Announcement

**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:42 AM

Six-pack for Thursday

Top 6 Fantasy Catchers

6) Johjima, Seattle—Is 32 years old, but hit .291/.287 last two years, and is durable.

5) Posada, Bronx—Has 93-90 RBI last two years, hit .338 LY. Always comes up with runners on base.

4) Mauer, Twins—Missed 53 games LY, but hit .347 in 2006. Has 170 RBI last two years.

3) McCann, Braves—42 HR, 185 RBI last two years; is locked up with Braves through 2012.

2) Martin, Dodgers—Will play less, be fresher late in season under Torre. Stole 21 bags LY.

1) Martinez, Indians—Now playing 1B 20% of time, has had four terrific years in row with bat.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:43 AM

Thursday's List of 13: Random thoughts on a cold night......

13) Ole Miss has to release one of its football recruits after kid was arrested for possessing steroids with intent to sell.

12) There are 4,600+ accredited media members at Super Bowl.

11) Terrell Owens has to repay the Eagles $760,000+ from the signing bonus they gave him, but since he is due a $3M bonus from Dallas on March 1, he shouldn’t have to scramble for the money.

10) Cleveland Browns finally gave Romeo Crennel a two-year contract extension; will be interesting to see how they handle their QB situation this offseason.

9) Mets have until 5:30 Friday to sign Johan Santana, or the big trade is off. Santana is said to want seven years, $150M, so we’ll see how that one goes.

8) You look at minor league stats of Carlos Gomez, you see 89 walks in 1,291 AB, so while he might be ready to play CF in big leagues, he’s no top-of-order guy for Minnesota. Not yet.

7) After Lakers beat Knicks Tuesday, they left on nine-game road trip, their longest since 1961.

6) If NBA playoffs started Thursday morning, these would be first-round matchups in NBA playoffs: Wizards-Cavs…..Raptors-Magic……Pistons-Hawks……Celtics-Nets.

5) West matchups would be: Jazz-Lakers…..Mavs-Spurs… ..Suns-Blazers……Nuggets-Hornets.

4) Cubs gave Japanese OF Kosuke Fukudome $48M for four years to play right field, bat fifth for them; he better be good, since all Cubs got out of #5 slot LY was 75 RBI (NL average was 91.8). Aramis Ramirez needs protection in lineup.

If Fukudome is any good, Ramirez will get his protection. For $48M, Fukudome better be good.

3) Dick Vitale returns to TV next Wednesday for a Duke-UNC game; doctors have advised him against working consecutive nights, to rest his vocal chords. he actually went 25 days in a row with talking, which is hard to imagine.

2) In Georgetown-St John's game Wednesday, three players have dads who at one time played for Knicks-- Ewing, Mason and Doc Rivers. Johnnies didn't score hoop for first 15:00 in a horrible performance against the Hoyas.

1) Gas was $1.29 a gallon last time Kansas lost in Manhattan, so congrats to K-State coaches, kids as they ended 26 years of futility at home against rival Jayhawks. Michael Beasley is a man amongst boys in college ball; he could be the Carmelo Anthony of this season, leading Wildcats to a Final Four.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:47 AM

National Football League – Indexes, trends, stats, info

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NFL
Dunkel Index

New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
The Super Bowl features a rematch of Week 16 when the Giants gave New England a scare before losing (38-35). New York rode the motivation from that performance to three straight road wins in the playoffs, extending their road winning streak to 10 games. The Patriots continue to win, but not in the impressive fashion of earlier in the season and come into the game 0-5 ATS in their last five contests. The Giants are the underdog pick (+12) according to Dunkel, which has New England favored by only 9. Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+12). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Game 101-102: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 137.052; New England 146.340
Dunkel Line: New England by 9; 49
Vegas Line: New England by 12; 54
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+12); Under

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NFL
Long Sheet

Super Bowl XLII

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Sunday, February 3
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NY GIANTS (13 - 6) vs. NEW ENGLAND (18 - 0) - 2/3/2008, 6:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 52-30 ATS (+19.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.
NY GIANTS are 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) in all games this season.
NY GIANTS are 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) in all lined games this season.
NY GIANTS are 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) as an underdog this season.
NY GIANTS are 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) revenging a loss against opponent over the last 3 seasons.

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

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NFL
Short Sheet

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Sunday, February 3
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Super Bowl XLII
TV: FOX
NY Giants vs. New England, 6:20 ET

NY Giants:
9-2 ATS in road games
8-2 ATS as an underdog

New England:
2-8 ATS off 8+ wins
1-8 ATS off a SU home win / ATS loss

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NFL

Sunday, February 3

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Tips and Trends
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New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
Super Bowl XLII (FOX | 6:30 PM ET)

New York is trying to become the 2nd team in NFL history to win all of its playoff games on the road and then hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy, following the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XL. The Giants have won 10 straight away from home, going 9-1 ATS, with the lone loss coming in a 13-10 victory against Miami in London back on October 28th. EDGE: GIANTS
The Patriots are going for the 1st 19-0 season in NFL history and are already the 1st team to start 18-0. However, after covering their 1st 8 games of the regular season, they are just 2-8 ATS in their last 10, including 0-2 in the playoffs with a nearly identical spread as this one. The UNDER is also 4-1-1 in their last 6 games. EDGE: GIANTS
These teams met in the regular-season finale, which the Giants used as a springboard to the Super Bowl. Some questioned whether or not they would be mentally and physically drained after playing the Patriots hard when they had nothing on the line, but instead they gained a ton of confidence. Quarterback Eli Manning even admitted after winning the NFC Championship that playing competitively against New England in a playoff-type atmosphere is one of the main reasons they earned a rematch in the Super Bowl. EDGE: GIANTS
Manning continues his growth and maturity for the Giants with 8 touchdown passes and just 1 interception in his last 4 games. Ironically, that pick came against the Patriots, who were burned by 4 TD passes as well, 2 of which went to Plaxico Burress. While Manning's development has been crucial, New England QB Tom Brady is clearly in a league of his own as he goes for his 4th Super Bowl title in 4 attempts. Brady has been named Super Bowl MVP twice and is coming off the best regular season of any QB in league history with an NFL-record 50 touchdown passes. EDGE: PATRIOTS
New England is definitely seeing the benefit of a healthy Laurence Maroney, who remains as fresh as any running back the NFL has ever seen in the playoffs. Maroney was very limited for a majority of the regular season, sitting out 3 full games and carrying the ball 15 times or less in 9 other games. Maroney had scored just 2 touchdowns in the 1st 13 games of the regular season, but he has scored at least once in each of the last 5 - scoring 6 total during that stretch - including 2 in the regular-season finale against the Giants. He has rushed for 122 yards in each of the team's 2 playoff games so far on a combined 47 carries. BIG EDGE: PATRIOTS
Patriots are 13-6 ATS in their last 19 games vs. a team with a winning record.
Patriots are 40-19-3 ATS in ther last 62 games on grass.
The UNDER is 13-5-1 in New England's last 19 playoff games.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:49 AM

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NFL
Recent Trends

Sunday, February 3

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NFL Recent Trends
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N.Y. Giants (13-6) vs New England (18-0)

New England:
Under is 13-5-1 in NE last 19 playoff games.
NE are 13-6 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
NE are 40-19-3 ATS in their last 62 games on grass.

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NFL

Sunday, February 3

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NFL In Depth Trends
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Trends – New York Giants vs. New England Patriots

Red - Hot trends are trends 80% or higher.
Blue - Cold trends are trends 20% or lower.

ATS Trends

N.Y. Giants
Giants are 5-0 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Giants are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games on grass.
Giants are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games after accumulating more than 350 total yards in their previous game.
Giants are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 playoff games.
Giants are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
Giants are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a ATS win.
Giants are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game.
Giants are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a S.U. win.

New England
Patriots are 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 games after allowing less than 15 points in their previous game.
Patriots are 13-6 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Patriots are 40-19-3 ATS in their last 62 games on grass.
Patriots are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games following a S.U. win.
Patriots are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a ATS loss.
Patriots are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games overall.

O/U Trends

N.Y. Giants
Under is 4-1 in Giants last 5 playoff games.
Under is 5-2 in Giants last 7 games on grass.
Under is 44-19-2 in Giants last 65 games after allowing less than 90 yards rushing in their previous game.

New England
Over is 4-0 in Patriots last 4 games on grass.
Under is 4-1-1 in Patriots last 6 games following a S.U. win.
Under is 4-1-1 in Patriots last 6 games overall.
Under is 13-5-1 in Patriots last 19 playoff games.
Over is 9-4-1 in Patriots last 14 vs. a team with a winning record.

Head to Head
No trends available.

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NFL

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NFL – 5 Statistics
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Five Super Bowl stats you should know

With all the hype about this year’s Super Bowl it’s going to be relatively easy to find the obvious betting statistics, like against the spread and over/under records between the Pats and the Giants.

To give bettors a greater edge in their Super Bowl betting, we’ve gone back through 20 years worth of statistics to bring you a few nuggets of information that could help you make some money.

1. Big favorites have mixed results

The Patriots are hefty 12-point favorites to beat the Giants, which is not surprising for a team that is 18-0. But how have big favorites fared against the spread in past Super Bowls?

Favorites of seven points or more have gone 7-6-1 against the spread in the Super Bowl since the 1986 season, while faves of 10 points or more have gone 4-3-1. Ironically, the biggest spread over that time came in the 2002 clash between St. Louis and New England. The Rams were 14-point favorites, but ended up losing 20-17 to the Pats.

In their next two Super Bowl appearances, the Patriots were seven-point favorites. But they failed to cover on both occasions, beating the Panthers by three in 2004 and the Eagles by three in 2005. In fact, the Pats have been to five Super Bowls in 21 years, but have covered just once.

2. NFC wins battle of the East

Recent history is on the Giants’ side if you look back at Super Bowl matchups between teams from the AFC East and the NFC East.

In the five contests between teams from those divisions in the past 20 years, the NFC East teams are 4-1 straight and 5-0 against the spread, with three of those games going over the total. The Giants were involved in one of those battles, beating the Buffalo Bills 20-19 in 1991.

But the only AFC East team to hand an NFC East franchise a Super Bowl loss over that time was the New England Patriots. They beat the Eagles 24-21 in 2005.

3. Giants home record sets a record

The Giants set an unwanted record this season, becoming the only team in history to make football’s showpiece game, despite having a losing home record.

New York went 3-5 at home this season, losing to Green Bay, Dallas, Minnesota, Washington and New England at Giants Stadium. They lost to the Packers and Dallas by a combined 33 points in those home losses, but it’s worth noting that they defeated both teams on the road in the playoffs.

The home loss to New England will also be a source of encouragement for the Giants. They were only the third team this season to take a lead into the final quarter against the Patriots (28-23), but ended up losing 38-35 because of Tom Brady’s pinpoint passing under pressure.

4. Don’t overlook the total

There have only been five Super Bowls in the last 20 years with a total of 50 or more, with two of them going over the total and the other three going under. The Patriots were involved in one of those games – their 2004 win over Carolina went over the 53-point total.

Of more relevance are the total trends in recent matchups between the Pats and the Giants. Three straight meetings between these teams have gone over, but the totals only ranged from 35 to 46 ½ over that period.

In fact, the 53 ½-point spread between the New England and New York is the highest in well over 10 years and is likely the reaction of oddsmakers to the offensive shootout these teams produced in their last meeting.

5. Successful road teams in the Super Bowl

The New York Giants have won 10 straight road games (a single season record), including three straight in this season’s playoffs. Only five wild-card teams since 1970 have reached the Super Bowl.

The two most recent were the 1986 New England Patriots and the 2006 Pittsburgh Steelers. The Patriots went on to lose the ‘86 final to the Chicago Bears – a 46-10 blowout loss. But the Steelers continued their momentum, defeating Seattle 21-10 as four-point favorites.

Although the Super Bowl is technically at a neutral venue in Arizona, the Giants have been designated as the visiting team.

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NFL
What bettors need to know…….

Sunday, February 3

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What bettors need to know: Giants vs. Patriots
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What bettors need to know: Super Bowl XLII

New York Giants vs. New England Patriots
Sunday, Feb. 3, 6:30 p.m. ET (-12, 53 ½)

Line moves

Some Vegas sportsbooks opened with New England favored by as many as 13 ½ points. Since then, heavy action on New York has moved the line to Patriots -12 at most Vegas and offshore books. The game’s total has held steady between 53 ½ and 54 points.

Brady’s boot

On Monday, Tom Brady was photographed heading from an SUV to his girlfriend Gisele Bundchen's apartment in New York on what looked like a walking cast on his right foot.

"Ah, you know, there's always bumps and bruises. I'll be ready for the Super Bowl," Brady said Monday during his weekly radio appearance on WEEI. "I'm not worried about that. I'm not missing this one. I'd have to be on a stretcher to miss this one. There will be treatment this week. In games like this, you get a little nicked up. It's nothing serious."

Stay tuned for updates.

Raising Arizona

The Super Bowl will be played at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The stadium, which opened Aug. 1, 2006, features a retractable grass field and roof and should accommodate more than 73,000 fans.

Slaying the Giants

New York gave up 80 combined points in its first two games of the season, both of which, not surprisingly, ended up as straight up and ATS losses. Since then, the Giants have held 14 of their last 17 opponents to 24 points or fewer with only Dallas, Minnesota and New England topping that total. The Giants lost all three of those games, covering only against New England in Week 17’s 38-35 loss.

The kicking game

New York’s Lawrence Tynes was 23-of-27 in his field goal attempts in the regular season, with all four of his misses coming on kicks from less than 40 yards out. Tynes missed two huge field goal attempts during the NFC championship game, but he hit the one that counted in overtime from 47 yards. His longest kick of the year was a 48-yarder.

Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski hit 21 of his 24 regular season field goal attempts, with two misses from outside 40 yards. He has only attempted two field goals in the playoffs, hitting one of them. His longest kick of the year was a 45-yarder.

Super stats

The Giants are 5-0 in their last five against the spread and against teams with a winning record.

The Patriots are 0-5 in their last five against the spread.

The favored team has gone 9-3 straight up and 4-6-2 against the spread in the last dozen Super Bowls.

Teams that score more than 27 points in the Super Bowl are 23-1 and 22-2-1 against the spread. New England has averaged 35.6 points per game, while New York averages 23.2.

Recent meetings

The two teams have split the last four meetings between them dating back to 2005, but the Giants covered the number in three of those games. The over cashed in three times as well.

Notable injuries:

New England:
Tom Brady QB - (ankle) probable.
Mike Wright DE - (foot) IR
Rosevelt Colvin LB - (foot) IR
Sammy Morris RB - (chest) IR
David Thomas TE - (foot) IR

New York:
Rich Seubert OG - (knee) questionable
Craig Dahl S - (knee) IR
Jeremy Shockey TE - (leg) IR
Derrick Ward RB – (fibula) IR
Mathias Kiwanuka LB – (leg) IR
Robert Douglas FB – (knee) IR
Adrian Awasom DL – (back) IR
Jim Finn FB – (shoulder) IR
Will Demps SS – (elbow) IR

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NFL
Key Matchups

Sunday, February 3

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Giants vs. Patriots: the key matchups
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Matchups for the Super Bowl between the New York Giants and New England Patriots on Feb. 3 at the University of Phoenix Stadium:

When the Giants have the ball

Having scored 35 points in their season-finale loss to New England, the Giants know they can move the ball on the Patriots. Moving the ball is not enough, though. Nor is kicking field goals. New York must reach the end zone several times, while also trying to use up the clock.

That means Brandon Jacobs (27) and Ahmad Bradshaw (44) running often. Both have been particularly effective down the stretch, with the rookie Bradshaw breaking some long runs. New England is most vulnerable in that area, although calling the Patriots' run defense a weakness would be an exaggeration.

Linebackers Tedy Bruschi (54), Mike Vrabel (50), Junior Seau (55) and Adalius Thomas (96) will be kept busy by those running backs. The Giants could be without left guard Rich Seubert (69), who hurt his knee, which won't help against the assortment of defensive linemen New England uses. The star is Richard Seymour (93), who missed half the season recovering from a knee injury and has not been particularly dynamic yet. But Ty Warren (94) and Vince Wilfork (75) certainly have been, and Jarvis Green (97) provides depth up front.

New York's blocking has been superb in the playoffs, providing ample protection for Eli Manning (10) and opening wide holes for the running backs. Tackle David Diehl (66) and guard Chris Snee (76) have been particularly impressive.

If Manning gets the same amount of time he's received recently, his hookups with WRs Plaxico Burress (17) and Amani Toomer (81), and rookies Steve Smith (12) and TE Kevin Boss (89) will give the Patriots plenty of trouble. Burress is not the deep threat the Patriots' Randy Moss (81) provides, but he's nearly as dangerous because of his size, good hands and athletic ability. Burress also has been at his healthiest recently, which makes him a matchup problem for Asante Samuel (22) and Ellis Hobbs (27).

Manning has been at his most accurate, playing the best football of his four-year career. His playoff numbers - particularly four touchdowns to no interceptions and a 99.2 rating - are worthy of brother Peyton, last year's Super Bowl MVP.

When the Patriots have the ball

Unquestionably, the key for New York is slowing Moss, who overwhelmed Giants cornerbacks and safeties in the last meeting. Moss had six receptions for 100 yards and two TDs as he broke Jerry Rice's NFL mark with 23 touchdown catches. While Corey Webster (23) has made some big plays in the postseason, he'll need help from Gibril Wilson (28) and the other safeties. The Giants must be aggressive in their approach against Moss.

Of course, that usually leaves Wes Welker (83) with single coverage, and Welker can be destructive on underneath routes. He had 11 catches for 122 yards in the season finale.

There's also Donte' Stallworth (18) and Jabar Gaffney (10) for New York cornerbacks Webster, Sam Madison (29), rookie Aaron Ross (31) and R.W. McQuarters (25) to deal with. The safeties have to handle tight end Benjamin Watson (84), who's extremely dangerous in the red zone.

Plus, there's RB Kevin Faulk (33) on screens, flares and other short passes he turns into decent gains, particularly on first down. Faulk also is terrific on third downs for the highest-scoring offense in league history.

Faulk won't do a lot of running with RB Laurence Maroney (39) now a focal point of the offense. Maroney has run for 244 yards and two TDs and is averaging 5.2 yards per carry.

Engineering it all is the league MVP, Tom Brady (12), who is 3-0 in Super Bowls, twice earning MVP honors. Unless the Giants get ample pressure on Brady with their standout linemen - Michael Strahan (92), Osi Umenyiora (72), Justin Tuck (91) and Fred Robbins (98) - and linebacker Antonio Pierce (58), Brady might get a third individual trophy.

Brady supposedly has a slight ankle injury. Or maybe coach Bill Belichick invented that to make his superb offensive line even stauncher in their protection. Tackle Matt Light (72), guard Logan Mankins (70) and center Dan Koppen (67) are the standouts.

Special Teams

Adam Vinatieri played a leading role in all three Patriots Super Bowl victories, and then won a title with Indianapolis last year. Now Stephen Gostkowski (3) does the placekicking, and he's money.

Lawrence Tynes (9) was inconsistent in his first year with the Giants, and he missed two potential winning field goals at frigid Green Bay in the title game. But he made a 47-yarder to send New York to the Super Bowl.

Patriots punter Chris Hanson (6) didn't get used much during the season, and his gross average in the playoffs is 38.0 yards, less than 20-year veteran Jeff Feagles' net. Feagles (18) is appearing in his first Super Bowl despite two decades in the league.

Neither team has dangerous threats on kick or punt returns, although Domenik Hixon (87) has given the Giants a late-season spark. Hobbs had a 108-yard kickoff return, but that was in the opener.

Coaching

A matchup of former colleagues with the Giants under Bill Parcells. Belichick has won three titles with the Patriots and, given two weeks to prepare for a team, he is virtually unbeatable. Then again, his team has been totally unbeatable this season.

The 2007 Coach of the Year despite the Spygate scandal that cost him a $500,000 league fine, Belichick will come up with a variety of defensive schemes to confuse Manning. His offense will be full-throttle all game.

Coughlin's work this season has been very impressive, too. The Giants were 8-8 in 2006 and barely squeezed into the playoffs, where they lost in the first round. Another such performance might have led to his firing.

Instead, he's improved his relationship with the players and, during the postseason, he's developed solid game plans that the Giants have executed magnificently. Coughlin heads to his first Super Bowl as a head coach with a contract extension certain.

Intangibles

New York simply doesn't lose on the road, and the Giants are the designated away team at University of Phoenix Stadium. They've won 10 straight away games, and they have outplayed all three opponents in the playoffs on both sides of the ball.

Don't forget that they tested the Patriots on Dec. 29, even led by 12 points in the third quarter. And all the pressure is on New England.

Not that the Patriots care about pressure. They are the, uh, perfect example of a team that responds to whatever challenge. This is the best version of any of the Pats teams to make the Super Bowl this decade, and their undefeated record has placed them in a glaring spotlight for months.

New England is experienced, well-rounded and incredibly focused on this championship.

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NFL
Line Report

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NFL – Super Bowl line report
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(01-20-08)

Patriots heavy favorites against Giants at Vegas sports books

LAS VEGAS (AP) -New England Patriots fans who want to bet on their team in the Super Bowl will face a significant point spread against the underdog Giants as quarterback Tom Brady aims for a 19-0 record and fourth championship ring.

The Patriots are favored by 13 to 14 points against the New York Giants (13-6) at Las Vegas sports books, a higher-than-normal spread to entice underdog bettors on the biggest booked game of the season.

''The Patriots are still considered by far the best team in the league,'' said Jay Kornegay, sports book director at the Las Vegas Hilton. ''We obviously make that line to get equal action on both sides. To do that, because of the perception of the Patriots, we have to increase their number more than usual.''

Bets were flowing in on the Patriots early in the season as they destroyed opponents and the spread, but the team has won by a margin that was larger than the spread only once in its last eight games, said Chuck Esposito, Caesars Palace's assistant vice president of race and sports book operations.

''A game of this magnitude, historically you'll see some money on the favorite,'' said Esposito, who put the Patriots as 14-point favorites. ''I think that's one of the reasons that the number might be a little bit high.''

The spread is the point difference oddsmakers set to even out lopsided matchups. A bettor who put $110 on the Patriots would need the team to beat the Giants by at least 14 or 15 points to get back $210, which includes his original bet.

Oddsmakers set the total score of the two teams at around 55. Bettors can wager that the final total will be more or less than that amount.

Kornegay predicted a record handle at Nevada sports books, topping the $94.5 million record set in 2006 when Pittsburgh beat Seattle 21-10.

The Patriots are trying to become the second team in NFL history to go undefeated. They already beat the Giants this season, winning 38-35 in the regular-season finale.

''The Giants played right with them for the majority of the game,'' Esposito said. ''And there will be another Manning (New York quarterback Eli Manning) in the Big Game.''

MGM Mirage Inc. sports book director Robert Walker expected the handle in Nevada sports books to hit $100 million.

''I think with the New York team and the Patriots being the most popular team in football, it has the makings of being a special game,'' he said.

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Pats always Super Bowl faves
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(01-28-08)

The New England Patriots are sitting as 12-point favorites to get past the New York Giants and win the Super Bowl on Sunday - but where were they listed in the summer?

During our rundown of the Super Bowl odds back in June we found that the Vegas oddsmakers had spurned the defending-champion Indianapolis Colts and instead pegged Tom Brady and company as the favorites. New England was installed at 5/1 championship odds at that time, while Indianapolis was just a bit behind them at 11/2.

So if you wagered on the Patriots to win Super Bowl XLII back in June you're now waiting for that 5/1 payoff on Sunday night. On the other hand, if you wagered on the Colts to win a second consecutive championship this year you're down a bit of money.

How did the rest of the National Football League fare on those early lines? The San Diego Chargers were third at 6/1 odds, followed by the Chicago Bears at 8/1, and the Baltimore Ravens at 10/1. The New Orleans Saints were pegged at 12/1 odds to win the title, while the Cincinnati Bengals and the Seattle Seahawks were both at 15/1. Of those six teams only the Chargers and the Seahawks managed to make the postseason.

The other eight playoff teams this season all began the year with Super Bowl odds of 20/1 or worse. The Dallas Cowboys led that group at 20/1, while the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers were at 25/1. The Green Bay Packers and the Washington Redskins were both back on the list at just 50/1 odds, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sitting at 60/1, and the Tennessee Titans close to the bottom at 70/1 odds.

And what about the Giants, who could still pay off on that futures bet this weekend? Vegas had Eli Manning's team sitting at 30/1 odds to win the Super Bowl back in June.

If you'd like to skip ahead to next year's Super Bowl and lock in some longshots you can find those early championship odds provided by the Vegas oddsmakers right now. The biggest money can be made on huge turnarounds by the Atlanta Falcons and the Miami Dolphins - should one of those clubs get an unlikely Super Bowl win they pay at 150/1.

Four other teams are listed at 100/1 odds or higher to win Super Bowl XLIII - the Kansas City Chiefs are at 100/1, while each of the Ravens, Oakland Raiders, and San Francisco 49ers are at 125/1. However, no team listed at 100/1 odds or worse by the Vegas oddsmakers in the preseason last season managed to advance to the playoffs.

So who is listed as the favorite for next year's Super Bowl? The same team that is currently the favorite to win this year's Super Bowl. The Patriots are sitting high atop the odds list for next year's championship at 5/2, with the Cowboys and Colts the closest teams to them at 6/1. Next up are Brett Favre's Packers, who are pegged with 7/1 odds.

The Giants are in the Super Bowl this week, but that feat only has them listed seventh at 12/1 odds to win next year's championship - the Jaguars and Chargers are also ahead of them at 10/1. The Seahawks and Steelers are both listed at 18/1 odds to win Super Bowl XLIII, while the Bucs are 28/1, and the Titans and Redskins sit at 30/1 odds.

The Saints and Bears both fell to 7-9 this season, but they're listed at modest 20/1 and 25/1 odds, respectively, to win next year's Super Bowl. The Cleveland Browns had the most wins of any non-playoff team this year, and they're at 30/1 to get into the next postseason and win it all. The Cincinnati Bengals, Denver Broncos, and Minnesota Vikings are at 38/1, while the Philadelphia Eagles and the Arizona Cardinals are at 45/1.

Bigger longshots to win Super Bowl XLIII include the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, and Houston Texans, who all opened at lucrative 60/1 odds to become the champions. The New York Jets and the St. Louis Rams trail on that list at 75/1 odds.

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Super Bowl action report: Oddsmakers tell all
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(Note: Any reference to a specific book or web site has been deleted)

Wondering what’s going on at the sportsbooks a few days before the Super Bowl?

What’s the action been like so far? Are you seeing increased betting as we get closer to Sunday?

Bill Nevin, oddsmaker: I would say 95 percent of the action is on the day. Generally the only people betting now are sharps or people who are going to be away from their computers or phones at the weekend. Most people only start to think about a Super Bowl wager at about lunchtime on Sunday.

Ken White, consultant: So far so good, the early wagering has been about average. But we can expect about 80 percent of the overall handle to be wagered on Super Bowl weekend.

Francis Doyle, oddsmaker: The action has been fantastic. A team going for the first perfect season since 1972 against a team from the biggest city in the USA. What’s not to like there?

Where’s most of the action coming in on, the points or the chalk, over or under?

Randy Scott, sportsbook manager: The early action has been based on the pointspread. When the line opened at -13 the early bettors came in heavy on New York and there was only light betting on the New England side. That made the line drop to -12 ½ , then -12 and now -11 ½. This week is different, New England bettors are beginning to get down - and with confidence. The per-bet volume ratio for this game is 2:1 in favor of the Giants, yet the bet amount per-side is almost even - that means Patriots backers are betting more money.

Bill Nevin: All the early money was for the Giants but as the week has gone on the support has all been for the Pats. At 10 a.m. today 81 percent of the pointspread wagers are on New England -12, and 56 percent of the cash has been on the over.

Ken White: All of the early wagering has been professional money on the New York Giants. The injury news concerning Tom Brady led professionals to take an early lead. Most professionals are siding against a slight inflated line for the Patriots anyway, so the news of Brady in a walking boot pushed the sharp money the window. Early total action was on the under, however since this past weekend more money has shown up for the over creating balance action.

Francis Doyle: The line was set high initially on the basis that squares would eat up the chalk. This has not happened, and the Giants are proving quite a popular pick. Even the general sports media are giving the Giants far more of a chance than they gave the Patriots themselves against the Rams six years ago. People believe in the Giants. So far.

How much action are you expecting for game day?

Randy Scott: Sunday will draw 50 percent of the overall expected action. Meaning our action will double in volume on that day.

Bill Nevin: We expect to be up about 10 percent on last year. It’s not a total glamour tie but it’s good to have New York represented as it boosts handle. It is always best when it is two big city teams in terms of handle, but I think this is an interesting matchup so the handle will be reasonable.

Ken White: I expect the State of Nevada will surpass the record handle of 94.5 billion.

Do you think the line will hold firm until kickoff? If not, which way might it move and why would that be?

Randy Scott: I think we'll see a steady increase in action stay on the Patriots as the weekend approaches. That should raise the line back up to the opening number, maybe more come Super Bowl Sunday.

Bill Nevin: Twelve seems like a pretty solid line unless there is any injury news. Our linesmakers would be reluctant to move off that unless the public became really caught up with the Pats.

Ken White: With Tom Brady looking more like himself and general public money outweighing professional money on game day, the line will go back up to 13 or 13 1/2.

Francis Doyle: We’re expecting action all the way to the kickoff and beyond, but we expect the line to hold steady. We’ll be doing live betting during the game which we expect to be popular too.

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NFL
Reports

for Sunday’s game (February 3)

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Reports: Super Bowl
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NFL Rumors

Walking wounded: Brady spotted in cast
Monday, Jan 21, 2008 11:44 pm EST

AP
Fans of the New England Patriots had to be swallowing hard Monday when pictures of quarterback Tom Brady sporting a walking cast on his right foot surfaced.

A video taken of Brady in New York Sunday, which is available on TMZ, shows the NFL's MVP returning to girlfriend Gisele Bundchen's apartment. He's walking gingerly on the sidewalk after emerging from a black SUV parked on the street.

During his weekly appearance on WEEI's "Dennis and Callahan" show, Brady didn't dismiss the notion he had suffered some type of leg injury during Sunday's AFC Championship win. "Ah, you know, there's always bumps and bruises. I'll be ready for the Super Bowl," Brady said, when asked point-blank if he had a leg injury.

Source: Boston Herald

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UPDATE

Brady's injury minor - Boot is seen as just a precaution

Boston Globe / January 23, 2008

The sight of star quarterback Tom Brady wearing a protective boot over his right foot Monday had New York tabloids buzzing and Patriots followers fearing the worst, but the injury is not serious.

Brady has a high right ankle sprain, according to an NFL source, which explains why he was wearing the device during a visit to New York. The sprain, which is minor, will not jeopardize Brady's chances of playing in Super Bowl XLII Feb. 3, the source said.

Both the Patriots and Giants are not required to submit an injury report until a week from today. The Patriots do not return to practice until tomorrow.

Two medical experts, neither of whom is treating Brady, indicated that he likely was wearing the boot as a preventative measure.

"Since two weeks remain [to the game], the medical/training staff may have determined that using this short leg walker would provide some relief of pressure, and provide support and rest, even if it was a minor injury," said Dr. Michael A. Robinson, a sports podiatrist and foot surgeon based in Brookline. "The short leg walker would help promote more rapid recovery."

Dr. Nicholas DiNubile, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, further described the benefit of the boot.

"It is a way to rest that body part and prevent the normal movement that goes on with everyday walking," said DiNubile, who serves as an orthopedic consultant to the Philadelphia 76ers. "That allows things to settle down because it's protecting that area and preventing the motions.

"Not knowing the specifics, it looks to me that they just wanted to put it to rest for a day or two."

Brady's foot became a hot topic when he was photographed in New York City Monday afternoon. Gossip website TMZ.com also posted a 1-minute-18-second video clip of Brady and his girlfriend, Gisele Bundchen, which showed Brady favoring his right foot.

Later in the night, Brady was photographed again in New York City, but without the boot.

Brady's father was a guest on 1510 ESPN radio in New York yesterday, and said that if the injury were serious, Brady would have spoken to him about it. Tom Brady Sr. also said that there is no question Brady will play.

"If he had to go out there with two crutches and a cast on each leg, he is playing," Brady Sr. said. "He won't voluntarily walk off the field. Anybody that thinks a little tweak is going to stop [him] is just wasting ink."

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TOM'S PLAYING PATRIOT GAMES

January 25, 2008-- FOXBOROUGH - Who said the Patriots don't have a game until Super Bowl XXLII against the Giants on Feb. 3 in Arizona?
They played a game yesterday - a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game of hide-and-seek with their superstar quarterback Tom Brady.

Should there be there considerable concern about the health of Brady and his famously photographed ailing right ankle?

The footsie-playing Patriots would love the Giants to think so.

On the Patriots players' first day back to work after three days off, Brady was nowhere to be found - at least during the periods when reporters had access to the locker room and practice field, which was perfectly choreographed.

Giants Notes: Guarded Optimism

A Couple of Friendly Enemies

Brady was more visible on the streets of Manhattan squiring his supermodel girlfriend Gisele Bundchen around early this week than he was at the team's practice facility yesterday at Gillette Stadium.

He was a no-show in the locker room during the period it was opened to reporters, and Patriots' officials said he would not be available for interviews.

And then, about an hour later, he was a no-show on the practice field during the short window during which the media is permitted to attend.

A ruse?

Absolutely.

A mind game from Bill Belichick?

Bet on it.

Plax: Pats Don't Have Best Wide Receivers

Don't Bet Against Them

The Giants, however, are unlikely to fall for this banana-in-the-tailpipe trick.

In fact, listening to some of Brady's teammates yesterday, you got the distinct impression that there isn't a significant amount of concern about Brady's health.

Several players, in fact, were amused by the attention L'Affaire Brady has attracted, and none seemed concerned that their record-shattering MVP leader would be affected in the least come Super Bowl XLII.

"I mean, it was a walking boot, wasn't it?" Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour said, referring to the photos published in The Post this week of Brady wearing a protective boot on his right foot to protect what is believed to be a mild high ankle sprain. "The New York media wanted to make more out of it than it was. New York, New York, what can you say?

"Every channel I turned to, there it was," Seymour added. "The funny part - the good part - was the flowers (Brady was carrying to Bundchen's West Village apartment). I was (focused) on the flowers, not on the boot. I went and got my wife flowers after seeing that.

"Obviously, Tom can speak for himself (though he chose not to yesterday), but I don't foresee him not being in this game."

Nor do any of Brady's other teammates.

"He's fine. Tommy's the least of my worries. I'm going to put on a boot and see if you guys follow me around," Patriots fullback Heath Evans said.

"He's going to play, man, don't even worry about it," Patriots veteran running back Kevin Faulk said. "If the game would have been today (yesterday) he was going to play. If the game would have been on Monday or Tuesday or whenever the report (from New York) was, he was going to play. Tom is going to be all right and that's it. Simple as that. No more Tom questions, please."

Tough Mann Contest

Strahan, Captain Clutch an Inspiration

Unfortunately for the Patriots players, who were besieged with the Brady questions yesterday, the team's handling of it - purposely creating a shroud of mystery - has perpetuated the mini-hysteria.

Belichick, for example, appeared almost giddy (for him) when he began fielding questions about his quarterback.

"I don't have any comment on it," he said initially.

When asked if Brady would practice, Belichick said, "We'll go out there . . . I don't know."

A moment later, he smirked, "The injury report will be out next Wednesday and we're excited to get that to you. (It'll be) filled out completely and I can't wait to get that to you, because I know you're anxious for it."

Of course, on cue from Belichick, Patriots officials declined to say whether Brady participated in any part of the practice session.

The Patriots will conduct another practice today and players who choose to make themselves available will be speak to reporters again.

All eyes, of course, will be in search of Brady. Let the games continue.

Source: New York Post

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Bootless Brady looks fine at Super arrival

Patriots QB acknowledges injury, but says he'll be fine

The Associated Press
updated 6:54 p.m. PT, Sun., Jan. 27, 2008

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - Relax, Patriots fans. A smiling Tom Brady says not to worry about his much publicized and photographed ankle. It won’t keep him out of Sunday’s Super Bowl.

New England’s star quarterback walked up the three short steps to the podium with ease Sunday night, showing no signs of the right ankle injury that had become such a hot topic since he was spotted wearing a protective boot last Monday.

“It’s feeling good. I’ll be ready to go,” Brady said as the AFC champions met the media for the first time shortly after arriving in Phoenix.

It was also the first time Brady acknowledged he was injured in the AFC championship game.

“It was in the San Diego game, I think in the third quarter,” Brady said, referring to the Patriots’ 21-12 victory last Sunday.

Brady hasn’t practiced since, but said he moved a little bit during the week and “shuffled around.”

“I’m not concerned about how it’s going to affect my play,” he said. “This won’t keep me out.”

The face of New England’s franchise reportedly has a minor high ankle sprain. He wore a protective boot on his right foot last Monday in New York while visiting supermodel girlfriend Gisele Bundchen, causing a major stir and concern among Patriots fans.

“I was just trying to get into the house as fast as I could,” Brady said. “I was trying to hobble along. It kind of caught me off guard.”

New England will try to become the first team in NFL history to finish 19-0 when it plays the New York Giants in the Super Bowl next Sunday.

After returning to Foxborough on Wednesday, Brady wasn’t spotted by the media the next two days while reporters were allowed into the locker room and at practice.

“I was glad to be back in New England and in the insulated atmosphere of our locker room,” he said.

It sure wasn’t safe on the streets of New York for Brady.

“Yeah, it’s been an interesting week,” he said. “I’m much lighter on my toes than I thought.”

Brady also issued a playful warning: “Don’t any of you chase me around. I won’t be nearly as nice as I was last week.”

That was when he was followed by paparazzi as he exited a taxi in New York, with a handful of flowers for his girlfriend. Later that day and on Tuesday, he wasn’t wearing the boot when photographed.

“It’s just part of the world we’re living in,” he said. “Those places I went for refuge, I guess I can’t go anymore. If we were 0-16, nobody would (care).”

Coach Bill Belichick, who spoke before Brady, wouldn’t address the injury or Brady’s status.

“We’ll update our injury report on Wednesday,” Belichick said with a smirk. “And, I look forward to it, too.”

When Brady was asked, he grinned and said, “How’s the ankle? What did Coach say?”

The reporter responded with: “He said ask you.”

Brady laughed and shook his head.

“Did he?” he said. “Wow, that’s different.”

Brady, who stood at the podium in a navy, pinstriped suit, with a navy vest and his white shirt open at the collar, smiled throughout the news conference and was in a playful mood. When asked about the ankle once again, he interrupted the reporter and said, “Last question of the week.”

He then went through the details one more time and closed with, “Good? That work?”

Earlier Sunday, Brady appeared in front of reporters and photographers in Foxborough for the first time since the game against the Chargers. At a departure rally shortly before the team buses left for their trip to Phoenix, he walked without slipping on a light dusting of snow on the Gillette Stadium field as flurries fell.

“Now this is Foxborough faithful right here,” Brady told the cheering crowd of about 15,000 after he reached the podium at midfield along the Patriots sideline. “We can just go ahead and play the game today. Thank you guys for coming out.”

================================================== =============

**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:54 AM

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Vegas - the Only Place Patriots Don't Win
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Although the rest of the sporting world may look at the Patriots as being one win away from completing a perfect season, Las Vegas views them through a much different prism.

To the oddsmakers on the Strip, the 18-0 Patriots are really 10-8.

"As far as the pointspread goes, that's correct," said Chuck Esposito, director of the race and sports book at Caesars Palace, where the Patriots were installed last week as 14-point favorites over the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII Sunday.

"Granted, it's a lot of points," Esposito said, "but we looked for a number that would draw good two-way action [an equal number of bets on both teams]. We're not predicting who is going to win or lose, but it's a pointspread that we feel is going to draw good two-way action."

Since its initial release, however, the pointspread has gone down to 121/2, which, oddsmakers say, is not so much a reflection of the recent news about quarterback Tom Brady's right ankle sprain as it is of the Patriots' 2-7 record against the spread in their past nine games.

"[Brady] would probably affect the line more than anybody in the NFL; maybe Peyton Manning could rival him," said Tony Sinisi, odds director at Las Vegas Sports Consultants. "But it might be a 10-point drop if it went from Tom Brady to Matt Cassel. It would probably go down to New England 3. But there's not any feeling out there that Brady won't play."

Before news broke about Brady's ankle, "I think the betting public was looking for value and felt that, at 13 or 14, there was just too good a value on the Giants," Esposito said. "They have covered nine out of 10 road games and have won 10 straight road games and covered all three playoff games."

It has prompted many bettors to take the Giants and the points.

"We opened the Super Bowl line at 14 and it quickly moved from 14 to 131/2, and ever since then, it's been dropping little by little," said Jay Kornegay, executive director of the race and sports book at the Las Vegas Hilton, who estimated that 70 percent of the early action has been on the Giants.

"It's a little odd, because the favorite in the Super Bowl is always inflated and in this case, it's no different. This is one line that we make that's geared toward the general public, because the general public's money always dominates the action in the Super Bowl. When we put that line out, we expected a little bit more support on the Patriots and we haven't seen that yet, but we're hoping it comes out later."

At the beginning of the season, the Patriots were a sure bet after they trampled not only their opposition en route to an 8-0 start, but the Vegas sports books as well, beating the spread in those wins. Their perfect record (against the spread, that is) was blemished when they failed to cover as a 5-point favorite in a 24-20 triumph at Indianapolis Nov. 4.

"Actually, the Patriots all season long have been a thorn in our side," Kornegay said. "It's a team we just cannot figure out. We took it in the shorts for pretty much two-thirds of the season. The last game that we won -- one of the games that we won -- was the Eagles game [a 31-28 Patriots triumph]. That was the last game we saw this huge snowball effect of support for the Patriots.

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----------------------------------------------------------------------
“Six Pack” Super Bowl notes
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Six quick, random thoughts on the Super Bowl

-- Patriots are 3-0 in Super Bowls under Belichick, but won all three games by a field goal.

-- New England is 12-point favorite; they were 12-point dog in their first Super Bowl win, against the Rams.

-- Belichick and Tom Coughlin coached together with the Giants from 1988-1990.

-- Don't forget, when Giants led New England 26-14 in the second half Dec 30, before losing 38-35, when Randy Moss got loose for some long passes in fourth quarter.

-- Eli Manning played college football in the SEC, where games against Alabama, LSU, Auburn are treated like the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras rolled into one. He'll do fine.

-- Must respect Patriots' 18-0 record, the best record ever in the NFL, to this point. Its going to take a supreme effort to beat them; they've taken everyone's best shot so far.

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----------------------------------------------------------------------
Super Bowl XLII –Preview
----------------------------------------------------------------------

It's fair to say that the Super Bowl is undoubtedly the most watched sporting event of the year and is also the largest wagered event in all of sports. Super Bowl's bring both experienced and novice bettors together for this one day in the calendar year. After reading this article even the novice bettor will be wiser come Super Bowl XLII.

The Super Bowl has a number of variants that are not associated to any regular season game. Teams have two weeks of rest and time to prepare, and of course there is the neutral field. It's no longer the case as it was back in the 80's and the early years of the 90's when it was simply a matter of putting one's money down on the team from the NFC. The NFC does however hold a 21-20 SU and 20-18-3 ATS edge all time, and has covered the spread in three of the last five Super Bowls.

From a statistical view point, four key areas have more relevance to who will win than anything else. These areas are: time of possession, rushing yards, passing yards per attempt and turnovers. Let's take a look.

> Teams that have possession of the football for more than 30 minutes are 31-10 SU and 29-9-3 ATS.

> Teams who have more rushing yards are 34-7 SU and 30-8-3 ATS.

> Teams that gain more yards per pass attempt are 35-6 SU and 30-8-3 ATS.

> Teams that win the turnover battle are 38-3 SU and 32-6-3 ATS.

When any team has an advantage in at least three of the above four stats, that team is 35-1 SU and 30-5-1 ATS. On 23 occasions, one team had all four statistical edges. They have been money in the bank, recording a record of 23-0 SU and 21-1-1 ATS. That said, New England had the edge in 2005 in all four categories, yet were the only team not to cover the number.

It is often said that defense wins championships and those words still hold true more often than not. Over the last 20 years, the team that wins the Super Bowl averages just under 31 points per game. It’s not often a team wins without scoring 21 points or more. The last team to do it was Pittsburgh back in Super Bowl IX when they defeated Minnesota 16-6.

The favored team has only been lined at less than a touchdown in five of the last 22 Super Bowls. Double-digit favorites are 4-3-1 ATS since 1986, but since 1996 these large chalks are 2-2 SU (two losers being Rams in 2002 and Packers in 1998) and 0-3-1 ATS.

The last 22 Super Bowls have had an average posted total of 46.4 points.

There have been ten games played inside a dome in Super Bowl history. The average points scored in those ten games is 45.2. Posted totals have only been available over the last 22 years and during this period 14 games have gone 'Over' the total, including 9 of the last 15. Five of those six 'Unders' have occurred since the turn of the century with an Over /Under line of at least 47 points.

Super Bowl favorites have won straight up 29 times out of the previous 41 tries and have a slight edge against the number with a 21-17-3 mark. That record doesn't tell the whole picture though. Take out the dominating years by the 49'ers and the Cowboys (1985 to 1995) when the favorite covered 8 of the 11 years, including double-digit favs going a perfect 4-0 ATS, it is true to say that the underdog has certainly had its day, as since 1996, the dog is 6-3-2 ATS. As in most cases, the straight up winner usually covers the number evidenced by the fact that Super Bowl winners are 33-5-3 ATS all-time. However, two of those five non-covers came in 2004 and 2005, so beware!

Since 1999, two teams (New England in 2002 and St Louis in 1999) have sought revenge for a regular season loss against their Super Bowl opponent. In both of those games the team that lost the regular season game ended up getting revenge and winning the Super Bowl.

Some further trends that may be of some use.

> The higher playoff seed is 1-9-2 ATS in the last 12 Super Bowls.

> The team with the better record going into the game is 27-10 SU.

> If one (but not both) of the road teams win in the Conference Championship round, they are 5-2 SU and 6-1 ATS in the Super Bowl.

> Teams that won outright as underdogs in the Conference Championship round are 10-6-1 ATS in the Super Bowl since 1981, including 4-0 ATS since 2002.

> If one of the teams has allowed their previous two opponents to score two touchdowns or less, the game has gone over 78% of the time.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:57 AM

National Basketball Association – Write up

NBA
Write-up

Thursday, January 31

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Today's NBA analysis

Hot Teams
-- Pistons won last three games, by 8-8-6 points.
-- Mavericks won four in row, 12 of last 14 games. Celtics won five of their last seven games.
-- Cavaliers won eleven of their last thirteen games.
-- Suns won seven of their last eight games.

Cold Teams
-- Lakers lost four of their last six games.
-- Sonics lost fourteen of their last fifteen games.
-- Spurs lost three in row, covered two of last nine games.

Previous meetings this season
-- Pistons (+4) lost 103-91 at the Lakers Nov 16.
-- Sonics (+9.5) lost 95-79 in Cleveland Jan 8.
-- Suns (+6.5) won 100-95 in San Antonio Dec 17.

Totals
-- Three of last four Detroit games went over the total.
-- Under is 9-3 in last twelve Dallas road games.
-- Under is 12-6 in Cleveland's last eighteen games.
-- Last nine San Antonio games stayed under the total.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 03:58 AM

National Basketball Association - Tips & Trends

NBA

Thursday, January 31

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Tips and Trends
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Los Angeles Lakers at Detroit Pistons (7:30 PM ET)

LA begins its longest road trip in franchise history in Detroit, a 9-game trek that covers 14 days. The Lakers will travel a total of 8,173 miles, and they have lost 8 in a row at The Palace of Auburn Hills by an average of nearly 16 points. LA star Kobe Bryant has averaged just 21.4 points in 20 lifetime meetings with the Pistons, his lowest scoring average against any opponent. EDGE: PISTONS
Detroit has won 3 games in a row after dropping 6 of 9, which followed a season-high 11-game winning streak. The Pistons open a 5-game homestand against the Lakers and are 15-4 SU at The Palace this season. "We're just playing ball," Detroit's Rasheed Wallace said. "We've run into some teams that are all geeked up to play us and that just lets us know that we're still one of the top teams in this league." EDGE: PISTONS
The Lakers are hurting not only without center Andrew Bynum but also sans Trevor Ariza (broken right foot) and Luke Walton (hip), who injured himself in the 1st quarter of a win over the Knicks on Wednesday. Sasha Vujacic has averaged 10.8 points in his last 6 games and will need to step up if Walton can't go. "Everybody loves to play," Vujacic said. "My moment has arrived here with the Lakers. Unfortunately, it's because of injuries." EDGE: PISTONS
Pistons are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 home games.
Lakers are 1-7 ATS in the last 8 meetings in Detroit.
Lakers are 3-11-1 ATS in the last 15 meetings.
Lakers are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 Thursday games.
The UNDER is 37-15-1 in LAL last 53 vs. Central Division.
The UNDER is 39-13-1 in Detroit's last 53 Thursday games.

Dallas Mavericks at Boston Celtics (TNT | 8 PM ET)

Boston had no problems crushing the Heat on Wednesday without Kevin Garnett (abdominal injury) and Ray Allen (flu). The Celtics won by 30 points but will face a bigger challenge at home hosting Dallas. Allen is more likely to play while Garnett could be held out longer to prevent a more serious injury. "If he can play Thursday, we'll play him," Boston head coach Doc Rivers said. "But again, it's got to be almost 100 percent. That's the way I look at those types of injuries." EDGE: MAVS
Dallas cruised to an easy 103-84 win at Memphis on Monday but now must play 3 Eastern Conference division leaders to close out a 4-game road trip. "It's going to be a tough trip," Mavs star Dirk Nowitzki said. "Boston is the best team right now in the league. Best record. We all know what Detroit is like at home. They're tough to beat. It's going to be a fun trip. Very tough." SLIGHT EDGE: CELTICS
Celtics are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 home games.
Mavs are 9-4-1 ATS in the last 14 meetings and have won the last 7 games between the teams SU.
The OVER is 7-3 in Boston's last 10 home games.
The UNDER is 9-3 in Dallas' last 12 road games.
The UNDER is 16-7 in Dallas' last 23 overall.

Cleveland Cavaliers at Seattle SuperSonics (10 PM ET)

Cleveland is coming off a thrilling victory at Portland on Wednesday, as LeBron James made a reverse layup with less than a second left to win the game. The Cavs have won 5 straight on the road for the 1st time in almost 10 years, and they are 11-2 SU in 2008. BIG EDGE: CAVS
Seattle snapped a team-record 14-game losing streak with an 88-85 win over San Antonio on Tuesday. Rookie Kevin Durant hit the go-ahead jumper with 32.6 seconds left and admitted this was a huge weight lifted off his shoulders. "It was like we won the championship," Durant said. "It was a big-time win for us." That being said, insiders believe there could be a huge letdown after breaking the skid. EDGE: CAVS
The OVER is 6-2 in Seattle's last 8 games vs. Central Division.
The UNDER is 6-2 in Cleveland's last 8 road games.
The UNDER is 36-17-1 in Cleveland's last 54 Thursday games.
The UNDER is 6-2 in SEA last 8 home games.

San Antonio Spurs at Phoenix Suns (TNT | 10:30 PM ET)

San Antonio will be trying to avoid its 1st 4-game losing streak in over 4 years. The Spurs are continuing their longest road trip of the season, coming off a stunning loss at Seattle on Tuesday. They are just 8-11 away from home this season. EDGE: SUNS
The Spurs have shut down point guard Tony Parker due to a bone spur in his left heel, and they are also playing without 3-point specialist Brent Barry due to a calf injury. They are only 1-4 without Parker in the lineup this season. EDGE: SUNS
Spurs are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 road games.
Spurs are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games overall.
Suns are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games overall.
The UNDER is 21-6 in San Antonio's last 27 games overall.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 04:00 AM

College Basketball – Long Sheet

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Thursday, January 31

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BOSTON COLLEGE (12 - 6) at N CAROLINA (19 - 1) - 1/31/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N CAROLINA is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in all games this season.
N CAROLINA is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
N CAROLINA is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) as a favorite this season.
N CAROLINA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points over the last 2 seasons.
N CAROLINA is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
N CAROLINA is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
N CAROLINA is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) after scoring 80 points or more this season.
N CAROLINA is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 66-35 ATS (+27.5 Units) in road games since 1997.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 66-35 ATS (+27.5 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 62-36 ATS (+22.4 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1997.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 60-35 ATS (+21.5 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 28-13 ATS (+13.7 Units) in road games off a loss against a conference rival since 1997.
BOSTON COLLEGE is 73-47 ATS (+21.3 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.

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

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PROVIDENCE (13 - 7) at NOTRE DAME (14 - 4) - 1/31/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NOTRE DAME is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in home games after allowing 80 points or more over the last 3 seasons.

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

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WI-MILWAUKEE (12 - 8) at DETROIT (4 - 16) - 1/31/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WI-MILWAUKEE is 78-53 ATS (+19.7 Units) in road games since 1997.
WI-MILWAUKEE is 78-53 ATS (+19.7 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
WI-MILWAUKEE is 99-72 ATS (+19.8 Units) against conference opponents since 1997.
WI-MILWAUKEE is 98-67 ATS (+24.3 Units) after a conference game since 1997.
DETROIT is 16-26 ATS (-12.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 16-26 ATS (-12.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 5-18 ATS (-14.8 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) after scoring 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses this season.
DETROIT is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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MINNESOTA (12 - 7) at MICHIGAN (5 - 15) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 12-28 ATS (-18.8 Units) in road games in January games since 1997.
MINNESOTA is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) after scoring 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) as a home underdog of 3 points or less or pick since 1997.
MICHIGAN is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in all games this season.
MICHIGAN is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in all lined games this season.
MICHIGAN is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MICHIGAN is 4-2 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
MICHIGAN is 5-1 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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WI-GREEN BAY (11 - 8) at WRIGHT ST (13 - 6) - 1/31/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WI-GREEN BAY is 55-78 ATS (-30.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
WI-GREEN BAY is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 41-26 ATS (+12.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 41-26 ATS (+12.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 26-12 ATS (+12.8 Units) in home games after allowing 60 points or less since 1997.
WRIGHT ST is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
WRIGHT ST is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WRIGHT ST is 5-1 against the spread versus WI-GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
WRIGHT ST is 4-2 straight up against WI-GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ARK-LITTLE ROCK (15 - 6) at W KENTUCKY (16 - 5) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARK-LITTLE ROCK is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in January games over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
W KENTUCKY is 3-16 ATS (-14.6 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ARK-LITTLE ROCK is 3-0 against the spread versus W KENTUCKY over the last 3 seasons
W KENTUCKY is 2-1 straight up against ARK-LITTLE ROCK over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

S ALABAMA (17 - 3) at N TEXAS (12 - 8) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
S ALABAMA is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in road games against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
S ALABAMA is 17-5 ATS (+11.5 Units) in road games after a conference game over the last 3 seasons.
S ALABAMA is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.

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

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CLEVELAND ST (15 - 7) at IL-CHICAGO (10 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND ST is 70-98 ATS (-37.8 Units) against conference opponents since 1997.
CLEVELAND ST is 34-63 ATS (-35.3 Units) off a loss against a conference rival since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 78-55 ATS (+17.5 Units) as a favorite since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 71-46 ATS (+20.4 Units) in all home games since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 71-46 ATS (+20.4 Units) in home lined games since 1997.
IL-CHICAGO is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

YOUNGSTOWN ST (7 - 14) at LOYOLA-IL (8 - 13) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOYOLA-IL is 29-15 ATS (+12.5 Units) in home games revenging a road loss vs opponent since 1997.
YOUNGSTOWN ST is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in January games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LOYOLA-IL is 3-3 against the spread versus YOUNGSTOWN ST over the last 3 seasons
LOYOLA-IL is 3-3 straight up against YOUNGSTOWN ST over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MIDDLE TENN ST (8 - 11) at LA-LAFAYETTE (9 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA-LAFAYETTE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) against conference opponents this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIDDLE TENN ST is 2-0 against the spread versus LA-LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons
MIDDLE TENN ST is 2-0 straight up against LA-LAFAYETTE over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TEMPLE (9 - 9) at FORDHAM (8 - 9) - 1/31/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FORDHAM is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FORDHAM is 13-25 ATS (-14.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
FORDHAM is 11-22 ATS (-13.2 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.

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

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LA-MONROE (8 - 13) at TROY (9 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TROY is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TROY is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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NC STATE (13 - 6) at DUKE (17 - 1) - 1/31/2008, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DUKE is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points over the last 2 seasons.
DUKE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all home games this season.
DUKE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in home lined games this season.
DUKE is 57-30 ATS (+24.0 Units) in January games since 1997.
DUKE is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
DUKE is 122-87 ATS (+26.3 Units) after scoring 80 points or more since 1997.
NC STATE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

INDIANA (18 - 2) at WISCONSIN (16 - 3) - 1/31/2008, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WISCONSIN is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 6 points since 1997.
WISCONSIN is 21-8 ATS (+12.2 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game since 1997.

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

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FLA INTERNATIONAL (6 - 13) at DENVER (9 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 9:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLA INTERNATIONAL is 95-127 ATS (-44.7 Units) in all games since 1997.
FLA INTERNATIONAL is 95-127 ATS (-44.7 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
FLA INTERNATIONAL is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
FLA INTERNATIONAL is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in home games in January games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) after scoring 60 points or less this season.

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

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UC-IRVINE (8 - 12) at CS-NORTHRIDGE (14 - 4) - 1/31/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UC-IRVINE is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.

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

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CALIFORNIA (11 - 8) at WASHINGTON ST (18 - 2) - 1/31/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALIFORNIA is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games since 1997.
WASHINGTON ST is 56-35 ATS (+17.5 Units) after scoring 60 points or less since 1997.
WASHINGTON ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CALIFORNIA is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games since 1997.

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

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FRESNO ST (10 - 12) at NEVADA (13 - 7) - 1/31/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FRESNO ST is 71-101 ATS (-40.1 Units) after a conference game since 1997.
FRESNO ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in road games off a loss against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
NEVADA is 125-89 ATS (+27.1 Units) in all games since 1997.
NEVADA is 125-89 ATS (+27.1 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
NEVADA is 17-5 ATS (+11.5 Units) as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points since 1997.
NEVADA is 71-47 ATS (+19.3 Units) against conference opponents since 1997.
NEVADA is 74-44 ATS (+25.6 Units) after a conference game since 1997.

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

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STANFORD (17 - 3) at WASHINGTON (13 - 8) - 1/31/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
STANFORD is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a road favorite of 3 points or less or pick over the last 3 seasons.
STANFORD is 73-44 ATS (+24.6 Units) in road games since 1997.
STANFORD is 73-44 ATS (+24.6 Units) in road lined games since 1997.
STANFORD is 111-83 ATS (+19.7 Units) against conference opponents since 1997.
STANFORD is 56-34 ATS (+18.6 Units) in January games since 1997.
STANFORD is 63-42 ATS (+16.8 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
STANFORD is 47-28 ATS (+16.2 Units) in road games off a win against a conference rival since 1997.

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

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CS-FULLERTON (12 - 7) at LONG BEACH ST (4 - 14) - 1/31/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CS-FULLERTON is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
CS-FULLERTON is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LONG BEACH ST is 5-0 against the spread versus CS-FULLERTON over the last 3 seasons
LONG BEACH ST is 5-0 straight up against CS-FULLERTON over the last 3 seasons
5 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ARIZONA ST (15 - 5) at UCLA (18 - 2) - 1/31/2008, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UCLA is 51-35 ATS (+12.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
UCLA is 51-35 ATS (+12.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
ARIZONA ST is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 3 seasons.
UCLA is 9-21 ATS (-14.1 Units) in home games versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game since 1997.

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

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ARIZONA (14 - 7) at USC (13 - 6) - 1/31/2008, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
USC is 32-16 ATS (+14.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
USC is 32-16 ATS (+14.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
USC is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
USC is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.
USC is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
USC is 28-10 ATS (+17.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
USC is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 36-16 ATS (+18.4 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
USC is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 6 points since 1997.

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

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NEW MEXICO ST (11 - 11) at HAWAII (8 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 11:59 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW MEXICO ST is 53-77 ATS (-31.7 Units) as a favorite since 1997.
HAWAII is 27-43 ATS (-20.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
HAWAII is 27-43 ATS (-20.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
HAWAII is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) after allowing 60 points or less over the last 3 seasons.

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

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GA SOUTHERN (15 - 7) at UT-CHATTANOOGA (13 - 8) - 1/31/2008, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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MURRAY ST (13 - 7) at AUSTIN PEAY (14 - 9) - 1/31/2008, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MURRAY ST is 32-57 ATS (-30.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
MURRAY ST is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) after allowing 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
AUSTIN PEAY is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in all games this season.
AUSTIN PEAY is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in all lined games this season.
AUSTIN PEAY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) against conference opponents this season.
AUSTIN PEAY is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing with one or less days rest this season.

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

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E ILLINOIS (3 - 18) at JACKSONVILLE ST (4 - 18) - 1/31/2008, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE ST is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) versus poor offensive teams - scoring <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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SAMFORD (9 - 13) at TENNESSEE ST (11 - 11) - 1/31/2008, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAMFORD is 18-29 ATS (-13.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAMFORD is 18-29 ATS (-13.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) when playing with one or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE ST is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAMFORD is 4-2 against the spread versus TENNESSEE ST over the last 3 seasons
SAMFORD is 4-2 straight up against TENNESSEE ST over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TENNESSEE TECH (10 - 14) at TENN-MARTIN (10 - 14) - 1/31/2008, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENN-MARTIN is 20-35 ATS (-18.5 Units) in home games after a conference game since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
TENN-MARTIN is 4-0 against the spread versus TENNESSEE TECH over the last 3 seasons
TENNESSEE TECH is 3-1 straight up against TENN-MARTIN over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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N ARIZONA (14 - 7) at N COLORADO (8 - 13) - 1/31/2008, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
N ARIZONA is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in road games off a loss against a conference rival since 1997.
N COLORADO is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
N ARIZONA is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) as a favorite this season.
N ARIZONA is 26-14 ATS (+10.6 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
N ARIZONA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

IDAHO ST (9 - 12) at WEBER ST (11 - 9) - 1/31/2008, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
IDAHO ST is 71-98 ATS (-36.8 Units) in all games since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 71-98 ATS (-36.8 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 39-65 ATS (-32.5 Units) after a conference game since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 10-23 ATS (-15.3 Units) off a win against a conference rival since 1997.
IDAHO ST is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 26-15 ATS (+9.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 26-15 ATS (+9.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
WEBER ST is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) in home games after scoring 60 points or less since 1997.

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

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MONTANA ST (12 - 9) at E WASHINGTON (9 - 14) - 1/31/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTANA ST is 39-22 ATS (+14.8 Units) in January games since 1997.

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

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

MONTANA (9 - 12) at PORTLAND ST (11 - 8) - 1/31/2008, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTANA is 22-38 ATS (-19.8 Units) in January games since 1997.
MONTANA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 04:01 AM

College Basketball – Write up

NCAAB
Write-up

Thursday, January 31

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Thursday's College Basketball

Games of the Night

Indiana is 6-0 in Big 11, but lost at home to depleted UConn in last game Saturday; they beat Wisconsin by five at home LY, in only series meeting. Badgers are 6-1 in Big 11, losing 60-56 in last game at Purdue. Wisconsin is 4-0 at home in conference, winning home games by 13-10-12-3, allowing 55.5 ppg.

USC won last four games after 0-3 start in Pac-10, with all four wins by 9+ points; five of its first seven league games were on road. Arizona won, covered last three games; they're 4-0 when they score 76+ points, 0-3 if they don't. Trojans allow average of 61.5 ppg in last six games, and that includes an OT contest.

Rest of the Card

-- Boston College lost last two games, allowing 82.5 ppg; they lost twice to North Carolina LY, by 5-15 points. Tar Heels been off for eight days; they're 2-3 vs spread as ACC favorite, with wins by 2-31-1-16 points.

-- Notre Dame is 3-0 as Big East home favorite, winning by 13-6 17 points at home; they beat Providence 81-78 LY (-8). PC lost last two games, by 13-7 points; they're 1-3 as road dog in Big East play, losing road games by 29-5-7 points.

-- Wisc-Milwaukee shot just 32% from floor in 55-53 home win vs Detroit Jan 5 (-5); Panthers won seven of last eight, winning three of last four road games. Titans are 0-9 in Horizon, losing home games by 7-13-10-4-9 points.

-- Minnesota lost last three games, by 5-5-16 points; they're 14 for last 53 (26.4%) beyond arc in that span. Michigan lost four in a row, scoring 60 ppg. Gophers lost two of three on road in Big 11, losing 65-59 at Michigan State, 76-60 at Ohio State.

-- Wright State (+5.5) lost 52-49 in Green Bay Jan 5; they were 5-9 from line, GB 16-20, in game where both sides shor under 38% from line. Raiders won last three games, all on road- dogs are 4-0 vs spread in their home games (0-3 as home favorite).

-- Western Kentucky won last six games, but is 0-4 as favorite at home in Big East, winning home games by 11-16-18-9 points. Underdog is 4-0 vs spread in Little Rock's road games; UALR is 2-0 as road dog, with road losses by 15-14 points.

-- South Alabama is 9-0 in Sun Belt, winning road games by 11- 9-7 points; visitor covered seven of their nine Sun Belt games (3-0 as road favorite). North Texas lost last three games, giving up 78.3 ppg; they're 2-1 at home in conference.

-- Cleveland State lost pair of road games last week, after a 7-0 start in Horizon; fave is 3-1 vs spread in its road games. UIC is 2-5 in last seven games; home side is 8-1 in its home games, as Flames are 4-1 at home, with wins by 18-9-10-10 points.

-- Youngstown, Loyola are both 3-7 in Horizon; Ramblers (+3) lost 71-61 in Ohio Jan 5, getting outscored 23-4 from foul line. Loyola is 0-3 as Horizon home favorite (2-3 SU) winning by 5-6 points in five Horizon home contests. YSU is 4-1 as road dog.

-- UL-Lafayette lost four of last five games after 4-0 start in Sun Belt play, but Cajuns are 8-1 vs spread in league games, 3-0 as home favorite, with home wins by 19-10-10 pts. MTSU is 3-1 as road dog, with road losses by 14-11-13 points.

-- Home side is 5-0 in Fordham's A-14 games; Rams won by 13- 1 over GW, Duquesne at home, covering only try as a favorite. Temple split first four league games, with three games decided by wither one or two points. Owls are 3-0-1 as A-14 underdog.

-- UL-Monroe won last two games after an 0-6 start in Sun Belt they're 2-2 as road dog, losing away games by 16-21-2 points. Troy State is 2-7 in league, covering one of last six games; they are 0-3 as a Sun Belt home favorite.

-- NC State beat Duke in OT in ACC tourney LY, after losing to Duke by 23 during season; Wolfpack is 2-3 in ACC, losing by 31-16-3 (1-1 as road dog). Duke won, covered all five games in ACC, winning home games by 22-13 points.

-- Denver is 4-0 as Sun Belt home favorite, winning home tilts by 4-16-14-7 points, but they lost last two on road, losing 71-33 in last game Sunday. Florida International covered five of last seven games; they're 3-2 as road dog, losing by 8-9-16-12-9.

-- Home side is 6-0 in Irvine's Big West games; Anteaters lost all three on road, by 10-17-6 pts (1-1 as road dog). Northridge is 6-0 in Big West, 3-0 as home favorite, winning by 35-17-39 in its three conference home games. Big West home faves: 9-5.

-- Washington State is 5-2 in Pac-10 despite playing five of its first seven on road; they're 2-0 as home favorite, winning home games by 23-9 points. Cal lost three in row, all by five points or less, or in OT- they're 0-3 as a Pac-10 underdog.

-- Visitor is 5-1 vs spread in Nevada's WAC games; Wolf Pack is 0-2 as home favorite- their WAC wins are by 18-8-9-13 pts. Fresno lost last three road games by 10-4-13 points- they held three teams they beat under 33% from floor.

-- Stanford won five of last six games; they're 2-1 on road, with 71-66 loss at Oregon. Washington won three of last four; they are 2-1 at home in league, losing 56-52 to Wazzu. Huskies are 3-0 if they score 70+, figure Cardinal allowed in two of last six.

-- Long Beach is 0-4 on Big West road (0-2-1 as road dog) with losses by 15-12-4-39 points. Fullerton is 5-2 in league, 2-2 as a home favorite, with home wins by 10-14-11 pts; they got beat at home by UCSB. All five of their league wins are by 10+.

-- Arizona State lost last three games after 4-0 start in its Pac-10 games, losing by 15-10-1; they're 1-1 as road dog. UCLA is 6-1 in league, 0-3 as home favorite, with wins by 14-7 pts. Visitor is 7-0 against spread in their conference games.

-- New Mexico State is 5-2 in WAC, 2-1 on road, winning by 10 at Idaho, 3 at Boise, losing at Utah State. hawai'i won three of last four games; they're 3-1 at home in league, winning last two vs San Jose, Fresno, after losing at home to Nevada.

-- Georgia Southern is 2-3 on SoCon road (0-2-1 as a road dog) with road losses by 25-12-7 points; Favorite is 4-0-1 vs spread in its road games. Chatanooga is 8-2 in league, 5-1 as favorite at home, with home wins by 13-16-13-5-30-12 points.

-- Austin Peay lost triple OT game Tuesday, its second loss in row after 9-1 start in OVC; they lost 82-70 (+2) at Murray State Jan 10. Racers won seven in row (5-1-1 vs spread); they're 3-2 on OVC road, losing close games at Samford, Eastern Illinois.

-- Jacksonville State lost last five games, all by 11+ pts, is 2-5 at home in OVC, with home losses by 14-1-4-11-11 points. Eastern Illinois snapped six-game skid last time out, beating Morehead; they're 4-1 as an OVC road underdog.

-- Tennessee State held Samford to 30.2% from floor Jan 10, in 55-46 road win; Tigers are 1-4 as OVC home favorite, winning at home by 6-12-7 points. Bulldogs lost by 28 at Murray State two nights ago; they're 2-3 as an OVC road dog.

-- UT-Martin lost three of last four home games, with losses by 5-2-4 points. Tennessee Tech lost last three games, is 3-4 away from home in OVC. Both teams lost Tuesday. OVC home sides are 22-25 against spread this season.

-- Northern Colorado (+8.5) lost 86-70 at Northern Arizona back on Dec 30; they're 2-3 at home in Big Sky, losing by 11-3-11 to Idaho State and the Montana schools. NAU won four of last five games; they're 3-2 on road, winning by 4-11-13 points.

-- Idaho State, Weber are both 5-2 in Big Sky; Wildcats are 2-2 as home favorite, winning in Ogden by 5-10-13, but losing last home game to NAU. Bengals won three of last four, are 2-1 on Big Sky road; their league losses are by 10-21 points.

-- Eastern Washington (+11) lost 74-69 at Montana State five nights ago, getting outscored 20-9 from foul line, turning ball over 20 times to offset EW's 12-25 shooting from arc. Bobcats won last three games by 21-3-5 points.

-- Portland State hasn't played for 12 days; they're 3-0 at home in Big Sky games, winning by 25-14-2 points. Montana won its last two games after 1-4 start in league; they're 2-2 on road in Big Sky, losing by 16 at Montana State, 8 at No. Arizona.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 04:02 AM

College Basketball - Tips & Trends

NCAAB

Thursday, January 31

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Tips and Trends
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Boston College at #4 North Carolina (ESPN | 7 PM ET)

Boston College is 32-15 ATS in its last 47 road games.
North Carolina is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 games overall.
North Carolina is 24-7 ATS in its last 31 home games.
The OVER is 11-4 in North Carolina's last 15 Thursday games.

Providence at Notre Dame (ESPN2 | 7 PM ET)

Notre Dame is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games vs. Big East.
Road team is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
The UNDER is 7-3 in Providence's last 10 Thursday games.
The UNDER is 9-3-1 in Notre Dame's last 13 Thursday games.

#11 Indiana at #13 Wisconsin (ESPN | 9 PM ET)

Indiana is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 Thursday games.
Indiana is 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 games vs. Big Ten.
The UNDER is 9-2 in Wisconsin's last 11 games overall.
The UNDER is 11-3 in Wisconsin's last 14 games vs. Big Ten.

North Carolina State at #3 Duke (ESPN2 | 9 PM ET)

North Carolina State is 2-8-1 ATS in its last 11 games overall.
Duke is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 home games.
The OVER is 8-1 in North Carolina State's last 9 games vs. ACC.
The OVER is 7-1 in North Carolina State's last 8 games overall.
The OVER is 27-11 in Duke's last 38 games vs. ACC.

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**pm530** · 01-31-2008, 04:04 AM

National Hockey League – Write up

NHL
Write-up

Thursday, January 31

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Today's NHL analysis

Hot Teams
-- Hurricanes won three of their last four games.
-- Canadiens won three in row, seven of last nine games.
-- Flyers won nine of their last eleven games.
-- Kings are 5-0 in game after their last five losses.
-- Senators won last two games, scoring thirteen goals.
-- Columbus won six of last nine games.

Cold Teams
-- Toronto lost fourteen of their last twenty games.
-- Capitals lost two of last three games, scoring four goals.
-- Rangers lost eight of their last twelve games.
-- Islanders lost four of their last five games.
-- Lightning lost 17 of their last 23 games. Canucks lost seven of their last nine games.
-- Bruins lost four of last five road games.
-- Nashville lost last two games, 4-3/3-1.

Series Records
-- Leafs are 5-3 in last eight games against Carolina.
-- Canadiens won four of last five against Washington.
-- Rangers won eight of last ten against the Flyers.
-- Islanders lost 4-2 at Staples LY, in last series meeting.
-- Lightning lost 5-1 in Vancouver LY, in last series meeting.
-- Senators won seven of last eight against the Bruins.
-- Predators are 12-1 in last thirteen games vs Columbus.

Totals
-- Under is 7-2-2 in last eleven Toronto games.
-- Under is 5-2 in Montreal's last seven games.
-- Under is 6-1 in last seven Ranger games; over is 8-1 in Flyers' last nine games.
-- Last three Los Angeles games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 3-0-1 in last four Vancouver games.
-- Six of last seven Boston-Ottawa games stayed under total.
-- Under is 8-3 in last eleven Columbus-Nashville games.

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**Udog** · 01-31-2008, 07:48 AM

NHL
Hot Lines

Thursday, January 31

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Ice Picks: Today's best NHL wagers
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NY Rangers at Philadelphia (-147, 5 1/2)

The New York Rangers haven't had a whole lot of success away from home lately. But if there's a place where they've been able to count on a road win in recent years, it's Philadelphia.

New York looks to avoid extending its road losing streak to seven games while trying for its sixth straight win at the Wachovia Center when it faces the Flyers on Thursday.

The Rangers have won five straight and nine of the past 10 on the Flyers' home ice dating to March 27, 2004.

The Rangers have taken two of three meetings with Philadelphia (28-16-5) this season - both in November - while the Flyers won 6-2 at MSG on Jan. 10.

Since taking the loss in that contest, Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist has gone 4-3-1 with a 1.85 goals-against average, allowing one goal or fewer four times.

Pick: Rangers +137

Montreal at Washington (-108, 6)

Few teams are currently as hot as the Canadiens, who have gone 10-2-2 in their last 14 games to pull within six points of Eastern Conference-leading Ottawa. Montreal leads the East with 17 road victories, and is 6-1-1 in its last eight away from home.

Leading the way for the Canadiens has been Cristobal Huet, who stopped 35 shots for his second shutout of the season in a 4-0 victory over the visiting Capitals on Tuesday.

Huet has won both of his starts this season against Washington (23-23-5), stopping 70 of 72 shots. He is 6-2-0 with a 2.12 goals-against average in eight career starts versus the Capitals.

Huet, though, hasn't just played well against Washington lately. He is 7-2-0 with a 1.94 GAA during a stretch of nine straight starts.

The Canadiens are 2-0-1 this season against the Capitals, including a 5-2 victory at Washington on Dec. 20. Montreal is 7-1-1 in the last nine overall meetings between the teams.

Pick: Canadiens -102

Toronto at Carolina (-147, 6)

Cam Ward's play has helped put Carolina in contention for a postseason spot. He stopped 34 of 35 shots Tuesday, reminding many of his October start, when he gave up two goals or less in five of 10 games.

Carolina has won three of its last four, and Ward has yielded two goals or less in each of those wins.

The Hurricanes' offense also has played well in that span, scoring 16 goals. Rod Brind'Amour, Sergei Samsonov and Trevor Letowski all found the back of the net for Carolina in Tuesday's win.

Samsonov has given the Hurricanes a boost since being claimed off waivers from Chicago on Jan. 8, scoring three goals in nine games after failing to score in 23 contests with the Blackhawks.

Samsonov had a goal and two assists in Carolina's last game against Toronto (20-24-8), a 5-4 Maple Leafs' win on Jan. 15. The Hurricanes, however, outscored the Leafs 10-3 in winning the previous two games.

Pick: Hurricanes -147

**Udog** · 01-31-2008, 09:44 AM

NBA
Dunkel

San Antonio at Phoenix
Looking for revenge from last year's playoff loss, the Suns come into the contest having won seven of their last eight. The Spurs continue to struggle and have now lost three straight and seven of their last 12. Phoenix is the pick (-7 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Suns favored by 10 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (-7 1/2). Here are all of today's games.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31

Game 701-702: LA Lakers at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: LA Lakers 120.418; Detroit 122.439
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 2; 201
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit by 7 1/2; 197
Dunkel Pick: LA Lakers (+7 1/2); Over

Game 703-704: Dallas at Boston
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 122.667; Boston 126.651
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 4; 190 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 705-706: Cleveland at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 120.312; Seattle 114.508
Dunkel Line & Total: Cleveland by 6; 179
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 707-708: San Antonio at Phoenix
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 116.719; Phoenix 127.061
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 10 1/2; 203
Vegas Line & Total: Phoenix by 7 1/2; 200 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (-7 1/2); Over

**Udog** · 01-31-2008, 09:49 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

NC State at Duke
The Wolfpack hope to build on a three-point win (69-66) at FSU on Saturday, but should have some trouble at Cameron Indoor where NC State is 0-8 since 1997. Duke comes in hot with a 5-0 mark ATS since blowing out Virginia (87-65) at home on the 13th. The Blue Devils are the pick (-18) according to Dunkel, which has Duke favored by 27. Dunkel Pick: Duke (-18). Here are all of today's games.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 31

Game 709-710: Boston College at North Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Boston College 64.017; North Carolina 82.351
Dunkel Line: North Carolina by 18 1/2
Vegas Line: North Carolina by 20
Dunkel Pick: Boston College (+20)

Game 711-712: Providence at Notre Dame
Dunkel Ratings: Providence 65.082; Notre Dame 74.408
Dunkel Line: Notre Dame by 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Notre Dame by 8
Dunkel Pick: Notre Dame (-8)

Game 713-714: WI-Milwaukee at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: WI-Milwaukee 59.320; Detroit 48.872
Dunkel Line: WI-Milwaukee by 10 1/2
Vegas Line: WI-Milwaukee by 4 1/2
Dunkel Pick: WI-Milwaukee (-4 1/2)

Game 715-716: Minnesota at Michigan
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 64.118; Michigan 62.270
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 2
Vegas Line: Minnesota by 1 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-1 1/2)

Game 717-718: WI-Green Bay at Wright State
Dunkel Ratings: WI-Green Bay 56.570; Wright State 62.309
Dunkel Line: Wright State by 6
Vegas Line: Wright State by 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Wright State (-5 1/2)

Game 719-720: Arkansas Little Rock at Western Kentucky
Dunkel Ratings: Arkansas Little Rock 49.059; Western Kentucky 66.037
Dunkel Line: Western Kentucky by 17
Vegas Line: Western Kentucky by 13
Dunkel Pick: Western Kentucky (-13)

Game 721-722: South Alabama at North Texas
Dunkel Ratings: South Alabama 62.582; North Texas 51.600
Dunkel Line: South Alabama by 11
Vegas Line: South Alabama by 3 1/2
Dunkel Pick: South Alabama (-3 1/2)

Game 723-724: Cleveland State at Illinois-Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland State 60.565; Illinois-Chicago 58.356
Dunkel Line: Cleveland State by 2
Vegas Line: Illinois-Chicago by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland State (+2 1/2)

Game 725-726: Youngstown State at Loyola-Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: Youngstown State 50.360; Loyola-Chicago 53.839
Dunkel Line: Loyola-Chicago by 3 1/2
Vegas Line: Loyola-Chicago by 6
Dunkel Pick: Youngstown State (+6)

Game 727-728: Middle Tennessee St. at Louisiana Lafayette
Dunkel Ratings: Middle Tennessee St. 49.903; Louisiana Lafayette 59.734
Dunkel Line: Louisiana Lafayette by 10
Vegas Line: Louisiana Lafayette by 7
Dunkel Pick: Louisiana Lafayette (-7)

Game 729-730: Temple at Fordham
Dunkel Ratings: Temple 64.691; Fordham 60.289
Dunkel Line: Temple by 4 1/2
Vegas Line: Temple by 1
Dunkel Pick: Temple (-1)

Game 731-732: UL Monroe at Troy
Dunkel Ratings: UL Monroe 44.954; Troy 50.062
Dunkel Line: Troy by 5
Vegas Line: Troy by 3 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Troy (-3 1/2)

Game 733-734: NC State at Duke
Dunkel Ratings: NC State 56.981; Duke 83.886
Dunkel Line: Duke by 27
Vegas Line: Duke by 18
Dunkel Pick: Duke (-18)

Game 735-736: Indiana at Wisconsin
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 71.650; Wisconsin 74.887
Dunkel Line: Wisconsin by 3
Vegas Line: Wisconsin by 4
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (+4)

Game 737-738: Florida International at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: Florida International 47.860; Denver 53.728
Dunkel Line: Denver by 6
Vegas Line: Denver by 4 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Denver (-4 1/2)

Game 739-740: UC-Irvine at CS-Northridge
Dunkel Ratings: UC-Irvine 51.135; CS-Northridge 62.690
Dunkel Line: CS-Northridge by 11 1/2
Vegas Line: CS-Northridge by 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: CS-Northridge (-8 1/2)

Game 741-742: California at Washington State
Dunkel Ratings: California 65.753; Washington State 74.936
Dunkel Line: Washington State by 9
Vegas Line: Washington State by 11
Dunkel Pick: California (+11)

Game 743-744: Fresno State at Nevada
Dunkel Ratings: Fresno State 53.657; Nevada 64.918
Dunkel Line: Nevada by 11 1/2
Vegas Line: Nevada by 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Nevada (-8 1/2)

Game 745-746: Stanford at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Stanford 70.960; Washington 68.621
Dunkel Line: Stanford by 2 1/2
Vegas Line: Stanford by 2
Dunkel Pick: Stanford (-2)

Game 747-748: CS-Fullerton at Long Beach State
Dunkel Ratings: CS-Fullerton 56.288; Long Beach State 50.626
Dunkel Line: CS-Fullerton by 5 1/2
Vegas Line: CS-Fullerton by 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Long Beach State (+7 1/2)

Game 749-750: Arizona State at UCLA
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona State 66.430; UCLA 78.202
Dunkel Line: UCLA by 12
Vegas Line: UCLA by 14
Dunkel Pick: Arizona State (+14)

Game 751-752: Arizona at USC
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 69.000; USC 73.156
Dunkel Line: USC by 4
Vegas Line: USC by 3
Dunkel Pick: USC (-3)

Game 753-754: New Mexico State at Hawaii
Dunkel Ratings: New Mexico State 59.327; Hawaii 57.784
Dunkel Line: New Mexico State by 1 1/2
Vegas Line: New Mexico State by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Hawaii (+2 1/2)

Game 755-756: Georgia Southern at Chattanooga
Dunkel Ratings: Georgia Southern 52.216; Chattanooga 64.293
Dunkel Line: Chattanooga by 12
Vegas Line: Chattanooga by 6
Dunkel Pick: Chattanooga (-6)

Game 757-758: Murray State at Austin Peay
Dunkel Ratings: Murray State 55.693; Austin Peay 50.780
Dunkel Line: Murray State by 5
Vegas Line: Austin Peay by 3
Dunkel Pick: Murray State (+3)

Game 759-760: Eastern Illinois at Jacksonville State
Dunkel Ratings: Eastern Illinois 40.120; Jacksonville State 43.254
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville State by 3
Vegas Line: Jacksonville State by 2
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville State (-2)

Game 761-762: Samford at Tennessee State
Dunkel Ratings: Samford 44.823; Tennessee State 51.818
Dunkel Line: Tennessee State by 7
Vegas Line: Tennessee State by 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Samford (+8 1/2)

Game 763-764: Tennessee Tech at Tennessee-Martin
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee Tech 48.835; Tennessee-Martin 50.849
Dunkel Line: Tennessee-Martin by 2
Vegas Line: Tennessee-Martin by 2 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee Tech (+2 1/2)

Game 765-766: Northern Arizona at Northern Colorado
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Arizona 57.800; Northern Colorado 51.989
Dunkel Line: Northern Arizona by 6
Vegas Line: Northern Arizona by 1
Dunkel Pick: Northern Arizona (-1)

Game 767-768: Idaho State at Weber State
Dunkel Ratings: Idaho State 47.188; Weber State 56.608
Dunkel Line: Weber State by 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Weber State by 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Weber State (-8 1/2)

Game 769-770: Montana State at Eastern Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Montana State 51.575; Eastern Washington 55.886
Dunkel Line: Eastern Washington by 4
Vegas Line: Montana State by 1
Dunkel Pick: Eastern Washington (+1)

Game 771-772: Montana at Portland State
Dunkel Ratings: Montana 50.088; Portland State 58.346
Dunkel Line: Portland State by 8
Vegas Line: Portland State by 5
Dunkel Pick: Portland State (-5)

Announcement

Thursday Trends and Indexes 01/31

Thursday Trends and Indexes 01/31

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