The Bum's Sports Page For Friday September 18th Best Bets-Trends-News !

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CFL

2015 Regular Season Standings



West Division

GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV STREAK

Calgary 11 8 3 0 16 287 224 6 - 0 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 4 - 1 - 0 L1

Edmonton 11 7 4 0 14 272 197 5 - 1 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 3 - 2 - 0 W1

BC 10 4 6 0 8 222 281 2 - 3 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 3 - 1 - 0 L1

Winnipeg 11 4 7 0 8 209 317 3 - 3 - 0 1 - 4 - 0 3 - 4 - 0 W1

Saskatchewan 11 1 10 0 2 262 335 1 - 5 - 0 0 - 5 - 0 1 - 6 - 0 L1


East Division

GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV STREAK

Hamilton 11 8 3 0 16 392 221 4 - 1 - 0 4 - 2 - 0 3 - 2 - 0 W2

Ottawa 10 6 4 0 12 224 259 4 - 1 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 2 - 1 - 0 W2

Toronto 11 6 5 0 12 277 322 3 - 1 - 0 3 - 4 - 0 1 - 3 - 0 L3

Montreal 10 4 6 0 8 207 196 2 - 3 - 0 2 - 3 - 0 2 - 2 - 0 L1

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http://www.cfl.ca/article/preview-co...mps-host-lions

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WNBA
Dunkel

Friday, September 18


Washington @ New York

Game 605-606
September 18, 2015 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington
111.487
New York
112.923
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New York
by 1 1/2
144
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New York
by 6 1/2
140 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(+6 1/2); Over

Los Angeles @ Minnesota

Game 607-608
September 18, 2015 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Los Angeles
110.987
Minnesota
113.003
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 2
150
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 6
146 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Los Angeles
(+6); Over




WNBA
Long Sheet

Friday, September 18

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WASHINGTON (18 - 16) at NEW YORK (23 - 11) - 9/18/2015, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 277-333 ATS (-89.3 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 41-67 ATS (-32.7 Units) in road games in August or September games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 52-75 ATS (-30.5 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 174-219 ATS (-66.9 Units) vs. division opponents since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 15-26 ATS (-13.6 Units) after a division game over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 23-10 ATS (+12.0 Units) in all games this season.
NEW YORK is 83-58 ATS (+19.2 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
NEW YORK is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) after a division game this season.
NEW YORK is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
NEW YORK is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) after scoring 75 points or more this season.
NEW YORK is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 7-6 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 7-6 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
8 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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LOS ANGELES (14 - 20) at MINNESOTA (22 - 12) - 9/18/2015, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOS ANGELES is 28-41 ATS (-17.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest over the last 3 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 7-14 ATS (-8.4 Units) after a division game this season.
MINNESOTA is 35-22 ATS (+10.8 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in home games on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in home games when playing with 3 or more days rest over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 8-5 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 8-5 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
10 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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WNBA

Friday, September 18

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. NEW YORK
Washington is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games on the road
New York is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Washington
New York is 19-5 SU in its last 24 games when playing at home against Washington

9:00 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Los Angeles is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing Los Angeles
Minnesota is 3-9 ATS in its last 12 games

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CFL
Long Sheet

Friday, September 18

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BRITISH COLUMBIA (4 - 6) at CALGARY (8 - 3) - 9/18/2015, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 82-58 ATS (+18.2 Units) as an underdog since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
CALGARY is 4-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
CALGARY is 4-3 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Saturday, September 19

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EDMONTON (7 - 4) at HAMILTON (8 - 3) - 9/19/2015, 4:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 2 seasons.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all games this season.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in games played on turf this season.
HAMILTON is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in non-conference games this season.
HAMILTON is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
HAMILTON is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 9 or more games over the last 3 seasons.
EDMONTON is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.

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

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OTTAWA (6 - 4) at SASKATCHEWAN (1 - 10) - 9/19/2015, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OTTAWA is 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) in road games since 1996.
OTTAWA is 17-32 ATS (-18.2 Units) in road lined games since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 31-15 ATS (+14.5 Units) in home games in September games since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 108-74 ATS (+26.6 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 10-19 ATS (-10.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SASKATCHEWAN is 10-19 ATS (-10.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SASKATCHEWAN is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
SASKATCHEWAN is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) off a division game over the last 2 seasons.
SASKATCHEWAN is 10-19 ATS (-10.9 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
SASKATCHEWAN is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) off a loss against a division rival over the last 3 seasons.

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

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Sunday, September 20

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WINNIPEG (4 - 7) at MONTREAL (4 - 6) - 9/20/2015, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WINNIPEG is 11-27 ATS (-18.7 Units) in road games in September games since 1996.
WINNIPEG is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in weeks 10 through 15 over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WINNIPEG is 4-1 against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
WINNIPEG is 5-1 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CFL

Week 13

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Trend Report
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Friday, September 18

9:00 PM
BRITISH COLUMBIA vs. CALGARY
The total has gone UNDER in 17 of British Columbia's last 25 games
British Columbia is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Calgary's last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Calgary's last 9 games when playing British Columbia


Saturday, September 19

4:00 PM
EDMONTON vs. HAMILTON
Edmonton is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Hamilton
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Hamilton's last 8 games when playing at home against Edmonton
Hamilton is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Edmonton

9:00 PM
OTTAWA vs. SASKATCHEWAN
Ottawa is 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games on the road
Ottawa is 2-15 SU in its last 17 games on the road
Saskatchewan is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Saskatchewan's last 6 games at home


Sunday, September 20

1:00 PM
WINNIPEG vs. MONTREAL
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Winnipeg's last 6 games on the road
Winnipeg is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Montreal
Montreal is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Winnipeg
Montreal is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against Winnipeg

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CFL
Dunkel

Week 13


BC Lions @ Calgary

Game 291-292
September 18, 2015 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
BC Lions
106.988
Calgary
122.755
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Calgary
by 16
44
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Calgary
by 11 1/2
47 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Calgary
(-11 1/2); Under


Edmonton @ Hamilton

Game 293-294
September 19, 2015 @ 4:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Edmonton
119.324
Hamilton
127.7113
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 8 1/2
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 5 1/2
51
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-5 1/2); Under

Ottawa @ Saskatchewan

Game 295-296
September 19, 2015 @ 9:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Ottawa
111.817
Saskatchewan
108.980
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Ottawa
by 3
46
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Saskatchewan
by 2 1/2
50 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Ottawa
(+2 1/2); Under


Winnipeg @ Montreal

Game 297-298
September 20, 2015 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Winnipeg
106.891
Montreal
112.744
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Montreal
by 6
39
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Montreal
by 10
43
Dunkel Pick:
Winnipeg
(+10); Under

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CFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 13

British Columbia (4-6) @ Calgary (8-3)-- Stampeders just split pair with rival Edmonton; they're 5-1 in last six games overall, 6-0 SU at home (2-4 as home favorite, covering last two). Calgary won six of last nine series games; home side won six of last seven series games. Lions lost five of last seven after getting outscored 17-0 in second half of last week's 31-18 home loss to Ottawa. BC is 2-3 away from home, 2-1 as road underdogs- they're 0-5 when they score less than 25 points. Last three games for both sides stayed under total.

Edmonton (7-4) @ Hamilton (8-3)-- TiCats (-2) hammered Eskimos 49-20 in Edmonton four weeks ago, with +4 turnover ratio (5-1)- Eskimos outgained Hamilton 481-377. TiCats won three of last four series games, won/covered seven of last eight games overall- they're 3-1 as home favorites. Edmonton split last six games after 4-1 start; they're 2-3 on road, 1-1 as road dogs. Eskimos trailed four of last five games at halftime. Average total in last eight series games is 56.6 (over 5-3).. Under is 6-3 in last nine games for both sides.

Ottawa (6-4) @ Saskatchewan (1-10)-- RedBlacks (-3) outscored Saskatchewan 21-3 in second half of 35-13 home win over Roughriders three weeks ago, their first win in three series games, and only game this year Ottawa was favored to win. Ottawa has covered five of last six games overall, but lost three of last four on road, allowing 35.5 ppg (over 3-1). Despite dismal season, Roughriders are favored for third week in row- they led last three games at halftime. Four of their six home games got over total. Four of last six RedBlack games went over the total.

Winnipeg (4-7) @ Montreal (4-6)-- Blue Bombers lost six of last eight games since beating Montreal 25-23 (-3) in Week 3; they had +3 turnover ratio, were outgained 433-324. Winnipeg lost four of last five games, with win over 1-10 Roughriders; they've lost last four road games, failing to cover three in row. Montreal lost four of last six games, scoring 14 ppg in losing last two at home- they're 1-3 vs the spread as favorites this year. Nine of ten Montreal games, eight of last nine Winnipeg games stayed under the total. Winnipeg won last five games vs Montreal (underdogs 4-1 vs spread).

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NCAAF

Friday, September 18

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the Day: Florida State at Boston College
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The Seminoles are just 2-5 against the spread in their last seven meetings with Boston College.

Florida State Seminoles at Boston College Eagles (+9, 46.5)

Florida State sophomore running back Dalvin Cook looks to continue shredding defenses while taking pressure off quarterback Everett Golson as the No. 6 Seminoles visit Boston College on Friday in the ACC opener for both teams. Cook rushed for 422 yards and five touchdowns in his first two games - including 266 yards and three scores on 30 carries in Florida State's 34-14 victory over USF last week - and is well on his way to surpassing his freshman totals of 1,008 and eight.

Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher said he wasn't planning to have Cook run 30 times but told reporters "if he’s hot like that and he can finish, we’re going to continue to give it to him.” Florida State tries for its sixth straight victory over the Eagles but must figure out a way to start quicker on offense - a point of emphasis in Monday's practice - as it's scored 28 of its 93 points in the first half. Golson, who transferred after graduating from Notre Dame, is 33-of-51 for 465 yards without an interception, and his five touchdowns all have come in the second half. Boston College outscored FCS members Maine and Howard 100-3 and has allowed only 102 yards of total offense in its first two games as it tries to upset a ranked opponent at home in its third game for the second straight season after defeating No. 10 USC 37-31.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, ESPN

LINE HISTORY: Books opened FSU as 8-point road faves, but that is currently FSU --9. The total is down to 46.5 after opening 51.

INJURY REPORT: Florida State - OL Cole Minshew (Out, ankle), DE Chris Casher (Out, knee), DE Lorenzo Featherston (Out indefinitely, knee). Boston College - LB Tim Joy (Questionable, knee).

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-70s with wind blowing from the south at around six miles per our.

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "Boston College comes into this game with a 2-0 SU record, but the Eagles have played a pair of weak FCS teams. They beat Maine and Howard by a combined score of 100-3, but the Eagles are now taking a monumental step-up in class versus Florida State. Boston College is expected to have a down season, and their first two big wins will not be indicative of how their season will turn out going forward."

WHAT BOOKS SAY: "We opened FSU as 9-point faves in this matchup and it has bounced -9 and -8 through the week finally settling in our current number of FSU -8.5 with good two-way action with BC getting 48 percent of that action to cover the spread."

ABOUT FLORIDA STATE (2-0 SU, 1-1 ATS, 1-1 O/U): While the offense has scored on all 11 second-half possessions this season, the defense has held its first two opponents to fewer than 300 yards - an achievement accomplished only three times in 2014. Sophomore defensive back and All-America candidate Jalen Ramsey already has broken up four passes this season - most among ACC players - and allowed only one completion while being targeted 12 times. Sophomore linebacker Ro'Derrick Hoskins recorded seven tackles against USF, and his 10 this season give him a share of the team lead with sophomore linebacker Jacob Pugh.

ABOUT BOSTON COLLEGE (2-0 SU, 1-1 ATS, 1-1 O/U): The Eagles tried to simulate the Seminoles' speed by pitting their top units against each other at Monday's practice. "There can’t be a bunch of mistakes, a bunch of penalties. You can’t get shocked by the speed of the game,” coach Steve Addazio said at his weekly press conference. Boston College didn't get the feel of a big-time game in its 76-0 victory Howard last week in a contest shortened to 10-minute quarters in the second half by mutual agreement.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Boston College.
* Seminoles are 2-5 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Eagles are 5-2 ATS in their last seven conference games.
* Over is 6-1 in Seminoles' last seven road games.

CONSENSUS: Fifty-three percent of users are backing Florida State.

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NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 2

Texans (0-1) @ Panthers (1-0)-- Houston already has QB controversy after Hoyer was yanked in loss to KC last week; Mallett came off bench and put 10 points up in garbage time. Texans won last six road openers but were a favorite in last five; they are 2-1 vs Carolina, winning 34-21 in only visit here, in '07. Carolina is 1-9-1 vs spread as favorite in home openers; under is 13-5 in their last 18. Last 2+ years, Texans are 0-6-1 as road favorites of 3 or less points. Panthers were 8-17 on third down, had three takeaways (+2) in win at Jacksonville last week. Last two years, Carolina is 7-2-2 as home favorite; since '07, 14-10-1 as home fave of 3 or less.

Buccaneers (0-1) @ Saints (0-1)-- Winston had tough time in NFL debut, tossing pick-6 on first pass; they were down 21-0 before his first completion. Saints won last seven series games, with three of last four by 3 or less points or in OT; Bucs lost last four visits here, with three losses by 11+ points. NO won six of last seven home openers (5-1-1 as a favorite in HO's)- eight of last 11 home openers stayed under total. Tampa lost last three and seven of last nine road openers; five of their last seven went over. Saints were 2-6 as home faves LY, after being 31-18 in that role from '07-'13. Since '09, Buccaneers are 25-19-1 as a road underdog.

49ers (1-0) @ Steelers (0-1)-- Over last decade, team that lost the Thursday night season opener is 3-6-1 vs spread m its Week 2 game. Short week, long travel for Niner squad that ran ball for 230 yards in 20-3 win over Minnesota Monday night. Since '11, 49ers are 6-2 as non-divisional road underdogs. Steelers are 7-5 as home favorites last two years; under is 25-15 in their home games since '10. Pitt put up 464 total yards in loss at Foxboro last week; they're 11-1 in last 12 home openers, 7-3 vs spread when favored. Five of last six home openers stayed under. 49ers are 6-2 in last eight road openers; under is 4-1-1 in last six. Niner coach Tomsula won his first game as head coach, now comes back to where he grew up for this.

Lions (0-1) @ Vikings (0-1)-- Detroit blew 21-3 lead in opening loss at San Diego; Rivers was 35-42/388 passing against them. Minnesota was dismal in Monday night loss at 49ers, giving up 230 rushing yards. Lions are 6-3 in last nine series games, but lost four of last six visits here. Minnesota lost five of last seven home openers; three of last four went over total. Last four years, Vikings are 7-9-1 as a home favorite, 2-3 in division games. Detroit is 4-9 as road underdog since 2012; in Chargers' last three drives Sunday, they scored three TDs in row, gaining 172 yards on 21 plays. Lion defense faded late after scoring TD in second quarter.

Patriots (1-0) @ Bills (1-0)-- Pats are 21-2 in last 23 games vs Buffalo, 7-1 last eight games vs Rex Ryan; NE is 10-1 in last 11 visits here, winning last three by 24-2-15 points- they're 6-3 in last nine road openers. Super Bowl champ does well in first game following year, but over last 14 years, they're 2-12 vs spread in Week 2 tilt. Bills are 10-3 as home dogs since '11, 7-2 in last nine AFC East home games- they are 9-7 in games with spread of 3 or less points since '13. Taylor averaged 10-3 ypa in his first NFL start last week, upset win over Indy. Patriots were 7-11 on 3rd down last week; they're 22-13 in last 35 games with spread of 3 or less points.

Cardinals (1-0) @ Bears (0-1)-- Arizona is 13-3-1 under Arians in games where the spread was 3 or less points. Redbirds covered last seven road openers, going 5-2 SU; four of their last five road openers were decided by 4 or less points. Seven of Arizona's last eight road openers stayed under total. Chicago won six of last eight series games; home side lost last three meetings. Arizona won 41-21 in last visit here ('09). Bears ran ball for 189 yards in LW's loss to Packers, but scored only 10 points in three red zone drives- over last three years, Bears are 6-16-2 vs spread in games with spread of 3 or less points. Arizona was stingy in red zone last week, allowing one TD on Saints' four drives since their 20.

Titans (1-0) @ Browns (0-1)-- Cleveland is 2-14 in home openers, 0-5 when they're favored. Browns (+2) upset Titans 29-28 LY, after trailing 28-10 at half. Browns won four of last six series games; home side lost six of last eight. Titans won four of last five visits here, last of which was in 2011. Over last 4+ years, Tennessee is 7-14-2 in games with spread of 3 or less points. Cleveland is 16-22-2 vs spread at home since '10- under is 21-10-1 in Browns home games since '11. Mariota had a great debut (13-16/185, 10.3 ypa); they were 4-4 in red zone, scored defensive TD. McCown had concussion last week; Manziel struggled in Swamp last week.

Chargers (1-0) @ Bengals (1-0)-- San Diego won four of last five visits here, in a series where visitor won last three meetings. Since '12, Chargers are 12-6-1 as road underdogs- over is 24-16 in their road games since '10. Bolts covered last three road openers- five of their last eight went over. Bengals are 10-5-2 as home faves since '12; over is 11-5 in Cincy home games last two years. Bengals won four of last five home openers (under 6-1 in last seven); they waxed Oakland last week, while Chargers came back from 21-3 deficit at home to beat Lions-- Rivers was 35-42/388 passing. Since '07, Cincy is 24-13-1 in games with spread of 3 or less.

Rams (1-0) @ Redskins (0-1)-- Huge trap game for St Louis squad that upset the Seahawks last week; Rams blanked Washington 24-0 here LY, when Fisher sent out six guys for coin toss acquired in RGIII trade. Rams won five of last seven in series, winning two of last three here (average total 25.3). St Louis lost 12 of last 13 road openers (over 3-1 last four). Washington is 3-7 in last ten games as home underdog; since '07, they're 3-10-2 as non-divisional home dogs. Rams were one of two teams (Dallas) last week to win despite -2 or worse turnover margin- they ran punt back for TD. Washington gave up PR to Miami for game-losing TD.

Falcons (1-0) @ Giants (0-1)-- Giants need win here after poor management cost them win in Dallas Sunday night, but they've lost last three home openers, giving up 30 ppg. Big Blue won five of last six series games, with five of six decided by 10+ points; Atlanta lost last three visits here, by 3-22-10 points. Last 2+ years, Falcons are 5-10 in games with spread of 3 or less points- they're on short week after Monday night win, when they blew 20-3 halftime lead, then kicked GW FG late. Giants allowed 356 passing yards in Dallas, allowing 356 PY in game where they had +3 TO ratio- could struggle vs Julio Jones, who caught nine balls for 141 yards with two TDs Monday night.

Ravens (0-1) @ Raiders (0-1)-- Unsure of Carr's status (hand) here; McGloin led two garbage time TD drives last week. Baltimore is 7-1 in last eight series games, winning last four meetings by average score of 33-12; Ravens are here for first time since '09- they're 7-10 as road favorites since '11. Since 2010, Oakland is 9-15-1 as home underdog; seven of its last nine home games went over total. Ravens' only TD in Denver loss was scored by defense; they were outgained 219-173, got to Bronco red zone once, but didn't score. Baltimore was one of three teams not to score offensive TD last week (Broncos/Vikings). Raiders last series win: '03.

Dolphins (1-0) @ Jaguars (0-1)-- Miami is trying to cover as road favorite for 2nd week in row; over last ten years, teams are 30-26 vs spread in this spot, but Miami is one of six NFL teams that hasn't been in this spot. Dolphins (-6) scored two defensive TDs in 27-13 win over Jax LY; they won last three vs Jaguars by 4-21-14 points. Since '12, Jaguars are 11-28-1 as home underdogs. Miami covered three of last four as road favorite. Jax turned ball over three times (-2) last week, gave up a defensive TD, but their defensive only allowed one TD- they scored only 10 points in three red zone drives. Under is 32-17 in Dolphin road games since '09, 21-12 in last 33 Jaguar home tilts.

Cowboys (1-0) @ Eagles (0-1)-- Home side lost six of last seven games in rivalry that was intensified by Murray signing with Iggles as free agent. Dallas won last three visits here, all by 11+ points. Philly is 2-4 in last six home openers, 6-13 after losing as a favorite- they scored 30-34 points in two HOs under Kelly. Cowboys covered seven of last eight road openers; they're 9-3 as underdog in road opener, with five of last seven staying under total. Dallas needed miraculous comeback to nip Giants last week; Eagles rallied back from 20-3 halftime deficit but fell 26-24 in Atlanta; Bradford threw for 336 yards in Eagle debut, is now 18-31-1 as NFL QB.

Seahawks (0-1) @ Packers (1-0)-- Seattle won last three series games, winning OT game at home in playoffs LY, after Pack couldn't recover onside kick, but Hawks also lost last five visits to Lambeau, with two of those five playoff games. Since 2007, Packers are 35-20-2 as home favorites; they're 6-2 vs spread last eight home openers (7-1 SU), with last four going over total. Since '11, Seattle is 8-4-3 as road underdog; they gave up 297 passing yards to Foles last week- what will Rodgers do vs secondary weakened by Chancellor's absence? Pack won in Chicago last week after trailing 13-10 at half; Bears ran for 189 yards, were 11-17 on 3rd down.

Jets (1-0) @ Colts (0-1)-- Jets took advantage of Browns' lousy QB situation last week, getting five turnovers in 31-10 win, but over last three years, Indy is 6-0-1 vs spread in game after they lost as a favorite. Colts are 10-7-1 as home favorites since '12, but covered only one of last five as a favorite in home opener. Jets won three of last four series games; two of four were playoff games; they're 3-2 in last five visits here. Since 2011, Jets are 9-14-2 as road underdogs, 2-11-2 outside the AFC East. Last five years, under is 24-16 in Colt home games. Not sure why Indy is letting Pagano coach as free agent, but it ain't helping- they had a -3 turnover ratio last week, lost to a QB making his first NFL start.

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At the Gate - Friday

September 17, 2015

It was a goofy day on Thursday, complete with a couple of bonehead rides and upset winners that made little or no sense. It leads to a two-day Pick 6 carryover for Friday of $78,377.

We saw my personal whipping boy Jose Ortiz ride a bit too confident in the opener, have to settle for second aboard the 3-5 chalk Northern Screamer, and then was on the beaten favorite in the second race as well. He still managed to win three races on the card.

In the third race Malibu Charlie with Joel Rosario was much the best but had to settle for second after the jockey got caught down inside behind foes in the stretch with nowhere to go. He finally got clear but it was too late and he came up a length short.

Trainer Michelle Nevin came into the day with a 0 for 6 record after winning just one race from 35 starters at Saratoga. The former Rick Dutrow assistant came up with a pair of winners on yesterday’s card, and after seeing David Jacobson win with a couple of longshots on Wednesday, both barns should be watched closely as they seem back on track.

Coming up on Saturday, we will look at the stakes action from Parx including the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby (G2) and the $1 million Cotillion (G1).

Here is today’s opening race from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:

BEL Race 1 OClm $62,500N2X (12:55 ET)
5 Lady Luciano 5-2
1 Jules N Rome 9-5
4 Literata 7-2
2 In Spite of Mama 4-1

Analysis: Lady Luciano chased the early pace and tired to finish ninth last out at this level going 5 1/2 on the turf. She is now 0 for 6 on turf and should appreciate the return to the main track. She passed her first state bred condition in the mud going two turns on the inner track so the one turn mile should be well within her scope. She has speed in a short field and that is dangerous at this meeting the way some of these jockeys have been riding.

Jules N Rome beat $50,000 claimers last out in the slop in a race washed off the grass. She is back with state breds here and if we knock out her last two turn starts she has won three in a row on the main track. She did not face a real tough group last out beating just four foes but only has to take on four here as well.

Wagering
WIN: #5 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 5 / 1,4
TRI: no play

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:

BEL Race 7 Alw $50,000s (4:13 ET)
7 Union River 9-2
6 Mid Ocean 7-2
9 Tapitsphere 3-1
4 African Fighter 8-1

Analysis: Union River made a good late rally to get up late and graduate for a $50,000 tag going seven furlongs at the Spain his first go off nearly a four-month layoff. The colt caught a racing strip that was playing to inside speed that day. The colt looks capable of handling the extra furlong for the Tony D. barn that is 32% winners moving runners from sprint to route.

Mid Ocean was a good-looking maiden winner two back at Delaware Park in his sixth career start and then the connections saw fit to put him in a bad spot in the Travers (G1) where he was badly outrun. This is a better spot and his figs two and three back are a good fit in this spot.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 6,7 / 4,6,7,9
TRI: 6,7 / 4,6,7,9 / 4,6,7,9,10

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Belmont Park
R3: #1 Candour 8-1
R4: #7 Mr. Charles 10-1
R6: #1 My Man Al 12-1
R7: #4 African Fighter 8-1
R9: #3 Sheyn Vi Di Levone 8-1

Good luck today!

[StarDust Bum]

Friday's Tip Sheet

September 18, 2015


Miami Marlins at Washington Nationals | 7:05 p.m. ET

For those who enjoy a real quality pitcher’s duel, you may want to tune into the action that’s on tap from Nationals Park this evening. Not only is it a meaningful game -- as is every Nationals contest the rest of the way while they try to inch closer to the Mets in the NL East -- but you’ll also be able to enjoy the fabulous work of two perennial NL Cy Young candidates. Nationals ace Max Scherzer (12-11, 2.91 ERA) certainly looked like he was the frontrunner for such honors throughout the first half of the year, in which he was 10-7 with a shiny 2.11 ERA and 0.78 WHIP, while compiling an outstanding 150/14 K/BB ratio in 132 innings of work. In the second half, though? He’s dropped off significantly, being just 2-4 over 11 starts with a 4.50 ERA and 1.29 WHIP. At the same time, Scherzer is coming off his best start of the second half, when he blanked the Marlins over eight terrific innings. The linesmakers might sense him returning to form and have tagged him with -150 odds despite his counterpart in the opener.

In turn, Marlins ace Jose Fernandez (5-0, 2.06 ERA) has some pretty tempting +130 underdog odds, which might be the biggest odds he ever draws, given his standing as one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers. It’s also intriguing considering Fernandez just kept the Nats off the scoreboard in his most recent outing last weekend, which also marked his return from his second stint on the disabled list. However, that also came at home Marlins Park, where the 23-year-old phenom has posted some pretty legendary numbers (16-0, 1.11 ERA, 0.87 WHIP in 25 home starts) throughout his still-young big-league career. On the road, in 19 career starts, Fernandez is just 5-8 with a 3.86 ERA and 1.13 WHIP. Plus, it’s unknown how long he’ll be allowed to pitch, after he was prematurely taken out in last Saturday night’s start. Regardless, the over/under is 6.5.

Kansas City Royals at Detroit Tigers | 7:05 p.m. ET

When the 2015 Major League Baseball schedule was released, many people figured that this late-season series between the division rival Royals and Tigers would be one of the more important ones on this second-to-last weekend of the campaign. Due to Detroit’s surprising fall, after entering the year with five consecutive AL Central division titles, that’s certainly not the case, although this series opener will be of great importance to Royals fans considering their major trade deadline acquisition Johnny Cueto (9-12, 3.47 ERA) is slated to take the hill, seeking to get back on track.

Over the past few seasons during his time with the Reds, Cueto has undoubtedly been one of the best pitchers in the game, even coming close to an NL Cy Young a year ago, but after an encouraging beginning to his stint with the Royals, Johnny Beisbol has struggled mightily. In fact, since going 2-1 with a 1.80 ERA in his first four starts with the club, Cueto has lost his last five assignments, while posting a 9.57 ERA and allowing eight home runs, including a career-high four his last time out. Fortunately for the former Cincinnati ace, he’s facing a very familiar opponent whom he’s had success against, as he’s faced the Tigers more than any other team in ’15. In four starts opposite Detroit, Cueto has registered a 2.96 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and .208 opposing batting average across 27.1 innings. Even so, he carries the standard -110 odds in this one on the road.

Concerning his counterpart’s fall from grace over the past few weeks, Justin Verlander (3-8, 3.58 ERA) probably knows that feeling all too well. At one point a few years ago, Verlander was widely considered to be the best pitcher in all of baseball, but has regressed since then due to decreased velocity and injuries. Nonetheless, Verlander has exhibited that he can still be that dominant pitcher he once was, such as in August, when he put together a 1.50 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and .177 opposing batting average in five starts during the month, spanning 36 total innings. Verlander has somewhat carried that success over into September, in which he’s recorded two quality starts in three tries, which is why he’s getting respect from the linesmakers in attaining even odds. The over/under, meanwhile, is 8.5.

New York Yankees at New York Mets | 7:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network)

It’s been a breakthrough campaign for both New York baseball franchises this season, as the Yankees appear poised to make the playoffs for the first time since 2012, while the Mets are well on pace towards wrapping up their first postseason berth in almost a decade. As a result, this looks to be one of the most compelling Subway Series matchups since it was regularly installed during the regular season nearly 20 years ago.

It is the Yankees, though, who still have more to accomplish, being 3.5 games back of the first-place Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East. Masahiro Tanaka (12-6, 3.40 ERA), arguably their best big-game pitcher, gets the ball in game one of this three-game set, looking to help Bronx Bombers gain some needed ground in the division. After an injury in May almost derailed his season, Tanaka has settled in very nicely while contributing his best work as of late. Over his last two starts, the 26-year-old right-hander has surrendered just a single run across 15 innings pitched, while compiling a terrific 17/1 K/BB ratio. Overall, he’s recorded seven quality starts in his last eight tries, and thus, he’s a -115 road favorite against the club’s crosstown rivals.

While the Yankees still have a lot of heavy lifting to do down the stretch, the Mets can mostly relax in the season’s final two weeks-and-change, owning an impressive eight-game lead over the Washington Nationals for first-place in the NL East. At the same time, they’ll want to avenge losing the first Subway Series of the year back in April, and have rookie Steven Matz (3-0, 1.88 ERA) to kick things off. Despite being limited to just four starts on the year, the 24-year-old southpaw has been nothing short of fabulous in his first taste of big league action, having allowed two runs or less in each of his assignments. He’s made two starts since returning from injury in the beginning of the month and has continued to shine, having surrendered only three combined runs across 10.1 innings. Interestingly, this will be Matz’ first time toeing the rubber at Citi Field since his Major League debut on June 28. Unsurprisingly, the over/under is 7.

Pittsburgh Pirates at Los Angeles Dodgers | 10:10 p.m. ET

On a three-game losing streak entering their weekend series at Chavez Ravine, the Pirates can almost forget about their chances of catching the first-place St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central, and instead focus on staving off the fellow division rival Cubs for the top Wild Card berth, which would reward them with home-field advantage in the NL Wild Card Game.

It will be a tough task taking game one, however, considering they must deal with NL Cy Young hopeful Zack Greinke (17-3, 1.61 ERA), who continues to be on a roll. He enters tonight’s assignment having registered seven consecutive quality starts, and he’s a good bet to extend that streak at least one more, considering he’ll be working from the friendly confines of Dodger Stadium this evening. Overall, Greinke has been even better at home during his marvelous 2015 campaign, being 8-1 in 15 starts with a 1.41 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, and .190 opposing batting average. In his past 12 home starts, he's allowed two runs or less, hence why he’s a heavy -210 favorite despite Pittsburgh’s standing as a legitimate contender.

The Pirates will counter with left-hander Jeff Locke (8-10, 4.43 ERA), whose split stats on the road don’t offer much optimism when matched up against Greinke’s amazing mastery at Dodger Stadium. Specifically, Locke is 4-6 in 13 starts away from PNC Park with an unpleasant 5.69 ERA and 1.59 WHIP, while opponents have hit .295 off the southpaw when pitching on the road. The mercurial Locke may need a quality outing here if he wants to solidify a position on the postseason pitching staff. The linesmakers have predictably set the over/under at 6.5, and it’s worth noting that the over is 8-1-1 in Locke’s last 10 starts.

[StarDust Bum]

Brewers' Nelson takes liner to head

September 17, 2015

MILWAUKEE (AP) Brewers starter Jimmy Nelson was hit on the back of the head by a line drive off the bat of Tommy Pham in the third inning of Milwaukee's game against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday night.

The team said Nelson was lucid and was taken to an undisclosed hospital for a CT scan.

Tommy Pham hit an 89 mph slider that ricocheted off Nelson and down the left-field line.

Nelson fell to the ground face down and remained prone for about a minute after the ball struck him on the right side of the back of his head. Nelson then rose to his knees before standing on his own and walking off the field while Pham watched with a look of anguish.

Trainer Dan Wright accompanied Nelson to the clubhouse.

Nelson was removed from the game with the Cardinals leading 3-0 and was replaced by David Goforth.

[StarDust Bum]

RECAPPING THURSDAY'S ACTION:

MLB: 3 - 3 - 0

WNBA: 2 - 1 - 1

CFL: 0 - 0

CFB: 1 - 1 - 0

NFL: 0 - 2 - 0


WNBA JUNE/ JULY / AUGUST / SEPTEMBER :

*****...............................35 - 27 - 2
DOUBLE PLAY....................66 - 53 - 1
TRIPLE PLAY......................34 - 26
SLAM DUNK.......................38 - 32

MLB RECORD FOR JUNE/JULY/AUGUST/SEPTEMBER :

*****.............................135 - 156 - 1 .....................,........- 11.90
double play......................221 - 236 - 4 ..............................- 23.80
triple play........................116 - 119 - 2 ............................. - 70.92
grand slam......................116 - 110 - 4...................,.,.........- 36.36
double grand slam.............29 - 27...................................... - 10.07
underdog of the year.........0 - 1...........................................- 8.00


CFL JUNE/JULY/ AUGUST/SEPTEMBER RECORD:

SINGLE PLAY.................................35 - 26
DOUBLE PLAY................................12 - 15
TRIPLE PLAY..................................17 - 8
BLOW OUT.....................................4 - 3

[StarDust Bum]

MLB betting cheat sheet: Battle of the bottom feeders

Here's a comprehensive look at betting notes for the weekend major-league schedule:

Houston.. We Have a Problem!

The Astros are now 2.5 games out of first place after losing four straight to the Rangers in Texas. The good news is that they are still 1.5 games ahead of the Twins for the final Wild Card spot, and they play their next nine games at home at Minute Maid Park. Houston will host the last-place A's in a three-game series over the weekend, and the odds are in their favor. The Astros have been a good bet at home, going 40-15 in their last 55 games in Houston.

Capital PunishmentCapital

The Nationals have fallen apart in the second half of the season, while the Marlins are enjoying their role as spoiler. Miami has won 12 of it's last 16 overall, including taking 2-of-3 in a home series versus Washington last week. After upsetting the Nats in the series opener on Thursday, they will finish out a four-game set at Nationals Park over the weekend. Jose Fernandez will get the nod for the Fish on Friday, and he's 2-0 with an 0.82 ERA against the Nats this season.

Battle of the Bottom Feeders

Things have gotten ugly in Atlanta, as the Braves have not been at all competitive in the second half of the season. They've really struggled at home, losing 14 of their last 15 at Turner Field. They host Philadelphia this weekend, and the Phillies have lost 11 of their last 14 overall. The Phillies hand the ball to rookie Adam Morgan in Game 1, and he's 0-2 with a 4.50 ERA against Atlanta.

Hitting Notes

* The Boston Red Sox lead the major leagues batting .288 in day games in 2015, and they will play matinees at Toronto on Saturday and Sunday. Boston has won three of it's last four versus Toronto, scoring in double digits in all three wins.

* Nobody has been swinging a hotter bat than Joey Votto in the second half of the season. Votto is batting .374 with a dozen home runs and 31 RBIs since the All Star break.

Pitching Notes

* Jake Arrieta failed to record his 20th win of the season despite tossing a gem at Pittsburgh his last time out. Arrieta went eight innings, allowing one earned run and striking out five, but the Cubs needed extra-innings to get by the Pirates and Jake got the no-decision. He'll get another chance on Tuesday against the Brewers.

* Cole Hamels is enjoying a six game unbeaten streak, and he's set to make his next start at home against Seattle on Saturday. He's 4-1 with a 3.99 ERA in his last 10 starts.

Totals Streak

* The Detroit Tigers will host the Royals at Comerica Park over the weekend, and these teams have pushed the total over the number in each of the last four head to head meetings. Detroit has been one of the best bets to go over all season long, and the over is 6-2-1 in the Tigers last nine overall.

Injury Notes

* Pirates SS Jung Ho Kang suffered a gruesome injury when Chris Coghlan came in for a hard slide at second base in yesterday's game. He's out for the season with a torn MCL and a broken fibula.

* Joe Kelly will miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury, and he had been pitching well for the Red Sox. He was 8-1 with a 3.77 ERA in his last 11 starts.

Umpire Notes

* The Under has gone 7-1 in the last eight ball games that umpire Chris Conroy has worked behind home plate. He'll be calling balls and strikes in Washington when the Marlins visit the Nats Friday.

Weather Notes

* Wind will be blowing in from right field at roughly 11 miles per hour at Rangers Ballpark when the Texas Rangers host the Seattle Mariners Friday evening.

* It could also be windy in Cleveland Saturday as forecasts predict winds of up to 18 miles per hour blowing in from left field when the Indians host the Chicago White Sox.

[StarDust Bum]

Under wagers in hot with Conroy behind home plate

The Under has gone 7-1 in the last eight ball games that umpire Chris Conroy has worked behind home plate. Conroy is scheduled to call balls and strikes in Washington when the Nationals host the Miami Marlins Friday evening.

Season to date, Conroy has worked home plate in 25 games with the under holding the slight edge at 11-13 O/U. There has been an average of 7.92 runs scored per game when he works home plate.

Jose Fernandez and Max Scherzer are probable to start for the Marlins and Nats respectively. The total is currently pegged at 6.5.