Friday Trends and Indexes 10/26

[pm530]

National Football League – Long Sheet

NFL
Long Sheet


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Sunday, October 28
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CLEVELAND (3 - 3) at ST LOUIS (0 - 7) - 10/28/2007, 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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DETROIT (4 - 2) at CHICAGO (3 - 4) - 10/28/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

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


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INDIANAPOLIS (6 - 0) at CAROLINA (4 - 2) - 10/28/2007, 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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NY GIANTS (5 - 2) vs. MIAMI (0 - 7) - 10/28/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY GIANTS are 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in October games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

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


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OAKLAND (2 - 4) at TENNESSEE (4 - 2) - 10/28/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.

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


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PHILADELPHIA (2 - 4) at MINNESOTA (2 - 4) - 10/28/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 114-81 ATS (+24.9 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
PHILADELPHIA is 25-12 ATS (+11.8 Units) against NFC North 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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PITTSBURGH (4 - 2) at CINCINNATI (2 - 4) - 10/28/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 37-20 ATS (+15.0 Units) in October games since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 41-24 ATS (+14.6 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 since 1992.
CINCINNATI is 45-67 ATS (-28.7 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.

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


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BUFFALO (2 - 4) at NY JETS (1 - 6) - 10/28/2007, 4:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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


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HOUSTON (3 - 4) at SAN DIEGO (3 - 3) - 10/28/2007, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.

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


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JACKSONVILLE (4 - 2) at TAMPA BAY (4 - 3) - 10/28/2007, 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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NEW ORLEANS (2 - 4) at SAN FRANCISCO (2 - 4) - 10/28/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 1-0 against the spread versus SAN FRANCISCO over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 1-0 straight up against SAN FRANCISCO 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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WASHINGTON (4 - 2) at NEW ENGLAND (7 - 0) - 10/28/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 20-36 ATS (-19.6 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all games this season.
NEW ENGLAND is 58-38 ATS (+16.2 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 72-49 ATS (+18.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
NEW ENGLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) as a favorite this season.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) off a division game over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in October games over the last 2 seasons.

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


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Monday, October 29
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GREEN BAY (5 - 1) at DENVER (3 - 3) - 10/29/2007, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 35-18 ATS (+15.2 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 40-23 ATS (+14.7 Units) in road games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
DENVER is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

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


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[pm530]

National Football League - Short Sheet

NFL
Short Sheet


Sunday, October 28th

Week 8 Byes: Arizona, Atlanta, Baltimore, Dallas, Kansas City, Seattle

Cleveland at St. Louis, 1:00 ET
Cleveland: 6-0 ATS after allowing 30+ points
St. Louis: 2-8 ATS off a road loss by 14+ points

Detroit at Chicago, 1:00 ET
Detroit: 1-8 ATS as a road underdog of 7 points or less
Chicago: 11-2 Over as a home favorite

Indianapolis at Carolina, 1:00 ET
Indianapolis: 5-1 ATS vs. NFC South opponents
Carolina: 6-1 Over off BB road wins

NY Giants vs. Miami, 1:00 ET in London, England
NY Giants: 7-0 ATS in October
Miami: 1-11 ATS in the first half of the season

Oakland at Tennessee, 1:00 ET
Oakland: 7-17 ATS off an ATS loss
Tennessee: 30-16 ATS off a division win

Philadelphia at Minnesota, 1:00 ET
Philadelphia: 25-12 ATS vs. NFC North opponents
Minnesota: 23-9 Under off BB road games

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1:00 ET
Pittsburgh: 7-2 Under playing on artificial turf
Cincinnati: 1-7 ATS after losing 2 of their last 3 games

Buffalo at NY Jets, 4:05 ET
Buffalo: 20-7 Over off 3+ ATS wins
NY Jets: 1-5 ATS off 3+ losses

Houston at San Diego, 4:05 ET
Houston: 1-6 ATS off a loss as a favorite
San Diego: 7-1 ATS vs. AFC South opponents

Jacksonville at Tampa Bay, 4:05 ET
Jacksonville: 4-1 Under vs. NFC South opponents
Tampa Bay: 1-7 ATS after winning 4 or 5 of their last 6 games

New Orleans at San Francisco, 4:15 ET
New Orleans: 2-9 ATS as a favorite
San Francisco: 7-3 Over in October

Washington at New England, 4:15 ET
Washington: 8-1 Under away off a home game
New England: 7-0 ATS as a favorite


Monday, October 29th

Green Bay at Denver, 8:30 ET ESPN
Green Bay: 51-30 Over after having 75 or less rushing yards
Denver: 4-12 ATS vs. NFC North opponents

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[pm530]

National Football League – Write up

NFL
Write-up


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Sunday, October 28
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Browns (3-3) @ Rams (0-7) —St Louis is having the worst-case scenario season, with five losses by 14+ points, no home field edge, a horrible offensive line; one of their guards got arrested on his day off for hitting his wife. Great. Trap game for Browns,
0-2 on road (26-24 at Oakland, 34-17 at Foxboro) but with win here, slip into playoff contention. If you exclude Rams’ 34-31 home loss to Arizona, they’ve scored one TD on their last 58 drives- one writer called their OL worst in modern NFL history. Browns had last week off—this is their first game of year on artificial turf. Six of last seven Ram games stayed under total, but five of six Cleveland games went over.

Lions (4-2) @ Bears (3-4) —Detroit lost five of last six visits to Soldier Field, dropping last two, 34-7/38-6; their 37-27 home win vs Chicago four weeks ago (Lions scored 34 points in wild fourth quarter - Bears led 7-3 at half), was their first in last five series games. Griese led Chicago on 97-yard drive for their upset win in Philly, keeping their season alive, but Bears allowed 34 points in losing each of last two home games. In first meeting, Bears had 14 penalties for 102 yards, averaged just 2.8 yards per pass. Detroit has allowed 21-56-34 points in its three road games; they are 1-2 with less than three takeaways, with their two losses by 56-21/34-3 scores- they allowed 11.9/8.6 yards/pass attempt in those games.

Colts (6-0) @ Panthers (4-2) —Indy traveling again off physical Monday night division game, have Patriots on deck, but Carolina stuck between Carr/Testaverde under center, and Panthers are 0-2 at home (34-21 vs Texans, 20-7 vs Bucs) as home side is 0-6 in their ’07 games. Colts have four wins by 18+ points; they’re road wins are 22-20 (Titans), 30-24 (Texans), 29-7 (Jags). Carolina is coming off its bye; they’ve won three of last four games, have five INTs in last two games, after having zero in first four. Colts scored 29+ points in five of six games- only Texans held them to 22. Colts scored double figures in 11 of 12 halves this season, with second half at Tennessee (six) only time they didn’t. Last three Panther tilts stayed under.

Giants (5-2) vs Dolphins (0-7) (@ London) —Red-hot Giants cross pond to face a woeful Dolphin outfit whose best offensive player (RB Brown) is out for year (knee). Winless Fish have backup QB Lemon under center, trying to score enough points to offset porous defense that allowed 90 points in last two games, 31+ in five of last six. Giants won, covered last five games, with last four wins by 11+ points; they’ve given up just three TD’s on foes’ last 46 drives. Miami allowed 11 TD’s on opponents’ last 20 drives, with Browns lighting them up for 41 points. Not sure if distractions of travel will neutralize huge edge Giants have in almost every area of this game. 90,000 expected for night game at Wembley Stadium.

Raiders (2-4) @ Titans (4-2) — Young expected back under center for Titans, who blew 32-7 lead in Houston last week, only to rally for winning FG at gun behind backup QB (and former Raider) Collins, as PK Bironas set NFL record with eight FGs. Home side won four of last five series games, with Raiders 1-3 in this state; average total in last five series games, 64.2. Oakland scored just 24 points (two TD’s on 22 drives) in losing both games since its bye; they’re 2-1 as road dog, winning at Miami, losing at Denver (23-20OT), San Diego (28-14). Tennessee split its two home games, losing to Colts (22-20), beating Falcons (20-13)- their wins this year are by 7-17-3-2 points. Under is 4-1-1 in Titan games.

Eagles (2-4) @ Vikings (2-4) — If you take away 56-21 win vs the Lions, Philly has scored three TD’s on 50 drives this year (they had eight TD’s on 13 drives vs Lions). Eagle defense allowed the game-winning 97-yard TD drive in last 2:00 to Griese’s Bears last week, so now their season hangs in peril, with Cowboys, Skins on deck in next two weeks. Minnesota coach Childress was once OC for Eagles, so he knows McNabb well; problem is, his own QB isn’t NFL-ready (6-19 passing last week); Vikings are 0-4 if they score less than 24 points—Philly’s last three opponents scored 16-9-19 points. Five of six Philly games stayed under total this season. This is Eagles’ first visit here in a decade.

Steelers (4-2) @ Bengals (2-4) —Home side lost last six series games, with Steelers 11-4 in last 15, 8-1 in last nine here, winning last six in Queen City, by 27-7-5-14-14-6OT points). Bengals snapped four-game skid last week, rallying from 20-10 halftime deficit; they’re 0-3 when they score less than 27 points. Steelers lost last two road games; all four of their wins this season are by 21+ points. Last week, Denver (7.5) was first team to average more than 5.5 yds/pass attempt vs Steelers in ’07. Bengal defense has given up 33.4 pg in last five games; they’re 0-4 with negative turnover ratio, 2-0 with positive one. In last three games, Steelers scored 7-7-7 in first half; in first three games, they had 17-12-14 points at the half.

Bills (2-4) @ Jets (1-6) —Buffalo (+3.5) won first meeting 17-14 four weeks ago, in game that was 0-0 at half, a game that sent Jets spinning on current four-game skid; this series split in seven of last eight years- Bills lost four of last five visits here, and are 0-2 on road in ’07, losing 26-3 at Pittsburgh (+9.5), 38-7 at Foxboro (+16), much tougher foes than they face here. Jets are 1-3 in the Swamp; their only win was 31-28 win vs 0-7 Miami (led 31-13 late in game)- they trailed at half only once during current skid, twice leading by 10. Only once in seven games have Jets outscored its opponent in second half (outscored 94-41 in second half of last five games). Jet run defense allowed 188-151-177 yards in last three weeks.

Texans (3-4) @ Chargers (3-3) —Unsure of site of this game, due to wildfires in San Diego area; would guess it will be Arizona, like last time fires forced Bolts out of town. Ton of distractions for Charger staff, players and coaches, as real life intrudes. Houston rallied from 32-7 deficit to take lead in last minute last week, but couldn’t prevent Titans from driving field for eighth FG of day, the game-winner. Texans lost field position battle by whopping 24-yard average last week; Titans started seven drives in Texan territory, kicking five FGs on those drives. Not sure if Rosenfels or Schaub will QB Texans; both seem capable. Houston is now -9 in turnovers their last five games. Way too many variables to pick this game.

Jaguars (4-2) @ Buccaneers (4-3) —Garrard is out (ankle), Quinn Gray is QB, and backup needs to be signed, as WR Jones (played QB at Arkansas) was #3 QB Monday. Jags are also traveling on short week, albeit fairly short trip to Tampa, where Bucs are 3-0 this season, winning by 31-14/24-3/13-10 scores. Tampa allowed just three TD’s on 30 drives at home this year. Jags are 2-0 on road, winning at Denver, Kansas City, two tough places to play, but that was with Garrard under center. Home side won all three series games, with Bucs winning 17-16 in only game here, back in ’95). Four of last five Tampa games stayed under the total.

Saints (2-4) @ 49ers (2-4) —Niners are go-against team as long as Dilfer is QB; they’ve lost last four games, scoring 10.3 pg (four TD’s on 46 drives), they’re -6 in turnovers last 3 weeks. Saints scored 25 pg in winning last two weeks, after 0-4 start; they’re 1-2 on road, losing only grass game 31-14 at Tampa. 49ers lost last two home games (23-3 vs Seattle, 9-7 vs. Ravens) scoring one TD on last 25 home drives. Saints scored 33 pg in winning last three series games, but all three were in Big Easy; they lost nine of last 11 visits to this site, but that was back when teams were division rivals, and Niners were much stronger team. Saints’ pass defense improved in last two games.

Redskins (4-2) @ Patriots (7-0) —Pats won, covered first seven games, scoring 34+ points in all seven; they’ve won home games 38-14/38-7/34-17 but Colts are on deck, while Skins are capable foe getting ridiculously high spread. Skins’ only losses are 24-17 at home to Giants (they led 17-3 at half), 17-14 at Lambeau (led
14-7 at half)—they’ve held every foe but Giants under 20 points. Arizona is only team that has averaged more than 5.4 yards per pass attempt against them. Patriots are a machine right now, with 32 TD’s on 68 drives, with 13 FGs tried and only 15 3/outs. Over is 6-1 in their games; under is 4-2 in Washington’s games. Very difficult to go against Brady, approaching best-ever tier of QB’s.

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Monday, October 29
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Packers (5-1) @ Broncos (3-3) —Second straight night home game for Denver, but Rockies could be playing Game 5 of World Series two miles away at same time, which should distract locals. Broncos have allowed 23-38-41-28 points in last four games and three of those were at home- they’ve allowed 13 TD’s on foes’ last 28 drives. Pack’s only loss was 27-20 home night game vs Bears, game they led 17-7 at half. AFC teams are only up 14-12 vs NFC after seven weeks, closer than recent years. Team that won battle for field position has won every Packer game. Last five Denver games went over total, as did four of last five Green Bay tilts. Broncos have three wins, by 1-3-3 points.

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[Udog]

Hockey today - Friday, October 26


SCOREBOARD Friday, Oct. 26

Montreal at Carolina (7 p.m. EDT). The Hurricanes (6-1-2-1) have earned points in all but one of their games, and have won three straight at home.

STARS Thursday

-Nigel Dawes and Henrik Lundqvist, Rangers. Dawes scored twice and Lundqvist made 22 saves for his second shutout in three games, helping New York to a 2-0 victory over New Jersey.

-Pascal Leclaire stopped 36 shots to lead Columbus to a 3-0 victory over St. Louis.

-Brad Richards, Lightning, had two goals in a 5-2 victory over Philadelphia.

-Jiri Tlusty, Maple Leafs, scored two goals 35 seconds apart in a 5-2 win at Pittsburgh.

-Dan Ellis, Predators, stopped 20 shots for his first career shutout in Nashville's 3-0 victory over Atlanta.

-Ales Hemsky, Oilers, scored twice in regulation and added the shootout winner to lift Edmonton to a 5-4 win over Minnesota.

LIGHTNING START

Brad Richards had two goals to lead Tampa Bay past the Philadelphia Flyers, 5-2, on Thursday night. The Lightning tied a franchise record set in 2002 by starting the season 5-0 at home. Tampa Bay is also 12-1 against the Flyers since the start of the 2003-04 season.

DUCK HUNT

Phoenix's 1-0 victory over Anaheim on Thursday night ended the Coyotes' 10-game losing streak against the Ducks in Anaheim dating to the 2003-2004 season. They also beat Anaheim goalie Ilya Bryzgalov for just the second time in his nine games against them.

IT'S GOOD TO BE A KING

Alexander Frolov scored the go-ahead goal and Jason LaBarbera made 29 saves Thursday night, leading the Los Angeles Kings to a 2-1 victory over Dallas, snapping a nine-game losing streak to the Stars. The win was their first over Dallas since April 1, 2006, a 1-0 victory at Staples Center. The Kings, coming off victories over Vancouver and Nashville, have won three straight for the first time since a five-game streak Feb. 11-March 7, 2006.

STREAKING

Rick Nash scored a goal in his fifth straight game on a shot between his legs and Columbus beat the Blues 3-0 on Thursday night. It was his sixth goal in his five-game goal streak and raised his season total to eight.

SNAPPED

Nigel Dawes broke New York out of its scoring slump with two goals Thursday night to lift the Rangers to a 2-0 victory over the New Jersey Devils. Dawes struck just 57 seconds in, snapping the Rangers' drought at 126 minutes, dating to last Thursday's 5-3 loss at Atlanta. It was also their first tally at even strength in 182:06, stretching to a 3-1 home loss against Ottawa on Oct. 13 that kicked off the skid. ... Dan Ellis stopped 20 shots for his first career shutout, helping the Predators snap a six-game losing streak and beat the Thrashers 3-0 Thursday night.

SIGNED

The Minnesota Wild signed defenseman Brent Burns to a four-year contract extension Thursday. Burns, 22, has 15 goals and 36 assists in 194 career NHL games over four seasons with Minnesota.

SPEAKING

''The NHL was my dream, now I've played in my first game and in my first game I scored my first two goals. It's great.'' - Toronto Rookie Jiri Tlusty after scoring twice in the Maple Leafs' 5-2 victory over the Penguins on Thursday night.

[pm530]

National Football League - Tips & Trends

NFL


Sunday, October 28

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Tips and Trends
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Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers (CBS | 1 PM ET)

This is a very difficult situational setting for Indianapolis having to play a dangerous and “rested” Carolina team coming of their bye week while the Colts have one less day to prepare for this contest after playing at Jacksonville on Monday night. The Coltss also have New England on deck, so this could be a look-ahead spot for them. EDGE: PANTHERS
Some might argue the Colts come into this contest right where they want to be, as the Patriots have stolen much of the spotlight. Nevertheless, the Colts still possess the leagues No. 3 offense in the NFL averaging 399 yards per game, and their defense has been equally impressive ranked fifth in the league. Indianapolis is also getting healthier as RB Joseph Addai (chest), WR Marvin Harrison (knee), SS Bob Sanders (ribs) and LB Freddie Keiaho (concussion) are all returning to full strength. EDGE: COLTS
Team insiders are still uncertain who will be under center for Carolina. Starting QB Jake Delhomme is out for the season and his backup David Carr had a back injury that sidelined him the last game. So it's possible that 44-year-old Vinny Testaverde could play in his second game this season. The loss of Delhomme has resulted in the offense struggling over the past three weeks, averaging just 15 points per game. EDGE: COLTS
Carolina remains one of the best betting propositions as an underdog, coming into this contest on a 20-5-2 ATS run in that situation.
The Colts are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games following a SU win.
The Colts are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games as a road favorite.
The Panthers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games.
The Panthers are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games overall.
The UNDER is 5-2 in Indy's last 7 games following a win more than 14 points.


Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears (FOX | 1 PM ET)

League insiders believe that this may be one of the most important games this week. Green Bay is 5-1 and in first place, but the Lions sit at 4-2 and the improving Bears at 3-4 are certainly within striking distance. A victory for Chicago could put the team in excellent position to make a run for the playoffs following the bye week. SLIGHT EDGE: BEARS
This is an off-surface for the Lions, who play on turf in their home stadium. So far this season they have not done well when hitting the road playing on grass. Over the past two seasons, Detroit has lost both games played at Chicago by a combined score of 72-13. In their last two away contests (both on grass) this season, they have lost to the Eagles and Redskins by a combined score of 90-24 and were out-gained by a total of 326 yards in those contests. BIG EDGE: BEARS
Chicago is also looking to avenge a 37-27 loss at Detroit earlier this season. The Bears were embarrassed in that contest as they were leading 13-3 in the fourth quarter until Detroit scored an NFL-record 34 points in the fourth quarter. SLIGHT EDGE: BEARS
The Detroit defense is a mess, giving up 385 yards per game, which is third-worst in the NFL. That could prove to be bad news against this Chicago offense that is averaging an impressive 26 points per game since QB Brian Griese took over as the starter. EDGE: BEARS
The Lions are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games against a losing team.
The Lions are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 road games.
The Bears are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games against the NFC.
The Bears are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games as a home favorite.
The underdog is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.


Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals (CBS | 1 PM ET)

League insiders were a bit surprised about last Sunday night’s loss against an under-performing Denver team, considering how impressive Pittsburgh's overall numbers have been. They come into this contest ranked sixth in total offense and second in rushing with 159 yards on the ground per game. Their defensive numbers are equally impressive, ranking No. 1 in the NFL and allowing a meager 250 yards per game while outscoring opponents by a 26-13 average. EDGE: STEELERS
Cincinnati comes into this contest with one of the worst defensive teams in the NFL, allowing 31 points and 384 yards per game, which ranks 29th in the league. Even more concerning for the defense is that the Steelers have a very balanced offense that excels at running the football led by RB Willie Parker. EDGE: STEELERS
The Steelers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss.
The Steelers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
The Bengals are 3-8-1 in their last 12 games against a winning team.
The Bengals are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a home underdog.
The underdog is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.


New York Giants vs. Miami Dolphins at London, England (FOX | 1 PM ET)

This is yet another terrible matchup for Miami fresh off a blowout loss to New England in which the team's defense was shredded for 359 yards through the air. The Dolphins take on another surging team with a strong passing attack. The Giants come into this contest winners of five in a row and their offense is averaging an impressive 26 points per game. EDGE: GIANTS
Some team insiders are still concerned about this Miami defense (which was suppose to me one of the best in the league) that has been decimated with injuries and has given up 16, 37, 31, 35, 22, 41 and 49 points in their seven losses (33 points per game on average). The defense gave up 400 yards to Washington, including 191 rushing, 166 yards rushing to Dallas, 141 rushing to the Jets, 299 yards rushing to the Raiders, 140 rushing to the Browns and then were dismantled by New England, giving up 443 total yards with most of the Patriots reserves playing the entire second half of the game. BIG EDGE: GIANTS
Going into the contest with New England, Miami’s one bright spot was RB Ronnie Brown, who injured his knee and is now out for the season. BIG EDGE: GIANTS
The Giants are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games against a losing team.
The Giants are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games.
The Dolphins are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU loss.
The Dolphins are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games on grass.
The OVER is 8-2 in New York's last 10 games overall.


Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings (FOX | 1 PM ET)

Minnesota team insiders are reporting that Minnesota head coach Brad Childress has been pushing his players hard this week in practice as this is the contest he wants his team to win. Childress was the former offensive coordinator for the Eagles and left the team on bad terms. EDGE: VIKINGS
One league insider believes that there is “a lot of potential” in this Eagles team as they have had little trouble moving the football, but they just are not getting it done in the red zone. The Eagles scored touchdowns on 55.5 percent of their red-zone trips from 2000 through last season, but they are just 28th this season, scoring less than a third of their trips inside the 20. EDGE: VIKINGS
League insiders are quick to point out that this is still an Eagles offensive unit that is struggling. Despite a 56-point effort against the Lions, the Eagles have struggled to put up points, as that is the only time they have scored more than 16 points this season. On the season, the Eagles are averaging only 12 points per contest. EDGE: VIKINGS
The Vikings defense is No. 1 in the NFL against the run, but last against the pass allowing 288 yards in the air each game.
Team insiders are uncertain who will be under center this weekend for Minnesota as starting quarterback Tarvaris Jackson has a broken finger on his throwing hand. Backup Kelly Holcomb will have to play if Jackson cannot perform this week in practice. Keep in mind Holcomb was in camp with the Eagles in the preseason before being traded to Minnesota and should have a good understanding of Philly's defense. (Check status on the Pregame Wire) SLIGHT EDGE: VIKINGS
The Eagles are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games against a losing home team.
The Eagles are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against the NFC.
The Vikings are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 home games.
The Vikings are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games as a home underdog.
The favorite is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings.


Cleveland Browns at St. Louis Rams (CBS | 1 PM ET)
St. Louis welcomed back starting QB Marc Bulger last week, but he spent more time on the ground than on his feet as he was sacked seven times by the Seahawks while throwing three interceptions. However, Bulger is expected to get RB Steven Jackson back this week from a groin injury, which should help take some major pressure off him. EDGE: RAMS
The Rams are 30th in total offense, averaging just 10 points per game and their defense ranks 23rd in the league. Their main concern is a rushing defense that is allowing over 130 yards per game, which is not good news against an improving and rested Cleveland offensive line off a bye week. EDGE: BROWNS
Cleveland has enjoyed an extra week of preparation for this contest. The team's offense is averaging 28 points per game, but the defense is second-worst in the NFL, allowing 413 yards per game. One particular concern is the team's rush defense that has allowed over 110 yards rushing in every game as the Browns are giving up 30 points per game. EDGE: RAMS
The Browns are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
The Browns are 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 games following a SU win.
The Rams are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games as a home underdog.
The Rams are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games overall.
The UNDER is 6-1 in St. Louis' last 7 games overall.


Oakland Raiders at Tennessee Titans (CBS | 1 PM ET)

Oakland comes into this contest with a very conservative offensive ideology, averaging an impressive 147 yards rushing per game, good for fourth in the NFL. However, Tennessee's defense is ranked No. 1 in the NFL against the rush, so Oakland should have trouble moving the football this weekend. SLIGHT EDGE: TITANS
Tennessee QB Vince Young was available to play against the Texans last week, but head coach Jeff Fisher elected to give him more time to recover from a strained right quadriceps. Young is probable for this game and should start. EDGE: TITANS
The Raiders are 8-17 ATS in their last 25 games against a winning team.
The Raiders are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games after scoring less than 15 points.
The Titans are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 games against the NFC.
The Titans are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 home games.
The Raiders are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.


Buffalo Bills at New York Jets (CBS | 4:05 PM ET)

League insiders are interested to see how the Buffalo offense performs against what they classify as a “terrible” Jets defensive unit. On the season, Buffalo has struggled to put points on the board, averaging just 14 points per game. The Jets defense is ranked 28th in the NFL, allowing a whopping 377 yards per game, including 138 on the ground. EDGE: BILLS
Buffalo head coach Dick Jauron announced that former backup QB Trent Edwards has taken over as the permanent starter. Edwards has done a solid job, with wins over the Jets and Ravens to his credit. EDGE: BILLS
Team insiders are reporting that the Jets lockerroom was completely demoralized after giving up getting outscored 28-11 in the second half of their 38-31 loss against Cincinnati last week. Embattled QB Chad Pennington got off to a strong start that may have earned him another shot to keep his job this week, but he did not perform well in the second half, throwing an interception for a TD that helped seal the win for the Bengals in the fourth quarter. Pennington will start this game but could be on a short leash with heralded youngster Kellen Clemens waiting in the wings. EDGE: BILLS
The Bills are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a SU win.
The Bills are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games overall.
The Jets are 11-5-1 ATS in their last 17 games against a losing team.
The Jets are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a home favorite.
The home team is 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.


Houston Texans at San Diego Chargers (CBS | 4:05 PM ET)

Team insiders are becoming increasingly concerned about the health of Texan starting quarterback Matt Schaub, who has been lethargic over the last few games. Many inside the organization believe that he is having some issues with his hip-flexor muscle which is reducing the QB's mobility and his ability to plant himself and throw the deep ball. Schaub missed most of the second half of last week's contest, so there is a possibility backup Sage Rosenfels might fill in this week. (Check status on the Pregame Wire) EDGE: CHARGERS
The surging Chargers have the situational advantage here as they are coming of their bye week and should be well-rested. They will look to continue the momentum of their current 2-0 SU & ATS run, as their offense - absent for much of the first quarter of the season - has come alive thanks to 41 and 28-point efforts. EDGE: CHARGERS
League insiders believe that the recent acquisition of Chris Chambers from the Dolphins gives San Diego QB Phillip Rivers a solid veteran receiver to work with, which will also help out the team's running game. Chambers spent two seasons (2002-03) playing in head coach Norv Turner's system when Turner was Miami's offensive coordinator. EDGE: CHARGERS
The Texans are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games overall.
The Texans are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 October games.
The Chargers are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games against a losing team.
The Chargers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games vs. a losing road team.
The OVER is 5-0 in Houston's last 5 road games.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (CBS | 4:05 PM ET)

Team insiders are reporting that Jacksonville will be without the services of starting QB David Garrard who got hurt against the Colts this past Monday night. Backup QB Quinn Gray will start in his place and is a major downgrade. BIG EDGE: BUCCANEERS
Despite the loss of Garrard, this is a Jacksonville team that relies heavily on running the football - averaging 140 yards per game (fourth in the NFL) - and the defense always seems to keep the Jags in games, allowing a meager 13 points per game this season. SLIGHT EDGE: JAGUARS
The Jaguars are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games as a road underdog.
The Jaguars are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games following a Monday night game.
The Buccaneers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU loss.
The Buccaneers are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games in Week 8.
The UNDER is 4-1 in Tampa Bay's last 5 games.


Washington Redskins at New England Patriots (FOX | 4:15 PM ET)

The Patriots offense is No. 1 in the NFL, averaging nearly 40 points per game. Often overlooked is their defense that comes into this contest No. 2 in the league. New England has won all seven of its games by at least 17 points, setting a league record for scoring margin to start the season. BIG EDGE: PATRIOTS
One league insider believes this will be New England's toughest test so far this season, as the Pats face an outstanding Washington secondary and a defense that is tops in the NFC, allowing just 14 points per game. The Washington secondary held the dangerous passing attack of Detroit to just 144 total yards, including 76 through the air. EDGE: REDSKINS
The Redskins are 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games against a winning team.
The Redskins are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a SU win.
The Patriots are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games as a home favorite.
The Patriots are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a 10.5+ favorite.
The OVER is 7-1 in New England's last 8 games overall.


New Orleans Saints at San Francisco 49ers (FOX | 4:15 ET)

Many league insiders are still not sold on this New Orleans club. Despite winning their last two games, the Saints (2-4 SU/1-5 ATS) still lost both of those contests statistically, as the Seahawks held the edge in total yards 425-367 and Atlanta also had a 334-310 advantage. EDGE: 49ERS
The New Orleans secondary has been awful all year, allowing 235 passing yards per game, but the Saints do have the advantage of facing one of the league's worst offenses. The 49ers have averaged just 10.3 points in their last four games. EDGE: SAINTS
The Saints are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games against the NFC.
The Saints are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games as a favorite.
The 49ers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games.
The 49ers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against the NFC.
The Saints are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings in San Francisco.

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[Udog]

NHL
Friday's key NHL betting matchup notes


Vancouver Canucks at Washington Capitals (-115, 5 1/2)

Roberto Luongo has won nine straight starts - three in a shootout - against the Caps, recording two shutouts and a 1.74 goals-against average during that span. Only the most recent appearance - Oct. 27, 2006 - came with the Canucks.

Montreal Canadiens at Carolina Hurricanes (-170, 6)

Carolina (6-1-3) has earned a point in all but one of its 10 contests and is atop the Southeast Division with 15 points - the same number it had through 10 games in 2005-06, when it won the Stanley Cup.


Buffalo Sabres at Florida Panthers (-125, 6)

The Sabres look to avoid opening a season with four straight road losses for the first time in seven years when they continue their five-game road trip against the Florida Panthers on Friday.


San Jose Sharks at Detroit Red Wings (-150, 5 1/2)

San Jose, which has scored three goals in the final period the last two games, has lost 11 of its last 15 trips to Joe Louis Arena, including two playoff games last season.


Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames (-140, 6)

Calgary is among the league leaders with 35 goals in 10 games despite none from Alex Tanguay before Wednesday. He does, however, have nine assists, ranking second on the team behind Iginla (10).

[pm530]

National Football League – Notes

NFL
Notes

Sunday, October 28


----------------------------------------------------------------------
Fire and brimstone: Oddsmakers hold line
while Chargers players evacuate homes
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The San Diego Chargers host the Houston Texans on Sunday, but – as of late Wednesday – no one yet knows where or when the game will be played.

Wildfires in southern California have chased the Chargers from their homes and out of the state. The team is practicing in Arizona and waiting to hear where it will play come Sunday.

The Chargers and Texans aren’t the only ones playing wait-and-see. Las Vegas oddsmakers have yet to release a line for the matchup and won’t until the location is known.

“I don’t have the game up and to be honest, I don’t know what to do with it,” admits John Avello, director of race and sports operations for Wynn Las Vegas. “I need to know where they’re going to play.”

Commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters the game could be played in Los Angeles, Arizona or even Texas. San Diego’s home-field advantage is diminished but not dissolved depending on the selected area.

“San Diego’s home field is normally worth 3 or 3 ½ points,” says Mike Seba, senior oddsmaker for Las Vegas Sports Consultants. “If they play in Los Angeles or Arizona, I wouldn’t treat it as a neutral site. Charger fans still get first dibs on the tickets and it’s not that far away. It’d probably be worth 1 or 1 ½-points to the line.”

Seba’s job would be easier if the location was the only question mark. Many observers wonder aloud how the Chargers can be focused on the Texans with the chaos and implications of the wildfires.

“I could see the fires coming,” defending league MVP LaDainian Tomlinson told reporters on Tuesday. “You wake up at 4 o’clock in the morning. You get the phone call, ‘You need to evacuate.’ I see the sky was orange, so I’m like, ‘It’s serious.’”

Tomlinson has perspective on the situation. Fires in San Diego – almost four years ago to the day – forced the Chargers to play in Tempe with only 24 hours notice. The Miami Dolphins whipped the Chargers 26-10 on that Monday night.

While Seba says his group will take emotional factors into consideration in situations like this one, Avello is more skeptical.

“It’s hard for us to ever speculate on players’ emotions,” he says. “How are we supposed to know?”

Seba agrees there’s no science in predicting what players are thinking, but he argues Chargers players could easily be distracted since their opposition isn’t the fiercest of competition.

“It’d be different if San Diego was preparing for the Colts (the club’s Week 10 opponent),” Seba says.

Houston has lost four of its last five and failed to cover the number in four straight. Making matters worse, starting quarterback Matt Schaub is listed as questionable. Backup Sage Rosenfels is set to go if Schaub’s sore hip prevents him from playing.

Both Avello and Seba think the Chargers would be a 10 ½-point favorite under normal conditions (game at San Diego and Schaub starting). The number could grow as high as –13 if Schaub doesn’t play or as low as –9 if Rosenfels starts.

For oddsmakers, who will start under center for Houston is just as concerning as where the match will actually be played. Avello says he won’t put out a line until he has a good idea who will start.

“There’s no one coming in here to my sportsbook wondering where this game is. By Friday or Saturday when the guests start coming in, I’ll be under some pressure to get it out.”

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[pm530]

National Hockey League – Write up

NHL
Write-up


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, October 26
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Today's NHL analysis

Hot Teams
-- Carolina won five of its last seven games. Montreal won its last two games, 4-2/6-1.
-- Florida won its last three home games: 3-0/6-4/4-3.
-- Red Wings won six of their last eight games. Sharks are 3-1 in their last four games, giving up one goal in last two.
-- Calgary won five of its last seven games.

Cold Teams
-- Canucks, Capitols both lost four of their last five games.
-- Sabres lost last three games by combined score of 13-4.
-- Avalacnhe lost four of their five road games.

Series Records
-- Canucks won 3-2 in SO at home vs Washington LY, in only meeting since lockout.
-- Carolina won eight of last ten against the Canadiens.
-- Sabres won four of their last five vs Florida.
-- Red Wings won four in row vs San Jose: 3-2OT/4-1/2-0/4-2
-- Colorado won its last five games against the Flames.

Totals
-- Under is 3-0-1 in last four Vancouver games.
-- Under is 8-1-1 in last ten Montreal-Carolina games.
-- Over is 3-1-1 in last five Buffalo games, but under is 6-2 in last eight Florida games.
-- Under is 9-2-2 in last thirteen Detroit-San Jose games.
-- Over is 6-1-2 in Calgary's last nine games, 10-2 in last dizen Calgary-Colorado games.

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[Kaptain]

West Virginia - QB Pat White left the Mississippi State game
with mulitple injuries just after the half and did not return.

Stanford - With starting TB Anthony Kimble already out,
Stanford lost backup Jason Evans to a leg injury in the fourth
quarter of the 21-20 win over Arizona.

Georgia Tech - TB Tashard Choice was injured again. This
time it was a knee that kept him from playing after the first
quarter of the Army game. Choice says it isn't serious.

Navy - QB Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada, whose name in Hawaiian
means, "I might be short but I've got a big Enhada",
suffered a neck injury in the first half of the Wake Forest
game and did not return.

Nebraska - Star LB Bo Ruud, C Brett Byford, LB Blake
Lawrence and DL Brandon Johnson were all injured in the
Texas A&M game. All left. None returned to action.

Nevada - Starting LB Joshua Mauga suffered an MCL tear
and is probably lost for the season.

[pm530]

National Hockey League – Matchup Notes

NHL


Friday, October 26

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NHL Matchup Notes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday's key NHL matchup notes

Vancouver Canucks at Washington Capitals (-115, 5 1/2)

Roberto Luongo has won nine straight starts - three in a shootout - against the Caps, recording two shutouts and a 1.74 goals-against average during that span. Only the most recent appearance - Oct. 27, 2006 - came with the Canucks.


Montreal Canadiens at Carolina Hurricanes (-170, 6)

Carolina (6-1-3) has earned a point in all but one of its 10 contests and is atop the Southeast Division with 15 points - the same number it had through 10 games in 2005-06, when it won the Stanley Cup.


Buffalo Sabres at Florida Panthers (-125, 6)

The Sabres look to avoid opening a season with four straight road losses for the first time in seven years when they continue their five-game road trip against the Florida Panthers on Friday.


San Jose Sharks at Detroit Red Wings (-150, 5 1/2)

San Jose, which has scored three goals in the final period the last two games, has lost 11 of its last 15 trips to Joe Louis Arena, including two playoff games last season.


Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames (-140, 6)

Calgary is among the league leaders with 35 goals in 10 games despite none from Alex Tanguay before Wednesday. He does, however, have nine assists, ranking second on the team behind Iginla (10).

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[Udog]

NHL
Dunkel


Buffalo at Florida
Buffalo opened last season with 10 straight road wins, but has started 0-for-3 this season. The latest setback came on Wednesday as the Sabres lost at Carolina (6-2) and have now been outscored 13-6 in their three road losses. Florida won its third straight home game on Wednesday against Philadelphia (4-3) as Olli Jokinen had his first two-goal game of the season. Panther goalie Tomas Vokoun ran his record to 4-1-0 with a 2.37 GAA since October 11 and is 3-1-0 with a 1.75 GAA in his career against the Sabres. Florida looks like a good pick (-125) tonight according to Dunkel, which has the Panthers favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Florida (-125). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26

Game 51-52: Vancouver at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Vancouver 11.180; Washington 10.987
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-120); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Vancouver (+110); Under

Game 53-54: Montreal at Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 11.519; Carolina 12.848
Dunkel Line & Total: Carolina by 1 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Carolina (-165); 6
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (-165); Under

Game 55-56: Buffalo at Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 10.632; Florida 11.925
Dunkel Line & Total: Florida by 1 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Florida (-125); 6
Dunkel Pick: Florida (-125); Over

Game 57-58: San Jose at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: San Jose 11.477; Detroit 12.488
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-145); Under

Game 59-60: Colorado at Calgary
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado 11.874; Calgary 12.140
Dunkel Line & Total: Calgary by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Calgary (-135); 6
Dunkel Pick: Calgary (-135); Over

[Udog]

NHL
Long Sheet


Friday, October 26


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VANCOUVER (4-6-0-0, 8 pts.) at WASHINGTON (4-4-0-0, 8 pts.) - 10/26/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
VANCOUVER is 29-23 ATS (+54.6 Units) as a road underdog of a half goal or even on the puck line over the last 2 seasons.
VANCOUVER is 29-23 ATS (+54.6 Units) as a road favorite of a half goal or even on the puck line over the last 2 seasons.
VANCOUVER is 29-23 ATS (+54.6 Units) in road games against the puck line over the last 2 seasons.
VANCOUVER is 10-3 ATS (+13.2 Units) in road games on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
VANCOUVER is 17-5 ATS (+10.8 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 76-120 ATS (+203.7 Units) in non-conference games since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 11-24 ATS (-23.5 Units) in home games after playing 3 consecutive home games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
VANCOUVER is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
VANCOUVER is 1-0-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.0 Units)


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MONTREAL (4-2-0-2, 10 pts.) at CAROLINA (6-1-0-3, 15 pts.) - 10/26/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 61-55 ATS (+127.3 Units) in road games after a division game since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
CAROLINA is 12-4 (+5.5 Units) against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
CAROLINA is 12-4-0 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.5 Units)


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BUFFALO (3-5-0-0, 6 pts.) at FLORIDA (4-5-0-0, 8 pts.) - 10/26/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 13-3 ATS (+9.8 Units) in home games on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 59-43 ATS (+13.6 Units) as a road underdog of a half goal or even on the puck line over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 59-43 ATS (+13.6 Units) as a road favorite of a half goal or even on the puck line over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 59-43 ATS (+13.6 Units) in road games against the puck line over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 53-38 ATS (+12.6 Units) in a road game where where the total is 6 or more over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 57-28 ATS (+16.0 Units) first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 23-12 ATS (+10.5 Units) in road games after allowing 4 goals or more over the last 3 seasons.
BUFFALO is 129-84 ATS (+30.8 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.
FLORIDA is 218-307 ATS (+218.0 Units) as a favorite or even on the puck line since 1996.
FLORIDA is 187-215 ATS (+187.0 Units) in home games against the puck line since 1996.
FLORIDA is 78-120 ATS (-43.9 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.
FLORIDA is 178-204 ATS (+388.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
FLORIDA is 4-4 (+1.9 Units) against the spread versus BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
FLORIDA is 4-4-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.0 Units)


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SAN JOSE (5-3-0-1, 11 pts.) at DETROIT (7-2-0-1, 15 pts.) - 10/26/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN JOSE is 94-80 ATS (+179.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 9-6 (+3.3 Units) against the spread versus SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 9-6-0 straight up against SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.9 Units)


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COLORADO (5-4-0-0, 10 pts.) at CALGARY (5-3-0-2, 12 pts.) - 10/26/2007, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALGARY is 89-85 ATS (+209.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season since 1996.
COLORADO is 27-7 ATS (+16.3 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLORADO is 9-8 (+1.6 Units) against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
COLORADO is 9-8-0 straight up against CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
13 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+8.4 Units)


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[Udog]

NHL
Hot Lines


Friday, October 26


Ice picks: Friday's best NHL wagers

San Jose Sharks at Detroit Red Wings (-150, 5 ½)

The Red Wings lost starting goalie Dominik Hasek to hip injury on Thursday and will go with backup Chris Osgood as the new starter. Although Hasek will be missed, Osgood has been money this year going 3-0 with a 1.67 GAA in three starts. Detroit’s offense has been the real story this season, averaging three goals per game. The Sharks have lost the last four meetings with the Wings.

Pick: Red Wings –150


Montreal Canadiens at Carolina Hurricanes (-170, 6)

In the last 10 meetings between the Canadiens and Hurricanes, just one game has played over the total. Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward is yet to suffer a regulation loss, going 6-0-1-1 to start the season. The under is 12-4-1 in Carolina’s last 17 games on home ice.

Pick: Under 6


Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames (-140, 6)

Remember last year when oddsmakers were forced to set totals below five for Flames games? Well suddenly the Flames are one of the league’s top scoring teams and books have adjusted. Tonight will be the first time this season the Flames will get a total of six after seeing just four 6-goal totals all year long last year. The Flames and Avs both are averaging over three goals per game and have a combined 12-5 over/under record.

Pick: Over 6

[pm530]

National Hockey League - Short Sheet

NHL
Short Sheet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, October 26
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Vancouver at Washington, 7:05 ET
Vancouver: 17-5 SU vs. non-conference opponents
Washington: 8-18 SU as a home favorite of -200 or less

Montreal at Carolina, 7:05 ET
Montreal: 4-12 SU vs. Carolina
Carolina: 23-5 SU at home off BB wins

Buffalo at Florida, 7:35 ET
Buffalo: 39-19 Under away off a road loss by 3+ goals
Florida: 24-12 Under at home off an Over

San Jose at Detroit, 7:35 ET
San Jose: 20-8 Under off BB wins by 3+ goals
Detroit: 18-4 SU at home vs. San Jose

Colorado at Calgary, 9:05 ET
Colorado: 5-13 SU off a division win
Calgary: 38-20 Under off a home win

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[pm530]

Baseball Today - October 26

SCOREBOARD
Friday, Oct. 26
No games scheduled.

STARS

-Mike Lowell, Red Sox, hit a tiebreaking double in the fifth inning and Boston held on to defeat Colorado 2-1.

CURT-AIN CALL?

Curt Schilling allowed one run and four hits in 5 1-3 innings in Boston's 2-1 win over Colorado on Thursday to become the second 40-year-old starter to win a World Series game in what may have been his last start for the Red Sox. He improved to 11-2 with a 2.23 ERA in 19 postseason starts.

HEADED HOME

Down 0-2 in their first World Series, Colorado is heading home, where they have won 11 of their last 12 games and were an NL-best 51-31 during the season. The Rockies will have to reverse an ominous trend: Of the 50 previous teams that took a 2-0 lead in the World Series, 39 went on to win - including six straight and 12 of the last 13.

STREAKING SOX

Boston won their sixth straight World Series game, including a sweep of St. Louis in 2004, with a 2-1 victory over Colorado on Thursday.

SPEAKING

''This was the Pap-ajima show tonight. That was just phenomenal to watch.'' - Red Sox Game 2 starter Curt Schilling, on 3 2-3 innings of shutout relief from Hideki Okajima and Jonathan Papelbon that sealed a 2-1 Boston win on Thursday and put the Red Sox up 2-0 in the Series.

SEASONS
Oct. 26

1911 - Danny Murphy of Philadelphia had four hits as the Athletics beat the New York Giants 13-2 to win the World Series in six games. The A's put the game out of reach with a seven-run seventh inning.

1985 - Dane Iorg's two-run single and a disputed call by first base umpire Don Denkinger in the ninth inning gave the Kansas City Royals a 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals and tied the World Series after six games. St. Louis scored its run on a bloop single by Brian Harper in the eighth inning.

1997 - Edgar Renteria ended one of the most thrilling Game 7s, singling with two outs in the bottom of the 11th inning to give the Florida Marlins their first World Series championship with a 3-2 win over the Cleveland Indians. The 5-year-old Marlins became the youngest expansion team to win a championship.

1998 - The New York Mets announced All-Star catcher Mike Piazza agreed to a seven-year, $91 million contract, the richest deal in baseball history.

2000 - The New York Yankees became the first team in more than a quarter-century to win three straight World Series championships, beating the New York Mets 4-2. The Yankees matched the Oakland Athletics' three in a row from 1972-74, and won their fourth title in five years.

2005 - Jermaine Dye singled home the only run in the eighth, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Houston Astros 1-0 to win their first World Series title in 88 years. Chicago's sweep, its eighth straight postseason win and 16th in 17 games overall, made it the second team to go through the postseason 11-1 since the extra round of playoffs was added in 1995, joining the 1999 Yankees.

Today's birthday: Jesus Flores 23; Francisco Liriano 24; Mark Sweeney 38.

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