Sunday Trends and Indexes 09/16

[pm530]

Trends and Indexes
Sunday, September 16

Good Luck on day #259 of 2007!

NOTE:
As information becomes available, we will attempt to post the trends and indexes as soon as possible.
Information is posted from what we believe are reliable sources.

[pm530]

Sunday's List of 13: Wrapping up college football Saturday

13) Friday night, Troy beat Oklahoma State 41-23; it was 34-10 at one point. This loss will hurt winner of Texas-Oklahoma as much as it hurts the Cowboys, when the BCS stuff starts. Sun Belt teams had been 0-13 in non-conference games.

12) Oklahoma State has a booster named T. Boone Pickens, who has given school around $200M the last few years. Can you just see this guy after the game? "I didn't give the sports program $200 freaking million so we could lose to Troy State" Whoops.

11) Iowa State started 0-2, losing to Kent and I-AA team, but redeemed itself by nipping Iowa 15-13, on last-second FG, for the first win in the Gene Chizik era.

10) Demetrius Jones, who started at QB for Notre Dame in the opener two weeks ago, has transferred and enrolled at a new school, Northern Illinois, where he will be eligible to play next season. That whole thing played out pretty quickly.

9) If you played the under in the Ohio State-Washington tilt, my condolences, as Huskies called timeout in last :20, when it was 27-14 and Ohio State had the ball. Why? Buckeyes ran a final play, and kid ran for TD, putting game over the total.

8) Mississippi State beat Auburn 19-14, but Tigers found new QB in Kodi Burns, who replaced Cox and gives them running threat. It was 10-0 when he went into games. Terrific win for Sylvester Croom and the Bulldogs.

7) Biggest upset of the day: Duke (+16.5) getting its first win, ending 0-22 skid, surviving late Northwestern rally, 20-14.

6) Weren't many folks in Carrier Dome, as Illinois just blasted Syracuse and their awful orange uniforms, 41-20. Not a lot of happy thoughts going on in central New York right now.

5) Air Force is already 3-0, having upset Utah, TCU in the last week, so the Air Force-Navy game looms big this season, as far as the Commander-in-Chief trophy goes.

4) Hell of a ballgame to open Central Florida's new stadium in Orlando, as Texas visited UCF and escaped with 35-32 win, in game they trailed in fourth quarter. George O'Leary has UCF on the right track to be a Boise State-type mid-major program.

3) Some drama late Saturday, as Kentucky scored TD at 0:39 of fourth quarter to beat Louisville 40-34, and Alabama ralled to win 41-38, after blowing 31-10 lead late in third quarter.

2) BYU scored 47 points and lost. Florida State scored 16 and won. College football is a funny game..........by the way, Navy last beat Notre Dame when Roger Staubach played for Navy. This could be the season that long streak comes to an end.

1) Given the choice in a secret ballot right now, who do you think the powers-that-be at Notre Dame would like to have as their coach: Charlie Weis, Ty Willingham or Geoege O'Leary?

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[pm530]

Six-pack for Sunday

More NFL trends for Week 2

-- Browns are 3-9-1 vs spread as a home underdog.

-- Carolina is 7-17-1 vs spread as home fave of 3+ points.

-- Colts covered one of last six as a home favorite.

-- Jaguars are 17-6 at home vs NFC teams.

-- Chiefs are 4-13-1 vs spread on road vs NFC teams.

-- Jets covered three of twelve in non-division road tilts.


(Yesterday’s “Six-pack” is repeated here.)

Six-pack for Saturday

NFL trends for Week 2

-- Saints are 19-3-1 vs spread in division road games.

-- Denver is 3-10-1 as division favorite of 7+ points.

-- Minnesota is 8-2 as road dog in division games.

-- Rams are 0-8 as home favorite in division games.

-- Buccaneers are 14-4-1 as a home underdog.

-- Titans covered six of last seven as home underdog.

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[pm530]

National Football League - Dunkel Index

NFL
Dunkel Index


San Diego at New England
The Chargers certainly have revenge on their minds after they blew an eight-point fourth quarter lead against the Patriots in last year's playoffs en route to a 24-21 loss that cost Marty Schottenheimer his job. Tempers flared at the end of the game when LaDanian Tomlinson took exception to some of the Patriots dancing at midfield. LT blamed the lack of "class" on coach Bill Belichick, who is now under new allegations of spying on the Jets in last week's game. But while controversy may swirl around the Pats, they just keep on playing solid, winning football. Against New York, the Patriots unveiled a passing attack that saw Randy Moss pay immediate dividends (9 catches for 183 yards and a 51-yard TD). They also set a record on special teams when Ellis Hobbs returned the second-half kick-off 108 yards. The last time these two teams met in Foxborough (2005), the Chargers rolled to a 41-17 win, so the Patriots need little reminder how dangerous San Diego can be. But New England is a perfect 6-0 in home openers at Gillette Stadium and looks like a good pick to cover the line (-3 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Patriots favored by 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: New England (-3 1/2). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Game 201-202: Buffalo at Pittsburgh
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 131.330; Pittsburgh 134.948
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 3 1/2; 34
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 10; 37
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (+10); Under

Game 203-204: Cincinnati at Cleveland
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati 131.886; Cleveland 125.830
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 6; 44
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 7 1/2; 41
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+7 1/2); Over

Game 205-206: Indianapolis at Tennessee
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 135.270; Tennessee 130.732
Dunkel Line: Indianapolis by 4 1/2; 41
Vegas Line: Indianapolis by 7 1/2; 46
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (+7 1/2); Under

Game 207-208: Houston at Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 130.131; Carolina 133.440
Dunkel Line: Carolina by 3; 35
Vegas Line: Carolina by 7; 39
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+7); Under

Game 209-210: San Francisco at St. Louis
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 124.721; St. Louis 125.030
Dunkel Line: Even; 41
Vegas Line: St. Louis by 3 1/2; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (+3 1/2); Under

Game 211-212: Green Bay at NY Giants
Dunkel Ratings: Green Bay 127.756; NY Giants 132.295
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 4 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 1; 37
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+1); Over

Game 213-214: Atlanta at Jacksonville
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 120.972; Jacksonville 138.190
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville by 17; 32
Vegas Line: Jacksonville by 10; 35
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (-10); Under

Game 215-216: New Orleans at Tampa Bay
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 129.319; Tampa Bay 123.239
Dunkel Line: New Orleans by 6; 37
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 3; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (-3); Under

Game 217-218: Minnesota at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 128.845; Detroit 127.746
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 1; 40
Vegas Line: Detroit by 3; 42 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+3); Under

Game 219-220: Dallas at Miami
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 132.293; Miami 131.260
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 1; 45
Vegas Line: Dallas by 3 1/2; 40
Dunkel Pick: Miami (+3 1/2); Over

Game 221-222: Seattle at Arizona
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 126.810; Arizona 127.960
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 1; 39
Vegas Line: Seattle by 3; 43
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (+3); Under

Game 223-224: NY Jets at Baltimore
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 129.511; Baltimore 134.851
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 5; 40
Vegas Line: Baltimore by 11; 33 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Jets (+11); Over

Game 225-226: Oakland at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 116.291; Denver 134.029
Dunkel Line: Denver by 18; 44
Vegas Line: Denver by 10; 38 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Denver (-10); Over

Game 227-228: Kansas City at Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 125.619; Chicago 137.347
Dunkel Line: Chicago by 12; 30
Vegas Line: Chicago by 13; 35
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+13); Under

Game 229-230: San Diego at New England
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego 136.072; New England 144.766
Dunkel Line: New England by 8 1/2; 43
Vegas Line: New England by 3 1/2; 47
Dunkel Pick: New England (-3 1/2); Under


MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Game 231-232: Washington at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 124.184; Philadelphia 135.681
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 11 1/2; 36
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 6 1/2; 39
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-6 1/2); Under

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[pm530]

National Football League – Long Sheet

NFL
Long Sheet


Week 2

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Sunday, September 16

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BUFFALO (0 - 1) at PITTSBURGH (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 66-41 ATS (+20.9 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.

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


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CINCINNATI (1 - 0) at CLEVELAND (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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INDIANAPOLIS (1 - 0) at TENNESSEE (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

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


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HOUSTON (1 - 0) at CAROLINA (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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SAN FRANCISCO (1 - 0) at ST LOUIS (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 4-0 against the spread versus ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
SAN FRANCISCO is 3-1 straight up against ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons


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GREEN BAY (1 - 0) at NY GIANTS (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) in road games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

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


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ATLANTA (0 - 1) at JACKSONVILLE (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1992.

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


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NEW ORLEANS (0 - 1) at TAMPA BAY (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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MINNESOTA (1 - 0) at DETROIT (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 31-49 ATS (-22.9 Units) as a favorite since 1992.

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


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DALLAS (1 - 0) at MIAMI (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 4:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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SEATTLE (1 - 0) at ARIZONA (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 4:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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NY JETS (0 - 1) at BALTIMORE (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 4:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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OAKLAND (0 - 1) at DENVER (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 2-2 against the spread versus OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 4-0 straight up against OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons


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KANSAS CITY (0 - 1) at CHICAGO (0 - 1) - 9/16/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) against AFC West division opponents since 1992.

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


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SAN DIEGO (1 - 0) at NEW ENGLAND (1 - 0) - 9/16/2007, 8:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 34-15 ATS (+17.5 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 2-12 ATS (-11.2 Units) in a home game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 points since 1992.

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


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Monday, September 17

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WASHINGTON (1 - 0) at PHILADELPHIA (0 - 1) - 9/17/2007, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 42-65 ATS (-29.5 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.
PHILADELPHIA is 113-78 ATS (+27.2 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 25-10 ATS (+14.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.

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


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[pm530]

National Football League - Short Sheet

NFL
Short Sheet

Week 2

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Sunday, September 16th

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Buffalo at Pittsburgh, 1:00 ET
Buffalo: 7-3 ATS off a loss by 6 points or less
Pittsburgh: 14-1 Over as a home favorite

Cincinnati at Cleveland, 1:00 ET
Cincinnati: 8-4 Under vs. Cleveland
Cleveland: 5-1 ATS off a loss by 14+ points

Indianapolis at Tennessee, 1:00 ET
Indianapolis: 6-1 Under in September
Tennessee: 11-3 ATS as an underdog

Houston at Carolina, 1:00 ET
Houston: 2-11 ATS off a home win
Carolina: 17-6 Under first two weeks of the season

San Francisco at St. Louis, 1:00 ET
San Francisco: 20-8 ATS vs. St. Louis
St. Louis: 5-1 Over off a loss as a home favorite

Green Bay at NY Giants, 1:00 ET
Green Bay: 1-5 ATS off a home win
NY Giants: 10-2 ATS after scoring 35+ points

Atlanta at Jacksonville, 1:00 ET
Atlanta: 8-1 Under in road games
Jacksonville: 17-6 ATS at home vs. non-conference opponents

New Orleans at Tampa Bay, 1:00 ET
New Orleans: 3-7 ATS off a combined score of 50+ points
Tampa Bay: 6-1 Under in September

Minnesota at Detroit, 4:05 ET
Minnesota: 16-9 ATS vs. conference opponents
Detroit: 8-1 Over off a road win by 10+ points

Dallas at Miami, 4:05 ET
Dallas: 17-7 ATS after allowing 35+ points
Miami: 4-12 ATS off a road game

Seattle at Arizona, 4:05 ET
Seattle: 12-4 Over off a home win
Arizona: 10-4 Over in dome stadiums

NY Jets at Baltimore, 4:15 ET
NY Jets: 5-1 Over off a division loss
Baltimore: 5-0 ATS vs. NY Jets

Oakland at Denver, 4:15 ET
Oakland: 4-13 ATS off a home loss by 10+ points
Denver: 6-1 Under in September

Kansas City at Chicago, 4:15 ET
Kansas City: 6-0 Under in September
Chicago: 13-3 ATS vs. AFC West opponents

San Diego at New England, 8:15 ET NBC
San Diego: 34-15 ATS playing on artificial turf
New England: 1-5 ATS as a home favorite of 7 points or less

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Monday, September 17th

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Washington at Philadelphia, 8:30 ET ESPN
Washington: 25-10 ATS as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points
Philadelphia: 8-2 Under as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points

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[pm530]

National Football League – Write up

NFL
Write-up

Sunday, September 16

Bills (0-1) @ Steelers (1-0) -- Pittsburgh was dominant in Week 1 win, with 27-yard edge in average field position, 206-46 rushing advantage and +4 turnover ratio, but Bills better than Cleveland. Steelers won six of last seven series games; this is Bills' 1st visit here since '96. Bills were outgained 470-184 by Denver, but they did get punt return TD that put 'em ahead early, so they tried to sit on lead a little. Buffalo seems to be getting good news about health of their player who injured his neck last week- thats good. Last five Steeler home openers went over the total.

Bengals (1-0) @ Browns (0-1) -- Short week and short travel for a Bengal team that ran ball for only 55 yards vs Ravens Monday; beware teams that win with 3+ turnovers (Bengals had four), but Browns traded their starting QB Monday, so assume Anderson gets start here, vs Cincy club they've beaten five times in row by average score of 34-20. Has to be at least a little chaotic for the home side, as fans want Quinn to play, but he can't be ready due to his holdout. LY, Bengals outscored Browns 34-3 in first half of their two meetings, converted 15 of 29 third down plays.

Colts (1-0) @ Titans (1-0) —Indy won seven of last eight series games, though LY’s tilts were decided by total of four (14-13I/20-17T) points; Titans controlled ball in both games, running for 423 yards, and after 282 rushing yards in win at Jacksonville, you know they’ll try to do same thing here. Colts ran ball for 164 yards, averaged 9.6 yards/pass attempt LW vs Saints, outscored NO 31-0 in second half. Titans covered last four tries as dog in their home opener; Colts are 6-1-1 vs. spread in last eight road openers- under is 12-5 in their last 17 road openers. Neither team allowed a point in second half last week.

Texans (1-0) @ Panthers (1-0) — David Carr was dumped by Texans in offseason, now is Carolina backup QB; Houston won first game without him, holding Chiefs to 219 yards, even though KC converted on nine of 13 third down plays. Texans had 13-yard edge in field position, had four takeaways, scored TD on defense, but they’ve lost last three road openers by 12-15-19 points, and are 1-4 vs. spread in last five road openers. Carolina scored just 13.3 pg in losing last three home openers; they’re 2-8 in last ten, and they’re 0-4 in home openers that weren’t in Week 1. Panthers ran ball for 186 yards LW, outgaining Rams 387-238. Texans won only previous meeting, 13-10 at home in ’03.

49ers (1-0) @ Rams (0-1) —Injuries to OT Pace and his backup Steussie leave Rams dangerously thin at tackle, a critical position; home side won nine of last eleven games in this rivalry, with Niners 1-7 in last eight visits to this site (five of seven losses by 10+ pts). 49ers gave up 33.3 pg in losing last four road openers; they’re traveling here on short week, after dramatic cut sloppy win in opener, where they were outrushed by 161-92, completed less than half their passes (15-31) but found a way to win at the end. Rams were outgained by 149 yards by Carolina and didn’t have one play gain 20+ yards (there were 61 overall in league last week).

Packers (1-0) @ Giants (0-1) —Health of QB Manning key issue for Giant club whose defense was riddled by Romo LW (23 yds/ completion); offense may have to outscore teams to win, going to inexperienced Lorenzen at QB not good for Coughlin’s shaky job security. Dallas gained 478 yards LW, had eight plays of 20+ yards, scoring six TDs on 11 drives. Pack defense is better than Cowboys’; they held Eagles 283 yards, and McNabb was just 15-33 passing. Pack offense struggled though, running for just 46 yards; they were only home team LW that didn’t score a TD on offense. Eight of ten Packer first downs were earned on third down plays. Manning had played one of his best games before coming out late with bruised shoulder.

Falcons (0-1) @ Jaguars (0-1) — Anytime pair of 0-1 teams meet, stakes are high, since 0-2 NFL clubs seldom make postseason. Harrington had rough Falcon debut, as Vikings scored pair of defensive TDs, including INT for TD with game 0-0, but he was given lousy field position throughout day; five of nine Atlanta drives started 80+ yards from paydirt- their average start point was 19-yard line, worst in NFL LW. Jaguars allowed ridiculously high 282 rushing yards (5.8/carry) in loss to Titans- they ran ball for only 72 yards themselves and were outgained by 78 yards. Falcons were one of six teams not to score offensive TD LW; they never even got inside Minnesota red zone.

Saints (0-1) @ Bucs (0-1) — New Orleans won four of last five visits to this site; they swept Bucs LY (24-21/31-14), outsacking Bucs 6-0 in two games, and holding Tampa to 9-27 on third down. Bucs went 3/out on 11 of 24 drives vs. Saints LY, but NO defense gave up 452 yards in opener at Indy, 164 on ground, while Saints’ only TD came on defense score in second quarter. Bucs had 13-yard disadvantage in field position LW; six of their ten drives started 80+ yards from goal line. Bucs lost four of last five home openers, scoring 8.5 pg in last four—under is 12-3 in their last fifteen home openers. Saints had three extra days to prepare, after playing in Thursday night season opener.

Vikings (1-0) @ Lions (1-0) — Minnesota won last ten series tilts, , winning last five in Motown by 2-10-1-5-10 points; last year, they outrushed Lions 307-13, converted 56.3% of third down plays, forced 10 turnovers, held Detroit to 7-22 on third down. Vikings, though, are 2-4 in last six road openers, scoring 14.3 pg in last three. Lions covered nine of last eleven home openers. Last wk, they had 17-0 lead, blew it, but then scored game’s last 16 points in 36-21 win- three of their four TD drives started in Oakland territory. Vikings had six sacks, cored two defensive TDs LW; they won 56% of third down plays, but never took snap inside Falcon red zone, scoring only offensive TD on long run after short pass to rookie Peterson.

Cowboys (1-0) @ Dolphins (0-1) — Dallas averaged 23 yards/ completion LW (15-24/327) but also gave up 438 yards to Giant club that lacks great runner and is largely one-dimensional. Cowboys lost five of last seven road openers, Miami lost three of last four home openers. Miami was outgained 400-273 last week vs. Redskins, running for only 66 yards- they were one of only three teams that had an edge in field position last week but lost. Dallas had eight plays of 20+ yards LW, most in NFL, but their opponent had five, the second-most in league. Under is 11-4 in Miami’s last fifteen home openers, but nine of last ten Dallas road openers went over, with average total in their last four, 52.4.

Seahawks (1-0) @ Cardinals (0-1) — Arizona on short week, hosting NFC West kingpin that had five sacks and +13 yard edge in field position in 20-6 home win last week. Home side won six of last seven series games, with four of last five series totals 45+; Seattle won three of last four road openers, allowing seven or less points in four of last six road debuts. Seahawks lost two of last three visits here, with average total in three games, 47.3. Arizona had 20 penalties for 143 yards in two games vs. Seattle LY, 10 more for 71 yards in sloppy loss Monday night, when falling on a loose ball in end zone in last 2:00 could have given Cardinals much-needed road win. Arizona also lost their center Monday night.

Jets (0-1) @ Ravens (0-1) — Health of Pennington key media point this week, but Oregon alum Clemens more than capable if prepared, though Raven defense would be tough one to break in against, even with Lewis hampered by tricep injury. Favorite covered Baltimore’s last six home openers, with Ravens 4-0 as favorite in first home game of year; they’re 5-2 in last seven home openers, overall. Ravens won last four games vs. Jets by average score of 23-13- only one of the four came by less than ten points. Lot of distractions for Jets this week, since many think Mangini turned Pats into league office for video piracy of Jets’ coaching signals. Short week for Baltimore, after loss Monday night.

Chiefs (0-1) @ Bears (0-1) — Struggling KC offense (219 total yards, 72 rushing; four turnovers, no TDs at Houston) not likely to find its way vs. brutal Bear defense that shut Chargers out for half last week. Now, also tough to lay double-digit spread with Grossman-led offense that scored three points LW, running ball for 80 yards, turning itl over four times, completing just 12 of 23 passes, but you figure Chicago is good for defensive score, even with star safety Brown now out for year. Schaub was 16-22/187 passing vs. Chiefs LW, but Houston converted just 3-11 on third down, as Chief defense kept team in game until offense totally unraveled. Four of Chicago’s last five home openers went over the total.

Raiders (0-1) @ Broncos (0-1) — Shanahan despises Al Davis over $250,000 he got stiffed out of after Davis fired him; Broncos won seven of last eight series games, with six of seven wins by 10+ points; last year’s wins were 13-3/17-13 games, with total yardage almost exactly even. Five of last seven series totals were 34 or less. Raiders lost last four road openers, by 5-3-10-22 pts; seven of their last eight road openers went over total, but four of Denver’s last five home openers stayed under. Broncos won last seven home openers (6-1 vs. spread). Oakland showed spunk LW, rallying from 17-0 down to take lead in 4th quarter; new QB McCown was 30-40/253 passing, so Raiders have passing game, nd therefore, backdoor capability.

Chargers (1-0) @ Patriots (1-0) — Patriots stunned Chargers in playoffs LY, as Bolts lost three fumbles, completed just 14-32 passes, but now SD has new coaches, same players, and revenge on their mind. NE won 11 of last 13 series games, seven of last eight at this site, but Chargers did win here 41-17 in ’05. Pats won last five home openers, by 16-7-3-10-2 points; they’re 5-2-1 vs. spread as favorite in home opener. No idea if VideoGate is distraction in Foxboro, but hard to buck Belichick/Brady in these big games, and this is a big game, especially for Chargers, who didn’t score in first half vs. Bears last week, while Patriots were drilling division rival Jets in Swamp.

Monday, September 17

Redskins (1-0) @ Eagles (0-1) — Hopefully Philly found someone who can catch a punt; they’ve won nine of last 11 vs. Redskins, taking four of last five here, with wins by 13-2-22-24 points. Last year, Iggles won 27-3/21-19, outscoring Skins by combined 38-9 in first half of those games. Washington ran ball for 356 yards vs. Philly LY, but didn’t score TD (four FGs) in four trips to Eagle red zone. Skins lost five of last seven road openers, but are 7-4 as dog in their first road game of season. Philly scored 32.3 pg in last three home openers, with six of last eight going over total. Skins held Miami to 66 rushing yards LW, were one of only three teams that won despite losing field position battle.are 3-2 as home dog, beat Missouri here back in '03.

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[pm530]

National Football League - Tips & Trends

NFL


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Tips and Trends
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Sunday, September 16

Buffalo Bills at Pittsburgh Steelers (CBS | 1 PM ET)

Despite the relatively close 15-14 score last week, Buffalo team insiders are very concerned that Buffalo was out-gained by 470-184 to Denver. However, some team insiders are trying to justify that the poor defensive performance to the fact that the Bills lost three defensive starters in the contest (free safety Ko Simpson; line backer Coy Wire and cornerback Jason Webster). EDGE: STEELERS
The Buffalo secondary was dismantled last weekend to the tune of over 300 passing yards against them. That’s not very good news when you consider that Pittsburgh possesses a strong passing attack behind Big Ben and his deep threats Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Heath Miller. EDGE: STEELERS
Most Buffalo insiders are concerned over the Buffalo rush defense that struggled against the run last season, ranking 28th allowing a whopping 4.7 yards per carry. Last week, Denver rushed for 171 rush yards (5.3 yards per carry), while Pittsburgh managed an impressive 206 yards on the ground against Cleveland, a defense that was better (on paper) than the Bills. EDGE: STEELERS
One Pittsburgh insider is concerned about Ike Taylor, whom he classified as “one of the worst deep coverage cornerbacks in the NFL.” With Buffalo unable to get anything going on offense last week, the Bills could exploit Taylor by passing to the always dangerous Lee Evans frequently. EDGE: BILLS
This week presents an interesting challenge for Buffalo, which will be playing on grass (off-surface for them), minimizing the speed of the team's new linebackers and defensive backs. EDGE: STEELERS
Dating back to last season, Buffalo has covered eight of its last 10 games. EDGE: BILLS
It's hard to say what kind of motivation the Bills will be playing with on Sunday after losing teammate Kevin Everett to a spinal cord injury. They could play very well in honor of Everett or it might have a downward spiral effect for them very early in the season.
Buffalo is 8-3 ATS its last 11 as an underdog.
The Steelers are on a 7-2 SU & 6-2-1 ATS run.


Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns (CBS | 1 PM ET)

Cincinnati is off a short week and will have less time to prepare for this heated rivalry. SLIGHT EDGE: BROWNS
One Cincinnati insider is very concerned about the Bengals defense. Cincinnati ranked 31st in total defense last season and things didn’t get much better on Monday night when the Bengals allowed 314 yards (107 rushing) to an offensively-challenged Baltimore team. EDGE: BROWNS
Cleveland’s secondary allowed four touchdown passes against the Steelers last weekend, which is not very encouraging when you consider that they must now face Carson Palmer, who leads one of the best passing offenses in the league. EDGE: BENGALS
Cleveland’s starting center LeCharles Bentley has been put on the reserve/physically unable to perform list, meaning he will miss at least the first six weeks of the season. His loss further puts in flux an offensive line that is without their starting right tackle Ryan Tucker (suspension). EDGE: BENGALS
The Bengals are 10-6 SU & 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 road games.
Cleveland is 15-24-1 ATS as an underdog.
The Bengals dismantled the Browns 34-17 and 30-0 last season, and they are 5-0 SU & 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.


Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans (CBS | 1 PM ET)

The Colts have the benefit of 3 days of extra rest and preparation time (played last Thursday) for this week’s matchup against Tennessee. EDGE: COLTS
This week presents an interesting challenge for Indianapolis, which will be playing on the soft grass of Tennessee (off-surface for them), which will minimize the speed of heir wide receivers. The Colts are not as dominant on natural grass or on the road as they stand just 5-5 SU & 4-6 ATS in their last 10. EDGE: TITANS
There is no question what Tennessee’s game plan will be for this contest - run the football. Tennessee managed 282 rushing yards against one of the best run stopping units in the NFL last weekend, and now they face one of the league's worst from last season. Tennessee rushed for 214 yards against the Colt’s in the first game last season and 219 yards in their contest in Nashville. EDGE: TITANS
A year ago the Titans went 2-0 ATS against the Colts, losing 14-13 at Indy and winning 20-17 at home. EDGE: TITANS


Houston Texans at Carolina Panthers (CBS | 1 PM ET)

Terrible situational spot for the home favorite Carolina Panthers, who just beat a divisional opponents (St. Louis) and has divisional opponent (Atlanta) on deck. It’s unlikely the Panthers will put much emphasis on this non-divisional opponent that comes to town on a rare high note after beating Kansas City last Sunday. EDGE: TEXANS
Team insiders remain concerned about the Carolina secondary that appears vulnerable with the departure of Mike Minter last season. That could be a problem with the balanced Texans offense under new QB Matt Schaub, who connected on 73% of his pass attempts and showed great chemistry with Andre Johnson (142 yards receiving) and Ahman Green (73 yards on 16 carries for 4.6 yards per carry). EDGE: TEXANS
Team insiders were impressed with the playbook of their new offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson who adding some zone-blocking schemes and more balance. The Carolina players clearly responded to the new offense, and they looked fantastic in Week 1 with 387 yards in a 27-13 win at the Rams, piling up 186 yards rushing and 201 passing. EDGE: PANTHERS
Carolina’s defense was 8th overall last season (15th against the run, 8th against the pass) and the Panthers held Rams RB Steven Jackson to just 58 yards rushing on 18 carries and QB Marc Bulger to 167 passing yards. EDGE: PANTHERS
The Panthers have been a below .500 team each of the past four years as a home favorite during the regular season with an overall mark of 8-17-1 ATS during this span.


San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams (FOX | 1 PM ET)

This is a tough situational spot for San Francisco off a short week after playing on Monday night. The 49ers must now face an opponent who’s bitter after getting blown out at home against Carolina. EDGE: RAMS
Team insiders are extremely concerned about the San Francisco run defense that allowed a whopping 161 yards to Arizona, which is not good news when you consider that they will have to stop elite Rams RB Steven Jackson. EDGE: RAMS
Likewise, St. Louis insiders are concerned about the St. Louis run stopping unit. Although many experts thought the Rams run defense would be better in 2007 (31st ranked against the run last season), Sunday’s numbers suggested otherwise: 186 rushing yards allowed and 4.9 yards a carry. That is a very concerning number especially when you consider that they must try to stop one of the league's best in San Franciso's Frank Gore. EDGE: 49ERS
The 49ers are 10-5 ATS in their last 15 as an underdog and 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings with the Rams.


Green Bay Packers at New York Giants (FOX | 1 PM ET)

Team insiders are very concerned about the status of several New York starters for this week against Green Bay. In Week 1, the Giants lost three key starters in QB Eli Manning, DE Osi Umenyiora and RB Brandon Jacobs, who all suffered injuries that required MRIs. The status of these players is unknown, so make sure to check Pregame's Injury Report for updated info. EDGE: PACKERS
The Giants are 3-6 SU & ATS their last 9 home games.
The Packers are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 on the road.


Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions (FOX | 4:05 ET)

This is a rather surprising line when you consider that Detroit was only favored three times all of last season. The result? Not only did the Lions fail to cover each time, but they also lost all three games straight-up. EDGE: VIKINGS
Team insiders are curious to see how the Minnesota defense handles a wide-open Detroit attack. Unlike Atlanta, which played a very vanilla offense last week, Detroit likes to spread their offense out by using three and four wide receivers in an effort to open up the running game. EDGE: LIONS
League insiders believe that Minnesota could surprise many teams this season. Last year, the Vikings were #1 in the NFL in run defense, allowing 2.84 yards per carry and 62 yards per game. Last week, the Vikings continued their success, holding the Falcons to just 96 yards on the ground on 28 carries. EDGE: VIKINGS
Both meetings between these teams last season went OVER the total, with the Vikings winning 26-17 and 30-20. The OVER is also 4-1 in the last 5 meetings. EDGE: OVER
Detroit is 0-3 SU & ATS in its last three as a favorite.
Minnesota has defeated Detroit 10 straight times.


Dallas Cowboys at Miami Dolphins (FOX | 4:05 ET)

One Dallas insider we spoke to was completely befuddled by the Dallas secondary. Going into the game last Sunday night with New York, Dallas had already encountered some concerns with the cornerback position. Those concerns were realized when the Giants torched the Dallas secondary for 314 yards through the air. EDGE: DOLPHINS
Team insiders are also concerned over the mounting injuries to a Dallas team that had high expectations coming into the season. CB Terence Newman (foot), NT Jason Ferguson (biceps), LB Greg Ellis (heel) and WR Terry Glenn (knee) are all projected to be out this week. However, some Maimi insiders don’t believe that the Dolphins have the type of tall, talented receivers to take advantage. EDGE: DOLPHINS
Miami is 9-23 ATS its last 34 games at home.


Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals (FOX | 4:05 ET)

Arizona team insiders are very optimistic in the direction new head coach Ken Whisenhunt is taking with his Cardinals team. Whisenhunt has put emphasis on this first home game: “We already talked about our first home game against another division opponent… to be at home and have a city be excited and behind us is something that we really would look forward too," said Whisenhunt. EDGE: CARDINALS
Seattle team insiders are keeping a close eye on the weak spot of the Seattle defense - the secondary. Although the Seahawks were impressive (on paper) against offensively-challenged Tampa Bay last weekend (only 6 points allowed), their secondary nevertheless allowed Jeff Garcia and Josh McCown to complete 20 of 31 passes. The concern is exemplified as Arizona’s passing attack is a lot more savvy and dangerous. That game was at home, and Seattle is 9-9 SU, 6-11-1 ATS its last 18 on the road. EDGE: CARDINALS
The OVER is 9-4-1 in Arizona's last 14 games.


New York Jets at Baltimore Ravens (CBS | 4:15 PM ET)

There is some uncertainty as to whether Jets QB Chad Pennington is going to start against the Ravens, or if backup Kellen Clemens will get the nod. If it's Clemens, it's worth noting that the last time a Jets quarterback made his first NFL start (Brooks Bollinger) against the league's #1 defense last season, he was sacked five times and pressured all game in a 13-3 loss. EDGE: RAVENS
This is a tough non-divisional situation sandwich spot for the visiting Jets. New York faced New England in the opening week and hosts Miami next Sunday before heading to Buffalo. This is the team's only non-AFC East game this month. EDGE: RAVENS
Team insiders are already very concerned about the Jets offensive line this season. Their left side is loaded with inexperienced playmakers and with RB Thomas Jones not at 100 percent, the Jets could be in a for a long day in Baltimore. EDGE: RAVENS
League insiders were extremely impressed with Baltimore’s defense in Week 1 against offensive powerhouse Cincinnati. Despite losing the game, the Ravens held Cincinnati to just 236 total yards. Last season, Baltimore was the leagues top defense, recording two shutouts while holding teams to a league-low 12.6 points per game. EDGE: RAVENS
Some Baltimore insiders are concerned with the mounting injuries heading into Week 2. The status of QB Steve McNair (groin), LB Ray Lewis (triceps) and OT Jonathan Ogden (toe) are unknown, although Kyle Boller is expected to start for McNair. EDGE: JETS
The Ravens are 21-7 SU & 18-10 ATS in their last 28 games at home.


Atlanta Falcons at Jacksonville Jaguars (FOX | 1 PM ET)

League insiders are already talking about Jacksonville head coach Jack Del Rio’s future with the program after suffering a stunning 13-10 home loss to Tennessee. Del Rio is well aware of this chatter, so expect a very focused effort this week from Jacksonville. EDGE: JAGUARS
Many team insiders continue to believe that in order for the Jaguars to make any kind of a playoff run, they will have to improve in their pass coverage since their secondary is the weakest point of the defense. This suspect secondary could cause some problems against an Atlanta team that operates a pass happy spread offense. EDGE: FALCONS
Team insiders believe that the 282 yards rushing by Tennessee against this normally stout Jacksonville defense was a deviation of sorts and should fair far better against a very weak and inexperienced Atlanta offense. EDGE: JAGUARS
Jacksonville is 14-9-2 ATS its last 25 home games.


New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (FOX | 1 PM ET)

Team insiders are very concerned with the awful performance of the New Orleans secondary, which was burned for 288 total receiving yards last Thursday night against Indianapolis. Luckily, Tampa does not have the type of offense that can exploit this weakness in the secondary. Tampa scored 10 or less points in eight of 16 games last season and should have trouble running the ball this Sunday. EDGE: SAINTS
New Orleans struggled to generate much offense against the Indianapolis Cover-Two defense, and that’s not good news considering Tampa defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin pretty much wrote the book on the Cover-Two. However, some Saints insiders believe that the New Orleans offense should fair much better this week after already making the adjustments needed following the Colts game. EDGE: SAINTS


Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos (CBS | 4:15 PM ET)

These teams played very close last season as the Raiders lost both matchups against the Broncos by an average of seven points. EDGE: RAIDERS
Oakland has held Denver to an average of only 17.3 points in the past three meetings, but the Raiders were torched last weekend against Detroit. SLIGHT EDGE: RAIDERS
Denver is only 1-10 ATS its last 11 home games & 1-8 ATS in its last 8 overall.
The UNDER is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings & 10-1-2 in Oakland's last 13 road games. The UNDER is also 11-2 in Oakland's last 13 games overall.


Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears (CBS | 4:15 PM ET)

After averaging just eight points in four preseason losses, Kansas City’s offense got 3 points last Sunday and only one play went for more than 20 yards. Team insiders are very concerned about Kansas City RB Larry Johnson, who had just 43 yards on 10 carries, a huge concern going into a matchup with the NFL's top run defense from last season. EDGE: BEARS
Team insiders believe that the Bears will be very motivated for a big win following their 14-3 loss at San Diego. In that contest, the leagues #1 defense was nearly flawless, holding reigning NFL MVP LaDainian Tomlinson to just 25 yards rushing. BIG EDGE: BEARS
Chicago received some bad news after Week 1 when they found out S Mike Brown and DT Dusty Dvoracek were lost for the season with knee injuries. However, the loss of both players should have little impact against a Kansas City team that managed just over 200 yards in Week 1 against one of the league's worst stop units last season. Plus, both players have capable replacements. Danieal Manning started 14 games at free safety a year ago as a rookie, and the Bears traded for DT Darwin Walker before the season for added depth and in hopes that he would eventually become a starter. SLIGHT EDGE: CHIEFS
The Bears have gone 15-4 SU & 12-7 ATS at home the last two seasons.
Kansas City is 9-19 SU & 9-18-1 ATS in their last 28 road games.
The Bears are 21-3 SU & 13-9-2 ATS in their last 24 games as favorites.


San Diego Chargers at New England Patriots (NBC | 8:15 PM ET)

Team insiders are reporting San Diego players and coaches are very eager to exact some revenge from last season's 24-21 home loss to New England last year in the playoffs. Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson was especially upset with the way the Pats celebrated on his home field. EDGE: CHARGERS
Many New England insiders believe that in order for the Patriots to win against San Diego this season, they will have to try to stop reigning NFL MVP Tomlinson, who managed 134 yards at NE in the 2005 meeting and 123 in January's playoff game. That will be a very tall order, especially since LT totaled just 25 yards last week and should be looking to break out with revenge on his mind. EDGE: CHARGERS
One San Diego insider believes that the San Diego secondary is the weakness in this otherwise top notch defensive unit. That weakness can be easily exploited by the incredible collection of Patroit offensive weapons in wide receivers Dante Stallworth, Randy Moss and Wes Welker. EDGE: PATRIOTS
The Pats are only 3-5-1 ATS in their last 9 home games.
The Chargers are an incredible 16-8 SU & 16-6-2 ATS in their last 24 road games.

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[pm530]

NFL

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Game Day Buzz: Week 2 Betting Notes
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Atlanta at Jacksonville

The Jaguars have won two of their three matchups with the Falcons. Atlanta, though, won the last meeting 21-14 at home on Decemeber 28, 2003.

Cincinnati at Cleveland

In a November 26 win at Cleveland, Chad Johnson had seven catches for 123 yards, while Carson Palmer - seeking to go 6-1 against the Browns - completed 25 of 32 passes for 275 yards and three touchdowns.

Houston at Carolina

The Texans won 14-10 at home in their only meeting with the Panthers on Nov.ember 2, 2003. Jake Delhomme, though, has won five of his last seven games against AFC opponents, throwing for 10 touchdowns in those contests.

New Orleans at Tampa Bay

Joey Galloway caught two touchdown passes in the Bucs' most recent victory over New Orleans, a 27-13 home win on January 1, 2006.

Buffalo at Pittsburgh

The Steelers also have a favorable record against the Bills, winning six of seven home meetings and leading the series 10-8 overall. Pittsburgh has won two straight and six of the last seven meetings, taking the most recent matchup 29-24 at Buffalo on January 2, 2005.

The Bills have lost five straight in Pittsburgh, although they haven't played there since Septemeber 19, 1996.

Green Bay at N.Y. Giants

The Giants have not opened a season with consecutive losses since starting 0-3 in 1996.

Green Bay was 5-3 on the road last season, and has won its last two games against the Giants at the Meadowlands.

In the last meeting between these teams on October 3, 2004, the Giants won 14-7 at Lambeau Field. Brett Favre threw for 110 yards, a touchdown and an interception, but was taken out of the game in the third quarter after suffering a concussion on the first drive of the second half.

All-time against New York, Favre is 3-2, throwing for 1,112 yards, seven TDs and four interceptions.

Indianapolis at Tennessee

The Colts have won the last four AFC South titles, but December's loss to Tennessee snapped a 12-game winning streak against division opponents.

San Francisco at St. Louis

Frank Gore has four touchdowns in his last three games against St. Louis and rushed for 261 yards in two meetings last season.

San Francisco, which went 3-5 on the road last season, plays at Pittsburgh next week, then faces four straight 2006 playoff teams. After Sunday, St. Louis plays four of its next five on the road.

Dallas at Miami

Trent Green, who began his career with Dallas' NFC East rival Washington, has lost all three of his starts versus the Cowboys despite posting a respectable 83.5 passer rating in those games.

The Dolphins have won seven of 10 regular-season meetings with the Cowboys, including a 40-21 victory at Texas Stadium on Thanksgiving Day in 2003 - the most recent meeting. The Cowboys, though, won 29-10 in their last visit to Miami on October 27, 1996.

Minnesota at Detroit

Minnesota, which led the NFL in rush defense last season, held Atlanta to 96 yards on the ground, the 14th time in the last 15 games it has held an opponent under 100 yards rushing.

Detroit went 2-6 at home last season while Minnesota was 3-5 on the road. The Vikings are 5-0 at Ford Field.

Seattle at Arizona

The Seahawks are looking for their fourth 2-0 start in five years, while the Cardinals are hoping to avoid opening 0-2 for the fourth time in the last five seasons. Arizona won its season opener last season before dropping its next eight games.

N.Y. Jets at Baltimore

The Ravens went 7-1 at home last year, allowing an average of 12.0 points in those games.

Kansas City at Chicago

Kansas City lost its last trip to Soldier Field, 20-17 on September 12, 1999. The Chiefs are 4-5 all-time versus Chicago.

The Bears are trying to win their third consecutive home opener.

Oakland at Denver

Denver has won its last seven home openers since a 38-21 loss to Miami on September 13, 1999. The Broncos have won four straight over the Raiders since a 25-24 loss on November 28, 2004, and limited them to 16 points in sweeping last year's series.

San Diego at New England

San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers struggled against the Patriots in January, completing only 14 of 32 passes for 230 yards and one interception while also losing a fumble. He was 22-for-31 for 190 yards with an interception against the Bears last week.

Washington at Philadelphia

Philadelphia has won nine of the last 11 meetings with Washington. The only two losses came during the Eagles' disastrous 6-10 season in 2005 - the only year of the previous six they failed to win the division.

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[pm530]

National Football League - Gameday

NFL
Gameday


Sunday, September 16

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NFL Gameday
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Sunday NFL Gameday

Vince Young and the Tennessee Titans will be looking to hold off the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday afternoon. Here's a look at some of the matchups in your NFL Gameday …

Indianapolis Colts (-7) at Tennessee Titans (Total 46)
LP Field, 1:00pm ET (CBS)

The Colts didn't have any trouble picking up a win versus the Saints in their season opener, as they got three touchdown passes from Peyton Manning and two scores from Reggie Wayne in a 41-10 home victory. Manning went 18-of-30 for 288 yards in the contest, while Joseph Addai rushed for 118 yards and a touchdown in the Week 1 win.

The Titans also started the season 1-0 by getting past the Jaguars 13-10 on the road last Sunday. Young didn't have much of a passing day in the victory - he went just 11-of-18 for 78 yards, with an interception - but he did rush for 22 yards and a score in the win. Chris Brown ran for an incredible 175 yards on 19 carries for Tennessee that day.

Houston Texans at Carolina Panthers (-6.5) (Total 39)
Bank of America Stadium, 1:00pm ET (CBS)

The Texans took advantage of a weak Chiefs team in their home opener last week, walking away with a 20-3 win and a 1-0 record. Matt Schaub completed 16-of-22 pass attempts for 225 yards for Houston, with one touchdown and one interception, while Ahman Green ran for 73 yards. Andre Johnson had 142 receiving yards and a score.

The Panthers started off their season on the right foot by getting past the Rams 27-13 on the road in Week 1. Jake Delhomme tossed three touchdown strikes for Carolina in that win, completing 18-of-27 pass attempts for 201 yards. DeShaun Foster ran for 94 yards on 17 carries, and Steve Smith caught seven balls for 118 yards and a touchdown.

Seattle Seahawks (-2.5) at Arizona Cardinals (Total 42.5)
University of Phoenix Stadium, 4:05pm ET (FOX)

Seattle held the Bucs to just two field goals last week as they rolled to a 20-6 home victory. Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck completed 17-of-24 pass attempts for 222 yards in the win, with one touchdown pass and no interceptions. Shaun Alexander ran for 105 yards and a score on the day, and Maurice Morris had a TD catch in the fourth quarter.

The Cardinals came up short in the second half of last week's Monday Night Football doubleheader, falling by a final score of 20-17 on the road to the 49ers. Matt Leinart went just 14-of-28 for 102 yards in the loss for Arizona, with one touchdown pass and two interceptions. Edgerrin James rushed for 92 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries.

San Diego Chargers at New England Patriots (-3.5) (Total 47)
Gillette Stadium, 8:15pm ET (NBC)

LaDainian Tomlinson threw for a touchdown in the third quarter and ran for a touchdown in the fourth quarter last week as the Chargers held off the Bears 14-3 at home. Philip Rivers completed 22-of-31 pass attempts for 190 yards for San Diego in the win, and was intercepted once. Antonio Gates had 107 receiving yards and a score in the victory.

The Patriots got caught cheating last week, but they also managed to pick up a 38-14 road win over the Jets in their season opener. Tom Brady was good on 22-of-28 pass attempts for 297 yards in the win, with three TD strikes and no interceptions. Randy Moss caught nine balls for 183 yards on the day, and contributed a third-quarter score.

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[pm530]

NFL

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Points of Interest
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09/14/07
07:53 PM Injuries
NFL
Giants QB Eli Manning (shoulder) is now a game-time decision on Sunday according to the NFL Network.

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[pm530]

Major League Soccer

MLS

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MLS Previews
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Preview: CD Chivas USA at Rapids


Ante Razov quietly keeps getting closer to MLS' all-time scoring record.

He'll try to move into second place on the league's list Sunday when CD Chivas USA visits the Colorado Rapids.

Razov has 107 goals, one behind Jason Kreis for second on the all-time list and three back of D.C.'s Jaime Moreno for the MLS record. Moreno overtook Kreis on Aug. 22.

Razov is the only player in league history to be the all-time scoring leader for two teams, Chivas USA (23) and Chicago (76). He has netted 10 goals in 23 career games against Colorado (7-10-7).

The 33-year-old forward has been key in helping once-hapless Chivas reverse its direction after a league-worst 4-22-6 record in 2005, the team's inaugural season.

He was acquired by the club in a trade with New York prior to the 2006 season and helped it into the playoffs for the first time, netting team highs of 14 goals and eight assists. This year, Razov is second on the team with nine goals and eight assists in 23 games.

Razov got another goal Thursday, leading Chivas USA (13-6-4) to a 3-0 rout of city rival Los Angeles - the team that cut him in 1997 after he totaled one goal in six games over two seasons.

"We showed that right now we're the better team in Los Angeles," Razov said after Chivas won the Super Classico season series for the first time. "We're happy with that and we're proud of that."

The victory extended Chivas' unbeaten run to six games (5-0-1) and moved it into first place in the Western Conference, one point ahead of reigning MLS Cup champion Houston - which visits the Galaxy Sunday.

Chivas USA's surge has seen it outscore opponents 14-2, with all the victories coming by shutout.

"When we have a lead, it's usually good for us," said Razov, who has three goals and three assists in the last four games. "It opens up spaces wide and in behind them and we can exploit that pretty well."

Chivas also appears to be improving on the road, winning its last two games to improve to 4-6-2 away from home this season and 8-24-12 all-time.

The club is 3-0-2 in its last five games against the Rapids, but Razov has only found the net once in that span. Both of Chivas' ties have come at Colorado.

The Rapids hope they can continue to solve Razov and extend their home winning streak to four games after a disappointing 3-1 loss at Los Angeles on Sept. 8.

That defeat was compounded when Colorado lost goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul to an abdominal strain in the 58th minute. Veteran backup Zach Thornton replaced him and allowed two goals on three shots in his team debut.

Coundoul's status against Chivas is uncertain, which could give Thornton his first start for the Rapids after spending nine years with the Fire - seven as Razov's teammate.

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Preview: Dynamo at Galaxy

The Houston Dynamo are in position to regain first place in the Western Conference when they visit the lowly Los Angeles Galaxy on Sunday.

The Dynamo (12-7-6) slipped to second in the West after surging CD Chivas USA beat the Galaxy 3-0 on Thursday. Though Houston is 2-0-2 in its last four league matches, Chivas is 5-0-1 in its last six and holds a one-point advantage over the defending MLS Cup-champion Dynamo.

Chivas plays at Colorado on Sunday. Houston will visit Chivas in the regular-season finale on Oct. 20.

Prior to that contest, Houston has two games against the Galaxy (4-12-5) and one versus struggling Real Salt Lake, giving it a couple of prime opportunities to boost its playoff positioning. The Dynamo's biggest challenge prior to meeting Chivas could be a road match against playoff-bound FC Dallas on Sept. 30.

The Dynamo, though, will play four of their final five matches on the road, including the next two.

"We got five games left," Houston defender Eddie Robinson told the Dynamo's official Web site. "We can get a lot of points out of the games."

In Houston's last match on Sept. 8, Nate Jaqua recorded his second career hat trick and Corey Ashe assisted on all three goals en route to a 4-3 home win over Salt Lake.

"It feels great," Jaqua said. "Getting the hat trick is neat. I'm happy to do that."

Houston looks to extend its unbeaten streak against Los Angeles to three games. The teams played to a scoreless draw at Houston on April 8 in their most recent meeting.

The Dynamo went 2-1-1 in last season's series.

The Galaxy will try to rebound from Thursday's loss - the seventh in their last eight league matches. Los Angeles has also been shut out in three of its last five league games. Its last goal was by Kyle Martino in a 3-1 win over Colorado on Sept. 8.

"We're still naive in certain parts of the field," forward Landon Donovan told the Galaxy's official Web site. "We still have a lot to learn."

Los Angeles, which has a league-low 17 points, needs to win five of its final nine matches to avoid setting a franchise record for fewest victories in a season. The Galaxy, who went 9-12-9 in 2003, are on track to miss the playoffs for the second straight year.

"It's been a long year to be honest," Galaxy coach Frank Yallop said. "It's been like this from the start if you like. We're going to keep going until we're out of it."

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[pm530]

Major League Soccer

MLS

Sunday, September 16

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MLS – Additional Previews
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MLS Preview

Sunday, September 16, 2007 (All times Eastern)


CD Chivas USA (13-6-4) at Colorado (7-10-7), 3 p.m.

Commerce City, CO - "Chivas is a very good team with a great atmosphere and my goal is to get all the way to playoffs and we're proving right now that we're the best team in Major League Soccer," CD Chivas USA reserve forward Laurent Merlin told MLSnet.com after the team's Super Clasico win over the Los Angeles Galaxy on Thursday.

D.C. United might have something to say about that comment, but few can argue that the Goats belong in that class right now.

"It's massive for the club, massive for the fans. We've been taking a beating from those guys for a couple of years and eventually it was going to turn," Chivas forward Ante Razov said after the win against the Galaxy. "It can't go on forever. We showed that right now we're the better team in Los Angeles. We're happy with that and we're proud of that."

Chivas can clinch a playoff spot while also severely damaging the Colorado Rapids chances of making it with a league win at Dick's Sporting Goods Park Sunday afternoon.

A loss would be the Rapids second-straight, after losing to the Galaxy 3-1 in Los Angeles last weekend. With the defeat, the Rapids dropped into a ninth- place tie with Columbus in the eight team playoff bracket, meaning the team has some points to make up.

"They created four or five chances and finished three. We created five, six chances and got one," Colorado coach Fernando Clavijo said of the L.A. loss.

One thing going for it is Colorado gets surging Chivas at home. The Goats are an MLS best 9-0-2 at home, but just 4-6-4 on the road although they are 3-1 in their last four.

After Sunday's league fixture, Chivas hosts Kansas City next Saturday while the Rapids travel to Real Salt Lake the same day.


Houston (12-7-6) at Los Angeles (4-12-5), 8 p.m.

Carson, CA - Houston and Los Angeles, which are owned by the same company, AEG, are two teams on the opposite side of the spectrum.

The Dynamo are second in the Western table and are built around a gritty defensive backline and skill up the middle. The Galaxy are last in the Western table, and are built around the flashy form of superstars David Beckham and Landon Donovan.

The two clubs meet Sunday in a Major League Soccer clash at The Home Depot Center.

L.A. is coming off a 3-0 loss to CD Chivas USA Thursday night in which it lost its first Super Clasico title to the upstart Goats.

"I'm just incredibly disappointed. Anytime we face Chivas where we don't walk away with three points is a disappointment," Galaxy midfielder Kyle Martino said. "To feel like we had a lot of the run of the play and not capitalize on chances where we could have put some pressure on them adds to that disappointment."

Ante Razov scored early in the first half for Chivas before Francisco Mendoza and Laurent Merlin added two late goals.

"I thought we played well for the most part, but we're still naive in certain parts of the field," Donovan said. "I think Chivas has done that all year. They wait for you to make that mistake and then they make you pay. I thought we played well overall, but we still have a lot to learn."

Not only did the Galaxy lose the Super Clasico, but their slim playoff hopes took a major hit with the loss on Thursday. They are currently 12 points out of the final spot with just nine games left.

"We needed to get three points tonight, obviously," galaxy coach Frank Yallop said. "It's been a long year to be honest. It's been like this from the start if you like. We're going to keep going until we're out of it."

Houston is coming off a 4-3 win over Real Salt Lake last Sunday in which forward Nate Jaqua scored a hat trick in the win.

"It feels great. It's even better since we got the win," Jaqua said. "We made it tough on ourselves at the end, but we were able to get out of there at the end. Getting the hat trick is neat. I'm happy to do that."

The win extended the Dynamo unbeaten streak to four games, but the team has been anything but impressive in the stretch.

"It's three points - a much needed three points," Houston coach Dominic Kinnear said.

The Dynamo need three points in Los Angeles Sunday to keep pace with surging CD Chivas USA, which took over the top spot in the West with the win over the Galaxy Thursday. The team can clinch a spot in the '07 playoffs with a win, a Columbus loss and a Colorado loss.

After Sunday's league fixture, Houston plays at Western rival Dallas on Sept. 30 and L.A. plays at RSL Wednesday.

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[pm530]

WNBA – Betting Trends

WNBA


Sunday, September 16

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Betting Trends
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Trends - Phoenix at Detroit

ATS Trends
Phoenix
Mercury are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog of 0.5-4.5.
Mercury are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games.
Mercury are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5.
Mercury are 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games as a road underdog.
Mercury are 22-7 ATS in their last 29 games as an underdog.
Mercury are 22-10 ATS in their last 32 games following a ATS loss.
Mercury are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 Sunday games.
Mercury are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 2 days rest.
Mercury are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 vs. Eastern Conference.
Mercury are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.


Detroit
Shock are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 WNBA Chamionship games.
Shock are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 playoff games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5.
Shock are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall.
Shock are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 games as a home favorite of 0.5-4.5.
Shock are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games vs. a team with a winning S.U. record.
Shock are 23-6 ATS in their last 29 games as a favorite of 0.5-4.5.
Shock are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following a ATS win.
Shock are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games as a favorite.
Shock are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games following a S.U. loss.
Shock are 5-14-1 ATS in their last 20 home games.
Shock are 5-14-1 ATS in their last 20 games as a home favorite.
Shock are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 Sunday games.


OU Trends
Phoenix
Over is 6-1 in Mercury last 7 road games.
Over is 5-1 in Mercury last 6 games following a S.U. win.
Over is 5-2 in Mercury last 7 Sunday games.
Over is 10-4 in Mercury last 14 overall.
Over is 11-5 in Mercury last 16 games as an underdog.
Over is 11-5 in Mercury last 16 games as an underdog of 0.5-4.5.


Detroit
Under is 4-0-1 in Shock last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.
Under is 4-1 in Shock last 5 games following a S.U. loss.
Under is 5-2-1 in Shock last 8 overall.
Over is 11-5 in Shock last 16 games as a home favorite.
Over is 11-5 in Shock last 16 home games.
Over is 13-6 in Shock last 19 vs. Western Conference.


Head to Head
Mercury are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings.

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[pm530]

Baseball - Tips & Trends

MLB


Sunday, September 16

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Tips and Trends
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Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals (1:35 PM ET)

Atlanta starter Tim Hudson is a solid 4-1 with a sparkling 1.29 ERA in seven career starts versus Washington. The right-hander has allowed just one home run and fanned 40 batters over 48 2/3 innings. BIG EDGE: BRAVES
Hudson has posted a 7-3 record and 3.38 ERA in 15 road starts this season. The Braves have lost his last two starts away from Turner Field, but have been outscored by just two runs. EDGE: BRAVES
Nationals right-hander Shawn Hill picked up a 5-3 defeat in his only career start against the Braves. He gave up three earned runs and seven hits over six innings of work. SLIGHT EDGE: BRAVES
Washington has won three straight games with Hill on the mound, with both victories coming against the Florida Marlins. The right-hander has given up four earned runs and 17 hits over his last 12 1/3 innings. SLIGHT EDGE: NATIONALS


Los Angeles Angels at Chicago White Sox (2:05 PM ET)

Los Angeles left-hander Joe Saunders has posted an impressive 5-1 record and 2.93 ERA in six road starts. Opposing batters are hitting just .260 against him on the road, while batting .325 at Angel Stadium. EDGE: ANGELS
Saunders was handed a 9-0 defeat against the White Sox last season, as the left-hander allowed seven earned runs and eight hits over 3 1/3 innings. SLIGHT EDGE: WHITE SOX
Chicago’s Mark Buehrle has a dismal 1-4 record in 14 career outings versus Los Angeles, but carries a semi-respectable 4.21 ERA. He’s 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in two starts against them in 2007, giving up six runs and 15 hits over 12 innings of work. EDGE: ANGELS
Buehrle is an even 2-2 with an impressive 2.86 ERA in 11 daytime starts. The White Sox ace has tallied a 39-22 overall record over 93 day appearances over his career. EDGE: WHITE SOX


San Francisco Giants at San Diego Padres (4:05 PM ET)

San Francisco’s Tim Lincecum will make just his second career start against San Diego. He led the Giants to a 4-3 victory over the Padres on June 25, tossing seven shutout innings and striking out eight. SLIGHT EDGE: GIANTS
Lincecum has tallied a solid 4-1 record and 3.82 ERA in 11 road starts in 2007. The right-hander has limited hitters to just a .208 average on the road, while striking out 71 batters over 66 innings. EDGE: GIANTS
Padres ace Jake Peavy is searching for his tenth career victory against the Giants, as the right-hander has gone 9-6 with a 3.44 ERA in 19 starts. He threw six shutout innings in picking up a victory in his only start against them this season, giving up just three hits while striking out six. EDGE: PADRES
Peavy returns to Petco Park for the first time since September 1, as the Padres have won his last two home starts. He’s allowed just two earned runs and 12 hits over his last 28 innings of work at home. EDGE: PADRES


Arizona Diamondbacks at Los Angeles Dodgers (4:10 PM ET)

Despite dropping the first two games of this series, Arizona is an NL-best 36-23 since the All-Star break. EDGE: D-BACKS
Arizona’s Edgar Gonzalez has been tagged for 10 runs and 15 hits in 10 1/3 innings against Los Angeles this season. In five appearances with four starts overall against the Dodgers, Gonzalez is 0-3 with a 10.18 ERA. EDGE: DODGERS
Los Angeles has picked up 11 victories in its last 17 meetings against Arizona at Dodger Stadium. EDGE: DODGERS
Loaiza - who’s making his first appearance against the Diamondbacks since July 1, 200 - is 0-2 with a 5.10 ERA in six career outings against them. EDGE: D-BACKS


New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox (ESPN | 8:05 PM ET)

New York’s Roger Clemens has gone 9-5 with a 3.73 ERA in 20 career starts versus Boston. The future Hall-of-Fame pitcher picked up a 4-3 victory over the Red Sox two starts back, allowing one run and two hits over six innings. EDGE: YANKEES
Clemens has struggled mightily on the road, posting a 2-4 record and 5.93 ERA. The right-hander has limited batters to just a .256 average away from Yankee Stadium. SLIGHT EDGE: RED SOX
Red Sox veteran right-hander Curt Schilling is an even 7-7 with a 4.71 ERA in 23 career outings versus the Yankees. He’s 0-2 with a 5.76 ERA in four starts against New York this season, allowing 16 earned runs and 35 hits over 25 innings. EDGE: YANKEES
Schilling has a winning 3-2 record and 4.21 ERA at home this season. The right-hander has a phenomenal 28-10 record at Fenway Park during his 68 appearances. EDGE: RED SOX

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