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  • Thursday Trends and Indexes 3/18 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

    Trends and Indexes

    Thursday, March 18

    Good Luck on day #77 of 2010!

    At this time, the sports menu in this thread consists of the NBA, NCAAB, and NHL until their seasons are played out. Also, general sports news and notes will be posted.

    NOTE:
    As information becomes available, we will attempt to post the trends and indexes as soon as possible.
    Information is posted from what we believe are reliable sources.
    Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the posting member or BettorsChat.


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    Matchup Links

    NBA Matchups

    NBA Hot and Not

    NBA Injuries

    NCAAB Matchups

    NCAAB Hot and Not

    NCAAB Injuries

    NHL Matchups

    NHL Hot and Not

    NASCAR Schedules

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  • #2
    Daily Sports Roundup

    Thursday, March 18

    Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Heat play host to the rival Magic down in Miami, while the Big Dance gets underway for top seeds Kansas and Kentucky.

    Tipping off on the hardwood . . .

    The NBA has just two games on tap for Thursday, with New Orleans at Denver and Orlando at Miami. The Magic and Heat last met on February 28 in Orlando, with the home side rolling to an easy 96-80 win as 11-point favorites. Rashard Lewis poured in a game-high 22 points for the Magic in that contest, while Vince Carter picked up 17 points. Dwight Howard was held to just seven points and five rebounds on the day. Dwyane Wade was good for a team-high 21 points and five assists in that game for the Heat, while Jermaine O'Neal had 16 points in the loss.

    However, the hardwood focus on Thursday will be on March Madness, with the first 16 games of the first round. There are two No. 1 seeds in action on Thursday, as Kansas takes on Lehigh in the Midwest Region, and Kentucky plays East Tennessee State in the East Region. The Jayhawks (32-2 SU, 14-16-1 ATS) aren't expected to have any trouble with their Patriot League opponent at Oklahoma City's Ford Center, as they've been pegged as 26-point favorites (with a total of 146). The Wildcats (32-2 SU, 17-15 ATS) are big favorites as well, as they're giving 20 points to the Buccaneers in their meeting at New Orleans Arena.

    Elsewhere in the East Region on Thursday it's No. 11 Washington vs. No. 6 Marquette (-1.5), No. 9 Wake Forest vs. No. 8 Texas (-4.5), and No. 14 Montana vs. No. 3 New Mexico (-9). Other Midwest action has No. 9 Northern Iowa vs. No. 8 UNLV (-1), No. 14 Ohio vs. No. 3 Georgetown (-13.5), and No. 11 San Diego State vs. No. 6 Tennessee (-3). As well, West Region action features No. 10 Florida vs. No. 7 BYU (-5), No. 13 Murray State vs. No. 4 Vanderbilt (-3), No. 15 North Texas vs. No. 2 Kansas State (-16), and No. 12 UTEP vs. No. 5 Butler (-2.5). Lastly, in the South Region it's No. 11 Old Dominion vs. No. 6 Notre Dame (-2), No. 15 Robert Morris vs. No. 2 Villanova (-18.5), No. 14 Sam Houston State vs. No. 3 Baylor (-11), and then finally No. 10 St. Mary's vs. No. 7 Richmond (-2).

    Taking a trip around the rink . . .

    Finally, the NHL offers up 11 games on Thursday night, with Ottawa at Atlanta, St. Louis at the Rangers, Washington at Carolina, New Jersey at Toronto, Phoenix at Florida, Buffalo at Tampa Bay, Minnesota at Nashville, Philadelphia at Dallas, San Jose at Vancouver, Chicago at Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh at Boston. The Penguins beat the Bruins 2-1 at home when the teams last met on March 7 in the game where Boston forward Marc Savard was concussed by Pittsburgh forward Matt Cooke. Pascal Dupuis and Evgeni Malkin had the Pens' goals in that win, while Blake Wheeler scored for the Bruins in the losing cause.

    Comment


    • #3
      Bettor's best friend: Thursday's wagering tips

      Lines off the board

      Pittsburgh Penguins at Boston Bruins – Evengi Malkin (lower body) missed Wednesday’s game and is questionable. Patrice Bergeron (foot) left the team’s last game and is probable.

      Chicago Blackhawks at Anaheim Ducks – Marian Hossa (upper body) is questionable. Brian Campbell (neck) is out indefinitely after breaking his collarbone.

      Line to keep an eye on

      The total in the Hornets-Nuggets game has moved from an opener of 214 to 215 on a few betting boards. New Orleans has played to two consecutive overs but five of the last six in this series have gone under.

      Weather report

      The forecast for Palm Harbor, Fla., for this week’s Transition Championship looks to be good. While the temperature will be a little cooler than normal Sunshine State conditions (high in mid-60s) the wind won’t be gusting like last weekend and the chance of precipitation is minimum.

      Who’s hot

      St. Mary’s is 4-1 ATS in its last five games.

      Predators goalie Pekka Rinne has won three straight starts behind a 1.59 GAA and .944 save percentage.

      Who’s not

      Texas has lost five straight games ATS and is 2-8 ATS in its last 10.

      The Sharks have dropped three straight games, losing 5.56 units on the moneyline.

      Key stat

      3.05 – Number of units a bettor would have won in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament last season if he/she would have laid 1.0 unit on the moneyline for each No. 12 seed. Three 12 seeds advanced last year.

      Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

      This injury is actually for a Friday game but will have significance when filling out your bracket. It seems the trendy upset of the first round is Purdue going down but not much is being made of Siena’s injured point guard. Clarence Jackson sprained his ankle in practice on Monday and was on crutches the next day. He was walking around on Wednesday at practice and seemed more optimistic to play but his status is still very questionable.

      Notable quotable

      "I think I'll be a little more reckless, knowing that I got like a football helmet on while I'm out there."

      -- Mavericks guard Jason Terry said of his style of play with the new protective face mask he will be wearing in games beginning Wednesday. Terry also said that it could come off very quickly if he doesn’t shoot well with it on.

      Tips and notes

      - After a dismal 1-goal, 20-shot offensive output in Tuesday’s home loss to Montreal, the Rangers are tinkering with their lines. Vinny Prospal and Marian Gaborik were split up in practice on Wednesday with the first line including Gaborik, Brandon Dubinsky and Erik Cristensen. New York has gotten off 21 shots or fewer in three of the last four games.

      - Rashard Lewis has scored three points in each of his last two games. The Magic shooting forward is averaging 8.0 points over his last six games and coach Stan Van Gundy is not a happy camper. "And it's not just the shooting,” he said. “[He's] not rebounding the ball. He's just not playing with much energy." Orlando can still win without Lewis producing but it did suffer a home loss to Charlotte on Monday as 9-point favorites.

      - Retief Goosen has won the Transitions Championship twice in its 10-year history – last year and back in 2003. The Goose has three Top 10s in five PGA Tour starts this season and said he is feeling “confident” heading into this event. He also said, "The golf course seems to suit my mind very well. I definitely like the way it's set up.”

      Comment


      • #4
        NBA
        Long Sheet



        Thursday, March 18

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        ORLANDO (47 - 21) at MIAMI (35 - 33) - 3/18/2010, 7:00 PM
        Top Trends for this game.
        ORLANDO is 96-74 ATS (+14.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
        ORLANDO is 110-86 ATS (+15.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
        ORLANDO is 49-35 ATS (+10.5 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
        MIAMI is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) in a home game where where the total is between 185 and 189.5 points over the last 3 seasons.

        Head-to-Head Series History
        ORLANDO is 6-4 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
        ORLANDO is 8-3 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
        6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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        NEW ORLEANS (33 - 35) at DENVER (46 - 22) - 3/18/2010, 9:35 PM
        Top Trends for this game.
        NEW ORLEANS is 67-87 ATS (-28.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
        NEW ORLEANS is 24-40 ATS (-20.0 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
        NEW ORLEANS is 11-25 ATS (-16.5 Units) against Northwest division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
        NEW ORLEANS is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) revenging a home loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
        NEW ORLEANS is 12-21 ATS (-11.1 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent this season.
        NEW ORLEANS is 14-23 ATS (-11.3 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.
        NEW ORLEANS is 32-52 ATS (-25.2 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
        NEW ORLEANS is 15-29 ATS (-16.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
        DENVER is 90-71 ATS (+11.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
        DENVER is 27-15 ATS (+10.5 Units) against Southwest division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
        DENVER is 11-20 ATS (-11.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game this season.

        Head-to-Head Series History
        DENVER is 8-7 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
        DENVER is 9-6 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
        9 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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        Comment


        • #5
          NBA


          Thursday, March 18

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          Pick 'n' Roll: Today's best NBA bets
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          New Orleans Hornets at Denver Nuggets (-13, 214)

          The road hasn’t been kind to the Hornets. Sure they polished off the Clippers at Staples Center, but is that really much of an accomplishment?

          New Orleans was 0-7 and 3-4-1 against the spread in its last seven away dates before Monday’s win over the Clippers. The Hornets’ hosts averaged 108.9 points and shot better than 51 percent from the field during the stretch, according to the New Orleans Times Picayune.

          The negative results on the defensive end could be a result of tired legs. New Orleans has been running with just eight warm bodies over the last few weeks.

          “It’s a short-term situation that we’re in, ’’ GM and acting coach Jeff Bower said. “Quite frankly, the eight players that we have are better than anyone we could bring in. This gives them an opportunity to play extended minutes. It’s something we’re going to continue with for now."

          Reserve forward James Posey is expected to rejoin his mates this week but he’s still trying to get over the flu. Meanwhile team MVP Chris Paul isn’t expected to return until the beginning of next week.

          The Hornets’ road woes should continue again on Thursday against the Nuggets.

          Pick: Denver


          Orlando Magic at Miami Heat (+3, 187)


          Rashard Lewis, a wing scorer and Orlando’s highest paid player, has totaled just 12 points and 10 rebounds in his last three games.

          Is Lewis sacrificing his game for the good of his team or is he just playing like crap? Well that depends on who you ask.

          "This is my 12th year in the league," Lewis told reporters earlier this week. "There's been times when I've got frustrated over shots and wanted to get the ball. But I wasn't on a good team.

          “This time, I'm a veteran. All that matters is winning. I'm on a good a team, a playoff team, a team that's competing for a championship. Sometimes you've got to know how to play your role, and sometimes you've got to sacrifice."

          His coach doesn’t share the same opinion.

          "Rashard [is] just not playing well at all right now," Van Gundy told the Orlando Sentinel. "And it's not just the shooting. [He's] not rebounding the ball. He's just not playing with much energy.

          "I have confidence he'll bounce back. But right now, he's just not playing well."

          The Magic will need Lewis’ production in the playoffs against the Atlantas and Clevelands of the Eastern Conference but they can make do without him against the Miami Heat.

          Pick: Orlando


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          Comment


          • #6
            NBA


            Thursday, March 18

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            What Bettors Need to Know: TNT double header
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            Orlando Magic at Miami Heat (+3, 187)

            Team game

            Vince Carter passed Bob Lanier at the No. 43 spot on the NBA’s all-time scoring list in a 96-89 home loss to Charlotte on Saturday, but Carter said he does not care about any “individual stuff,” including a potential induction into the Hall of Fame.

            “I'll just finish my career and hopefully, at the end of the day, it's good enough,” Carter told the Orlando Sentinel. “I don't play the game for that reason. It's an honor, but before that happens, I'd like to try to win a championship.”

            Rashard Lewis is also focused on team glory, in part because he is mired in his own slump at the moment.

            “There's been times when I've got frustrated over shots and wanted to get the ball,” Lewis explained to the Sentinel. “But I wasn't on a good team. This time, I'm a veteran. All that matters is winning. I'm on a good a team, a playoff team, a team that's competing for a championship.”

            And the Magic (47-21, 36-31-1 ATS) have been competing quite well of late. They won eight games in a row (6-2 ATS) prior to Saturday’s setback and still sit atop of the Southeast Division standings.

            Beasley returns

            Michael Beasley (15.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg), who missed two games with a thigh injury, returned as the Heat fell at home to San Antonio 88-76 Tuesday. Listed as questionable prior to the game, Beasley scored six points and grabbed five boards in just 18 minutes of action.

            Small forward Dorell Wright (6.2 ppg) also returned Tuesday after being suspended for two games. Wright had four points and three rebounds in 14 minutes. Miami happened to win both home contests without its two players (108-95 over Chicago and 104-91 against Philadelphia).

            While Beasley and Wright should continue to get back into the swing of things against Orlando, Mario Chalmers (7.3 ppg, 3.4 apg) is questionable due to an illness. Chalmers has played at least 21 minutes in each of Miami’s past four games.

            Prior engagements

            Orlando and Miami have already faced each other three times this season, with the Heat leading 2-1 (2-1 ATS) in their head-to-head series. Miami won the first two meetings, but Orlando got revenge as an 11.5-favorite at home on February 28, drubbing the Heat 96-80. The Magic turned the ball over just seven times and overcame an underwhelming performance (seven points and five rebounds) from Dwight Howard.

            Trending topics

            Orlando is 6-2 ATS in its last eight games against the Eastern Conference. Miami is 5-1 in its last six home outings and 5-2 ATS in its last seven overall.

            Both the Magic (26-41-1 O/U) and the Heat (29-38-1 O/U) are outstanding under plays this season. The under was 24-8-1 in Orlando’s last 33 overall heading into a home date with San Antonio on Wednesday, but the over is 6-2 in Miami’s last eight overall.

            The Magic are 7-8 (6-9 ATS) in the second of back-to-back games this season.

            Head-to-head, Orlando is 11-4-1 ATS in the past 16 meetings between the two teams.


            New Orleans Hornets at Denver Nuggets (-13, 214)

            Undermanned


            New Orleans (33-35, 31-36-1 ATS) has played with only eight players in its past three games. Among those on the injury list are Chris Paul, Peja Stojakovic and James Posey. Both Paul (knee) and Stojakovic (abdominal) are out until late March and Posey is dealing with the flu.

            “It’s a short-term situation that we’re in,” GM Jeff Bower told the New Orleans Times-Picayune. “Quite frankly, the eight players that we have are better than anyone we could bring in. This gives them an opportunity to play extended minutes. It’s something we’re going to continue with for now.”

            The results have painted an accurate picture of the story, as the Hornets have lost seven of their past nine games. They at least managed to end a seven-game road losing streak with a 107-100 win at Los Angeles (the Clippers, of course) Monday night.

            Fatigue has been most apparent on the defensive end of the floor. New Orleans gave up 108.9 points per game during its road losing streak while allowing opponents to shoot 51 percent from the floor.

            Mile high scoring

            If the Hornets are struggling defensively, Denver is the team they want to be going up against right now. The Nuggets (46-22, 31-32-5 ATS) went on a six-game winning streak from March 3 to March 13. During that span, the Nuggets scored 116 points per game and connected on more than 51 percent of their field-goal attempts.

            Although the streak came to an end on Monday at Houston, Denver still scored 123 in a two-point loss.

            “We’re just trying to get up and down and just playing,” Chauncey Billups told the Denver Post. “More importantly, everybody’s just been moving the ball, passing the ball. Our assists have been up. If we get double-teamed we’re kicking it out to shooters.”

            Prior engagements

            The Nuggets are 2-1 (1-2 ATS) against New Orleans this season. As 1-point road favorites on December 18, they fell to the Hornets 98-92. Denver, however, pulled out a 116-10 overtime win at home on January 23 and most recently won 102-195 at New Orleans last Friday.

            A 5.5-point home underdog in Friday’s contest, New Orleans suited up only eight players and could not overcome a trio of double-doubles by the Nuggets (Carmelo Anthony, Johan Petro and Nene).

            Trending topics

            The Hornets are 1-7-1 ATS in their last nine games overall and 1-4-1 ATS in their last six road contests. The Nuggets are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six against Western Conference opponents.

            New Orleans, which plays at Golden State on Wednesday, is 6-7 (8-5 ATS) in the second of back-to-back games in 2009-10.

            Neither New Orleans (34-33-1 O/U) nor Denver (34-34 O/U) has been a good over/under play this season. The over, however, is 5-1 in the Nuggets’ last six home games.

            Head-to-head, Denver is 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings between the two teams and 4-1 ATS in the last five at home.


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            Comment


            • #7
              NHL
              Long Sheet



              Thursday, March 18

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              ST LOUIS (32-28-0-9, 73 pts.) at NY RANGERS (31-30-0-9, 71 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:05 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              ST LOUIS is 9-30 ATS (+50.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs over the last 3 seasons.
              ST LOUIS is 15-12 ATS (+30.8 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
              ST LOUIS is 42-36 ATS (+84.6 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
              ST LOUIS is 9-2 ATS (+11.8 Units) in road games after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
              ST LOUIS is 8-1 ATS (+9.4 Units) in road games after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
              NY RANGERS are 31-39 ATS (-14.0 Units) in all games this season.
              NY RANGERS are 10-15 ATS (-6.7 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
              NY RANGERS are 133-151 ATS (-95.8 Units) in home games second half of the season since 1996.
              NY RANGERS are 8-13 ATS (-10.0 Units) in home games revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
              NY RANGERS are 6-14 ATS (-9.2 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              ST LOUIS is 2-0 (+2.0 Units) against the spread versus NY RANGERS over the last 3 seasons
              ST LOUIS is 2-0-0 straight up against NY RANGERS over the last 3 seasons
              1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.0 Units)

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              PITTSBURGH (41-23-0-5, 87 pts.) at BOSTON (31-26-0-12, 74 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:05 PM
              There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              PITTSBURGH is 6-5 (+0.5 Units) against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
              PITTSBURGH is 6-5-0 straight up against BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
              6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+2.2 Units)

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              OTTAWA (37-28-0-5, 79 pts.) at ATLANTA (29-29-0-11, 69 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:05 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              OTTAWA is 1-6 ATS (-7.1 Units) in March games this season.
              OTTAWA is 57-60 ATS (-33.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
              ATLANTA is 13-6 ATS (+20.5 Units) after playing 3 consecutive home games over the last 3 seasons.
              OTTAWA is 14-6 ATS (+7.9 Units) after a division game this season.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              ATLANTA is 5-6 (+0.4 Units) against the spread versus OTTAWA over the last 3 seasons
              OTTAWA is 6-5-0 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
              5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=-1.0 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)

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              WASHINGTON (47-15-0-8, 102 pts.) at CAROLINA (28-33-0-8, 64 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:05 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              CAROLINA is 18-11 ATS (+6.0 Units) second half of the season this season.
              CAROLINA is 23-10 ATS (+12.6 Units) in March games over the last 3 seasons.
              CAROLINA is 6-1 ATS (+7.2 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.
              WASHINGTON is 45-19 ATS (+15.2 Units) after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
              CAROLINA is 1-7 ATS (+9.4 Units) in a home game where where the total is 6 or more this season.
              CAROLINA is 6-18 ATS (+28.0 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              WASHINGTON is 10-8-0 straight up against CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
              9 of 17 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.1 Units)

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              BUFFALO (36-23-0-9, 81 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (28-29-0-12, 68 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:35 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              BUFFALO is 5-11 ATS (-9.8 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more this season.
              BUFFALO is 14-20 ATS (-14.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
              TAMPA BAY is 52-97 ATS (-83.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              BUFFALO is 8-2 (+5.3 Units) against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
              BUFFALO is 8-2-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
              9 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+8.1 Units)

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              NEW JERSEY (41-24-0-3, 85 pts.) at TORONTO (24-35-0-11, 59 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:35 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              NEW JERSEY is 13-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) second half of the season this season.
              NEW JERSEY is 3-9 ATS (-7.4 Units) in road games in March games over the last 2 seasons.
              NEW JERSEY is 2-7 ATS (-7.8 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
              TORONTO is 266-263 ATS (-60.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.
              TORONTO is 24-22 ATS (+55.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
              NEW JERSEY is 94-62 ATS (+11.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
              TORONTO is 24-46 ATS (-49.9 Units) in all games this season.
              TORONTO is 83-99 ATS (-77.0 Units) in home games after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              NEW JERSEY is 7-4-0 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
              6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+3.0 Units)

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              PHOENIX (43-22-0-5, 91 pts.) at FLORIDA (28-30-0-10, 66 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 7:35 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              FLORIDA is 26-22 ATS (+53.2 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
              PHOENIX is 43-27 ATS (+70.1 Units) in all games this season.
              PHOENIX is 14-10 ATS (+26.8 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
              PHOENIX is 18-10 ATS (+7.1 Units) second half of the season this season.
              PHOENIX is 12-4 ATS (+16.2 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
              PHOENIX is 21-11 ATS (+8.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
              PHOENIX is 6-1 ATS (+7.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
              FLORIDA is 110-124 ATS (+249.3 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.
              FLORIDA is 44-69 ATS (-42.7 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1996.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              PHOENIX is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against the spread versus FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
              PHOENIX is 1-0-0 straight up against FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
              0 of 0 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.0 Units)

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              MINNESOTA (34-29-0-6, 74 pts.) at NASHVILLE (39-26-0-5, 83 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 8:05 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              NASHVILLE is 38-31 ATS (+77.1 Units) in all games this season.
              NASHVILLE is 21-11 ATS (+35.6 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
              MINNESOTA is 18-13 ATS (+33.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              MINNESOTA is 7-4 (+2.3 Units) against the spread versus NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
              MINNESOTA is 7-4-0 straight up against NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
              7 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+3.6 Units)

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              PHILADELPHIA (36-28-0-5, 77 pts.) at DALLAS (30-26-0-13, 73 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 8:35 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              PHILADELPHIA is 4-10 ATS (-9.5 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
              PHILADELPHIA is 4-13 ATS (+17.1 Units) in road games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
              DALLAS is 61-58 ATS (+0.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
              DALLAS is 3-9 ATS (-9.4 Units) in home games in March games over the last 2 seasons.
              DALLAS is 3-11 ATS (-8.0 Units) after a win by 2 goals or more this season.
              DALLAS is 7-15 ATS (-10.1 Units) after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game this season.
              DALLAS is 3-13 ATS (-11.9 Units) after playing 3 consecutive home games over the last 2 seasons.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              PHILADELPHIA is 2-1 (+0.7 Units) against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
              PHILADELPHIA is 2-1-0 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
              2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.0 Units)

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              SAN JOSE (43-16-0-10, 96 pts.) at VANCOUVER (43-24-0-3, 89 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 10:05 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              SAN JOSE is 44-35 ATS (-19.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
              SAN JOSE is 14-18 ATS (-12.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
              VANCOUVER is 45-27 ATS (+16.5 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
              VANCOUVER is 16-5 ATS (+7.1 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
              SAN JOSE is 11-3 ATS (+7.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
              VANCOUVER is 144-150 ATS (-86.7 Units) in home games second half of the season since 1996.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              SAN JOSE is 8-1 (+7.1 Units) against the spread versus VANCOUVER over the last 3 seasons
              SAN JOSE is 8-1-0 straight up against VANCOUVER over the last 3 seasons
              5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.6 Units)

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

              CHICAGO (44-18-0-6, 94 pts.) at LOS ANGELES (40-23-0-5, 85 pts.) - 3/18/2010, 10:35 PM
              Top Trends for this game.
              CHICAGO is 9-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in March games over the last 2 seasons.
              LOS ANGELES is 40-28 ATS (-0.5 Units) in all games this season.
              CHICAGO is 120-124 ATS (+274.1 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.
              CHICAGO is 70-55 ATS (+11.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
              LOS ANGELES is 102-124 ATS (+233.9 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.

              Head-to-Head Series History
              CHICAGO is 6-5-0 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
              6 of 11 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.3 Units)

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

              Comment


              • #8
                NHL


                Thursday, March 18

                --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Ice picks: Today's best NHL bets
                --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                St. Louis Blues at New York Rangers (-140, 5.5)

                After a paltry offensive performance on Tuesday, the Rangers shook up their scoring lines in Wednesday’s practice, splitting up Vinny Prospal and Marian Gaborik.

                But team captain Chris Drury pointed out additional deficiencies after the game.

                "It's immaturity. That's what it's been all year,” Drury said. “It's so obvious how we have to play and see how successful we can be with it, and it just again, it bites us in the ass. We're just not consistent with it.”

                Not exactly a ton of confidence in the captain with 12 games left to play and the Rangers three points removed from the final playoff spot. But calling his squad out should spark a renewed effort in the team.

                New York will continue its topsy-turvy ways and bounce back with a win over the Blues who have lost two straight.

                Pick: Rangers


                Washington Capitals at Carolina Hurricanes (+130, 6)


                Who needs the best player in the NHL anyway? Washington doesn’t appear desperate for the return of Alex Ovechkin.

                The Caps cruised to a 7-3 win over Florida on Tuesday in their first game since Ovechkin was suspended. When the league’s scoring leader was suspended in early December, Washington went 2-0 while outscoring its opponents 14-4, and the team is 7-2-0 overall without Ovechkin this season.

                "It's nice that everyone contributes when he’s not in there," said Jason Chimera. "That's important down the stretch in case someone big like that goes out. It's nice to know we can score goals without him."

                Scoring goals is what the Caps do best but it would be unwise to bet against a desperate home team like the Hurricanes who have been hot the past two and a half months. The last three in this series have gone over.

                Pick: Over


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

                Comment


                • #9
                  NCAAB
                  Dunkel



                  I'll post today's POD asap.

                  THURSDAY, MARCH 18

                  Game 705-706: Ohio vs. Georgetown

                  Dunkel Ratings: Ohio 58.014; Georgetown 73.673
                  Dunkel Line: Georgetown by 15 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Georgetown by 13
                  Dunkel Pick: Georgetown (-13)

                  Game 707-708: San Diego State vs. Tennessee
                  Dunkel Ratings: San Diego State 68.897; Tennessee 66.815
                  Dunkel Line: San Diego State by 2
                  Vegas Line: Tennessee by 3 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: San Diego State (+3 1/2)

                  Game 709-710: Robert Morris vs. Villanova
                  Dunkel Ratings: Robert Morris 54.657; Villanova 69.078
                  Dunkel Line: Villanova by 14 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Villanova by 18 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Robert Morris (+18 1/2)

                  Game 711-712: St. Mary's (CA) vs. Richmond
                  Dunkel Ratings: St. Mary's (CA) 64.298; Richmond 65.777
                  Dunkel Line: Richmond by 1 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Richmond by 2 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: St. Mary's (CA) (+2 1/2)

                  Game 713-714: East Tennessee State vs. Kentucky
                  Dunkel Ratings: East Tennessee State 52.867; Kentucky 72.682
                  Dunkel Line: Kentucky by 20
                  Vegas Line: Kentucky by 19 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Kentucky (-19 1/2)

                  Game 715-716: Wake Forest vs. Texas
                  Dunkel Ratings: Wake Forest 62.370; Texas 68.839
                  Dunkel Line: Texas by 6 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Texas by 4 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Texas (-4 1/2)

                  Game 717-718: Sam Houston vs. Baylor
                  Dunkel Ratings: Sam Houston 59.024; Baylor 69.157
                  Dunkel Line: Baylor by 10
                  Vegas Line: Baylor by 11
                  Dunkel Pick: Sam Houston (+11)

                  Game 719-720: Old Dominion vs. Notre Dame
                  Dunkel Ratings: Old Dominion 65.931; Notre Dame 71.754
                  Dunkel Line: Notre Dame by 6
                  Vegas Line: Notre Dame by 2
                  Dunkel Pick: Notre Dame (-2)

                  Game 721-722: Lehigh vs. Kansas
                  Dunkel Ratings: Lehigh 56.235; Kansas 78.492
                  Dunkel Line: Kansas by 22 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Kansas by 26
                  Dunkel Pick: Lehigh (+26)

                  Game 723-724: Northern Iowa vs. UNLV
                  Dunkel Ratings: Northern Iowa 66.699; UNLV 66.530
                  Dunkel Line: Even
                  Vegas Line: UNLV by 1 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Northern Iowa (+1 1/2)

                  Game 725-726: North Texas at Kansas State
                  Dunkel Ratings: North Texas 55.666; Kansas State 69.866
                  Dunkel Line: Kansas State by 14
                  Vegas Line: Kansas State by 16
                  Dunkel Pick: North Texas (+16)

                  Game 727-728: Florida vs. BYU
                  Dunkel Ratings: Florida 66.643; BYU 71.440
                  Dunkel Line: BYU by 5
                  Vegas Line: BYU by 4 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: BYU (-4 1/2)

                  Game 729-730: UTEP vs. Butler
                  Dunkel Ratings: UTEP 68.375; Butler 66.868
                  Dunkel Line: UTEP by 1 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Butler by 2 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: UTEP (+2 1/2)

                  Game 731-732: Murray State vs. Vanderbilt
                  Dunkel Ratings: Murray State 63.714; Vanderbilt 65.752
                  Dunkel Line: Vanderbilt by 2
                  Vegas Line: Vanderbilt by 3
                  Dunkel Pick: Murray State (+3)

                  Game 733-734: Montana vs. New Mexico
                  Dunkel Ratings: Montana 57.736; New Mexico 65.680
                  Dunkel Line: New Mexico by 8
                  Vegas Line: New Mexico by 9
                  Dunkel Pick: Montana (+9)

                  Game 735-736: Washington vs. Marquette
                  Dunkel Ratings: Washington 70.778; Marquette 70.449
                  Dunkel Line: Even
                  Vegas Line: Marquette by 2
                  Dunkel Pick: Washington (+2)

                  Game 823-824: Vermont vs. Syracuse
                  Dunkel Ratings: Vermont 58.266; Syracuse 71.037
                  Dunkel Line: Syracuse by 13
                  Vegas Line: Syracuse by 17 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Vermont (+17 1/2)

                  Game 825-826: Florida State vs. Gonzaga
                  Dunkel Ratings: Florida State 67.966; Gonzaga 67.275
                  Dunkel Line: Florida State by 1
                  Vegas Line: Florida State by 1 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Gonzaga (+1 1/2)

                  Game 827-828: Morgan State vs. West Virginia
                  Dunkel Ratings: Morgan State 54.356; West Virginia 71.744
                  Dunkel Line: West Virginia by 17 1/2
                  Vegas Line: West Virginia by 17
                  Dunkel Pick: West Virginia (-17)

                  Game 829-830: Missouri vs. Clemson
                  Dunkel Ratings: Missouri 65.655; Clemson 71.628
                  Dunkel Line: Clemson by 6
                  Vegas Line: Clemson by 1
                  Dunkel Pick: Clemson (-1)

                  Game 831-832: Cornell vs. Temple
                  Dunkel Ratings: Cornell 61.561; Temple 66.009
                  Dunkel Line: Temple by 4 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Temple by 3 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Temple (-3 1/2)

                  Game 833-834: Wofford vs. Wisconsin
                  Dunkel Ratings: Wofford 60.304; Wisconsin 69.945
                  Dunkel Line: Wisconsin by 9 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Wisconsin by 10
                  Dunkel Pick: Wofford (+10)

                  Game 835-836: AR-Pine Bluff vs. Duke
                  Dunkel Ratings: AR-Pine Bluff 48.109; Duke 76.435
                  Dunkel Line: Duke by 28 1/2
                  Vegas Line: No Line
                  Dunkel Pick: N/A

                  Game 837-838: Louisville vs. California
                  Dunkel Ratings: Louisville 68.711; California 70.630
                  Dunkel Line: California by 2
                  Vegas Line: Louisville by 1
                  Dunkel Pick: California (+1)

                  Game 839-840: UC-Santa Barbara vs. Ohio State
                  Dunkel Ratings: UC-Santa Barbara 57.543; Ohio State 73.486
                  Dunkel Line: Ohio State by 16
                  Vegas Line: Ohio State by 17
                  Dunkel Pick: UC-Santa Barbara (+17)

                  Game 841-842: Georgia Tech vs. Oklahoma State
                  Dunkel Ratings: Georgia Tech 66.698; Oklahoma State 70.002
                  Dunkel Line: Oklahoma State by 3 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Oklahoma State by 1 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma State (-1 1/2)

                  Game 843-844: Oakland vs. Pittsburgh
                  Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 58.574; Pittsburgh 68.319
                  Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 9 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 10 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Oakland (+10 1/2)

                  Game 845-846: Minnesota vs. Xavier
                  Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 69.748; Xavier 69.314
                  Dunkel Line: Even
                  Vegas Line: Minnesota by 1
                  Dunkel Pick: Xavier (+1)

                  Game 847-848: New Mexico State vs. Michigan State
                  Dunkel Ratings: New Mexico State 62.288; Michigan State 70.730
                  Dunkel Line: Michigan State by 8 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Michigan State by 13 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: New Mexico State (+13 1/2)

                  Game 849-850: Houston vs. Maryland
                  Dunkel Ratings: Houston 62.501; Maryland 71.952
                  Dunkel Line: Maryland by 9 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Maryland by 9
                  Dunkel Pick: Maryland (-9)

                  Game 851-852: Utah State vs. Texas A&M
                  Dunkel Ratings: Utah State 69.819; Texas A&M 73.405
                  Dunkel Line: Texas A&M by 3 1/2
                  Vegas Line: Texas A&M by 2 1/2
                  Dunkel Pick: Texas A&M (-2 1/2)

                  Game 853-854: Siena vs. Purdue
                  Dunkel Ratings: Siena 63.290; Purdue 68.089
                  Dunkel Line: Purdue by 5
                  Vegas Line: Purdue by 4
                  Dunkel Pick: Purdue (-4)

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    NCAAB
                    Long Sheet



                    Thursday, March 18

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

                    OHIO U (21 - 14) vs. GEORGETOWN (23 - 10) - 3/18/2010, 7:25 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    GEORGETOWN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all neutral court games this season.
                    GEORGETOWN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing on a neutral court this season.
                    GEORGETOWN is 64-38 ATS (+22.2 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
                    OHIO U is 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) after a conference game this season.
                    OHIO U is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) off a win against a conference rival this season.
                    OHIO U is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) after scoring 80 points or more this season.
                    OHIO U is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games in first round tournament games since 1997.

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

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

                    SAN DIEGO ST (25 - 8) vs. TENNESSEE (25 - 8) - 3/18/2010, 9:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    SAN DIEGO ST is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) after allowing 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
                    TENNESSEE is 22-42 ATS (-24.2 Units) in all neutral court games since 1997.
                    TENNESSEE is 22-42 ATS (-24.2 Units) when playing on a neutral court since 1997.
                    TENNESSEE is 16-38 ATS (-25.8 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.

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

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

                    ROBERT MORRIS (23 - 11) vs. VILLANOVA (24 - 7) - 3/18/2010, 12:30 PM
                    There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

                    ST MARYS-CA (26 - 5) vs. RICHMOND (26 - 8) - 3/18/2010, 3:00 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    ST MARYS-CA is 24-41 ATS (-21.1 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game since 1997.
                    RICHMOND is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all games this season.
                    RICHMOND is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    RICHMOND is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in road games after a conference game this season.
                    RICHMOND is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
                    RICHMOND is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) after allowing 60 points or less this season.
                    RICHMOND is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games after scoring 60 points or less over the last 3 seasons.
                    RICHMOND is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    RICHMOND is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.
                    ST MARYS-CA is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) in all games this season.
                    ST MARYS-CA is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    ST MARYS-CA is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in non-conference games this season.
                    ST MARYS-CA is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games after scoring 80 points or more over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

                    E TENN ST (20 - 14) vs. KENTUCKY (32 - 2) - 3/18/2010, 7:10 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    KENTUCKY is 85-59 ATS (+20.1 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
                    E TENN ST is 17-2 ATS (+14.8 Units) in March games since 1997.
                    E TENN ST is 57-35 ATS (+18.5 Units) after a conference game since 1997.
                    E TENN ST is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.
                    E TENN ST is 31-12 ATS (+17.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
                    E TENN ST is 16-3 ATS (+12.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games since 1997.

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

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

                    WAKE FOREST (19 - 10) vs. TEXAS (24 - 9) - 3/18/2010, 9:45 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    WAKE FOREST is 15-37 ATS (-25.7 Units) in all neutral court games since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 15-29 ATS (-16.9 Units) in road games in March games since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 49-72 ATS (-30.2 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 15-37 ATS (-25.7 Units) when playing on a neutral court since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 17-37 ATS (-23.7 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in a NCAA tournament games since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 69-101 ATS (-42.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 38-66 ATS (-34.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
                    WAKE FOREST is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
                    TEXAS is 24-36 ATS (-15.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEXAS is 24-36 ATS (-15.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEXAS is 3-14 ATS (-12.4 Units) after a conference game this season.
                    TEXAS is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games this season.
                    TEXAS is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.

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

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

                    SAM HOUSTON ST (25 - 7) vs. BAYLOR (25 - 7) - 3/18/2010, 2:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    BAYLOR is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
                    BAYLOR is 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

                    OLD DOMINION (26 - 8) vs. NOTRE DAME (23 - 11) - 3/18/2010, 12:25 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    OLD DOMINION is 13-26 ATS (-15.6 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
                    OLD DOMINION is 55-81 ATS (-34.1 Units) after allowing 60 points or less since 1997.
                    OLD DOMINION is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    NOTRE DAME is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    NOTRE DAME is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.

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

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

                    LEHIGH (22 - 10) vs. KANSAS (32 - 2) - 3/18/2010, 9:40 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    KANSAS is 31-19 ATS (+10.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
                    KANSAS is 23-10 ATS (+12.0 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
                    There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

                    N IOWA (28 - 4) vs. UNLV (25 - 8) - 3/18/2010, 7:10 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    UNLV is 164-126 ATS (+25.4 Units) in all games since 1997.
                    UNLV is 164-126 ATS (+25.4 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
                    UNLV is 14-7 ATS (+6.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    UNLV is 75-49 ATS (+21.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
                    N IOWA is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) in all games this season.
                    N IOWA is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    N IOWA is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
                    N IOWA is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) after a conference game this season.
                    N IOWA is 12-5 ATS (+6.5 Units) off a win against a conference rival this season.
                    N IOWA is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) after allowing 60 points or less this season.
                    N IOWA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    N IOWA is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
                    N IOWA is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.
                    N IOWA is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game over the last 2 seasons.
                    UNLV is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) after scoring 60 points or less over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

                    N TEXAS (24 - 8) vs. KANSAS ST (26 - 7) - 3/18/2010, 2:50 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    KANSAS ST is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all games this season.
                    KANSAS ST is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    KANSAS ST is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    KANSAS ST is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    N TEXAS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all games this season.
                    N TEXAS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    N TEXAS is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as an underdog this season.
                    N TEXAS is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in March games since 1997.
                    N TEXAS is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    N TEXAS is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.
                    KANSAS ST is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in March games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

                    FLORIDA (21 - 12) vs. BYU (29 - 5) - 3/18/2010, 12:20 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    BYU is 138-87 ATS (+42.3 Units) as a favorite since 1997.
                    FLORIDA is 201-162 ATS (+22.8 Units) in all games since 1997.
                    FLORIDA is 201-162 ATS (+22.8 Units) in all lined games since 1997.
                    FLORIDA is 77-53 ATS (+18.7 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
                    FLORIDA is 50-28 ATS (+19.2 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.
                    BYU is 47-80 ATS (-41.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.

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

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

                    UTEP (26 - 6) vs. BUTLER (28 - 4) - 3/18/2010, 4:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    BUTLER is 86-56 ATS (+24.4 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
                    BUTLER is 116-85 ATS (+22.5 Units) after allowing 60 points or less since 1997.
                    UTEP is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in road games after a conference game this season.

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

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

                    MURRAY ST (30 - 4) vs. VANDERBILT (24 - 8) - 3/18/2010, 2:30 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    MURRAY ST is 7-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

                    MONTANA (22 - 9) vs. NEW MEXICO (29 - 4) - 3/18/2010, 9:50 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    NEW MEXICO is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
                    NEW MEXICO is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
                    NEW MEXICO is 45-29 ATS (+13.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
                    NEW MEXICO is 29-14 ATS (+13.6 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
                    NEW MEXICO is 33-20 ATS (+11.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

                    WASHINGTON (24 - 9) vs. MARQUETTE (22 - 11) - 3/18/2010, 7:20 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    MARQUETTE is 23-12 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road games after a conference game over the last 3 seasons.
                    MARQUETTE is 16-8 ATS (+7.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    MARQUETTE is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.

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

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

                    SOUTHERN MISS (20 - 13) at LOUISIANA TECH (23 - 10) - 3/18/2010, 8:00 PM
                    There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

                    Friday, March 19

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

                    VERMONT (25 - 9) vs. SYRACUSE (28 - 4) - 3/19/2010, 9:40 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    SYRACUSE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all games this season.
                    SYRACUSE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    SYRACUSE is 50-30 ATS (+17.0 Units) in all neutral court games since 1997.
                    SYRACUSE is 50-30 ATS (+17.0 Units) when playing on a neutral court since 1997.
                    SYRACUSE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in road games after scoring 80 points or more this season.
                    SYRACUSE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
                    SYRACUSE is 16-8 ATS (+7.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    VERMONT is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
                    VERMONT is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
                    VERMONT is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

                    FLORIDA ST (22 - 9) vs. GONZAGA (26 - 6) - 3/19/2010, 7:20 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    FLORIDA ST is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) in all games this season.
                    FLORIDA ST is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    FLORIDA ST is 6-13 ATS (-8.3 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    FLORIDA ST is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    FLORIDA ST is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.
                    GONZAGA is 42-25 ATS (+14.5 Units) as an underdog since 1997.

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

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

                    MORGAN ST (27 - 9) vs. W VIRGINIA (27 - 6) - 3/19/2010, 12:15 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    W VIRGINIA is 78-55 ATS (+17.5 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
                    W VIRGINIA is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in a NCAA tournament games since 1997.

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

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

                    MISSOURI (22 - 10) vs. CLEMSON (21 - 10) - 3/19/2010, 2:45 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    MISSOURI is 34-23 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
                    MISSOURI is 34-23 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
                    CLEMSON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all neutral court games over the last 2 seasons.
                    CLEMSON is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in road games after a conference game this season.
                    CLEMSON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing on a neutral court over the last 2 seasons.
                    CLEMSON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
                    CLEMSON is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in road games in first round tournament games since 1997.
                    CLEMSON is 1-11 ATS (-11.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    CLEMSON is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games this season.

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

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

                    CORNELL (27 - 4) vs. TEMPLE (29 - 5) - 3/19/2010, 12:30 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    CORNELL is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEMPLE is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all games this season.
                    TEMPLE is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    TEMPLE is 18-10 ATS (+7.0 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    TEMPLE is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in March games over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEMPLE is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEMPLE is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) off a win against a conference rival over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEMPLE is 15-7 ATS (+7.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    TEMPLE is 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 3 seasons.
                    CORNELL is 85-55 ATS (+24.5 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
                    CORNELL is 54-34 ATS (+16.6 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
                    CORNELL is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in road games in non-conference games this season.
                    CORNELL is 31-15 ATS (+14.5 Units) in road games after allowing 60 points or less since 1997.

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

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

                    WOFFORD (26 - 8) vs. WISCONSIN (23 - 8) - 3/19/2010, 3:00 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    WISCONSIN is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.
                    WOFFORD is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as an underdog this season.
                    WOFFORD is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in non-conference games this season.
                    WISCONSIN is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 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
                    WISCONSIN is 1-0 against the spread versus WOFFORD over the last 3 seasons
                    WISCONSIN is 1-0 straight up against WOFFORD over the last 3 seasons
                    1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

                    LOUISVILLE (20 - 12) vs. CALIFORNIA (23 - 10) - 3/19/2010, 9:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    LOUISVILLE is 23-40 ATS (-21.0 Units) in all neutral court games since 1997.
                    LOUISVILLE is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) after a conference game this season.
                    LOUISVILLE is 23-40 ATS (-21.0 Units) when playing on a neutral court since 1997.

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

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

                    UC-SANTA BARBARA (20 - 9) vs. OHIO ST (27 - 7) - 3/19/2010, 9:45 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    OHIO ST is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) after scoring 80 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
                    OHIO ST is 40-26 ATS (+11.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
                    OHIO ST is 28-15 ATS (+11.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 3 seasons.
                    UC-SANTA BARBARA is 12-5 ATS (+6.5 Units) after a conference game this season.

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

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

                    GEORGIA TECH (22 - 12) vs. OKLAHOMA ST (22 - 10) - 3/19/2010, 7:15 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    OKLAHOMA ST is 12-1 ATS (+10.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    OKLAHOMA ST is 73-48 ATS (+20.2 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
                    OKLAHOMA ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in road games in first round tournament games since 1997.

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

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

                    OAKLAND (26 - 8) vs. PITTSBURGH (24 - 8) - 3/19/2010, 2:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    PITTSBURGH is 19-6 ATS (+12.4 Units) on Friday nights since 1997.
                    PITTSBURGH is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
                    OAKLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in March games over the last 2 seasons.
                    OAKLAND is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
                    PITTSBURGH is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games in March games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

                    MINNESOTA (21 - 13) vs. XAVIER (24 - 8) - 3/19/2010, 12:25 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    MINNESOTA is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) in road games after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
                    XAVIER is 20-11 ATS (+7.9 Units) in all games this season.
                    XAVIER is 20-11 ATS (+7.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    XAVIER is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    XAVIER is 22-12 ATS (+8.8 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
                    XAVIER is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
                    XAVIER is 78-50 ATS (+23.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.

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

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

                    NEW MEXICO ST (22 - 11) vs. MICHIGAN ST (24 - 8) - 3/19/2010, 7:20 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    NEW MEXICO ST is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in road games in March games since 1997.
                    MICHIGAN ST is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

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

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

                    HOUSTON (19 - 15) vs. MARYLAND (23 - 8) - 3/19/2010, 9:50 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    HOUSTON is 13-28 ATS (-17.8 Units) after scoring 80 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
                    MARYLAND is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) after a conference game this season.
                    MARYLAND is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 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
                    There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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

                    UTAH ST (27 - 7) vs. TEXAS A&M (23 - 9) - 3/19/2010, 4:55 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    TEXAS A&M is 18-10 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all games this season.
                    TEXAS A&M is 18-10 ATS (+7.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    TEXAS A&M is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEXAS A&M is 26-16 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEXAS A&M is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
                    TEXAS A&M is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.
                    UTAH ST is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all games this season.
                    UTAH ST is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
                    UTAH ST is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) after a conference game this season.

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

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

                    SIENA (27 - 6) vs. PURDUE (27 - 5) - 3/19/2010, 2:30 PM
                    Top Trends for this game.
                    PURDUE is 10-18 ATS (-9.8 Units) as a favorite this season.
                    PURDUE is 68-95 ATS (-36.5 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
                    PURDUE is 37-62 ATS (-31.2 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.

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

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

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      NCAAB
                      Write-Up



                      Thursday, March 18

                      Thursday's NCAA games


                      Ohio U won its last five games, with two of last four going OT; they're 10-1 vs spread in last 11 games, but lost by 25 to Pitt on only game vs a Big East foe. MAC teams are 6-3 vs spread in last nine first round tilts, but are 0-6 SU in first round. Georgetown won four of last five games, is 7-4 vs spread in last 11 as a favorite. MAC underdogs are 33-38.

                      San Diego State won nine of last 10 games, covered 12 of last 15, seven of nine as underdog; MWC underdogs are 15-13 vs spread. Tennessee is 5-1 in last six games, but just 3-7 vs spread in last 10 games as favorite. Pearl is 3-1 in first round with Vols, winning by 2-35-15 points. Aztecs are 11-2 in non-league games, losing at St Mary's by 22, at ASU by 3.

                      Villanova lost five of last seven games, but is 7-3-1 vs spread as favorite in non-league games; Big East favorites are 50-53 vs spread in non-league games. Robert Morris ranks 36th in forcing turnovers, but Wildcats have veteran crew on perimeter. NEC covered six of last seven tourney games, which includes two play-in wins. #2 seeds are 7-5 vs spread last 3 years.

                      St Mary's won last five games; they're 13-2 outside WCC, losing to USC and Vanderbilt; Gaels haven't played in 10 days. Richmond played A-14 title game Sunday. Spiders are 11-4 outside A-14, losing at VCU, Wake, So Carolina and Wm Mary. WCC dogs are 24-30 vs spread. A-14 faves are 32-26. Early game/cross-country travel for Gaels favors Richmond.

                      Did Jacksonville's NIT win Tuesday give East Tennessee St confidence? Buccaneers lost by 10 to Pitt in first round LY- they lost to Louisville by 13, Tennessee by 12 this year, so they're not stiffs. Calipari's Tigers struggled with Northridge in first round LY- Wildcats won SEC title on Sunday, in OT. #1 seed in East is 5-13 vs spread in last 18 1st rounders.

                      Wake Forest lost five of last six games, but covered six of last eight as an underdog. Texas is 7-9 in last 16 games, 3-11 vs spread in last 14 games as a favorite. Longhorns won last four first round games by 8-12-20-14 points, but Wake has decided edge at PG here with senior Smith, who is dreadful shooter but good leader. ACC underdogs are 12-8 vs spread.

                      Sam Houston State lost at Kentucky by 10, beat Auburn by 18' they're shooting 38% from arc, rank 2nd in country in assist/basket ratio, but in three tourneys since Northwestern State upset Iowa, Southland teams lost by 13-24-15 points. Baylor has good big man, but against team that shoots 3's, that matters less. Bears are 3-0 as a double digit favorite.

                      Old Dominion won eight of last nine games; they're first in country in %age of points scored on 2-point shots, and offensive rebounding %age. These two teams rank 297/304 in pace, so low-possession game likely. Notre Dame won six of last seven games; its last five losses are all by 3 or less points. CAA teams are 3-10 in last thirteen first round games.

                      Patriot League teams lost last three first round games by 10-15-15 pts since Bucknell won in '05/'06 ('05 win was vs Kansas); Lehigh lost by 18 to Dayton, Richmond by 12, top teams they played this year. Kansas is 3-3 vs spread in last six first round games, 5-6 as non-league favorite this year. Big 12 favorites are 45-28 against spread in non-conference games.

                      Northern Iowa allowed just 46.8 ppg in winning last four games; they're 10-1 outside MVC, beating MWC's Wyoming by 18; Panthers are #342 in pace, so they want to slow down UNLV team that won six of its last seven games (only one was on road); they beat MVC's Southern Illinois by 9. UNI ranks 90th in experience, UNLV is 254th, so edge Panthers.

                      North Texas won last 10 games, is 6-1-1 vs spread as underdog; they've lost by 14 at Oklahoma State, 10 at Texas A&M, so they shouldn't be in awe of K-State team that is 2-3 in last five games, losing on Senior Day to Iowa State. Odd stat: #2 seed in West is 2-11 vs spread in first round last 13 years. K-State was last favored in an NCAA game back in 1993.

                      Florida lost four of last five games, BYU won seven of last nine; Gators are working on 12-0 tourney win streak, but those players are long gone. BYU hasn't won tourney game since '93, losing last six first round games (were favored in last two) but last time they won in NCAAs was as #7 seed, last time they were this high a seed. Gators are 6-3 as NCAA dog.

                      UTEP is 16-1 in last 17 games, losing C-USA final Saturday; they gave up 75+ points in their losses, 81+ in four of five. Miners played 263rd ranked non-league schedule, Butler #4, so Bulldogs more battle-tested. Butler won last 20 games, but lost by 10 at C-USA's UAB early in year. #12 seeds are 5-3 SU vs 5 seeds in first round the last two tournaments.

                      Mother one of one Murray State's players died in car wreck earlier this week, so Racers dealing with tragedy; Murray is in tournament for first time since '06- they lost last nine first round games, covering one of last four. Racers are #12 in offensive rebounding, Vandy is #256 on defensive boards. Commodores want to get ball inside against smaller Murray St.

                      Big Sky teams are 1-9 in first round last 10 years, but Montana was the winner, upsetting Nevada (+5.5) in '06; Griz was down 20 at half in Big Sky final, were brought back by prolific G Johnson, who scored 34 of 42 Montana points in second half. New Mexico is 15-1 in last 16 games, is 0-5 vs spread in last five as fave- they beat Big Sky's No Arizona by 39.

                      Washington won last seven games, all road/neutral games; they lost by 8 on neutral floor to Big East's Georgetown in fall. At one point, Huskies were 7-7 in Pac-10, then caught fire. Marquette is 11-3 in last 14 games, with six of last eight decided by 4 or less points, or in OT. Battle of pace as Washington plays 10th-fastest games in country, Marquette 305th.

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        NCAAB


                        Thursday, March 18


                        ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Trend Report
                        ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                        12:20 PM
                        FLORIDA vs. BYU
                        Florida is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 4 of Florida's last 6 games
                        BYU is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games
                        BYU is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games

                        12:25 PM
                        OLD DOMINION vs. NOTRE DAME
                        Old Dominion is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 7 of Old Dominion's last 8 games
                        Notre Dame is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Notre Dame is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games

                        12:30 PM
                        ROBERT MORRIS vs. VILLANOVA
                        No trends available
                        Villanova is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games
                        Villanova is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games

                        2:30 PM
                        MURRAY STATE vs. VANDERBILT
                        Murray State is 21-1 SU in its last 22 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Murray State's last 6 games
                        Vanderbilt is 18-5 SU in its last 23 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 12 of Vanderbilt's last 16 games

                        2:50 PM
                        NORTH TEXAS vs. KANSAS STATE
                        North Texas is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games
                        North Texas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Kansas State is 12-6 ATS in its last 18 games
                        Kansas State is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games

                        2:55 PM
                        SAM HOUSTON STATE vs. BAYLOR
                        No trends available
                        Baylor is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Baylor is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

                        3:00 PM
                        ST. MARY'S vs. RICHMOND
                        St. Mary's is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        St. Mary's is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Richmond is 10-3-1 ATS in its last 14 games
                        Richmond is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games

                        4:55 PM
                        TEXAS EL PASO vs. BUTLER
                        Texas El Paso is 16-1 SU in its last 17 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas El Paso's last 6 games
                        Butler is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Butler's last 5 games

                        7:10 PM
                        NORTHERN IOWA vs. UNLV
                        Northern Iowa is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
                        Northern Iowa is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games
                        UNLV is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 7 of UNLV's last 10 games

                        7:15 PM
                        EAST TENNESSEE STATE vs. KENTUCKY
                        No trends available
                        Kentucky is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
                        Kentucky is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

                        7:20 PM
                        WASHINGTON vs. MARQUETTE
                        Washington is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
                        Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Marquette is 13-6 ATS in its last 19 games
                        Marquette is 11-3 SU in its last 14 games

                        7:25 PM
                        OHIO vs. GEORGETOWN
                        Ohio is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Ohio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Georgetown is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Georgetown is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

                        8:00 PM
                        SOUTHERN MISS vs. LOUISIANA TECH
                        Southern Miss is 13-4 ATS in its last 17 games
                        Southern Miss is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
                        Louisiana Tech is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games at home
                        Louisiana Tech is 17-2 SU in its last 19 games at home

                        9:40 PM
                        LEHIGH vs. KANSAS
                        No trends available
                        Kansas is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Kansas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

                        9:45 PM
                        WAKE FOREST vs. TEXAS
                        Wake Forest is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
                        Wake Forest is 15-8 SU in its last 23 games
                        Texas is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games

                        9:50 PM
                        MONTANA vs. NEW MEXICO
                        Montana is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games
                        Montana is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
                        New Mexico is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
                        New Mexico is 15-1 SU in its last 16 games

                        9:55 PM
                        SAN DIEGO STATE vs. TENNESSEE
                        San Diego State is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 games
                        San Diego State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Tennessee is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games
                        Tennessee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games



                        Friday, March 19

                        12:15 PM
                        MORGAN STATE vs. WEST VIRGINIA
                        No trends available
                        West Virginia is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
                        West Virginia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

                        12:25 PM
                        MINNESOTA vs. XAVIER
                        Minnesota is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Minnesota is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
                        Xavier is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 games
                        Xavier is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games

                        12:30 PM
                        CORNELL vs. TEMPLE
                        Cornell is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games
                        Cornell is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Temple is 6-0-1 ATS in its last 7 games
                        Temple is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

                        2:30 PM
                        SIENA vs. PURDUE
                        Siena is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
                        Siena is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Purdue is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Purdue is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games

                        2:45 PM
                        MISSOURI vs. CLEMSON
                        Missouri is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Missouri is 17-7 SU in its last 24 games
                        Clemson is 15-8 SU in its last 23 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Clemson's last 6 games

                        2:55 PM
                        OAKLAND vs. PITTSBURGH
                        No trends available
                        Pittsburgh is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games

                        3:00 PM
                        WOFFORD vs. WISCONSIN
                        Wofford is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games
                        Wofford is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        Wisconsin is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 17 of Wisconsin's last 22 games

                        4:55 PM
                        UTAH STATE vs. TEXAS A&M
                        Utah State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Utah State is 17-1 SU in its last 18 games
                        Texas A&M is 10-2 ATS in its last 12 games
                        Texas A&M is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

                        7:10 PM
                        FLORIDA STATE vs. GONZAGA
                        Florida State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Florida State is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
                        Gonzaga is 18-3 SU in its last 21 games

                        7:15 PM
                        GEORGIA TECH vs. OKLAHOMA STATE
                        Georgia Tech is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Georgia Tech's last 5 games
                        Oklahoma State is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games
                        Oklahoma State is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games

                        7:20 PM
                        NEW MEXICO STATE vs. MICHIGAN STATE
                        New Mexico State is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games
                        New Mexico State is 19-5 SU in its last 24 games
                        Michigan State is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games
                        Michigan State is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games

                        9:40 PM
                        VERMONT vs. SYRACUSE
                        No trends available
                        Syracuse is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
                        Syracuse is 21-4 SU in its last 25 games

                        9:45 PM
                        SANTA BARBARA vs. OHIO STATE
                        Santa Barbara is 13-6 ATS in its last 19 games
                        Santa Barbara is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games
                        Ohio State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
                        The total has gone OVER in 5 of Ohio State's last 7 games

                        9:50 PM
                        HOUSTON vs. MARYLAND
                        Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Houston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
                        Maryland is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
                        Maryland is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games

                        9:55 PM
                        LOUISVILLE vs. CALIFORNIA
                        Louisville is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
                        The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Louisville's last 10 games
                        California is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
                        California is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games


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

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          NCAAB


                          Thursday, March 18


                          ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Best trends for Round 1 of the tourney
                          ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                          The 2010 NCAA Tournament has arrived and with it once final chance to pad our bankrolls for the season. To make that shining moment happen, let’s take a look at how teams in this event have fared most recently in the past.

                          Most recent trends


                          • One-seeds are 76-0 straight up (42-33-1 against the spread) vs. 16-seeds

                          • Two-seeds are 72-4 SU (31-41-4 ATS) vs. 15-seeds

                          • Only twice since 1988 has a 12-seed failed to beat a five-seed (3-1 SU & 4-0 ATS last year)

                          • Favorites of 7 or more points who are 3-0 SU & ATS in their last three games are 15-29-1 ATS vs. a foe off a SU win

                          • Faves between 4 and 12 points playing an opponent off back-to-back SU underdog wins are 38-14-1 ATS (27-6-1 ATS last nine years)

                          • Faves of 20 points or more are 2-12 ATS vs. an opponent off a SU win

                          • Dogs of 18 points or higher off a double-digit ATS win are 6-1 ATS

                          • Dogs of less than 8 points off back-to-back tourney dog wins are 3-16 ATS

                          Because it’s my belief that success in handicapping this tournament is paramount to breaking the action down into rounds, let’s take a peek at some of the more relevant results that have occurred in Round 1 games:

                          Round 1 notes

                          • One-seeds favored by less than 25 points and off back-to-back SU wins are 12-2 ATS

                          • Two-seeds are 6-20-4 ATS vs. foes off a SU win (3-12 last eight years)

                          • Three-seeds off a SU loss as a favorite are 28-1 SU and 21-7-1 ATS (5-0 last three years)

                          • Four-seeds are 25-12 ATS as favorites of less than 9 points (8-2 last four years)

                          • Nine-seeds are 2-6 ATS as favorites of 3 or less points

                          Conference tournament champs in Round 1 of NCAA Tournament

                          ACC: 1-5 ATS, Atlantic 10: 1-4 ATS, Big 10: 2-4 ATS, Big 12: 3-5 ATS, Big East: 2-13 ATS, Big West: 1-4 ATS, Colonial: 12-5 ATS, C-USA: 1-5 ATS, Horizon: 6-2 ATS, MAC: 2-3 ATS, Missouri Valley: 1-4 ATS, Mountain West: 3-7 ATS, Pac-10: 4-1 ATS, Sun Belt: 4-4 ATS, SEC: 2-4 ATS, WAC: 1-4 ATS, West Coast: 2-6 ATS.

                          Teams with best straight up records in this round

                          Purdue: 11-0, Maryland: 9-0, Georgetown: 4-0, Louisville: 4-0, Missouri: 4-0, Oklahoma St: 4-0, Texas A&M: 4-0, Kentucky: 16-1, Duke: 12-1, Pittsburgh: 7-1, Texas: 7-1, Wisconsin: 7-1.

                          Worst teams straight up this round

                          BYU: 0-7, Northern Iowa: 0-4, Utah St: 0-4, Clemson: 0-3.

                          Best teams ATS in this round

                          Xavier: 5-0-2, Arizona St: 4-0, Georgetown: 4-0, Texas A&M: 4-0, Kansas: 3-0, Butler: 5-1, Florida St: 4-1, West Virginia: 4-1.

                          Worst teams ATS

                          Gonzaga: 0-5, Clemson: 0-4, Duke: 0-4, Memphis: 0-3, Marquette: 1-6, Tennessee: 1-6, Georgia Tech: 1-5. Ohio St: 1-4.

                          Best conferences ATS in this round

                          Big 12: 13-1, Big 10: 12-5-1, Colonial: 12-5, Missouri Valley: 13-6, Horizon: 8-4.

                          Worst conferences ATS

                          Ivy: 1-8, West Coast: 1-7, WAC: 1-4, Mountain West: 2-6.

                          If this is not enough to get your blood flowing then you are seriously in need of a cardiologist.


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                          • #14
                            NCAAB


                            Thursday, March 18


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                            NCAA Tournament: Regionals Day 1
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                            East regional

                            No. 1 Kentucky (-19.5, 136) vs. No. 16 East Tennessee State, 6:15 p.m. ET, New Orleans

                            John Calipari can name the score. Will he decide the Wildcats should win by more than 19?

                            He didn’t last year, when Memphis, favored by 20, failed to put away Cal State-Northridge in an 11-point win. Calipari was 0-3 ATS as a double-digit favorite in the first round at Memphis.

                            Kentucky (32-2, 17-15 ATS) is 1-4 ATS this season when favored by more than 19 points.

                            But East Tennessee State (20-14) isn’t very good and especially struggles to score from the outside. The Buccaneers shoot just 31 percent from the 3-point line. With no regular standing over 6-foot-6, it’s hard to imagine ETSU being able find any baskets in the paint against Kentucky’s giant front line.

                            To its credit, ETSU did manage to hang around early in the season in road losses at Tennessee (78-66) and Louisville (69-56).

                            Prediction: Kentucky 89, East Tennessee State 66


                            No. 6 Marquette Golden Eagles (-2, 142.5) vs. No. 11 Washington Huskies, 7:20 p.m. ET, San Jose


                            Is an upper echelon Pac-10 team that has won seven straight is still inferior to a middle-of-the-pack Big East team coming off a 23-point blowout loss?

                            That’s what oddsmakers have decided.

                            Marquette (22-11, 16-10 ATS) heads cross country to San Jose as around a 2-point favorite over Washington (24-9, 14-18 ATS).

                            The Huskies want to run, but upping the tempo hasn’t been easy against Marquette’s methodical, ball-control style. Washington is 3-5 when scoring less than 66 points per game. The Eagles allow 64 points per game.

                            Marquette is one of the best free-throw shooting teams in the nation. Washington commits more than 21 fouls a game. That’s 314th nationally.

                            They have a common opponent in Georgetown. The Huskies hung with the Hoyas, before falling 74-68 in a holiday tournament in Anaheim.

                            Marquette beat Georgetown, 62-59 in early January, but was blown out by the Hoyas, 80-57 in the Big East Tournament.

                            Prediction: Washington 77, Marquette 74


                            No. 3 New Mexico Lobos (-9, 135) vs. No. 14 Montana Grizzlies, 9:50 p.m. ET, San Jose


                            There’s a lot of excitement about New Mexico basketball right now so it’s hard to see the Lobos (29-4, 18-12-2) getting busted in the first round against Montana.

                            “You try booking airlines [to San Jose], and it's almost impossible,” Lobos coach Steve Alford told Albuquerque KOAT TV. “I know what that tells me."

                            Led by point guard Anthony Johnson, an NBA prospect, the Grizzlies (22-9, 17-11 ATS) are the eighth-best 3-point shooting team in the nation. Johnson went off for 42 in the Big Sky title game against Weber State. Montana is 14-3 when Johnson scores 20 or more.

                            Colorado State is the only common opponent. New Mexico beat the Rams twice by 18 and six.

                            Montana lost by one at Colorado State in early January. The Grizzlies beat Oregon by 13 and lost to Washington by only four.

                            Prediction: New Mexico 67, Montana 63


                            No. 8 Texas Longhorns (-4.5, 146) vs. No. 9 Wake Forest Demon Deacons, 9:45 p.m. ET, New Orleans


                            Talk about the Collapse of the Titans, these two talented teams have no business sneaking in as No. 8 and No. 9 seeds.

                            On Jan. 16, the Longhorns were 15-0 and ranked No. 1. They owned impressive wins over Michigan State and Pittsburgh. They looked like locks for a No. 1 seed. Since then, Texas is 6-9 and just 3-12 ATS.

                            On Jan. 16, the Demon Deacons were 12-3, with wins at Gonzaga and against Xavier, Richmond and Maryland. They looked like legitimate ACC contenders. Since then, they are 7-7.

                            Both squads boast NBA talent, so the potential to return to their early-season form is there. The Longhorns are 3-3 since losing starting point guard Dogus Balbay to a knee injury in late February. Two of the losses came against Baylor, a long, athletic team similar to Wake Forest.

                            Statistically, Texas is by far the superior team -hence the rising point spread. But this is game is likely to come down to mental toughness. If either team jumps out to an early lead, the other could fold up the tents quickly.

                            The Longhorns own the experience and coaching advantage. No one’s saying Rick Barnes is John Wooden, but there are some rumblings about how bad Wake’s Deno Gaudio has been getting out-coached in the ACC.

                            Prediction: Texas 82, Wake Forest 68



                            South regional

                            No. 15 Robert Morris Colonials vs. No. 2 Villanova Wildcats (-18, 147.5), 12:30 p.m. ET at Providence

                            In early February, Villanova was arguably the best team in college basketball, ranking second in the nation with a 20-1 record and having covered 15 of its first 19 lined games.

                            The Wildcats have faltered down the stretch, losing five of their last seven and are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 contests. They are led by guard Scottie Reynolds (18.5 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 3.3 apg), one of the best players in the South Region.

                            Unlike Villanova, Robert Morris is on a roll, winning 16 of its last 19 games, including three games in the NEC tournament (2-1 ATS). The Colonials are known for their defense. Opponents are shooting less than 41 percent from the floor against them this season while only two of the team’s last 16 foes have scored more than 67 points.

                            Despite appearing otherwise, Villanova coach Jay Wright recently said his team is “okay…we’re getting better.” That’s hard to believe considering the Wildcats’ recent struggles. Villanova will undoubtedly win its first-round game but it’ll likely not be in a blowout against the defensive-minded Colonials.

                            Final score prediction: Villanova 77, Robert Morris 64


                            No. 10 St. Mary’s Gaels vs. No. 7 Richmond Spiders (-2, 134.5), 3:00 p.m. ET at Providence


                            Although it may have the best backcourt in the region, Richmond has the disadvantage of tipping off in the first afternoon of the Big Dance, only four days removed from playing three consecutive Atlantic 10 tournament games.

                            The Spiders’ guard tandem of Kevin Anderson (17.9 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 2.6 apg) and David Gonzalvez (14.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.3 apg) spearhead a unique and modified version of Pete Carril’s Princeton offense.

                            St. Mary’s has one of the tournament’s premier big men in 265-pound center Omar Samhan (20.9 ppg, 10.9 rpg, 3.0 blocks). In addition, the Gaels rank fourth in the entire country in 3-point percentage (41.2) and fifth in the nation in 3-point percentage defense (28.3 percent).

                            St. Mary’s might be at a bigger disadvantage than Richmond, having not played a game in 10 days since its win over Gonzaga for the WCC championship. In addition, Richmond coach Chris Mooney, who is friends with several St. Mary’s staff members, is very familiar with the Gaels.

                            “I know St. Mary’s very well,” said Mooney.

                            Final score prediction: Richmond 67, St. Mary’s 60


                            No. 11 Old Dominion Monarchs vs. No. 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-2, 121.5), 12:25 p.m. ET at New Orleans


                            Just when it looked like Notre Dame would not make the NCAA tourney, having lost seven of 10 games heading into the final week of February, the Fighting Irish finished strong, winning six consecutive prior to a 2-point loss to West Virginia in the Big East tournament. They are also 8-0 in their last eight games ATS, covering by an average margin of nearly 11 points.

                            Old Dominion was the best team in the CAA but, in the 12-team conference, actually had the third-worst ATS record (13-17). Forward Gerald Lee (14.6 ppg, 4.9 rpg) is the only player that averages more than nine points per game for the defense-oriented Monarchs. They rank fifth in the nation in scoring defense, allowing only 57.1 points per game.

                            The secret to Notre Dame’s recent turnaround is its “burn” offense, where the shot clock is ran for 20 to 25 seconds before shooting. The new offense slows entire games down tremendously, thus, keeping scoring at a premium. After allowing almost 73 points per game in their first 27 contests, the Irish have yielded an average of just over 54 points in their last seven games.

                            Star forward Luke Harangody (22.4 ppg, 9.2 rpg) is a big fan of the new offense. “With [the burn], he says, “I think we’re just very relaxed at all times.”

                            Final score prediction: Notre Dame 64, Old Dominion 54


                            No. 13 Sam Houston State Bearkats vs. No. 3 Baylor Bears (-10.5, 150), 2:55 p.m. ET at New Orleans


                            When Baylor found out at its Ferrell Center that is was heading to New Orleans for the opening round of the tournament, coach Scott Drew notified the crowd, “Road trip. Tweety and Lace promise the city will be waiting for you.”

                            Guards LaceDarius Dunn (19.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg) and Tweety Carter (15.7 ppg, 6.1 apg), both Louisiana natives, have already guided the Bears (25-7) to their most wins in history. Baylor is seeking at least a few more as a legitimate Final Four contender. If the Bears can make it to the Sweet Sixteen, they’ll travel next to Houston - another accessible site for their fans.

                            They first must get by Sam Houston State in the opening round. The Bearkats rank 11th in the country in scoring, averaging nearly 80 points per game.

                            However, they must face a Baylor defense allowing opponents to shoot only 38.3 percent from the floor (9th in nation) and, including forward Ekpe Udoh (13.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.9 blocks), one of the most lethal trios in college basketball.

                            Baylor will look to start the Big Dance on the right foot and impress many of its journeying fans in the process.

                            Final score prediction: Baylor 89, Sam Houston State 69



                            Midwest regional

                            No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks vs. No. 16 Lehigh Mountain Hawks (+26, 146)

                            A No. 16 seed has never beaten a No. 1 seed, and a historic win like that isn’t going to happen for the first time here.

                            Kansas (32-2) is the overwhelming favorite to win the national championship, and its size, speed, depth and skill is way too much for Lehigh.

                            Lehigh (22-10), winner of the Patriot League tournament, faced just one NCAA team all year, losing at Richmond 65-53 in its season opener on Nov. 13.

                            The Mountain Hawks can shoot from the outside, led by freshman C.J. McCollum, last year’s Ohio state high school player of the year. But size down low is limited. Jayhawks 6-11 junior Cole Aldrich and 6-8 sophomore Marcus Morris could have a field day – if they play in the second half.

                            Prediction: Kansas 82, Lehigh 48


                            No. 8 UNLV Runnin’ Rebels vs. No. 9 Northern Iowa Panthers (+1, 113.5)


                            A true contrast of styles. UNLV (25-8) is quick and likes to score. Northern Iowa (28-4) leans on teams before its superior depth puts the game in its favor. The Panthers don’t let teams score – they’re No. 2 in the nation allowing only 54.3 ppg. Whichever team can control the temp will have the edge.

                            UNLV can go as many as 11 deep, and seven players average at least 10 minutes per game. The backcourt is its strength, led by junior Tre’Von Willis (17.3 ppg) and 6-8 sophomore swing Chace Stanback (10.7 ppg, 5.8 rpg).

                            The Rebels will need that depth. UNI senior center Jordan Eglseder (12.0 ppg, 7.3 rpg) goes 7-foot, 280 pounds. Forward Adam Koch (11.8 ppg), the Missouri Valley player of the year, is 6-8, 255. The top two frontcourt reserves each weigh 255.

                            UNI played just one team that got to the NCAA Tournament: The Panthers hammered Siena 82-65 on Dec. 12. UNLV played 10 games, going 5-5.

                            Prediction: Northern Iowa 61, UNLV 58


                            No. 6 Tennessee Volunteers vs. No. 11 San Diego State Aztecs (+3, 125)


                            No single-digit seeded team is more of an enigma than Tennessee (25-8), which beat Kansas and Kentucky but also lost badly to Georgia and Southern Cal. It’s hard to tell which Tennessee team will show up. You’d think the Vols would get up for the big games, but they lost to archrival Kentucky 74-45 in the SEC tournament semifinals.

                            Sophomore 6-7 guard Scotty Hopson (12.5) and 6-9 forward Wayne Chism (12.5 ppg, 7.1 rpg) are the leaders, but both can be streaky.

                            Tennessee feels disrespected by its No. 6 seed, and that could be the motivation it needs to bring out its best for San Diego State.

                            “Since I’ve been here, we’ve been doubted and disrespected, so it’s nothing new to me,” senior Brian Williams told the Associated Press. “It just makes us hungrier as a team and more focused on knowing what we’ve got to do to get to the next round.”

                            San Diego State (25-8) is big and balanced. The Aztecs have four starters 6-7 or taller, and a 6-11, 300-pounder in Brian Carlwell waiting on the bench.

                            Four players average in double figures, led by the 12.8 ppg of 6-7 freshman forward Kawhi Leonard (also 9.9 rpg). San Diego State has never won an NCAA Tournament game.

                            One telling stat: Tennessee is 12-2 in games decided by single digits.

                            Prediction: Tennessee 71, San Diego State 70


                            No. 3 Georgetown Hoyas vs. No. 14 Ohio Bobcats (+13.5, 138)


                            Most of the season, Georgetown was a solid defensive and rebounding squad. Most of the season.

                            Georgetown came to play against the elite teams of the Big East, but at times struggled against the bottom feeders, hence the pedestrian 10-8 conference record.

                            In the Big East tourney final, the Hoyas were outrebounded by West Virginia 40-23, but still only lost 60-58.

                            Still, the Hoyas are big and physical. Greg Monroe, a 6-11 sophomore, averages 16.1 ppg and 9.5 rpg. Guards Chris Wright (14.8 ppg) and Austin Freeman (16.7 ppg) give G’town a solid inside-out game. Depth is a concern, but their first-round opponent probably won’t be able to expose that.

                            After going just 7-9 in the MAC, Ohio (21-14) won two overtime games and came through with the conference tourney title. Here comes Georgetown.

                            While the Bobcats’ two starting frontcourt players, Kenneth van Kempen and Reggie Kelly, average 6-9 and 264 pounds, the team was among the MAC’s worst in rebounding and blocked shots. Against a big and physical Georgetown front line, Ohio will have to bring its ‘A’ game down low.

                            Prediction: Georgetown 74, Ohio 59



                            West regional

                            Brigham Young Cougars vs. Florida Gators (+5, 146) 12:20 p.m.

                            Many bracket pundits believe both of these teams should have been on the outside of the tournament picture so the motivation to prove those naysayers wrong should be high for each side.

                            Florida dropped four of its last five games (2-3 ATS) heading into the Dance. All five starters for the Gators average double figures, but they don’t have much of a bench so foul trouble could be a problem.

                            Florida should be able to expose the interior of BYU as the Cougars really have no one that can match up with center Vernon Macklin. If the Mormon boys are going to win this one, they will have to maintain a fast pace and shoot close to 60 percent.

                            BYU’s starting point guard, Tyler Haws, suffered a broken left orbital in the conference tournament but is expected to play on Thursday.

                            The Cougs have lost seven straight NCAA Tournament games (1-6 ATS).

                            Prediction: Florida 78, BYU 73


                            Kansas State Wildcats vs. North Texas Mean Green Eagles (-16, 147.5) 2:40 p.m.


                            Kansas State head coach Frank Martin believes his team is one of the best in the country and is prepared as it can be for a deep run in the tourney.

                            "We were right there and just couldn't finish it off,” Martin said of the Big 12 championship game. “So we're not going to be any more prepared because of the lessons this season has taught us."

                            The Wildcats will rack up plenty of fouls but also force a lot of turnovers with that aggressive style which allows them to push the ball in transition.

                            The North Texas campus in Denton is only 2.5 hours from Oklahoma City. That being said, the Mean Green doesn’t hold an equivalent fan base to that of a major conference team so there likely won’t be much of a home-court advantage.

                            The Eagles played Texas A&M in a 75-65 game on the road earlier this year so the team clearly has the ability to compete with the Big 12. North Texas is a junior- and senior-laden squad that had four starters average double digits this season.

                            The No. 15 seed is 4-96 against the No. 2 seed since the inception of the NCAA Tournament.

                            Prediction: Kansas State 85, North Texas 73


                            Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Murray State Racers (+3, 140.5) 2:30 p.m.


                            The Murray State Racers out of the Ohio Valley Conference put together a 30-win season but only played one major conference opponent all year. They were competitive in that game, losing to Cal on the road 75-70.

                            Murray State will have some extra motivation in its back pocket in this game, playing for teammate Picasso Simmons, who lost his mother in a car accident on Monday. The reserve guard will be at the game.

                            "His mom was real, real happy that he was getting a chance to go," a team spokesman said. "Our basketball team is a family. We had all the jubilation of [Sunday], and something like this puts it into perspective."

                            Vandy looked disoriented against Mississippi State in the SEC semifinals and is susceptible of a letdown. The Commodores were ousted from the tourney two years ago as the No. 4 seed by a lower-tiered conference opponent in Siena.

                            For the Commodores to win, they have to get production from center A.J. Ogilvy who has disappeared recently. The Racers will be forced to double-team Ogilvy with their tallest player at 6-9 and the big Aussie checking in at 6-11, 250.

                            Prediction: Vanderbilt 72, Murray State 70


                            Butler Bulldogs vs. UTEP Miners (+2.5, 130) 4:45 p.m.


                            Butler enters the Madness with the nation’s longest winning streak at 20 games (9-11 ATS) while UTEP has been just as hot, winning 16 of its last 17 outings (10-7 ATS).

                            These two offenses are night and day in comparison. The Bulldogs like to grind it out in a half-court offense and the Miners are eager to run with anyone. So which offense will get sucked into playing the speed the other wants?

                            The Miners averaged 75.8 ppg during the season but the Bulldogs only gave up 70 or more three times all year, losing all three games.

                            To have success, this disciplined and defensive-minded Butler squad will have to slow down Randy Culpepper (18.0 ppg) and Louisville transfer Derrick Caracter (13.8 ppg, 8.0 rpg)

                            Prediction: Butler 64, UTEP 60


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                            Last edited by Udog; 03-18-2010, 01:09 AM.

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                            • #15
                              NOTE:
                              For the initial posting of trends and indexes, we have provided information available up to the time of posting.
                              Additional updates for today’s games will be posted ASAP.

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