Sunday 9-24-17 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 24, 2017
Where: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan


Preview: Falcons at Lions

Gracenote
Sep 22, 2017

The Atlanta Falcons look to continue their march through the NFC North when they visit the Detroit Lions in a matchup of undefeated teams on Sunday. The Falcons are 2-0 after posting wins over Chicago and Green Bay as they aim to return to the Super Bowl for the second straight year.


The Lions are 2-0 for the first time since 2011 and have been surprisingly tough on defense, especially against the run. “They've stepped up to the challenge for two weeks, but there's a third one looming, and a very good one at that,” Lions coach Jim Caldwell told reporters. "The minute you start talking about what you think you've gotten done in this league, you end up getting your ears kicked in." Atlanta’s balanced offense, which is led by quarterback Matt Ryan and running back Devonta Coleman, will provide a tougher challenge than the Lions have faced thus far. Ryan has torched Detroit for 507 yards with six touchdowns and one interception in the last two meetings.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Falcons -3. O/U: 50.5


ABOUT THE FALCONS (2-0): Atlanta’s offense hasn’t been quite as explosive as it was a year ago, but the Falcons have been efficient and have yet to commit a turnover. After a sub-par effort running the ball against Chicago in Week 1, the Falcons got the ground game going against Green Bay as Freeman rushed for 84 yards and two touchdowns. Atlanta’s defense relies on a strong pass rush but will be without its top man in Vic Beasley Jr., who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
ABOUT THE LIONS (2-0): Detroit ranks fourth against the run but has been susceptible versus the pass despite putting pressure on the quarterback. They’ve tried to take some pressure off their own signal-caller, however, and an improved ground game has made things easier for Matthew Stafford. The veteran has passed for a modest 414 yards through two games but is tied for the league lead with six touchdown tosses, and running back Ameer Abdullah recorded a career-high 86 rushing yards in Monday’s 24-10 win over the New York Giants.


EXTRA POINTS
1. Ryan has thrown a touchdown pass in 21 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the league.
2. In his past 15 home contests, Stafford has averaged 276.6 passing yards with 32 touchdowns and six interceptions.
3. Detroit WR Golden Tate has recorded at least six receptions in his last three home games.



PREDICTION: Lions 27, Falcons 24

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Atlanta at Detroit

ATS Trends

Atlanta

Falcons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Falcons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games in Week 3. Falcons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Falcons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Falcons are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 road games. Falcons are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 vs. NFC. Falcons are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games in September. Falcons are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games following a straight up win. Falcons are 7-3 ATS vs. a team with a winning record. Falcons are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game. Falcons are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game.

Detroit

Lions are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game. Lions are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS win. Lions are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 home games. Lions are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 games after accumulating less than 150 yards passing in their previous game. Lions are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up win. Lions are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games overall. Lions are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 vs. NFC. Lions are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games on fieldturf. Lions are 4-12-1 ATS in their last 17 games in Week 3. Lions are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game. Lions are 0-4 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.

OU Trends

Atlanta

Over is 8-0-1 in Falcons last 9 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Over is 5-0-1 in Falcons last 6 games following a ATS win. Over is 6-0-1 in Falcons last 7 games after scoring more than 30 points in their previous game. Over is 4-0 in Falcons last 4 games in Week 3. Over is 7-0 in Falcons last 7 vs. a team with a winning record. Over is 13-2-1 in Falcons last 16 vs. NFC. Over is 17-3-1 in Falcons last 21 games overall. Over is 5-1 in Falcons last 6 games in September. Over is 13-3 in Falcons last 16 games on fieldturf. Over is 12-3-1 in Falcons last 16 games following a straight up win. Over is 4-1 in Falcons last 5 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game. Under is 4-1-1 in Falcons last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Under is 7-2 in Falcons last 9 games after accumulating more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Under is 53-24-4 in Falcons last 81 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game.

Detroit

Under is 8-0 in Lions last 8 games following a straight up win. Under is 7-0 in Lions last 7 games following a ATS win. Over is 4-1 in Lions last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Under is 10-3 in Lions last 13 games overall. Under is 10-3 in Lions last 13 games on fieldturf. Under is 21-7 in Lions last 28 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game. Under is 6-2 in Lions last 8 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 8-3 in Lions last 11 vs. NFC. Over is 33-15-3 in Lions last 51 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game.

Head to Head

• Falcons are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings.
• Under is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings in Detroit.
• Under is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.
• Falcons are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings in Detroit.
• Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 24, 2017
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey


Preview: Dolphins at Jets

Gracenote
Sep 22, 2017

The Miami Dolphins swept the season series with the New York Jets last year and look to continue the streak with a power running game led by Jay Ajayi when the two teams meet in New Jersey on Sunday. Ajayi rushed for 122 yards in the Dolphins' season-opening win against San Diego and is poised for another big game against the Jets, who rank last in the NFL against the rush, allowing a whopping 185 yards per game.

New Jets CEO Christopher Johnson tried to dispel the notion that his team isn't actually trying to win this season in order to gain the top pick in next year's draft. "We definitely are not tanking." Johnson told reporters during the week while adding that he is excited about the future, yet realistic about the present. The time is now for Miami, which opened the season with a 19-17 win over the Chargers aided by a missed field goal in the game's final seconds. Jay Cutler, who was on the Jets' radar after they released Ryan Fitzpatrick in the offseason, made his Miami debut against Los Angeles by throwing for 230 yards and a touchdown.
TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Dolphins -6. O/U: 42.

ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (1-0): Cutler finished 24-of-33 passing without a turnover and Cody Parkey hit his fourth field goal from 54 yards with 1:05 to play to lift the Dolphins to the road win last week. Miami will play without star linebacker Lawrence Timmons, who was suspended indefinitely by the team after failing to show up for Sunday's game due to undisclosed "personal reasons." Wide receiver Jarvis Landry, who despite battling a knee issue, was in sync with Cutler, hauling in 13 of his 15 targets on the day -- which was tops in the league last week.
ABOUT THE JETS (0-2): New York was hammered at Oakland 45-20 last week, surrendering 180 yards on the ground on 27 carries. The Jets were incensed by Raiders running back Marshall Lynch, who was seen dancing on the sidelines in the second half, but linebacker Jordan Jenkins blamed his own team for its shortcomings. "That's football. When you perform like that, when you beat a team out like they did to us, you got to celebrate. It (stinks) being on the losing end of it. But that's football," Jenkins said. Jermaine Kearse was the lone offensive star for New York, hauling in two touchdown passes from Josh McCown.


EXTRA POINTS
1. Timmons had made 101 consecutive starts for the Dolphins and will be replaced by Rey Maualuga, who the team signed in August.
2. Ajayi rushed for 162 yards on 43 carries with one touchdown against the Jets last season.
3. The Jets had high aspirations for running back Bilal Powell heading into the season but the seven-year pro has just 35 yards on 13 carries after two games.


PREDICTION: Dolphins 30, Jets 14

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Miami at N.Y. Jets

ATS Trends

Miami

Dolphins are 6-1 ATS vs. a team with a losing record. Dolphins are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Dolphins are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 vs. AFC East. Dolphins are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games following a ATS win. Dolphins are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 road games. Dolphins are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games following a straight up win. Dolphins are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 vs. AFC. Dolphins are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games overall. Dolphins are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games in September. Dolphins are 6-22 ATS in their last 28 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game. Dolphins are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games on fieldturf. Dolphins are 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games in Week 3.

N.Y. Jets

Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Jets are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games after allowing more than 150 yards rushing in their previous game. Jets are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall. Jets are 1-5 ATS vs. a team with a winning record. Jets are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games in September. Jets are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 vs. AFC.

OU Trends

Miami

Over is 5-0 in Dolphins last 5 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Over is 6-0 in Dolphins last 6 vs. AFC East. Over is 5-0 in Dolphins last 5 games in Week 3. Over is 5-1 in Dolphins last 6 games following a straight up win. Over is 8-2 in Dolphins last 10 games following a ATS win. Over is 7-2 in Dolphins last 9 vs. AFC. Over is 9-3 in Dolphins last 12 games overall. Over is 6-2 in Dolphins last 8 vs. a team with a losing record. Under is 24-10 in Dolphins last 34 games on fieldturf. Over is 13-6 in Dolphins last 19 games in September.

N.Y. Jets

Under is 5-0 in Jets last 5 games after allowing more than 350 total yards in their previous game. Under is 5-0 in Jets last 5 games after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game. Over is 5-0-1 in Jets last 6 games after allowing more than 150 yards rushing in their previous game. Under is 7-1-1 in Jets last 9 games following a ATS loss. Under is 4-1 in Jets last 5 vs. AFC East. Over is 16-4 in Jets last 20 games in Week 3. Under is 7-2-1 in Jets last 10 games following a straight up loss. Under is 3-1-1 in Jets last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

Head to Head

• Favorite is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings.
• Over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.
• Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in New York.
• Road team is 14-6-1 ATS in their last 21 meetings.
• Dolphins are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 meetings.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 24, 2017
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, Minnesota


Preview: Buccaneers at Vikings

Gracenote
Sep 22, 2017

Mystery surrounds the Minnesota Vikings this week as they have yet to name a starting quarterback for their home contest against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Sam Bradford missed last week's loss to Pittsburgh due to a knee injury but has been a limited participant in practice this week and could be ready for Tampa Bay.

Bradford was the NFC Offensive Player of the Week after throwing for 346 yards and three touchdowns in a season-opening win over New Orleans but was replaced last week by Case Keenum, who completed 20-of-37 passes for 167 yards. Keenum may not be a bad option for Minnesota on Sunday, however, as he helped defeat the Buccaneers each of the last two seasons while starting for the Los Angeles Rams. After being forced to wait a week to start the season thanks to Hurricane Irma, Tampa Bay rolled to a 29-7 triumph over Chicago last Sunday. The Buccaneers put forth a strong defensive effort, forcing four turnovers while allowing a total of 20 yards on 16 rushes.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Vikings -2. O/U: 41

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (1-0): DeSean Jackson made only three catches for 39 yards in his debut for Tampa Bay but has had 14 receptions for 315 yards and two touchdowns in his last two contests against the Vikings. Minnesota also will have to pay close attention to Mike Evans, who ranks third in the NFC with 2,620 receiving yards since 2015 - including 93 in last week's victory. Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy was a limited participant in Thursday's practice after sitting out the day before with an ankle injury.

ABOUT THE VIKINGS (1-1): Minnesota is hoping to get the better of Tampa Bay via the ground game, as Dalvin Cook (191 yards) leads the NFC in rushing, Jerick McKinnon has scored three touchdowns over his last four home games and C.J. Ham registered his first rushing TD last week. Defensive end Everson Griffen has created problems for opponents and looks to continue doing so after registering his ninth career multi-sack performance with two against the Steelers and one in each of his last two meetings with the Buccaneers. Griffen ranks fifth in the league with 31.5 sacks since 2014, while Harrison Smith leads NFL safeties with 6.5 in that span.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Cook is averaging 5.6 yards per carry.

2. Buccaneers CB Brent Grimes leads the NFL with 67 passes defended since the start of the 2013 season.

3. Keenum threw four touchdown passes and just one interception in his two wins over Tampa Bay.

PREDICTION: Buccaneers 24, Vikings 20

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - Tampa Bay at Minnesota

ATS Trends

Tampa Bay

Buccaneers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win. Buccaneers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game. Buccaneers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS win. Buccaneers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games. Buccaneers are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games overall. Buccaneers are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 vs. NFC. Buccaneers are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game. Buccaneers are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games in September. Buccaneers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win of more than 14 points. Buccaneers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games in Week 3.

Minnesota

Vikings are 9-0 ATS in their last 9 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Vikings are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games after accumulating less than 250 total yards in their previous game. Vikings are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games in September. Vikings are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS loss. Vikings are 21-6 ATS in their last 27 games on fieldturf. Vikings are 23-7 ATS in their last 30 home games. Vikings are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 games following a straight up loss. Vikings are 21-8 ATS in their last 29 games after accumulating less than 150 yards passing in their previous game. Vikings are 7-3-2 ATS in their last 12 games in Week 3. Vikings are 35-16 ATS in their last 51 games following a straight up loss of more than 14 points. Vikings are 39-18 ATS in their last 57 games overall. Vikings are 17-8 ATS in their last 25 vs. NFC. Vikings are 1-4 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.

OU Trends

Tampa Bay

Under is 4-0 in Buccaneers last 4 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game. Under is 4-0-1 in Buccaneers last 5 games following a straight up win. Under is 6-1-1 in Buccaneers last 8 games overall. Under is 5-1 in Buccaneers last 6 vs. NFC. Under is 4-1-1 in Buccaneers last 6 games following a ATS win. Over is 9-3-1 in Buccaneers last 13 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game. Over is 5-2 in Buccaneers last 7 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game. Under is 17-7 in Buccaneers last 24 games following a straight up win of more than 14 points.

Minnesota

Over is 4-0 in Vikings last 4 games following a straight up loss. Under is 4-0 in Vikings last 4 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. Under is 5-1 in Vikings last 6 games after accumulating less than 250 total yards in their previous game. Over is 5-1 in Vikings last 6 games following a ATS loss. Under is 4-1 in Vikings last 5 games in Week 3. Under is 7-2 in Vikings last 9 games after scoring less than 15 points in their previous game. Under is 16-5 in Vikings last 21 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 9-3 in Vikings last 12 games in September. Under is 15-5-1 in Vikings last 21 games after accumulating less than 150 yards passing in their previous game. Over is 5-2 in Vikings last 7 vs. NFC. Under is 19-9-1 in Vikings last 29 games following a straight up loss of more than 14 points.

Head to Head

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

[New York Knight]

Mike Francesca (5-1 YTD)


Colts +1
Pack -9
Giants +6

[Can'tPickAWinner]

When: 12:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 24, 2017
Where: Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field, East Hartford, Connecticut


Preview: East Carolina at Connecticut

Gracenote
Sep 21, 2017

East Carolina will have Thomas Sirk back under center when it visits Connecticut in the American Athletic Conference opener for both teams Sunday. Sirk sat out with a concussion as the struggling Pirates watched No. 13 Virginia Tech score the final 57 points in a 64-17 loss.



The Huskies were also hammered last week, falling at Virginia 38-18 as the Cavaliers' Kurt Benkert threw for a program-record 455 yards. "There were some good things that happened (against Virginia) but there were a lot of bad things,” Connecticut coach Randy Edsall told reporters. East Carolina defeated the Huskies 41-3 last season as the home team won for the third straight time in the series. Sunday's game was originally scheduled for Nov. 4, but moved as part of a shake-up to get UConn's postponed game with South Florida back on the schedule.
TV: Noon, ET, ESPNU. LINE: UConn -4.5

ABOUT EAST CAROLINA (0-3): East Carolina raced out to a shocking 17-7 lead against Virginia Tech last week before collapsing and the Pirates have been outscored 154-51 so far, also losing to James Madison and West Virginia. Sirk, a dual-threat in the backfield, passed concussion protocol before last week's game but the team elected to hold the Duke graduate transfer out another week. “Coming off what could have been a concussion (at West Virginia) and me going through the protocol and making sure I passed everything, just made a decision that I didn’t want to jump in there too soon and maybe be out three or four games or maybe the rest of the season, so I think it was a smart move,” Sirk told reporters.
ABOUT UCONN (1-1): Bryant Shirreffs was 18-for-26 passing for 227 yards and led the Huskies with 90 yards rushing on 14 carries against the Cavaliers. The Huskies have gotten very little out of senior running back Arkeel Newsome, who was one of the nation's leading all-purpose backs last season. Newsome has rushed 14 times for 17 yards on the season and has five catches for 85 yards without a touchdown.

EXTRA POINTS
1. UConn has lost seven straight games against FBS schools with its last victory coming against Cincinnati at home in October 8, 2016.
2. Huskies RB Nate Hopkins rushed for 130 yards and scored three touchdowns in the team's season opener against Holy Cross but gained only 34 yards on 10 carries without a score against Virginia.
3. East Carolina S Tim Irvin left last week's game with an ankle injury but will play Sunday.

PREDICTION: UConn 20, East Carolina 17

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Trends - East Carolina at Connecticut

ATS Trends

East Carolina

Pirates are 8-20 ATS in their last 28 games on grass. Pirates are 9-27 ATS in their last 36 games overall. Pirates are 7-22 ATS in their last 29 games following a straight up loss of more than 20 points. Pirates are 5-18 ATS in their last 23 games following a ATS loss. Pirates are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games after scoring less than 20 points in their previous game. Pirates are 3-14 ATS in their last 17 games following a straight up loss. Pirates are 4-20 ATS in their last 24 conference games. Pirates are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing more than 280 yards passing in their previous game. Pirates are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games after allowing more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game. Pirates are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home. Pirates are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games after allowing more than 40 points in their previous game. Pirates are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game. Pirates are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game. Pirates are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games in September. Pirates are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 road games.

Connecticut

Huskies are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game. Huskies are 8-21-1 ATS in their last 30 games on grass. Huskies are 14-37-1 ATS in their last 52 games overall. Huskies are 9-26-2 ATS in their last 37 games following a ATS loss. Huskies are 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 home games. Huskies are 7-22-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a straight up loss. Huskies are 6-19-2 ATS in their last 27 games in September. Huskies are 11-38-2 ATS in their last 51 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game. Huskies are 6-22 ATS in their last 28 games after scoring less than 20 points in their previous game. Huskies are 4-19-3 ATS vs. a team with a losing record. Huskies are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Huskies are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 conference games.

OU Trends

East Carolina

Under is 4-1 in Pirates last 5 road games. Over is 8-2 in Pirates last 10 games in September. Over is 4-1 in Pirates last 5 games following a straight up loss. Over is 4-1 in Pirates last 5 games following a ATS loss. Under is 11-3 in Pirates last 14 conference games. Under is 7-3 in Pirates last 10 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game.

Connecticut

Under is 6-1 in Huskies last 7 games after scoring less than 20 points in their previous game. Under is 5-1 in Huskies last 6 vs. a team with a losing record. Under is 5-1 in Huskies last 6 games after accumulating more than 200 yards rushing in their previous game. Under is 19-7 in Huskies last 26 home games. Under is 19-7 in Huskies last 26 games following a straight up loss. Under is 5-2 in Huskies last 7 games overall. Under is 15-6 in Huskies last 21 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game. Under is 10-4 in Huskies last 14 games on grass. Under is 19-8 in Huskies last 27 games following a ATS loss. Under is 9-4 in Huskies last 13 conference games.

Head to Head

No trends available.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL opening line report: Cowboys open as 3.5-point road favorites at Cardinals
Patrick Everson

Monday Night Football is now in the books and we’re on our way to Week 3 of the NFL season. We check in on the opening lines for four noteworthy games, with insights from Scott Cooley, odds consultant for offshore sportsbook Bookmaker.eu.

Houston Texans at New England Patriots (-12)

New England got a lot of its offensive mojo back in Week 2, but also lost stud tight end Rob Gronkowski to a groin injury, though it’s not considered serious. The Patriots (1-1 SU and ATS) raced out to a 30-13 halftime lead and coasted past New Orleans 36-20 victory Sunday as a 5.5-point road favorite.

Houston (1-1 SU and ATS) also bounced back from a poor season opener, though it has managed just 20 total points over two games. The Texans traveled to Cincinnati for the Thursday nighter and nabbed a 13-9 upset as a 5-point underdog.

“We were forced to inflate this number some, as the public knows well the disparity in these offenses,” Cooley said. “But it will be interesting to see how the Pats handle a top-flight defense, because they didn’t exactly impress against a great Chiefs defense (with Eric Berry) in their opener. Of course on the flip side, Bill Belichick eats rookie quarterbacks for breakfast.”

Early action certainly points to that, as Bookmaker.eu’s opening line of Pats -12 was up to 13 by late Sunday night.

Oakland Raiders at Washington Redskins (+3.5)

Oakland is out of the gate 2-0 SU and ATS as it preps for its second long road trip in the first three weeks, this time for the Sunday night game. The Raiders, who opened with a win at Nashville, drubbed the New York Jets 45-20 Sunday as a healthy 14-point home chalk.

Washington bounced back from a season-opening home loss to Philadelphia by escaping Los Angeles with a 27-20 victory over the Rams as a 3-point road ‘dog.

“I think the Redskins were better represented this week than what they put forth in their opener. That said, this is a very good-looking Raiders squad,” Cooley said. “There’s a reason smart bettors were pouring money on this team to win the Super Bowl during the offseason. Action should lean toward Oakland.”

Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals (+3.5)

Dallas got an early-season reality check on its Sunday visit to the Mile High City. In a game delayed an hour during the first half due to lightning, the Cowboys (1-1 SU and ATS) had little thunder on offense or defense, losing to Denver 42-17 laying 2.5 points.

Arizona rebounded from a season-opening setback at Detroit, but just barely. The Cardinals (1-1 SU, 0-2 ATS) were again on the road and needed overtime to dispatch undermanned Indianapolis 16-13 giving 7 points.

“Dallas’ defense was certainly exposed at Denver, but it’s not as if Arizona has done anything to impress us early in this season,” Cooley said of the Week 3 Monday night contest. “We know the public is going to be all over the Cowboys to bounce back, so expect the line to trend that way.”

Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions (no line)

Defending NFC champion Atlanta (2-0 SU, 1-1 ATS) christened its new stadium in style in the Week 2 Sunday nighter. The Falcons jumped all over Green Bay early en route to a 34-23 victory as a 3-point home fave.

Detroit still has some Week 2 work to do, traveling to face the New York Giants tonight, Bookmaker.eu is holding off on posting the line for this Week 3 clash. The Lions opened the year with a 35-23 home win over Arizona as a 2.5-point pup.

“The creation of this line will somewhat be predicated on each team’s performance in Week 2,” Cooley said ahead of Atlanta’s Sunday night victory. “If there aren’t any major injuries on Sunday and Monday night, and nothing looks out of sorts, we’ll look to open the Lions as very small underdogs. And they’ll be live in the eyes of some bettors.”

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL Week 3 lines that make you go hmmm...
Peter Korner

Longtime Las Vegas oddsmaker Peter Korner sizes up this week’s NFL schedule and picks out some of the lines making him go “hmmm...” in Week 3, including a rare situation in which the Browns are actually laying chalk on the road in their Sunday matchup against the hapless Colts and it may not be enough.

Cleveland Browns at Indianapolis Colts (+1, 40.5)

Cleveland visits Indianapolis this week in a pairing of 0-2 teams both looking for positive signs.

If there's one thing to notice about each team thus far, Cleveland has been playing with a bit more fire, but certainly has played superior teams as compared to Indianapolis. Why this line stands at a mere -1 is questionable. Expect this line to move into the -2, -2.5 range before this one gets underway.

In a game that will be starving for points (Under 40.5 anyone?), the Browns should dominate this game at the line, as the Colts are certainly not striking fear into anyone’s defensive scheme. Cleveland is supposed to be improving from last season and this is a game they should win. With such a low spread, that’s all you’re asking them to do.

The Colts have looked awful so far against the lowly Rams and gave their second game away with some late horrendous play. It’s not the kind of play that inspires a team to improve the following week. The Colts aren’t looking at this game as a “must-win” game. They know they’re in for a long season, but improvements may be their only catalyst. I see this game as a “must-win” for Cleveland who has some expectations riding along in this one.

If you like the Browns, get this early in the week. If you somehow see a glimmer of hope with the Colts, wait until Sunday for your best number.

Miami Dolphins at New York Jets (-6, 41)

Miami visits the New York on a Sunday home opener for the Jets which may prove to be cringeworthy to watch.

The Dolphins did not have the luxury of having one game in their pockets when they faced the Chargers last week and yet, pulled out the win in Los Angeles shaking off some rust in the meantime. The Jets fell apart defensively against the Raiders in giving up a whopping 45 points and dropping to 0-2 for the season to start.

Usually there’s a good reason for a visiting team to be favored by six points on the road. Either the away team is exceptionally good or the home team is exceptionally not-so-good. I think the latter may be applied here.

Though the standing six is a high price tag to lay at first look, you might just be wondering who will exactly take the Jets even at this level? It's hard to see where New York money is going to come in hard and heavy at post. The most likely scenario will be a slow, steady stream of Dolphin cash which should drive this up to the -6 or -6.5 level before this gets underway. Jump on Miami early as you can and wait if you’re a true believer in New York.

Oakland Raiders at Washington (-3, 54)

On Sunday night, Oakland will be playing at Washington.

If you like the Raiders, we’re blessed to have this spread toeing the key three at his point. This, we know, will translate into a number that won’t move for a while. This line was created with perception over true value. Oddsmakers know the threshold of the betting public and the classic marquee matchup on a Sunday night with the home team as the underdog is a strong draw to casual bettors every time.

Why make the line higher when you can get the same handle right at -3?

The Raiders are playing like they did last year before the Carr injury. Now that’s he’s returned, so has the Oakland swagger. Though this is billed as a high scoring game, most of this should be on the Raiders scoreboard. The key three becomes less a factor the higher the total, when touchdowns reign more than field goals. Oakland has scored 71 points already in two games.
Eventually, this number will probably stay on the -3 with a money line to lay for a while. But you can bet that bookmakers will be very heavy on Oakland when this kicks off. This line deserves to be in the -4 range so there’s value in the favorite here.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Wiseguys are advising that these Week 3 NFL lines are going to move

Game to bet on now

Kansas City at Los Angeles Chargers (+2.5)

Smart bettors have already taken advantage in this one. The line opened at Chargers +3.5 in many places, and has been bet down to +2.5 – which means that wagerers might be able to win both ways if the Chiefs wind up winning by a field goal. And that’s very possible. All that aside, Kansas City needs this one to keep pace with Denver and Oakland in the ultra-strong AFC West.

In fact, it’s imperative that the Chiefs avoid any leaks over the next three weeks because of a sadistic five-game (Pittsburgh, Oakland, Denver, Dallas, Giants) gauntlet that stares them in the face stating in mid-October. Now’s the time to take advantage of the Chargers, who are reeling after losing in their home opener to Miami before a lot of empty seats in their first game since moving from San Diego.

Game to wait on

Houston Texans at New England Patriots (-13)

Heavy line on this game, the product of the Texans’ poor offensive performance in Cincinnati last Thursday and the Patriots’ 36-point output at New Orleans on Sunday. And also lots of uncertainty, especially considering the Patriots’ mounting injury problems on both sides of the ball. Just when NE seemed to have figured out what to do in Julian Edelman’s absence, other wideouts have gone down, further reducing Tom Brady’s options.

Now comes word that LB/DE Dont’a Hightower (hurt knee in the opener vs. KC) has been seen by Dr. James Andrews – and it’s rarely good when your name and Andrews are mentioned in the same sentence. Might be a good idea to cool on this one until the injury reports are announced and we get some kind of idea what the Pats will have on the field.

Total to watch

Oakland Raiders at Washington (53.5)

It looks like the Raiders are going to have one of their best teams in recent memory just as they get set to jump ship to Las Vegas. The competition (Titans, Jets) hasn’t put up much of a fight, but it’s the NFL and the Raiders have 71 points on the board through two games. Derek Carr is off to a terrific start (5 TD passes and the third-ranked QB) through two games, and Washington has not shown a lot so far this season. Washington is average offensively, but should put some points on the board in what has the look and feel of a high-scoring game unless there are significant weather issues.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 3

Sunday, September 24

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

BALTIMORE (2 - 0) vs. JACKSONVILLE (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 9:30 AM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
JACKSONVILLE is 1-0 against the spread versus BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
JACKSONVILLE is 1-1 straight up against BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CLEVELAND (0 - 2) at INDIANAPOLIS (0 - 2) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

PITTSBURGH (2 - 0) at CHICAGO (0 - 2) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 38-22 ATS (+13.8 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 101-71 ATS (+22.9 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
CHICAGO is 46-72 ATS (-33.2 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

MIAMI (1 - 0) at NY JETS (0 - 2) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 46-68 ATS (-28.8 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
MIAMI is 70-96 ATS (-35.6 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY JETS is 2-1 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
NY JETS is 2-2 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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DENVER (2 - 0) at BUFFALO (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 42-24 ATS (+15.6 Units) in a home game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points since 1992.
DENVER is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

HOUSTON (1 - 1) at NEW ENGLAND (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) as a favorite of 10 or more points over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-4 ATS (+12.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-4 ATS (+12.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 16-4 ATS (+11.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) against AFC South division opponents since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ENGLAND is 3-0 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 3-0 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NEW ORLEANS (0 - 2) at CAROLINA (2 - 0) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 79-55 ATS (+18.5 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 4-0 against the spread versus CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
CAROLINA is 3-1 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TAMPA BAY (1 - 0) at MINNESOTA (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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ATLANTA (2 - 0) at DETROIT (2 - 0) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 130-169 ATS (-55.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

NY GIANTS (0 - 2) at PHILADELPHIA (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 3-1 against the spread versus NY GIANTS over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 3-1 straight up against NY GIANTS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SEATTLE (1 - 1) at TENNESSEE (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 47-27 ATS (+17.3 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

KANSAS CITY (2 - 0) at LA CHARGERS (0 - 2) - 9/24/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA CHARGERS is 2-2 against the spread versus KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS CITY is 4-0 straight up against LA CHARGERS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

CINCINNATI (0 - 2) at GREEN BAY (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 117-88 ATS (+20.2 Units) in home games since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 117-88 ATS (+20.2 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 182-127 ATS (+42.3 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

OAKLAND (2 - 0) at WASHINGTON (1 - 1) - 9/24/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 83-113 ATS (-41.3 Units) in home games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 83-113 ATS (-41.3 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 83-113 ATS (-41.3 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 13-31 ATS (-21.1 Units) in home games in September games since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL

Week 3

Trend Report

Sunday, September 24

10:30 AM
BALTIMORE vs. JACKSONVILLE
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 5 games when playing Jacksonville
Baltimore is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Jacksonville
Jacksonville is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Jacksonville's last 7 games when playing at home against Baltimore

2:00 PM
DENVER vs. BUFFALO
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 6 games when playing on the road against Buffalo
Denver is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Buffalo
Buffalo is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Buffalo is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home

2:00 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. CHICAGO
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Pittsburgh's last 10 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Chicago
Chicago is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
Chicago is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

2:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. INDIANAPOLIS
Cleveland is 2-9-1 ATS in its last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Cleveland's last 8 games on the road
Indianapolis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Indianapolis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

2:00 PM
NY GIANTS vs. PHILADELPHIA
NY Giants are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
NY Giants are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against NY Giants
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games when playing at home against NY Giants

2:00 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games
Tampa Bay is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Minnesota
Minnesota is 15-6 SU in its last 21 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games

2:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. DETROIT
Atlanta is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing Detroit
Detroit is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Detroit is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Atlanta

2:00 PM
HOUSTON vs. NEW ENGLAND
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Houston's last 10 games
Houston is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New England
The total has gone OVER in 7 of New England's last 9 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New England's last 5 games

2:00 PM
MIAMI vs. NY JETS
Miami is 9-3-1 ATS in its last 13 games
Miami is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against NY Jets
NY Jets are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the NY Jets last 6 games

2:00 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. CAROLINA
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 5 games
New Orleans is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Carolina is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New Orleans

5:05 PM
SEATTLE vs. TENNESSEE
Seattle is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Seattle is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Tennessee
Tennessee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Seattle
Tennessee is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Seattle

5:25 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. LOS ANGELES
Kansas City is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games on the road
Los Angeles is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Kansas City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 6 games when playing Kansas City

5:25 PM
CINCINNATI vs. GREEN BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Cincinnati's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Green Bay's last 16 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Green Bay's last 6 games at home

9:30 PM
OAKLAND vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games on the road
Oakland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Washington's last 23 games
Washington is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Oakland

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NFL

Week 3

Sunday's games
Ravens (2-0) vs Jaguars (1-1) (@ London)— Baltimore forced 10 turnovers (+7) in winning first two games vs divisional foes; three of their five TD drives have been 40 or less yards. Ravens’ offense has started 10 drives 75+ yards from goal line, has only one TD, one FG, so their defense has been setting everything up. Jaguars won SU as underdogs in their last two London games; they split first two games this year, with turnovers dominating both games. Jax is 9-7 vs spread in last 16 games as an underdog. Teams split last six meetings; their games the last two years were decided by total of 3 points. Last two years, Ravens are 2-8-1 vs spread as a non-divisional favorite; they host rival Steelers next week.

Browns (0-2) @ Colts (0-2)—Cleveland is a road favorite for just 2nd time in last 4+ years; over last decade, Browns are 5-2 vs spread as a road fave. Last 4+ years, AFC North teams are 10-20 vs spread as road faves. Browns faced Big Ben/Flacco in first two games; they drop way down in class here, facing Colts’ QB Brissett, who is 0-2 as an NFL starter, scoring 0-13 points in those games. Indy lost its first two games, scoring 9-13 points; they scored two TD’s on 25 drives, with 13 3/outs. Rookie QB Kizer got yanked from his first NFL road start; Browns are 5-24 on 3rd down so far this season. Indy is 7-1 vs Browns, with last two wins by total of five points. Cleveland’s only series win was here in 2011. 4 of last 6 series totals were 30 or less.

Steelers (2-0) @ Bears (0-2)— In first two games, Steelers faced rookie QB Kizer, backup QB Keenum; hard to tell much about their defense yet. Steelers are only 8-26 on 3rd down; three of their four TD drives were 75+ yards. Last 2+ years, Pitt is 10-7 vs spread as a road favorite; last 8+ years, they’re 20-13 vs spread vs NFC teams. Last 4+ years, AFC North teams are 10-20 vs spread as road favorites. Chicago turned ball over four times in 29-7 loss in Tampa LW; Bucs’ TD drives were 13-35 yards, plus Tampa defense scored a TD. Pitt has 23 penalties for 221 yards in first two games; they need to clean that up. Steelers lost last two games with Chicago 17-14/40-23; their last win in Chicago was in ’95. How long before rookie QB Trubisky plays for Bears?

Dolphins (1-0) @ Jets (0-2)— Miami is 4-2 vs spread in last six games as a road favorite; they’re 4-11 vs spread in last 15 AFC East road tilts. Jets won last five series games, taking last two played here by 18-21 points. Gang Green won/covered five of last seven home openers. Fish survived their opener in LA last week when Chargers missed last-minute 44-yard FG to win it; Miami kicked FG’s on all three red zone drives, but Cutler was 24-34/225 passing and they didn’t turn ball over. Jets allowed nine TD’s in first two games, with six drives of 77+ yards; opponents are 16-29 on 3rd down. Since 2013, New York is 10-5 vs spread as a home dog; last four years, they’re 8-4 vs spread in AFC East home games.

Broncos (2-0) @ Bills (1-1)— First road game for Denver squad that ran ball for 318 yards, converted 17-30 on 3rd down in pair of home wins. Since 2011, Broncos are 20-10-1 vs spread as a road favorite; they’re 9-4–2 in last 15 games where spread was 3 or less points. Buffalo allowed only one TD in its first two games; they were held to 176 yards in 9-3 loss in Charlotte LW- they lost field position by 5-10 yards in first two games. Denver won six of last eight series games; last meeting was in 2014. Broncos won three of last four visits here; last one was in ’11. Denver won/covered six of last seven road openers. Last 2+ years, AFC West non-divisional road favorites are 13-3-1 vs spread.

Texans (1-1) @ Patriots (1-1)— These teams practiced together for few days this summer; they do lot of same stuff, Patriots just do it a lot better. Houston passed for only 98 yards in rookie QB Watson’s first NFL start, but he didn’t turn ball over and had a 49-yard TD run, their only TD of game. Texans are 8-11-1 as road underdogs under O’Brien- they’re 4-11 in last 15 non-divisional road games. New England allowed 700 passing yards in winning first two games, but against veteran QB’s; doubtful Watson can exploit that weakness. Patriots won last six series games, hammering Texans 27-0 in game LY that Brady sat out; they then waxed Houston 34-16 in playoffs. Texans are 0-5 in Foxboro, with 13 points the closest of the five games.

Saints (0-2) @ Panthers (2-0)— New Orleans is 0-2 for 4th year in row; loss here makes them 0-3 for 3rd year in row, which is bad for job security. Saints allowed 1,025 total yards, 777 thru air in first two games without forcing a turnover; last 3+ years, they’re 11-5-1 as road underdogs, 5-1 in last six NFC South road games. Panthers won first two games and haven’t allowed a TD yet, but they’ve also faced QB’s Hoyer/Taylor. Brees’ offense is big step up in competition here. Carolina is 7-3 in its last 10 games with the Saints; last three were all decided by 3 points. New Orleans is 1-4 in last five visits to Charlotte, losing here last two years by 5-3 points. Panthers are 15-9-2 vs spread in last 26 games as a home favorite.

Buccaneers (1-0) @ Vikings (1-1)— Bradford’s balky knee (are you surprised?) puts backup QB Keenum (9-16-1 as NFL starter) into spotlight. Minnesota is 14-4 vs spread as a home favorite under Zimmer, 11-1 vs non-division opponents. Under is 10-6 in their last 16 home games. Tampa Bay’s defense was dominant in opening win LW; their two TD drives were only 13-35 yards. Bucs converted 8-15 on 3rd down, forced four turnovers (+3). Bucs won six of last seven series games, winning last three visits here, by 11-4-19 points- teams haven’t met since 2014. Tampa Bay is 8-3 vs spread in last 11 road openers (8-2 in last 10 as a dog in AO’s). Last 3+ years, NFC North home favorites are 29-14-2 vs spread outside their division.

Falcons (2-0) @ Lions (2-0)— Short week for Detroit team that ran ball 59 times in first couple games, as they try to take some stress off QB Stafford. Since 2011, Lions are 2-8-1 as a home underdog; they’re 15-31 on 3rd down this season and scored TD on either defense/special teams in both games. Falcons are 4-4 as road favorites under Quinn; they threw ball for 9.6/7.2 ypp in first two games. Atlanta is +13 in turnovers in its last 18 regular season games. Under is 14-9 in their last 23 road games. Over is 24-17 in Detroit’s last 41 home games. Atlanta won three of last four games with Detroit; their last meeting was a 22-21 Lion win in England three years ago. Falcons won three of last four visits to the Motor City.

Giants (0-2) @ Eagles (1-1)— Giants scored one TD on 19 drives in losing its first two games by 16-14 points- they’ve run ball 30 times for 97 yards this season. Big Blue is 3-6-1 in last 10 NFC East road games, 5-9-2 in last 16 games as a road underdog, 1-3-1 under McAdoo. Philly is 13-4 in last 17 series games, 5-1 in last six; Giants lost last three visits here by combined score of 78-26. Iggles are 6-3 in last nine home openers. Philly was favored in only 2 of 8 home games LY; they’re since 2012, they’re 12-15-1 as a home favorite (1-1 under Pederson). Eagles are 5-9-1 in last 15 NFC East home games- they ran ball 17 times LW, dropped back to pass 52 times- they need more balance. Under is 10-6 in Eagles’ last 16 home games.

Seahawks (1-1) @ Titans (1-1)— Seattle scored 10 or fewer points in five of their last nine road games; since 2011, they’re 11-5-5 as a road underdog. Seahawks scored only one TD in two games this year, then they missed the PAT after that one, but they also held Packers to 17 points, so the defense is still very potent. Tennessee ran ball for 179 yards LW in easy win in Jacksonville; Since 2013, Titans are 5-9-1 as a home favorite, they’re 1-5 in last six games as a non-divisional home fave; over is 9-6-2 in their last 17 home games. Seahawks won six of last seven series games; this is their first visits to Nashville since ’05. Under is 10-7 in Seattle’s last 17 road games. Last 4+ years, NFC West non-divisional road underdogs are 14-28-4 against the spread.

Chiefs (2-0) @ Chargers (0-2)— Chargers lost first two games when they missed FG’s in last minute of both games; Bolts are 0-6-1 vs spread in last seven games overall- they’re 2-6 vs spread in last eight games as a home underdog. Chargers ran ball for only 108 yards on 36 carries in first two games; over last decade, LA is 1-6 as a home dog in divisional games. Kansas City threw for 584 yards in winning first two games; they scored 25-21 points just in second half the last two weeks. Chiefs are 11-2 as a road favorite under Reid- they’re 10-2 vs spread in AFC West road games the last four years. Chiefs won last six series games, winning last three visits to San Diego, by 3-30-10 points. Over is 9-6-1 in Chiefs’ last 16 road games.

Bengals (0-2) @ Packers (1-1)— Cincy is first NFL team since 1939 Eagles to start season wth two home games and not score TD in either one- they had extra time to prep after Thursday nite loss to Houston and its rookie QB- now they visit Rodgers/Packers, who are coming off bad loss in Atlanta. Green Bay is 5-6 vs spread the last two years when they’re coming off a loss- they have injury issues on offensive line. Packers are 5-2-1 in last eight games as a home favorite. Under is 12-5 in their last 17 home games. Bengals won last three games vs Packers by 7-7-4 points; they’re 3-4 in Wisconsin, but 2 of 3 wins came in Milwaukee, not Lambeau Field- they’re 1-4 in Green Bay. Cincy is 6-2-1 in last nine road openers.

Raiders (2-0) @ Redskins (1-1)— Oakland is 4-1 as a road favorite under Del Rio; they won first two games this year by 10-25 points, scoring nine TD’s on 19 drives. Raiders are just 7-13 vs spread in last 20 games vs NFC teams. Washington allowed 538 passing yards in splitting first two games; they blew 13-0 lead in LA last week, but scored in last 2:00 to even their record. Redskins are 5-2 in last seven games as a home underdog— over is 7-2 in their last nine home games. Road team won last six series games; Raiders won last three visits here by 1-12-3 points- Redskins’ last home series win was in 1986. Oakland hasn’t turned ball over yet in ‘17; they averaged 7.4/8.2 yards/pass attempt in their two games this season.

2017 week-by-week results
HF HU Totals O/U AFC-NFC
1) 5-5 3-2 4-11 1-0N
2) 6-6 2-2 6-9-1 3-2A