Friday Trends and Indexes 12/28

[pm530]

Trends and Indexes
Friday, December 28

Good Luck on day #362 of 2007!

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

NCAA FOOTBALL:
For trends & indexes for all the NCAA Bowl Games, please look for separate thread:
“2007-2008 BOWL SEASON TREND FACTORS AND INDEXES”

NFL info will be posted in this thread.

[pm530]

Six-pack for Friday

-- Saturday night's Patriot-Giant game will be first simulcast of an NFL game since Super Bowl I.

-- UConn covered just four of last 15 as a road underdog.

-- Fresno State won last two bowls against ACC teams; in 2002, they beat Georgia Tech 30-21; two years later, Fresno beat Virginia 37-34 in same bowl they're in now, at Boise.

-- Mississippi State sold 30,000+ tickets for Liberty Bowl; Central Florida struggled to sell 10,000.

-- Stu Nahan, the play-by-play announcer in Rocky movies, died this week at age of 81. He was an announcer in the LA area in real life. Seemed to be a very popular man.

-- I bought a new down jacket last week, to combat the cold weather. It is obvious the economy is struggling; even the price of down is up.

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

[pm530]

Friday's List of 13: One sentence on every NFL team

13) A one-sentence recap of every NFL team’s season......

Seahawks— Benefitting from playing in a lousy division.

Cardinals— Should have made the playoffs this season. Rams— Need ton of help on offensive line, more depth for special teams.

49ers—Might have fourth OC in four seasons next year.

Buccaneers—Garcia proves doubters wrong once again.

Saints—Offensive juggernaut, but they can’t stop anyone.

Panthers—Firing John Fox would create more problems than it fixed.

Falcons—One good thing; ’08 can’t be any worse for them than ’07 was.

Packers—WR Jennings has caught awful lot of long TD passes in big spots.

Vikings—Will be playoff team, once the young QB matures.

Bears—Started 21 different QB’s since last time Favre didn’t start a game.

Lions—6-2 at one point, but turned into yet another mishap in Millen era.

Cowboys—Need bye week to heal injuries at critical places.

Giants—This just in: Eli isn’t as good as his brother Peyton. Deal with it.

Redskins—Playing best ball with QB who hadn’t started game in a decade.

Eagles-- Time for Donovan McNabb to go elsewhere. It will be best thing for all concerned.

Patriots—Four wins away from being best team ever.

Jets—Other than Devin Hester, Washington is best K/P returner in game.

Bills— Improved a lot this year, but this division is getting harder.

Dolphins—Nightmare of season ends with Fish catching a big Tuna.

Steelers— With former WR as coach, became more of a passing team.

Browns—Terrific year, but they tossed away great chance to make playoffs.

Bengals—Erratic as hell; at times, seems like their effort is lacking.

Ravens—Aging team that uses different QB every year.

Colts—Lurking in shadows, waiting for January 20, Foxboro.

Jaguars—Better than half the teams that won their division.

Titans—Jeff Fisher is most underrated coach in league.

Texans—Would be a playoff team in the NFC.

Chargers—Will 11-5 Chargers be more dangerous in playoffs than 14-2 Chargers were?

Broncos—Not sure about Cutler, when players on division rivals are laughing at him on sidelines.

Raiders— JaMarcus Russell has 22 months (length of Vick’s jail sentence) to prove he deserves to be Oakland’s QB at start of next decade.

Chiefs—Who thought hiring Herm Edwards was a good idea? Anyone? Hands? Anyone?

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

[pm530]

National Football League - Dunkel Index

NFL
Dunkel Index


Week 17

New England at NY Giants
While both teams are locked into their respective playoff spots, the Patriots still have plenty to play for both on the individual front for Tom Brady (single-season TD passing record) and Randy Moss (single-season TD receiving record), and the team front (perfect season). The Giants are not likely to play much of the game at full strength. But even with all their starters in the lineup, they are the only team to make the playoffs with a losing record at home (3-4). New England should have just enough to cover (-14 1/2) in this one according to Dunkel, which has the Patriots favored by 15 1/2. Dunkel Pick: New England (-14 1/2). Here are all of this week's picks.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29

Game 411-412: New England at NY Giants
Dunkel Ratings: New England 148.567; NY Giants 133.003
Dunkel Line: New England by 15 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: New England by 14 1/2; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New England (-14 1/2); Under


SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

Game 419-420: Buffalo at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 124.199; Philadelphia 138.979
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 14 1/2; 43
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 7 1/2; 38
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-7 1/2); Over

Game 421-422: Carolina at Tampa Bay
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 126.150; Tampa Bay 129.977
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 3 1/2; 40
Vegas Line: Carolina by 3; 36
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+3); Over

Game 423-424: Cincinnati at Miami
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati 127.905; Miami 125.210
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 2 1/2; 37
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 3; 46 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (+3); Under

Game 425-426: Dallas at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 133.166; Washington 138.431
Dunkel Line: Washington by 7 1/2; 41
Vegas Line: Washington by 9; 39 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+9); Over

Game 427-428: Detroit at Green Bay
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 128.186; Green Bay 134.867
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 6 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 3; 38
Dunkel Pick: Green Bay (-3); Over

Game 429-430: Jacksonville at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Jacksonville 136.049; Houston 134.172
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville by 2; 44
Vegas Line: Houston by 7; 41
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (+7); Over

Game 431-432: New Orleans at Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 129.938; Chicago 134.089
Dunkel Line: Chicago by 4; 43
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 2; 40 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+2); Over

Game 433-434: Pittsburgh at Baltimore
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 134.931; Baltimore 128.869
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 6; 40
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 3 1/2; 35 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-3 1/2); Over

Game 435-436: Seattle at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 129.879; Atlanta 124.985
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 5; 42
Vegas Line: Atlanta by 2 1/2; 38
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (+2 1/2); Over

Game 437-438: San Francisco at Cleveland
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 118.893; Cleveland 132.084
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 13 1/2; 37
Vegas Line: Cleveland by 10; 40
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-10); Under

Game 439-440: Tennessee at Indianapolis
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 133.692; Indianapolis 141.816
Dunkel Line: Indianapolis by 8; 42
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 6; 39 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Indianapolis (+6); Over

Game 441-442: Minnesota at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 130.055; Denver 131.131
Dunkel Line: Denver by 1; 44
Vegas Line: Minnesota by 3; 41
Dunkel Pick: Denver (+3); Over

Game 443-444: San Diego at Oakland
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego 140.930; Oakland 126.355
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 14 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: San Diego by 7 1/2; 42
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (-7 1/2); Over

Game 445-446: St. Louis at Arizona
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 120.971; Arizona 128.141
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 7; 52
Vegas Line: Arizona by 6; 48
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-6); Over

Game 447-448: Kansas City at NY Jets
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 121.344; NY Jets 131.273
Dunkel Line: NY Jets by 10; 37
Vegas Line: NY Jets by 5 1/2; 33 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Jets (-5 1/2); Over

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

[pm530]

National Football League – Long Sheet

NFL
Long Sheet


Week 17

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, December 29
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW ENGLAND (15 - 0) at NY GIANTS (10 - 5) - 12/29/2007, 8:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games off a division game over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 41-23 ATS (+15.7 Units) in December games since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games off a win against a division rival over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 75-50 ATS (+20.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 52-27 ATS (+22.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, December 30
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUFFALO (7 - 8) at PHILADELPHIA (7 - 8) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

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

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

CAROLINA (6 - 9) at TAMPA BAY (9 - 6) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 72-45 ATS (+22.5 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
CAROLINA is 34-19 ATS (+13.1 Units) in December games since 1992.

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

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

CINCINNATI (6 - 9) at MIAMI (1 - 14) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 25-43 ATS (-22.3 Units) in December games since 1992.

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

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

DALLAS (13 - 2) at WASHINGTON (8 - 7) - 12/30/2007, 4:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

DETROIT (7 - 8) at GREEN BAY (12 - 3) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in road games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in all games this season.
GREEN BAY is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in all lined games this season.
GREEN BAY is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points this season.
GREEN BAY is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
GREEN BAY is 38-22 ATS (+13.8 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

JACKSONVILLE (11 - 4) at HOUSTON (7 - 8) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in a road game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all games this season.
JACKSONVILLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
JACKSONVILLE is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) against conference opponents this season.
JACKSONVILLE is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
JACKSONVILLE is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS (7 - 8) at CHICAGO (6 - 9) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

PITTSBURGH (10 - 5) at BALTIMORE (4 - 11) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

SEATTLE (10 - 5) at ATLANTA (3 - 12) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

SAN FRANCISCO (5 - 10) at CLEVELAND (9 - 6) - 12/30/2007, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-25 ATS (-15.5 Units) in a road game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points since 1992.
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points this season.
CLEVELAND is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
CLEVELAND is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
CLEVELAND is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
CLEVELAND is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.

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

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

TENNESSEE (9 - 6) at INDIANAPOLIS (13 - 2) - 12/30/2007, 8:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANAPOLIS is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in dome games over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANAPOLIS is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANAPOLIS is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

MINNESOTA (8 - 7) at DENVER (6 - 8) - 12/30/2007, 4:15 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.

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

SAN DIEGO (9 - 5) at OAKLAND (4 - 11) - 12/30/2007, 4:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 4-1 against the spread versus OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
SAN DIEGO is 5-0 straight up against OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
5 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

ST LOUIS (3 - 12) at ARIZONA (7 - 8) - 12/30/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

KANSAS CITY (4 - 11) at NY JETS (3 - 12) - 12/30/2007, 4:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 10-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) against AFC East division opponents since 1992.

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

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

[pm530]

National Football League - Short Sheet

Week 17

NFL
Short Sheet

Saturday, December 29th

New England at NY Giants, 8:15 EST, TV – NFL, NBC, CBS
New England: 6-0 ATS away off a division game
NY Giants: 0-7 ATS at home in the second half of the season

Sunday, December 30th

Buffalo at Philadelphia, 1:00 EST
Buffalo: 5-1 Under off an Over
Philadelphia: 4-0 ATS off BB road wins

Carolina at Tampa Bay, 1:00 EST
Carolina: 1-5 ATS off a SU loss / ATS win
Tampa Bay: 14-3 ATS off a loss as a road favorite

Cincinnati at Miami, 1:00 EST
Cincinnati: 10-2 ATS off 4+ Unders
Miami: 2-10 ATS off a road loss

(TC) Dallas at Washington, 4:15 EST
Dallas: 12-4 Over in road games
Washington: 6-16 ATS as a home favorite of 7.5 to 14 points

Detroit at Green Bay, 1:00 EST
Detroit: 7-19 ATS away off a win by 6 or less points
Green Bay: 7-1 ATS after winning 4 or 5 of their last 6 games

Jacksonville at Houston, 1:00 EST
Jacksonville: 7-0 ATS off BB Overs
Houston: 0-6 ATS after winning 2 of their last 3 games

New Orleans at Chicago, 1:00 EST
New Orleans: 12-1 ATS away after allowing 175+ rushing yards
Chicago: 18-6 Over vs. conference opponents

(TC) Pittsburgh at Baltimore, 4:15 EST
Pittsburgh: 0-6 ATS after scoring 35+ points
Baltimore: 6-0 ATS at home off a non-conference game

Seattle at Atlanta, 1:00 EST
Seattle: 0-8 ATS away off a win by 14+ points
Atlanta: 9-1 Under as a home favorite

San Francisco at Cleveland, 1:00 EST
San Francisco: 0-7 ATS away after allowing 300+ passing yards
Cleveland: 7-1 ATS as a favorite

(TC) Tennessee at Indianapolis, 8:15 EST NBC
Tennessee: 6-1 Under off a straight up win
Indianapolis: 7-1 ATS off 3+ wins

Minnesota at Denver, 4:15 EST
Minnesota: 18-34 ATS off a loss as a favorite
Denver: 9-1 ATS off BB games scoring 14 or less points

San Diego at Oakland, 4:15 EST
San Diego: 23-4 ATS off 4+ ATS wins
Oakland: 2-12 ATS in December

St. Louis at Arizona, 4:15 EST
St. Louis: 4-13 ATS off a loss by 14+ points
Arizona: 15-6 Over playing on artificial turf

(TC) Kansas City at NY Jets, 4:15 EST
Kansas City: 10-24 ATS vs. AFC East opponents
NY Jets: 9-2 ATS after scoring 14 or less points

** End of Regular Season **

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

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

[pm530]

National Football League – Write up

NFL
Write-up


Week 17

Week 17 NFL scoreboard

Very strange week looms ahead, as most of the playoff spots are already sewn up, so motivation and who-plays-how much is the big question of the week. More than most weeks, keeping your ears to the TV for late news Saturday night/Sunday will be very helpful in your handicapping efforts.

Saturday, December 29

Patriots (15-0) @ Giants (10-5) -- New York has playoff game next week, so they're more likely to sit any nicked-up starters than the Patriots, who have next week off. NE covered just one of last five games, winning by 3-3-21-10-21 points- they're 5-2 as road faves with five wins by 21+ pts. Pats allowed two offensive TDs in last 31 drives by opponents. Giants are 3-2 vs spread as an underdog this season- their losses are by 10-22-11-24-12 pts. Does anyone think Giants would beat New England, even if they did go all out? Over is 5-2 in New England road games this season.

Sunday, December 30

Bills (7-8) @ Eagles (7-8) -- Philly showing spunk, grit as season ends; they're 5-2 in last seven games, losing 28-24 to Seattle and 16-13 to Giants (two playoff teams), but those losses were in last two home games (Eagles are 2-5 at home, 3-6 vs spread as a fave this year). Buffalo is 3-4 on road, 2-4 as road dog, with losses by 23-31-22-8 points- they've given up 174-291 rushing yards in last two games, losing last week after leading 14-0. In last four games Eagles ran for 144-141-134-184 yards, so Westbrook has to have big eyes here. Over is 6-3 in Eagles' last nine games.

Panthers (6-9) @ Tampa Bay (9-6) -- Bucs have playoff game next week, sat Garcia for lot of loss at 49ers last week, likely to do so again here. Panthers lost last three road games, by 13-14-31 pts, after winning first four on road; they're 2-2 last four games, had a tough home loss to Cowboys Saturday night. Carolina averaged just 2.7 yds/pass in first meeting, 20-7 home loss, as Tampa Bay outrushed them 189-99, and had 22-yard edge in field position. Gruden has already said he is preparing for Giants (unusual that Wild Card pairings are set early). Is under the play here?

Bengals (6-9) @ Dolphins (1-14) -- Underdogs are 5-1 vs spread the week after playing the Patriots, which Miami did last week-- Cincy is 1-6 on road, with only win 21-7, when they didn't score a TD. In last four games, Bengals scored 10-19-13-19 pts (five TDs on last 40 drives); they've played better at home in second half of season, but not on road, losing last away game to 49ers. Miami has six losses by exactly three points- they covered three of last four tries as underdog. Last five Bengal games stayed under the total, three of last four Miami games went over.

Cowboys (13-2) @ Redskins (8-7) -- Washington makes it into the playoffs with win vs arch-rival, who are locked into the top seed in NFC and could rest Romo (thumb)- Owens (ankle) is definitely out. Redskins won last three games, by 8-12-11 points; they lost 28-23 at Dallas six weeks ago (+11), despite Campbell's 34-55/361 passing game (Skins had 28 first downs). Spread is inflated due to Redskins' needing to win- keep in mind Collins is backup QB that has played well thus far (30-55/417, six TDs on 26 drives and two wins). Skins are 4-3 at home, with wins by 3-31-2-8 points.

Lions (7-8) @ Packers (12-3) -- Green Bay has home playoff game next week, unsure of how long Favre will play (backup Rodgers has injury issues, oddly enough). Pack had two punts blocked in loss last week, first defensive/special teams TDs they allowed all season. Despite snapping 6-game skid last week, Lions still have shot at first .500 season of Millen era- they lost 37-26 at home to Packers Thanksgiving Day (+3), in game where Favre was 31-41/ 381 passing. Pack sacked Kitna four times on Turkey Day. Over is 5-0-1 in last six Packer games, 5-0 in Detroit's last five.

Jaguars (10-5) @ Texans (7-8) -- Houston has a shot at first-ever .500 season, against Jaguar club that is in playoffs next week, so could be resting guys (they played well enough with backup QB Gray earlier, winning at Tampa, losing at Superdome). Jags won first meeting 37-17 in Week 6 (-7), outrushing Texans 244-61 in a game that was just 10-6 at half. Houston had just one TD in five visits to Jax red zone; they're 5-2 at home, scoring 24-36 points in the two losses- they won last three home games, by 13-14-18 pts. Last nine Jcksonville games went over the total.

Saints (7-8) @ Bears (6-9) -- New Orleans is still alive, depsite loss at home last week; their magical '06 season ended here LY, in the NFC title game, so they have revenge motive vs a Chicago team that blocked two Packer punts last week, allowing Orton to try only 14 passes (8-14/101). Two games Saints need for help are at 4:15, so they have to win, then hope- this is their second outdoor game since Halloween, first in five weeks (they're 3-1 outside this year, losing only at Tampa in Week 2). Seven of last nine Saints games went over the total.

Steelers (10-5) @ Ravens (4-11) -- Pittsburgh has a home playoff game next week, had 10 days since last game; Charlie Batch is #2 QB, if Tomlin decides to rest Big Ben, vs division rival they beat 38-7 back in Week 9 (-9.5). Ravens were just 16-31/40 passing in game they trailed 35-7 at half. Would be concerned about Pitt's running game, with Parker now gone (broken leg). Rookie Smith is 31-63/369 passing in first two NFL starts- they got whacked in Seattle last week and went 3/out on 17 of last 44 drives. Five of last six Baltimore games went over total.

Seahawks (10-5) @ Falcons (3-12) -- Jim Mora Jr was coach of the Falcons until LY; now he has to be glad as hell they fired him, as 2007 is worst season in Falcon history, and thats saying quite a bit. Mora is Seahawks' DB coach now, and is line either to take Holmgren's place when time comes, or take over at Washington if Willingham gets fired next year. Seattle has a home playoff game next week- they are in eastern time zone for third time in last five weeks- they've won six of last seven games, losing at Carolina in Week 15. Falcons lost six in row, are unbackable (is that a word?)

49ers (5-10) @ Browns (9-6) -- Game doesn't matter to Cleveland team that coughed up chance to make playoffs last week; they'll need Colts to beat Titans Sunday night, no matter what happens here, so hard to lay double digits, considering that if they make playoffs, they play next week. 49ers are 3-2 in last five games and won last two weeks (both at home), as defense allowed just 81.7 rushing yards in the last three games. Niners are 2-5 as road dog, losing away games by 21-18-4-24-17 points. Last five Cleveland games stayed under the total.

Titans (9-6) @ Indianapolis (13-2) -- Sunday night game decides #6 seed in AFC; how much Manning, Colt regulars play decides who wins game. Dungy has said Manning will play half at most. Titans won three of their last four games after a three-game skid had Tennessee at 6-5 and looking dead; they lost 22-20 at home to Indy in Week 2 (+7), holding Colts to one TD in five visits to Titan red zone. Potential s-factor would be return of Harrison at WR, which would keep Manning in game, to re-establish timing after long layoff. Four of last five Indy games went over total.

Vikings (8-7) @ Broncos (6-9) -- Minnesota will have one eye on Broncos, one eye on scoreboard for Redskin updates; they need Dallas to win to have shot at making playoffs, after home loss to Skins last week (first loss in last six games) put Vikings in tough spot. Denver lost four of last five games (win was 41-7 vs Chiefs) scoring one TD on 20 drives in last two games, both vs division rivals. Vikings won last two road games (41-17/27-7) after losing four of first five away games; they scored five defensive TDs in last four road games. Over is 6-2 in last eight Denver games.

Chargers (10-5) @ Raiders (4-11) -- San Diego has home playoff game next week; they rested Rivers last week, likely to do more of same, and Volek wasn't exactly impressive in relief last week, but Raiders are giving young Russell his first NFL start after a horror show vs Jaguars last week, in 49-11 loss, their third in row (by 31- 7-38 pts). Bolts won first meeting 28-14 in Week 6 (-10), as hosts outrushed Oakland 206-53, sacked Culpepper six times. Raiders been outscored 56-15 in second half of last three games. Five of Raiders' last six games went over total.

Rams (3-12) @ Cardinals (7-8) -- Arizona has shot at rare .500 year after blowing chances to contend for playoff spot; they won the first meeting at St Louis 34-31 in Week 5 (-3.5) when Leinart hurt his collarbone and two-time MVP (with Rams) Warner came in, won game for Big Red. Cardinals are just 2-3 in last five at home, losing twice in OT in last five weeks. Lost year ends for St Louis, which lost last three games, by 9-19-17 points; they covered last three road games, after going 0-4 vs spread in first four. Losses on road for Rams are by 21-28-19-27-9 pts (won at NO, SF).

Chiefs (4-11) @ Jets (3-12) -- Herm Edwards quit Jets two years ago, now makes first visit back with Chief team that last won on October 21 (12-10 vs Raiders, which made them 4-3 at the time). Jets lost last three games, are 1-12 vs teams other than Dolphins; they're favored for first time since Halloween, in stadium where they're 2-6 this season, beating Miami (31-28 in Week 3) and the Steelers (19-16 ot in Week 11). Chiefs just don't have QB who is at NFL level; they're 1-7 vs spread during losing streak; they are 2-5 on road, losing by 17-10-3-34-5 points.

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

[pm530]

National Football League - Tips & Trends

NFL


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunday, December 30

PLAYOFF SCENARIOS

San Francisco 49ers at Cleveland Browns (FOX | 1 PM ET)
Browns are playing for an AFC Wild Card spot - need a win and Titans loss.

Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers (FOX | 1 PM ET)
Packers have already clinched the #2 seed in the NFC - may rest starters.

New Orleans Saints at Chicago Bears (FOX | 1 PM ET)
Saints playing for an NFC wild card spot - need a win + Vikings/Redskins losses.

Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (FOX | 1 PM ET)
Bucs already clinched the #4 Seed in the NFC - may rest starters.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans (CBS | 1 PM ET)
Jags have already clinched the #5 seed in the AFC - may rest starters.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens (CBS | 4:15 PM ET)
Steelers clinched a playoff spot - playing for #3 seed in the AFC but need Chargers loss so may rest starters.

San Diego Chargers at Oakland Raiders (CBS | 4:15 PM ET)
Chargers have already clinched playoff spot and will earn the #3 seed in the AFC with a win.

Dallas Cowboys at Washington Redskins (FOX | 4:15 PM ET)
Cowboys have already clinched the #1 Seed in the NFC - may rest starters.
Redskins win and they clinch the NFC wild card.

Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts (NBC | 8:15 ET)
Titans win clinches an AFC Wild Card spot.

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

[pm530]

National Football League - Line Movements

NFL
Line Movements

Sunday, December 30

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Line Movements
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Line movements in the NFL

The final week of the NFL’s regular season often leads to pending playoff teams resting their regulars. Recently, teams have put a greater emphasis on carrying momentum into the postseason, though. The oddsmakers failed to fully take that fact into account with three games on the slate for this weekend. Here are those games:


Detroit at Green Bay

Open – Green Bay (-3.5)

Any other week in the season and this line would be approaching double digits. The only reason it’s so low is because of Green Bay’s impending trip to the playoffs. The odds-makers assumed the Packers would simply rest up for the postseason and not put much effort into this game. But that will not be case.

Green Bay played its worst game of the year last week at Chicago, taking a 35-7 pounding at the hands of Chicago. Mike McCarthy, Brett Favre and the rest of the Packers will not want to go into the postseason with consecutive poor performances. They didn’t get to run any of their normal offense in the 40 mph Chicago wind so letting up this week would mean essentially three consecutive weeks off for the Green Bay offense. The Packers don’t want to take this chance so they’ll come out firing, maybe not for the whole game but for a good portion of it.

The betting public has already jumped on this line with a majority of the action going on Green Bay. This will continue throughout the week and lead to a rise in the spread. So if you like the Packers to bounce back take the line now while it’s at its lowest. If you like Detroit wait until later in the week to place your bet.


Carolina at Tampa Bay

Open – Carolina (-3)

Tampa Bay falls into a similar situation as Green Bay. The Buccaneers are coming off an unexpected loss to the lowly 49ers last week and won’t want to head into the playoffs with consecutive losses. Momentum plays a large part in postseason success and Tampa Bay will need to build some up with a win in the final week. The Bucs may not play their starters throughout but they’ll give them some significant action.

The biggest advantage for Tampa Bay may be at quarterback position. Jeff Garcia may not see much action for the Bucs but his backup, Luke McCown, has played extremely well in spot action this year. McCown has completed 65.8 percent of his passes this year and owns a very solid 87.4 quarterback rating.

Carolina, meanwhile, is down to third-string quarterback Matt Moore. For as good as McCown has been, Moore has been equally as bad. He has completed just 55.2 percent of his passes this year and is the not-so-proud owner of an awful 59.4 quarterback rating.

The Panthers have garnered no respect from the public this year and they’re not about to start this week. The Bucs have received a majority of the action so far this week and will likely continue to up until game time. So if you like the Bucs take them now while they’re still underdogs. But if you like Carolina, wait until closer to kickoff to place your bet.


Seattle at Atlanta

Open – Atlanta (-2.5)

Drama has surrounded this Atlanta franchise since the offseason and it continues to envelop the team into the final week. From Mike Vick’s legal troubles to Bobby Petrino abruptly leaving the team, this squad is in absolute shambles. Atlanta’s issues have been well-publicized, making the public’s perception of the Falcons a non-favorable one.

The Falcons are currently favored but that might not last much longer. Seattle’s division title, coupled with Atlanta’s negative public perception, make betting on the Seahawks an attractive proposition. And that has been the exact case so far with heavy action on Seattle through Wednesday. Bettors don’t care that Seattle will rest its starters for at least a portion of the game.

Atlanta has been favored just once coming into the season’s final week. There’s a reason for that. The Falcons are not a good team and the public will realize that and decrease this spread throughout the week. If you like Seattle take the line now. If you like Atlanta delay your wager until later in the week.

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

[pm530]

National Basketball Association – Write up

NBA
Write-up


Friday, December 28

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

Today's NBA analysis

Hot Teams
-- Hornets won last three games, by 14-34-18 points.
-- Pacers won last eight games that followed a loss. Pistons are 8-1 in last nine games, won last six, covered last five.
-- Spurs are 10-3 vs spread in last thirteen home games.
-- Portland won, covered their last eleven games.
-- 76ers won seven of their last ten games.
-- Lakers won three in row, covered five of last seven games.
-- Nuggets won three of their last four games. Warriors are 4-1 in their last five contests.

Cold Teams
-- Bobcats lost twelve of their last sixteen games.
-- Miami lost six of their last eight games. Magic lost seven of their last ten games.
-- Nets lost seven of their last ten games. Wizards lost three of their last four games.
-- Rockets lost four of last five games, covered two of last eight Grizzlies lost three in row, ten of last twelve games.
-- Bulls lost last three games, covered one of last seven. Bucks lost twelve of their last seventeen games, covered one of six.
-- Raptors lost last three games (0-5 vs spread in last five).
-- Clippers lost five in row, by 21-3-13-9-20 points. Suns are 0-4 SU in game following their last four wins.
-- Minnesota lost eight of last nine games, but is 5-3 vs spread in their last eight.
-- Kings lost three of last four at home (0-4 vs spread).
-- Jazz lost nine of its last twelve games.

Previous meetings this season
-- Hornets used to live in Charlotte, are not popular there.
-- Miami lost 120-99 in Orlando Nov 24, in first meeting against their former coach, Stan Van Gundy.
-- Home side won both Wizard-Net games this season.
-- Home side won both Houston-Memphis games this season.
-- Bulls lost 78-72 at Milwaukee Nov 3 (-2.5).
-- Clippers lost 113-94 at Phoenix Nov 23 (+14), and 108-88 last night at home (+8).
-- Kings won 109-99 at Philly two weeks ago (+5).
-- Home side won both Utah-Laker games this season.

Totals
-- Six of last eight Hornet games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 9-5 in Miami's last fourteen games.
-- Seven of last eight Washington games stayed under total.
-- Over is 5-2 in Houston's last seven road games.
-- Last seven Detroit games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 5-2 in Chicago's last seven home games.
-- Six of Spurs' last seven games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 14-5 in Clippers' last nineteen games.
-- Under is 9-2 in Minnesota's last eleven games.
-- Four of 76ers' last five games stayed under the total.
-- Seven of last nine Utah games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Denver games went over the total, but under is 8-1 in Golden State's last nine games.

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

[pm530]

National Basketball Association - Tips & Trends

NBA


Friday, December 28

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Orlando Magic at Miami Heat (7 PM ET)

Magic are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 games after scoring 100+ points.
Magic are 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings.
Heat are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games against the Southwest Division.
The OVER is 9-4 in Miami's last 13 games overall.
Get Hoops Info Worth Betting in the Buzzer Beater!


Indiana Pacers at Detroit Pistons (8 PM ET)

Pacers are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS loss. (Bet Indiana +9 at Bookmaker - the best line available at last check!)
Pistons are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games when playing 1 days rest.
The road team is 23-11-2 ATS in the last 36 meetings.
The UNDER is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Detroit.


Toronto Raptors at San Antonio Spurs (8:30 PM ET)

Raptors are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
Spurs are 11-5-1 ATS in their last 17 games overall.
The road team is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meeings.
The UNDER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.


Los Angeles Clippers at Phoenix Suns (9 PM ET)

Clippers are 9-21 ATS in their last 30 games against a team winning above 60 percent.
Suns are 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games against the Western Conference.
The favorite is 8-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings.
The OVER is 10-4-1 in the last 15 meetings.


Denver Nuggets at Golden State Warriors (10:30 PM ET)

Nuggets are 6-16 ATS in their last 22 games against the Western Conference.
Warriors are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games when playing on 1 days rest.
The home team is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings.
The OVER is 10-2 in the last 12 meetings in Golden State.


Utah Jazz at Los Angeles Lakers (10:30 PM ET)

Jazz are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 road games against a winning home team.
Lakers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings.
The OVER is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Los Angeles.

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

[pm530]

College Basketball – Long Sheet

NCAAB
Long Sheet


Friday, December 28

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

UC-IRVINE (4 - 7) at S CAROLINA (6 - 5) - 12/28/2007, 7:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

SOUTHERN MISS (8 - 4) at OLE MISS (11 - 0) - 12/28/2007, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SOUTHERN MISS is 8-24 ATS (-18.4 Units) in road games versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game since 1997.
OLE MISS is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) after scoring 80 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
SOUTHERN MISS is 20-7 ATS (+12.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SOUTHERN MISS is 20-7 ATS (+12.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SOUTHERN MISS is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

DELAWARE (4 - 6) at MARYLAND (6 - 6) - 12/28/2007, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MARYLAND is 73-48 ATS (+20.2 Units) in all home games since 1997.
MARYLAND is 73-48 ATS (+20.2 Units) in home lined games since 1997.
MARYLAND is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all games this season.
MARYLAND is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
MARYLAND is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
MARYLAND is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in non-conference games this season.

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

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

CONNECTICUT (8 - 2) at UCF (5 - 5) - 12/28/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CONNECTICUT is 10-21 ATS (-13.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 10-21 ATS (-13.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in road games after allowing 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 22-40 ATS (-22.0 Units) in road games after scoring 80 points or more since 1997.

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

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

BUTLER (11 - 1) at S ILLINOIS (5 - 5) - 12/28/2007, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
S ILLINOIS is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) on Friday nights since 1997.
BUTLER is 28-14 ATS (+12.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BUTLER is 28-14 ATS (+12.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
BUTLER is 25-12 ATS (+11.8 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
BUTLER is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in non-conference games this season.

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

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

N DAKOTA ST (6 - 5) vs. BUCKNELL (4 - 6) - 12/28/2007, 5:30 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.

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

LONG BEACH ST (3 - 6) at CALIFORNIA (7 - 2) - 12/28/2007, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALIFORNIA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in home games after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
CALIFORNIA is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
LONG BEACH ST is 38-24 ATS (+11.6 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
LONG BEACH ST is 38-24 ATS (+11.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CALIFORNIA is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home games when playing with 5 or 6 days rest since 1997.

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

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

HOFSTRA (2 - 6) vs. VIRGINIA TECH (6 - 5) - 12/28/2007, 6:30 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.

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

MARIST (6 - 5) at ST JOHNS (5 - 4) - 12/28/2007, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST JOHNS is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
ST JOHNS is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in home games in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

E MICHIGAN (4 - 5) vs. RHODE ISLAND (11 - 1) - 12/28/2007, 6:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
RHODE ISLAND is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in all games this season.
RHODE ISLAND is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
RHODE ISLAND is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
RHODE ISLAND is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
RHODE ISLAND is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in non-conference games this season.
E MICHIGAN is 26-12 ATS (+12.8 Units) in road games after scoring 60 points or less since 1997.

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

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

GA SOUTHERN (8 - 2) at TEXAS A&M CC (2 - 7) - 12/28/2007, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GA SOUTHERN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) after a non-conference game this season.

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

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

FURMAN (0 - 10) vs. CS-FULLERTON (6 - 3) - 12/28/2007, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FURMAN is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

HOWARD (3 - 9) at ST MARYS-CA (10 - 1) - 12/28/2007, 10:30 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.

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

DENVER (4 - 6) at SANTA CLARA (7 - 5) - 12/28/2007, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 8-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) in road lined games over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
SANTA CLARA is 38-19 ATS (+17.1 Units) when playing with 5 or 6 days rest since 1997.
SANTA CLARA is 62-38 ATS (+20.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
SANTA CLARA is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

MORGAN ST (6 - 4) vs. NIAGARA (6 - 3) - 12/28/2007, 11:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NIAGARA is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

FAIRFIELD (2 - 8) at ST PETERS (3 - 7) - 12/28/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST PETERS is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as a home favorite of 3 points or less or pick since 1997.
FAIRFIELD is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
FAIRFIELD is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in road lined games over the last 3 seasons.
ST PETERS is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in all home games over the last 3 seasons.
ST PETERS is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
ST PETERS is 21-38 ATS (-20.8 Units) in home games against conference opponents since 1997.

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

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

ST JOSEPHS (5 - 4) at SIENA (6 - 3) - 12/28/2007, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SIENA is 36-22 ATS (+11.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
SIENA is 36-22 ATS (+11.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
SIENA is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
ST JOSEPHS is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.

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

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

SACRAMENTO ST (2 - 8) at N COLORADO (5 - 6) - 12/28/2007, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SACRAMENTO ST is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) in road games in December games since 1997.
SACRAMENTO ST is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing with 7 or more days rest since 1997.
N COLORADO is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all games this season.
N COLORADO is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
N COLORADO is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) after a non-conference game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
N COLORADO is 1-1 straight up against SACRAMENTO ST over the last 3 seasons

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

LOYOLA-MD (5 - 6) at ILLINOIS (7 - 4) - 12/28/2007, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOYOLA-MD is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
LOYOLA-MD is 31-16 ATS (+13.4 Units) as a road underdog of 12.5 or more points since 1997.
LOYOLA-MD is 12-1 ATS (+10.9 Units) as a road underdog of 15.5 to 18 points since 1997.
LOYOLA-MD is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LOYOLA-MD is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
LOYOLA-MD is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 14-27 ATS (-15.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 14-27 ATS (-15.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 5-17 ATS (-13.7 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
ILLINOIS is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

SAN FRANCISCO (4 - 8) at WEBER ST (4 - 7) - 12/28/2007, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 44-68 ATS (-30.8 Units) after a non-conference game since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 44-69 ATS (-31.9 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
WEBER ST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a home favorite of 3 points or less or pick over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

SAN JOSE ST (4 - 5) at PORTLAND ST (7 - 6) - 12/28/2007, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN JOSE ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing with 5 or 6 days rest over the last 3 seasons.
SAN JOSE ST is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
SAN JOSE ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

[pm530]

College Basketball – Write up

NCAAB
Write-up


Friday, December 28

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

Friday's College Basketball

Games of the Day

Ole Miss is 11-0 after beating Clemson in tourney last week, but Rebels are just 2-4 vs spread as favorite. Ole Miss won 76-67 at Central Florida of C-USA, team similar to USM. Golden Eagles are 4-4 after bad loss to McNeese State; their other losses are 67-59 at Cal (+8), 79-77 at Alabama (+8.5), 75-68 at USA (+3.5).

Southern Illinois (+2) won 68-64 at Butler LY; Salukis lost five of their last seven games, but wins were both good (St Mary's, Western Kentucky)- they've played hard schedule. Butler has won 10 of first 11 games, losing 43-42 at Wright State- Bulldogs were in Florida last week- they've won four of five road games.

Eddie Sutton debuts as the San Francisco coach; Dons are 4-8; how the hell does he coach team he never saw play before two days ago? USF is 1-5 in last six games, losing last three by 13-3- 8 pts- they're 2-3-1 as underdog. Weber St. is 2-5 vs D-I teams; this is first time this year they're favored to win a lined game.

Rest of card

-- Irvine lost six of last eight games; they're 0-3 on road, losing at Utah (78-66), Sam Houston State (61-54), Texas A&M (88-66) South Carolina hasn't won consecutive games since first week of season; they're 2-3 vs spread as the favorite.

-- Delaware is 2-6, 0-5 on road, losing by 11-5-5-19-33 pts; they are 1-2-1 vs spread as underdog. Maryland has already lost to Ohio, American; they've lost last three games, are 1-5 vs spread as a favorite this season.

-- UConn is 8-2, with zero good wins; best them they've beaten is probably Northeastern. Central Florida lost three of last four games, but they've played lot of good teams; they're 1-4 vs the spread as an underdog this season.

-- Cal lost two of last three games after 6-0 start; they're 2-1-1 vs spread as favorite. Long Beach has whole new team; they're 3-0 vs spread in last three tries as dog. Three of their last four tilts were decided by four or less points.

-- Virginia Tech won four of last five games after 2-4 start, but last loss was 72-69 to ODU squad that is CAA rival of Hofstra, which has lost six of first eight games; four of their last five L's are by four or less points.

-- Marist is 5-5 with new PG after Jordan graduated; three of its five losses are by 9+ pts. St John's went 1-2 in Hawai'i last week they've lost four of last five games, are 0-2 as favorite, open the Big East schedule Wednesday, visiting Syracuse.

-- Rhode Island is surprise team, at 9-1, winning last five games; they're 7-1 vs spread as favorite. Eastern Michigan is 3-1 vs the spread as underdog, but are just 4-5 SU; three of their five L's are by 11+ points.

-- Georgia Southern won eight of last nine games, losing 52-49 at Florida, so they're pretty good, but are 0-2 on road, losing at Florida, Fla State. Corpus Christi is 2-7; their last six losses are all by 11 or more points.

-- Furman is 0-9, already 0-3 in its league; they're 3-3 vs spread as underdog, as only two of its losses are by more than 14 pts. Fullerton is 6-3, but 0-2 vs spread as favorite; three of their last four games were decided by four or less points.

-- Denver plays Princeton-style, so hard to lay 14 in what will be low scoring affair; Pioneers are 3-5 after upsetting No. Texas in Sun Belt opener- they're 3-2 as underdog. Santa Clara lost its last two games, 74-48 at Stanford, 68-50 at Minnesota.

-- Morgan State isn't bad, losing by 4 to both UConn, Miami; they're coached former Cal coach Bozeman, are 6-4; the MEAC . usually doesn't have teams above .500 out of league. Niagara won three of last four games, is 7-3, 3-1-1 vs spread as favorite.

-- Fairfield beat St Peter's twice LY, 63-60 here (-3), 66-58 (-7) at home; Stags lost last six games, are 1-7, with losses to Yale and St Francis, games they should win. Peacocks lost five games in row, are 3-6, losing MAAC opener 65-62 at Manhattan (+5).

-- Siena already beat Stanford at home; they're 6-3, 4-0 at home, winning last game in OT vs Holy Cross. St Joe's is 5-3 with two OT losses; they're 1-2 on road, losing 72-69 at Syracuse. 90-84 in OT at Creighton, winning 57-48 at Boston U.

-- Visiting team won both Sacramento-Northern Colorado tilts a year ago, with Hornets winning 74-70 here. Sac State lost seven of last eight games, but is 5-2 vs spread as dog, primarily due to fact they've been getting so many points.

-- Portland State (+3) won 72-63 at San Jose LY; Vikings are 1-3 in last four games, but they've already played eight road games. Spartans lost four of its last five games, is 0-2 on road, losing 60-40 at San Diego (+9), 85-45 at Michigan State (+26).

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

[pm530]

College Basketball - Tips & Trends

NCAAB


Friday, December 28

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

#17 Butler at Southern Illinois (ESPNU | 9 PM ET)

Butler is 35-17 ATS in its last 52 games overall.
Southern Illinois is 24-11-2 ATS in its last 37 games following an ATS win.
The UNDER is 35-17-2 in South Illinois' last 54 non-conference games.

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

[pm530]

College Basketball – Matchup Notes

NCAAB


Friday, December 28

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Today's key NCAAB Top 25 matchup notes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday's key Top 25 NCAAB matchup notes

Eastern Michigan vs No. 25 Rhode Island (-13 ½)

The teams are meeting for the first time since Rhode Island won 79-68 on Dec. 30, 1998.


Southern Mississippi vs No. 24 Mississippi (-7)

The state rivals haven't met since Ole Miss won 113-107 in double overtime on Dec. 19, 1995. The Rebels have won 15 of 19 meetings against the Golden Eagles.


No. 17 Butler at Southern Illinois (off)

Butler was enjoying a 22-game homecourt win streak last season before Southern Illinois ended that with a 68-64 win at Hinkle Fieldhouse on Feb. 17. The only other meeting between the teams was in 1963.


No.Carolina A&T at No. 4 Washington State (off)

Washington's State's defense could be put to the test against North Carolina A&T, which leads the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference with 76.9 points per game.

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