Thursday 8-9-18 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

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[swaminator]

Marc Lawrence NFLX Free Play! - Thursday
Play - Cincinnati Bengals (Game 254).
Edges - Bengals : 6-2 SUATS Home One of the preseason; and revenge from 33-7 loss as 6-point favorites during the regular season last year … Bears: 3-7 ATS Game One preseason. With that we recommend a 1* play on Cincinnati. Thank you and good luck as always.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Browns vs. Giants Preview and Predictions in NFL

NFL Previews 6th August 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 08/06/2018

Thursday night's pre-season NFL slate brings together the teams that had the first two picks in the draft.

One of the teams, the Cleveland Browns, aren't looking for something from their top pick, the #1 overall, until some point down the road. The other team, the New York Giants, not only expect returns immediately from their rookie, they are hoping that he will be a transformative player for them.

Both franchises could use a turnaround. But the Browns are the side that went winless last season. They posted the second 0-16 ledger in league history (4-12 against the number), then went about making some adjustments to their front office, bringing in John Dorsey, who had been the general manager with the Kansas City Chiefs. They've also made several player acquisitions that have fans looking forward with genuine optimism.

The Giants made the playoffs in 2016, then saw things go all the way downhill last year, with a 3-13 record (7-9 ATS). Ben McAdoo went from an offensive guru to someone who "lost the locker room," and an injury to Odell Beckham Jr. did not help. The unthinkable even happened, as Eli Manning took a seat for one game. Nothing was managed well, and Dave Gettleman, the former GM in Carolina, has taken control, even as he is involved in a battle with cancer.

The pre-season opener for both teams takes place on Thursday night at 7 PM ET at MetLife Stadium in the Meadowlands.

TV: 7 PM ET, NFL Network. LINE: Giants -2.5. O/U: 34.5

ABOUT THE BROWNS: Hue Jackson was retained as head coach, and even though Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield was the #1 pick in the draft, he is adamant that Tyrod Taylor, acquired from Buffalo, is his quarterback of the here and now. The receiver corps may be a little thin, as Corey Coleman was traded to Buffalo, and Josh Gordon has been in Florida, receiving treatment for anxiety and substance abuse issues. The team made a bold off-season move in picking up Jarvis Landry, who was the NFL's leading pass-catcher with the Miami Dolphins last year, and they are impressed with what they've seen out of fourth-round draft pick Antonio Callaway. There has been a lingering question as to who is going to protect the quarterback's blind side, with All-Pro Joe Thomas having retired. Shon Coleman was slated for the left tackle role, but he has stumbled in camp, so Joel Bitonio has been moved outside from guard, with rookie Austin Corbett stepping into the void he left. Jackson is mourning the loss of his mother and brother, both of whom have passed away in the last two weeks.



ABOUT THE GIANTS: Saquon Barkley, the rookie running back from Penn State, has the potential to completely change the Giants' offense, because of the fact that he can line up in the backfield, split out wide, or go in the slot. As for Beckham, he appears to be healthy less than a year after breaking his ankle, but he is very interested in getting together with the team on a long-term contract. He is "optimistic" that will happen, and even though it is not inked just yet, he is still participating in training camp drills. There are a lot of eyes on Evan Engram in camp. The Giants' second-year tight end led the team with 64 catches last year, but also dropped eleven, more than anyone else at his position. New head coach Pat Shurmur is doing some shuffling around on the offensive line for the spots that have not been solidified. Nate Solder is now installed at left tackle, and rookie Will Hernandez is at one of the guard positions. But right tackle could be a mess, as Ereck Flowers is lacking, John Jerry may not fit in, and other options are shaky. Backup tackles Chad Wheeler and Nick Becton have reportedly not looked good in drills. Cornerback depth is also an area where there has been a great deal of uncertainty. There is a revolving door of guys in and out of camp, and everyone, including special teams ace Michael Thomas, seems to be battling for the free safety job.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Shurmur was the head coach of the Browns in 2011 and 2012, compiling a 9-23 record. He has brought Mike Shula, son of Hall of Famer Don Shula, aboard as the offensive coordinator.

2. The Browns, despite their 0-16 regular season record, were 4-0, both straight-up and against the spread, in the pre-season slate last year. In 2016, however, they were 0-4 SU and ATS in exhibition games.

3. For the Giants, Davis Webb is the backup QB, with heady rookie Kyle Lauletta (Richmond) also in the queue, and the team just signed Alex Tanney, who is with his eighth different team and, unlike Webb or Lauletta, has actually thrown some regular season NFL passes (14, to be exact).

PREDICTION: Browns 17, Giants 16

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Steelers vs. Eagles Preview and Predictions in NFL

NFL Previews 6th August 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 08/06/2018

The Pittsburgh Steelers are transitioning a little, and they know, that to make another trip back to the Super Bowl, not only will they have to overcome a formidable bunch like the New England Patriots, but also the Jacksonville Jaguars, who beat them twice last season, including a playoff game.

For the Philadelphia Eagles, the challenge is a bit different, because they are the defending Super Bowl champions, and thus, they have a target on their backs. There are several teams in the NFC, including the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, who like to think they have improved themselves enough to mount a charge for the conference title.

Preseason NFL Previews and Predictions

And then there is that matter of whether Philadelphia's quarterback will be ready for the regular season.

This "Battle of Pennsylvania" is slated to take place at 7 PM ET on Thursday night at Lincoln Financial Field in the City of Brotherly Love.

TV: Local coverage, NFL Network (Replay). LINE: Eagles -3 O/U: 35

ABOUT THE STEELERS: Offensive coordinator Todd Haley has left for the same position with the Cleveland Browns, and so Randy Fichtner was elevated from quarterback coach to the coordinator job. His rapport with Ben Roethlisberger is excellent, but there are some observers who wonder whether there is enough healthy "friction" to really create a great dynamic, as there was with Haley. That won't be a big factor here, as Landry Jones is likely to make the start in this first pre-season game. Jones was 25-for-37 with one touchdown pass in last year's pre-season, and 41 of 59 (68.5%) with four INT's in the 2016 exhibition slate. He's got five NFL regular season starts. This will also be the coming-out party for Mason Rudolph, the former Oklahoma State quarterback who may find himself on the field to throw passes to former college teammate James Washington, who was a second-round draft pick and had 4,462 receiving yards in his OSU career. Joshua Dobbs is another quarterback on hand; this dual threat had 38 completions in 64 attempts with six sacks and a rushing touchdown in the 2017 pre-season. If you were hoping to see running back Le'Veon Bell in this game, forget it. The rushing-receiving star, who had 1946 yards from scrimmage last season, has been given the franchise tag and is not expected to sign his tender until right before the regular season opener.



ABOUT THE EAGLES: The official word on Carson Wentz is that the Eagles are being cautious with him. The quarterback, who suffered a season-ending knee injury not long before the Eagles made their Super Bowl run, has not been participating in 11-on-11 drills and it is a real possibility that he won't play at all in the pre-season. He's insisted that he could be ready for Week 1 even without any pre-season snaps. Nick Foles, who proved himself to be more than just an insurance policy as he rambled to the Super Bowl MVP award, may not see a lot of pre-season action either. Nate Sudfeld, who was 33-of-56 in the 2017 pre-season, as well as Joe Callahan, a South Jersey kid (Cape May Courthouse) who is with his fourth NFL team, and won a roster spot with Green Bay in 2016 with a strong pre-season (54-of-88, 3 TD's). Offensive coordinator Mike Groh, who took the place of Frank Reich (now the head coach for Indianapolis) says that left tackle Jason Peters, a nine-time Pro Bowler who had both ACL and MCL surgery, is looking as good as ever and that the knee is a "non-issue" right now. Sidney Jones, who came in the second round of the 2017 draft from the University of Washington, missed all of training camp last year, but he is turning heads and may have a chance to snag one of the starting cornerback spots. In his two years as an NFL head coach, Doug Pederson is 6-2 straight-up and 5-3 against the spread in the pre-season.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Pittsburgh linebacker Bud Dupree was recently removed from practice and had to be placed in the concussion protocol. The fourth-year pro out of Kentucky was a first-round draft pick in 2015.

2. Callahan played his college ball at Wesley, a Division II school in Delaware, and was the first D-3 quarterback to top 5000 passing yards for a season. That brought him the Gagliardi Trophy, which is Division III's equivalent of the Heisman.

3. Joshua Dobbs may be fighting for a spot on the Steelers' roster, but he doesn't have any problem digesting the schematics of the team's playbook. Dobbs graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in aerospace engineering and a 4.0 grade-point average.

PREDICTION: Steelers 20, Eagles 17

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Redskins vs. Patriots Preview and Predictions in NFL

NFL Previews 6th August 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 08/06/2018

The Washington Redskins have gone through much of the last two seasons wondering who their quarterback was going to be in 2018, because of the uncertainty surrounding Kirk Cousins and his pending free agency. Ultimately, they didn't prevent Cousins from going and signing for the big, big bucks with the Minnesota Vikings, and may have actually upgraded themselves at the QB spot.

The New England Patriots didn't need any quarterback upgrades, although they may, in time, be sorry that they traded Jimmy Garoppolo away to San Francisco. When will the defending AFC champions have to go through that "transitional" phase? Well, probably not as long as Tom Brady is the starter behind center.

These teams are set to meet up in Thursday night NFL pre-season action, kicking off at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA.

TV: 7:30 PM ET, Local coverage and NFL Network (Replay). LINE: Patriots -3. O/U: 37

ABOUT THE REDSKINS: Washington, which was 7-9, both straight-up and against the number, in the 2017 season, made a deal with Kansas City to bring Alex Smith aboard. He should fit just fine into Jay Gruden's offense. And he led the NFL in passing efficiency last season. Cousins got his 4000 yards last year but what he did was not altogether inspiring without guru Sean McVay running the offense. One of the things people have noticed is that Smith developed chemistry very quickly with Josh Doctson, a former first-round pick who has not realized his upside yet, and Paul Richardson, a new acquisition who has come over form the Seattle Seahawks. Colt McCoy and Kevin Hogan are the other quarterbacks on the depth chart. There is a battle at the running back spot, as Rob Kelley wants to be the featured guy. That task is going to be difficult, as the Redskins feel they drafted a first-round talent when they got Derrius Guice with the 59th overall pick. Guice had a bump interview process and was slapped with a "questionable character" tag, which caused him to slip. But a number of people believe he's even better than Leonard Fournette, his LSU teammate who went to Jacksonville in the first round last season. Let's not forget Samaje Perine, the Oklahoma product who once set the one-game NCAA record for rushing yards but was very flat as a rookie. The Redskins are priced at +425 to win the NFC East, which puts them behind the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. They are also +5500 to win the Super Bowl.



ABOUT THE PATRIOTS: One of the things the Pats (13-3 SU, 7-9 ATS last season) wanted to address during this training camp was the left tackle position since Nate Solder departed for the New York Giants. They have two candidates for the spot in first-round pick Isaiah Wynn and Trent Brown, who was acquired from San Francisco. There had been some anxiety at the wide receiver position for some Patriots fans, as Julian Edelman is suspended for the first four games, while Danny Amendola and Brandin Cooks left for other teams. Jordan Matthews, who came from Buffalo in the off-season, injured his hamstring and was cut. So was Malcolm Mitchell, who missed last year with a knee injury. So newcomers will have to carry some of the load. One of them, Cordarelle Patterson, has been to the Pro Bowl before, but as a kick returner. Phillip Dorsett, who the Pats acquired on the eve of the 2017 season, is in his first camp with the team. Braxton Berrios, a sixth-round pick, could be a real sleeper, as he is a "smurf" in the Edelman/Amendola mold. Eric Decker, the veteran who can still be useful, was just signed. As usual, Brady is expected to make it work, regardless of who his set of receivers is. Sony Michel, a first-round pick out of Georgia, has been struggling with a knee problem, which happened to be a concern on the part of some teams when he was being scouted. The report is that he should be ready for the start of the season, but he will miss at least a couple of these pre-season contests. The Patriots are the Super Bowl favorites this season at +600 and they are -625 to win the AFC East.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Redskin left tackle Trent Williams, who has been named to six Pro Bowls but is coming off knee surgery, is in camp and doing just fine. However, Gruden has termed him "doubtful" for this particular game.

2. In four seasons as an NFL head coach, Gruden has posted a straight-up record of 11-5 and an ATS mark of 10-6 in the pre-season. Belichick is 49-44 straight-up and 43-43-6 ATS.

3. After finishing next to last in the NFL in third-down conversions last season, Gruden decided that he would institute more contact in practices early on, in order to make things more physical than they have usually been in his camps.

PREDICTION: Washington 20, Patriots 17

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Cowboys vs. 49ers Preview and Predictions in NFL

NFL Previews 7th August 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 08/07/2018

Things looked pretty dismal for the San Francisco 49ers nine games into the 2017 season, as they were still looking for their first victory. They had been fortunate enough to be able to swing a deal with the New England Patriots to acquire Jimmy Garoppolo, who looked very much like the guy Tom Brady was going to pass the torch to when he hung the cleats up. But Garoppolo was entering the final year of his rookie contract and was not necessarily patient. He found a new home, studied the playbook carefully, entered the lineup, and the Niners have not lost since.

That's why there is so much optimism around camp this summer. The 49ers won the last five games of the season with Jimmy G taking snaps, and then he signed a long-term deal to stick around. Team management, which includes former All-Pro safety John Lynch, dedicated much of the off-season to giving their quarterback more weaponry to work with. And there are a number of people expecting this team to at least be in the running for a wild-card spot.

National Football League Preseason Previews and Predictions

The Dallas Cowboys may have been involved in the post-season had they not had to endure the six-game suspension of star running back Ezekiel Elliott. They have had to say goodbye to veteran tight end Jason Witten. And they are still dealing with the controversy that resulted from releasing wide receiver Dez Bryant. But they are excited about some of their additions and hope that they have enough defense to complement the ground attack and a passing game that may rely quite a bit on newcomers.

The 49ers and Cowboys will meet up on Thursday night at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, in the pre-season opener for both teams.

TV: 10 PM ET. NFL Network. LINE: Niners -3.5 O/U: 35

ABOUT THE COWBOYS: With the departure of Bryant, Dallas, which was 9-7 straight-up and 8-7-1 against the number last season, is in the process of sorting itself out at wide receiver. Allen Burns was a productive pass-catcher with Jacksonville - when healthy. Lately, he's been dealing with a strained groin. Deonte Thompson, another free agent pickup, is sidelined. The Cowboys are hoping that third-round pick Michael Gallup out of Colorado State can catch on quickly. They are encouraged at what they have seen so far out of Tavon Austin, who was employed as a hybrid running back/wide receiver by the Rams but has underachieved as a wideout in his NFL career. Somewhere in all of this, they hope to find answers. The Cowboys are still unsure as to how they will use third-year linebacker Jaylon Smith, but they will use him nonetheless. Smith, who hurt his knee in his final collegiate game for Notre Dame but got picked in the first round anyway, sat out a season, then came back rather slowly last year. But this season defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli may elect to blitz more, and Smith says that is a very natural way for him to be deployed. The Cowboys are priced at +375 to win the NFC East and +2000 to win Super Bowl 53.



ABOUT THE NINERS: San Francisco, which ended the season 6-10 straight-up and 10-6 against the number, has had to fiddle around with its offensive line and so it is not a finished product yet. But rookie right tackle Mike McGlinchey, the first-round pick out of Notre Dame, looks like he may be a fixture for years to come. However, it has been noted that he has some ground to make up when it comes to pass blocking. Losing Carlos Hyde out of the backfield was not tragic, as far as head coach Kyle Shanahan was concerned. He liked Jarick McKinnon enough to make the former Minnesota Viking the third highest-paid running back in the league. And when you're paying that kind of money, it's not for a "situational" performer. And there have been raves about the athleticism of the second-round draft pick, wide receiver Dante Pettis of Washington. The most notable addition to the defense is, of course, Richard Sherman, the former All-Pro cornerback who was with the Seattle Seahawks, and saw his 2017 campaign ended with an injury to his Achilles tendon. The jury is still out on him, though; he's been burned a few times in camp and is now sidelined for at least another week with a hamstring injury. The Niners are priced at +200 to win the NFC West and +1750 to emerge victorious in the Super Bowl.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Niners defensive coordinator Robert Saleh has mentioned that the tackling technique he has been teaching his players, going back to last year, will give them the edge when it comes to staying clean with regard to the NFL's new helmet rule. I’ve been exposed to it for the last eight years. "People in the rugby world have tackled without helmets for years and we’ve been teaching that style of tackling..."

2. One of the reserve quarterbacks to keep an eye on is rookie Mike White, who threw for over 8500 yards the last two seasons at Western Kentucky before being taken by Dallas in the fifth round. There were some scouts who thought he might eventually become a starter in the NFL.

3. San Francisco linebacker Reuben Foster, their first-round pick in the 2017 Draft, is suspended for the first two regular-season games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, but he is eligible to practice and take part in pre-season games.

PREDICTION: 49ers 17, Cowboys 10

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Edmonton Eskimos vs. BC Lions Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in CFL

CFL Previews 6th August 2018 by Gracenote
by Gracenote on 08/06/2018

The visiting Edmonton Eskimos look to extend their winning streak to four games when they face the BC Lions on Thursday. The Eskimos were able to grind out a 26-19 victory against Saskatchewan Roughriders to stay within striking distance of the first-place Calgary Stampeders and hope to continue their winning ways by knocking off the Lions for the fifth consecutive time.

Edmonton has won six straight games against West Division rivals, including a 41-22 victory against BC in Week 3, and can pull within two points of the unbeaten Stampeders with another victory. BC dropped its fourth consecutive road game following a 27-18 defeat to Calgary in Week 8 to remain in the West Division basement. The Lions have lost 10 of their last 14 games against division rivals since the start of the 2017 season and hope to avoid falling further out of the playoff picture by beating the Eskimos for the first time since a 26-23 victory on Aug.6, 2015. "We can't wallow on this loss," BC quarterback Travis Lulay told reporters. "We have to make a focused effort to be better."

TV: 10 p.m. ET, TSN, ESPN2

ABOUT THE ESKIMOS (5-2): Mike Reilly threw for a season-low 257 yards and a touchdown against Saskatchewan, but moved past Bernie Foley (24,264) for 20th place on the CFL's all-time passing list with 24,383. "I missed a fair amount of throws that I normally hit and that made the game tougher than it could have been," Reilly admitted to reporters. "It was a game where our mental toughness was tested and we made the plays we had to." Derel Walker had a big night as he caught six passes for 154 yards and a touchdown against the Roughriders while Duke Williams was limited to two catches for 41 yards to see his streak of consecutive 100-yard receiving games end at five in a row.

ABOUT THE LIONS (2-4): Jeremiah Johnson rushed for 50 yards and a touchdown against the Stampeders after missing the previous game with an ankle issue while backup running backs Chris Rainey (ankle) and Brandon Rutley (knee) sat out because of injury. Bryan Burnham hauled in seven passes for 76 yards and his first touchdown of the season while Manny Arceneaux finished with three receptions for 53 yards against Calgary to surpass 8,000 receiving yards for his career (8,002). Travon Van racked up 180 return yards on his season debut after missing the first five games while taking care of his ailing mother in San Diego.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Edmonton has won seven of the last eight meetings with BC.

2. Reilly leads the league in passing yards (2,320) and total touchdowns (20).

3. The Lions have failed to score more than 20 points in three of their last four games.

PREDICTION: Lions 30, Eskimos 27

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 8th August 2018 by Gracenote
Braves vs. Nationals Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/08/2018

Ronald Acuna arrived in the majors as one of the most heralded prospects in recent memory, and the Atlanta Braves outfielder enters Thursday's series finale at the Washington Nationals off the biggest performance of his young big-league career. Acuna displayed the tools that made scouts salivate in Wednesday's 8-3 victory, outrunning a pickoff throw for a stolen base, belting a 452-foot homer and snagging Matt Adams' would-be homer at the top of the center field fence.


The Braves have captured two of the first three contests in the series, pulling within one-half game of Philadelphia for first place in the National League East as Charlie Culberson belted his third homer of the series and his fifth of the year against the Nationals. Washington entered the series as winners of eight of 11 contests, but wakes up Thursday sitting 5 ½ games behind the Braves in the division and desperate to salvage a series split. Outfielder Bryce Harper lined his 28th homer into the left-field seats in the sixth for the Nationals, and enters the series finale hitting .339 with five homers and 17 RBIs since the All-Star break. Washington third baseman Anthony Rendon collected three hits Wednesday and is batting .317 in his past nine games.

TV: 1:05 p.m. ET, Facebook-Watch

PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Anibal Sanchez (6-3, 2.89 ERA) vs. Nationals LH Gio Gonzalez (6-8, 4.04)

Sanchez is one of the reasons the Braves are contending for a playoff spot, considering the spring-training signee enters Thursday with the lowest WHIP (1.06) and third-lowest ERA of his 13-year career. The 34-year-old held the New York Mets to one run on two hits over six innings Friday with a season-high nine strikeouts - the sixth-consecutive start he has worked at least six frames. Sanchez is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in three appearances (two starts) against the Nationals in 2018.

Gonzalez, a steady piece of the Nationals rotation since 2012, has struggled mightily since beginning the season 6-2. The 32-year-old is winless in his past 11 starts, posting a 6.37 ERA with nine homers allowed in 53 2/3 innings, and opponents are hitting .303 with a .871 OPS in that span. Gonzalez is 5-11 with a 5.04 ERA lifetime against the Braves, and gave up three runs with nine strikeouts over seven innings in his lone appearance against Atlanta this season.

WALK-OFFS

1. After scoring eight runs in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader, the Nationals are 1-for-21 with runners in scoring position the past two games with 18 runners left on base.

2. Atlanta 1B Freddie Freeman drove in a run with a seventh-inning single and is hitting .325 during his 10-game hitting streak.

3. Washington placed RHP Kelvin Herrera (right rotator cuff impingement) on the disabled list Wednesday and recalled RHP Koda Glover from Triple-A Syracuse.

PREDICTION: Braves 6, Nationals 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Minnesota Twins vs. Cleveland Indians Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 8th August 2018 by Gracenote
Twins vs. Indians Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/08/2018

Francisco Lindor has another highlight to add to an already memorable season and looks to finish off a red-hot series with a big effort when his Cleveland Indians host the Minnesota Twins on Thursday afternoon for the finale of their four-game set. Lindor launched a three-run, walk-off homer in the ninth inning Wednesday to give the American League Central-leading Indians a 5-2 victory and is 6-for-14 with two blasts in the series.

The All-Star shortstop is riding a six-game hitting streak during which he has gone 10-for-25 and is one shot shy of recording back-to-back 30-homer campaigns after improving his season average to .297 with his fourth straight two-hit performance. Corey Kluber, who is 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA in 13 home starts this year, looks to toss his second straight shutout when he takes the mound for Cleveland against Minnesota ace Jose Berrios on Thursday. The Twins have won eight of 15 meetings with the Indians this season but sit 10 games back in the AL Central after going 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position on Wednesday. Miguel Sano homered and doubled for Minnesota in the setback and is 10-for-29 with six walks, four RBIs and seven runs scored over his last nine contests.

TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, FS North (Minnesota), SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Jose Berrios (11-8, 3.51 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (14-6, 2.63)

Berrios has posted four quality starts in his last six outings, including Saturday's turn in which he limited Kansas City to two runs over seven innings en route to victory. The 24-year-old Puerto Rican has permitted fewer than three runs in seven of his last 11 outings, going 5-3 with eight quality starts in that stretch. Edwin Encarnacion is just 1-for-9 but has homered against Berrios, who is 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in two starts versus Cleveland this year.

Kluber registered his first shutout of the season and the seventh of his career on Saturday, when he held the Los Angeles Angels to three hits and one walk with seven strikeouts. The 32-year-old native of Alabama has given up one run over 16 1/3 innings in his last two starts after going winless in the previous three. Joe Mauer is 16-for-54 with two homers and five doubles versus Kluber, who is 9-6 with a 3.36 ERA in 21 career starts against the Twins.

WALK-OFFS

1. Minnesota INF Logan Forsythe is 9-for-20 with three RBIs during his six-game hitting streak after going 0-for-1 in his team debut on Aug. 1.

2. Cleveland CF Leonys Martin, who has gone 5-for-15 with two homers since being acquired from Detroit, sat out Wednesday due to illness.

3. Twins MGR Paul Molitor needs one win to pass Frank Quilici (280) for fifth place on the club's all-time list.

PREDICTION: Indians 4, Twins 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

San Diego Padres vs. Milwaukee Brewers Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 9th August 2018 by Gracenote
Padres vs. Brewers Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/09/2018

The Milwaukee Brewers are coming off a stellar power display as they look to win the rubber match of their three-game series against the visiting San Diego Padres on Thursday afternoon. Five different players homered - tying a franchise record - as the Brewers recorded an 8-4 victory on Wednesday.

Jesus Aguilar, Travis Shaw and Eric Thames hit consecutive homers in the first inning while Orlando Arcia and Christian Yelich went deep later in the contest as Milwaukee climbed within 1 1/2 games of the first-place Chicago Cubs in the National League Central. Aguilar has homered in each of the first two games of the series and is tied for third in the National League with 28 blasts. San Diego is 3-3 entering the finale of its seven-game road trip and has scored 27 runs in the three triumphs. Hunter Renfroe has homered in three straight contests for the Padres and is 9-for-25 during his six-game hitting streak.

TV: 2:10 p.m. ET, FS San Diego, FS Wisconsin (Milwaukee)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres LH Robbie Erlin (2-3, 3.34 ERA) vs. Brewers RH Junior Guerra (6-7, 3.42)

Erlin is making his second straight start and fourth of the campaign. The 27-year-old defeated the Cubs on August 2 as he gave up one run and two hits over five innings. Erlin allowed two runs and three hits in 3 2/3 innings of relief against the Brewers on March 31 in his lone career appearance versus the club.

Guerra has gone 0-2 with a 6.14 ERA while serving up five home runs over this last four turns. The 33-year-old won three straight outings prior to the funk and is holding opponents to a .233 batting average this season. Guerra is 1-1 with a 3.94 ERA in three career starts versus the Padres.

WALK-OFFS

1. Padres 1B Eric Hosmer is mired in an 18-game home-run drought.

2. Milwaukee CF Lorenzo Cain has recorded two or more hits in all five games versus San Diego this season, going 12-for-24 with six runs scored, four stolen bases, four doubles and three RBIs.

3. San Diego is expected to recall RHP Jacob Nix to start Friday's game against Philadelphia.

PREDICTION: Brewers 7, Padres 5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Texas Rangers vs. New York Yankees Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 9th August 2018 by Gracenote
Rangers vs. Yankees Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/09/2018

The New York Yankees recovered nicely from a disastrous series against their bitter rivals and hope to continue trending in the right direction when they host the Texas Rangers on Thursday for the opener of their four-game series. After enduring a four-game sweep in Boston, the Yankees traveled to Chicago and reversed their fortunes, taking all three meetings with the White Sox.

Giancarlo Stanton highlighted a six-run second inning with his sixth career grand slam - and first since April 18, 2014 while with Miami - as New York rolled to a 7-3 victory on Wednesday. Stanton recorded only three hits in the series against Chicago, but two were home runs for the American League wild card-leading Yankees, who are nine games behind the Red Sox in the AL East. Texas is coming off its ninth win in 12 games, an 11-7 triumph over Seattle on Wednesday that featured a 19-hit attack - with every player in the lineup recording at least one. Joey Gallo was one of three Rangers to collect three hits as he went deep twice for his seventh career multi-homer performance and third this season.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS Southwest (Texas), YES (New York)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers RH Ariel Jurado (2-1, 4.02 ERA) vs. Yankees LH J.A. Happ (11-6, 4.05)

Jurado seeks his third consecutive victory as he makes his fourth major-league start after being recalled from Double-A Frisco. The 22-year-old Panamanian allowed two runs and six hits over five innings against Baltimore on Friday after limiting host Houston to one run and two hits in six frames on July 28. Jurado has made 16 starts for the RoughRiders this season, going 5-3 with one complete game - a shutout - and a 3.28 ERA.

Happ is expected to return from the disabled list, where he landed after contracting hand, foot and mouth disease, to make his second start since being acquired from Toronto. The 35-year-old native of Illinois was superb in his debut with the Yankees on July 29, allowing one run - a solo homer - and three hits over six innings in a win over Kansas City. Happ is 4-2 with a 2.97 ERA in six career starts versus Texas after giving up two runs and five hits over seven frames in a victory on April 29 while with the Blue Jays.

WALK-OFFS

1. Rangers SS Elvis Andrus is riding a 19-game hitting streak during which he has gone 29-for-84 with six doubles, two triples, two homers and 12 RBIs.

2. Stanton is three homers away from reaching 30 for the fifth time in his nine major-league seasons.

3. Texas OF Nomar Mazara (thumb) is expected to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock on Thursday.

PREDICTION: Yankees 7, Rangers 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Boston Red Sox vs. Toronto Blue Jays Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 9th August 2018 by Gracenote
by Gracenote on 08/09/2018

The Boston Red Sox have a chance to pick up their second straight sweep and 12th overall when they wrap up a three-game set at the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday. After a stirring four-game sweep of the rival New York Yankees at home, the Red Sox have produced 20 runs, 21 hits and 13 walks while claiming the first two games in Toronto.

Rafael Devers homered in his return from the disabled list and J.D. Martinez added to his American League-leading hits total (138) with three more and an RBI in Wednesday's 10-5 triumph. Xander Bogaerts chipped in three RBIs for first-place Boston, which improved to 39-19 on the road, 55-7 when scoring first and 58-9 when scoring at least five runs, something it has done four times during its six-game winning streak. Justin Smoak has been one of the Blue Jays' few bright spots of late and he had three hits Wednesday to extend his hitting streak to 12, the longest streak by a Toronto player this year. Rick Porcello is coming off his 10th career complete game and will try to duplicate the performance when he gets the start for the Red Sox on Thursday opposite lefty Ryan Borucki.

TV: 7:07 p.m. ET, NESN (Boston), Sportsnet (Toronto)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox RH Rick Porcello (14-4, 3.84 ERA) vs. Blue Jays LH Ryan Borucki (1-2, 2.30)

Porcello limited the Yankees to one hit - a solo home run - while striking out nine in his dominant win at home Friday night. He is 3-0 with a 2.18 ERA in three starts since he was lit up by Toronto (eight runs in two innings) at Fenway Park on July 13. That continued Porcello's career-long struggles versus the Blue Jays, against whom he has a 5.26 ERA in 24 games (23 starts).

Borucki has not allowed an earned run in two of his last three starts, including an eight-inning gem at Seattle on Friday. He has an ERA of 0.90 over the three-start stretch, during which the 24-year-old has walked just one batter in 20 innings. The surge began after Borucki gave up seven runs (four earned) in three frames opposite Porcello last month in Boston.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Red Sox optioned INF Tony Renda to Triple-A Pawtucket to make room for Devers.

2. Smoak is batting .353 during his 12-game hitting streak.

3. Martinez is 13-for-28 with two homers and nine RBIs during a seven-game hitting streak.

PREDICTION: Red Sox 6, Blue Jays 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Baltimore Orioles vs. Tampa Bay Rays Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 9th August 2018 by Gracenote
Orioles vs. Rays Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/09/2018

Mark Trumbo has stepped up since trades took two major threats from the Baltimore Orioles' lineup, and the 32-year-old slugger looks to extend his hitting streak to 11 games Thursday in the rubber match of the three-game series against the host Tampa Bay Rays. Trumbo has gone 15-for-40 with four homers and 13 RBIs during his streak, most of it without the traded Jonathan Schoop in the lineup and all of it since star Manny Machado was dealt.

Trumbo joined Adam Jones and Tim Beckham in going deep Wednesday before the Orioles rallied for two runs in the ninth inning to post a 5-4 victory that evened the set at a win apiece and gave them an 8-7 lead in the season series. Rookie David Hess has allowed three runs over 13 2/3 innings against the Rays this year, notching his only two wins, and will take the mound Thursday opposite Tampa Bay reliever Hunter Wood. The Rays have dropped four of their last five contests - all by a single run - and left the potential tying run on third base in the ninth inning to fall back to .500. Tampa Bay's Joey Wendle recorded a pair of hits Wednesday and is 8-for-20 with four RBIs this month.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, MASN (Baltimore), FS Sun (Tampa Bay)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Orioles RH David Hess (2-6, 6.41 ERA) vs. Rays RH Hunter Wood (0-0, 3.22)

Hess is winless in his last nine outings, including Friday's loss at Texas in which he surrendered seven runs - five earned - and six hits over 3 1/3 innings. The 25-year-old native of Tennessee won two of his first three starts this season but is 0-5 with a 7.50 ERA during his winless streak. Wendle is 4-for-5 and Matt Duffy has homered versus Hess, who has gone 1-3 with a 6.61 ERA on the road during his rookie campaign.

Wood will open the game with an inning or two for the sixth time this year after permitting one run on two hits and two walks over 1 2/3 frames in that role Wednesday against the Chicago White Sox. The 24-year-old from Arkansas has posted a 2.16 ERA over 8 1/3 innings in his first five starts, giving up eight hits while registering 15 strikeouts. Austin Wynns homered on July 29 against Wood, who has yielded two runs over 3 1/3 frames versus the Orioles this year.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Rays have played the most one-run games in the majors this season, going 21-27 in those contests.

2. Jones, who is just 5-for-24 with one RBI this month, needs one double to reach 300 with the Orioles.

3. Tampa Bay OF Mallex Smith has gone 6-for-13 over his last three contests to raise his average to .298.

PREDICTION: Rays 6, Orioles 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Seattle Mariners vs. Houston Astros Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 8th August 2018 by Gracenote
Mariners vs. Astros Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/08/2018

The Houston Astros essentially have run roughshod over the competition in their quest to repeat as World Series champions, however the American League West front-runners have failed to solve the mystery that is Seattle Mariners left-hander James Paxton. "The Big Maple" carries a 3-0 mark with a slim 0.87 ERA in three starts against the host Astros this season into the opener of a four-game series on Thursday.

Seattle surely could benefit from some solid pitching after surrendering 11 runs in back-to-back losses to Texas to fall to 2-7 in its last nine outings. Mike Zunino went deep twice in Wednesday's 11-7 loss to give him three homers among his five hits with four runs scored in his last two contests, although he is 0-for-10 with seven strikeouts versus Thursday starter Justin Verlander. Houston received sterling pitching performances in all eight contests of its just-completed road trip, with wins in six of its last seven overall. The Astros are also flexing their muscles at the plate, with 13 homers in their last eight games - including Tyler White's two-run shot in the eighth inning of a 2-1 victory at San Francisco on Tuesday.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, MLB Network, ROOT Northwest (Seattle), AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH James Paxton (9-5, 3.51 ERA) vs. Astros RH Justin Verlander (11-6, 2.19)

Paxton silenced the Astros at Safeco Field on July 30, surrendering three hits while striking out eight over seven solid innings in a 2-0 win to improve to 6-3 with a 2.59 ERA in his career versus Houston. The 29-year-old British Columbia native has permitted 15 hits with 21 strikeouts against four walks in 20 2/3 frames against the Astros this season. Paxton fell to 1-3 in his last four starts despite yielding three runs on eight hits in seven innings of a 5-1 setback versus Toronto on Saturday.

Verlander is bidding for his 200th career win on the heels of matching his career high with 14 strikeouts while allowing one run on four hits in 7 2/3 innings of Friday's 2-1 triumph at the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young Award winner has surrendered two or fewer runs in three straight starts and five of his last six. Verlander will be making his first start this season versus Seattle, against which he owns a 12-8 mark with a 3.01 ERA in 24 career starts.

WALK-OFFS

1. Houston LF Marwin Gonzalez, who has gone deep four times in his last six outings overall, is 9-for-28 with two homers and five RBIs versus Seattle this season.

2. Mariners RHP Sam Tuivailala strained his right Achilles tendon while attempting to execute a rundown on Wednesday.

3. Astros SS Carlos Correa, who has been sidelined since late June with a lower-back injury, is expected to be activated for this series, per manager A.J. Hinch.

PREDICTION: Astros 5, Mariners 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Colorado Rockies Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 9th August 2018 by Gracenote
Dodgers vs. Rockies Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/09/2018

The Colorado Rockies aim to break out of their funk when they open a pivotal four-game series against the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday. The Rockies have dropped six of their past eight games and reside in third place in the National League West while Los Angeles stands a half-game behind the division-leading Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Dodgers fell out the top spot with Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the Oakland Athletics while the Rockies lost 4-3 to the Pittsburgh Pirates to drop three games behind the Diamondbacks. Los Angeles is struggling offensively with 10 runs in the past five games after setting season-highs with 21 runs and seven homers in a win against the Milwaukee Brewers on Aug. 2. Dodgers catcher Yasmani Grandal hit a solo shot in Wednesday's loss to reach at least 20 homers for the third consecutive campaign. Colorado also is having troubles tallying runs as it has scored three or fewer in 11 of the past 16 games, including each of the past three outings.

TV: 8:40 p.m. ET, MLB Network; SportsNet LA (Los Angeles), AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain (Colorado)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers RH Ross Stripling (8-3, 2.68 ERA) vs. Rockies LH Tyler Anderson (6-4, 4.05)

Stripling (right big toe) will be activated off the 10-day disabled list to make the start and will look to recapture his earlier form. The 28-year-old was a first-time All-Star because of his stellar 2.08 ERA but was 0-1 with a 9.35 ERA in two starts after the break before going on the DL. Stripling gave up four runs and nine hits over six innings in a no-decision against the Rockies on July 1 and stands 1-1 with a 2.88 ERA in 10 career appearances (three starts) versus Colorado.

Anderson served up three homers and allowed seven runs (matching a season worst) and seven hits over four innings while falling to the Milwaukee Brewers in his last turn. The 28-year-old was unbeaten (2-0) over his previous six starts and gave up four earned runs over the first five. Anderson is 1-0 with a 3.46 ERA in two starts against the Dodgers this season and is 3-3 with a 4.09 ERA in nine career turns against Los Angeles.

WALK-OFFS

1. Rockies All-Star CF Charlie Blackmon has recorded back-to-back two-hit outings after being 1-for-21 with seven strikeouts in his first five games of the month.

2. Los Angeles OF Joc Pederson is 1-for-9 over his last three games after hitting three homers in a two-game span.

3. Colorado LHP Chris Rusin (foot) could be activated off the 10-day disabled list as soon as Thursday.

PREDICTION: Rockies 8, Dodgers 6

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. San Francisco Giants Preview and Predictions 08-09-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 8th August 2018 by Gracenote
Pirates vs. Giants Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 08/08/2018

The Pittsburgh Pirates have sprinted back within earshot in the National League Central after winning 19 of their last 27 contests. The Pirates look to draw closer to the leaders on Thursday when they continue their nine-game road trip with the opener a four-game series against the San Francisco Giants.

Adam Frazier collected three hits in Pittsburgh's 4-3 victory over Colorado on Wednesday to improve to 10-for-21 with six extra-base hits (five doubles, homer), four RBIs and three runs scored in August. Gregory Polanco has been ice-cold to start the month, although he has followed a 1-for-17 performance by driving in a run in back-to-back outings. Offense has been in short supply for San Francisco, which has answered a four-game winning streak by scoring 11 runs en route to dropping four of its last five. Andrew McCutchen, who had three doubles among his four hits against his former team on May 11-13, went 0-for-6 with two strikeouts as the Giants were swept in an abbreviated two-game series versus Houston.

TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh, NBCS Bay Area (San Francisco)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Pirates RH Ivan Nova (6-6, 4.49 ERA) vs. Giants LH Andrew Suarez (4-7, 4.60)

Nova allowed four runs and three walks in back-to-back outings, with the latter resulting in a no-decision versus St. Louis on Saturday. The 31-year-old Dominican is sporting a 2-1 mark with a 5.81 ERA and 1.71 WHIP over his last six trips to the mound. Nova has been flustered by Brandon Crawford, who is 5-for-11 with three extra-base hits (two doubles, triple) versus the hurler.

Suarez saw his streak of 12 consecutive starts without allowing over four earned runs come to a halt on Saturday after permitting a career-high eight on 10 hits in a 9-3 setback versus Arizona. The 25-year-old was blitzed for five runs in four innings of an 11-2 setback at Pittsburgh on May 11. Starling Marte and Jose Osuna belted two-run shots in that contest off Suarez, who will make his 20th career start on Thursday.

WALK-OFFS

1. San Francisco 3B Evan Longoria has hit safely in 10 of his last 12 games.

2. Pittsburgh is just 10-19 against NL West representatives this season.

3. Marte went 6-for-13 with a homer, two RBIs and three runs scored in the previous series versus the Giants.

PREDICTION: Giants 4, Pirates 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Arlington
Arlington - Race 2

$2 Win/Place/Show / $1 Daily Double (2-3) / $1 Exacta / $0.50 Trifecta $0.10 Superfecta / $0.50 Pick 3 (Races 2-4) Brisnet.com $0.50 Early Pick 4 (2-5)


Optional Claiming $50,000 • 6 1/2 Furlongs • All-Weather • Ages 3 and up • CR: 91 • Purse: $34,000 • Post: 2:06P
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON $9,800 TWICE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR STATE BRED OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $50,000. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JULY 9, 2018 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $50,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $30,000 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Dominant Front-runner. JEAN ELIZABETH is the Dominant Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * JEAN ELIZABETH: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Today is a sprint and thi s is the horse's third or fourth start after a layoff. SOUL SINGER: Today is a sprint and this is the horse's third or fourth start after a layoff. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. DANDY GAL: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface.
6
JEAN ELIZABETH
6/5

3/1
4
SOUL SINGER
10/1

6/1
5
DANDY GAL
6/1

10/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
6
JEAN ELIZABETH
6

6/5
Front-runner
91

94

89.0

83.4

77.4
4
SOUL SINGER
4

10/1
Front-runner
87

80

77.6

73.7

66.2
5
DANDY GAL
5

6/1
Stalker
87

88

74.0

81.2

75.7
1
ETHYL ETHER
1

6/1
Stalker
82

87

55.2

73.1

67.1
3
BET SHE WINS
3

8/5
Alternator/Stalker
91

82

72.0

83.4

75.9
2
JOLEE
2

20/1
Alternator/Non-contender
97

80

54.2

75.4

66.9

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Belterra Park
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 8 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $7500 Class Rating: 57

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 7 GEORGY GIRL 5/2

# 1 HIDDEN GARDEN 9/2

# 5 SYLVESTER YOLY 7/2

GEORGY GIRL looks strong to best this field. Has to be carefully examined here on the basis of the figures in the speed department alone. Looks solid versus this group of animals and will probably be one of the leaders. With a nice Equibase class figure average of 67, has one of the top class advantages in this group of animals. HIDDEN GARDEN - Has run soundly when racing a dirt sprint race. SYLVESTER YOLY - Will almost certainly come out strong - I have liked the way this mare has moved promptly to the lead recently. The trainer wheels this horse right back to race again.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Canterbury Park
Canterbury Park - Race 7

Win, Place &Show / $1 Exacta / $.50 Trifecta / $.10 Superfecta $1 Daily Double / $.50 Rolling Pick 3 (Races 7-8-9) $.50 Pick 4 (Races 7-8-9-10)


Claiming $5,000 • 1 Mile • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 81 • Purse: $12,500 • Post: 9:06P
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT ONE MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 9 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE JUNE 9 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000 (CLAIMING RACES FOR $4,000 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED). MINNESOTA BRED CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Basic Race. This race has a mixed pace scenario. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners (to look for a lone Front-runner). * KEY ANGLES * CEE'S JOY: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Jockey/Trainer combination return on investment is at least +20. BLUES EDGE: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. SPANISH ARCH: Horse ranks in the top three in Tra ckMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. STARSHIP IMPULSE: Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the di stance/surface.
3
CEE'S JOY
8/1

9/2
5
BLUES EDGE
4/1

6/1
4
SPANISH ARCH
3/1

7/1
1
STARSHIP IMPULSE
10/1

9/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
1
STARSHIP IMPULSE
1

10/1
Front-runner
76

76

80.0

67.4

60.4
6
RASPBERRY PUNCH
6

12/1
Front-runner
72

58

76.4

62.4

47.9
5
BLUES EDGE
5

4/1
Stalker
77

72

72.0

72.6

68.1
2
TIZ A FIRST LADY
2

8/1
Stalker
78

65

55.2

59.4

46.4
3
CEE'S JOY
3

8/1
Trailer
88

85

73.5

86.4

79.4
4
SPANISH ARCH
4

3/1
Trailer
82

76

55.4

67.2

61.2
7
ONE SIMPLE RULE
7

9/2
Trailer
83

69

53.8

52.0

41.5
8
U S EXPRESS
8

4/1
Alternator/Non-contender
76

66

59.1

60.1

51.6

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Del Mar - Race #8 - Post: 5:33pm - Maiden Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 83

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#2 MR BINGLEY (ML=5/1)
#7 SALAH (ML=20/1)


MR BINGLEY - Good return on investment for this jock and handler twosome. This racer should go right out to the early lead and may never look back. Could gate to wire the field. Is ranked highest in (EPS) earnings per start. A powerful effort in this event can add to the lifetime bankroll. The 54 last race speed figure looks good on paper. SALAH - Don't often see a beneficial ROI like +142. This jock/conditioner duo has done well together over the last year. It's a big plus that this 1st time starter has been working over the same track that he makes his debut at today. Gets help from Harty with the addition of Lasix.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 PALLADIUM (ML=5/2), #4 THE CREEP (ML=7/2), #8 FLASHY SHAQ (ML=5/1),

PALLADIUM - Today's contest is 5 1/2 furlongs. Hasn't finished in the money in a sprint race in the last two months. Not the best of signs. THE CREEP - Generally I need a sprinter to have some recent good showings in sprint events in order to play him. In the last race this steed finished eighth. Doesn't bode well for his chances today. Not likely that the speed rating he garnered on July 21st will hold up in this contest. FLASHY SHAQ - Finished third in his most recent race with a disappointing speed figure. When I look at today's class figure, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this bunch.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#2 MR BINGLEY to win at post-time odds of 3/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
2 with 7 with [4,5,8] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPER HIGH 5 WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Presque Isle Downs
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 8 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $11000 Class Rating: 70

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JULY 9 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $6,250


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 10 CHARMING ENTRY 10/1

# 6 PUSHY GIRL 8/1

# 4 RICKEY'S GIRL 6/1

CHARMING ENTRY looks formidable to best this field and is a very good value wager given the line. Ought to go to the lead and may never look back. Recently Bracho has been scorching which may give the edge to this mare. PUSHY GIRL - A nice return on investment of +5 with this jock and trainer duo. Has performed soundly recently in sprint races, posting a nifty 65 avg speed fig. RICKEY'S GIRL - A solid 88 avg class figure may give this filly a distinct class edge against this field. The Equibase Speed Fig of 80 from her most recent contest looks very strong in here.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Prairie Meadows - Race #1 - Post: 6:00pm - Maiden Special - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $32,500 Class Rating: 62

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 SUNRUN (ML=8/1)
#2 TIZ WILD WIND (ML=5/2)


SUNRUN - I like the fact that this first time starter's recent works have been over this track. The morning line odds on this filly are higher than those of the other entrant from the shedrow of trainer Eikleberry. Often the longer-priced part of a 'split' entry wins. This rider and trainer have a fantastic winning percent when they team up. Gets help from Eikleberry with the addition of Lasix. This trainer has a very good ROI with first time starters. TIZ WILD WIND - Speed is always important in horse racing, but the lone speed horse is always dangerous. Have to give this filly a chance. Ran a strong contest last race out within the last month or so.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 PARADE OF ROSES (ML=3/1), #4 FACTRESS (ML=7/2), #3 KITTY KRYS (ML=9/2),

PARADE OF ROSES - No pace in this affair to help this stretch-runner's chances. FACTRESS - Hard to take this racer at the odds after the result (eighth) in the last affair. 7/2 is not worth the risk for any thoroughbred in a sprint of 6 furlongs that hasn't finished in the money in a sprint race recently. When looking at today's class figure, she will have to notch a better speed rating than last time around the track to vie in this dirt sprint. KITTY KRYS - Most likely won't make much of an impact today.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - SUNRUN - While this filly is a first time maiden, you don't need to skip the race. Statistics on the dam show her foals win at above a 50 percent clip. With that knowledge, smart players will use this to their advantage





STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#6 SUNRUN is the play if we get odds of 3/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga
RACE #8 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 4:45 PM EASTERN POST
New York Stallion Stakes - Statue of Liberty Division
8.0 FURLONGS INNER TURF THREE YEAR OLD FILLIES STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#2 GOODBYE BROCKLEY
#9 MENTALITY
#1 BYSELF
#3 KRESSIE

This race pays tribute to the colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. A gift to the U.S. from France, it was designed by Frederic Bartholdi and dedicated on October 28, 1886.Here in the 15th renewal of "The Liberty,"#2 GOODBYE BROCKLEY, the pace profile leader in this field, has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of her last five starts, winning in both her 2nd, and 4th races back, which is indicative of a "Bounce Pattern" folks, and the BoUnCe will be UP/POSITIVE this afternoon folks if this pattern continues. Jockey Luis Saez and Trainer Philip Serpe send her to the post ... they've hit the board with an even 50% of their last 80 entries saddled as a team to date. #9 MENTALITY, a 4-1 shot, takes a class drop (-3), and has turned in "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in five straight, hitting the board in four of those efforts, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in her 3rd race back.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by Top Horse Analytics at Saratoga

08/09/18, SAR, Race 5, 3.28 ET
7F [Dirt] 1.20.02 CLAIMING. Purse $32,000.
Claiming Price $16,000. FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES
Exacta, Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (5-7) - Grand Slam Races (5-8), NYRA Bets Pick 5 (.50) Races (5-9), Double
Best in race - (J)ockey (T)rainer (S)peed (F)inish (E)arnings (W)orkouts (L)ead (C)loser
Top Horse Win Percent 30.30, $1 ROI 0.99, For Race Category Non-Maiden Dirt
Rating Pgm# Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer FLAGS
100.0000 6 Desert Lights 5-1 Saez L Cox Brad H. TEC
096.3546 9 Potomac 1-1 Ortiz J L Levine Bruce N. F
095.0559 1 Flatexcel 8-1 Santana. Jr. R Toscano. Jr. John T. J
094.9223 7 Gio Lucky 6-1 Castellano J Gullo Gary P. S
094.2494 3 Southeast 4-1 Franco M Brown Bruce R.
093.6132 2 Beyond Honor 20-1 Davis D Ryerson James T. W
092.5124 8 Shipsandgoods 30-1 Maragh R Dunham Bob G.
090.9947 4 Buss the Bell 20-1 Lezcano A Persaud Randi
089.9658 5 Foolish Ghost 20-1 Luzzi M J Brown Bruce R. L

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 9
David Schwab

Week 8 Betting Recap

For the second week in a row in the CFL, the favorites went 3-1 straight-up. However, they were an even 2-2 against the spread. Toronto pulled off the lone SU upset on Thursday night with a thrilling 42-41 victory at home against Ottawa as a 6 ½-point underdog. Later on Thursday night, Edmonton got past Saskatchewan 26-19 to barely cover the 6 ½ points at home.

On Friday night, Hamilton crushed Montreal 50-11 as a seven-point favorite on the road. Calgary remained perfect on the year with Saturday’ 27-18 victory against British Columbia, but it failed to cover as a heavy 12 ½-point favorite at home.

Thursday, Aug. 9

Edmonton Eskimos (5-2 SU, 3-4 ATS) at British Columbia Lions (2-4 SU, 4-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Edmonton -3 ½
Total: 54

Game Overview

Edmonton has won its last two games both SU and ATS with much better consistency on each side of the ball. You know that things are going well when Mike Reilly completes just 48.1 percent of his 27 passing attempts for 257 yards and the Eskimos still win. With that performance last week, he has now thrown for a CFL-high 2,320 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first seven games. CJ Gable is third in the league in rushing yards with 481 on 94 attempts.

The Lions became the first team this season to lose to Calgary by fewer than 10 points. They have now covered in their last three games while closing as underdogs in all three contests. Travis Lulay is firmly back in place as BC’s starting quarterback despite the losing record. He has put the ball up 112 times with 72 completions for 932 yards and four touchdown throws against two interceptions.

Betting Trends

-- The Eskimos are 7-1 SU in the last eight meetings and they have gone 5-1 ATS in their last six games in this West Division matchup. The total has gone OVER in six of the last nine meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL
Dunkel

Week 9

Thursday, August 9

Edmonton @ BC Lions

Game 351-352
August 9, 2018 @ 10:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Edmonton
114.888
BC Lions
108.565
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 6 1/2
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 3 1/2
54
Dunkel Pick:
Edmonton
(-3 1/2); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL
Long Sheet

Week 9

Thursday, August 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EDMONTON (5 - 2) at BRITISH COLUMBIA (2 - 4) - 8/9/2018, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
EDMONTON is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
EDMONTON is 21-41 ATS (-24.1 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 58-33 ATS (+21.7 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 5-1 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 5-1 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL

Week 9

Trend Report

Thursday, August 9

Edmonton Eskimos
Edmonton is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games
Edmonton is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Edmonton's last 9 games
Edmonton is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Edmonton is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Edmonton's last 11 games on the road
Edmonton is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Edmonton's last 9 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games when playing on the road against British Columbia
Edmonton is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against British Columbia
British Columbia Lions
British Columbia is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
British Columbia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of British Columbia's last 9 games
British Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
British Columbia is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
British Columbia is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Edmonton
The total has gone OVER in 6 of British Columbia's last 9 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games when playing at home against Edmonton
British Columbia is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Edmonton

[Can'tPickAWinner]

CFL

Week 9


Edmonton (5-2) (-3.5, 54) @ BC Lions (2-4)— Eskimos won six of last seven series games; they split last four visits here, winning 35-29 in OT in last visit last October. Last three series games went over the total. Edmonton won its last three games, scoring 26-44-16 points; they’re 2-1 on road, with wins by 21-3 points, and a 20-17 loss in Toronto. Three of their last four games went under. Lions are 2-0 at home, 0-4 on road; they allowed 17-10 points in their two wins, 27+ in their losses- both their home games stayed under the total.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Thursday's Preseason Essentials
Tony Mejia

Preseason NFL betting carries an awful reputation since it's easy to dismiss games that don't count in the standings. That's short-sighted.

Every team carries goals into their games and there are often instances where it's clear that one team will be the aggressor. There are games where it becomes clear going in whether teams are looking to test their offense or put very little on display.

The Hall of Fame game saw the favored Ravens barely hold on over the Bears in Canton, failing to cover despite being in position to win most of the second half. In Week 1, we won't see many starters, but there are plenty of angles worth considering. Here's I'm looking at as 30 of the NFL's 32 teams take the field for the first time:

Thursday, Aug. 9

Carolina at Buffalo (-3/34), 7 p.m. ET: The Bills have rotated Nathan Peterman and A.J. McCarron with the first-team offense, so No. 7 pick Josh Allen will play a significant role here with the third team likely deciding the outcome. McCarron and Peterman are looking to impress new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, who also has to find receivers he can trust outside of Kelvin Benjamin. Buffalo traded for Corey Coleman this week and got him some practice time, but it remains to be seen if he has any role in this one. It definitely looks like Sean McDermott’s defense, coordinated by veteran Leslie Frazier, is far ahead of the Bills’ offense. Buffalo lost its first three preseason games under McDermott in his first season as head coach.

McDermott was Ron Rivera’s defensive coordinator until 2016, so he knows exactly how his former boss approaches the preseason opener since he’s been a part of more wins than losses in that role. With Norv Turner coming out of retirement to run the offense from the press box and Eric Washington elevated to defensive coordinator to replace current Cardinals head coach Steve Wilks, there is new leadership in place. Cam Newton, called out by former teammate Benjamin for his lack of accuracy, is expected to get at least a series before giving way to Garrett Gilbert, Taylor Henicke and rookie Kyle Allen. Carolina has had awful luck with injuries along its offensive line in camp, so guys who would’ve potentially had little shot at making the team will now be showing out with roster spots on the line.

Chicago at Cincinnati (-2/35.5), 7 p.m. ET: Matt Nagy debuted as head coach of the Bears in the 17-16 Hall of Fame game loss, but since the baseball cap stayed on second-year QB Mitch Trubisky, it’s this next Ohio-based contest, 200 miles southwest of Canton, that truly counts. Nagy hadn’t divulged how long he intended to play Trubisky entering Wednesday but has seen him do his best work of a turnover-filled camp this week, demonstrating an improved grasp on his offense and receivers. Chicago should have an edge on the Bengals considering most of their players have gotten their feet wet and backups Chase Daniel and Tyler Bray each threw for touchdowns, but the Ravens did push the ball down the field against a Bears defense that remains without unsigned top pick Roquan Smith.

While Nagy comes off his first preseason game running his own program, Marvin Lewis will coach in his 62nd, entering his 16th season at 30-31 in exhibitions. This season’s big wrinkles are the addition of defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, who was highly coveted once the Lions passed on promoting him to head coach. He’s got a chance to put a special group together, so this will be an interesting opener for them and could set up some must-watch football against Trubisky and a young Bears first-team offense even though linebacker Vontaze Burfict won’t play. Offensively, snapping issues were a concern in the Bengals’ simulated game over the weekend since first-round pick Billy Price is struggling, so that’s something to be aware of if you’re thinking of backing host Cincinnati, who won’t play at home again until the meaningless fourth preseason game.

Tampa Bay at Miami (-1.5/34), 7 p.m. ET: Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill hopes to make his competitive return after tearing his ACL barely a year ago. With Jay Cutler not back, there’s no quarterback controversy despite the acquisition of Brock Osweiler and Bryce Petty, who are looking to push holdover David Fales for the No. 2 spot. Tampa Bay’s Jameis Winston won’t play for the first three regular-season games but is expected to get work in behind Week 1 starter Ryan Fitzpatrick. Neither may play much given the team’s lack of depth on the offensive line with Ryan Griffin and rookie Austin Allen expected to finish up. It’s going to be a hot humid night, but thunderstorms should clear out of the area which means rain won’t be a factor.

Miami’s Ryan Tannehill hopes to make his competitive return after tearing his ACL barely a year ago. With Jay Cutler not back, there’s no quarterback controversy despite the acquisition of Brock Osweiler and Bryce Petty, who are looking to push holdover David Fales for the No. 2 spot. Tampa Bay’s Jameis Winston won’t play for the first three regular-season games but is expected to get work in behind Week 1 starter Ryan Fitzpatrick. Neither may play much given the team’s lack of depth on the offensive line with Ryan Griffin and rookie Austin Allen expected to finish up. It’s going to be a hot humid night, but thunderstorms should clear out of the area which means rain won’t be a factor.

Cleveland (-1/35) at N.Y. Giants, 7 p.m. ET: Tyrod Taylor will start ahead of Baker Mayfield in the regular-season opener and in this visit to Met Life Stadium, but the No. 1 pick will get more snaps than probably every other QB on the roster as Todd Haley gets his first crack at turning around the Browns offense in his first year as a coordinator under Hue Jackson. With Josh Gordon still away and Coleman traded, this is an opportunity for rookie Antonio Callaway and Rashard Higgins to continue making plays. Veteran Drew Stanton’s experience is a luxury most teams lack in their third-stringer, which should be an advantage. The Browns were perfect last preseason.

Pat Shurmur begins his tenure as New York’s coach knowing he can’t flop quite as spectacularly as predecessor Ben McAdoo, who was replaced by Steve Spagnolo for the final month of action. Both are gone. James Bettcher will run the defense after doing it in Arizona over the last three years. Shurmur will lean on Mike Shula to help with the offense, but he’s calling plays. No determinations have been made about throwing Eli Manning, Odell Beckham, Jr. or top pick Saquon Barkley out there. Manning probably won’t play but has said he’d like more time than usual to get used to the new offense. Davis Webb, rookie Kyle Lauletta and Alex Tanney will see the bulk of the snaps.

Pittsburgh at Philadelphia (-3/33), 7 p.m. ET: The Steelers and Eagles last got together in 2016 in the preseason and Mike Tomlin’s team lost at home 17-0, but don’t expect him to be any more invested than he typically is this time of year over that embarrassment or because his Pennsylvania neighbors finally won a Super Bowl. He doesn’t put much importance on exhibition games and went 3-14 from 2013-16 before a 3-1 finish last season. He’s only won five of 13 career preseason openers and won’t play Ben Roethlisberger or many of his other veterans, ruling out Antonio Brown and staying true to his philosophy regarding this time of year despite the speculation his seat is warming up. There’s been no rotation set, but rookie Mason Rudolph will join veteran backups Landry Jones and Josh Dobbs. Running back James Conner has been the most impressive back with Le’Veon Bell and could get lots of work.

The Eagles take the field as reigning champs for the first time but probably won’t have Carson Wentz back in the mix at all this preseason. Nick Foles will be prepped to start Week 1 but won’t participate here, which means Nate Sudfeld and Joe Callahan will get all the snaps. It would be surprising to see the team’s top receivers work, but their young players have gotten a lot of reps and welcomed in a crowd of over 40.000 to watch practice over the weekend, an experience likely to serve Philadelphia well here. Doug Pederson has won six of eight preseason games and is working with a new coordinator in Mike Groh since Frank Reich took the Colts’ head job.

New Orleans at Jacksonville (-2.5/34.5), 7 p.m. ET: Sean Payton has coached his team to losses in 10 of his last 12 exhibition games and isn’t expected to expose Drew Brees for even a drive here. While Tom Savage will likely start, Taysom Hill and rookie J.T. Barrett should get the bulk of the work and to decide this game. Neither guy should be able to hurt an NFL defense with their arm but can do significant damage with their legs. One rookie worth watching is wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith (UCF), who has been the talk of camp, which is saying something given the talent available on this roster.

After last year’s huge breakthrough where they fell a fourth-quarter collapse short of a Super Bowl berth, the Jaguars will deal with a target on their backs this season. Doug Marrone returns both of his coordinators and has been pleasantly surprised by a more comfortable Blake Bortles settling in early. At this time last season, it looked like his days as Jacksonville’s starting QB were numbered. Chad Henne was closing in and Bortles played poorly in an exhibition game where he was meant to erase all doubt. Although we should see Bortles start here, backups Cody Kessler and Tanner Lee, a rookie from Nebraska who started at Tulane, will play most of this one. The Jags are hoping for solid play out of unheralded guys who have shined thus far like rookie WR D.J. Chark and running back Brandon Wilds.

L.A. Rams at Baltimore (-3/36), 7:30 p.m. ET: Coaching boy wonder Sean McVay won his first two preseason games last year and then went on to post an 11-5 regular-season record, winning the NFC West. Since the Rams are so early into a preseason where McVay is implementing new wrinkles and installing a lot of offense that wasn’t in the playbook last season. QB Jared Goff played and most of the starters participated, but that isn’t expected to be the case in this first contest. Star DT Aaron Donald remains away from the team and the Rams got a lot of work against the Ravens in joint practices this week, so don’t expect much from them in this game. Sean Mannion, Brandon Allen and rookie Luis Perez, the Harlon Hill Trophy winner from D-II champion Texas A&M-Commerce, will look to show what they can do.

The Ravens escaped after turning away a Chicago two-point conversion in their Hall of Fame game win last Thursday, but Lamar Jackson didn’t exactly light it up after a sharp debut from Robert Griffin III. Since John Harbaugh is one of the NFL’s top coaches in the preseason (29-12, .707) and he’s throwing Joe Flacco in the mix for a drive or two, Baltimore has gone from a 1-point favorite to laying the full three at home. There are a few concerns since the offensive line looked to have protection issues against the Bears and struggled in the joint practices against the Rams, but you can understand why they’re favored here with Goff sitting out and most of their roster already owning a game under their belts.

Washington at New England (-3/37.5), 7:30 p.m. ET: It’s Alex Smith time in D.C., which may not excite most of you but has Skins Nation filled with butterflies. He’ll play at least a series to get his feet wet before Colt McCoy and Kevin Hogan take over. Washington hosts its next two contests, so the team can create some positive momentum with a solid showing if they’re prepared to hit the ground running. There’s healthy competition at running back and receiver, so this is a team to keep an eye on since Jay Gruden will want to get a look at all his toys and generate confidence for his group in an effort to flush last year’s disappointment. Being matched up against the defending champion Patriots, who Gruden beat 23-6 in his first preseason game as head coach back in ’14, could be enough motivation to keep young guys hungry and motivated on the road.

Bill Belichick has more uncertainty surrounding his team that any point in the past five-plus years. Former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will coach the Lions on Friday, so linebackers coach Brian Flores will begin his tenure as the Pats’ defensive playcaller under the same system his predecessor worked with. Because much pressure isn’t applied on the quarterback and the scheme is so vanilla this time of year, New England surrendered 31.5 points last preseason after allowing 19.5 points the year before. Tom Brady won’t play this one, which means we should see Brian Hoyer start and rookie Danny Etling under center for most of the evening. It’s not exactly a mystery that he’s no Jimmy Garoppolo or even Jacoby Brissett.

Tennessee at Green Bay (PK/34.5), 8 p.m. ET: New coach Mike Vrabel has been around the block with this football thing, crossing paths with coaching legends on all levels, so there’s no doubt he’s prepared for his first game in the head seat. Veteran defensive coordinator Dean Pees will join him in attempting to put together a stout defense, so they might be ahead of the offense although early word is new coordinator Matt LaFleur has done a nice job keeping them off-balance. That’s easier to do with Marcus Mariota than, say, rookie Luke Falk, who will likely get the bulk of the action after taking over for second-stringer Blaine Gabbert. LaFleur didn’t call plays in L.A. with the Rams as their OC last season and will want to get up to speed in games, but the next two will offer far more ideal circumstances to do so than this one should, especially on the road at Lambeau.

Cheeseheads likely won’t see Aaron Rodgers doing anything other than holding a clipboard since he hasn’t played in a preseason opener since 2015, but there will still be plenty to look at. There’s a new offense that Mike McCarthy and new coordinator Joe Philbin are putting in place, not to mention a first glance at the Mike Pettine-led defense since the former Browns head coach is back doing what he does best. Brett Hundley is hoping to hold off DeShone Kizer, while a young receiving corps that Rodgers chewed out publicly this week hopes to impress when the lights come on. McCarthy has won seven of nine exhibitions, seven of eight preseason games at Lambeau and hasn’t lost an opener since 2014. The Pack has been working out against the Titans all week, so players will be familiar with one another.

Houston at Kansas City (-2.5/34), 8:30 p.m. ET: We’re expecting to see Deshaun Watson. Having made a speedy recovery after tearing an ACL to spoil what was quickly becoming a special rookie season, the standout QB is expected to make a cameo for Bill O’Brien before giving way to backups Brandon Weeden, Joe Webb and Stephen Morris, each of whom have an NFL start under their belt. O’Brien has liked how his offensive line has improved and was pleased with how camp unfolded. It might be one big party if J.J. Watt is unleashed since the word is he’s ready to play if the Texans will let him. With Vrabel hired by Tennessee, Romeo Crennel will assume defensive coordinator duties once again, so the system will be similar. Houston was perfect in the ’16 preseason but went just 1-2 last year in an August sabotaged by Hurricane Harvey.

This is the biggest preseason Andy Reid has had in Kansas City, more important than even the first back in 2013, when he and then-49ers import Alex Smith got together in the hopes of growing together and building a winner. Smith’s time produced success, but Reid is looking for titles in handing the reins to second-year pro Patrick Mahomes, whose arm talent can get everyone a ring. He’s certain to give Reid his share of headaches too and started early by opening camp with a flurry of turnovers, but the 22-year-old has been given a license to test out the offense. That will continue tonight at muggy Arrowhead, but it remains to be seen how long he plays before giving way to Chad Henne, Matt McGloin and potentially, rookie Chase Litton. Reid has won nine of 20 openers and is 36-40 in exhibitions. There were at least 36 points scored in all of Kansas City’s preseason games last season.

Dallas at San Francisco (-3.5/35), 10 p.m. ET Jason Garrett has been put on notice that it’s playoffs or pink slip. Dez Bryant has been discarded. Giant clouds aren’t encircling Ezekiel Elliott. The Cowboys were back in Oxnard for training camp and have a talented group in place, talking Super Bowl despite failing to make the playoffs again last season. Dak Prescott may get int there for a series, but this matchup with San Francisco will feature Cooper Rush before giving way to rookies Mike White (WKU) and Dalton Sturm (UTSA), both products of Conference USA. We’ll get a good look at Dallas’ depth here since most starters won’t participate. Payton is 23-27 in preseason action and went winless in ’15 and ’16.

Having Jimmy Garoppolo in place for the first time after offering a preview of his capabilities has ramped up the intensity and expectations in Santa Clara. Kyle Shanahan has his quarterback and can make better use of all of his personnel as a result, so it’s no surprise he’s going to get an immediate look at what he’s got on the roster by playing his starters for at least a series. It wouldn’t be surprising to see them out there a full quarter. C.J. Beathard and Nick Mullens, both of whom were in the program last year, will wrap up the action and it’s likely that we’ll see a strong effort since the 49ers won’t return home until the fourth and final preseason contest.

Indianapolis at Seattle (-2/35), 10 p.m. ET: Andrew Luck hasn’t taken a snap in a game since Jan. 1 of ’17, so all eyes will be on his return. New head coach Frank Reich’s debut takes a backseat as a result, but it’s not likely that we’ll see much of Indianapolis’ franchise quarterback dropping back to pass since LT Anthony Castonzo was lost to a hamstring issue that will make life more difficult for everyone else this month. Luck will get a quarter, backed by Jacoby Brissett, which means that the Colts will have a chance to test the Seahawks’ defense with their best before giving way to Phillip Walker and Brad Kaaya to split the second half. The Legion of Boom is no more, but Seattle is still going to be tough at home with a loud crowd expected, creating additional obstacles for Reich’s new offensive coordinator, Nick Sirianni, who has worked under Frank Reich and with the Chargers under Mike McCoy and Anthony Lynn. Reich is his mentor, so this will be the beginning of his big break.

The Seahawks have been as reliable a team worth backing this time of year as there’s been since 2012, riding Pete Carroll’s competitive streak and a homefield edge that has shown up despite the games not counting due to the atmosphere at Century Link Field. Seattle has had three perfect preseason runs in that span and will be aggressively carving out what is likely to be a new identity given the loss of leaders like Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas, who continues to hold out. Kam Chancellor is unable to perform, so defensive backs must step up and all eyes will be on rookie Shaquem Griffin and brother Shaquill, who stepped up some last year. There’s a new defensive coordinator in Ken Norton, Jr. who will look to help Carroll figure out new wrinkles. The offense will be new as well since Brian Schottenheimer and a new staff are replacing mainstays Darrell Bevell and Tom Cable. It remains to be seen if we’ll see Russell Wilson for even a series but there is a stable of talented running backs to rotate through, so look for a heavy emphasis on the ground game. Rookie Alex McGough out of Florida International (C-USA, Baby!) will likely be on the field at winning time, so keep that in mind if you’re laying the two-spot.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bettors buying into Browns, and Thursday's NFL preseason odds and analysis

There are 12 NFL preseason games on the board Thursday night, giving football fans their first go at the NFL odds this season. We dive into the must-know news and notes for handicapping some of tonight’s tune-up tilts:

Hard-Knocked Life

HBO’s NFL Hard Knocks gives fans an in-depth look inside the lens of an NFL training camp like no other but all of the cameras and extra bodies can certainly impact the regular preparation coaches and players require for success.

Teams featured on Hard Knocks are just 16-27 ATS in the preseason since 2001 (Tampa Bay went 1-3 ATS last August). The Cleveland Browns are this season’s featured team and have drawn some preseason attention to their exhibition opener against the New York Giants Thursday. The Browns opened as 3-point road underdogs but have been bet over the fence, to -1.

Slow out of the gate

Over the past three years, teams have combined for an average of 8.7 points in the first quarter of preseason Week 1 games, with players working off rust, coaches running new playbooks, and first and second teams only getting limited snaps.

Take this trend into consideration when sizing up the 34-point total for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ game against the Miami Dolphins. Neither team is overly threatening offensively and, according to the Tampa Bay Times, fans should see a healthy dose of Bucs RB Ronald Jones II running the football – keeping gains short and the clock moving. Pay attention Under bettors.

Indy Gets Lucky

The long-awaited return of Andrew Luck will take center stage in Seattle on Thursday night and according to multiple sources, the Stanford product’s arm looks better than ever.

According to new Indianapolis head coach Frank Reich, the Colts are expected to send their franchise quarterback out for the first quarter before giving way to capable second-stinger Jacoby Brissett, who will likely finish out the half and maybe get a sequence in the second half.

Reich also mentioned his offense would be “pretty basic” Thursday night and will focus on fundamentals which should keep Colts’ offensive turnovers to a minimum and put them in a good position to be leading by halftime. Indianapolis is a 2-point road underdog in Seattle with the total at 35 points at most betting sites.

Young guns

The Alex Smith era is over in Kansas City and Thursday night marks the beginning of a new chapter led by Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs are 2.5-point home favorites hosting the Houston Texans.

The young QB is excited for Thursday’s matchup with the Texans, saying he wants to be “efficient” and hopes to get “a couple of drives and touchdowns”. The first team offense is expected to play the entire first quarter, according to Chiefs Reporter, BJ Kissel.

As for Houston, second-year QB Deshaun Watson doesn’t have any specific timeline in terms of work Thursday, but Texans head coach Bill O’Brien did tell the media it was “more likely” that Watson would play Thursday night – his first game action since a season-ending knee injury in early November. Behind Watson on the depth chart are veterans Brandon Weeden and Joe Webb, as well as fourth-string QB Stephen Morris.

The Lambeau Flop

Things in Green Bay haven’t been great this week as quarterback Aaron Rodgers laid into his receivers after a sluggish day in camp. Heading into their preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans, the Packers’ offense will be unrecognizable.

According to the Milwaukee Journal, the Pack will very likely be without Rodgers, Aaron Jones, Jimmy Graham, Randall Cobb, and Davante Adams in Week 1 of the preseason. And if fans do see Ty Montgomery, he will be on a limited snap count thanks to his injury concerns.

Despite the Titans having some defensive challenges, Tennessee is expected to at least start Marcus Mariota, whose mobility should give the Packers’ new defense under Mike Pettine some early trouble. Pettine stated the focus of his young defense is to play clean and to avoid taking penalties, which should give the Titans offense some wiggle room when moving the ball. This game is set as a pick’em with the total at 34 points.

Be like Mike

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin isn’t too worried when it comes to his high-powered offense in the preseason. Despite having some of the top weapons in the NFL, Tomlin’s playbook has been vanilla at best during the exhibition slate with Pittsburgh averaging just over two touchdowns per game in the preseason since 2013.

The Steelers’ head coach has a 17-29-0 Over/Under record in the exhibition slate for his career, staying below the total in 63 percent of those preseason games.

Pittsburgh isn’t expected to play any of its star offensive players in Thursday’s Week 1 tune-up with the Philadelphia Eagles, nor are the Eagles planning on playing many of their first-team offense, with both Carson Wentz and Nick Foles sitting out.

The total for Thursday’s game opened at 35 points and has been bet down to 32.5.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

WNBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, August 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SEATTLE (23 - 7) at WASHINGTON (17 - 11) - 8/9/2018, 11:30 AM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all games this season.
SEATTLE is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) as a favorite this season.
SEATTLE is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in road games this season.
SEATTLE is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in a road game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 this season.
SEATTLE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in road games against Eastern conference opponents this season.
SEATTLE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
SEATTLE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in road games in non-conference games this season.
SEATTLE is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
SEATTLE is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) in road games after scoring 75 points or more this season.
SEATTLE is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game after 15+ games this season.
SEATTLE is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game this season.
SEATTLE is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games this season.
SEATTLE is 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
WASHINGTON is 326-384 ATS (-96.4 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 12-22 ATS (-12.2 Units) against Western conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 12-22 ATS (-12.2 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) in home games revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 4-3 against the spread versus SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 5-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LOS ANGELES (18 - 11) at ATLANTA (19 - 10) - 8/9/2018, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 6-2 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 4-4 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MINNESOTA (16 - 13) at LAS VEGAS (12 - 16) - 8/9/2018, 10:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
LAS VEGAS is 4-4 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 7-1 straight up against LAS VEGAS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

WNBA

Thursday, August 9

Trend Report

Seattle Storm
Seattle is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Seattle is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Seattle is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Seattle is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Seattle's last 15 games on the road
Seattle is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games when playing Washington
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Seattle's last 12 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington Mystics
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington's last 8 games
Washington is 5-13 SU in its last 18 games when playing Seattle
Washington is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Washington's last 12 games when playing at home against Seattle


Los Angeles Sparks
Los Angeles is 5-10 ATS in its last 15 games
Los Angeles is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 5 games on the road
Los Angeles is 2-10-2 ATS in its last 14 games when playing Atlanta
Los Angeles is 7-14 SU in its last 21 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 5 games when playing Atlanta
Los Angeles is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Los Angeles is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Los Angeles's last 10 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Atlanta Dream
Atlanta is 11-1 ATS in its last 12 games
Atlanta is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Atlanta's last 9 games
Atlanta is 13-3-2 ATS in its last 18 games when playing Los Angeles
Atlanta is 14-7 SU in its last 21 games when playing Los Angeles
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
Atlanta is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing at home against Los Angeles
Atlanta is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Los Angeles
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta's last 10 games when playing at home against Los Angeles


Minnesota Lynx
Minnesota is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Minnesota's last 11 games
Minnesota is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 5 games on the road
Minnesota is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Las Vegas
Minnesota is 13-1 SU in its last 14 games when playing Las Vegas
Minnesota is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Las Vegas
Minnesota is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Las Vegas
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing on the road against Las Vegas
Las Vegas Aces
Las Vegas is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Las Vegas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Las Vegas's last 6 games
Las Vegas is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Las Vegas's last 11 games at home
Las Vegas is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota
Las Vegas is 8-14-1 ATS in its last 23 games when playing Minnesota
Las Vegas is 1-13 SU in its last 14 games when playing Minnesota
Las Vegas is 1-5-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against Minnesota
Las Vegas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Las Vegas's last 6 games when playing at home against Minnesota

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jimmy Boyd Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Red Sox vs Blue Jays
Play on: Blue Jays +155 at MyBookie

1* Free Pick on Toronto Blue Jays +155
It might seem like the Red Sox can't lose right now, but I think the price is right and the spot is perfect for the Blue Jays to steal the series finale on Thursday. Boston has already secured the series by taking the first two and might not be 100% focused for the finale here. The even bigger key here is that Toronto has a guy on the mound that can keep this Red Sox offense in check.
The Blue Jays will send out Ryan Borucki, who has posted a sensational 2.30 ERA and 1.256 WHIP over his first 7 starts. He's also got a 1.35 ERA and 1.050 WHIP in 3 home starts and a 0.90 ERA and 0.850 WHIP over his last 3 starts. Rick Porcello will take the mound for Boston and while he's pitched well of late, he's got a mere 5.27 ERA in his career against the Blue Jays. The most recent was on July 13th, where he gave up 8 runs on 7 hits and 4 walks in just 2 innings of a 13-7 loss at home. Take Toronto!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Info Plays Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Red Sox vs Blue Jays
Play on: Red Sox -160 at BMaker

1* Free Play on Red Sox -160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jack Jones Aug 09 '18, 10:15 PM in 6h
MLB | Pirates vs Giants
Play on: Pirates +124 at 5Dimes

Jack’s Free Pick Thursday: Pittsburgh Pirates +124
I believe the wrong team is favored tonight in San Francisco. The Pirates made some moves before the deadline to show that they are going for it. The Giants have gone the other direction, dropping four of their last five to fall to 57-58 on the season.
Ivan Nova is 6-6 with a 4.49 ERA in 21 starts this season. He has eaten up some big innings for the Pirates. Nova is 1-1 with a 3.16 ERA and 1.130 WHIP in four career starts against San Francisco as well.
Andrew Suarez is 4-7 with a 4.60 ERA and 1.325 WHIP in 19 starts this season, including 1-1 with an 8.10 ERA and 1.860 WHIP in his last three. He is also 0-1 with an 11.25 ERA and 2.250 WHIP in one career start against Pittsburgh, which came in a 2-11 loss on May 11th earlier this season.
The Pirates are 9-2 in their last 11 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30. Pittsburgh is 7-2 in its last nine road games. The Pirates are 12-1 in Nova’s last 13 starts when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game. The Giants are 1-7 in their last eight home games. Bet the Pirates Thursday.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Alex Smart Aug 09 '18, 10:00 PM in 6h
NFLX | Cowboys vs 49ers
Play on: Cowboys +3½ -110 at 5Dimes

The SF 49ers came to life late last season, behind QB Jimmy Garoppolo. The sample size was small in my opinion and he played vs teams that were likely less than inspired to play a team that had struggled so mightily the last couple of seasons. Tonight I expect to also see mostly players vying to upend expected starters, and from a depth perspective my early season rankings suggest the 49ers are not that strong and not as deep as the Boyz on both sides of the ball. Meanwhile, Dallas lost some weapons from last season, and a new core of wide receivers will be on the field, that QB Dak Prescott will have to find chemistry with. I'm also betting on two young stud QBs behind Prescott to shine, ( Cooper Rush and Mike White). I watched these kids and College and feel they have what it takes to eventually succeed in the NFL. Dallas is still a divisional and conference contender, despite of a different look. They are also the better team , and getting points here in the preseason makes for a viable wagering opportunity. Note: Teams like SF that finished their last season at 6-2 or better are just 2-14 ATS the following preseason in their opener as chalk.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doug Upstone Aug 09 '18, 7:00 PM in 3h
NFLX | Browns vs Giants
Play on: Browns +100 at betonline

After a 0-16 season, which was preceded by a 1-15 campaign, there is a belief Cleveland is desperate for a victory, any victory. The Browns opened as a standard three-point road dog and have been flipped to -1. New York doesn't have much to play for, but new head coaches like Pat Shumur win more often than they don't this time of year. Seeing both teams want to run the ball more this upcoming season, I actually prefer the Under, but my Game Estimator has Cleveland, thus, I'll lean in that direction.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Dave Price Aug 09 '18, 8:10 PM in 4h
MLB | Mariners vs Astros
Play on: Mariners +151 at YouWager

Dave’s Thursday Free Play:
1* on Seattle Mariners +151
The Key: I like the price we are getting with James Paxton and the Seattle Mariners tonight agains the Houston Astros. Paxton is 9-5 with a 3.44 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 22 starts this year with 170 strikeouts in 133 1/3 innings. But what really stands out is how well Paxton has pitched against the Astros. The left-hander is 6-3 with a 2.59 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 11 lifetime starts vs. Houston. In 3 starts against the Astros this season, Paxton has yielded just 2 earned runs in 20 2/3 innings. The Mariners are 6-0 in Paxton’s last 6 starts during game 1 of a series. The Astros are 0-4 in their last 4 home games. Take Seattle.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Ryan Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Rangers vs Yankees
Play on: Rangers +200 at YouWager


John Ryan Sports Research Report
@JohnRyanSports1

The Play and the Matchup
Texas (911)
TEXAS (51 - 65) at NY YANKEES (71 - 42)
Thursday, 8/9/2018 7:05 PM
ARIEL JURADO (R) vs. J.A. HAPP (L)
SIM grading and Recommended Strategy
5 stars on a 3 to 10-star grading scale.
Place a 5-star wager on the Texas Rangers using the money line, which currently has the Rangers priced at +200 road dogs.
SIM Projections and Results
Ariel Jurado is projected to complete 6 innings minimum and that Texas will out hit the Yankees by a margin of at least 3. In Yankee home games, when these performance measures have been met, the Yankees are just 28-190 for 12.8% winners and a negative 88% ROI.
Database System Query
Play on all favorites with a money line of -150 or more after allowing 3 runs or less 2 straight games against opponent after 2 straight wins by 4 runs or more.
28-13 since 1997 for 68.3%, +3400 per $100 wagered for a 78% ROI and has averaged a 167 dog line.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Matt Fargo Aug 09 '18, 10:00 PM in 6h
NFLX | Colts vs Seahawks
Play on: Colts +2 -105 at 5Dimes

The first-year head coach is always a great angle to play in the preseason if given the right circumstances. I am a fan of playing first year head coaches in their first games as those guys want to infuse a new winning attitude into the team as it is usually the case that the previous season was far from a good one. This season, there are seven new head coaches in the league with one of those being Frank Reich for Indianapolis. The Colts head to Seattle for their preseason opener and we will see some time from the starters. The first preseason game usually finds the starters playing a series, two at the most but the Colts are planning to play Andrew Luck roughly one quarter and it seems Reich has a plan to keep the entire starting offense on the field somewhere similar to that. Once a powerhouse in the NFC, Seattle is moving more toward the side of rebuilding than contending. 15 of the 22 players expected to start Thursday were not starters in their spots this time last year. Seven of those 15 new starters were not on the team 12 months ago. The once feared Legion of Boom is a thing of the past and the entire defense is going through an overhaul as eight defenders expected to start against the Colts who last summer were not in their present spots. It could be a very rough going for the Seahawks as they start to launch a new era, especially just two weeks into the preseason. Play (273) Indianapolis Colts

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Marc Lawrence Aug 09 '18, 7:00 PM in 3h
NFLX | Bears vs Bengals
Play on: Bengals -2½ -110 at 5Dimes

Play - Cincinnati Bengals (Game 254).
Edges - Bengals : 6-2 SUATS Home One of the preseason; and revenge from 33-7 loss as 6-point favorites during the regular season last year … Bears: 3-7 ATS Game One preseason. With that we recommend a 1* play on Cincinnati. Thank you and good luck as always.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Scott Rickenbach Aug 09 '18, 10:00 PM in 6h
CFL | Edmonton vs BC
Play on: BC +3½ -105 at BMaker

Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CFL Game #352 Thursday Free Pick BC Lions (+) vs Edmonton Eskimos @ 10 PM ET - Although the Eskimos won the first meeting between these teams this season that game was at Edmonton. The rematch is at BC and the Lions are 8-4 SU and ATS the last 12 times they've hosted the Eskimos. Lions QB Travis Lulay has been playing well and, despite the Lions losing stretch SU, they have been getting the job done at the betting window. BC, despite only having a 2-4 SU record on the season is 4-2 ATS in those 6 games. They gave the undefeated Stampeders a good game last week and their two prior games were each decided by 4 points or less. The Lions continue to battle here and they catch an Edmonton team still in celebration mode as the Eskimos have won three straight games. Prior to this hot streak Edmonton was 8-9 SU their last 17 games dating back to last season and including post-season action. Line on Eskimos a little inflated here considering the home team has won all 6 Lions games SU this season. In other words, don't be surprised if that record goes to 7-0 and the home team gets the outright upset here. Free Pick BC Lions Thursday

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chase Diamond Aug 09 '18, 8:00 PM in 4h
NFLX | Titans vs Packers
Play on: Titans -105 at 5Dimes

This game features the Tennessee Titans and the Green Bay Packers. The Packers are the squarest play on the board tonight at the time I am writing this Thursday afternoon the Packers are getting 78% of the money bet which is a huge number yet this line is holding tight at a PK maybe -1 in some spots. Aaron Rodgers will see little to no action and there has been reports on the effort the Packers are making in training camp. Brett Hundley and Kizer are really not much in the way of NFL caliber QB and the Titans will see a'lot of Blaine Gabbert. I just think this game means more to the Titans and this number tells you all you need to know. Take the Titans for a 15* winner.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doc's Sports Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Rangers vs Yankees
Play on: Yankees -1½ -115 at betonline

Free MLB Baseball Prediction From Doc’s Sports :
Take N.Y. Yankees over Texas (7 p.m., Thursday, August 9)
We will have our 7-Unit College Football Futures Play available on Thursday with our first NFL selections of the season! We have posted three of four overall winning yeras and are ready for another big football season. The Yankees had the worst weekend in recent memory, losing all four games to the first-place Red Sox and falling 8.5 games behind the AL East monster. This lead is seemingly insurmountable, but they were going to have trouble catching Boston no matter what they did down the stretch. They have a great chance to stay in the driver's seat for a home Wild Card game if they take care of business the remainder of the month and use that momentum to roll into the Fall. The White Sox didn't pose much a test for them, but they have four-game series against a Ranger team that can be scary offensively at times. NY needs to find its pitching sooner than later, and this series opener will be treated as a playoff game like most games will be moving forward. Take the Bronx Bombers to win this one with little push back.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Larry Ness Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Red Sox vs Blue Jays
Play on: Red Sox -157 at GTBets

My free play is on the Bos Red Sox at 7:05. Boston rallied from three runs down in the 9th inning last Sunday night to beat the Yankees 5-4 in 10 innings. After that stirring four-game sweep of the rival Yankees at home, the Red Sox have produced 20 runs on 21 hits and 13 walks while claiming the first two games in Toronto by scores of 10-7 and 10-5. Boston now has a chance to win its seventh straight game plus pick up its second straight sweep and 12th overall in 2018, when the Red Sox wrap up a three-game series at the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday. The Red Sox own MLB's best record at 81-34 and lead the majors with 620 runs scored. They are 12-3 against the Blue Jays and 39-14 against the AL East. Toronto has dropped 11 games below .500 ( 51-62) to match its season worst, also reached on August 1. The Blue Jays take the field tonight having lost five straight home games (just 27-30 at Rogers Centre in 2018), including a three-game sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Twins on July 23-25.
Rick Porcello (14-4, 3.84 ERA) limited the Yankees to one hit - a solo home run - while striking out nine in his dominant win at home last Friday night. Porcello was lit up by Toronto (eight runs in two innings) at Fenway Park back on July 13 but is 3-0 with a 2.18 ERA in three starts since. However despite Porcello's strong bounce-back season in 2018, that July 13 outing reminds us of his career-long struggles vs the Blue Jays, against whom he has a 5.26 ERA in 24 games (23 starts).
Toronto lefty Ryan Borucki (1-2, 2.30) ERA) takes the mound having not allowed an earned run in two of his last three starts, including an eight-inning gem at Seattle on Friday. He has an ERA of 0.90 over that three-start stretch, during which he has walked just one batter in 20 innings. The surge began after Borucki gave up seven runs (four earned) in three innings opposite Porcello in that July 13th contest (Blue Jays won that game, 13-7).
Sure, Porcello has a poor history vs Toronto but he's returned to his 2016 form (22-4, 3.15 ERA) here in 2018. Even more important is that this Boston team has won 10 of its last 11, improving to 81-34. The team's .704 winning percentage puts this 2018 edition on pace to win 114 games, far surpassing the franchise-high 105 wins set by the 1912 Red Sox. Boston owns five previous road sweeps, as well as MLB's second-best road record this season (39-19). Boston's domination of Toronto (12-3 ) and of the AL East (39-14) here in 2018 makes a sixth road sweep for Boston the likely scenario. Play the Red Sox.
Good luck...Larry

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Joseph D'Amico Aug 09 '18, 10:00 PM in 6h
NFLX | Colts vs Seahawks
Play on: Seahawks -2 -101 at betonline

Every year, I get you paid in NFL exhibition play. This year, I do it again. This Thursday, I not only get you paid, I get you paid BIG TIME, as I have my NFLX CASH MONEY, HIGH ROLLER, and TOUCHDOWN PLAYS. Get 'em all and get paid BIG TIME.
Thursday's FREE NFLX WINNER: Seattle Seahawks.
Game 724.
7:00 pm pst.
Seattle does not have the same feared defense we are used to seeing. But they do have a 7-1 SU and ATS record the L2 pre-seasons. They need to start the campaign with a win to boost their confidence and get their fan base excited. Especially for e team picked to finished 3rd in the NFC West, which is very unfamiliar territory for the team and their loyal fans. Indy does not have too much besides a healthy Andrew Luck, who will not be jeopardized here.
Take the Seahawks. Thank you.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Dustin Hawkins Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Red Sox vs Blue Jays
Play on: Red Sox -153 at 5Dimes

Free Play on Red Sox -153

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sean Murphy Aug 09 '18, 7:00 PM in 3h
NFLX | Browns vs Giants
Play on: Giants +1 -105 at 5Dimes

Thursday NFLX Free play. My selection is on New York plus the points over Cleveland at 7 pm et on Thursday.
The Browns have been gaining support as the week has gone on and are now installed as a short favorite in their preseason opener against the Giants in New Jersey. I don't believe the line shift is warranted at all and will back the G-Men at a bargain basement price.
New York has a new head coach in Pat Shurmur and new offense and defensive schemes. There will undoubtedly be some growing pains but can any different be said of the Browns, who also feel they are ushering in a new era with a host of new players.
First overall pick Baker Mayfield is expected to see extensive action for Cleveland in this one. Whether that's a good or bad thing is up for debate. His charisma, not to mention rave reviews from his performance at training camp has loaded up the bandwagon ahead of this matchup. I'm just not convinced we'll see Mayfield outplay Giants backup QB Davis Webb, who has also by all accounts enjoyed a tremendous camp so far.
The Browns excelled in the preseason a year ago but we saw what that got them as they endured a winless regular season. Note that Hue Jackson-led teams are just 4-8 ATS in the preseason. Take New York (8*).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jesse Schule Aug 09 '18, 10:00 PM in 6h
CFL | Edmonton vs BC
Play on: BC +3½ -109 at GTBets

This is a Free #CFL play on the BC Lions. I cashed in a winner with the Lions as a double digit dog in their last game, a 27-18 loss on the road at Calgary. Veteran quarterback Travis Lulay had another solid game, throwing for 281 yards and a TD on 25-of-39 passing. The Edmonton Eskimos are second in the West with a 5-2 record, but many of their wins have come against inferior opponents. They didn't look all that impressive in a home and home series versus the Argos, losing 20-17 in Toronto and then winning by a single point at home. The Lions have only played two home games so far, winning both of them. The home team has won eight of the last 10 meetings between these teams, and the majority of those games have been decided by less than a TD. The Lions look good as a home dog getting a handful of points in a game that could go either way. Take BC. GL, Jesse Schule

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Martin Aug 09 '18, 7:05 PM in 3h
MLB | Red Sox vs Blue Jays
Play on: Blue Jays +155 at MyBookie

1 Unit FREE PLAY on Toronto Blue Jays +155
I’ll take a shot on the Toronto Blue Jays as big home underdogs to the Boston Red Sox tonight. Ryan Borucki is pithing very well this season and deserves more respect than he’s getting here. Borucki is 1-2 with a 2.30 ERA in seven starts this season, 0-1 with a 1.35 ERA in three home starts, and 1-1 with a 0.90 ERA in his last three starts. Rick Porcello is 10-9 with a 5.27 ERA in 23 previous starts against the Blue Jays. He gave up 8 earned runs and 11 base runners in 2 innings of a 7-13 loss to the Blue Jays in his last start against them on July 13th. Toronto is more than capable of pulling the upset tonight. Give me the Blue Jays.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Brandon Lee Aug 09 '18, 8:40 PM in 5h
MLB | LAD vs COL
Play on: OVER 10½ -104

10* FREE MLB PICK (Over 10.5)
I'll gladly take my chances here with the OVER 10.5. This might seem like a high total, but you have to handicap the totals differently at Colorado. The ball flies out of Coors Field this time of year and we have two starters coming into this game that have been struggling of late. Ross Stripling is 8-3 with a 3.04 ERA and 1.128 WHIP for the season, but owns a 3.55 ERA on the road and a 5.52 ERA and 1.500 WHIP over his last 3 starts. His last 2 outings have been especially bad. He allowed 5 runs on 7 hits in 4 2/3 innings at Philadelphia and 4 runs on 7 hits in 4 innings at Atlanta. Tyler Anders will take the mound for Colorado and he's got a 6.23 ERA over his last 3 starts, giving up 11 runs on 10 hits in his last 2 starts (10 innings). It's also worth noting that Stripling owns a m ere 4.50 ERA in 3 career starts against the Rockies and Anderson has a 4.09 ERA in 9 starts vs LA. Take the OVER!

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Lundin Aug 09 '18, 10:15 PM in 6h
MLB | Pirates vs Giants
Play on: Giants -134 at 5Dimes

#MLB FREE PICK FROM MIKE LUNDIN
The San Francisco Giants look like a solid home favorite here when they host the Pittsburgh Pirates for the opener of a four-game series.
Ivan Nova (6-6, 4.49 ERA) will take the ball for Pittsburgh. The right-hander was tagged with four runs on eight hits and four walks in just four innings against St. Louis his last time out. Nova owns a 5.40 ERA on the road (compared to a 3.55 ERA at home) and gave up four runs and eight hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Giants back in May.
Andrew Suarez (4-7, 4.60 ERA) will take the ball for San Francisco. He's coming off his worst start of the season when he gave up eight runs in five innings of a 9-3 loss at Arizona, but note that the left-hander has posted a solid 3.64 ERA in nine home starts on the season.
Giants are 6-2 in Suarez's last 8 starts vs. a team with a winning record. Pirates are 6-23 in their last 29 road games vs. a left-handed starter.
Free pick: San Francisco Giants.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tony Brown
Tonys *5 Mlb free play

Texas vs. NY Yankees, 08/09/2018 19:05 EDT

Total: -102/+9½ Under

Sportsbook:
PinnacleSports

Fp: both teams will have to average a run plus per inning to make this total go over . Just a lil bit of defense Nd decent pitching 10 runs to win will be a chore making the under my mlb free pick ‘

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Profit On Sports

MLB Atlanta +105

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Sports Consensus

MLB Giants over 8

[Can'tPickAWinner]

National Sports Service

NFL Seattle under 37

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Primetime Sports Picks

NFL Ravens under 36

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Elite Sports Picks

MLB Rockies over 10.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Spot Player

MLB Boston -155

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Insider Sports Report

MLB Boston under 9.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doc's Picks

NFL Baltimore -3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Vegas Consultants

NFL NEW YORK GIANTS +100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Brand X Sports

MLB HOUSTON ASTROS ‑160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Golden Lock Sports

NFL KANSAS CITY CHIEFS ‑2.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

DONNY ACTION

MLB ATLANTA BRAVES +110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Team Underground

NFL TENNESSEE TITANS 0

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Best Sports Capper

NFL NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS ‑2.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Picks 2 Play

NFL BUFFALO BILLS ‑3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

LPW Sports Forecast

WNBA SEATTLE STORM/WASHINGTON MYSTICS u172

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Power Play Wins

NFL PITTSBURGH STEELERS +3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Total Winner Sports

NFL BALTIMORE RAVENS ‑3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

VIP Sports Picks Las Vegas

NFL NEW ORLEANS SAINTS +3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tommy King Wins

NFL CAROLINA PANTHERS/BUFFALO BILLS o34

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Wise Guy Insider

NFL MIAMI DOLPHINS ‑1.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

First Half Sports

NFL MIAMI DOLPHINS ‑1.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tys Terrific Tips

NFL NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS ‑3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sports Watch Monitor

MLB MINNESOTA TWINS/CINCINNATI REDS +110 u7.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Valley Sports

NFL MIAMI DOLPHINS ‑1.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Wynn

Free Play: Free Texas/NY Yankees Under 9½ Runs

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Free Selection from Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp Pick, Thursday, August 9, 2018



8/09 05:40 PM PT / 8:40 PM ET

MLB (905) LOS ANGELES DODGERS VS (906) COLORADO ROCKIES

Take: (905) LOS ANGELES DODGERS

Reason: Your free play for Thursday, August 9, 2018 is in the MLB scheduled play between the LA Dodgers and the Colorado Rockies. Your free play is on the DODGERS.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jeff Allen Sports

Thursday's Free Selection is on the Boston Red Sox

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Razor Sharp

YOUR RAZOR SHARP FREE PICK FOR THURSDAY: Take WASHINGTON/NEW ENGLAND UNDER the total of 37½

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Totals4U

Thursday's Free Selection: Indianapolis Colts/Seattle Seahawks over 34 1/2

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John Anthony Sports

Thursday's Free Selection: Jacksonville Jaguars - 3

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Atlantic Sports

Thursday's Free Selection from Atlantic Sports: Houston Astros - 150

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#1 Sports

Thursday's Free Selection: Baltimore Ravens - 3

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Easy Money Sports

Lee's Free Thursday Selection Is

Carolina +3

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Nevada Sharpshooter

Your free winner for Thursday: Take CHICAGO/CINCINNATI UNDER the total of 35½

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Huddle Up Sports

Thursday Free Play: Houston Verlander -152

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Hawkeye Sports

Thursday's Free Pick: NY Yankees - 210

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Golden Dragon Sports

FREE WINNER for THURSDAY: Boston Porcello -153

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Arthur Ralph Sports

FREE play: THURS Over 37 Redskins/Pats

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Teyas Sports

FREE PICK 8/9 TWINS +190

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Platinum Plays

Free Pick the Pittsburgh/San Francisco Game UNDER 8 Runs

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The Vegas Steam Line

Your free winner for Thursday: Take TENNESSEE/GREEN BAY OVER the total of 35

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High Stakes Syndicate

Free Selection for Thursday: New York Yankees - 210

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Sharp Bettor
SharpBettor FREE Play for Thursday, August 9, 2018

8/09 05:40 PM MLB (905) LOS ANGELES DODGERS (R STRIPLING - R) VS (906) COLORADO ROCKIES (T ANDERSON - L)

Take : Dodgers

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Roz Wins

Roz's Thursday August 9, 2018, Free Pick


8/09 04:00 PM NFL (251) CAROLINA PANTHERS VS (252) BUFFALO BILLS

Take : Bills

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The Last Call

Thursday's Free Play: Baltimore Orioles + 185

[JoeDirt]

Thanks for the post CPAW! Glad to see you are still here! Football is back!