Friday Trends and Indexes 12/14

[pm530]

College Football – Write up

NCAAF
Write-up

2007-2008 Bowl Analysis

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Thursday, December 20

#1-- Poinsettia Bowl, 12/20, San Diego
Navy won its last four games, scoring 43.3 ppg, but since lost coach Johnson, who went to Ga Tech; this is fifth straight bowl for defensively-challenged Middie squad that lost to Delaware, a I-AA team, and gave up 62 at North Texas in 74-62 win. They threw total of of 26 passes in their last four games- in their four losses, they gave up 41-34-44-59 points. This game is only 19 days after they won their biggest game, against Army. Middies won Poinsettia bowl two years ago, beating Colorado St 51-30.

Utah won its last five bowls, winning last four years by scores of 17-0/35-7/38-10/25-13; they won seven of last eight games; in finale, rivalry game at BYU, they blew 10-6 lead in last minute to snap win streak. Utes were held to 7-12-0-10 points in its losses; Navy is incapable of holding them down like that. Utah, in their last four games, outscored foes 74-6 in first half- they won pair of games on this field in last few years, beating San Diego State by 51-28/38-7 scores in regular season meetings.

Not big on giving points in bowls, but with Johnson leaving, it is difficult to support unbalanced Middies here. Utah has one of best bowl records in country-- would lean to them in this game.

Friday, December 21

#2-- New Orleans Bowl, 12/21
Florida Atlantic is in its first-ever bowl, under former Louisville/ Miami coach Schnellenberger; he was 4-0 in bowls as coach at those schools, beating Alabama (34-7), Michigan State (18-7) at Louisville, after beating Virginia Tech (20-10), Nebraska (31-30) with the 'canes. The man can coach.

FAU is 6-0 this season when they allow less than 33 points and 3-2-1 vs spread as favorite; they scored 93 points in winning its last two games, after 59-20 loss at Florida left them at 5-5. Their last seven games went over the total. They had 18 starters back from LY, are fairly experienced group.

Memphis is playing 4th bowl in last five years, missing out last year; favorite covered their last three bowls, with Tigers taking two of three. They won this game four years ago, 27-17 against Sun Belt champ North Texas. Tigers won three in row, five of its last six games after 2-4 start- they lost first two games of season by combined total of six points; they're 4-2-1 vs spread as dog this season.

New Orleans Bowl has seen C-USA team win four of six vs Sun Belt foe, with Troy State winning LY vs Rice, only second win for SBC. Of last six Memphis wins, they won five by three or less points, so they know how to make plays in these big spots. This should be a good game, but damned if I know which side is right. Game is in dome, so take a shot at the over?

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[pm530]

College Football – Tips & Trends

NCAAF
Tips and Trends


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Tips and Trends
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(Note: Additional info should be available on subsequent updates)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20TH

San Diego Co. Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl - San Diego, CA
Utah vs. Navy (ESPN | 9 PM ET)

Utah has won 6 straight bowl games, the second-longest postseason winning streak in the nation.
Navy’s owns the top-ranked rushing offense in the country and faces the top scoring defense in the Mountain West. However, Air Force rolled 334 yards on the ground against the Utes in a 20-12 win back on September 8 th.
Navy is 10-1 ATS in its last 11 games vs. Mountain West opponents.
The OVER is 8-2 in Navy’s last 10 neutral site games.
The OVER is 9-3 in Navy’s last 12 non-conference games.


FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21ST

R&L Carriers Bowl - New Orleans, LA
Florida Atlantic vs. Memphis (ESPN2 | 8 PM ET)

Memphis won 5 of 6 to end the season following the tragic shooting death of DL Taylor Bradford.
The OVER is 8-2 in Florida Atlantic’s last 10 non-conference games.


SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22ND

PapJohns.com Bowl - Birmingham, AL
Cincinnati vs. Southern Miss (ESPN2 | 1 PM ET)

Tale of two coaches here as Cincinnati’s Brian Kelly is on the hot list for every major job in the country after turning the Bearcats into a Top 25 team while Southern Miss’ Jeff Bower resigned and will be coaching his last game for the Golden Eagles.
Cincinnati is 8-2-1 ATS in its last 11 games.


New Mexico Bowl - Albuquerque, NM
New Mexico vs. Nevada (ESPN | 4:30 PM ET)

This is essentially a home game for the Lobos, who were 5-1 SU in Albuquerque this year but only 2-3 ATS. In fact, New Mexico is just 6-13 ATS in its last 19 home games.
Nevada freshman QB Colin Kaepernick was 4-3 as a starter this season, but 3 of those losses were decided by a combined 7 points. The Wolfpack covered 2 of those 3 losses but dropped 5 of 6 ATS overall to end the season.
Nevada is 15-5 ATS in its last 20 games on grass.


Pioneer PureVision Las Vegas Bowl - Las Vegas, NV
BYU vs. UCLA (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

Second meeting between the teams after UCLA won 27-17 in Week 2. BYU has won 9 straight since then while the Bruins finished the season at 6-6 and fired head coach Karl Dorrell.
UCLA is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games vs. Mountain West opponents.
The UNDER is 9-2 in UCLA’s last 11 games vs. Mountain West opponents.


SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23RD

Sheraton Hawaii Bowl - Honolulu, HI
East Carolina vs. Boise State (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

East Carolina played only 2 ranked teams all season, losing to Virginia Tech and West Virginia by a combined score of 65-14.
The Broncos return to Hawaii for the second time in a month after losing to the Warriors 39-27 back on November 23 rd.
The UNDER is 8-2 in Boise State’s last 10 non-conference games.


WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26TH

Motor City Bowl - Detroit, MI
Purdue vs. Central Michigan (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

Insiders believe this is a classic power conference vs. mid-major “mismatch” where the public will likely assume the bigger, more physical Boilermakers will push the Chippewas around. However, Purdue dropped 3 straight to close out the regular season following a 5-0 start and finished a disappointing 3-5 in Big Ten play. Central Michigan won 4 of 5 before winning the MAC title game.
Central Michigan is 3-9-1 ATS in its last 13 games vs. Big Ten opponents.
Purdue is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games vs. MAC opponents.
The OVER is 7-1-1 in Central Michigan’s last 9 non-conference games.
The OVER is 7-1 in Central Michigan’s last 8 games overall.
The OVER is 7-3-1 in Purdue’s last 11 non-conference games.


THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27TH

Pacific Life Holiday Bowl - San Diego, CA
Texas vs. Arizona State (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

The OVER is 8-2 in Texas’ last 10 games as a favorite.
The OVER is 10-3 in Texas’ last 13 non-conference games.
The UNDER is 12-2 in Arizona State’s last 15 games overall.


FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28TH

Champs Sports Bowl - Orlando, FL
Boston College vs. Michigan State (ESPN | 5 PM ET)

Michigan State is 7-19 ATS in its last 26 games on grass.
Boston College is 15-6 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
The OVER is 7-2 in Boston College’s last 9 games as a favorite.


Texas Bowl - Houston, TX
TCU vs. Houston (NFL | 8 PM ET)

TCU is 5-16 ATS in its last 21 vs. Conference USA.
The UNDER is 8-2 in TCU’s last 10 games as a favorite.

Emerald Bowl - San Francisco, CA
Maryland vs. Oregon State (ESPN | 8:30 PM ET)


SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29TH

Meineke Car Care Bowl - Charlotte, NC
Wake Forest vs. Connecticut (ESPN | 1 PM ET)

UConn is 16-5 ATS in its last 21 games on grass.
UConn is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 overall.
The UNDER is 11-4 in UConn’s last 15 non-conference games.
The OVER is 7-2 in Wake Forest’s last 9 games.


AutoZona Liberty Bowl - Memphis, TN
Central Florida vs. Mississippi State (ESPN | 4:30 PM ET)

The UNDER is 8-3 in Mississippi State’s last 11 vs. Conference USA.


Alamo Bowl - San Antonio, TX
Penn State vs. Texas A&M (ESPN | 8 PM ET)




SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30TH

Petro Sun Independence Bowl - Shreveport, LA
Colorado vs. Alabama (ESPN | 8 PM ET)




MONDAY, DECEMBER 31ST

Bell Helicoptor Armed Forces Bowl - Fort Worth, TX
Air Force vs. California (ESPN | 12:30 PM ET)

While Air Force has won six of its last seven games, the game they lost, 34-31 to New Mexico, was the only team of the bunch to finish the season with a winning record. Going back even farther, the last win Air Force had over a winning team was on September 13th, when they beat Texas Christian, 20-17.
Although the Bears have lost five of their last six games, it gives the team a chance to finish on an up note, and begin laying the foundation for next season. The game also marks a homecoming for the two Golden Bears from the Dallas area, Justin Forsett and Brock Mansion.
Motivation could again be a huge factor, as Cal lost $10 in slipping from Rose Bowl to Holiday Bowl and got blown out 45-31 by Texas Tech as an 11-point favorite back in 2004.
Cal is 2-12 ATS in its last 14 games on grass.
The OVER is 13-6 in Air Force’s last 19 games as an underdog.


Sun Bowl - El Paso, TX
South Florida vs. Oregon (CBS | 2 PM ET)

Oregon is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games on turf.
South Florida is 14-6 ATS in its last 20 games overall.
The OVER is 7-3 in Oregon’s last 10 non-conference games.


Humanitarian Bowl - Boise, ID
Georgia Tech vs. Fresno State (ESPN2 | 2 PM ET)

Fresno State is 7-19 ATS in its last 26 games overall.
The OVER is 10-4 in Fresno’s last 14 games as an underdog.
The OVER is 6-2 in Fresno’s last 8 games on turf.


Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl - Nashville, TN
Kentucky vs. Florida State (ESPN | 4 PM ET)




Chick-fil-A Bowl - Atlanta, GA
Auburn vs. Clemson (ESPN | 7:30 PM ET)

Auburn is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games overall.
Clemson is 3-7 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
The UNDER is 15-5 in Auburn’s last 20 games as an underdog.
The UNDER is 11-5 in Clemson’s last 16 non-conference games.


Insight Bowl - Tempe, AZ
Indiana vs. Oklahoma State (NFL | TBA)

Indiana is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games on grass.
The OVER is 16-7 in Indiana’s last 23 games as an underdog.
The OVER is 7-2 in Oklahoma State’s last 9 games as a favorite.


TUESDAY, JANUARY 1ST

Outback Bowl - Tampa Bay, FL
Wisconsin vs. Tennessee (ESPN | 11 AM ET)

Wisconsin is 2-6 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Wisconsin is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games overall.


AT&T Cotton Bowl - Dallas, TX
Missouri vs. Arkansas (FOX | 11:30 AM ET)

Missouri is 8-2 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Missouri is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games overall.
The OVER is 8-2 in Arkansas’ last 10 non-conference games.
The OVER is 10-4 in Missouri’s last 14 games overall.


Gator Bowl - Jacksonville, FL
Virginia vs. Texas Tech (CBS | 1 PM ET)

The UNDER is 11-5-1 in Virginia’s last 17 games overall.


Capital One Bowl - Orlando, FL
Michigan vs. Florida (ABC | 1 PM ET)

The OVER is 8-1 in Michigan’s last 9 Bowl games.
The UNDER is 9-4 in Florida’s last 13 non-conference games.

Rose Bowl - Pasadena, CA
USC vs. Illinois (ABC | 4:30 PM ET)

Insiders believe no team will benefit more from the extra time off than the Trojans, who were also beat up at the end of last season before beating Michigan 32-18 in the Rose Bowl. Injuries ultimately hurt USC’s shot at the national championship, as both of the team’s losses happened with backup QB Mark Sanchez under center. Many considered the Trojans the most dangerous team in the country at the end of the season with the early losses costing them a BCS spot.
Illinois is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games on grass.
Illinois is 10-3 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
The UNDER is 10-1 in Illinois’ last 11 games on grass.
The UNDER is 16-5 in USC’s last 21 games overall.

Allstate Sugar Bowl - New Orleans, LA
Hawaii vs. Georgia (FOX | 8:30 PM ET)

Oddsmakers opened Hawaii at +8 in this game after Boise State’s stunning win over Oklahoma last year in the Fiesta Bowl, but the public quickly bet this number up to 11 points in favor of Georgia. Many still believe Hawaii’s schedule that produced an unbeaten season was too soft and lacked a legitimate power conference opponent like the Bulldogs.
Georgia likely won’t be overconfident in this game after underestimating West Virginia in the 2006 Sugar Bowl. The Bulldogs were blown out by the Mountaineers in the first half before a furious rally came up short. They realize this is a statement game for them, which could lead to a preseason #1 ranking next year with an impressive victory.
Two very different offenses will take the field in New Orleans, as Georgia would love to control the clock with a power running game while Hawaii looks to light up the scoreboard with a pass-happy attack led by Heisman Trophy contender Colt Brennan. Some insiders think the Bulldogs will get a major test defensively since the closest thing to Hawaii’s offense in the SEC is Kentucky.
Hawaii is 17-6 ATS in its last 23 games on turf.
Hawaii is 7-18 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
The OVER is 23-9-1 in Hawaii’s last 33 games on turf.


WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2ND

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl - Glendale, AZ
Oklahoma vs. West Virginia (FOX | 8 PM ET)

Oklahoma played in this game a year ago and saw an underrated Boise State team pull off a shocking upset. The Sooners have had to listen to how they “let themselves get beat” by the Broncos every day since then and just got done beating a Missouri team that said “they beat themselves” in the first meeting. Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops takes revenge very seriously, so you can bet he will have his team fired up for an explosive West Virginia team with a similar run-oriented attack as Boise.
West Virginia is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games on grass.
West Virginia is 3-7 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
The OVER is 7-1 in Oklahoma’s last 8 non-conference games.
The UNDER is 6-1 in Oklahoma’s last 8 Bowl games.
The UNDER is 7-3 in West Virginia’s last 10 games overall.


THURSDAY, JANUARY 3RD

FedEx Orange Bowl - Miami, FL
Virginia Tech vs. Kansas (FOX | 8 PM ET)

Kansas is 19-7 ATS in its last 26 games overall.
The OVER is 6-2 in Kansas’ last 8 games as an underdog.
The OVER is 14-6 in Kansas’ last 20 non-conference games.


SATURDAY, JANUARY 5TH

International Bowl - Toronto, ON
Rutgers vs. Ball State (ESPN2 | 12 PM ET)

Ball State is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games overall.
Rutgers is 7-3 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.


SUNDAY, JANUARY 6TH

GMAC Bowl - Mobile, AL
Tulsa vs. Bowling Green (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

Tulsa is 2-9 ATS in its last 11 games overall.
The UNDER is 9-4 in Bowling Green’s last 13 games on grass.
The OVER is 9-4 in Bowling Green’s last 13 non-conference games.


MONDAY, JANUARY 7TH

BCS National Championship - New Orleans, LA
Ohio State vs. Louisiana State (FOX | 8 PM ET)

Last year, the extended time off (51 days) between games really cooled off the previously unbeaten Buckeyes, and insiders feel that same problem will recur against the SEC’s best team. The Tigers have the most NFL talent on their roster and will be able to make good use of the break to heal their wounds, just like USC did in last year’s Rose Bowl. That’s bad news for the Buckeyes and could very well lead to another ugly title game.
Ohio State is 6-2 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Ohio State is 23-8 ATS in its last 31 games overall.
LSU is 8-2-1 ATS in its last 11 games on turf.
LSU is 2-7-1 ATS in its last 10 games overall.
Underdog is 6-3 SU in BCS title games, winning 4 of last 5.

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[pm530]

National Basketball Association - Dunkel Index

NBA
Dunkel Index

Utah at Portland
The Jazz have hit a rough stretch of road games and the result has not been good as Utah has lost four straight away from home and five straight overall. It doesn't look to get easier tonight against a Portland team that has won five straight, including the last two over Utah and Golden State. In a rematch with the Jazz, the Blazers look like a good home underdog pick (+5) according to Dunkel, which has Portland favored straight up by 5. Dunkel Pick: Portland (+5). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

Game 701-702: Toronto at Indiana
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 121.830; Indiana 120.300
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1 1/2; 211 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Indiana by 2; 205
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (+2); Over

Game 703-704: Orlando at Charlotte
Dunkel Ratings: Orlando 124.680; Charlotte 113.310
Dunkel Line & Total: Orlando by 11 1/2; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Orlando by 5; 198
Dunkel Pick: Orlando (-5); Under

Game 705-706: Sacramento at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Sacramento 115.789; Philadelphia 119.428
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 3 1/2; 193 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia by 5; 188
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (+5); Over

Game 707-708: Milwaukee at Boston
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee 109.509; Boston 128.364
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 19; 186
Vegas Line & Total: Boston by 12 1/2; 189
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-12 1/2); Under

Game 709-710: Atlanta at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 114.340; Detroit 126.924
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 12 1/2; 178
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit by 10; 182 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-10); Under

Game 711-712: Cleveland at New Jersey
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 113.818; New Jersey 111.512
Dunkel Line & Total: Cleveland by 2 1/2; 181
Vegas Line & Total: Cleveland by 2; 188 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-2); Under

Game 713-714: Seattle at Minnesota
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 111.782; Minnesota 111.345
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 195 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota by 2; 198
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (+2); Under

Game 715-716: LA Clippers at Memphis
Dunkel Ratings: LA Clippers 112.148; Memphis 115.836
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 3 1/2; 201
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 6; 203 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Clippers (+6); Under

Game 717-718: New Orleans at Dallas
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 115.269; Dallas 118.535
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 3 1/2; 199 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 719-720: New York at Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: New York 108.376; Chicago 123.601
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 15 1/2; 192 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 9; 190 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-9); Over

Game 721-722: Utah at Portland
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 117.001; Portland 122.082
Dunkel Line & Total: Portland by 5; 203
Vegas Line & Total: Utah by 5; 199
Dunkel Pick: Portland (+5); Over

Game 723-724: LA Lakers at Golden State
Dunkel Ratings: LA Lakers 119.241; Golden State 130.380
Dunkel Line & Total: Golden State by 11; 230
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

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[pm530]

National Basketball Association – Write up

NBA
Write-up


Friday, December 14

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Today's NBA analysis

Hot Teams
-- Pacers covered eight of their last eleven games. Raptors won last three games, covered ten of last thirteen.
-- 76ers won last four games, by 11-28-12-4 points.
-- Celtics won their last seven games (5-2 vs spread).
-- Hawks won four of their last five road games. Pistons are 7-2 in their last nine games overall.
-- Seattle covered four of last five, is 4-3 SU in last seven.
-- Bulls are 5-3 in last eight games, after a 2-10 start.
-- Blazers won, covered last five games; they're 8-3 at home.
-- Lakers won last four games, by 21-4-10-5 points. Warriors are 12-4 in last 16 games, 3-3 last six (6-3 vs spread last 9 at home).

Cold Teams
-- Magic lost last three games, scoring 94 ppg. Bobcats are 2-8 in their last ten games (0-7 vs spread in last seven).
-- Kings are 0-9 on road, but covered last three away games.
-- Bucks lost eight of last ten games (3-8-1 vs spread on road).
-- Cavaliers lost six of last seven games, but won with Lebron (finger) back in lineup for first time, in their last game. Nets are 0-4 since winnig in Cleveland 10 days ago, scoring 88.3 ppg.
-- Minnesota lost seven of its last eight games.
-- Grizzlies lost last five games (1-4 vs the spread). Clippers lost nine of last eleven games, they're 4-13 vs spread in their last 17 games, but they did cover last three on road.
-- Hornets are 2-5 vs spread in game following a SU loss. Mavs are 5-7 in last 12 games (3-9 vs spread), and are 1-6 vs spread in their last seven home games.
-- Knicks lost last four games, by 11-28-10-7 points.
-- Jazz lost last five games, by 10-6-8-13-5 points.

Series Records
-- Home side won last four Indiana-Toronto games.
-- Home side won last five Orlando-Charlotte games.
-- Home side won both Sacramento-Philly games last season.
-- Celtics, Bucks split four games LY (1-1 in each arena).
-- Pistons won four of last five vs Atlanta, beating Hawks this year by 92-91/106-95 scores.
-- Home side won eight of last ten Cavalier-Net games.
-- Sonics won three of four against Minnesota LY.
-- Clippers were 3-0 vs Memphis LY, winning by 15-21-7 pts.
-- Hornets beat Dallas 112-108 OT Dec 1, their first win in their last five tries against the Mavericks.
-- Home side won four of last five New York-Chicago games.
-- Home side won four of last five Utah-Portland games.
-- Warriors lost last five games vs Lakers, by 12-5-17-2-10 pts.

Totals
-- Last four Indiana games all went over the total.
-- Over is 8-3 in last eleven Charlotte games.
-- Four of last five Philly games went over the total, but Kings' last four games all stayed under.
-- Under is 5-2 in last seven Milwaukee games.
-- Under is 10-2 in last dozen Atlanta games, 2-6 in Detroit's last eight games.
-- Last three Cleveland games went over the total.
-- Three of last four Seattle games went over the total.
-- Under is 10-3 in Clippers' last thirteen games.
-- Under is 9-3 in Hornets' last dozen games.
-- Five of last seven Chicago games went over the total.
-- Under is 7-3 in last ten Portland games, but over is 8-2 in last ten Utah games.
-- Under is 6-3 in Warriors' last nine games.

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[pm530]

National Basketball Association - Tips & Trends

NBA


Friday, December 14

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Tips and Trends
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Sacramento Kings at Philadelphia 76ers (7 PM ET)

Kings are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 games overall.
76ers are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 games following an ATS loss.
The UNDER is 9-4 ATS in the last 13 meetings.


Los Angeles Clippers at Memphis Grizzlies (8 PM ET)

Clippers are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games against the Southwest Division.
Grizzlies are 4-10-2 ATS in their last 16 Friday games.
The favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.


Cleveland Cavaliers at New Jersey Nets (8 PM ET)

Cavaliers are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games against a losing team.
Cavaliers are 5-16 ATS in the last 21 meetings.
Nets are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games against a losing road team.


Seattle SuperSonics at Minnesota Timberwolves (8 PM ET)

Sonics are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 road games against a losing home team.
Sonics are 14-6-2 ATS in the last 22 meetings.
Timberwolves are 18-38 ATS in their last 56 home games.


Atlanta Hawks at Detroit Pistons (8 PM ET)

Hawks are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games against a winning home team.
Pistons are 3-11 ATS in their last 14 games when playing on 1 days rest.
The underdog is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings.


Orlando Magic at Charlotte Bobcats (ESPN | 8 PM ET)

Magic are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games after allowing 100+ points.
Bobcats are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 games overall.
The home team is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings.


New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls (8:30 PM ET)

Knicks are 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games after scoring 100+ points.
Bulls are 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games against the Atlantic Division.
The UNDER is 4-0 in the last four meetings.


Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors (ESPN | 10:30 PM ET)

Lakers are 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
Warriors are 40-19-1 ATS in their last 60 games when playing on 1 days rest.
The OVER is 11-1 in the last 12 meetings in Golden State.

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[pm530]

National Basketball Association – Hot Lines

NBA
Hot Lines


Friday, December 14

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Pick 'n' roll: Friday's best NBA bets
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Sacramento Kings at Philadelphia 76ers (-5, 188)

Don’t jump on the 76ers’ bandwagon just yet.

Philadelphia’s most recent wins were against the road-weary Rockets, lowly Timberwolves and last-place Knicks.

The Kings, meanwhile, outlasted the Bucks on Monday and covered the spread in Boston on Wednesday. Sacramento has covered the spread in its last three outside California.

It is also 5-2 against the spread (ATS) in its last seven trips to Philadelphia.

Pick: Kings +5


Orlando Magic at Charlotte Bobcats (+5, 197 1/2)

There has been nothing magical about Orlando lately.

The Magic have lost three straight, including Wednesday’s loss in Milwaukee, and failed to cover the spread in that stretch.

The Bobcats have been even worse. They’ve lost eight of their last 10 and have failed to cover the spread in seven straight. That includes a 105-92 loss to the Magic on Nov. 23.

Orlando is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 versus the Eastern Conference.

Pick: Magic -5


Toronto Raptors at Indiana Pacers (-1 1/2, 204 1/2)

No T.J. Ford, no problem.

Toronto trounced the Mavericks on Wednesday without their injured point guard. Ford is out for at least a week after hitting his head on the floor Tuesday against the Hawks.

Raptors backup point guard Jose Calderon filled in nicely for the injured starter, dishing seven assists and scoring 12 points against Dallas.

Toronto has won three straight, including Tuesday’s triumph in Georgia. It has also covered the spread in seven of its last 10.

Pick: Raptors -1 1/2


Milwaukee Bucks at Boston Celtics (-12 1/2, 189)

The Celtics have had no trouble winning at the TD Banknorth Garden. Boston is a league-leading 11-0 straight up (SU) and 8-3 ATS in New England.

The Bucks, conversely, are a meager 2-10 SU and 4-8 ATS on the road and lost on Monday in Sacramento.

Boston is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six versus the Eastern Conference.

Pick: Celtics -12 1/2


Cleveland Cavaliers at New Jersey Nets (+2, 188)

He’s back.

LeBron James came off the bench Tuesday for the first time in his career and scored 17 points, leading the slumping Cavaliers to a victory over the Pacers.

Tuesday’s triumph ended a six-game losing streak that started when King James sprained his finger in a Nov. 28 setback to the Pistons.

The Cavs’ Anderson Varejao also made his season debut Tuesday after a lengthy contract holdout. Varejao tallied six points and nine rebounds against the Pacers.

Pick: Cavaliers -2


Atlanta Hawks at Detroit Pistons (-10, 183)

The Pistons have been thrashing opponents in the Motor City recently.

Detroit outscored its last three opponents (excluding the rival Chicago Bulls) by a combined 77 points, including Sunday’s 104-85 victory over the Bobcats.

The Pistons also tamed the Hawks 106-95 on Dec. 4 in the Peach State, their eighth win in 10 tilts with Atlanta dating back to 2005.

Detroit is 7-1-1 ATS in its last nine overall.

Pick: Pistons -10


Los Angeles Clippers at Memphis Grizzlies (-5 1/2, 203 1/2)

Memphis desperately needs a win against the lowly Clippers before it starts next week’s tough schedule against the Magic, Warriors, Spurs and Pistons.

L.A., meanwhile, has lost eight of its last 10, including a loss to the struggling Bobcats. It covered the spread just three times in that span.

Clippers backup point guard Quinton Ross missed Wednesday’s loss. Ross bruised his back against the Nets and is questionable for Friday. He is averaging a modest four points and two rebounds.

Pick: Memphis -5 1/2


Seattle SuperSonics at Minnesota Timberwolves (-2 1/2, 198)

Minnesota surged past the second-place Suns last Saturday in Minneapolis. It should produce the same outcome Friday against the SuperSonics.

Timberwolves leading scorer Al Jefferson amassed a season-high 32 points and 20 rebounds against Phoenix. Big Al is averaging more than 21 points and 12 rebounds in his last four contests and has led Minnesota to a notable a 3-1 ATS mark in that stretch.

The home team is 6-1-1 ATS in the last eight meetings between Seattle and Minny.

Pick: Timberwolves -2 1/2


New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls (-9 1/2, 190)

New York is in for a world of hurt Friday in the Second City.

Chicago lost to the Pacers 117-102 on Wednesday and will be looking to avenge that setback against the last-place Knicks.

The Bulls also hammered the SuperSonics 123-96 on Tuesday, a day after Seattle outlasted the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last four matchups between the Knicks and Bulls.

Pick: Bulls -9 1/2


New Orleans Hornets at Dallas Mavericks (off)

Nothing lifts a person’s spirits like a home-cooked meal. Hopefully, for the Mavericks, that also applies to NBA players.

Dallas, coming off an embarrassing road loss to the Raptors, is a 9-2 in the Big D.

New Orleans upset the Mavericks 112-108 on Dec. 1 in the Big Easy. Dallas, though, has covered the spread in four of its last six against New Orleans.

Dallas is 36-17-1 ATS in its last 54 versus the NBA Southwest.

Pick: Mavericks


Utah Jazz at Portland Trail Blazers (+4 1/2, 199)

The Jazz may want to consider changing their nickname to the Blues after their current road trip.

Utah is winless in its last five, including a loss to the Blazers. It has also failed to cover the spread in that stretch and is 5-8 ATS outside Salt Lake so far this season.

The Jazz are 1-4 ATS in their last five versus the Trail Blazers. They are also 2-5 ATS in their last seven tilts at the Rose Garden.

Pick: Blazers +4 1/2


Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors (off)

It was obvious in the Lakers’ 123-110 triumph over the Warriors last Sunday that Kobe Bryant can match Golden State’s firepower.

Bryant tallied 28 points against the high-scoring Warriors. Los Angeles is also the fifth-highest scoring club in the NBA, averaging more than 107 points.

L.A. has covered the spread in five of its last seven tilts with the Warriors.

Pick: Lakers

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[pm530]

National Basketball Association – Matchup Notes

NBA
Betting Matchup Notes


Friday, December 14

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Today's key NBA betting matchup notes
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Sacramento Kings at Philadelphia 76ers

Philadelphia has won three of the last four meetings with the Kings after losing the previous nine games in the interconference series.


Orlando Magic at Charlotte Bobcats

The Magic are 1-5 all-time at Charlotte Bobcats Arena despite averaging 100 points per game there.


Toronto Raptors at Indiana Pacers

Indiana has won eight of its last 10 home games against Toronto.


Milwaukee Bucks at Boston Celtics

These teams split last season's four-game series, with each club winning once on the other's home floor.


Cleveland Cavaliers at New Jersey Nets

The Nets have won nine of 10 against the Cavaliers at home, but just two of the last six meetings overall in the series.


Atlanta Hawks at Detroit Pistons

The Pistons (15-7) have won six straight at home against Atlanta (10-11) and 23 of the last 26 meetings at the Palace of Auburn Hills, where Detroit is 7-2 this year.


L.A. Clippers at Memphis Grizzlies

The Clippers won all three meetings with the Grizzlies last season after losing 11 of the previous 13.


Seattle SuperSonics at Minnesota Timberwolves

The Sonics have taken three consecutive matchups and four of the last five from Minnesota.


New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls

The Knicks have dropped six straight and 11 of 12 road games against the Bulls (7-13).


New Orleans Hornets at Dallas Mavericks

The Mavericks are 9-2 in Dallas, where the Hornets have dropped 11 straight visits.


Utah Jazz at Portland Trail Blazers

Utah has lost five of its last seven visits to Portland.


L.A. Lakers at Golden State Warriors

Golden State (12-10) has not beaten Los Angeles since a 126-99 win on April 18, 2005, in the final week of that season. The Warriors have also lost 14 of the last 15 meetings between the teams.

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[pm530]

College Basketball - Dunkel Index

NCAAB
Dunkel Index

Drake at Iowa
Todd Lickliter's young Hawkeye team has had a tough time at the outset, dropping five of their last seven, including a 56-47 decision to Iowa State last week. That same Cyclone team lost to Drake just a few days before by 35. The Bulldogs (8-1) are thriving under new coach Keno Davis, who replaced his father, Tom Davis, in the off-season. Davis has one of the best backcourts in the Missouri Valley in Josh Young (17.8 ppg) and Leonard Houston (16.6 ppg), and a deep bench with 10 players averaging over 10 minutes per game. Drake looks like a good pick (-2 1/2) in this one according to Dunkel, which has the Bulldogs favored by 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Drake (-2 1/2). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

Game 725-726: Drake at Iowa
Dunkel Ratings: Drake 65.505; Iowa 56.962
Dunkel Line: Drake by 8 1/2
Vegas Line: Drake by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Drake (-2 1/2)

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[pm530]

College Basketball – Long Sheet

NCAAB
Long Sheet


Friday, December 14

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DRAKE (8 - 1) at IOWA (6 - 5) - 12/14/2007, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DRAKE is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
IOWA is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in all games this season.
IOWA is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in all lined games this season.
IOWA is 57-82 ATS (-33.2 Units) in all home games since 1997.
IOWA is 57-82 ATS (-33.2 Units) in home lined games since 1997.
IOWA is 10-27 ATS (-19.7 Units) when playing with 5 or 6 days rest since 1997.
IOWA is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
IOWA is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in non-conference games this season.

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

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[pm530]

College Basketball – Write up

NCAAB
Write-up


Friday, December 14

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Friday's College Basketball

Game of the Night
Drake (-3) hammered Iowa 75-59 LY; Bulldogs are 7-1 this year, with only loss 77-66 to pretty good St Mary's club- they waxed Iowa State by 35 nine days ago, and also beat Duquesne. Iowa is 2-4 in last six games after 4-0 start; they lost at home to Wake Forest and UL-Monroe, and lost 56-47 at Iowa State in their last game Saturday. Is Drake the best team in Iowa this season?

Rest of card
-- There are no other lined games tonight.

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[pm530]

College Basketball – Matchup Notes

NCAAB


Friday, December 14

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Today's key NCAAB betting matchup notes
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Hartford Hawks at Villanova Wildcats

The Wildcats have won 21 of their last 22 home games against non-conference opponents, including seven straight. They have won their three home games this season by an average margin of 18 points.

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[pm530]

National Hockey League - Dunkel Index

NHL
Dunkel Index

Calgary at Carolina
The Hurricanes have looked ugly in back-to-back losses to Detroit and Ottawa in which they gave up 11 goals. That porous defense could have trouble tonight against a Calgary team that scored nine goals last night in win over Tampa Bay. The Flames look like a good underdog pick (+145) according to Dunkel, which has Calgary favored straight up by 1. Dunkel Pick: Calgary (+145). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14

Game 1-2: Calgary at Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Calgary 11.612; Carolina 10.672
Dunkel Line & Total: Calgary by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Carolina (-165); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Calgary (+145); Over

Game 3-4: Buffalo at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 11.231; Washington 11.813
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Buffalo (-115); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-105); Over

Game 5-6: Toronto at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 11.949; Atlanta 10.833
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Atlanta (-125); 6
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (+105); Over

Game 7-8: Minnesota at Anaheim
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 10.471; Anaheim 11.345
Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 1; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Anaheim (-150); 5
Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (-150); Under

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[pm530]

National Hockey League – Write up

NHL
Write-up


Friday, December 14

Today's NHL analysis

Hot Teams
-- Flames won last three games: 3-2/2-1/9-6.
-- Washington won its last three games, scoring 14 goals.
-- Maple Leafs won five of their last six games.

Cold Teams
-- Carolina lost six of its last nine games.
-- Sabres lost six of their last nine road games.
-- Thrashers lost six of last nine games (3-6/3-5 in last two).
-- Ducks are just 4-5 in their last nine home games. Minnesota lost three of last four games, scoring total of four goals.

Series Records
-- Hurricanes lost 3-0 at Saddledome LY, in last series meeting.
-- Sabres won five in row, eight of last nine against the Caps.
-- Thrashers won four of last five against Toronto.
-- Home side is 11-3 in last 14 Minnesota-Anaheim games.

Totals
-- Four of last five Calgary games stayed under (they won 9-6 in Tampa last night).
-- Five of last seven Buffalo games went over the total.
-- Last four Atlanta games all went over the total.
-- Over is 3-0-1 in last four Anaheim games, but under is 7-1-2 in last ten Duck-Wild games.

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[pm530]

National Hockey League - Matchup Notes

NHL


Friday, December 14

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Today's key NHL betting matchup notes
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Buffalo Sabres at Washington Capitals (-110, 5 1/2)

Buffalo has won five straight and 12 of the last 14 meetings against Washington. The Sabres are 2-0 in this season's series.


Calgary Flames at Carolina Hurricanes (-160, 5 1/2)

The Flames are 3-1-0 with one tie in their last five overall meetings with the Hurricanes.


Toronto Maple Leafs at Atlanta Thrashers (-120, 6)

The Thrashers had won four straight against the Maple Leafs before that streak ended on Nov. 29.


Minnesota Wild at Anaheim Ducks (-150, 5)

The Wild have lost three of four in Anaheim, but won 2-0 there on Oct. 14 in the meeting between the teams this season.

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[Udog]

NHL
Hot Lines


Ice picks: Friday's best NHL wagers


Buffalo Sabres at Washington Capitals (-110, 5 1/2)

The Caps are on a hot streak right now but that will be in serious jeopardy when they face Buffalo tonight. The Sabres have dominated the Capitals in recent years winning five straight and 12 of the last 14 matchups between the two teams. Goalie Ryan Miller is 6-1 with a 2.68 GAA against Washington in his career including both victories over the Caps this season.

Pick: Sabres -110


Toronto Maple Leafs at Atlanta Thrashers (-120, 6)

Both the Leafs and Thrashers have displayed explosive offenses this season with the Thrashers averaging 2.73 goals per game and the Leafs an impressive 3.13. Toronto enters the game winner of five of their last six games and has scored three goals or more in each of the victories. Atlanta has scored 14 goals in their last four but unfortunately for Thrashers backers, they are giving up just as many goals as they score. The Thrash have lost back-to-back games and they've played over the total in four straight.

Pick: over 5 1/2


Minnesota Wild at Anaheim Ducks (-130, 5)

When it comes to scoring goals lately, the Wild are like Andy Stitzer as the 40-Year-Old Virgin. Minnesota enters tonight's game with a measly four goals in its last four games and hasn't put up more than three goals in its last seven contests. The lack of offensive production has led to a fortune for under bettors. In the Wild's last seven games they have played under the total four times with the other three games resulting in pushes.

Pick: under five