The Bum's Sports Page For Friday August 28th Best Bets-Trends-News !

[StarDust Bum]

Standings

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak

New York Liberty 18 8 0.692 0 9-3 9-5 10-6 7-3 L-1

Indiana Fever 17 10 0.630 1 9-5 8-5 10-7 8-2 L-1

Chicago Sky 17 11 0.607 2 11-3 6-8 12-6 6-4 W-2

Washington Mystics 15 11 0.577 3 9-5 6-6 8-10 5-5 L-2

Connecticut Sun 12 16 0.429 7 7-8 5-8 4-13 3-7 L-6

Atlanta Dream 11 16 0.407 7 7-6 4-10 7-9 4-6 W-2



WESTERN CONFERENCE

Team Win Loss Percent GB Home Away Conf. Last 10 Streak

Minnesota Lynx 19 9 0.679 0 10-3 9-6 14-5 5-5 L-1

Phoenix Mercury 17 11 0.607 2 11-4 6-7 13-5 6-4 W-2

Tulsa Shock 13 14 0.481 5 8-5 5-9 7-10 3-7 W-3

Los Angeles Sparks 11 17 0.393 8 6-8 5-9 8-10 7-3 W-3

Seattle Storm 7 20 0.259 11 5-7 2-13 6-11 2-8 L-1

San Antonio Stars 7 21 0.250 12 7-8 0-13 5-12 1-9 L-5

Updated Fri Aug 28 11:07 AM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preseason Week 3 Essentials

August 24, 2015

You read in this space last week that the preseason is not only a necessarily evil, but also, that you can profit on it if you invest the preparation time. That opinion hasn’t changed, but those who despise the fact we’re still only halfway through the exhibition schedule got massive amounts of ammunition in Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Green Bay’s top receiver, Jordy Nelson, tore his ACL. Top guard T.J. Lang left with a concussion. The Steelers lost center Maurkice Pouncey for most, if not all of the season, due to a broken fibula. DE Stephon Tuitt limped off with an ankle injury and backup QB Bruce Gradkowski hurt a finger. All of this happened inside of a half. It looked as ugly as it sounds, which is why you’ll hear outrage with the current system all week long.

Owners are stuffing their pockets, sure. We would all be better off with an 18-game regular season. One day, we’ll get it and find something else to complain about. Preseason games aren’t going away any time soon and it’s pointless to campaign for their removal. The injuries are unfortunate. Aaron Rodgers openly complained about how tough it is to lose Nelson in a “meaningless game.” It’s awful, but wouldn’t it be equally as disappointing if it had happened a few weeks from now in the Week 1 of the regular season?

In this case, the system is what it is. Football is what it is. The preseason isn’t exempt from the brutality we all appreciate and wager on.

Watch the second half of preseason action and you’ll see receivers getting blasted going over the middle as they try to field passes they’ll be catching on the practice squad – at best – if they happen to hold on enough. This is how football players make their livelihood. Let’s not feel sorry for anybody, especially given their earning potential. Linebackers and defensive backs are all in search of the big hit that will stand out when coaches review the film. That’s the game. This is the time of year they’ve been waiting for, the opportunity they train all year to try and take advantage of.

Nelson was lost for the season on an innocuous-looking play where he simply cut, lost his balance and had his knee give out. It could’ve happened in practice. It could’ve happened in the playoffs. He was playing football. Threat of injury is part of the job description.

Week 3 of the NFL preseason offers dress rehearsals for all. It’s almost like the 17th regular season game, by far the most important exhibition. We’ll undoubtedly lose a few more players. There won’t be any more of a consolation because it’s happening in a game that’s a tad more meaningful than the first or second preseason game. Here’s how the schedule unfolds:

Friday, Aug. 28

New England at Carolina: Whether or not there is any headway made on Tom Brady’s appeal, expect him to see his longest action this preseason against a sturdy Panthers defense. Cam Newton has gotten off to a rough start and started 0-for-4 with a pick against Miami in his first drive minus No. 1 WR Kelvin Benjamin, another victim of the preseason injury monster.

Tennessee at Kansas City: It's early, but QB Alex Smith has looked dreadful, turning the ball over with sloppy passes. He did finally complete a TD pass to a wideout last week, hitting new top target Jeremy Maclin. Establishing chemistry will be key here, while Marcus Mariota will look to get his first touchdown after being denied thus far.

Detroit at Jacksonville: QB Matthew Stafford has impressively marched the Lions offense down the field in his limited action despite top target Calvin Johnson sitting both games out as a healthy scratch. He’ll get some run against the Jaguars, who will see projected rookie starter T.J. Yeldon finally debut at tailback.

Saturday, Aug. 29

Pittsburgh at Buffalo: Losing Pouncey is a massive blow, as centers of his caliber are hard to come by. Getting new starter Cody Wallace up to speed at such a key position will now be the main focus of the offense between now and the season opener. Fortunately, he does have experience. Bills head coach Rex Ryan hasn’t announced a starting QB for this one, which is setting up as the final battle before Matt Cassel or Tyrod Taylor is handed the reins.

N.Y. Jets at N.Y. Giants: Snoopy Bowl 2015 features a pair of 1-1 teams that have each seen their share of struggles thus far. Injuries have played a large role in the shaky starts for both MetLife Stadium tenants, so it will be fun to see how they respond in a game that always seems to be competitive since both teams typically want the back page spoils.

Atlanta at Miami: The Falcons haven’t had running backs Davonte Freeman and Tevin Coleman in either preseason game and are hoping those guys can each gain some seasoning in South Florida. QB Ryan Tannehill’s improvement has the Dolphins excited. He’s led the Fins to touchdowns in three of his four drives.

Minnesota at Dallas: After Tony Romo made a cameo in San Francisco on Sunday, he will undoubtedly get his longest in-game workload of the preseason here. Adrian Peterson will sit out another game, but the Vikings have averaged 23 points per game without him as the passing game has looked sharp.

Cleveland at Tampa Bay: Ex-Buc starter Josh McCown is nursing an injured ring finger and backup Johnny Manziel had to cut Sunday’s practice short due to a sore elbow, so this could wind up being a difficult trip for the winless Browns. Rookie starting QB Jameis Winston should get plenty of varied defensive looks to work against, which can only aid his development.

Washington at Baltimore: Remember when we all doubted Joe Flacco? It wasn’t that long ago, so you should. Heck, there are still people who think it’s funny to debate whether the Super Bowl XLVII MVP is an elite quarterback. He plays like one, is paid like one and comes off posting career-highs in passing yards (3,986) and TD throws (27), so the answer is yes. On the other end of the spectrum is Robert Griffin III, who is both polarizing and currently mediocre despite all the hype. Sadly, new Ravens backup Matt Schaub is more accomplished than either or RG III or Kirk Cousins, which has to keep owner Dan Snyder up at night.

Chicago at Cincinnati: After playing at Tampa on Monday night, the Bengals turn right around and host the Bears, so it will be interesting to see how head coach Marvin Lewis treats this game. The Bears’ depth has been impressive so far this preseason, as they’ve outscored opponents 38-0 in the second half of games thanks to the play of their backups. With Jay Cutler scheduled to play into the second half, Chicago is looking for him to lead the team to its first touchdown after coming up empty in the first two games.

Philadelphia at Green Bay: The Packers are reeling from the loss of Nelson and have probably seen enough out of Rodgers that they won’t see the value in exposing him here, but backup Scott Tolzien was also banged up in Pittsburgh, suffering a concussion. Chip Kelly’s desire to see Sam Bradford take more live-action snaps may be dwarfed by the need to keep him healthy and confident, so be sure to monitor this situation.

Indianapolis at St. Louis: Both of these teams have struggled mightily so far, but there’s no panic setting. The Colts will be looking to see how their o-line holds up against the Rams’ primary strength. St. Louis will be looking to get Nick Foles on track after a dreadful start thus far.

Seattle at San Diego: This one is slated for a national broadcast and should be entertaining. The Seahawks have predictably not looked like themselves given the rebuilt offensive line and the absence of Legion of Boom members in the secondary, so 0-2 isn’t a big deal. Pete Carroll will want to see improvement against a Chargers squad that will allow Philip Rivers to participate for the first time since he went 2-for-2 on the opening drive of the team’s preseason.

San Francisco at Denver: QB Peyton Manning wasn’t able to get a rhythm in his debut, coming up empty on four drives while racking up just 67 yards on 19 plays in Houston. Count on him playing into the second half here as he seeks to gain his footing in Gary Kubiak’s new offense. Colin Kaepernick is 4-for-8 for 27 yards in limited action, so the 49ers are looking forward to seeing how he fares with a heavier workload.

Sunday, Aug. 30

Houston at New Orleans: Losing tight end Jimmy Graham to Seattle is a major blow, but there was justifiable criticism that Drew Brees was targeting him too much at the expense of some of the other targets on the roster. With an abundance of talented receivers to spread the ball to, Brees has looked like his old self. It should be a blast to see how quickly he can get rid of it against the Texans stout front seven. J.J. Watt should be rested and ready to go after sitting out Saturday’s game against the Broncos. The QB battle between Ryan Mallett and Brian Hoyer has seen Hoyer named the starter for Week 1, so we'll see how snaps are handed down here.

Arizona at Oakland: Despite the presence of elite rookie WR Amari Cooper to ease his burden, Derek Carr has only produced field goals and has largely misfired. The Cardinals secondary presents a great test for him. Carson Palmer has participated in both preseason games thus far, flashing a great deep ball and confidence in the pocket. If Arizona can keep him upright, it should stay in contention.

[StarDust Bum]

Friday's Preseason Tips

August 27, 2015

Patriots at Panthers (-1, 44) – 7:30 p.m. ET

New England

Head coach: Bill Belichick (44-39 SU, 40-36-7 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback rotation: Tom Brady, Jimmy Garoppolo, Ryan Lindley

Brady’s situation creates a dilemma for Belichick, who rode Garoppolo last week and knows he’s got to continue bringing him up to speed in case the Deflategate appeal doesn’t go his No. 1’s way. Brady has been razor-sharp in practices, but has struggled to move the Patriots in his limited preseason drives. Of course, the Patriots have been missing top WRs Julian Edelman, Brandon LaFell and Aaron Dobson in addition to tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Scott Chandler, so this has really been as strange an offseason as there’s ever been in a New England. Considering the team just lived through Aaron Hernandez overshadowing the 2013 version, that’s saying something.

Carolina

Head coach: Ron Rivera (10-8 SU, 10-7-1 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback rotation: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Joe Webb

Rivera plans on his starters going to 35-40 plays, likely having them start the second half in spite of all the injury trouble they’ve had this training camp. Center Ryan Kalil sprained his knee and is out the remainder of preseason, leaving Newton without his top protector. Despite this, the Panthers head coach thinks it’s important to press forward and avoid becoming snake-bit by a week which also saw his team lose top WR Kelvin Benjamin and DE Frank Alexander for the season.

Titans at Chiefs (-4, 44 ½) – 8:00 p.m. ET

Tennessee

Head coach: Ken Whisenhunt (11-20 SU, 11-19-1 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback rotation: Marcus Mariota (Rookie), Zach Mettenberger, Charlie Whitehurst, Alex Tanney

Mariota will be looking to find the end zone for the first time this preseason, but he made a number of eye-opening plays on Sunday night and will gain a little more seasoning here. Whisenhunt isn’t loving the idea of a dress rehearsal on a short week with so many players banged up, so he’s probably not going to have many of his starters play into the second half. Since Jason McCourty is now out for the rest of the preseason with a groin injury, the Titans are also getting a long look at their cornerback depth.

Kansas City

Head Coach: Andy Reid (30-36 SU, 28-34-4 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback Rotation: Alex Smith, Chase Daniel, Aaron Murray

No current coach has won this third preseason game more often than Reid, who is 10-6 entering this one. He’s treated this game like a typical regular-season contest since and continues to diligently follow that blue print, so expect Alex Smith and Chase Daniel to split all the snaps from center and a defense that has looked impressive thus far to continue attacking.

Lions at Jaguars (-2, 42) – 8:00 p.m. ET

Detroit

Head coach: Jim Caldwell (6-12 SU, 8-10 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback Rotation: Matthew Stafford, Dan Orlovsky, Kellen Moore, Garrett Gilbert

Stafford has gone 8-for-10 for 135 yards in his short preseason stint so far, but with Calvin Johnson unlikely to play here, he’s probably not going to play a full half either. Both Orlovsky and Moore have struggled in preseason, so Caldwell may utilize this game to come to a final decision between them. Orlovsky has pulled ahead.

Jacksonville
Head coach: Gus Bradley (3-7 SU, 5-5 ATS in preseason)

Quarterback rotation: Blake Bortles, Chad Henne, Stephen Morris, Jeff Tuel

Bortles has been productive despite not having a TD pass to his credit yet. He does have a TD run and has taken a lot of snaps through the first two games, so new coordinator Greg Olson may open things up for him as he’s likely to play into the second half. Rookie running back T.J. Yeldon will finally make his debut. Bradley is 0-2 in dress rehearsal games, but has won two of his last three home preseason dates.

[StarDust Bum]

Manziel out for rest of preseason

August 27, 2015

BEREA, Ohio (AP) Johnny Manziel's preseason is over, sacked by a stinging elbow.

Browns coach Mike Pettine said Thursday that Manziel, who has made strides in his second year in the NFL after a rough rookie season, will not play in Cleveland's last two exhibition games because of lingering soreness in his right elbow. The injury has bothered him for two weeks and is more serious than initially thought.

Manziel will miss Saturday's game at Tampa Bay as well as Cleveland's preseason finale at Chicago on Sept. 3. Pettine said the plan had been for Manziel to play against the Buccaneers starters in the second quarter, and for a half against the Bears.

''You can't get those reps back,'' Pettine said. ''He will lose out on all that real-game experience, but we are very pleased at where he is currently.''

It's a setback for Manziel, whose improvement on the field this summer and improvement off it has the Browns hopeful the former Heisman Trophy winner can one day solve their problems at quarterback.

For now, though, Manziel is not throwing any passes and Pettine isn't sure when the 22-year-old will resume full participation in practice.

''At some point we'll make the determination,'' Pettine said. ''Let's see how it feels and to me that's a training room, doctor's decision: Does he pick up a ball and start throwing again? And how many times does he do it? And how do we test it to make sure we're not overdoing it and not rushing him back from it?''

Manziel's sore elbow first kept him out of practice on Aug. 11 and the injury flared up Sunday, when he cut his workout short by more than 30 minutes. He hasn't thrown a pass this week, standing to the side as expected starter Josh McCown and backup Thad Lewis took snaps with Cleveland's offense.

Pettine said Manziel is frustrated at not being able to play, but understands it's best that he doesn't make his elbow worse.

''He's upset that he's not out there,'' Pettine said. ''He's upset that it got to this point, but he didn't fight us as far as him saying, `Forget this, I'm going to go out and do it.' He's smart enough to realize that it's the smart thing to do.''

With Manziel sidelined and No. 3 quarterback Connor Shaw recovering from ligament surgery on his right thumb, the Browns needed another quarterback for practice and signed free agent Pat Devlin, who has been with Miami, Minnesota and Chicago but hasn't taken a snap in a regular-season game.

Manziel's elbow problems date back to high school, said Pettine, who was asked if the Browns were aware of his issues before they drafted him in the first round last year.

''I am sure there was something in the medical reports about it, but it had been managed. ''

The Browns remain convinced that rest will help Manziel's elbow, but the team also initially downplayed the injury which doesn't seem to be responding as expected.

While Manziel won't play Saturday, the Browns should get their first look in a game situation at wide receiver Terrelle Pryor, the former Oakland QB trying to switch positions at age 26. Pryor came back to practice this week after being out with a hamstring injury and has made it through two practices without any trouble.

He knows his chances of making Cleveland's roster have diminished, and he's excited about getting an opportunity to showcase his talents. Pryor remains confident, but he knows he won't be handed anything.

''I've been cut three times, four times,'' he said. ''I know what it feels like. Would I like to be here? Absolutely. I know I could help this team and make plays for this team, but at the same time I can't control the decisions they make.''

Pettine said the Browns aren't looking for Pryor to do anything special.

''Just do his job,'' he said. ''Whatever his job is on that play, do it. Do it to the best of his ability. We know he's a project. We understand that. We're not expecting him to go out there and light it up and catch 10 balls for 150 yards and two touchdowns.

''We understand it's a process. It's just been unfortunate with the injury, the setbacks that we haven't been able to get as good of an evaluation as we wanted.''

NOTES: Pettine said all of Cleveland's starters will play the first half Saturday and some could be in during the third quarter. ... Pro Bowl CB Joe Haden is expected to play after missing the first two exhibitions.

[StarDust Bum]

Bills QB EJ Manuel to start Saturday

August 27, 2015

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) Don't count EJ Manuel out of the Buffalo Bills quarterback competition just yet.

After spending much of the previous two weeks working with the Bills' second- and third-stringers, Manuel will get his turn to start in Buffalo's third preseason game against Pittsburgh on Saturday.

Coach Rex Ryan made the announcement following practice Thursday, when the team returned to Orchard Park after breaking camp in suburban Rochester.

Acknowledging he didn't have an exact plan on who would start in the Bills' third preseason game when training camp started, Ryan said Manuel ''earned the shot at this.'' Ryan based that assessment on how Manuel went a combined 13 of 22 for 188 yards and two touchdowns in the second half of each of Buffalo's first two preseason games. That includes a touchdown drive and 2-point conversion in the final minutes to pull out an 11-10 win at Cleveland.

''I just love the competitiveness in him,'' Ryan said. ''All he's gotten is reps with the threes and the twos. And now it's a shot to get reps with the ones as well. And I feel good about that.''

The decision means all three quarterbacks competing for the No. 1 job will have had a start this preseason. Matt Cassel started the opener against Carolina, and Tyrod Taylor started against Cleveland last week.

Ryan, however, cautioned that while Manuel will start, Cassel and Taylor will also have a chance to work with the first-team offense against the Steelers.

That's fine with Manuel, because all he's wanted is a chance to prove himself under Ryan, who took over in January after Doug Marrone stepped down abruptly on Dec. 31.

''I think it's another great opportunity,'' Manuel said. ''I've just got to continue to work. The decision hasn't been made. Whatever I can continue to do to get better and show coaches that I can be the starter, I just want to continue to do that.''

Cassel is a 10-year journeyman and acquired in an offseason trade with Minnesota. He's a pocket passer, efficient in running the offense.

Taylor signed with Buffalo in March after spending the past four seasons as Joe Flacco's backup in Baltimore. Taylor is a mobile player, who has the potential of adding a read-option dimension to the Bills offense.

Manuel has remained upbeat despite an inconsistent and injury-troubled first two seasons in Buffalo since being selected in the first round of the 2013 draft. He went 4-6 as a rookie and missed six games due to three separate knee injuries. Last year, he went 2-2 to open the season before losing the starting job to journeyman Kyle Orton.

Manuel's latest opportunity comes 10 days after acknowledging that his days in Buffalo might be numbered. He told The Associated Press he didn't know if his long-term future was in Buffalo or ''somewhere else,'' and said he understood the business side of the game.

Manuel said his confidence has grown since capping the touchdown drive against Cleveland with a 14-yard pass to Andre Davis on fourth-and-goal.

''I'm a competitor and it just came out of me a little bit,'' Manuel said, referring to how he celebrated afterward on the sideline. ''I had to calm myself down because we still had some time left, but I was excited.''

Ryan hasn't revealed a timetable as to when he intends to name his starter. And he might wait until the week leading up to the season-opener against Indianapolis on Sept. 13 so as not to tip his hand to the Colts.

NOTES: RBs Boobie Dixon (calf) and Bryce Brown (hamstring) returned to practice Thursday, but it's unlikely they will play Sunday. ... The Bills are also expected to be without their top three WRs for a second straight game with Sammy Watkins (gluteal muscle/hamstring), Robert Woods (tightness) and Percy Harvin (hip) still nursing injuries.

... TE Charles Clay practiced and is expected to play after he hurt his knee on Tuesday.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL
Dunkel

Week 10

Montreal @ Hamilton

Game 283-284
August 27, 2015 @ 7:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Montreal
112.936
Hamilton
124.716
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 19
49
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 9 1/2
53
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-9 1/2); Under

Toronto @ Edmonton

Game 285-286
August 28, 2015 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
114.483
Edmonton
123.494
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 9
52
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 4
48
Dunkel Pick:
Edmonton
(-4); Over

Calgary @ Winnipeg

Game 287-288
August 29, 2015 @ 6:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Calgary
114.483
Winnipeg
123.994
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Winnipeg
by 9 1/2
54
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Calgary
by 6
49 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Winnipeg
(+6); Over

Saskatchewan @ Ottawa

Game 289-290
August 30, 2015 @ 4:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Saskatchewan
106.170
Ottawa
107.091
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Ottawa
by 1
46
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Ottawa
by 3
52 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Saskatchewan
(+3); Under

[StarDust Bum]

CFL
Long Sheet

Thursday, August 27

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

MONTREAL (3 - 5) at HAMILTON (6 - 2) - 8/27/2015, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all games this season.
HAMILTON is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
HAMILTON is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in games played on turf this season.

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

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

Friday, August 28

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

TORONTO (6 - 2) at EDMONTON (5 - 3) - 8/28/2015, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
EDMONTON is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons.
EDMONTON is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games in weeks 10 through 15 over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 3-2 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 4-1 straight up against EDMONTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

Saturday, August 29

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

CALGARY (6 - 2) at WINNIPEG (3 - 5) - 8/29/2015, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALGARY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.
CALGARY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in all games this season.
CALGARY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in all lined games this season.
CALGARY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) as a favorite this season.
CALGARY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in games played on turf this season.
WINNIPEG is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home games in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WINNIPEG is 2-2 against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
CALGARY is 4-1 straight up against WINNIPEG over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

Sunday, August 30

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

SASKATCHEWAN (0 - 8) at OTTAWA (4 - 4) - 8/30/2015, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SASKATCHEWAN is 117-82 ATS (+26.8 Units) as an underdog since 1996.

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

[StarDust Bum]

CFL

Week 9

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thursday, August 27

7:30 PM
MONTREAL vs. HAMILTON
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Montreal's last 15 games on the road
Montreal is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Hamilton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Montreal
Hamilton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home


Friday, August 28

9:00 PM
TORONTO vs. EDMONTON
Toronto is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Edmonton
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games on the road
Edmonton is 6-12 ATS in its last 18 games when playing at home against Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto


Saturday, August 29

6:00 PM
CALGARY vs. WINNIPEG
Calgary is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Calgary is 1-8 ATS in its last 9 games
Winnipeg is 1-11 SU in its last 12 games when playing Calgary
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Winnipeg's last 5 games


Sunday, August 30

4:00 PM
SASKATCHEWAN vs. OTTAWA
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Saskatchewan's last 7 games when playing Ottawa
Saskatchewan is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Ottawa
Ottawa is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Saskatchewan
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Ottawa's last 7 games when playing Saskatchewan

[StarDust Bum]

CFL

Thursday, August 27

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the day: Alouettes at Tiger-Cats
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Tiger-Cats head into Thursday's showdown with the Alouettes with a record of 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games overall.

Montreal Alouettes at Hamilton Tiger-Cats (-9.5, 53)

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats look to earn their CFL-leading seventh victory when they host the Montreal Alouettes on Thursday. The Tiger-Cats have won five straight games following a comprehensive 49-20 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos, and return home to Tim Hortons Field where they are a formidable 9-0 during the regular season.

Hamilton's offense continues to put up points at a remarkable rate scoring at least 49 in back-to-back games while its defense recorded its eighth defensive touchdown, which is three off the single-season record set by the BC Lions in 1987. The Alouettes snapped a three-game losing streak with a 23-13 road victory over the Lions but it wasn't enough to save Tom Higgins' job as the second-year coach was unceremoniously relieved of his duties a day after the victory. "We have made this change as we believe it is in the best interest of our team," Montreal owner Bob Wetenhall told reporters. "We all wish to express to Tom our affection and respect, as well as our appreciation for the contributions he has made to the franchise." General manager Jim Popp will assume the coaching duties as he looks to lead the Alouettes to their second win over Hamilton this year after a 17-13 victory in Week 4.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, TSN, RDS, ESPN2

LINE HISTORY: The Ti-Cats opened as 9.5-point home favorites and the total opened at 53.

INJURY REPORT: Tiger-Cats - WR Andy Fantuz (Six-Game IR, elbow)

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "Despite beating the B.C. Lions in Vancouver last week, they fired head Coach Tom Higgins, who will be replaced by GM Jim Popp. The Als will be double-digit dogs on the road in Hamilton Thursday, where the Ti-Cats are still undefeated. Montreal held Hamilton to a season low 13 points in Week 4, picking off Zach Collaros three times. Montreal leads the CFL in scoring defense, but Hamilton owns the league's top air attack, averaging over 300 passing yards per game."

ABOUT THE ALOUETTES (3-5 SU, 5-3 ATS, 1-7 O/U): Rakeem Cato had one of his most accurate performances of the year as he completed 16-of-19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown against BC. Tyrell Sutton ran for a game-high 111 yards and added another 43 receiving while Nik Lewis had four receptions for 52 yards and a touchdown in Week 9. Anthony Calvillo, who is the CFL's all-time passing leader, was named Montreal's new quarterbacks coach as part of the staff shakeup after spending the first seven games working with the wide receivers.

ABOUT THE TIGER-CATS (6-2 SU, 7-1 ATS, 3-5 O/U): Zach Collaros continued his recent tear as he threw for 300 yards and three touchdowns to go along with a rushing score against the Eskimos, and leads the CFL with 2,314 passing yards. Defensive end Eric Norwood has scored a defensive touchdown in each of his last two games, including a team-record 106-yard fumble return TD, which was the third longest in CFL history. Hamilton is set to retire the number of legendary offensive lineman Angelo Mosca, who played 158 games for the team, in a halftime ceremony Thursday.

TRENDS:

* Under is 19-7 in Tiger-Cats last 26 home games.
* Alouettes are 6-2 ATS in their last eight meetings.
* Tiger-Cats are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games overall.
* Under is 6-1 in Alouettes last seven games in August.

CONSENSUS: Fifty-three percent of users are backing the Tiger-Cats.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Thursday, August 27

Montreal (3-5) @ Hamilton (6-2)-- TiCats won/covered last five games since they were -4 in turnovers in 17-13 (+3) loss at Montreal in Week 4; total yardage was 390-338 for Hamilton. Home side won last 11 series gams; Alouettes lost last ten visits here (3-2 vs spread in last five). Als covered five of last seven games; they're 3-0 as road underdogs-- all five of their losses are by 4 or less points. Hamilton is 3-0 as home favorite, winning at home by average score of 41-13; they outscored last four foes 111-27 in first half. Seven of eight Montreal games, four of last six Hamilton games stayed under the total.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL

Thursday, August 27


Spread on the move in Alouettes-Tiger-Cats matchup

Sportsbooks have moved the pointspread in Thursday's lone CFL matchup as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats went from 9.5 to 10-point home favorites with the Montreal Alouetttes in town.

The Tabbies have been the CFL's best bet against the spread thus far in the campaign, sporting a 7-1 ATS record heading into Week 10.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL

Thursday, August 27


Ti-Cats backers look for team to stay perfect at home

It's a small sample size for the season, but the Hamilton Tiger-Cats have yet to lose straight up or against the spread on their home turf.

The Tabbies are 3-0 SU and ATS at Tim Hortons Field this season with big wins over the Toronto Argonauts (34-18), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (38-8) and BC Lions (52-22) on their resume.

Thursday's matchup features a visit from the Montreal Alouettes with the Ti-Cats pegged as 10-point faves after opening -9.5.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 10

Toronto (6-2) @ Edmonton (5-3)-- Eskimos (-4.5) lost season opener 26-11 in SkyDome, with Argonauts outgaining them 484-259. Toronto won five of last six series games, but they lost three of last four visits here-- home side won five of last six series games. Edmonton is 3-1 at home this year; favorites covered all four games- they got crushed 48-20 by Hamilton here last week. Argos won last three games by 4-7-6 points; they're 4-1 vs spread on road, 3-1 as a road dog. Seven of last nine series games went over the total.

Calgary (6-2) @ Winnipeg (3-5)-- Stampeders (-7.5) nipped Winnipeg 26-25 in Week 4, on FG with 2:14 left; Calgary was outgained by 53 yards but was +3 in turnovers. Stamps are 1-7 vs spread this season; five of its six wins are by 5 or less points- they're 1-2 SU on road, with only win by 3 last week at winless Saskatchewan. Winnipeg lost 11 of last 12 games with the Stampeders, winnng here LY as 10-point dogs; three of last four series games stayed under. Bombers lost three of last four games; they're 2-2 SU at home (losses by 26-7).

Saskatchewan (0-8) @ Ottawa (4-4)-- Winless Roughriders lost last two games by total of 7 points; they're 1-1-1 as road underdogs, losing away games by 3-25-4 points- five of eight losses overall are by 4 or less points. Ottawa is favored for first time this year; they lost four of last six games, are 3-1 SU at home, winning by 11-3-3 points- they lost 23-12 to Edmonton in Week 4. Last four Ottawa games went over total. Saskatchewan won both meetings LY, 38-14 here, 35-32 in OT at home-- both games went over the total.

[StarDust Bum]

CFL

Friday, August 28

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the Day: Argonauts at Eskimos
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

James Franklin went 22-of-36 for 254 yards and two interceptions after replacing Nichols in the loss to the Tiger-Cats.

Toronto Argonauts at Edmonton Eskimos (-5, 48.5)

The Toronto Argonauts look to stay hot when they hit the road to face the Edmonton Eskimos on Friday. The Argonauts have won three straight games following a 30-24 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks in Week 9 to keep pace with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the race for first place in the East Division.

Toronto has won five of six games against West Division opponents this season, including a 26-11 triumph over the Eskimos in Week 1, and hopes to notch four consecutive victories for the first time since 2013. Edmonton coach Chris Jones has decided to shake things up at quarterback following a demoralizing 49-20 home loss to the Tiger-Cats. Backup pivot James Franklin, who replaced the ineffective Matt Nichols late in the second quarter against Hamilton, is set to make his first CFL start after a number of relief appearances. Franklin has thrown five touchdown passes compared to one interception, and has been tasked with leading the Eskimos through a brutal gauntlet of games against Toronto, Calgary and Hamilton in the next three weeks.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, TSN, ESPN2

LINE HISTORY: Books opened the Eskimos at -3.5 but they are now -5. The total opened at 48 and is up a half point to 48.5.

INJURY REPORT: Argonauts - SB Andre Durie (Six-game IR, knee), QB Ricky Ray (Six-game IR, shoulder). Eskimos - Mike Reilly (Late October, knee).

ABOUT THE ARGONAUTS (6-2 SU, 5-3 ATS, 4-4 O/U): Trevor Harris continues to be a revelation for Toronto as he threw for 266 yards and three touchdowns against Ottawa to give him a league-best 19 TD passes on the season. Swayze Waters returned to the fold after missing six games with a knee injury and booted two crucial field goals in the fourth quarter, including the go-ahead kick from 34 yards, against the Redblacks. "An unbelievable performance by him," Toronto coach Scott Milanovich told reporters. "Actually I shouldn't say that because it's believable with Swayze."

ABOUT THE ESKIMOS (5-3 SU, 5-3 ATS, 3-5 O/U): Franklin went 22-of-36 for 254 yards and two interceptions after replacing Nichols, who is tied for the league lead with 10 interceptions, in the loss to the Tiger-Cats. "Nichols has played very good football for us but James graded out a little better and that's the direction we're going," Jones told reporters. "He played against a very good defense the other night and performed well." Derel Walker continues to impress as the rookie wide receiver has caught 24 passes for 308 yards in two games since being inserted into the lineup Aug. 13.

TRENDS:

* Over is 5-1 in the last six meetings.
* Argonauts are 12-5 ATS in their last 17 meetings in Edmonton.
* Argonauts are 1-5 ATS in their last six games in August.
* Eskimos are 8-1 ATS in their last nine home games.

CONSENSUS: Fifty-five percent of users are backing the Eskimos.

[StarDust Bum]

http://www.cfl.ca/video/index/id/115207