected on 9-of-17 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown as Baltimore defeated the Dallas Cowboys 37-30. Flacco, who began the game just 1-of-7 and played the entire first half, didn't see his first snap until the 3:25 mark of the opening frame as Baltimore put up two non-offensive touchdowns. Courtney Upshaw returned a fumble 26 yards for a touchdown and Deonte Thompson took a kickoff 108 yards for a score. Torrey Smith hauled in a 19-yard TD reception from Flacco, Bernard Pierce carried the ball seven times for 55 yards and Ray Rice had just two totes for 21 yards in the triumph.

Saturday's preseason game between the two clubs will be the eighth in the series with Baltimore holding a 5-2 advantage. The Redskins have never won a preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium.

•KEY STATS: WASHINGTON is 7-0 against the 1rst half line (+7.0 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
The average score was WASHINGTON 13.1, OPPONENT 5.7.

--WASHINGTON is 16-4 UNDER (+11.6 Units) the 1rst half total after allowing 3 points or less in the first half last game since 1993.
The average score was WASHINGTON 7.3, OPPONENT 8.5.

--BALTIMORE is 8-0 against the 1rst half line (+8.0 Units) after allowing 6 or more yards/play in their previous game since 1993.
The average score was BALTIMORE 10.9, OPPONENT 4.0.

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 10 times, while the favorite covered the spread 4 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the underdog won the game straight up 8 times, while the favorite won the game straight up 6 times. 3 games went over the total, while 2 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 16 times, while the underdog covered first half line 16 times. *No EDGE. 5 games went over first half total, while 1 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play On - All teams where the line is +3 to -3 (WASHINGTON) - after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread against opponent after 2 or more consecutive wins against the spread.
(29-10 over the last 10 seasons.) (74.4%, +18.4 units. Rating = 2*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is : (27-14 over the last 10 seasons.)
The average line posted in these games was: Team favored by 0
The average score in these games was: Team 21.2, Opponent 17.1 (Average point differential = +4.1)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 13 (33.3% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (6-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (13-3).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (50-31).
______________________________________

#271 NEW ORLEANS @ #272 INDIANAPOLIS
Line: Colts -2.5, Total: 47.5

New Orleans star quarterback Drew Brees, who has passed for over 5,000 yards in each of the past three seasons, expects to make his 2014 preseason debut (8:00 PM EST) this Saturday when the Saints visit Indianapolis. New Orleans has done just fine without its star in the team's first two exhibition games, compiling a 2-0 mark thus far including last week's 31-24 win over Tennessee in the Superdome. Jimmy Graham caught a pair of touchdown passes from Luke McCown in that one but was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct following both scores after performing his signature dunk over the goalpost, something the NFL banned in the offseason.

"Yes, I was (upset)," Saints coach Sean Payton told reporters after the game when asked about Graham's flouting of the new rule. "I'm very upset. "It is the first sign of a team that has no discipline and the first sign of poor coaching.... The first sign along with the quarterback-center exchange." Graham, who tallied five receptions for 48 yards, is now planning to move on from his trademarked celebration. "For four years and however many touchdowns I always dunked it," Graham told the New Orleans Time-Picayune. "I just got to stop doing that now. That's just the rule, which is unfortunate because I just love the game. I have a lot of passion for the game. I go out there on Sunday and it's fun for me. It's just fun. Act like a little kid out there, and sometimes I act like it."

McCown finished 12-of-20 for 117 yards for New Orleans against the Titans while Mark Ingram carried the ball five times for 19 yards and added a 23-yard TD reception in the triumph. Brees, who has been struggling with an oblique strain, is looking forward to shaking off some of the rust. "As you approach that third preseason game this is really kind of the final dress rehearsal for the season so this is when the season becomes very imminent," the veteran said.

The Colts, meanwhile, are 0-2 in the preseason but their star signal caller, Andrew Luck, looked sharp in last week's loss against the New York Giants, completing 12-of-18 passes for 89 yards with one touchdown as he led three scoring drives on the night. Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, the ex-Giant who joined the Colts this offseason, had five catches for 53 yards against his former team which engineered a ferocious fourth-quarter comeback to earn a 27-26 victory. The Giants put up 27 unanswered points in the final 10 1/2 minutes to erase a 26-0 deficit. "Nicks and Andrew were in a rhythm," said Colts head coach Chuck Pagano. "Obviously, we figured Hakeem would play inspired football against a really good football team."

•KEY STATS: NEW ORLEANS is 20-6 ATS (+13.4 Units) in road games after playing a non-conference game since 1993.
The average score was NEW ORLEANS 21.7, OPPONENT 17.5.

--NEW ORLEANS is 2-14 against the 1rst half line (-13.4 Units) after allowing 6.5 or more yards/play in their previous game since 1993.
The average score was NEW ORLEANS 6.4, OPPONENT 12.4.

--INDIANAPOLIS is 13-3 OVER (+9.7 Units) after gaining 4 or less yards/play in their previous game since 1993.
The average score was INDIANAPOLIS 23.0, OPPONENT 20.5.

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 19 times, while the favorite covered the spread 9 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 15 times, while the underdog won straight up 13 times. 0 games went over the total, while 0 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 40 times, while the favorite covered first half line 25 times. *No EDGE. 0 games went over first half total, while 0 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Home teams against the total (INDIANAPOLIS) - off a non-conference game, after a game where they committed 1 or less turnovers against opponent after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better.
(38-15 over the last 10 seasons.) (71.7%, +21.5 units. Rating = 2*)

The average total posted in these games was: 37.4
The average score in these games was: Team 22.9, Opponent 20.6 (Total points scored = 43.5)
The number of games in which this system covered the total by 7 or more points was 24 (46.2% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (1-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (9-4).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (20-7).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (67-48).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

#273 MINNESOTA @ #274 KANSAS CITY
Line: Chiefs -3.5, Total: 45

It's dress rehearsal time in the Midwest as the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for their all-important third preseason contest (8:00 PM EST) on Saturday against Mike Zimmer's Minnesota Vikings. The Chiefs return home after a road contest in Carolina last week where the club fell 28-16 to the Panthers. Despite the loss, the Chiefs defense opened the game with three consecutive three-and-outs and sacked Panthers quarterback Cam Newton twice.

Kansas City rookie signal caller Aaron Murray threw his first career NFL touchdown with a 43-yard toss to Travis Kelce, while embattled receiver Dwayne Bowe caught five passes for 62 yards on the night. Bowe was suspended by the National Football League for the season opener last week after violating the league's substance-abuse policy, a penalty stemming from an arrest back in November of last year for speeding and marijuana possession.

The Vikings' preseason has been all about finding a starting signal caller and both veteran Matt Cassel and rookie Teddy Bridgewater have performed well. Another solid performance in Kansas City will likely sew up the job for Cassel but "Two-Minute Teddy" was born against Arizona last week. Bridgewater threw two touchdown passes, including one with 18 seconds remaining which lifted Minnesota to an exciting 30-28 preseason victory over Arizona in Minneapolis.

Cassel started under center and completed 12-of-16 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown, while the rookie first-round draft pick finished 16-for-20 for 177 and two scores in relief. The Cardinals were leading 28-24 with 1:07 left when Bridgewater and the Vikings offense got the ball back on their own 17-yard line. Bridgewater found Rodney Smith for short gains of 10 and six yards and following a 12-yard completion to Jarius Wright, went back to Smith for 37 yards down the left sideline to the Arizona 18.

Four plays later, Bridgewater hooked up with Smith for a 2-yard, go-ahead score. Joe Banyard carried six times for 64 yards for Minnesota, while tight end Kyle Rudolph caught four passes for 89 yards and a touchdown. The biggest moment in Chiefs and perhaps all of Kansas City sports history came on Jan. 11, 1970 when the Chiefs defeated the Vikings 23-7 in Super Bowl IV. In the preseason series Minnesota holds a slim 8-7 advantage.

•KEY STATS:KANSAS CITY is 22-41 ATS (-23.1 Units) in non-conference games since 1993.
The average score was KANSAS CITY 16.4, OPPONENT 19.1.

--KANSAS CITY is 15-34 ATS (-22.4 Units) after 1 or more consecutive losses against the spread since 1993.
The average score was KANSAS CITY 16.0, OPPONENT 19.5.

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 15 times, while the favorite covered the spread 10 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 17 times, while the underdog won straight up 10 times. 3 games went under the total, while 1 games went over the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 32 times, while the underdog covered first half line 30 times. *No EDGE. 2 games went over first half total, while 0 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play On - Underdogs of 3.5 to 10 points (MINNESOTA) - in non-conference games, after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins, top level team, winning 75% or more of their games in the preseason.
(52-17 since 1993.) (75.4%, +33.3 units. Rating = 4*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is : (31-38)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 5
The average score in these games was: Team 18.9, Opponent 19.8 (Average point differential = -0.9)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 24 (34.3% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (4-1).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (6-2).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (19-5).
________________________________________________

#275 ST LOUIS @ #276 CLEVELAND
Line: Browns -2.5, Total: 43

With "the decision" finally made, the Cleveland Browns will get back to work in preparation for Week #1 of the NFL season when they host the St. Louis Rams in preseason action. Brian Hoyer was named the Browns' starting quarterback to begin the season on Wednesday, winning the job over high-profile rookie Johnny Manziel. "We've maintained all along that if it was close, I would prefer to go with the more experienced player," said first-year coach Mike Pettine. "Brian has done a great job in the meeting rooms and with his teammates on the practice field and in the locker room."

Hoyer started each of the Browns' first two preseason games. He completed 6- of-14 passes for 92 yards in the opener against Detroit and was just 2-of-6 for 16 yards this past Monday in a 24-23 setback against Washington. Manziel, selected with the 22nd overall pick in May's draft, threw for 63 yards on 7-of-11 passing in the first preseason game against the Lions. He was 7-of-16 for 65 yards with a touchdown on Monday, but was also sacked three times. "It's obviously disappointing," said Manziel after practice Wednesday. "I didn't play terrible (in the first two preseason games), but I made strides."

If I would have done better in the last two weeks, it would have been different outcome. I'm going to continue to give it my all every day." The 21-year-old Manziel hasn't shown much maturity and his latest escapade resulted in a $12,000 fine for giving the Washington bench the middle finger during Monday's preseason game. "I get words exchanged throughout the entirety of the game, every game, week after week, and I should've been smarter," Manziel said. "It was a 'Monday Night Football' game and cameras were probably solid on me, and I just need to be smarter about that.... It's there, and it's present every game, and I just need to let it slide off my back and go to the next play."

The Rams are still looking for their first exhibition victory after falling to Green Bay last week, 21-7. Sam Bradford, playing for the first time since tearing his ACL last October, completed 9-of-12 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown, including a 41-yard strike to Brian Quick. Rookie defensive end Michael Sam, who was the first openly-gay player drafted in the NFL, didn't see any action until the second half for St. Louis but did finish with two tackles and a sack. Worse than the loss for the Rams, however, was the fact that the team lost running back Isaiah Pead, who will miss the season after tearing the ACL in his left knee while running back a kickoff in the first quarter.

This contest will be the 29th preseason meeting between the Rams and Browns with St. Louis holding a slim 14-13-1 advantage in the series.

•KEY STATS: ST LOUIS is 10-1 OVER (+8.9 Units) the 1rst half total against AFC North division opponents since 1993.
The average score was ST LOUIS 12.9, OPPONENT 10.4.

--CLEVELAND is 7-0 UNDER (+7.0 Units) in home games after allowing 6 or more yards/play in their previous game since 1993.
The average score was CLEVELAND 13.9, OPPONENT 11.9.

--CLEVELAND is 11-1 OVER (+9.9 Units) the 1rst half total after scoring 3 points or less in the first half last game since 1993.
The average score was CLEVELAND 13.3, OPPONENT 11.0.

--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 19 times, while the favorite covered the spread 14 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 20 times, while the underdog won straight up 15 times. 4 games went under the total, while 3 games went over the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 42 times, while the favorite covered first half line 28 times. *No EDGE. 7 games went over first half total, while 6 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Any team versus the 1rst half total (ST LOUIS) - after scoring 14 points or less last game against opponent after scoring 3 points or less in the first half last game.
(106-45 since 1993.) (70.2%, +56.5 units. Rating = 4*)

The average first half total posted in these games was: 18.2
The average first half score in these games was: Team 11.5, Opponent 10.6 (Total first half points scored = 22.1)

The situation's record this season is: (1-1).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (8-2).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (20-4).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (40-21).
_________________________________________________

#277 HOUSTON @ #278 DENVER
Line: Broncos -7, Total: 46

The Houston Texans and reigning American Football Conference champion Denver Broncos will cap off a week of joint-practice sessions by squaring off at Sports Authority Field at Mile High in Week #3 of preseason action. The two teams engaged in practice sessions at the Broncos' facility on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday while kickoff is (9:00 PM EST) on Saturday evening.

Joint sessions with the Atlanta Falcons last week paid dividends for the Texans, who bounced back from a rough preseason-opening loss at Arizona with a 32-7 win against Matt Ryan and Co. last Saturday at NRG Stadium. Ryan Fitzpatrick went 9-of-12 passing for 97 yards and a touchdown pass while Jonathan Grimes led Houston's rushers with 42 yards off nine carries. The Texans scored touchdowns on offense, defense and special teams for the first time ever in a preseason game and tallied the franchise's highest preseason point total in six years.

Denver, meanwhile, is coming off an equally impressive win last Sunday at San Francisco. The defending AFC kingpins spoiled the 49ers debut at Levi's Stadium with a 34-0 thumping. Reigning MVP Peyton Manning headlined an impressive performance from Denver's signal callers as he completed 12-of-14 passes for 102 yards and a touchdown. The five-time MVP is now 22-of-27 for 180 yards in two preseason games.

Manning's backup, Brock Osweiler, was also superlative, finishing 10-of-13 for 105 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown pass to rookie receiver Cody Latimer, Denver's second-round draft pick. Third-stringer Zac Dysert finished 8-for-11 for 63 yards with a 16-yard touchdown pass to Cameron Morrah in the fourth quarter.

The Texans have played the Broncos more times in the preseason and regular season than any other non-division team, squaring off 10 times since 2003.

•KEY STATS: DENVER is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in home games after allowing 14 points or less last game since 1993.
The average score was DENVER 21.4, OPPONENT 21.1.

--DENVER is 12-2 UNDER (+9.8 Units) after allowing 4 or less yards/play in their previous game since 1993.
The average score was DENVER 18.2, OPPONENT 15.6.

--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 10 times, while the underdog covered the spread 8 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 15 times, while the underdog won straight up 3 times. 1 games went over the total, while 0 games went under the total. *No EDGE.

--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 15 times, while the underdog covered first half line 13 times. *No EDGE. 1 games went under first half total, while 0 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.

•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Against - Home favorites of 3.5 to 10 points (DENVER) - in conference games, after leading in their previous game by 14 or more points at the half against opponent after allowing 14 points or less last game.
(34-8 since 1993.) (81.0%, +25.2 units. Rating = 4*)

The straight up record of the team this system pertains to is : (25-17)
The average line posted in these games was: Opponent favored by 2.4
The average score in these games was: Team 22.7, Opponent 19 (Average point differential = +3.7)
The number of games in which this system covered the spread by 7 or more points was 15 (36.6% of all games.)

The situation's record this season is: (1-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (6-0).
Over the last 5 seasons the situation's record is: (11-1).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (19-3).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFLX

Dress-Rehearsal
The third full week of NFL preseason football continues Thursday with one on tap followed by five on Friday with ten going Saturday through Sunday. Preseason results don’t count for anything in the end, but any NFL head coach would be concerned if his team went winless during the preseason.

That said, the six winless teams at this juncture should play with a lot more urgency during dress-rehearsal week. NFLx sports bettors thinking of siding with these winless teams in WK-3 do so at some risk as they're a vig losing 17-17 ATS the past five years split between 10-12 ATS wearing a home jersey, 7-5 ATS on the road.

NFLx sports bettors thinking of siding with the undefeated need to be cautious with home teams as they're 2-7 ATS while roadies are a profitable 14-8 ATS.

In looking at how squads have done overall in what is the closest thing to a regular season game teams play in August. The Saints (7-0), Seahawks (10-2-1), 49ers (6-1), Eagles (7-2) have been some of the best bets recently while Patriots (0-6), Chiefs (2-9-1), Dolphins (2-7-1) have some of the worst stretches vs the betting line.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

National League

Cardinals-Phillies
Miller is 0-1, 5.00 in his last three starts.
Buchanon is 2-4, 3.89 in his last six starts.

Cardinals won seven of their last nine games.
Phillies won three of their last four games.

Last six Cardinal games went over the total.

Giants-Nationals
Lincecum is 1-3, 7.67 in his last six starts.
Zimmerman is 2-0, 2.41 in his last five starts.

Giants won five of their last six games.
Nationals won 11 of their last 12 games.

Over is 8-2-2 in last twelve Washington home games.

Braves-Reds
Santana is 6-0, 3.18 in his last seven starts.
Leake is 0-2, 5.21 in his last three starts.

Braves won seven of their last eight games.
Reds lost seven in row, 10 of last 11 games.

Over is 7-2-1 in last ten Cincinnati games

Pirates-Brewers
Volquez is 2-0, 2.79 in his last three starts.
Peralta is 6-1, 1.99 in his last seven starts.

Pirates lost seven of their last nine games.
Brewers won five of their last seven games.

Over is 5-1-1 in last seven Pittsburgh games.

Marlins-Rockies
Koehler is 3-2, 3.79 in his last six starts.
Lyles is 1-1, 6.49 in his last seven starts.

Marlins won nine of their last thirteen games.
Colorado won three of its last four games.

Six of last eight Colorado games went over total.

Padres-Diamondbacks
Cashner was 0-1, 2.08 in his last four starts before going on DL.
Arizona is 0-8 when Nuno starts (0-3, 4.11).

Padres lost four of their last five games.
Arizona lost six of its last seven games.

Last three games for both San Diego/Arizona stayed under.

Mets-Dodgers
deGrom was 5-0, 1.55 in his last six starts before going on DL.
Greinke is 0-2, 4.50 in his last three starts.

Mets lost seven of their last ten games.
Dodgers won three of their last four games.

Over is 7-1-1 in Mets' last nine road games.


American League

Astros-Indians
McHugh is 3-0, 1.42 in his last four starts.
Salazar is 0-2, 7.00 in his last couple starts.

Astros won four of their last five games.
Cleveland won seven of its last eleven games, but lost last two.

10 of last 11 Cleveland games stayed under total.

White Sox-Bronx
Carroll is 1-2, 6.91 in his last five starts.
Kuroda is 1-2, 3.91 in his last four starts.

White Sox lost five of their last six games.
Bronx lost seven of its last eleven games, but won last two.

Five of last six Chicago road games stayed under.

Rays-Blue Jays
Hellickson is 1-1, 2.00 in his last three starts.
Buehrle is 0-1, 8.53 in his last three starts.

Rays lost four of their last six games.
Toronto lost seven of its last nine games.

Under is 9-2-2 in last thirteen Tampa Bay games.

Mariners-Red Sox
Young is 4-0, 2.45 in his last five starts.
Workman is 0-6, 6.62 in his last six starts.

Mariners won 12 of their last 16 games.
Boston lost its last six games, scoring 12 runs.

Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Workman starts.

Royals-Rangers
Guthrie is 4-1, 4.73 in his last five starts.
Rangers won last three Tepesch starts (1-0, 1.83).

Royals won 18 of their last 22 games.
Texas lost six of its last eight games.

Over is 5-2-1 in last eight Royal games.

Tigers-Twins
Farmer allowed four runs in five IP in his first MLB start. Verlander is 1-3, 4.70 in his last four starts.
May is 0-2, 9.45 in two MLB starts. Pino is 0-3, 6.06 in his last five starts.

Detroit lost 12 of its last 16 road games.
Minnesota lost four of its last six games.

Five of last six Verlander starts stayed under total.

Angels-A's
Wilson is 2-0, 2.25 in his last two starts.
Lester is 3-1, 3.25 in four starts for the A's.

Angels won eight of their last ten games.
Oakland lost eight of its last eleven games.

Seven of last nine Angel games stayed under.


Interleague games

Orioles-Cubs
Norris is 3-0, 2.59 in his last four starts.
Hendricks is 4-0, 1.53 in his last four starts.

Baltimore won 12 of its last 17 games.
Cubs won four of their last six games.

Six of last seven Baltimore games stayed under.

Teams' record when this starting pitcher starts:
-- Lincecum 15-10; Zimmerman 16-9
-- Miller 10-14; Buchanan 6-7
-- Volquez 14-10; Peralta 16-9
-- Santana 14-10; Leake 10-16
-- Koehler 12-13; Lyles 8-7
-- Cashner 6-6; Nuno 0-8
-- deGrom 7-9; Greinke 13-12

-- Hellickson 3-3; Buehrle 17-8
-- Carroll 5-9; Kuroda 11-14
-- Farmer 1-0, Verlander 13-11; Pino 5-5, May 0-2
-- Young 15-8; Workman 2-8
-- McHugh 8-11; Salazar 6-7
-- Guthrie 14-11; Tepesch 7-8 (won last 3)
-- Wilson 12-11; Lester 13-8/3-1

-- Norris 13-8; Hendricks 6-1

Pitchers allowing runs in first inning:
-- Lincecum 9-25; Zimmerman 1-25
-- Miller 5-24; Buchanan 2-13
-- Volquez 7-24; Peralta 4-25
-- Santana 7-24; Leake 7-26
-- Koehler 4-25; Lyles 5-15
-- Cashner 3-12; Nuno 1-8
-- deGrom 2-16; Greinke 6-25

-- Hellickson 1-6; Buehrle 6-25
-- Carroll 6-14 (3 of last 3); Kuroda 11-25 (5 of last 5)
-- Farmer 0-1, Verlander 8-24; Pino 0-10, May 1-2
-- Young 2-23; Workman 7-10
-- McHugh 9-19; Salazar 1-13
-- Guthrie 10-25 (5 of last 7); Tepesch 3-15
-- Wilson 5-23; Lester 6-25

-- Norris 7-21; Hendricks 3-7

Umpires
-- SF-Wsh-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six Emmel games.
-- StL-Phil-- 14 of last 17 O'Nora games stayed under.
-- Pitt-Mil-- 11 of last 16 GGibson games went over.
-- Atl-Cin-- 12 of last 17 Diaz games went over total.
-- Mia-Col-- Seven of last ten Timmons games went over.
-- SD-Az-- Under is 9-6 in last fifteen Foster games.
-- NY-LA-- Underdogs are 14-9 in last 23 Bucknor games.

-- TB-Tor-- Five of last seven Tumpane games stayed under.
-- Chi-NY-- Over is 11-5-1 in Woodring games this season.
-- Det-Min-- Seven of last nine HGibson games stayed under. Under is 6-1-1 in last eight Guccione games.
-- Sea-Bos-- Under is 3-1-1 in last five Hernandez games.
-- Hst-Clev-- Last six Ripperger games stayed under total.
-- KC-Tex-- Under is 12-2-1 in last fifteen Wendelstedt games.
-- LA-A's-- Three of last four Fairchild games went over total.

-- Balt-Chi-- Seven of last eight Segal games went over total.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mariners keep collecting W's behind this pitcher
Stephen Campbell

The Seattle Mariners are playing some great baseball as of late, especially behind starting pitcher Chris Young. In the 35-year-old's last five starts, the M's are a perfect 5-0.

He'll get the ball when Seattle takes on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park Saturday. The Mariners are currently -110 faves with a total of 8.5.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

This club is cashing in for Under bettors
Stephen Campbell

If you've been backing the Under in Tampa Bay Rays games recently, you've been collecting some nice profits. Through Friday, the Under is 5-1-1 in Tampa Bay's last seven games.

The Rays face off against the Toronto Blue Jays north of the border Saturday.
Sportsbooks presently list the Jays as -115 faves on the moneyline with an O/U of 8.5 for the AL East matchup.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB betting cheat sheet: Diamondbacks limp home

Here's a comprehensive look at betting notes for the weekend's major-league action:

Unders Galore

Thursday was the most profitable Under day of the season, with teams combining to go 0-8-1 O/U. Only two teams - Atlanta and San Francisco - scored more than four runs, while the Braves, New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels and Washington Nationals all recorded shutouts.

Diamondbacks Limp Home

The Arizona Diamondbacks (-121, 8.5) return home Friday for their series-opening tilt with the San Diego Padres. The Diamondbacks went 2-8 on their 10-game road trip through Cleveland, Miami and Washington, scoring just 21 runs on the entire trip en route to a 4-6 O/U mark.

Lester's Home-Field Advantage

Jon Lester should have a decided upper hand Saturday as he and the Oakland Athletics face fellow lefty C.J. Wilson and the visiting Angels. Lester is 7-4 with a 1.88 ERA and a 3-10 O/U mark in home starts this season, while Wilson is 3-6 with a 5.22 ERA on the road.

Sale Owns Yankees

Best of luck to the Bronx Bombers on Sunday, as they tangle with Chris Sale and the Chicago White Sox. Sale is 3-0 with a 0.85 ERA and 40 strikeouts in 31 2/3 career innings versus the Yankees, and tossed six innings of one-hit, 10-strikeout ball against them earlier this season.

Pitching Notes

* Jordan Lyles has an impressive string on the line Saturday as he leads the host Colorado Rockies into a showdown with the Miami Marlins. Lyles has racked up five consecutive overs - going 1-0 with four no-decisions over that span - and is 11-4 O/U for the year.

* Stephen Strasburg has had plenty of success against San Francisco as he and the Washington Nationals entertain the Giants on Sunday. Strasburg is 3-0 with a 1.80 ERA in four career starts versus the Giants, including an impressive win as a -127 favorite back in June.

Hitting Notes

* The Mariners may have some trouble containing David Ortiz. The Boston Red Sox slugger has been red-hot over the past seven days, going 12-for-21 with four home runs and eight RBIs - and he's the only one hitting well for Boston, which has dropped five straight.

* It could be a long Saturday for Rays outfielder David DeJesus. He's hitting just .179 with two doubles and a homer in 78 career at-bats versus Toronto Blue Jays left-hander Mark Buehrle, who gets the call in the second game of the series.

* John Jaso will look to end his struggles versus Jered Weaver when the Athletics and Angels do battle Sunday. Jaso has just one hit in 17 career at-bats against Weaver, though he has drawn five walks - the most of any Oakland hitter versus Weaver.

Totals Streak

Baltimore Orioles (1-5-1 O/U): Solid pitching has been the catalyst for the Orioles' four-game winning streak; they've allowed just seven runs during that stretch, which was capped by a sweep of the host Chicago White Sox. Baltimore is 54-68-3 O/U for the year.

Prop of the Day

Bettors may want to take a chance on the Miami Marlins prevailing by exactly one run Friday night in Colorado (+600). The Marlins have played one-run games in nine of right-hander Henderson Alvarez's last 14 starts - and won all nine.

Injury Notes

* The Angels have lost starter Garrett Richards for the rest of the season with a torn patellar tendon. Richards was one of the best value plays in the majors this season, racking up $1,060 as the Angels went 19-7 in his 26 starts.

* The Dodgers are expected to have shortstop Hanley Ramirez (oblique) back in the lineup Sunday afternoon against the Mets. Ramirez has missed the last 12 games with the injury; Los Angeles is 6-6 SU, 5-7 O/U and -131 units in his absence.

Weather Watch

* A 9 mph wind will blow in from center field Saturday when the Red Sox host the Mariners. Teams averaged just 1.57 homers while batting a paltry .227 in seven games with the wind blowing in from center a year ago - well below Fenway Park averages.

** Odds, stats, weather forecasts and probable pitchers as of 9:45 a.m. ET Friday.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Preview: Royals (71-55) at Rangers (49-77)

Game: 2
Venue: Globe Life Park in Arlington
Date: August 23, 2014 8:05 PM EDT


After a hiccup against the NL's worst team, the Kansas City Royals resumed their impressive run against the worst club the AL has to offer.

The Texas Rangers could be hard-pressed to slow down Kansas City on Saturday night given the power shown recently by Billy Butler and Josh Willingham.

The visiting Royals (71-56) bounced back from Wednesday's 5-2 loss at last-place Colorado with a 6-3 victory over the hapless Rangers (49-78) on Friday. Kansas City has won 23 of 29, turning an eight-game deficit in the AL Central into a 2 1/2-game edge over Detroit in that span.

Butler hit his eighth homer while Willingham connected for his 14th. Butler still owns a career-worst OPS of .718 but has compiled a .972 mark over his last 18 games. Willingham is batting .344 and slugging .656 in 10 games since being acquired from the Twins, for whom he hit .210 and slugged .402 over 68 contests.

Willingham's former club is 14 games out of first place while Kansas City is eyeing its first playoff berth since 1985.

"Obviously, it's awesome being in a pennant race, and every game, every at-bat means something," Willingham said.

Though Salvador Perez was 0 for 5, his presence in the lineup was a welcome relief after he had been scratched from Wednesday's lineup due to discomfort in his right knee. An MRI only showed inflammation, alleviating some concern considering the All-Star catcher underwent surgery two years ago for a torn meniscus in his other knee.

Jeremy Guthrie (9-10, 4.48 ERA) will take aim at winning a career-high fourth straight road start. He owns a 2.45 ERA in that stretch, though he looked vulnerable in Sunday's 12-6 win at Minnesota, yielding four runs - three on two homers - over seven innings. He received 11 runs of support, marking the third time in five outings he was backed with at least six runs.

Guthrie has never won in four starts at Texas, going 0-1 with a 5.82 ERA. Elvis Andrus is 8 for 19 against him with a home run and two doubles.

The Rangers have struggled to find good starting pitching lately, with their staff compiling a 6.99 ERA while losing six of eight. Nick Tepesch (4-7, 4.15) has been strong of late, however, posting a 2.45 ERA in his last four starts.

He's just 1-1 in that span, largely due to receiving only six runs of support over 25 2-3 innings.

He held the Los Angeles Angels to two runs while pitching seven innings for the second straight outing for the first time in his career in Texas' 3-2 win on Sunday.

"It's starting to come together for him," manager Ron Washington said of the 25-year-old Kansas City native.

Tepesch allowed an unearned run and seven hits over 6 1-3 innings in his only start versus Kansas City, coming away without a decision in the Rangers' 4-1 home loss on June 1, 2013.

The Royals had dropped 10 of 11 at Texas before taking four of the last six meetings there.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

2Halves2Win

MLB COMP

DET @ MIN

1* (Game 1): Twins ML

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

'Jays Sting-Rays'

Game two of a three game series between Toronto and Tampa is today’s baseball betting focus. Toronto’s lefty Mark Buehrle will toe the rubber for John Gibbons' squad this afternoon, bringing an 11-8 record, 3.38 ERA to the hill. Following a superb 10-1 mark over his first 12 starts (11-1 TSR) the southpaw is a shaky 1-7 the past thirteen on the mound (6-7 TSR). On the other side, Rays' counter with right-hander Jeremy Hellickson sporting a 1-2 record, 2.56 ERA over six starts this campaign (3-3 TSR). According to the current betting odds Blue Jays enter this contest as -$1.25 home favorite. A club such as Toronto ridding a 2-7 skid along with a shaky hurler is usually a reason to walk away from a game. However, there appears to be enough in Jays' favor in this situation to counteract such concerns. It all starts with Toronto's success against Tampa with Buehrle. Jays' are 3-0 vs Rays' this season with the hurler, 5-2 in his seven starts since joining the club. In addition, Jays have thrived at Rogers Center as a favorite with Buehrle going 14-4 the past eighteen starts. Finally, when Buehrle has pitched during a day game the Jays have won six of his eight trips to the mound.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hondo

It was a Uehara show in Boston Friday night as the Sawx closer opened the floodgates for the Mariners and sent Hondo’s runaway debt soaring to 1,520 rasmussens.

Saturday night: Mr. Aitch expects Cashner to be the victor against Nuno — 10 units on the Padres.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Ryan

NFLX Minnesota Vikings vs. Kansas City Chiefs

5* Minnesota Vikings

5* graded play on the Minnesota Vikings as they take on the Kansas City Chiefs in NFLX action set to start Saturday, August 23 at 8:05 PM ET. The simulator shows a high probability that the Vikings will lose this game by fewer than three points and has a great shot at winning their third straight preseason game. You may be aware that Week 3 in the NFLX offers some of the best betting opportunities for the season. It is a final dress rehearsal for many teams before the real season begins in ernest. Many opinions focus on the fact that Minnesota is 2-0 and really doesn't have any great need to play their first units longer than a few possessions. yet, the following system shows otherwise. Supporting this graded play is a proven system posting a 30-11 ATS mark for 73% winners since 2008. Play on underdogs of 3.5 to 10 points (MINNESOTA) after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins. The following game situations match the SIM projections for this matchup. KC is just 2-16 ATS (-15.6 Units) when they allow 300 to 350 total yards since 1993; 5-17 ATS (-13.7 Units) when they allow 100 to 125 rushing yards since 1993; 3-14 ATS (-12.4 Units) when they allow 5 to 5.5 total yards per play since 1993. Take the Minnesota Vikings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

EZWINNERS

3* (951) San Francisco Giants +$170

3* (979) Los Angeles Angels +$140

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Saturday's Preseason Tips
By Kevin Rogers

Buccaneers at Bills (-3, 41½)

2014 Preseason Records:
TB: 0-2 SU, 0-2 ATS
BUF: 1-2 SU, 1-2 ATS

Preseason review: Tampa Bay’s offense has been nearly non-existent in two preseason losses to Jacksonville and Miami, scoring just 24 points. The Bucs have lost six of their past seven exhibition contests, while tallying 17 points or fewer six times in this stretch. The Bills are finally playing at home following three games away from Western New York, including last week’s 19-16 defeat at Pittsburgh as a short underdog. Buffalo’s defense has looked solid, allowing 19 points or less in each contest.

Previous preseason meeting: First preseason matchup

Cowboys at Dolphins (-3½, 46½)

2014 Preseason Records:
DAL: 0-2 SU, 0-2 ATS
MIA: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Preseason review: The Dolphins fell short in their preseason opener at Atlanta, 16-10, but bounced back last week with an impressive 20-14 triumph at Tampa Bay as a 2½-point underdog. The Cowboys continue to have their issues defensively after giving up 37 points in last week’s seven-point home defeat to the Ravens. Dallas has dropped five of its past six preseason contests, while scoring seven points or fewer in three of the last five exhibition games.

Previous preseason meeting: Cowboys defeated Dolphins, 30-13 as 2½-point home favorites in 2012.

Titans at Falcons (-3½, 44)

2014 Preseason Records:
TEN: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS
ATL: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Preseason review: One week after holding off Green Bay in a driving rainstorm, the Titans fell at New Orleans, 31-24 as three-point underdogs. Tennessee has seen the ‘over’ hit in four of the past six exhibition games, while posting an 0-3 SU/ATS record in its last three preseason road tilts. The Falcons were destroyed at Houston last week, 32-7 while getting outscored 19-0 in the second half. Atlanta has struggled in the preseason the last few years, posting a 2-12 SU and 4-10 ATS record since 2011.

Previous preseason meeting: Titans beat Falcons, 27-16 as three-point home favorites in 2013.

Redskins at Ravens (-2½, 43½)

2014 Preseason Records:
WSH: 2-0 SU, 1-1 ATS
BAL: 2-0 SU, 2-0 ATS

Preseason review: The Redskins benefited from a Hail Mary touchdown pass on the final play of Monday’s 24-23 victory over the Browns as two-point home favorites, while the ‘over’ of 41½ cashed. The Ravens cruised past the 49ers in the preseason opener, 23-3, then outlasted the Cowboys in Dallas last week, 37-30. Baltimore built a 27-10 lead over Dallas before the Cowboys got as close as four points in the final five minutes of regulation.

Previous preseason meeting: Ravens beat Redskins, 34-31 as four-point home favorites in 2011.

Saints at Colts (-2½, 47)

2014 Preseason Records:
NO: 2-0 SU, 2-0 ATS
IND: 0-2 SU, 1-1 ATS

Preseason review: The Colts have gone 0-for-New York in two preseason contests, losing to the Jets and Giants. Last week’s defeat to the Giants was an epic meltdown, blowing a 26-0 advantage before allowing 27 unanswered points in the fourth quarter of a 27-26 loss as one-point home favorites. The Saints have looked solid through two victories over the Rams and Titans, while each game easily went ‘over’ the total. New Orleans has covered eight consecutive preseason games, as the Saints own a 5-1 straight-up record in their past six exhibition contests.

Previous preseason meeting: Colts beat Saints, 27-14 as 3½-point road favorites in 2006.

Vikings at Chiefs (-4, 45)

2014 Preseason Records:
MIN: 2-0 SU, 1-1 ATS
KC: 1-1 SU, 0-1-1 ATS

Preseason review: The Vikings have squeezed out two home wins over the Raiders and Cardinals, as rookie Teddy Bridgewater led Minnesota on the game-winning touchdown drive against Arizona in a 30-28 victory last week. The Chiefs outlasted the Bengals in the preseason opener, 41-39 at home, but followed up with a clunker at Carolina, falling to the Panthers as three-point road underdogs, 28-16.

Previous preseason meeting: Vikings beat Chiefs, 17-13 as three-point home favorites in 2009.

Rams at Browns (-2½, 43½)

2014 Preseason Records:
STL: 0-2 SU, 0-2 ATS
CLE: 0-2 SU, 1-1 ATS

Preseason review: The Browns have failed to win a preseason game, while rookie Johnny Manziel has not taken control of the quarterback position for Cleveland. Manziel is 14-of-27 passing in a pair of one-point defeats to the Lions and Redskins, while Cleveland covered in Monday’s 24-23 loss at Washington in the final seconds. The Rams have lost each of their first two home contests to the Saints and Packers, as St. Louis owns a 1-5 SU/ATS in its previous six preseason games.

Previous preseason meeting: Browns beat Rams, 27-19 as 3 ½-point home favorites in 2013.

Texans at Broncos (-7, 46)

2014 Preseason Records:
HOU: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS
DEN: 2-0 SU, 2-0 ATS

Preseason review: The Broncos knocked off the top two teams in the NFC, the Seahawks and 49ers to begin the preseason at 2-0. Denver opened up San Francisco’s new stadium with a 34-0 shutout of the 49ers to easily cash as four-point road underdogs. The Texans have been involved in a pair of blowouts, getting blanked at Arizona, 32-0, but followed that embarrassment up with a 32-7 rout of the Falcons at home.

Previous preseason meeting: Texans beat Broncos, 19-16 as three-point home favorites in 2008.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations

WNBA | INDIANA at WASHINGTON
Play On - Home teams (WASHINGTON) after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games, with a winning percentage of between 40-49% after 15 or more games
134-75 since 1997. ( 64.1% | 51.5 units )
6-12 this year. ( 33.3% | -7.2 units )

WNBA | INDIANA at WASHINGTON
Play On - Home favorites vs. the money line (WASHINGTON) off a loss against a division rival, in August or September games
243-86 since 1997. ( 73.9% | 0.0 units )
7-2 this year. ( 77.8% | 0.0 units )

WNBA | INDIANA at WASHINGTON
Play Under - Home teams where the first half total is between 65.5 and 70.5 points good free throw shooting team - making >=76% of their free throws
320-201 since 1997. ( 61.4% | 98.9 units )
21-14 this year. ( 60.0% | 5.6 units )

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations

MLB | MIAMI at COLORADO
Play On - All teams when the money line is +125 to -125 (MIAMI) below average NL hitting team (AVG <=.255) against a team with a below avg bullpen (ERA >=4.50), starting a well rested pitcher who is working on 5 or 6 days rest
340-242 since 1997. ( 58.4% | 103.4 units )
26-13 this year. ( 66.7% | 12.7 units )

StatFox Situational Power Trends

MLB | BALTIMORE at CHICAGO CUBS
BALTIMORE is 42-26 (+19.5 Units) against the money line vs. good fielding teams - averaging <=0.6 errors/game this season.
The average score was: BALTIMORE (4.3) , OPPONENT (3.4)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Gamblers Data

Free Plays Saturday

Astros +140

Tampa Bay +100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Baseball Crusher

Play of the Day
Milwaukee Brewers -140 over Pittsburgh Pirates

Rest of the Plays
Kansas City Royals -112 over Texas Rangers
San Diego Padres -118 over Arizona Dbacks
Los Angeles Dodgers -158 over NY Mets

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Soccer Crusher

Independiente + Velez Sarsfield UNDER 2
This match is happening in Argentina

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Today's NFL PicksNew Orleans at IndianapolisThe Colts have dropped their first two preseason games while the Saints come into tonight's matchup off back-to-back wins over St. Louis (26-24) and Tennessee (31-24). New Orleans is the pick (+2 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Saints favored by 3 1/2. Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (+2 1/2). Here are all of this week's NFL preseason picks.


SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
Time Posted: 7:00 a.m. EST (8/20)


Game 263-264: Tampa Bay at Buffalo (4:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 117.388; Buffalo 117.265
Dunkel Line: Even; 37
Vegas Line: Buffalo by 3; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+3); Under


Game 265-266: Dallas at Miami (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 116.629; Miami 122.375
Dunkel Line: Miami by 5 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Miami by 3; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-3); Under


Game 267-268: Tennessee at Atlanta (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 117.683; Atlanta 123.237
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 5 1/2; 40
Vegas Line: Atlanta by 3; 44
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (-3). Under


Game 269-270: Washington at Baltimore (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 129.374; Baltimore 128.615
Dunkel Line: Washington by 1; 48
Vegas Line: Baltimore by 3; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (+3); Over


Game 271-272: New Orleans at Indianapolis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 124.133; Indianapolis 120.404
Dunkel Line: New Orleans by 3 1/2; 52
Vegas Line: Indianapolis by 2 1/2; 47
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (+2 1/2); Over


Game 273-274: Minnesota at Kansas City (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 119.372; Kansas City 123.744
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 4 1/2; 48
Vegas Line: Kansas City by 3; 45
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-3); Over


Game 275-276: St. Louis at Cleveland (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 120.388; Cleveland 119.025
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 1; 39
Vegas Line: Cleveland by 3; 42 1/2;
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (+3); Under


Game 277-278: Houston at Denver (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 122.281; Denver 133.029
Dunkel Line: Denver by 10; 50
Vegas Line: Denver by 7; 46
Dunkel Pick: Denver (-7); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

WNBA Basketball PicksMinnesota at San AntonioThe Stars look to stay alive in the series as they head back to the AT&T Center tonight where they are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. San Antonio is the pick (+4) according to Dunkel, which has the Stars favored by 4 1/2. Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (+4). Here are all of today's WNBA picks


SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. EST


Game 609-610: Indiana at Washington (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 110.035; Washington 111.820
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 2; 148
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 4; 143
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (+4); Over


Game 611-612: Minnesota at San Antonio (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 111.249; San Antonio 115.948
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 4 1/2; 160
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota by 4; 155 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (+4); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Today's MLB PicksKansas City at TexasThe Royals look to follow up last night's 6-3 win in the series opener and come into tonight's contest with a 5-0 record in Jeremy Guthrie's last 5 starts as a road favorite. Kansas City is the pick (-120) according to Dunkel, which has the Royals favored by 2 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-120). Here are all of today's MLB picks.


SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. EST


Game 951-952: San Francisco at Washington (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco (Lincecum) 16.413; Washington (Zimmermann) 15.312
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Washington (-200); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (+170); Over


Game 953-954: St. Louis at Philadelphia (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis (Miller) 17.312; Philadelphia (Buchanan) 15.498
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 2; 9
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-130); 8
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-130); Over


Game 955-956: Pittsburgh at Milwaukee (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh (Vloquez) 16.796; Milwaukee (Peralta) 15.290
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-145); 8
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (+125); Under


Game 957-958: Atlanta at Cincinnati (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta (Santana) 16.124; Cincinnati (Leake) 13.296
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 3; 7
Vegas Line: Atlanta (-125) 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (-125); Under


Game 959-960: Miami at Colorado (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (Koehler) 14.867; Colorado (Lyles) 16.775
Dunkel Line: Colorado by 2; 11
Vegas Line: Colorado (-110); 10
Dunkel Pick: Colorado (-110); Over


Game 961-962: San Diego at Arizona (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Cashner) 15.877; Arizona (Nuno) 14.309
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: San Diego (-125); 8
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (-125); Over


Game 963-964: NY Mets at LA Dodgers (9:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Mets (deGrom) 15.499; LA Dodgers (Greinke) 16.976
Dunkel Line: LA Dodgers by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-160); 7
Dunkel Pick: LA Dodgers (-160); Under


Game 965-966: Tampa Bay at Toronto (1:07 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay (Hellickson) 14.554; Toronto (Buehrle) 15.872
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Toronto (-120); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-120); Under


Game 967-968: Chicago White Sox at NY Yankees (1:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: White Sox (Carroll) 13.221; NY Yankees (Kuorda) 15.415
Dunkel Line: NY Yankees by 2; 9
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-200); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Yankees (-200); Over


Game 969-970: Detroit at Minnesota (1:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Farmer) 16.774; Minnesota (Pino) 15.398
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A


Game 971-972: Detroit at Minnesota (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Verlander) 14.997; Minnesota (May) 15.812
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 1; 8
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A


Game 973-974: Seattle at Boston (1:35 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle (Young) 16.055; Boston (Workman) 13.628
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 2 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Seattle (-115); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-115); Under


Game 975-976: Houston at Cleveland (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston (McHugh) 14.657; Cleveland (Salazar) 16.332
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Cleveland (-160); 8
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-160); Over


Game 977-978: Kansas City at Texas (8:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Guthrie) 16.595; Texas (Tepesch) 14.287
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 2 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-120); 9
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-120); Over


Game 979-980: LA Angels at Oakland (9:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Wilson) 14.332; Oakland (Lester) 15.879
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line: Oakland (-165); 7
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (-165); Under


Game 981-982: Baltimore at Chicago Cubs (2:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Norris) 16.332; Cubs (Hendricks) 14.901
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Baltimore (-120); No Run Total
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (-120); N/A

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Ben Burns


Tampa Bay vs. Toronto
Pick: @ -115 Toronto
8* breakfast club.


San Francisco vs. Washington
Pick: @ -180 Washington
6* Blue Marlin Nationals


LA Angels vs. Oakland
Pick: @ -157 Oakland
9* A's Personal Favorite

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Today's CFL Picks Toronto at Edmonton The Argonauts head to Edmonton this afternoon to face an Eskimos team that is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games in Week 9 of the season. Edmonton is the pick (-8) according to Dunkel, which has the Eskimos favored by 11. Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (-8). Here are all of this week's CFL picks.


SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
Time Posted: 7:00 a.m. EST (8/19)


Game 293-294: Toronto at Edmonton (4:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 110.662; Edmonton 121.882
Dunkel Line: Edmonton by 11; 53
Vegas Line: Edmonton by 8; 48 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (-8); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CHASE DIAMOND

15*Philadelphia Phillies+111

This game features the 69-58 Cardinals and the 57-71 Phillies. I like the Phillies yesterday and was afraid to jump at the big plus money but I'll take the nice plus money today we have a slight edge in pitching today as David Buchanan has been a solid rookie for the Phillies who have won 2 straight and are hitting the ball well. Shelby Miller has been up and down all year and I'm not expecting much from him tonight. The public is all over the Cardinals big time here as 86% of the public are backing them yet this line has moved 7 cents the wrong way telling us who the Sharps are backing there money wagon too. Take the Phillies for a 15* straight plus money winner.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Five to Follow MLB Betting: Saturday August 23, 2014 Opening Line Report
by Alan Matthews

I love baseball and will continue these stories through the end of the regular season, but let’s not kid ourselves here: This is the last Saturday that baseball is front and center on our betting minds with college football season set to kick off. There are six matinee matchups on the MLB schedule this Saturday, so that’s a good thing. There need to be more matinee games every day of the season and always at least one. Listening Rob Manfred? Here’s a look at five interesting matchups.

Mariners at Red Sox (-105, 9)

Remember I mentioned Cuban free agent Rusney Castillo earlier this week? The Red Sox got him on Friday for $72.5 million, but since they aren’t going anywhere this year it’s doubtful that Castillo plays in the majors until 2015. Also keep an eye on whether fellow Cuban Yoenis Cespedes plays here. He left Thursday’s game to deal with an as yet unspecified family emergency. No word when he may return. This game will be interesting for the Sox because it’s the night after they have to face Felix Hernandez. One presumes they do nothing against King Felix and thus the stuff of Mariners starter Chris Young (12-6, 3.07) will seem tame in comparison. Young has a magnificent 2.35 ERA at home but 3.93 on the road. He hasn’t faced Boston this year. The Sox go with Brandon Workman (1-7, 4.26). Boston has lost the past seven times he has taken the mound (once in relief). He was good last time out, holding the Angels to two runs over seven innings. Only a few Mariners have ever seen him. Kendrys Morales is 3-for-4 with a double and two RBIs vs. Workman.

Key trends: The Mariners are 5-0 in Young’s past five starts. The “over” is 4-0 in his past four. The “under” is 7-0 in Workman’s past seven vs. teams with a winning record.

Early lean: Early start after a night game means that total is too high, especially if Cespedes is out. Go under.



Orioles at Cubs (+107, TBA)

The Cubs are going to sign a top-notch pitcher in free agency this offseason by all accounts. The team might have a pretty formidable top three with whomever that is (most believe Jon Lester), Jake Arrieta and Saturday’s starter Kyle Hendricks (5-1, 1.48), who has shattered all expectations. The rookie allowed four runs in his first big-league start and hasn’t allowed more than one in the past six. He’s 4-0 with a 0.92 ERA in August and is the first Cubs rookie with six straight quality starts since Kerry Wood 16 years ago. The Orioles’ Bud Norris (11-7, 3.69) has won three straight starts with a 3.63 ERA this month. Starlin Castro hits him better than any Cub by far, but he remains on the bereavement list. Anthony Rizzo is 0-for-9 against Norris.

Key trends: Baltimore is 5-1 in Norris’ past six against teams with a losing record. The Cubs are 2-11 in their past 13 in Game 2 of a series. The under is 6-0 in Norris’ past six on Saturday.

Early lean: Stick with the hot hand in Hendricks, especially as a home dog and the O’s not having their DH.



Pirates at Brewers (-153, 8)

Raise your hand if you projected Milwaukee’s Wily Peralta to lead the National League in victories this season. Yeah, didn’t think so. It could happen as Peralta (15-7, 3.27) is tied for the NL lead with Cincinnati’s Johnny Cueto and St. Louis’ Adam Wainwright, two guys you would expect to be atop this category. No Brewer has led his league in victories since Pete Vuckovich in the strike-shortened 1981 season. That’s hard to believe. Peralta has won six of his past seven starts, and even the loss was a quality outing. He has dominated the Pirates, going 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in two starts this year. Andrew McCutchen is 1-for-7 with a solo homer off him. Pittsburgh’s Edinson Volquez (10-7, 3.58) hasn’t personally lost in his past five starts. He is 1-1 with a 2.79 ERA in three starts against Milwaukee. Rickie Weeks is likely to start at second for the Brewers as he’s 7-for-19 with two homers career off Volquez. Carlos Gomez has three solo homers in 24 at-bats off him. This game will have live betting at Bovada.

Key trends: The Pirates are 5-1 in Volquez’s past six on the road. Milwaukee is 10-1 in Peralta’s past 11 at home vs. teams with a winning record.

Early lean: This total seems a run too high. Under at -115. Like the Brewers as well.



Angels at A’s (-147, 7)

If Los Angeles is going to hold off Oakland for the AL West title or even get a wild-card spot, Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson really have to up their games in the wake of Garrett Richards’ season-ending injury. Weaver starts the ESPN Sunday night finale in Oakland, while Wilson gets the call Saturday. The lefty Wilson (10-8, 4.59) is showing some signs of returning to form. His first two starts off the DL weren’t good, but his last two have been as he beat both the Phillies and Red Sox, allowing three combined runs over 12 innings. Wilson has managed to avoid Oakland this season. Jonny Gomes is 6-for-18 with two doubles and a homer off Wilson in his career. All-Star Josh Donaldson is just a .182 hitter in 22 at-bats off him. Oakland’s Jon Lester (13-8, 2.58) was acquired to win big games such as these. He won his first three starts with the A’s but lost last time out against Atlanta, allowing four runs for the first time since early June. He hasn’t faced the Halos in 2014. Josh Hamilton hits him decently, going 7-for-24 with a homer and three knocked in. This game will have live betting at Bovada.

Key trends: The Angels are 1-7 in Wilson’s past eight on the road. The A’s are 2-5 in their past seven against lefties. The over is 6-1 in Wilson’s past seven vs. Oakland.

Early lean: This is Lester’s biggest start so far this season. He’ll win it. Best value is probably Oakland at +150 on the runline.



Mets at Dodgers (-170, 7)

This could have been a potentially devastating week for both of L.A.’s baseball teams. You know all about the Angels’ Richards, but the Dodgers avoided a potential disaster of their own with No. 2 starter Zack Greinke (12-8, 2.75). He was supposed to pitch Thursday but was feeling some discomfort in his elbow. This year, that seems to lead to Tommy John surgery. But the Dodgers feel confident that by pushing Greinke back two days it won’t be a problem. He will have had a full seven days off, last pitching Aug. 15 when he shut out the Brewers over five innings. Greinke hasn’t won since July 25. He took a no-decision May 22 at the Mets, allowing one earned over five innings. The Mets’ Jacob deGrom (6-5, 2.87) is in the Rookie of the Year race, although it probably goes to Cincinnati’s Billy Hamilton. DeGrom avoided his own potential injury as he will be activated off the DL after dealing with a bit of rotator-cuff tendinitis. The Mets have won six of his past seven outings. He lost to the Dodgers on May 21, allowing three solo homers (Adrian Gonzalez, Yasiel Puig, currently injured Hanley Ramirez) in six innings. That’s the only game he has allowed more than one dinger. Bovada is offering live betting on this matchup.

Key trends: L.A. has won 15 of Greinke’s past 21 against teams with a losing record. The under has hit in five of deGrom’s past seven on the road.

Early lean: Is Greinke really healthy? The Mets are good value at +160 … assuming deGrom is healthy. Go under regardless at -125.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BOB BALFE

NFLX

Tampa Bay Buccaneers +3
Atlanta Falcons -3
Dallas Cowboys +3.5
Washington Redskins +2.5
Colts vs Saints - Under 47.5
St. Louis Rams +2.5
Kansas City Chiefs -3.5
Houston Texans +7

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NEWSLETTER European Soccer Prediction From Strike Point Sports

Take ‘Over’ 2.5 – Everton at Arsenal (12:30 p.m., Saturday, August 23)

Two of the English top flight’s top teams square off in the northwest of the country when Arsenal visit Everton. Both teams are attack-minded and know a lone goal is likely not to be enough to win this match. I see both sides getting on the score sheet and contributing at least a goal a piece in this encounter. Arsenal is coming off an early week trip to Istanbul from the Champions League qualifier, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them a little more off their top game because of that. Neither defense screams clean sheet, so look for a 2-1 or 2-2 finish between these two teams on Saturday.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NEWSLETTER NFL Preseason Prediction From Allen Eastman

Take #274 Kansas City (-3.5) over Minnesota (7:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23)

This is Mike Zimmer’s first road game as head coach of the Vikings. Minnesota has had two good games at home to open the preseason. But now they are hitting the road. And things can get chaotic for a rookie coach and a young team. The Chiefs are at home and have an easy week with no travel. And Andy Reid is an old pro anyway. The Chiefs starters were outscored 14-6 by Carolina last week. But they outplayed them. Kansas City just couldn’t finish drives with TDs. Reid’s teams have gone 10-5 in his career in Week 3 in the preseason and they will want to get a win here after losing by 12 last week. I think this Chiefs defense will be able to shoot down Matt Cassel and frustrate Teddy Bridgewater. I expect a lot of Bridgewater. And like his rookie coach I think that his first game on the road can overwhelm him. I like the Chiefs to rebound and I like the Vikings to letdown after their come-from-behind win last week at home against Arizona. Take the home team here and collect with the Chiefs.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Advanced sports investments

perry's soccer club

england - championship
10am- bolton wanderers @ brighton & hove albion - under 2.5 -140

england - league 1
10am- oldham athletic @ preston north end fc - over 2.5 -105

england - league 2
10am- burton albion @ newport county afc - under 2.5 -150

portugal - 1 liga
11am- fc porto @ fc pacos ferreira - over 2.5 -115

belgium - jupiler league
2pm- royal mouscron-peruwelz @ sv zulte waregem - over 2.5 -120

usa - mls
7pm- chicago fire @ toronto fc - over 2.5 -120

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NFLPredictions / Kevin

Minnesota Vikings @ Kansas City Chiefs – CHIEFS -4 (-102)
New Orleans Saints @ Indianapolis Colts – SAINTS +2.5 (-105)
Tennessee Titans @ Atlanta Falcons – TITANS +3.5 (-105)
Dallas Cowboys @ Miami Dolphins – COWBOYS +3 (+110)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

*Saturday’s Week 3 NFL Preseason Primer

The bulk of the NFL’s Week 3 preseason action takes place Saturday night, highlighted by a showdown of top-tier quarterbacks in Indianapolis and the defending AFC champions at home to last year’s worst team. Here’s a look at betting notes for Saturday’s eight-game schedule:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Buffalo Bills (-3, 41.5)

* The Buccaneers went with a predominantly no-huddle attack with the first-team offense last week in a loss to the Miami Dolphins and offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford is expected to do the same Saturday versus Buffalo. The defense has been tasked with learning a version of the Tampa 2 defense – one designed to create turnovers – but has forced just one so far and is expected to ratchet up the pressure Saturday.

* Buffalo’s first-team offense has moved the ball remarkably well through the first two preseason games – four of the team’s five drives went for at least nine plays – but the Bills are a woeful 0-for-5 in the red zone and will look to break the goose-egg against Tampa Bay. It’s unclear whether Buffalo will have wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who is nursing a rib injury and may sit out as a precaution.

Dallas Cowboys at Miami Dolphins (-3, 46.5)

* Unlike most teams, who comfortably play their starters into the third quarter of the third preseason game, Cowboys coach Jason Garrett plans to limit quarterback Tony Romo – making his return from offseason back surgery – to no more than two quarters against the Dolphins. Romo took 14 snaps in last week’s game against Baltimore, his first action of the preseason, and Garrett predicts Romo may get around the same Saturday.

* The Miami running back situation should be a little clearer after Saturday’s game, with Knowshon Moreno returning from a knee injury and expected to see significant action as he looks to usurp Lamar Miller as the team’s feature back. A groin injury to Caleb Sturgis has opened the door for backup kicker John Potter, who nailed a pair of long field goals last week and is in position to challenge for the starting role.

Tennessee Titans at Atlanta Falcons (-3, 44)

* The starting running back job appears to be Shonn Greene’s to lose – at least heading into Week 1 – as rookie Bishop Sankey continues to struggle with a fumbling problem that has plagued him since the beginning of training camp. Both should see plenty of action Saturday. A finger injury to backup QB Charlie Whitehurst will likely result in rookie Zach Mettenberger playing nearly the entire second half in relief of Jake Locker.

* Atlanta’s first-team units will look to bounce back after a dreadful showing against the Houston Texans last week, one in which the starting offense ended each of its four drives with punts and the defense allowed a lengthy touchdown drive. Rookie Jake Matthews will make his debut as the starting left tackle and will be looking to hang onto the job after struggling for most of the preseason.

Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens (-2.5, 43.5)

* The focus on offense will be on the performance of Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III, who has moved the ball effectively through the exhibition season but has struggled mightily in the red zone and is still working on not taking big hits when he carries it himself. Pass rusher Jason Hatcher will make his debut with Washington after being limited throughout the preseason in his recovery from knee surgery.

* The Ravens are expected to give running back Bernard Pierce an extended look Saturday in hopes of preparing him for the lead role he’ll assume while regular starter Ray Rice serves a season-opening two-game suspension. With Baltimore’s top three defensive backs out with injuries, Chykie Brown and Dominique Franks will be asked to step up against one of the more formidable receiving corps in football.

New Orleans Saints at Indianapolis Colts (-2.5, 47)

* It’s unclear how the Saints plan to employ their three-headed rushing attack against Indianapolis as Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram and Khiry Robinson are all expected to get a fair share of work as head coach Sean Payton figures out how to split the carries during the season. Drew Brees and the first-team offense played a whopping 37 snaps in the third preseason game in 2013, and will likely wind up with a similar total Saturday.

* Running back Ahmad Bradshaw is expected to see his first action since suffering a season-ending neck injury last September, and has a golden chance to cut into Trent Richardson’s hold on the starting role as the incumbent is averaging just 2.4 yards per carry in the preseason. The Indianapolis defense has forced six punts on nine possessions in games against the Jets and Giants, but will find the going a lot tougher against the powerhouse Saints.

St. Louis Rams at Cleveland Browns (-2.5, 43.5)

* Rams head coach Jeff Fisher is expected to play the majority of his starters on offense and defense, though linebacker James Laurinaitis remains a question mark with an ankle injury and may be rested as a precaution. Four other key players – defensive tackle Michael Brockers (ankle), left tackle Jake Long (knee), guard Roger Saffold (neck) and cornerback Janoris Jenkins (hamstring) – will make their preseason debuts against the Browns.

* Now that the quarterback pecking order is set, Cleveland fans know exactly what to expect Saturday night – anointed starter Brian Hoyer will likely play the entire first half and at least the opening series of the third quarter, while rookies Johnny Manziel and Connor Shaw will likely handle the remainder of the snaps. Starting running back Ben Tate has looked solid in camp, and can create some separation atop the depth chart with a strong showing.

Minnesota Vikings at Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5, 45)

* It likely won’t come as a surprise to anyone, but the Vikings will rest starting running back Adrian Peterson for the third straight preseason game; Peterson hasn’t started an exhibition contest since 2011, and is virtually guaranteed to miss the preseason finale, as well. Four players for the Vikings will miss the game, including cornerback Jabari Price (arm) and linebacker Brandon Watts (lower leg).

* The Kansas City defense will look to return to a more disciplined style of play Saturday night after racking up 13 penalties for 131 yards against Carolina last weekend; the Chiefs had just four penalties for 32 yards in the opener against Carolina. Kansas City offensive tackle Donald Stephenson is expected to remain in the lineup, but he has been suspended for the first four games of the regular season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

Houston Texans at Denver Broncos (-7, 46)

* All eyes will be on second-year Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who has improved dramatically in training camp and could see an increased workload alongside No. 1 wideout Andre Johnson. Reserve running back Jonathan Grimes began training camp well back on the depth chart, but has excelled to the point where he is now the unquestioned No. 2 behind Arian Foster and can strengthen his hold on the role Saturday.

* The Broncos are expected to get stronger on both sides of the ball Saturday, with a pair of key players making their preseason debuts against the Texans. Linebacker Von Miller will likely see significant action in his first appearance since suffering an ACL tear in his right knee against Houston last December, while running back Montee Ball makes his return after undergoing an appendectomy earlier this month.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Cappers Access

NFLX

Bills -3
Colts -2.5
Vikings +3.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Paul Leiner

100* Falcons -3
100* Mariners -115
50* Orioles -120

[Can'tPickAWinner]

SCOTT SPREITZER'S WEEK-9 SAT. KNOCKOUT! *7-1 TY!* > Scott Spreitzer

Toronto Argonauts at Edmonton Eskimos Aug 23 2014 4:05PM
Prediction: Toronto Argonauts

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INDIAN COWBOY (SOCCER)

3* Play. Take Manchester City -0.5 (-110) over Liverpool
Note: This play is for Manchester City to win the match in the normal 90 minutes. A draw results in a loss.

3* Play. Take Aston Villa -0.5 (+160) over Newcastle (7:45 a.m., Saturday, August 23) (English Premier League)
Note: This play is for Aston Villa to win the match in the normal 90 minutes. A draw results in a loss.

3* Play. Take Everton/Arsenal - 'Over' 2.5 goals (-133)

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Dave Essler MLB GOY

San Diego Padres
Cashner/Nuno

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Northcoast

3* Dal+3.5
3* N Orl +2
3* wash over 44.5
3* Atl -3.5

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Insiders Sports Report

5* seattle
3* tampa
3* baltimore ravens NFL

[Can'tPickAWinner]

RIVER CITY SHARPS

Wow have things gone south on these Cincinnati Reds! They almost were no-hit last night vs. the Braves Mike Minor before eventually losing in extra innings to drop the second straight game in this series with Atlanta. Tonight, the Reds will try and stop the bleeding as they give the rock to Mike Leake who will be challenged by the Braves Ervin Santana. To be very honest with you, this game (on paper) really qualifies as Diamond play for us, but we have backed it down to a 3 Unit selection (regression to the mean…Reds need to win at some point, right?) All of that said, we feel really comfortable laying a littl bit of chalk with the road favorite here tonight. Kep in mind that Leake has given up the most hits in the National League (178) this season and Santana enters this game with an 8-1 mark over his last 10 starts. Shall we go on? OK…how about Santana beat these Reds earlier this season and the Braves have received a major league leading 90 quality starts by their staff this year! The Braves are playing really solid baseball right now, winning seven of their last eight games and are 19-7 in their last 26 games vs. the NL Central. The Reds are 3-13 in their last 16 games vs. teams with a winning record and 2-8 in Leake’s last 10 starts as an underdog of between +110 and +150. These teams are just moving in two completely different directions and we expect more of the same tonight. The Sharps say…

3 UNITS – ATLANTA BRAVES (-123)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Game of the Day: Argonauts at Eskimos

Toronto Argonauts at Edmonton Eskimos (-8, 49.5)

The Edmonton Eskimos return home for the first time since Week 5 to host the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday. Edmonton won both its road games to keep pace at the top of the West Division, while Toronto sits atop the East despite its 3-5 record. The Argonauts split their two Week 8 contests and Saturday’s game will be their third in 12 days, so fatigue could become a factor for the injury-depleted roster.

The Eskimos will be looking to shut down Toronto quarterback Ricky Ray by doing something similar to the BC Lions. Ray was held to less than 200 passing yards against the Lions after throwing for 297 on the previous Tuesday and Edmonton is likely to give him more headaches with 24 sacks and a league-leading 10 interceptions. Eskimos quarterback Mike Reilly will be facing the best pass defense in the East as the Argonauts average 227.5 passing yards allowed.

LINE HISTORY: The majority of books opened the Eskimos as 7.5-point home faves, but that has moved to -8. The total opened 48.5 but is up to 49.

INJURY REPORT: Argonauts - SB Chad Owens (Questionable, foot), WR Jarred Fayson (Questionable, undisclosed). Eskimos - SB Fred Stamps (Questionable, lower body).

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "The Argos may be coming off a blowout loss at home, but that was their second game in five days. They're in a far more favorable spot here, even as they hit the road to face a quality Eskimos squad. While I have plenty of respect for Edmonton, I'm not sure they warrant such a steep price in this spot. The West has owned the East so far this season, but I expect Toronto to hang tough here." Covers Expert Sean Murphy.

ABOUT THE ARGONAUTS (3-5): Slotback Jason Barnes returned to the lineup Sunday but fellow receivers Chad Owens, Andre Durie, Maurice Mann and John Chiles all remained out. Linebacker Antwaun Molden returned to the lineup and led the defense with nine tackles against the Lions. Molden, who also has two interceptions in 2014, and Tristan Okpalaugo are key parts of a defense that has 23 sacks and is growing stronger as the season progresses.

ABOUT THE ESKIMOS (6-1): Slotback Adarius Bowman leads the league with 532 receiving yards. Edmonton has been very good at generating turnovers by the opposition, but committed three turnovers of its own in Week 8’s 10-8 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks, severely limiting the Eskimos’ effectiveness on offense. Reilly is second on the team in rushing with 320 yards - 14 behind John White - but Edmonton has only recorded two rushing touchdowns.

TRENDS:

* Argonauts are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 meetings in Edmonton.
* Under is 4-0 in Eskimos last four home games.
* Argonauts are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six road games.
* Eskimos are 1-5 ATS in their last six home games.

COVERS CONSENSUS: 54 percent of wagers on Covers Consensus are backing the visiting Argonauts.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Northcoast FCS game
College football
Eastern Washington -7

Nfl comp KC-3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doc sports

7* MLB Baltimore

3* Astros +140

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Davis

MLB
4* Over 7.5 SF/WAS
4* Brewers -135

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BigBetTiger

MIAMI DOLPHINS -3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Allen Eastman

3* Tampa Bay +110
3* Cubs +105

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Strike Point Sports

MLB
4* Seattle -110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Teddy Covers

Seattle Mariners

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Will Rogers

NFLX Underdog Shocker

Vikings

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jimmy Boyd

San Francisco Giants

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Larry Ness

NFLX Goin Over the Total

Colts / Saints

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hollywood Sports

25* Preseason Dog Of The Year

Houston Texans

[Can'tPickAWinner]

LT LOCK


Redskins +2.5
Titans +3.5


Red Sox -111
Rangers +105
Phillies +100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Arthur Ralph
Super Pick Dodgers w/ Greinke
Trophy Plays NFL Titans + 4, Vikings + 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sportswagers

Miami @ COLORADO
Miami -103 over COLORADO

The Marlins have won four of five and spanked the Rockies last night, 13-5 in the opener. Miami has also scored 31 times in the past four games, they’re just four games out in the Wildcard race and they’ll take that momentum into this one against Jordan Lyles. Lyles has put up some decent numbers but he rarely lasts more than 5 innings and he certainly lacks plus offerings. Over his last four starts, Lyles posted a 5.21 ERA while allowing at least one jack in every game. Jordan Lyles is an average pitcher throwing for a depleted team.

Tom Koehler is a pitcher we like. His numbers are average (3.82 ERA – 1.26 WHIP) but he’s been getting progressively better almost every month since he’s been in the bigs. Koehler’s fastball velocity has increased every month this season. In his last outing, he struck out seven batters in six frames. He has a BAA of just .239 this season but an unlucky 70% strand rate has hurt his bottom line. Over his past 11 starts, Koehler has been taken yard just three times. Koehler’s strikeout rate, control and groundball percentage are all trending the right way. The Marlins have won four of Koehler’s last six starts, they’re swinging some hot bats and they’re a cheap price to extend that run here.

Our Pick
Miami -103 (Risking 2.06 units - To Win: 2.00)


Chicago @ N.Y. YANKEEES
Chicago +197 over N.Y. YANKEEES

1:05 PM EST. Rounding out the back-end of Chicago’s rotation is 29-year-old Scott Carroll, who has pitched nearly 100 innings for the South Side so far. With a decent body of work to review, are there any sneaky skills worth speculating on here? Carroll needs pinpoint control to offset his pitiful strikeout rate but he's below-average at locating his pitches. He's managed to scrape by, in large part by inducing a high number of groundballs, but his low K rate makes him more susceptible to luck-factors, and he's been hurt by a low strand percentage. With a 31%/23% dominant start/disaster start split, every Carroll outing is sure to be a roller-coaster. That said, the Yankees cannot be in this price range. They can make average pitchers look great and bad ones look good. Carroll’s 55% groundball rate really sticks out and could be a factor. To be fair, Carroll has been a bit sharper lately, producing a few gems over the past month and a half. The possibility of Carroll getting whacked is always present when he starts but there is too much value here to pass up on. It’s also worth noting that the White Sox possess a dangerous offense, which adds to their appeal.

25 starts and 154 innings for 39-year old Hiroki Kuroda may be starting to take a toll. Throw in the 421 innings he’s thrown over the previous two seasons and you begin to get the picture of a pitcher that is running low on gas. Kuroda has surrendered three runs or more in four of his last five starts. In his last start he only struck out one batter in 6.2 innings. Over his last five starts, Kuroda has a 4.35 ERA, which is right in line with his 4.44 ERA over that same span. Perhaps it's too early to suggest a significant playing time adjustment, but Kuroda does appear to need a breather. Two starts ago start (August 10) he was pulled after 4.2 innings, four walks and 97 pitches for his second disaster start in his previous four starts. Indeed the Yanks may pull this one out but in no way do they deserve this billing, as they have proven over the past six weeks that they can lose at any time to any pitcher. Big overlay.
Our Pick
Chicago +197 (Risking 2 units - To Win: 3.94)


Houston @ CLEVELAND
Houston +137 over CLEVELAND

Collin McHugh has come out of nowhere to produce one of the most incredible rags to riches story in a long time. Formerly Colorado's waiver fodder and N.Y Mets farm-hand, Houston picked up McHugh -- owner of a career 8.94 ERA at the MLB level -- in December, and inserted him into the rotation in April following a Scott Feldman injury. So, color us surprised that he's pitched like an ace since then. In 114 innings, McHugh has a BB/K split of 39/124. In nine road starts, McHugh has allowed 42 hits in 54 innings for a BAA of .215. McHugh has been just as good against righties (.194 oppBA) as he has against lefties (.213 oppBA) and the scary part is that’s he’s getting better. Over his last five starts, McHugh has a 2.27 ERA (2.98 xERA), he’s struck out 31 batters and has walked just six in 32 frames. In his last start, McHugh’s groundball rate was 59%. McHugh is undoubtedly one of the most undervalued starters in the game. Furthermore, the Astros are playing great ball with 12 wins over their past 20 games and they’re currently 5-3 on this 10-game trip. This team is having fun and they’re dangerous.

Danny Salazar has blazing, malevolent stuff. He averages (that's averages) 96 mph on a fastball with sinister movement and he mixes in a nasty splitter. This dude can throw but we’re not so sure he can pitch. In 13 starts, he has just four of the pure quality variety. Salazar also pitches up in the zone so he’s prone to the long ball and has already been tagged for 10 jacks in 67 innings. Another problem is that he averages more pitches per AB than any pitcher in the game, meaning his pitch count is usually high and as a result, he rarely lasts deep into games. Salazar has lasted five innings or less in four of his past six starts and in eight of his 12 starts this season. That leaves the rest to the Indians bullpen. With an awful groundball/fly-ball split of 27%/50% and the inability to last deep into games, Salazar is too big risk at this price.

Our Pick
Houston +137 (Risking 2 units - To Win: 2.74)


MLB Historical - Total

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Rochester Titans

All "5*" Plays

UFC: (yuta sasaki -130) (Zhang Lipeng +135) (alex garcia -140)
NFL: (falcons ml) (bills ml) (dallas+4.5) (houston +7) (colts over 47)
MLB: (jays ml) (rockies ML) Nats under 7.5)

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UNDER Umpire Streakers


#969 UN 9 +100 DET/MIN 1.00u to win 1.00u
TGibson 10ov/16un L26gms 61.5%


#953 UN 8 +100 STL/PHI 1.00u to win 1.00u
Onora 5ov/17un L22gms 77.3%


#977 UN 9 -105 KC/TX 1.05u to win 1.00u
Wendelstedt 7ov/12un L19gms 63.2%

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Diamond Dog Sports

#967: White Sox: +170 (3*)
Listed Pitchers: Carroll/Kuroda

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EXECUTIVE

PRE-SEASON

200 dolphins

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Doc

NFL Pre-season GOY is on the Dallas Cowboys

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GOODFELLA

Saturday Night NFLX Free Team Total

WASHINGTON REDSKINS – OVER 21 POINTS (-115 @BOL)

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Mike Neri Sports – Late Service

NFLX

THREE STAR 265 Dallas +3.5 7:00 EST

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SHAKER’S SHORTS

#976 Houston Astros vs Cleveland Indians – UNDER 4 -120 (1st 5 Innings)

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HARRY BONDI

NFL Preseason Free Pick
HOUSTON (+7) over Denver
9:00 p.m. ET

The Bronco’s have looked awesome in the preseason beating Seattle and crushing San Francisco last week 34-0. Peyton Manning has been outstanding completing 22 of 27 passes. But we are going to be contrarians here and back Houston because of Denver Head Coach John Fox’s week three history and a believe that Fox has already seen enough this preseason to show him that his squad is ready to repeat as AFC Champions. Fox is one of the few coaches that does not put a premium on week three of the preseason and his 0-3 ATS record as headman of the Bronco’s supports that premiss. We had Houston in it’s 32-7 shellacking of Atlanta last week and believe that Texans Head coach Bill O’Brien will play his starters three quarters and treat this as a regular season game, at least for three quarters, as he tries to put Houston’s horrific 2013 season in the rear view mirror.

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WUNDERDOG SPORTS FREE PICK

MLB Game: Tampa Bay Rays @ Toronto Blue Jays
Time: Saturday 08/23 1:05 PM Eastern
Pick: Game Total UNDER 9 (-115)

There is no doubt that Tampa Bay has been a much better team since falling 18 games below .500 in June. The biggest impact has been the pitching as the Rays’ staff has allowed 3 runs or less in 26 of their last 33 games. They are continuing to post 0s on the scoreboard, as the staff has not allowed a run in 20 consecutive innings. Toronto has faint hopes of making a run at the second AL Wild Card spot, but the offense has put on the brakes over the last 18 games where the team has compiled a total of 56 runs at 3.1 per contest. The lack of hitting and the quality pitching has left Tampa Bay with an 18-7-2 mark to the UNDER in their last 27 games, and to a total of 7 to 8.5, they stand at 17-5-2 UNDER in their last 24. Buerhle is made for the weekend with none of his last 12 Saturday starts topping the total, and the Blue Jays are also 13-3-1 to the UNDER in his last 17 in game two of a series start, as he goes to school on the opposing team. Play the UNDER in this one.

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BONES BEST BET

BRAVES ML -128 *4* BEST BET

The Reds are ice cold, while the Braves are on fire with wins in 8 of 10. Leake has been struggling of late with a 1.42 WHIP and a 5.21 ERA.

RAYS ML -102 *2*

Hellickson has been lights out with a 0.69 ERA on the road this season – while the Jays have gone sour including once unbeatable Mark Buehrle.

RAYS @ BLUE JAYS UNDER 8.5 -105 *3*

Coming off a complete destruction by the Rays last night 8-0, the Jays need to right the ship today if they want any chance at a post season birth. The bats just don’t seem to be there right now for them, as they are averaging just over 3 runs per game in their last 10 games. Today they face a much improved Jamie Hellickson, who enters this contest with a WHIP of 1.17 and ERA of 2.56, after managing just 2 hits yesterday it might be another long day. On the hill for the Jays is Mark Buehrle who may not need the bats to provide much support given his 2-0 record against the Rays this season spanning three starts with an ERA of 2.21 over 20.1 innings of work. We look for a low scoring affair here today.

TIGERS @ TWINS – OVER 9 -110 *2*

Both Farmer and Pino have been BAD this season – Farmer in his one start was roughed up hard and Pino has been struggling all season. The Tigers and Twins are both seeing 11+ runs over their past 5 games and saw a 26 spot yesterday.

DIAMONDBACKS -101 *3*

The Dbacks have won 7 of their last 10 meetings with the Padres. And the Padres are 25-41 on the road. No way should the Padres be favoured on the road. Cashner also struggles on the road. He has a 1.42 road WHIP this year. Nuno has yet to win while pitching for the Dbacks but he has pitched well. He has a 3.72 ERA and 1.11 WHIP since joining the team. Nuno gets his first win as a D-back today.

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LOCKSMITH SPORTS

MLB

3* Tampa Bay: +101

3* Arizona +103

2* San Francisco +156

1* New York Yankees Run Line -1.5 -110

NFLX
1* Washington Redskins +3 -110

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Tony the sports betting “champ”

Bet C — Cincinnati Reds RL+1.5

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GOODFELLA

NFLX (3*) TRIPLE DIME GAME OF MONTH

Washington Redskins+pts

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Ecks and Bacon

Ben lee lost on Friday in MLB in the National League with the Nationals -$150/Giants.

For Saturday on the pitch in English Premier Soccer E&B like Arsenal +$160/Everton and a play on the Draw +$220.

For Saturday in MLB in Interleague play "Mr Chalk" likes the Cubs -$107/Orioles.

Ben lee is 1-3 -$175 for week forty three 191-224-5 -$3137

"Mr Chalk" is 65-50 -$530 for the 2014 MLB season.

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

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Steve Fezzik

MLB Money Line - 1* Orioles

CFL 1* Toronto

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Andre Gomes

MLB Pick #1: 981 Baltimore Orioles @ 982 Chicago Cubs

(Starting Pitchers: B. Norris vs. K. Hendricks)

Rating: 3 units - Single Dime Play

Pick: 981 Baltimore Orioles ML @ -115 / 1.87 on Bookmaker (http://www.cappersmall.com/forums/redirect-to/?redirect=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bookmaker.eu%2F%3Fcmpid %3D4437)

BAL's SP Bud Norris has been great lately w/ a nice run of 4 straight quality outings. Note that he faced some tough matchups in those starts like LAA, TOR & CWS - all dangerous lineups and still he looked pretty good.

His K% numbers have been excellent in this second half of season w/ 22.4% K% mark vs. 16.5% in this second half of season and this is good news for him because CHC lineup has been a "K machine" for quite some time - I have them ranked dead last (#30) in the league in L30 days w/ an abysmal 26.0% K% mark!

BAL will face K. Hendricks who has been pretty good as well. However his advanced numbers are screaming for some regression as his 1.66 ERA does not match his 3.54 FIP & 3.85 xFIP numbers! BAL offense was shut down by J. Arrieta last night and they are looking to bounce back today - they are ranked #6 in L14 days, so I expect them to do some damage in here.

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LineCatchers

The Mariners take on the Red Sox in game 2 of their mini 3 game set at Fenway Park this afternoon and left it late on Friday to wipe out a 3-0 deficit in the 9th inning by scorching Koji Uehara for 5 ER on 5 hits and a walk in just 2/3 IP.

Saturday sees Seattle give the baseball to righty Chris Young who has been solid all season, he sports a 12-6 record with a 3.11 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 24 starts this campaign. Young has been especially stingy in 11 ‘Day’ starts, this year, going 5-2 with a 2.51 ERA and 1.00 WHIP. Among qualifying pitchers (Min 60 IP), he has held opponents to a .195 BAA which ranks 3rd in all of baseball in those matinee outings.

Brandon Workman gets the nod the the Red Sox and has been fairly inconsistent so far this season having struggled with his command throughout 2014. He has the tendency to work up 3 ball counts on a regular basis. Workman is 1-6 with a 4.41 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 11 starts this season. He has issued an average of 2.4 walks per game in his 11 games as a starter and the Red Sox are just 2-9 when Workman toes the rubber. In 6 ‘Home’ starts in 2014, the Boston hurler has pitched to a 4.46 ERA and 1.40 WHIP.

With the Mariners sitting just half a game above the Tigers in the 2nd AL WC spot, I believe the vale is on the road team in this match up. During their six-game skid, the Red Sox are just 3-for-47 with RISP and have left 50 men on base in those 6 games. Being opposed by the stingy Chris Young, I foresee Boston’s opportunity’s for run scoring to be few and far between.

Seattle Mariners - 109

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Betting First Look with Marco D'Angelo

Dallas Cowboys +4

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Chris James Sports

9-1 Last 10, 9 of 12 winning days

Red Sox +100
Under Cards 8
Tigers Gm2 -153

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Sports Cash System

extra bonus system for today:

Kansas City Royals -115 over the Texas Rangers (Bet Level 1) (Money Line Bet) (MLB Baseball) - Game Starts at 8:05 PM EST

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Indian Cowboy
WNBA
4* under 156 SA/MIN

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Kyle Hunter
MLB
Seattle
San Diego

Exodus to Black
MLB
Boston-122

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Gilz

[979] CLE/HOU U7.5 (-110)
[964] PHI/STL U8 (-110)
[978] TEX/KC U9 (+100)
[972] MIN/DET "GM 2" U9 (+105)

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Maddux

NFL

10* Washington/Baltimore over 43.5

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Behind The Bets

Phillies

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Ultra Sports

NFLX

SAINT LOUIS
Baltimore

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Wayne root
perfect play
nflx game of year
colts

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charlie sports

san diego over 7.5
colorado under 11
colts under 47

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TOM BARTON
2* Milwaukee vs Pittsburgh – Under 8.5

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double play sports
mets

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NELLY
Royals vs Rangers – Under 9

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Jeff Clement

8* Baltimore -107

10* Cleveland -150

8* St. Louis -122

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Topshelfpicks

Carson K

Cubs +103
Rangers +102
Phillies +114

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PhillyGodFather

Rams +3

Red Sox +105
Cards/Phils under 8 (EVEN)

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Dwayne Bryant

CLIENT PLAYS

7:05 pm ET

MLB

#953-954 UNDER 8 St. Louis at Philadelphia

List Miller & Buchanan

2 Units (Regular-sized bet)
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8:05 pm ET

MLB

#977-978 UNDER 9 +100 Kansas City at Texas

List Guthrie & Tepesch

2 Units (Regular-sized bet)

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Maddux Sports

10* Philly +100

10* Pitts. +123
10* San Fran/Wash under 7.5 -122

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James jones

2u redskins +2.5