Thursday 10-25-18 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

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[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by Top Horse Analytics at Belmont Park

10/25/18, BEL, Race 5, 3.38 ET
1 1/16M [Turf] 1.38.03 MAIDEN SPECIAL WEIGHT. Purse $62,000.
FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLDFOALED IN NEW YORK STATE AND APPROVED BY THE NEW YORK STATE-BRED REGISTRY
Exacta, Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Pick 3 Races (5-7), Grand Slam (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 35.40, $1 ROI 1.12, For Race Category MSW_MCLM Turf
Rating Pgm# Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer FLAGS
100.0000 7 Prince of New York 12-1 Ortiz. Jr. I Englehart Jeremiah C. JSW
098.4271 2 Scotty Brown 9/2 Saez L Terranova II John P. L
097.2216 8 Klickitat 5-1 Cohen D Cox Brad H. T
096.7344 10 Doups Point 6-1 Rosario J Clement Christophe FEC
096.5587 4 Southern Brigade 3-1 Castellano J Rodriguez Rudy R.
096.5522 9 Pier Forty 8-1 Cancel E Weaver George
096.1665 13 Impazible Odds 12-1 Alvarado J Morley Thomas
095.7336 1 Alphastest 12-1 Franco M Weaver George
095.3118 12 Coach Villa 12-1 Velazquez J R Zito Nicholas P.
094.7908 5 Gray's Image 12-1 Davis D Englehart Jeremiah C.
093.9728 16 Highest Rank 6-1 Cancel E Donk David G.
093.8754 14 Empiremeister 30-1 Diaz H M Wilkinson Erin
093.2879 11 Quick Charge 15-1 Diaz. Jr. H R Pugh Peter D.
091.0321 6 Awesome Adversary 30-1 Reyes L R Friedman Mitchell E.
090.7626 3 Herecomesthejudge 30-1 Lezcano J Nevin Michelle
090.1223 15 Kid Chocolate 30-1 Maragh R Sciacca Gary
If Race Is Off Turf
Top Horse Win Percent 28.40, $1 ROI 0.84, For Race Category MSW_MCLM Dirt
Rating Pgm# Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer FLAGS
100.0000 7 Prince of New York 12-1 Ortiz. Jr. I Englehart Jeremiah C. JSW
096.6811 9 Pier Forty 8-1 Cancel E Weaver George
096.6361 2 Scotty Brown 9/2 Saez L Terranova II John P. L
095.3075 4 Southern Brigade 3-1 Castellano J Rodriguez Rudy R.
095.2559 8 Klickitat 5-1 Cohen D Cox Brad H. T
094.8535 13 Impazible Odds 12-1 Alvarado J Morley Thomas
094.5950 5 Gray's Image 12-1 Davis D Englehart Jeremiah C.
094.5922 10 Doups Point 6-1 Rosario J Clement Christophe FEC
094.3134 16 Highest Rank 6-1 Cancel E Donk David G.
094.1401 14 Empiremeister 30-1 Diaz H M Wilkinson Erin
094.0902 1 Alphastest 12-1 Franco M Weaver George
094.0805 12 Coach Villa 12-1 Velazquez J R Zito Nicholas P.
091.5729 11 Quick Charge 15-1 Diaz. Jr. H R Pugh Peter D.
089.7650 3 Herecomesthejudge 30-1 Lezcano J Nevin Michelle
089.1284 6 Awesome Adversary 30-1 Reyes L R Friedman Mitchell E.
088.7294 15 Kid Chocolate 30-1 Maragh R Sciacca Gary

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Delta Downs
Delta Downs - Race 2

Daily Double (Races 2-3) ($1 min.) / Exacta / Trifecta (.50 min.) Pick 3 (Races 2-3-4) (.50 min) / Superfecta (.10 min.)


Claiming $20,000 • 1 Mile • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 78 • Purse: $23,000 • Post: 5:52P
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE SEPTEMBER 25 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000 (CONDITION ELIGIBILITY PREFERRED).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Lone Front-runner. MISS VICKI is the Lone Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * MISS VICKI: Horse is dropping into a race which has an Class Rating at least five points lower than the Class Rating of its last race. Horse is dropping in class, has an inside post position and isn't a Trailer. Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating.
4
MISS VICKI
3/2

8/5




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
4
MISS VICKI
4

3/2
Front-runner
85

82

67.3

67.3

65.3
5
MALINE
5

12/1
Stalker
72

66

56.2

58.4

51.9
7
LADY PERDITA
7

6/1
Trailer
70

68

57.8

62.6

55.1
1
MISS AVA CLAIRE
1

6/1
Trailer
69

73

53.1

63.5

56.0
6
WANNA SNUGGLE
6

4/1
Trailer
65

61

52.1

37.0

25.0
2
YONNA SHE GOES
2

3/1
Trailer
74

67

48.0

58.0

51.5
3
FREDA'S SMOOTH AIR
3

15/1
Alternator/Non-contender
58

58

71.1

55.0

42.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Golden Gate Fields - Race #3 - Post: 1:49pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $12,500 Class Rating: 100

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 UNINVITED (ML=3/1)
#2 MAXINAMILLION (ML=7/2)


UNINVITED - Martinez is right back for another contest today after riding aboard this horse for the 1st attempt on September 30th and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. MAXINAMILLION - Gonzalez's agent must like anytime Wong gives them a mount; win percentage together is terrific. Rode this horse on September 23rd and Gonzalez is right back in the irons in today's race. This horse has increased his speed ratings from a fig of 69 to 85 to 88 in succession.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 PASS DUE PAYMENT (ML=7/5), #6 CANDY'S MARTINI (ML=8/1),

PASS DUE PAYMENT - I don't normally play a chalk horse that hasn't been to the track in the last three weeks. CANDY'S MARTINI - Pace makes the race and the shortage of early speed means this sustainer will have to rally without any help.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - UNINVITED - Playing the top earnings per start horse is an angle which won't steer you wrong in the long run. I'm betting on this one.





STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #1 UNINVITED on top if we're getting at least 3/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPER HIGH FIVE WAGERS:
None

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Hawthorne - Race #2 - Post: 3:38pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,800 Class Rating: 60

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 GLITTERATI GAL (ML=6/1)


GLITTERATI GAL - Shows a classic training maneuver. Routing today after two sprint races. Don't throw this horse out due to her last race at Hawthorne where she ended up fifth on a track listed as good. Should improve this time around.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 SUPERDYNE (ML=2/1), #7 SPECIAL CONQUEST (ML=3/1), #5 TULALIP (ML=4/1),

SUPERDYNE - Don't feel this runner will make an impact in today's race. That last speed figure was most unsatisfactory when compared with today's class rating. SPECIAL CONQUEST - This vulnerable equine ran a run-of-the-mill speed fig last time out. She shouldn't show signs of improvement and will likely suffer defeat today running that fig. TULALIP - This vulnerable equine ran a common speed figure last time out. She shouldn't improve and will likely get beat in today's race running that fig.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #8 GLITTERATI GAL on the nose if you can get odds of 1/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
8 with 4

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by Top Horse Analytics at Keeneland

10/25/18, KEE, Race 9, 5.30 ET
1 1/16M [Turf] 1.40.02 MAIDEN SPECIAL WEIGHT. Purse $67,000.
FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLDAND UPWARD
Exacta ($1 min)-Trifecta ($.50 min)-Superfecta ($.10 min)-Super High Five ($1 - min)
Best in race - (J)ockey (T)rainer (S)peed (F)inish (E)arnings (W)orkouts (L)ead (C)loser
Top Horse Win Percent 13.64, $1 ROI 0.60, For Race Category MSW_MCLM Turf
Rating Pgm# Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer FLAGS
100.0000 12 Ballston 10-1 Albarado R Gargan Danny TW
099.2066 8 Regal Serenade 5-1 Geroux F Block Chris M. S
098.7691 2 Bee Balm 10-1 Beschizza A Sisterson Jack C
098.2143 6 French Empire 9/2 Gaffalione T Weaver George JEL
097.8161 9 Shezalemondropkid 8-1 Landeros C Wilkes Ian R.
096.4334 1 Ajfan 15-1 Graham J Peitz Daniel C.
096.1485 3 My Little Stormy 12-1 Jimenez A Colebrook Ben
095.7554 7 Artistic Quality(b+) 5/2 Gilligan J Calhoun W. Bret F
095.1549 5 Let's Roll 10-1 Morales E Oliver Victoria H.
094.8897 11 Tapitai 15-1 Lanerie C J Arnold. II George R.
093.5265 4 Zee Ro Drop 20-1 Hernandez. Jr. B J Pessin Neil L.
093.4405 10 Shamal 20-1 Cannon D Martinez Matthew R.
If Race Is Off Turf
Top Horse Win Percent 24.00, $1 ROI 0.62, For Race Category MSW_MCLM Dirt
Rating Pgm# Horse Name M/L Jockey Trainer FLAGS
100.0000 12 Ballston 10-1 Albarado R Gargan Danny TW
098.5916 8 Regal Serenade 5-1 Geroux F Block Chris M.
098.0865 6 French Empire 9/2 Gaffalione T Weaver George JL
096.9458 9 Shezalemondropkid 8-1 Landeros C Wilkes Ian R.
096.5046 2 Bee Balm 10-1 Beschizza A Sisterson Jack C
096.4257 7 Artistic Quality(b+) 5/2 Gilligan J Calhoun W. Bret FE
095.5163 3 My Little Stormy 12-1 Jimenez A Colebrook Ben S
095.0752 1 Ajfan 15-1 Graham J Peitz Daniel C.
094.4569 5 Let's Roll 10-1 Morales E Oliver Victoria H.
093.4293 11 Tapitai 15-1 Lanerie C J Arnold. II George R.
092.7848 4 Zee Ro Drop 20-1 Hernandez. Jr. B J Pessin Neil L.
092.2068 10 Shamal 20-1 Cannon D Martinez Matthew R.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Laurel Park
Laurel Park - Race 10

EXACTA, TRIFECTA &10 cent SUPERFECTA / $1.00 SUPER HIGH 5


Claiming $16,000 • 5 1/2 Furlongs • Turf • Ages 3 and up • CR: 78 • Purse: $22,000 • Post: 5:00P
(RAIL AT 87 FEET). (PLUS UP TO 30% MBF) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $16,000, IF FOR $14,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS. (IF DEEMED INADVISABLE BY MANAGEMENT TO RUN THIS RACE ON THE TURF COURSE, IT WILL BE RUN ON THE MAIN TRACK AT FIVE AND ONE HALF FURLONGS)
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * ZIG ZILLION: Today is a sprint and the horse is carrying at least 120 lbs. LOOKING READY: Horse h as run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. GENERALIST: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Today is a sprint and the horse is carrying at least 120 lbs. JAMMER: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface.
2
ZIG ZILLION
7/2

5/1
8
LOOKING READY
3/1

5/1
7
GENERALIST
9/2

6/1
5
JAMMER
8/1

9/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
7
GENERALIST
7

9/2
Front-runner
85

81

84.1

71.1

64.6
4
NATIVE FLORA
4

12/1
Front-runner
69

70

78.6

61.7

48.2
8
LOOKING READY
8

3/1
Front-runner
91

82

75.4

67.3

59.3
9
FORTHEGREATERGOOD
9

5/1
Front-runner
71

69

74.2

63.4

52.9
2
ZIG ZILLION
2

7/2
Alternator/Front-runner
87

79

76.0

81.2

74.2
1
YANKEE TAR
1

15/1
Alternator/Stalker
80

70

72.8

66.0

54.0
10
A ROSE BY ANY NAME
10

10/1
Trailer
65

72

93.9

67.3

55.3
5
JAMMER
5

8/1
Trailer
74

77

34.8

68.8

58.8
6
FREEDOM STORM
6

30/1
Alternator/Non-contender
59

52

78.0

56.2

35.7
12
COWTOWNBLUE
12

30/1
Alternator/Non-contender
66

64

73.0

36.0

15.5
3
FRENCH'S QUEST
3

20/1
Alternator/Non-contender
72

62

64.0

50.6

35.1
11
RAZZY'S REWARD
11

12/1
Alternator/Non-contender
76

56

39.4

60.8

42.3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

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

Race 4 - Maiden Special Weight - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $31600 Class Rating: 71

FOR REGISTERED PA-BRED MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 7 MUNNY TIME 8/5

# 8 AFLEET MELODY 3/1

# 1 JONES TAXI 6/1

MUNNY TIME is my choice. He has been racing solidly lately while recording strong Equibase Speed Figures. Expect a speed boost today from this equine going on blinkers. Hamilton will most likely be able to get this gelding to break out quickly in this competition. AFLEET MELODY - Demonstrates the look of a lucrative play, averaging a solid 66 speed figure which is one of the most respectable in this field. JONES TAXI - Had one of the best Equibase speed figs of this field in his last outing. He has earned competitive figures under today's conditions and ought to fare well versus this group.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

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

Race 7 - Maiden Special Weight - 6.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $42075 Class Rating: 77

FOR ACCREDITED OKLAHOMA-BRED MAIDEN, THREE, FOUR, AND FIVE YEAR OLDS. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 4 OH SO PLAYFUL 3/1

# 1 GOLDEN DRILLER 7/5

# 3 KIPPER 8/1

My pick in this contest is OH SO PLAYFUL. Is hard not to consider based on Equibase Speed Figures which have been very good - 75 avg - of late. He looks solid in this spot and I expect will be on the lead or close at the midpoint. Is a contender - given the 67 Equibase Speed Figure from his most recent race. GOLDEN DRILLER - Demonstrates the look of a lucrative play, averaging a solid 61 Equibase Speed Fig which is one of the top in this group. Trainer boasts sharp win figures at this distance and surface. KIPPER - Is tough not to consider based on speed figures which have been decent - 62 avg - of late. Nolen has him trained admirably to break swiftly out of the gate.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Miami Dolphins vs. Houston Texans Preview and Predictions 10-25-2018 in NFL

NFL Previews 23rd October 2018 by Gracenote
by Gracenote on 10/23/2018

The Houston Texans have turned their fortunes around, answering a season-opening three-game losing skid that landed them in the cellar of the AFC South with four straight wins that catapulted them to the top of the division. The torrid Texans bid to continue their winning ways on Thursday when they welcome a familiar face in Brock Osweiler and the visiting Miami Dolphins to NRG Stadium.

"He ain't here no more, so I don't really care for him. We didn't win a lot with him," Pro Bowl defensive end Jadeveon Clowney told the Houston Chronicle of Osweiler, who lasted just one season with the Texans despite signing a four-year, $72 million contract in May 2016. The 6-foot-7, 240-pound Osweiler has fared much better in Miami with 619 yards passing and five touchdowns in two starts in place of the injured Ryan Tannehill. "No emotion. This really is just another game, but it's the most important one because it's the next one," Osweiler said of facing the Texans. An aggressive and opportunistic defense has been a major reason for Houston's ascent, as the club has yielded just 36 points in its last three games while recording three fumble recoveries and as many interceptions -- including one for a touchdown -- in its last two.

TV: 8:20 p.m. ET, FOX, NFL Network. LINE: Texans -7.5 O/U: 44.5

ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (4-3): Trade rumors began to circle as former first-round pick DeVante Parker was made a surprise inactive in Sunday's 32-21 setback to Detroit (as a +3 point home favorite at intertops), but injuries to fellow wideouts Albert Wilson (hip) and Kenny Stills (groin) have made it an easy decision for Adam Gase. "We don't have any more receivers, so I'm sure he's going to play," Gase said of the 25-year-old Parker, who claims he's 100 percent healthy after being hampered by a quadriceps injury. Danny Amendola led the team with six catches for 84 yards and a touchdown versus the Lions. Kenyan Drake found the end zone for the first time since Sept. 16 and has 15 catches in his last three games.



ABOUT THE TEXANS (4-3): Lamar Miller, who recorded his first 100-yard performance since the 2016 season in Sunday's 20-7 win over Jacksonville, shared his reasoning of opting against re-signing with his hometown team and inking a four-year, $26 million contract with the Texans in 2016. "They offered me to come back," the 27-year-old Miller told the Houston Chronicle. "I just felt like Houston at the time was a winning organization. They were giving me an opportunity to showcase my skill set. I don't regret anything. I love it here in Houston." Miller will face a Dolphins rush defense that was gashed for 248 yards by the Lions. Deshaun Watson overcame a bruised lung and injured ribs to throw a touchdown pass last week.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Houston's DeAndre Hopkins didn't take too kindly to Miami CB Xavien Howard claiming he "likes to push off a lot," so much so that the two-time Pro Bowl wideout offered the following response: "Who's Xavien Howard?"

2. Dolphins DE Cameron Wake recorded two sacks and two forced fumbles in last meeting with the Texans.

3. Houston has won seven of eight encounters overall with Miami, including all four at home.

PREDICTION: Texans 26, Dolphins 17

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Baylor Bears vs. West Virginia Mountaineers Preview and Predictions

NCAAF Previews 23rd October 2018 by Gracenote
by Gracenote on 10/23/2018

West Virginia looks to bounce back from a thorough beating when the No. 12 Mountaineers host Baylor on Thursday night in Big 12 play. West Virginia opened the season with five straight victories before getting outgained 498-152 in a 30-14 loss to Iowa State on Oct. 13.

The Mountaineers had a bye while they were nursing their pride and coach Dana Holgorsen is confident his team his ready to move on. "A lot of eyes will be on us to see how we respond to what happened up at Iowa State, so I'm looking forward to seeing us as well," Holgorsen said during a press conference. "I think our guys are determined and it showed out there at practice. I think we'll be ready to put our best foot forward." Baylor also is coming off a bye and gave Texas a good battle before losing 23-17 in its last outing. "Going into Morgantown on a Thursday night will be raucous," Bears coach Matt Rhule said during a press conference. "We better have the mentality where we can eliminate distractions and focus on the game and just take it one play at a time. West Virginia will make some big plays and we want to limit those big plays."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FS1. LINE: West Virginia -14

ABOUT BAYLOR (4-3, 2-2 Big 12): The Bears are averaging 33.4 points per game and have topped 30 on four occasions behind the steadiness of quarterback Charlie Brewer. The sophomore has passed for 1,798 yards and 10 touchdowns against three interceptions while senior Jalen Hurd has been his favorite target with 47 receptions for 622 yards and three touchdowns. But the defense has been shaky by allowing 31 points per game - including a season-worst 66 versus Oklahoma - while sophomore defensive tackle James Lynch is enjoying a solid campaign with a team-best four sacks.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA (5-1, 3-1): Senior quarterback Will Grier has thrown for 1,919 yards and 22 touchdowns against seven interceptions this season but passed for just 100 yards and one touchdown in a subpar performance against Iowa State. "They played us really hard and outplayed us in a lot of areas, and that was frustrating," Grier said in a press conference. "We have to be able to produce better. We have to move the chains, we have to score points. That was frustrating, but it's over and done with. We've all moved on to Baylor." The Mountaineers allow an average of 20.5 points per game with junior outside linebacker David Long Jr. having a strong season with 10.5 tackles for loss, including three sacks.

EXTRA POINTS

1. West Virginia has won four of the six meetings, including a 38-36 road victory last season.

2. Grier passed for 375 yards and five touchdowns - including three to now-senior WR David Sills V - in last season's game with Baylor.

3. Bears junior WR Denzel Mims has 100 career receptions - the 18th player in school history to reach the milestone.

PREDICTION: West Virginia 47, Baylor 34

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Toledo Rockets vs. Western Michigan Broncos Preview and Predictions 10-25-2018 in NCAAF

NCAAF Previews 24th October 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 10/24/2018

We might normally refer to the Western Michigan Broncos as a runaway train at the moment, because they have a six-game winning streak and are undefeated in the Mid-American Conference, but they don't have a very good pointspread record, so they have not necessarily been exceeding expectations.

This is a team that has a lot of athletes, and they will certainly be challenged this coming Thursday when they play host to the explosive Toledo Rockets in a game that will take place at Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo. But Toledo will have to come to a decision as to which quarterback will really take the lead.

TV: ESPN2, 7 PM ET. LINE: Western Michigan -6.5

ABOUT TOLEDO: They went into the locker room with a 17-7 halftime lead over a very formidable Buffalo squad, and that's why the second-half performance last Saturday was so disappointing. Toledo (now 3-4 SU, 2-5 ATS) yielded 24 unanswered points to the Bulls, who rolled to a 31-17 victory. Toledo got two big plays in the first half – a 70-yard touchdown run by redshirt freshman Bryant Koback and an 80-yard touchdown reception by the dynamic Diontae Johnson, coming off the arm of Eli Peters, who came in to relieve Mitch Guadagni. But that accounted for more than half of their total yards. Toledo had only eight first downs, compared to 32 for Buffalo, and they were so undisciplined it was laughable, getting penalized 12 times for 148 yards. In other words, they did very little in the process of possessing the ball less than 21 minutes. Peters was just 5-17 for 128 yards, and Guadagni left the game after just18 yards of total offense. Buffalo's Tyree Jackson threw for 326 yards, but Toledo was able to sack him five times, an accomplishment since the Buffalo offensive line had given up only one sack all season previous to this. The Rockets also had three interceptions, and linebacker Jordan Fisher had a career-best 12 tackles. They'll go into this game with questions about who is going to lead the team on the field going forward, but they do average 39.3 points a contest.



ABOUT WESTERN MICHIGAN: Last week's game came against an opponent that was decidedly non-threatening on offense (Central Michigan). And the weather was extremely windy. Therefore, WMU (6-2 SU, 3-5 ATS) did not necessarily have to take to the air with its offensive effort in a 35-10 victory. The Broncos had only 16 first downs, and Jon Wassink threw for only 51 yards, although it is worth mentioning that he only had to put the ball in the air nine times. There were a couple of factors that took care of the rest – one was the dynamic running back duo of LeVante Bellamy (19 attempts for 145 yards) and Jamauri Bogan (19 carries, 96 yards), coupled with Wassink's feet, which accounted for three rushing TD's, and another factor was the multitude of problems Central Michigan has on offense, including ineptitude at the quarterback spot. Tommy Lazzaro completed only nine of 24 passes against Western Michigan, and in terms of preparation, he offered nothing compared to what WMU is going to face this week, regardless of which QB they are facing. Linebacker Alex Grace was awarded honors as MAC West Defensive Player of the Week, as he had nine solo tackles and an interception. WMU ranks 23rd in Total Offense and 58th in Total Defense, but they are just 92nd in Passing Efficiency Defense.

EXTRA POINTS

1) Western Michigan will be looking for some revenge after last season's 37-10 loss in the Glass Bowl when they were outgained by 180 yards from scrimmage. Toledo leads the all-time series 42-30.

2. Western Michigan offensive coordinator Jake Moreland was a tight end at the school and one of head coach Tim Lester's favorite receivers when both of them played for the Broncos from 1996-99.

3. Toledo head coach Jason Candle is the highest-paid coach in the Mid-American Conference, having secured that deal after his 11-3 campaign in 2017, amid rumors that he was strongly considered for the job at Central Florida.

PREDICTION: Western Michigan 40, Toledo 27

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Ohio Bobcats vs. Ball State Cardinals Preview and Predictions 10-25-2018 in NCAAF

NCAAF Previews 24th October 2018 By Charles Jay for Scores And Stats
by Charles Jay Scores & Stats on 10/24/2018

The Ohio Bobcats, as it turns out, had a pretty good setup last week as they faced one of the worst defenses in the country. And they exploited that defense accordingly. Now they will face a team that indeed lacks a little on the stop end but is not nearly as permissive. Luckily for them, they have a nice dual threat at quarterback in Nathan Rourke.

As far as the Ball State Cardinals are concerned, they have already done better than they did last season, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're a threat yet in the Mid-American Conference. However, judging from their results against really capable teams like Northern Illinois and especially Notre Dame, even in defeat, they can be a handful under the right circumstances.

These teams will square off on Thursday night before a nationwide audience at Peden Stadium in Athens, Ohio.

TV: CBS Sports Network, 7 PM ET. LINE: Ohio -10.5

ABOUT OHIO: It had to be a somewhat awkward situation for Ohio coach Frank Solich, as an early-week coaching change left the Bowling Green Falcons in the hands of someone who could be considered his pupil. Solich, when he was head coaching Nebraska, gave Carl Pelini leaning his first assistant's job, but that doesn't mean he took it easy on his former charge. These teams were tied at 14 in the second quarter, before Ohio pulled away for good, and puled away big. Papi White had a huge day, with a 17-yard touchdown run and two touchdowns receptions, of 76 and 16 yards, from quarterback Nathan Rourke. Ohio (4-3 SU & ATS) fell just short of 600 yards in total offense, moving the chains for 32 first downs. And they easily handled a Bowling Green offense that was more beleaguered than usual, limiting them to just 13 first downs. Rourke, who threw a career-high four TD passes in the game, was named MAC East Division Offensive Player of the Week for the third time. His numbers compare favorably to a lot of top quarterbacks, as his 15.85 yards per completion ranks third best in the nation. With a "Thursday Night Lights" theme, it's going to be a "Blackout Night" in Athens against Ball State.



ABOUT BALL STATE: Mike Neu's team, which won only twice last season, was going after its fourth victory of 2018, but they had the misfortune of running into an Eastern Michigan squad that is very good on the road. It was 21-6 at the half, and Ball State never seriously threatened, going rather quietly with a 42-20 defeat. Riley Neal had only 157 yards on 39 passing attempts, and even though the ground game recorded 227 yards, 80 of those came on a run by Will Jones in the fourth quarter, long after the final outcome had been decided. Otherwise, they ran 31 times for 147 yards. Ball State hurt itself with penalties, getting flagged nine times for 108 yards, and that puts a lot of pressure on their defense because they can't hold onto the ball very long. Eastern Michigan had more than 37 minutes of possession, and those are the perils of having an offense that is more or less based on passing. The good news, one supposes, is that Ohio, which allows opposing quarterbacks to complete 66% of their throws, is only 120th in Pass Efficiency Defense. Only four teams in the country have accumulated more first downs than the Cardinals, although they average only 25 points a game because their red zone offense is poor (98th nationwide).

EXTRA POINTS

1. For Ball State, the game against Eastern Michigan was only their second "over" of the season, compared to six "unders."

2. Past meetings aren't really all that meaningful in terms of analyzing this matchup; they last faced each other in 2015, with Ohio winning 48-31 in Athens.

3. Among all of the head coaches in the "Group of 5" conferences, which includes the Mid-American, Sun Belt, Mountain West, American and Conference-USA, Ohio's Frank Solich has the longest-running current tenure, as he is in his 14th year at the school.

PREDICTION: Ohio 38, Ball State 24

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. Virginia Tech Hokies Preview and Predictions

NCAAF Previews 24th October 2018 by Gracenote
by Gracenote on 10/24/2018

Virginia Tech looks to contain the nation's most productive rushing offense and remain unbeaten in the ACC Coastal Division when it hosts inconsistent Georgia Tech on Thursday night. The Hokies, who are ranked 27th in the country in rushing defense, rallied to beat North Carolina 22-19 before their bye week and will go to work on a Georgia Tech triple-option attack that has averaged 352 yards on the ground.

"Time of possession is going to be huge for us," Virginia Tech quarterback Ryan Willis told reporters. "Eliminating three and outs and giving our defense some rest (is important), because that triple option can go for a long time on the field. We just need to do our best, execute our plays and take care of the ball." The Hokies have knocked off Florida State, Duke and North Carolina en route to first place alone in the Coastal, but have the four teams with winning records in conference play left on the schedule after meeting the Yellow Jackets. Georgia Tech rolled up 129 points combined to defeat Bowling Green and Louisville before suffering three fumbles on the way to a 28-14 loss on Oct. 13 in its last contest, and needs three wins over the final five games to qualify for a bowl. "What I want to accomplish is to go up there and not lay the ball on the ground. ... and not beat (ourselves) and give (us) a chance to win," Yellow Jackets coach Paul Johnson told reporters. "I think when we've done that, we've been pretty competitive and can be a pretty good team. There's a small margin for error."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN. LINE: Virginia Tech -3

ABOUT GEORGIA TECH (3-4, 1-3 ACC): The Yellow Jackets were held to 229 yards on the ground by Duke, including a team-high 62 from sophomore Jerry Howard, and senior quarterback TaQuon Marshall was held to a season-low 41. Marshall, who is probable with an upper-body injury, leads the team in rushing with 598 yards and nine of its 30 touchdowns on the ground while freshman running back Jordan Mason is next with 482. The Yellow Jackets' defense has had its moments this season, producing three touchdowns, and senior lineman Anree Saint-Amour boasts four sacks and three forced fumbles the past three games.

ABOUT VIRGINIA TECH (4-2, 3-0): Willis put together an 18-play, 98-yard drive that ended on a touchdown pass to tight end Dalton Keene with 19 seconds left to beat North Carolina in his third start since taking over for injured Josh Jackson. "He is tough and he's a competitor," Hokies coach Justin Fuente told reporters of Willis, who has seven TDs and 862 yards passing the last three games. "He stayed in there and battled and scratched and clawed and put together a nice drive." Sophomore Damon Hazelton (29 catches, 515 yards, five TDs) and junior Eric Kumah (21, 317, two) are the top options for Willis.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Virginia Tech is 23-9 on ESPN's Thursday Night Football package and 6-0 against the Yellow Jackets on Thursday all time - the last being 23-21 in 2015.

2. Georgia Tech has won in its last two trips to Blacksburg, Va., and took three of the past four in the series, including last year's battle 28-22 at home.

3. The Yellow Jackets have forced 16 turnovers - tied for 14th in the country - after finishing with 10 in 11 games last season.

PREDICTION: Virginia Tech 31, Georgia Tech 21

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Detroit Pistons Preview and Predictions 10-25-2018 in NBA

NBA Previews 24th October 2018 by Gracenote
Cavaliers vs. Pistons Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 10/24/2018

Blake Griffin is coming off a career-best 50-point effort but his main focus is helping the Detroit Pistons improve to 4-0. The Pistons look for another solid effort from their star power forward when they host the winless Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday.

Griffin led the way in Tuesday's 133-132 overtime win over the Philadelphia 76ers to become the first Detroit player to reach the 50-point mark since Richard Hamilton tallied 51 in a triple-overtime loss to the New York Knicks on Dec. 27, 2006, but he is ready to move on to the Cavaliers. "We've got to prepare," Griffin told reporters. "I'm very comfortable but I also know that this season is such a roller coaster that the quickest way to come out and get beat is to go into the next game thinking about this game." Cleveland is struggling in the wake of LeBron James' departure as a free agent and was routed 102-86 by the visiting Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday to start 0-4 for the first time since the 2003-04 campaign. "We've got to keep plugging away," Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue said in his postgame press conference. "... We can't let it fester. The good thing about the NBA is we have another one (Thursday). We have to be ready to play. Detroit is playing at a high level right now and we have to be ready for it."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, FS Ohio (Cleveland), FS Detroit

ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (0-4): Lue is finding it much harder to coach an NBA team without James on the roster as Cleveland's four setbacks are by an average of 14.5 points. His squad was obliterated 38-17 in the third quarter by the Nets - who made 16-of-22 shots in the quarter - and Lue used four timeouts to try to stem the tide to no avail. "Anytime you lose, it's tough." Lue told reporters. "We have to keep learning from it. We can use a different rotation and use different combinations. We've got to continue to keep playing."

ABOUT THE PISTONS (3-0): Griffin, a five-time All-Star, appears primed to again be mentioned as one of the elite players in the NBA after three straight troublesome campaigns that included the Los Angeles Clippers dealing him to Detroit midway through last season. "The past two, three years, all I hear is how bad I am," Griffin told reporters. "And, you know, I've been hurt, had bad games. I haven't even played the way I have. But we've talked about it: This summer, being able to work out for the first time in three summers, is huge. Last three summers, I was fighting and working as hard as I could to get healthy to be able to play. This summer, I was able to really put time in and work on my game, on my body." Griffin is averaging 36.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Cavaliers went 3-1 against the Pistons last season.

2. Cleveland C Tristan Thompson scored two points on 1-of-10 shooting versus the Nets after being 12-of-15 shooting over the previous two games.

3. Detroit G Reggie Jackson scored 23 points against Philadelphia and is averaging 20 per game.

PREDICTION: Pistons 116, Cavaliers 89