12-28-13

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Today's NHL Picks

Boston at Ottawa

The Bruins look to follow up last night's 5-0 win over the Senators and take advantage of Ottawa's 0-8 record in its last 8 games when playing with 0 days of rest. Boston is the pick (-135) according to Dunkel, which has the Bruins favored by 2 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Boston (-135). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28 Time Posted: 7:00 a.m. EST

Game 51-52: Detroit at Florida (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 11.770; Florida 10.326 Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 1 1/2; 5 Vegas Line & Total: No Line Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 53-54: Montreal at Tampa Bay (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 11.187; Tampa Bay 10.100 Dunkel Line & Total: Montreal by 1; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Tampa Bay (-130); 5 Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+110); Over

Game 55-56: Boston at Ottawa (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Boston 12.626; Ottawa 10.301 Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 2 1/2; 4 Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-135); 5 Dunkel Pick: Boston (-135); Under

Game 57-58: New Jersey at NY Islanders (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 11.808; NY Islanders 10.015 Dunkel Line & Total: New Jersey by 2; 6 1/2 Vegas Line & Total: NY Islanders (-135); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: New Jersey (+115); Over

Game 59-60: Chicago at St. Louis (7:30 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 12.989; St. Louis 10.838 Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 2; 5 Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-140); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+120); Under

Game 61-62: Phoenix at Anaheim (8:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Phoenix 10.658; Anaheim 12.570 Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 2; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Anaheim (-170); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (-170); Over

Game 63-64: Los Angeles at Nashville (8:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 12.672; Nashville 9.986 Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 2 1/2; 5 1/2 Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles (-160); 5 Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-160); Over

Game 65-66: Philadelphia at Edmonton (10:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 10.785; Edmonton 11.843 Dunkel Line & Total: Edmonton by 1; 4 Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia (-120); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (+100); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Aaron's Analysis


New Era Pinstripe Bowl





224 Notre Dame Fighting Irish minus 14 over Rutgers Scarlet Knights



The #25 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (8-4) take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (6-6) on Saturday in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in New York City. The Fighting Irish are coming off of a 27-20 loss at #5 Stanford to end the season. The Scarlet Knights back into this one losers of five of their last seven. They only became bowl eligible following a 31-6 victory over South Florida in their final game. The Irish, on the other hand, were winners of five of their last seven. Other than losing to the Cardinal, their only other loss during that span was a 28-21 loss at Pittsburgh, a game in which they outgained the Panthers 456-355, but three turnovers proved costly. Between these two teams the Irish by far had a tougher schedule, as they took on nine bowl teams, five of which are currently ranked. Their record over those nine games was a modest 5-4. Rutgers, in comparison, only took on five bowl teams, two ranked. They were winless in those five games. Looking more closely at their final seven games, the Scarlet Knights were only victorious over Temple and South Florida, two teams capping off the season with 2-10 records. Even 3-9 Connecticut was too much for them, as they fell to the Huskies 28-17. In those five defeats in the latter half of the season, the Scarlet Knights didn’t just lose, they were blown out by the average score of 39-15. Matching up the offenses and defenses in this one, what appears to be a mismatch is the Notre Dame passing game versus the Rutgers secondary. The Scarlet Knights allowed an abysmal 311.4 yards per game versus the pass, and an even more horrid 323.3 yards per game in their final four. Notre Dame ranks a respectable #47 in the nation passing, averaging 249.5 yards per game. Over their last five, that average escalates to 265. Irish QB Tommy Rees has been superb, passing for 2,938 yards, 53.7% completions, 27 TDs versus 13 INTs and a 138.1 passer rating. His #1 target is receiver T.J. Jones, who caught 65 passes for 1,042 yards and 9 TDs to go along with 51 yards and 1 TD rushing. DaVaris Daniels gives defenses another receiver to worry about, as he has added 46 catches for 720 yards and 7 TDs. Rounding out the top targets is tight end Troy Niklas, as he has caught 28 passes for 422 yards and 5 TDs. Although the Scarlet Knights have a rather tough rush defense, allowing an average of 94.6 yards per game, they showed vulnerability versus Louisville and Houston, two other bowl opponents, as those two were able to put up a combined 362 yards on the ground. Notre Dame counters with a solid ground game, averaging 149 yards per game, 166.3 over their last eight. They should be able to put up a decent effort here, with the likes of backs Cam McDaniel (625 yards rushing and 3 TDs), George Atkinson III (555 yards rushing and 3 TDs, 51 receiving), and Tarean Folston (397 yards rushing and 2 TDs). Rutgers is ranked just #98 in the nation rushing the ball, sporting an average of 133.7 yards per game and just 98 over their last five, led by back Paul James. Starting at quarterback for the third straight game for the Scarlet Knights is Chas Dodd, recently taking over duties for Gary Nova. Over the final two games Dodd was 35 for 59 for 465 yards and 2 TDs to go along with 2 INTs. He should run into some problems passing the ball versus an Irish defense allowing a solid 201.7 yards per game. Rees, Jones and Daniels should be able to put up big numbers in the passing game versus a terrible Rutgers secondary. The Scarlet Knights more than struggled against some soft opposition in the second half of the season, while the Irish more than held their own versus one of the nation’s toughest schedules. For the Irish going up against the Scarlet Knights is actually quite a big drop off from teams like Stanford, Michigan State, Oklahoma, USC and Arizona State. Although an 8-4 record does not exactly size up to a BCS Championship Game appearance as they were able to achieve last year, the Irish should be able to come away with a dominating bowl victory in this one.


FIGHTING IRISH 45-21 (3 Units)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Paul Leiner

100* Cincinnati +2.5

100* UConn -6

50* St Johns -8.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BeatYourBookie

SATURDAY

NBA Basketball


10* Play Los Angeles Clippers -13.5 over Utah (NBA TOP PLAY)
10* Play Phoenix -11 over Philadelphia (NBA TOP PLAY)


NCAA Basketball


10* Play South Florida -1 over Bradley (NCAA TOP PLAY)
10* Play Louisville -2.5 over Kentucky (NCAA TOP PLAY)


NHL Hockey


10* Play Philadelphia +100 over Edmonton (NHL TOP PLAY)
10* Play Chicago +120 over St. Louis (NHL TOP PLAY)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

R.A.W. FOOTBALL - SATURDAY

4* BEST BET = LOUISVILLE
3* = "OVER" LOUISVILLE/MIAMI(FLA)
2* = KANSAS STATE
2* = CINCINNATI
2* = "UNDER" on MICHIGAN/KANSAS STATE

[Can'tPickAWinner]

BEE from cappersadvantage

Game: Rutgers vs. Notre Dame 12:00 PM EST
Pick: #223 Over 53 (-120)
1.2 Units

Game: Miami vs. Louisville 6:45 PM EST
Pick: #227 Over 57 (-120)
1.2 Units

Game: Cincy vs. UNC 3:25 PM EST
Pick: #225 Over 57 (-110)
1.1 Units

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Intpicks

3* Kansas St -5.5
2* Louisville -4.5
1* Notre Dame -14
1* Memphis -2
1* Memphis -2
1* Gonzaga -16

[Can'tPickAWinner]

THE GOLD SHEET

★★★ KEY RELEASES ★★★
LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT by 2 over Byu (Sat., Dec. 28 Day)
SOUTH FLORIDA by 9 over Bradley (Sat., Dec. 28)
UNLV by 23 over Cal. St. Fullerton (Sat., Dec. 28)

GEORGETOWN 82 - Florida Intl. 57—With G’Town in a dour mood
ruminating over its 86-64 crushing at Kansas in the previous game, willing to lay
the lumber vs. outmanned FIU, which was overwhelmed by the only other team
it has faced on the same level, L’Ville, which destroyed the Golden Panthers 85-
56 Dec. 21. Good bet the Hoyas move their feet more on defense instead of
trying to physical, as they tried vs. the Jayhawks, resulting in three starters
fouling out after only 19 minutes. 12-DNP

SYRACUSE 72 - Villanova 68—Though no longer a Big East battle, this
remains a featured rivalry clash, especially with both sides entering unbeaten.
But note that most ‘Nova performers are quite familiar with the Carrier Dome
surroundings, and that the veteran Wildcat backcourt, led by 6-6 sr. James Bell
(scoring career-best 15.4 ppg), has already proven up to such challenges with
a win at last month’s Bahamas Paradise Jam. Points should work, as this one
likely goes down to the last minute. 12-SYR -14' 72-61, VIL +7 75-71 (OT)
TV—CBS

DUKE 80 - Eastern Michigan 66—With EMU already covering as a DD road
underdog at Kentucky & Purdue in earlier preconference action, might
considering taking high price vs. Duke squad that has failed to cover DDs in its
last three home tilts. Eagles showed good ball movement and noteworthy
discipline in their 81-79 OT victory at Oakland, with 18 dimes & only 5 TOs.
EMU’s active 7-0 jr. C Da’Shonte Riley (6.3 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 3.7 bpg) should
prevent the Blue Devils from many second-chance opportunities. Plus, the
Eagles are benefiting from a pair of DD-scorers off the bench in 6-3 soph G Ray
Lee (12.8 ppg) & Division II All-American transfer Karrington Ward (15.6 ppg).
12-DNP CABLE TV—ESPN2

Southern Miss over RHODE ISLAND by 4 to 6—12-DNP

Harvard 74 - FORDHAM 62—It’s not quite the Digger Phelps days with
Charlie Yelverton leading the charge, but they’re a bit excited at Fordham with
Tom Pecora’s Rams in rarified air over .500, especially since dynamic frosh G
Jon Severe (20.1 ppg) has lent a much sharper edge to the attack. But Severe’s
green light to shoot (he’s casting off almost 17 times pg and hitting on only 35%
from floor) could end up boomeranging against a seasoned foe such as
Harvard, with its deep and upperclassmen-laden backcourt not likely to give
Severe much room to maneuver. Almost all of the Rams’ scoring is coming
from the perimeter. Much prefer the inside-outside balance of Tommy
Amaker’s Crimson, though 6-7 sr. F Kyle Casey is well-advised to avoid foul
problems that have limited his minutes in recent outings. 12-HAR -14' 73-64

Illinois 73 - ILL.-CHICAGO 66—With this game for Illinois sandwiched
between its satisfying 65-64 victory over border rival Missouri and its Big Ten
home opener vs. Indiana, would consider taking hefty number with quietlyimproving
ICU, which has covered six consecutive as an underdog. Expect a
highly-aroused performance from Flames’ explosive 6-5 PG Kelsey Barlow
(16.6 ppg, 4.5 apg, ), who renews his acquaintances with Illinois after playing
three years at Purdue before transferring. Illini 0-2-1 vs. spread as a visitor TY.
(at United Ctr.) 12-DNP

ARIZONA ST. 80 - UC Irvine 64—UCI has been able to notch a few
significant road upsets (notably at Washington and Denver) because of the
matchup problems it can cause with its tall frontline that for an increasing
number of minutes each game includes 7-6 frosh Mamadou Ndiaye, who can
have a distorting impact upon the proceedings if he stays out of foul trouble. But
the Anteaters have also lost contact a few times away from its Bren Center when
not able to trade points, which would seem a risk for UCI at Tempe against an
explosive ASU squad, paced by electric soph G Jahii Carson (19.6 ppg). 12-
DNP

St. John’s 64 - Columbia 57—While occasional efforts suggest Steve
Lavin’s St. John’s can compete in the Big East race, the Red Storm (4-5 vs. line)
has hardly been an automatic go-with proposition. Better value might lie with
combative Columbia side that has managed to stay within touching distance
away from Morningside Heights vs. the formidable likes of Michigan State and
MEAC favorite Manhattan. Coach Kyle Smith’s side does an effective job
controlling tempo, and everyone in the Lion lineup can shoot the triple (led by
soph G Grant Mullins at 12.3 ppg). (at Barclays Center) 12-DNP

CINCINNATI 61 - Nebraska 57—Here’s a chance to find out how far
Nebraska has progressed in its second year of the Tim Miles regime. Early
indicators have been mostly positive for the Cornhuskers, who have received a
significant scoring boost from 6-6 Texas Tech transfer Terran Petteway (16.8
ppg). Meanwhile, inconsistent scoring from the Cincy frontline has been putting
a lot of pressure on star Bearcat G Sean Kilpatrick (18.9 ppg) to carry Bearcats’
attack-end burden. “Totals” alert—Note Cincy “under” all six posted “totals” to
date. 12-DNP CABLE TV—ESPN2

George Washington 77 - HOFSTRA 63—Regional sources continue to
closely watch Mike Lonergan’s under-the-radar GWU, which has caused a bit of
a stir with wins over Creighton and Maryland, suggesting the Colonials could be
a factor in the A-10 race. Especially with Indiana transfer G Maurice Creek (16.8
ppg) staying healthy, which was a tall order for him in Bloomington. Hofstra has
covered a few inflated numbers earlier in the season, but the Pride lacks the
resources to stay within earshot of this one, even on Long Island. 12-GWU -8
80-56

Louisville 81 - KENTUCKY 72—At a short price, prefer to back L’Ville,
which is 8-3 as visiting chalk the L1+Ys. Don’t believe that UK’s collection of
“diaper dandies” have the either reached the maturity level or have displayed
the esprit de corps to knock off the highly-cohesive Cards, who go deeper
(count ‘em, 12) than LY’s national champs. Wildcat mentor John Calipari is still
clearly unsatisfied with the erratic play of his blue-chip frosh PG Andrew
Harrison, who is often replaced by former walk-on sr. Jarrod Polson. Look for
the stifling L’Ville halfcourt defense (60.4 ppg) to help ignite its devastating
transition game, featuring dazzling 6-0 sr. Russ Smith (16.8 ppg, 5.0 apg). 12-
LVL -7' 80-77 TV—CBS

SOUTH CAROLINA 74 - Akron 65—Though Akron is seeking to avenge its
69-59 upset loss to South Carolina in the Diamond Head Classic consolation
game on Wednesday, we still prefer to support the resurgent Gamecocks, who
managed to defeat the Zips despite hitting only 2 of 9 from tripleville. USC’s
fiery mentor Frank Martin has recruited a plethora of athletic, high-character
players, including 6-5 frosh G Sindarius Thornwell & 6-2 frosh Canadian Duane
Notice, who combined for 27 points & 9 rebounds in that 10-pt. victory. 13-USC
+4' 69-59 (neut.); 12-DNP CABLE TV—ESPNU

★★★ LOYOLA-MARYMOUNT 73 - Byu 71—Veteran, maturing LMU (4
starters back)—which is already only three victories short of LY’s total of 11—
is geeked for this rematch after suffering LY’s 92-51 demolition in Provo. So,
must “take” 3+ hoops with the roaring Lions, who’re 8-3 as a home underdog the
past 2+ terms. The offensive-minded Cougs don’t display as much energy on
the stop end, allowing a whopping 95 ppg as a visitor TY. With LMU’s star sr.
PG Anthony Ireland (19.2 ppg, 5.3 apg) now benefiting from steady scoring
support from the highly-touted frosh duo of 6-7 F Gabe Levin (12.7 ppg) & 6-2
G Evan Payne (14.1 ppg), Max Good’s quintet is good enough to gets its
revenge. 12-BYU -14' 92-51, Byu -8' 73-70

Night Games
XAVIER 65 - Wake Forest 63—Another opportunity to gauge the progress
Jeff Bzdelik might (or might not) be making in what could turn out to be a makeor-
break season for his future at Wake Forest. Early indicators are mostly
positive for the Deacs, whose only losses have been in the Bahamas Paradise
Jam vs. Kansas & Tennessee. Early backcourt contributions from soph G Codi
Miller-McIntyre (17.5 ppg) and Robert Morris transfer Coron Williams (10.4
ppg), plus the emergence of 6-9 soph Devin Thomas (9.8 rpg) as a frontline
force to complement long-serving F Travis McKie (11 ppg) have provided some
useful inside-outside balance to the attack. Meanwhile, “X” can struggle when
top scorer G Semaj Christon (14.9 ppg) is off the mark. The Musketeers not
helping themselves with their subpar 63% FT shooting, which can jeopardize
any potential late leads. 12-WFU +2 66-59

Kansas St. 69 - Tulane 62—Since the oddsmakers continue to undervalue
youthful Tulane (according to the TGS power ratings), willing to take an inflated
price with a Green Wave quintet displaying a noticeable growth spurt in its 65-
62 home upset win over Northeastern last Sunday. KSU might not quickly come
down off cloud nine following its 72-62 upset of Gonzaga in Wichita last
Saturday. Since the offensively-choppy Wildcats have managed to surpass 72
points only once this season (vs. Central Arkansas), good chance developing
Tulane hangs inside generous impost in this clash in NYC. The Green Wave’s
springy 6-3 super-soph G Louis Dabney (19.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg) is the most lethal
scorer on this floor. (at Brooklyn, NY) 12-DNP

MASSACHUSETTS 82 - Providence 66—That was hardly a “sell” signal for
UMass in its tight 60-55 loss last Saturday vs. Florida State, the Minutemen’s
first SU setback of the campaign. Remember, Derek Kellogg’s side had
covered eight straight previously, standing in stark contrast to Providence’s
recent pointspread struggles (no covers last five). Regional scout like the style
matchup, as some suggest HC Ed Cooley has too tight of a rein on his Friars,
stressing halfcourt offense that might not best utilize the talents of bomberdeluxe
G Bryce Cotton (19.1 ppg). Playing at a faster pace, expect UMass and
go-go G Chaz Williams (15.7 ppg) to take advantage. 12-Mass -8 77-75 (neut.)
CABLE TV—ESPNU

RICHMOND 73 - Old Dominion 63—With ODU gaining some confidence
from its 69-57 upset at UNC Wilmington last Saturday, suggest taking DDs vs.
UR aggregrate only 11-16 as home chalk the L2+Ys. With the Monarchs’
blossoming 6-5 soph Aaron Bacote (only 7.8 ppg LY; 17.6 ppg TY) significantly
elevating his game, ODU stays within earshot of the methodical, low-variance
Spiders, who’ve surpassed the 74-pt. plateau only once this season. Surely,
the more offensively-skilled Monarchs are bound to shoot straighter after
converting an ugly 31.7% FGs (19 of 60) in LY’s numbing 80-53 home series
slaughter. 12-Rich -5' 80-53

Cleveland State 72 - KENT ST. 71—With experienced CSU performing
much better away from home than it did a year ago, suggest “taking” with the
Vikings (only 2-12 visiting dog LY; 3-2 alreadyTY), who easily covered in 68-61
setback at Kentucky and lost in OT at tough Drexel in highly-combative
preconference outings. With CSU jacked-up to avenge LY’s 72-55 home defeat
to instate foe KSU (the Vikes trailed just 43-41 in 2nd H before the Golden
Flashes went on 28-10 run), the nicely-balanced Vikings (six between 7.9 ppg
& 17.9 ppg) capable of pulling off a minor upset. 12-Ksu -1' 72-55

Va. Commonwealth 76 - Boston College 60—Slower and less-athletic BC
at a potential disadvantage vs. “Shaka Ball,” which rediscovered its mojo last
weekend when VCU ran roughshod over another ACC foe, Virginia Tech, in an
82-52 blowout. The Eagles run the risk of being turned over in transition by the
ball-hawking Rams, who are developing a sharper edge on the attack with 6-3
soph Melvin Johnson (11 ppg and 43% beyond arc) emerging as a new scoring
force. Since a pair of covers vs. UConn and Washington at the Madison Square
Garden tourney in November (and a SU win over the Huskies), BC has not
covered a pointspread. (at Brooklyn, NY) 12-DNP

★★★ South Florida 72 - BRADLEY 63—Sliding BU is in the midst of a fivegame
losing streak, including disturbing upset losses to IUPUI & IPFW,
provoking an SOS signal from the Brave faithful. With still-rebuilding,
offensively-challenged BU (61 ppg last 5) barely possessing one legit longrange
marksman in 6-4 G Omari Grier (Florida Atlantic transfer, hitting a
not-so-great 33.7% from downtown), must strongly endorse a seasoned USF
bunch expected to be back to full strength with the return of irreplaceable PG
Anthony Collins, who was sorely missed in mistake-filled losses to Mississippi
State & Santa Clara in the Las Vegas Classic last week. The Bulls’ nifty 6-0 jr.
combo G Corey Allen (12.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 3.2 apg) has made a seamless
transition from the JC ranks. With the unassertive Braves still having nobody to
effectively cope with USF’s agile 6-9 sr. F Victor Rudd (16.1 ppg, 7.3 rpg TY; 15
& 12 in LY’s 19-pt. home romp) down low, Stan Heath’s crew gets back on the
winning track in Peoria. 12-USF -6' 82-63

NORTH CAROLINA ST. 76 - Missouri 69—Last weekend’s loss to Illinois
might have uncovered a few cracks in the foundation of Missouri, which was not
challenged vs. a mostly easy slate prior to facing the Illini. Which has not
surprised SEC insiders who suggested Frank Haith might not find it easy to
replace four starters from LY’s Big Dance entry despite the early contributions
of 6-5 Tulsa transfer Jordan Clarkson (19.9 ppg). Meanwhile, NCS appears to
be gaining momentum with seven SU wins in a row, as Mark Gottfried has
learned how to fit newcomers frosh Anthony Barber (12.4 ppg; 49% FGs) & LSU
transfer Ralston Turner (9.5 ppg) into the Wolfpack backcourt alongside
machine-gun like soph T.J. Warren (23.7 ppg). 12-DNP CABLE TV—ESPN2

PEPPERDINE over San Diego by 1 to 3—12-Usd +1' 62-50, USD -5' 76-69,
Usd -3' 62-59 (CT-neut.)

GONZAGA over Santa Clara by 13 to 16—12-Gon -5' 81-74, GON -13 85-
42 CABLE TV—ESPNU

PORTLAND over San Francisco by 11 to 14—12-Usf -1' 75-72, Por +9' 78-
76

UCLA 82 - Alabama 66—Alabama’s befuddled HC Anthony Grant is still
unable to solve his team’s ongoing interior defense and perimeter shooting
issues, evidenced by back-to-back home losses to Wichita State & Xavier in its
previous two contests. So, would have to shade high-octane UCLA (86.4 ppg),
out for a razor-sharp performance prior to its big Pac-12 opener vs. hated
crosstown rival USC on Jan. 5. The sharp-shooting Bruins (40% beyond arc)
able to “stretch out” the Tide defense with their accurate 3-point gunning, while
their gifted backcourt duo of 6-9 soph PG Kyle Anderson (14.7 ppg, 6.7 apg) &
6-5 soph Jordan Adams (18.9 ppg) outshines Bama’s backcourt duo of 6-0 sr.
Trevor Releford & 6-5 Levi Randolph. 12-DNP CABLE TV—ESPN2

COLORADO 80 - Georgia 60—Not jumping on any Georgia bandwagons
just because the Bulldogs have won five in a row (a quick glimpse at the very
beatable recent opposition will tell you why). Especially since HC Mark Fox is
still looking for a go-to scorer following Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s early jump
into the NBA (at 13.4 ppg, soph G Charles Mann might be an option, but he’s
taking only about 8 shots pg...not go-to stuff). Much prefer the depth and
athleticism on Colorado side that can likely extend this margin as long as Gs
Spencer Dinwiddie (19.5 ppg last four) and Askia Booker (scored 19 in narrow
loss to highly-ranked Ok State last Saturday) continue to tap recent rich scoring
vein. 12-DNP

★★★ UNLV 79 - CS Fullerton 56—New Fullerton HC Dedrique Taylor being
careful not to push the pace with his depth-shy Titan squad that is playing
several speeds slower than recent editions. Eventually, however, UNLV’s
superior depth is bound to cause problems for CSF, which has no matchups for
the Rebels’ NBA-caliber frontliners Khem Birch (3.8 blocks pg) and rebound
machine Roscoe Smith (13.1 rpg). UNLV is also getting a nice boost from
Mississippi State transfer G Deville Smith (18 ppg and MVP honors in LV
Classic Tourney at the Orleans Area earlier in week). Note five SU wins and
eight covers in a row for Dave Rice’s Rebels. 12-DNP

NEVADA 74 - Long Beach St. 70—Despite running off several unproductive
frontliners after last season, David Carter’s Nevada still relying almost solely
upon Gs Deonte Burton, Jerry Evans, and UTEP transfer Mike Perez for its
points. The Wolf Pack depth a bit compromised with soph G Marqueze
Coleman sidelined for a couple of weeks with eye problems. Most Big West
sources believe Long Beach is worth monitoring now that UCLA transfer G Tyler
Lamb became eligible in mid-December. 12-DNP

Alcorn St. vs. Denver—No Prediction

Western Illinois vs. UTEP—No Prediction

[Can'tPickAWinner]

World Class Capper

England Soccer

5* Manchester City vs Crystal Palace
Over 3.5 goals @ -110

5* Manchester City vs Crystal Palace
Over 1.5 goals first half @ -104

3* West Ham vs West brom
Under 2.5 goals @ -121

3* Sunderland vs Cardiff City
Under 2 goals @ +126

NCAAF

3* Rutgers vs Notre Dame
Under 53 points @ -110

5* Louisville -4.5 point spread @ -110

5* North Carolina -3 @ +100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations™ - FoxSheets

CBB CORNELL at ST PETERS
Play On - Road underdogs of 10 or more points (CORNELL) after 8 or more consecutive losses, playing only their 2nd game in 8 days
84-42 since 1997. ( 66.7% 37.8 units )

CBB VILLANOVA at SYRACUSE
Play Against - Road underdogs of +145 to +350 vs. the money line (VILLANOVA) after 6 or more consecutive wins, playing with 5 or 6 days rest
61-11 since 1997. ( 84.7% 37.3 units )
0-2 this year. ( 0.0% -3.5 units )

CBB VA COMMONWEALTH at BOSTON COLLEGE
Play On - Underdogs of 6 or more points vs. the first half line (BOSTON COLLEGE) excellent ball handling team - committing <=12 turnovers/game, after 2 straight games forcing opponent to commit 11 or less turnovers
87-44 since 1997. ( 66.4% 38.6 units )
7-7 this year. ( 50.0% -0.7 units )

[Can'tPickAWinner]

StatFox Super Situations™ - FoxSheets

NHL BOSTON at OTTAWA
Play On - Any team against the money line (BOSTON) off a home win where they shut out their opponent, with a winning record in the first half of the season
88-31 over the last 5 seasons. ( 73.9% 49.8 units )
14-2 this year. ( 87.5% 11.8 units )

NHL MONTREAL at TAMPA BAY
Play On - Home teams against the money line (TAMPA BAY) off a blowout win by 4 goals or more over a division rival against opponent off a road win
24-5 over the last 5 seasons. ( 82.8% 19.0 units )
2-1 this year. ( 66.7% 0.7 units )

NHL PHILADELPHIA at EDMONTON
Play Against - Home underdogs against the money line (EDMONTON) revenging a same season loss vs opponent, a bad team (30% to 40%) playing a team with a losing record
29-5 over the last 5 seasons. ( 85.3% 22.5 units )
2-0 this year. ( 100.0% 2.0 units )

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Joe Gavazzi

CBB
5* Nebraska+11
5* South Florida-1
4* Villanova+4
4* Illinois Chicago+13
4* Louisville-1
4* VCU-10

College Bowls
4* Miami (FLA)
4* Michigan

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Rainman

3-North Carolina
3-Louisville
1-Notre Dame
1-Michigan

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chase Diamond

9* Holy Cross +16

[Can'tPickAWinner]

English Breakfast: Premier League betting cheat sheet

The busy holiday schedule continues on the weekend with six games Saturday and four Sunday. The latter features the biggest matchups for this round, but both Manchester clubs are in action and the blue half will look to extend its home dominance Saturday.


West Ham v West Brom (+138, +240, +225)

Why bet West Ham: The Hammers currently sit 19th and their next couple of matches could go a long way for their season. A home fixture against West Brom is a great opportunity for the struggling side to get a key three points in a cramped holiday schedule. They had a lead against Arsenal in their last game but squandered that and ultimately lost. A loss to the Gunners is forgivable, but leaving points on the table against the Baggies won't be.

Key players out/doubtful: Mladen Petric, Andy Carroll, Winston Reid, Ricardo Vaz Te, Stewart Downing

Why bet West Brom: The Baggies left London with a point against Tottenham Boxing Day which is a big result against a much bigger club. Parlaying that into some good form against the struggling West Ham would be excellent for the club's quest for survival. The team is healthy and will be hungry to build on back-to-back draws in their last two outings.

Key players out/doubtful: Victor Anichebe

2012-13 fixture result: West Ham 3, West Brom 1

Key betting note: The Hammers are unbeaten in their last five matches against West Brom in all competitions.


Aston Villa v Swansea (+180, +225, +175)

Why bet Aston Villa: Hard to defend a club that has four straight losses, but Villa is supposed to be much better than what we've seen. They knocked off Arsenal in the first game of the season, but haven't yet lived up to some of the promise. Christian Benteke has been mired in an awful slump and Gabby Agbonlahor hasn't found the form we should see from him. Perhaps Paul Lambert's job being on the line will kick this talented side into gear.

Key players out/doubtful: Jores Okore, Charles N'Zogbia

Why bet Swansea: The Swans have lost back-to-back matches and need to adjust to life without last year's hero Michu. Wilfried Bony hasn't really cashed in as a goalscorer for the club, but this is a team that can still play. They kept Chelsea close on the scoresheet and fired eight shots goal, but just one on target. The club was supposed to compete for top-6, but haven't fulfilled that promise of yet.

Key players out/doubtful: Michu, Michel Vorm, Garry Monk, Nathan Dyer

2012-13 fixture result: Villa 2, Swansea 0

Key betting note: Villa hasn't scored in five of its last six home games.


Hull v Fulham (+105, +240, +310)

Why bet Hull: The Tigers strung together three-straight draws before falling to Manchester United - barely - by a score of 3-2 on Boxing Day. Hull remains a competitive side that no club should take lightly and will not only fight to stay in the top flight, but could compete for a top-10 position.

Key players out/doubtful: Robbie Brady, Sone Aluko, Stephen Quinn

Why bet Fulham: Low and behold. The Cottagers nabbed three points at Carrow Road with a 2-1 win over Norwich on Boxing Day. An equalizer from the very good Pajtim Kasami and the winner from Scott Parker gave Fulham a seriously important three points. They've struggled mightily this season, but some brilliant passages of play - and goals - give this team hope.

Key players out/doubtful: Philippe Senderos, Brede Hangeland, Matthew Briggs

2012-13 fixture result: N/A

Key betting note: Eight of Fulham's last nine games have gone over the 2.5 goal total.


Manchester City v Crystal Palace (-800, +850, +2800)

Why bet Manchester City: The Citizens are at home where they are 9-0-0 on the season. The latest victim was a very good Liverpool team, that managed to keep it close at 2-1. The team will look to score in bunches and pile on the goal differential total should positioning come down to that in the end of the season.

Key players out/doubtful: Sergio Aguero, Micah Richards

Why bet Palace: Ummmmm... Marouane Chamakh returns from suspension? I got nothin'.

Key players out/doubtful: Adlene Guedioura, Jerome Thomas

2012-13 fixture result: N/A

Key betting note: With 37 goals in nine matches, City average a little over four goals per game at the Etihad Stadium this season.


Norwich v Manchester United (+550, +320, -175)

Why bet Norwich: Despite the loss last time out, the Canaries have played much better football of late. They actually had the lead against Fulham behind Gary Hooper's goal, buy squandered that lead en route to the loss. They have two wins, two draws and two losses in their last six and though the loss to Fulham will hurt, the Canaries will be keen to get a good result at home against big, bad, though injury-riddled Man United.

Key players out/doubtful: Alexander Tettey, Elliott Bennett, Anthony Pilkington

Why bet Manchester United: The Red Devils have been red-hot without superstar Robin van Persie leading the line. They've won three-straight and grabbing full points during the crammed holiday schedule will go a long way in the club's quest for European football and to put David Moyes' rough start in the rear-view mirror.

Key players out/doubtful: Marouane Fellaini, Rafael, Antonio Valencia, Robin van Persie, Nani, Michael Carrick

2012-13 fixture result: Norwich 1, United 0

Key betting note: Manchester United's last seven away match scorelines have all gone over the 2.5 goal total.


Cardiff v Sunderland (+140, +225, +230)

Why bet Cardiff: Poor Cardiff was throttled 3-0 by a desperate Southampton side on Boxing Day and is tumbling toward the bottom of the table and should come out hungry versus the last placed Black Cats. The Blue Birds started out the season quite decently, but since some of owner Vincent Tan's mind boggling decisions earlier in the season, they just haven't been the same. Sadly, manager Malky Mackay's job might be on the line.

Key players out/doubtful: Craig Bellamy

Why bet Sunderland: We've preached all along that Sunderland was a better side than what we've seen and they played an excellent game to grab all three points against Everton. With three consecutive clean sheets, they've found very good defensive form, now they must find some consistent goalscoring. American Jozy Altidore was brought in to contribute but just hasn't found his stride, so we may see Steven Fletcher leading the line Saturday.

Key players out/doubtful: Keiren Westwood, Carlos Cuéllar, Wes Brown

2012-13 fixture result: N/A

Key betting note: The Black Cats have kept scorelines under 2.5 goals in their last five away matches.