Announcement

**Udog** · 10-12-2010, 10:58 PM

NFL opening line report: Week 6

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been eagerly awaiting Ben Roethlisberger’s return from his suspension all year, but Steelers bettors may not feel the same way when they get a look at Pittsburgh’s odds this week.

The Steelers opened as 12.5-point favorites at home to the Cleveland Browns but that line is already up to -14 and could go higher.

“It’s not like we forgot he’s over his suspension but the money kept on coming in on him,” says Jay Kornegay, Las Vegas Hilton Sportsbook Director. “I can’t see a lot of money coming back on the Browns unless some of the sharps try to middle this thing come Sunday. I do expect Roethlisberger to come back strong as reports say he’s been very focused during his suspension. However, that doesn’t mean they can cover 14 points.”

Chuck Esposito, casino operations manager at Tropicana Las Vegas, figures Roethlisberger is worth about three points on this week’s line.

Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are also coming off a bye, playing their first game since trading Randy Moss to the Vikings. However, oddsmakers don’t see much of a difference between the Pats team that had the superstar wideout in the lineup and the club they’re fielding now.

“New England opened as a 3-point favorite over the Ravens and the betting public quickly took that,” says Esposito. “The Pats are now down to -2.5.”

Kornegay doesn’t figure losing Moss will be much of a factor to Patriots bettors moving forward either.

“The Patriots have been doing it with a bunch of no-names and we’ll see how long that lasts,” Kornegay says. “The rushing offense is still non-existent and that will create problems against tough competition. The Patriots’ defense is the big question mark. They are young and are having problems getting offenses off the field.”

Biggest spread of the week: Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers (-14, 37.5)

We’ve already touched on this one, but Esposito also added this about Roethlisberger’s return:

“The Steelers played extremely well without Ben but did have some trouble scoring. Their defense and running attack really carried them. Having Roethlisberger back will add another dimension to their offense. I suspect the betting public will continue to back them with Ben back in the fold.”

Smallest spread of the week: Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings (-2.5, 45.5)

This line isn’t posted at every shop out there, but Minnesota -2.5 is the number Esposito cited on Monday, though he added it could change quickly depending on the outcome of Week 5’s Monday Nighter between Minnesota and the New York Jets.

Esposito also expects the action on this one to resemble a playoff game, so keep on top of this one for any line moves.

Biggest total of the week: San Diego Chargers at St. Louis Rams (-9, 45)

This total is all about the San Diego Chargers’ No. 1-ranked offense and the fact that the Rams just gave up 44 points to the Detroit Lions in Week 5. San Diego has played over in four of its five games so far this year while piling up 461.8 yards per game.

Esposito expects this total to go up before Sunday.

Lowest total of the week: Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers (-14, 37.5)

Odd situation here with this matchup featuring the biggest spread and the lowest total on the board, but bettors can’t get enough of Pittsburgh’s defense – with or without Ben Roethlisberger. Pittsburgh has played under in three of its four games this year.

“I know Roethlisberger is back but the Steelers bread and butter is defense and running the ball, which both spell a low-scoring game,” says Esposito.

Trickiest lines of the week: Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins at Green Bay Packers

Two for your money here. Neither of these lines are out yet, and for good reason – both matchups have serious starting quarterback questions.

With the Falcons-Eagles, Esposito expects Philadelphia to be set as a 1.5 or 2-point favorite if Kevin Kolb starts and the game to be around a pick ‘em if Mike Vick is taking the snaps.

“That is not necessary how the Nevada bookmakers see the line but more how we feel the betting public will react if Vick is back and getting points at home,” Esposito reasons.

Meanwhile, if Rodgers (concussion) is OK to go, Green Bay will likely check in around -6.5 but if they need to go to backup Matt Flynn that line will be around -3.

Other early odds for Week 6:

Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears (-7, N/A)
Detroit Lions at New York Giants (-10, 44.5)
New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5, 44)
Kansas City Chiefs at Houston Texans (-5, 44)
Oakland Raiders at San Francisco 49ers (-6.5, 40.5)
Indianapolis Colts at Washington Redskins (3, 43.5)

**Udog** · 10-12-2010, 10:59 PM

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 6

Sunday, October 18

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SAN DIEGO (2 - 3) at ST LOUIS (2 - 3) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 22-7 ATS (+14.3 Units) in dome games since 1992.
SAN DIEGO is 37-18 ATS (+17.2 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 108-141 ATS (-47.1 Units) in all games since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 108-141 ATS (-47.1 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 52-75 ATS (-30.5 Units) as an underdog since 1992.

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

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KANSAS CITY (3 - 1) at HOUSTON (3 - 2) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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BALTIMORE (4 - 1) at NEW ENGLAND (3 - 1) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 83-59 ATS (+18.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
BALTIMORE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as a road underdog of 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons.

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

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NEW ORLEANS (3 - 2) at TAMPA BAY (3 - 1) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.

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

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ATLANTA (4 - 1) at PHILADELPHIA (3 - 2) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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DETROIT (1 - 4) at NY GIANTS (3 - 2) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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SEATTLE (2 - 2) at CHICAGO (4 - 1) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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MIAMI (2 - 2) at GREEN BAY (3 - 2) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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CLEVELAND (1 - 4) at PITTSBURGH (3 - 1) - 10/17/2010, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 42-24 ATS (+15.6 Units) in October games since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 48-27 ATS (+18.3 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 7-19 ATS (-13.9 Units) as a favorite of 10 or more points since 1992.

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

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NY JETS (4 - 1) at DENVER (2 - 3) - 10/17/2010, 4:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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OAKLAND (2 - 3) at SAN FRANCISCO (0 - 5) - 10/17/2010, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games in weeks 5 through 9 over the last 3 seasons.

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

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DALLAS (1 - 3) at MINNESOTA (1 - 3) - 10/17/2010, 4:15 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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INDIANAPOLIS (3 - 2) at WASHINGTON (3 - 2) - 10/17/2010, 8:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANAPOLIS is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points over the last 3 seasons.
INDIANAPOLIS is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.

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

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Monday, October 18

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TENNESSEE (3 - 2) at JACKSONVILLE (3 - 2) - 10/18/2010, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 12-25 ATS (-15.5 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 12-25 ATS (-15.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in a home game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points over the last 3 seasons.
JACKSONVILLE is 8-23 ATS (-17.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

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

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**Udog** · 10-12-2010, 11:01 PM

NFL
Short Sheet

Sunday, 10/17/2010

SAN DIEGO at ST LOUIS, 1:00 PM ET
SAN DIEGO: 22-7 ATS in dome games
ST LOUIS: 3-11 ATS off road loss

KANSAS CITY at HOUSTON, 1:00 PM ET
KANSAS CITY: 19-6 ATS Away off loss by 10+ pts
HOUSTON: 6-0 Over off loss by 10+ pts

BALTIMORE at NEW ENGLAND, 1:00 PM ET
BALTIMORE: 8-1 ATS as road dog of 3 pts or less
NEW ENGLAND: 11-1 Under at home off bye week

NEW ORLEANS at TAMPA BAY, 1:00 PM ET
NEW ORLEANS: 7-0 ATS off road loss
TAMPA BAY: 0-6 ATS as home dog of 7 pts or less

ATLANTA at PHILADELPHIA, 1:00 PM ET
ATLANTA: 0-5 ATS at Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA: 11-1 Under if 50+ pts were scored last game

DETROIT at NY GIANTS, 1:00 PM ET
DETROIT: 11-2 Over off win by 21+ pts
NY GIANTS: 1-6 ATS off BB wins by 14+ pts

SEATTLE at CHICAGO, 1:00 PM ET
SEATTLE: 5-16 ATS off bye week
CHICAGO: 4-0 Under on grass

MIAMI at GREEN BAY, 1:00 PM ET
MIAMI: 0-6 ATS off BB home losses
GREEN BAY: 5-1 Under off BB ATS Losses

CLEVELAND at PITTSBURGH, 1:00 PM ET
CLEVELAND: 9-0 Under off non-conf game
PITTSBURGH: 7-19 ATS as double digit favorite

NY JETS at DENVER, 4:05 PM ET
NY JETS: 1-4 ATS at Denver
DENVER: 2-14 ATS off an Over

OAKLAND at SAN FRANCISCO, 4:05 PM ET
OAKLAND: 0-9 ATS after ATS wins in 2 of L3 games
SAN FRANCISCO: 10-1 Over off home loss by 3pts or less

DALLAS at MINNESOTA, 4:15 PM ET
DALLAS: 7-2 Over off non-conf game
MINNESOTA: 5-1 ATS at home vs. Dallas

INDIANAPOLIS at WASHINGTON, 8:20 PM ET NBC
INDIANAPOLIS: 6-0 ATS Away if total is 42.5 to 45
WASHINGTON: 0-6 ATS after gaining 75 or less rushing yards

Monday, 10/18/2010

TENNESSEE at JACKSONVILLE, 8:30 PM ET ESPN
TENNESSEE: 23-8 Over after allowing 300+ passing yds
JACKSONVILLE: 5-14 ATS in home games

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

**Udog** · 10-12-2010, 11:02 PM

NFL

Week 6

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Trend Report
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1:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Atlanta is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games at home
Philadelphia is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 6 games on the road
Kansas City is 5-17 SU in its last 22 games on the road
Houston is 2-5-1 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Houston is 15-8 SU in its last 23 games at home

1:00 PM
BALTIMORE vs. NEW ENGLAND
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games on the road
Baltimore is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
New England is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New England's last 6 games when playing Baltimore

1:00 PM
SEATTLE vs. CHICAGO
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Seattle's last 9 games on the road
Seattle is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road
Chicago is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chicago's last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. PITTSBURGH
Cleveland is 4-8-1 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Pittsburgh
Cleveland is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Pittsburgh is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games when playing Cleveland

1:00 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. TAMPA BAY
New Orleans is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
New Orleans is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Tampa Bay is 6-18 SU in its last 24 games

1:00 PM
DETROIT vs. NY GIANTS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games on the road
Detroit is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Giants are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the NY Giants last 6 games when playing Detroit

1:00 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Diego's last 6 games on the road
San Diego is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
St. Louis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing San Diego
The total has gone OVER in 5 of St. Louis's last 5 games when playing San Diego

1:00 PM
MIAMI vs. GREEN BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing Green Bay
Miami is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Green Bay is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games

4:05 PM
OAKLAND vs. SAN FRANCISCO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games
San Francisco is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home
San Francisco is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

4:05 PM
NY JETS vs. DENVER
NY Jets are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Denver
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Jets last 7 games when playing Denver
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games when playing at home against NY Jets
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Denver's last 10 games

4:15 PM
DALLAS vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Dallas's last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing Dallas

8:20 PM
INDIANAPOLIS vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis's last 7 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Indianapolis's last 12 games
Washington is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Washington's last 18 games at home

Monday, October 18

8:30 PM
TENNESSEE vs. JACKSONVILLE
Tennessee is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games
Tennessee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Jacksonville's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Jacksonville's last 7 games at home

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**Udog** · 10-13-2010, 09:32 PM

NFL
Dunkel

New Orleans at Tampa Bay
The Saints look to take advantage of a Tampa Bay team that is 2-11 ATS in its last 13 home games. New Orleans is the pick (-4 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Saints favored by 8 1/2. Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (-4 1/2). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17

Game 209-210: San Diego at St. Louis (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego 132.020; St. Louis 127.490
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 4 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: San Diego by 8 1/2; 45
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (+8 1/2); Under

Game 211-212: Kansas City at Houston (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 129.555; Houston 135.800
Dunkel Line: Houston by 6 1/2; 48
Vegas Line: Houston by 4 1/2; 44
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-4 1/2); Over

Game 213-214: Baltimore at New England (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore 135.748; New England 135.274
Dunkel Line: Even; 47
Vegas Line: New England by 3; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+3); Over

Game 215-216: New Orleans at Tampa Bay (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 138.306; Tampa Bay 129.649
Dunkel Line: New Orleans by 8 1/2; 41
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 4 1/2; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (-4 1/2); Under

Game 217-218: Atlanta at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 137.183; Philadelphia 136.649
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1; 38
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 3; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (+3); Under

Game 219-220: Detroit at NY Giants (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 123.187; NY Giants 135.354
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 12; 49
Vegas Line: NY Giants by 10; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (-10); Over

Game 221-222: Seattle at Chicago (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 128.532; Chicago 132.267
Dunkel Line: Chicago by 3 1/2; 35
Vegas Line: Chicago by 7; 37
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (+7); Under

Game 223-224: Miami at Green Bay (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 134.357; Green Bay 137.888
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 3 1/2; 48
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 225-226: Cleveland at Pittsburgh (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 124.305; Pittsburgh 142.069
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 17 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 13; 37
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-13); Over

Game 227-228: NY Jets at Denver (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 140.282; Denver 132.904
Dunkel Line: NY Jets by 7 1/2; 37
Vegas Line: NY Jets by 3; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Jets (-3); Under

Game 229-230: Oakland at San Francisco (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 121.493; San Francisco 130.374
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 9; 37
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 6 1/2; 40 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (-6 1/2); Under

Game 231-232: Dallas at Minnesota (4:15 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 135.707; Minnesota 134.562
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 1; 48
Vegas Line: Minnesota by 1 1/2; 44
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+1 1/2); Over

Game 233-234: Indianapolis at Washington (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 136.120; Washington 134.500
Dunkel Line: Indianapolis by 1 1/2; 40
Vegas Line: Indianapolis by 3 1/2; 43
Dunkel Pick: Washington (+3 1/2); Under

MONDAY, OCTOBER 18

Game 235-236: Tennessee at Jacksonville (8:35 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 131.494; Jacksonville 130.187
Dunkel Line: Tennessee by 1 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 3; 45
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (+3); Over

**Udog** · 10-16-2010, 11:10 PM

NFL
Write-Up

NFL Week 6 analysis

Chargers (2-3) @ Rams (2-3)—San Diego’s putrid special teams play, nine giveaways on road has them 0-3 away from Qualcomm, despite outgaining opponents by 192-247-227 yards in those games- they’ve given up four special teams TDs and a safety in three away games. Bolts scored 14 TDs in last four games, so when they don’t self-destruct, they’ve got potent offense, with their two wins by 25-31 points. Rams are 2-1 at home, holding foes to one TD on 23 drives in last two, but those games were both against teams with new coaches, new systems. NFC West home underdogs are 5-0 vs. spread in non-division games. Home team won last five series games, with average total in last seven, 51.4. Chargers lost last two visits here, 57-31/28-24. San Diego is 3-8 vs. spread in last 11 games as a road favorite.

Lions (1-4) @ Giants (3-2)—Interesting to see how improved Lions react after win; since 2001, they’re 7-21-2 vs. spread in game following an infrequent victories. Home team lost last six series games, with Detroit scoring 28-31-28 points in winning last three visits vs. Big Blue here (last loss ’90). Lions have only one loss by more than five points (3-1 as underdog in ’10)- they scored five TDs on 20 drives in last two games, with three TD drives of 80+ yards. Giants allowed only one TD on 26 drives in last two games; they better not look past this to Monday nighter in Dallas next week. Detroit lost last eight pre-bye games (0-7 vs. spread in last seven) losing last three by combined score of 91-16. NFC East faves are 3-5 vs. spread in non-division games, 2-3 at home. Three of last four Detroit games went over total; last three Giant games stayed under the total.

Chiefs (3-1) @ Texans (3-2)—Hard to win in NFL giving up 24+ points; Houston has given up 24+ in all five games this season, losing two times they scored less than 30 points. Chiefs been running ball well, averaging 148.8 yards/game on ground. Home team lost three of last four series games; Chiefs won two of three visits here. KC held Colts without TD for 55:00 last week, losing 19-9 game when they were stopped on downs at Indy 8-yard line on first series. Chiefs are 15-10 as road underdog since 2007 (1-1 in ’10). Texans gave up 61 points in losing last two home games (Dallas/Giants); they’re 2-5-2 in last nine games as home favorite. Houston is 6-2 vs. spread in pre-bye games, but were underdog in all eight. AFC West underdogs are 4-6 vs. spread in non-division games; AFC South favorites are 7-4. Three of four KC games stayed under the total.

Ravens (4-1) @ Patriots (3-1)—Baltimore waxed Pats 33-14 in playoffs LY, their first win in six tries vs old coach Belichick (led Browns before they bolted for Maryland, became Ravens); they lost tough 27-21 game in Week 4 LY. New England won last seven post-bye games (5-2 vs. spread as favorite) scoring 32.2 ppg in last six post-bye tilts. Pats are 7-4 in last 11 games as home favorite, beating Cincy by 14, Bills by 8 at home this year. Ravens won three games in row, but scored only 37 points (4 TDs on 34 drives) in three road games, with dog covering all three of those. Baltimore has only three takeaways (-6) in five games. This is Pats’ first game without Moss; Branch was re-acquired to fill the gap, but he’s no Moss. Interesting to see how Welker fares without constant double-team on other side of field. All four Patriot games went over total.

Saints (3-2) @ Buccaneers (3-1)—Saints are 5-3 in Tampa since becoming divisional rival with Bucs; four of last five series games were decided by 4 or less points. NO turned ball over nine times in last three games, have yet to win game by more than five points; they’re 0-9-1 vs. spread in last 10 regular season games, and are scoring 19 ppg less than they were at this time LY. Resourceful Bucs finding ways to win, picking off two Palmer passes in last 2:30 last week to steal game in Cincinnati. Tampa has nine INTs in four games, with 2+ in every game; their +5 turnover ratio is 5th in NFL. Saints have been outrushed 183-135 in two road games; after going 17-9 as road favorite from 2001-09, they’re 0-2 so far this year. Bucs have only four TDs in 12 visits to red zone, are -6 in sacks (4-10). Home underdogs in divisional games are 10-2-1 vs. spread so far this season.

Falcons (4-1) @ Eagles (3-2)—Will Michael Vick be healthy enough to play against his old team? It says here if he can walk, he’ll play. Philly is 3-0 on road, 0-2 at home, losing to Packers/Redskins; they’ve won seven of last eight vs Atlanta, winning last three meetings by average score of 28-13. Atlanta lost last six visits here, with last win in Philly coming way back in 1988. Eagles scored 27+ points in their three wins, 20-12 in losses (three TDs on 22 drives). Falcons won last four games since OT loss in opener at Pittsburgh; they’ve run ball for average of 171.5 yards/game in last four weeks, but have only one TD in seven visits to red zone in last two games. Philly is 14-20 vs spread in last 34 games where spread was 3 or less; Atlanta is 15-7-1 in their last 23 such games. NFC South teams are 3-8-2 vs. spread in non-divisional games; NFC East teams are 7-8.

Seahawks (2-2) @ Bears (4-1)—Seattle is just 4-17 vs. spread in game after its last 21 byes, 1-10 in last 11; they’re 0-2 on road this year, losing 31-14 in Denver (+3), 20-3 in St Louis (-2), their first loss in last 11 games against Rams. Bear offense has total of 80 passing yards in last two games, averaging 1.4/1.4 ypp; their QB’s have already been sacked 21 times this year (-12). Cutler expected back after getting KOd in Swamp at halftime of Week 4. Chicago is 2-0 at home, beating Lions 19-14, Packers 20-17, pair of nailbiters- they’re 8-6 in last 14 games as favorite. Bears won three of last four series games, winning 25-19 in last meeting at Seattle LY. Four of five Chicago games this season stayed under total. Key thing here is how well Cutler stays in pocket after getting kicked around by Giants like he was a freakin’ piñata two weeks ago.

Dolphins (2-2) @ Packers (3-2)—Pack QB Rodgers had concussion in OT last week, not expected to go here, giving untested backup Flynn (unspectacular at LSU) his first NFL start. Green Bay scored 27+ points in its three wins, 17-13 in losses- they’ve been minus-1 in turnovers in each of last three games, getting outscored 38-17 in second half of games they led at half. Miami is 11-3 vs spread as road underdog since start of ’08 season; they’re 2-0 on road, 0-2 at home, winning 15-10 at Buffalo, 14-10 at Minnesota. Dolphins are 3-9 after last 12 byes, 3-6 vs. spread as post-bye dog, scoring 17 or less points in six of last eight post-bye tilts. Green Bay won three of last four series games after losing first eight; Miami lost last two visits here, 23-18/24-10- their last Lambeau win was 25 years ago. NFC North teams are 6-4-1 vs. spread in their non-divisional games.

Browns (1-4) @ Steelers (3-1)—Roethlisberger returns under center for Pittsburgh team starting its fourth different QB in first five games of season. Cleveland’s 13-6 upset (+10.5) win over Steelers last December was just their second in last 20 series games; Browns lost last six visits here, with five of six losses by 11+ points. Pitt is just 5-9 vs. spread as post-bye favorite, but did win 38-10/28-10 coming off byes last two years. If you're not reading this on ***************.com, somebody is pirating my stuff. Steelers allowed only four TDs on 46 opponent drives in first four games; they’re +7 in turnovers, with 12 takeaways, allowing only 62.3 rushing yards/game. Pitt is just 2-6-1 in last nine games as home favorite. Cleveland is 6-3-1 in last 10 games as road dog; three of their four ’10 losses are by 7 or less points. Only defensive TD by Falcons made last week’s loss 20-10. Underdogs are 20-4-1 vs spread in divisional games so far this year, with home favorites just 2-10-1 so far.

Jets (4-1) @ Broncos (2-3)—Long road trip (third road game in last four weeks) on short week for Jets after holding off Favre’s Vikings Monday night; they’re 2-6 in last eight pre-bye games, allowing 27.2 ppg in last six, but who is playing better right now than Gang Green? They scored 28+ points in winning each of last four games, have been plus in turnovers all five games this year (+11). Jets have lost five of last six visits here, with all five losses by 7+ points. Denver scored 31-26 points in its two wins (six TDs, five FGs on 22 drives), 17 or less in its three losses (five TDs, four FGs on 30 drives); since 2002, Broncos are 6-4 as home underdog. Orton has 1,491 PY in last four games, but Denver is running ball for just 51.8 ypg so far this season. AFC West underdogs are 4-6 vs. spread in non-divisional games this season. Last four Jet games, four of five Denver games went over the total.

Raiders (2-3) @ 49ers (0-5)—Oakland ended 7-year drought vs. Chargers last week; if not for Janikowski miss on short FG at gun in Arizona, Raiders would be 3-2 Cinderella story, but still, they’ve had 11+ penalties in three of last four games and allowed 441-506 total yards in last two games. 49ers won three of last four games in local rivalry; Oakland is 4-2 in six visits here; they’re 1-5 vs. spread in game following their last six wins. 0-5 Niners have three losses by 3 or less points in last four games; they’re favored for fourth time in six games (6-4-1 as home fave since ’08). Hard-running Michael Bush helping Raider run game (134 ypg) in red zone (five TDs, FG on last six trips). Two of last three series games went OT; average total in last four series games is 54.3. Oakland is 10-8 as road dog since ’08. Over is 4-1 in Raider games, 3-1 in last four 49er contests.

Cowboys (1-3) @ Vikings (1-3)—Loser in desperate straits in battle of disappointing teams. Vikings won six of last seven series games, routing Dallas 34-3 here in playoffs LY; they’re 7-3 as home favorite with Favre at QB, but in four games this year, have yet to average more than 6.3 ypa (Dallas averaged 7.3/9.5/7.1 in last three games). Cowboys have only had takeaway in one game this year (+3 at Houston, -7 in other three games); opponents are just 12-43 on 3rd down against them, but turnovers create short fields, and Pokes haven’t started drive in enemy territory in last three games (foes have five). Hard to judge Favre/Moss in rain last week, but Vikes coughed ball up 10 times in last three games (-5), a recipe for failure. Dallas covered last three regular season games as a dog. Three of four Viking games this season stayed under the total.

Colts (3-2) @ Redskins (3-2)—Washington allowed 7-12-13 points in its three wins, 30-30 in losses; two of their three home games went OT, with underdog 2-0-1 vs. spread in those games. Skins had been outscored 52-13 in second half of games this year before rallying from down 13-3 in 4th quarter last week to steal win from Packers. Indy allowed 257-174 rushing yards in its two losses, average of 93.3 in its wins- offense didn’t score TD vs. Chiefs last week until final 5:00. Home team won six of last seven games in what used to be regional rivalry; Colts lost last five visits here last here in ’02), with last win by Johnny U’s ’67 Baltimore Colt team that was unbeaten going to season’s final week. Indy is 5-1 in last six pre-bye games, with four of five wins by 18+ points. AFC South teams are 6-1 vs. spread in non-divisional road games; NFC East home teams are 3-5.

Titans (3-2) @ Jaguars (3-2)—Tennessee won five of last seven series games; they’re 5-3 in last eight visits here. Titans beat Jags last six times they held them to 17 or less points, lost last five times Jags score more than 17. Jax scored 31-36 points in last two games, running ball for 390 yards, averaging 7.4/7.5 ypa- they won at Buffalo last week despite -3 turnover ratio. Rare in NFL to win on road with that bad a ratio, even against a sorry team. Titans have played better on orad, beating Giants/Dallas while losing last two home games. Field position has been key for Tennessee; in their wins, they’ve been +11/+15/+15; in losses, -11/-14, with +7 turnover ratio in wins, -7 in losses. Jags were held to 3-13 points in losses; scored 24+ in wins- they’re 11-6 as home underdog since 2004. Again, underdogs off to amazing 20-4-1 start vs. spread in divisional games this season, 10-2-1 at home.

**Udog** · 10-16-2010, 11:13 PM

NFL

Sunday, October 10

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What Bettors Need to Know
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Indianapolis Colts at Washington Redskins (+3, 44)

The surprising Redskins will look to remain atop the NFC East when they host Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night.

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
The Washington Redskins managed to slow one of the league's best offenses last week. They will be hard pressed to do it again.

Washington (3-2) has faced a slew of potent offenses this season in the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers, which is among the reasons the Redskins have surrendered more yards than any team in the league.

Most troubling for Washington is a pass defense that ranks 30th out of 32 teams, an ominous sign with Manning coming to town.

Still, the Colts respect the one stat Washington’s defense excels at – points allowed. The Skins are giving up an average of just 18 points per game, good for the ninth best mark in the NFL.

"I'm pretty sure any coach would tell you that points are all that matters," Manning Redskin beat reporters. "It's the same thing on the offensive side.

"If you're moving the ball and have a ton of yards, but not scoring touchdowns in the red zone, it doesn't really matter. So, that's the bottom line. They're not giving up points, keeping teams out of the end zone, holding some good offenses, too. They held Green Bay and held Philadelphia to 12. That's good defense."

GIDDY UP
The Colts (3-2) are the league's second-highest scoring team with 136 points, although they struggled in a 19-9 home victory over the Kansas City Chiefs last week.

Manning failed to throw a touchdown pass for the first time this season and finished 26 of 44 for 244 yards and an interception.

Despite playing with a running game that has been abysmal, Manning already has a pair of 300-yard games and a 400-yard performance this season.

A lack of offensive balance has forced Manning to attempt over 40 passes in each of the last three games. He is third in the league with 1,609 yards and has thrown 11 touchdown passes against only two interceptions.

POINT OF ATTACK
Indianapolis’ defense, which had been mauled in road losses to AFC South rivals Houston and the Jacksonville Jaguars, held the Chiefs to three field goals and 261 total yards.

The biggest problem for Indy has been an inability to stop the run, which the Redskins will likely try to exploit to keep Manning off the field.

Running back Ryan Torain struggled in his first start in place of an injured Clinton Portis, rushing for just 40 yards on 16 carries in last week’s 16-13 overtime victory over Green Bay.

Donovan McNabb threw for 357 yards on 26-of-49 passing last week, including a 48-yard scoring strike to Anthony Armstrong in the fourth quarter to get the Redskins back in the game. Santana Moss added seven receptions for 188 yards.

In his first season with Washington, McNabb’s numbers have not been great. He’s completing just 56.5 percent of his passes and has thrown four touchdown passes and three interceptions. But he supplies a big-play threat that has been lacking with the Redskins in recent seasons.

INJURY REPORT
The Colts hope to have starting running back Joseph Addai back on the field Sunday night. The versatile back left last week’s game with a shoulder injury after Chiefs lineman Glenn Dorsey pancaked him into the turf.

"It's just a little sore," Addai told the Indianapolis Star on Thursday. "I practiced (Wednesday) and felt good. Sunday's a long time from now, so I should be good."

Washington is expected to have both of its starting offensive tackles in the lineup against the Colts. Rookie left tackle Trent Williams missed two games because of a knee injury while right tackle Jamaal Brown didn’t play in the second half last week against Green Bay due to a pain in his knee.

Both players practiced and are expected to go, which is great news for a Washington offensive line that will have its hands full against Colts defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.

"It's nerve-wracking," Williams told the Washington Examiner about trying to block Freeney. "You definitely think about it before you go to sleep at night. He's that dominant of a player. What I've seen so far, I haven't seen anybody like him."

WEATHER REPORT
There’s a zero percent chance of rain and the game-time temperature should be in the mid 60s. The wind isn’t expected to be a major factor either.

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**Udog** · 10-16-2010, 11:14 PM

NFL

Sunday, October 10

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NFL Total Bias: Week 6 over/under picks
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Everybody knows Brett Favre plays football on Sundays.

Battered, bruised, broken – he straps up and goes out to take the snaps. That’s who he is; that’s what he does. Everybody knows that.

So that’s why it was so strange to hear Favre talking about even the possibility of missing some games in a presser this week. Favre says tendinitis in his throwing elbow is really getting to him and that he’s having trouble with the deep throws he needs to make – especially now that Randy Moss is a Viking.

Tendinitis? He’s going to let tendinitis end his consecutive game streak?

Now, I’m not saying by any means that Favre isn’t banged up or downplaying how debilitating tendinitis can be. But this is Brett Lorenzo Favre we’re talking about here and it seems like interesting timing what with all those naughty sexting allegations swirling around. Again, no finger pointing, but if I were in hot water after sending some photos of me in my birthday suit to a sultry sideline vixen with a wife and kids at home, I wouldn’t mind taking a day off either.

But that’s beside the point.

To see Favre, the iron man of the league, even considering sitting down raises a larger issue: what’s going on with NFL quarterback injuries this season? Favre, Vick, Cutler, Stafford, Rodgers, Delhomme – they’ve all been banged up, and that’s just to name a handful of the quarterbacks who have been dropping like the rain of post-play celebration flags.

A few years ago, it was odd if a team had more than one ball-carrying bellcow in the backfield. Feature running backs were in there for third downs, passing situations, short-yardage plays – basically whatever you needed them to do. Now of course, it’s pretty rare that a team can get by with just one back that carries the load.

It’s getting to that point with quarterbacks in the NFL now too, especially with the weaker teams in the league. Backup quarterbacks are going to become more and more important for teams moving forward because no matter how the NFL tries to protect its passers, defenses are just getting stronger and faster. Plus, with the rash of gimmicky plays and formations like the wildcat, guys like Tim Tebow are going to be in high demand.

Whether Favre’s consecutive games played streak comes to an end this year, this week, or never, the days of one guy lining up under center all season long are on their last legs.

Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots (44.5)

Sure, the New England Patriots, who are the only team that’s played over the total in all of their games this season, traded away their best big-play threat, Randy Moss.

They’ve also just had two weeks off to figure out how to attack Baltimore’s nasty defense.

Bill Belichick is 8-2 coming off the bye with the Patriots, but he isn’t a miracle worker. If he’s going to beat the Ravens, he’s going to have to do it with Tom Brady and the offense, not the ragtag defensive group he has this year.

Pick: Over

San Diego Chargers at St. Louis Rams (45)

I feel like I’m missing something here. We have the league’s best offense led by Philip Rivers lining up against a St. Louis Rams team that just gave up 44 points to the Detroit Lions.

And it’s a 45-point total?

I know the Rams did look OK in wins over Washington and Seattle earlier this year, but they haven’t seen anything like San Diego’s offense.

Pick: Over

New York Jets at Denver Broncos (41)

I still have no idea how Mike Shanahan is getting this kind of production out of Kyle Orton, but after five weeks, I buy it. It’s not like he was ever a terrible quarterback - despite what the Rex-loving Chicago media would tell you years ago – and he’s really making good use of the weapons he has.

Case in point: perennial cast-off Brandon Lloyd is leading the league with 589 receiving yards and he may not even have to deal with Darrelle Revis (hamstring), who recently said he’s perfectly fine with the Jets resting him this week before their bye.

Meanwhile, the Jets are averaging 31.5 points during their four-game winning streak.

Pick: Over

Last week: 2-1
Season record: 7-9

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**Udog** · 10-17-2010, 08:19 AM

NFL

Sunday, October 17

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Tips and Trends
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Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots [CBS | 1:00 PM ET]

RAVENS: With a win today in New England, Baltimore can establish themselves as the best team in football. As it stands now, the Ravens are 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS this season. Baltimore has already played 3 road games this year, going 2-1 both SU and ATS this year. The Ravens match up well with the Patriots passing attack, as they only allow 156 YPG through the air. The Ravens defense is going to have to be superb today to win, especially with the Patriots coming in off a bye week. Baltimore has a top 5 ranked defense both in YPG and PPG. The Ravens are allowing 258 YPG and 14.4 PPG respectively this season. The Ravens scored 31 PTS in their last game against Denver, hopefully a sign of things to come. This Baltimore offense has underperformed this season, as they have talented gamebreakers at nearly every skill position. QB Joe Flacco has struggled some this season, completing only 57% of his passes and having more INT's than TD's this year. RB Ray Rice is the key to this offense, as he has duel threat ability. The Ravens are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing more than 250 yards passing in their previous game. Baltimore is 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games in October. The Ravens are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games on fieldturf.

Ravens are 7-2 ATS last 9 games following a bye week.
Under is 10-4-1 last 15 games against the AFC.

Key Injuries - S Ed Reed (hip) is out.

Projected Score: 24 (SIDE of the Day)

PATRIOTS: (-3, O/U 44.5) New England is facing the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last year in humiliating fashion. New England has plenty of revenge, and plenty to prove today. Life without WR Randy Moss begins today, so the Patriots are likely to be very motivated to prove their worth today. New England is averaging 32.8 PPG this season, the only team in the NFL averaging more than 30 PPG. QB Tom Brady has thrown for 911 YDS this season, along with 9 TD's. Brady is the leader of this offense, and he has a QB Rating of 109.0 this year. Brady has several passing targets to throw too this season, including the emerging TE Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez has 18 receptions for 240 YDS this season, and is expected to play a bigger role with Moss out of the picture. The Patriots are 23-7-1 ATS in their last 31 games in October. New England is going to have to improve drastically if they are going to contend for yet another Super Bowl. The Patriots are allowing 24 PPG and 385 YPG this season, both stats amongst the worst in the NFL. New England is 24-11-1 ATS in their last 36 games following a SU win of more than 14 points. The Patriots are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on Sunday following a Monday night game.

Patriots are 1-5 ATS last 6 home games against a team with a winning road record.
Over is 9-4-1 last 14 games as a home favorite.

Key Injuries - RB Fred Taylor (toe) is questionable.

Projected Score: 20

Indianapolis Colts at Washington Redskins [NBC | 8:20 PM ET]

COLTS: (-3, O/U 43.5) Whenever you play Indianapolis, you must be ready to deal with QB Peyton Manning and his passing attack. This year is no exception, as Manning is tied for the NFL in passing TD's and 3rd in passing YPG. Manning has 11 TD's and has thrown for more than 1,600 YDS. Manning's main target has been WR Reggie Wayne, who has 531 YDS receiving, 2nd most in the NFL. Wayne isn't the only receiving threat, as there are numerous others including TE Dallas Clark. Despite an elite passing attack, Indianapolis has one of the worst rushing offenses in the NFL. The Colts are averaging 79.8 rushing YPG this season, 4st worst in the NFL. Defensively, the Colts will have to play better on the road as they've allowed 2 of their 3 opponents to score more than 30 PTS. Indianapolis has struggled playing in Washington, as they haven't won SU in their past 5 games playing in Washington D.C., dating back to 1969. The Colts are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 road games against a team with a winning home record. Indianapolis is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games in October. The Colts are 12-5-1 ATS in their last 18 games following a SU win.

Colts are 7-2 ATS last 9 games as a road favorite.
Over is 5-2 last 7 games in October.

Key Injuries - WR Austin Collie (foot) is questionable.

Projected Score: 27 (OVER-Total of the Day)

REDSKINS: Washington is at the top of the competitive NFC East division standings with an overall record of 3-2 both SU and ATS this year. The Redskins have had some improbable wins this season, thanks to twice as many takeaways than giveaways. This Redskins team has a winning record despite have the worst defense in the NFL so far this season. Washington is allowing opponents to average 410 YPG, one of only 2 teams allowing more than 400 YPG. Thanks to their takeaways, Washington is allowing 18.4 PPG, 9th best in the NFL. The Redskins have played a brutal schedule this year, as they will be playing their 5th game this season as the listed underdog. QB Donovan McNabb has done a great job leading this Redskins team, as they finally have the leader they've desperately needed. McNabb has thrown for more than 1,300 YDS this season, including 4 TD's. Washington is averaging 249 YPG through the air, 7th best in the NFL. The Redskins are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS win. Washington is 5-12 ATS in their last 17 home games.

Redskins are 7-15 ATS last 22 home games against a team with a winning road record.
Under is 13-5 last 18 home games.

Key Injuries - DT Albert Haynesworth (personal) is questionable.

Projected Score: 24

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**Udog** · 10-18-2010, 10:16 AM

NFL

Monday, October 18

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What Bettors Need to Know
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Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars (+3, 45)

CURRENT ODDS

Oddsmakers are reluctant to move on or off the key number (3) in the NFL because favorites win by exactly a field goal nearly 10-percent of the time. The books are especially careful on primetime games due to the heavy volume of action and prefer to adjust the moneyline, instead of the actual pointspread.

This is evident in this game as some sportsbooks currently have Tennessee -2½ -120, while others have the Titans -3 +105.

The over/under line opened at 44.5 and has since gone up to 45. The public is split on the total, with only 53 percent favoring the over, according to the *********** consensus, while 68 percent of the public is backing the Titans.

INJURY REPORT

Going into their first division game of the season, the Titans are healthier than they have in a while. Wide receiver Justin Gage (hamstring) and punter Brett Kern (hamstring) were the only members of the active roster that didn’t practice on Friday.

Running back Chris Johnson (sore thigh), defensive tackle Tony Brown (knee) and receiver Damian Williams (illness) all returned to practice after sitting out Thursday.

”We’re getting there,” coach Jeff Fisher said. “Last week was a little shaky, but I think yesterday helped, and just the fact that the injuries we have had have been somewhat minor in nature.”

Things continue to look up for cornerback Jason McCourty (forearm), who’s been out since undergoing surgery following the third game of the season. He practiced for a second straight day on Friday.

”He’s been cleared to practice, but he’s not been permitted to have any contact yet,” Fisher said. “So he’s close.”

Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew’s right wrist and hand were taped and wrapped during the week and he skipped practice to give his hand some extra healing time, but he is probable for Monday night.

”It’s a swollen hand,” Jones-Drew said. “We’re just trying to get the swelling down. That's pretty much it, nothing serious. There’s no structural damage.”

The Jaguars’ Derek Cox missed Friday’s practice with a hamstring injury just a few days after being earning a starting cornerback job for Monday night’s game. Fullback Brock Bolen (groin), linebacker Jacob Cutrera (calf), and guard Justin Smiley (foot) also missed practice on Friday.

Linebacker Justin Durant and defensive end Aaron Kampman both participated fully after missing Thursday’s practice.

WHO YOU CALLIN' DIRTY?

Josh McDaniels thinks so. Denver’s head coach blasted the Titans for dirty play after his team won in Tennessee two weeks ago. The media made a big deal about it, but when the Jacksonville players were asked about it, they did not seem to agree with McDaniels.

”They’re one of those teams that play to and through the whistle,” Jaguars safety Gerald Alexander said. “So guys can take that as being dirty or being a cheap-shot artist or something like that. They play hard. Some teams may not be able to match that intensity, hence they say they play dirty.”

But Tennessee is still the third most penalized team in the NFL behind the Lions and Raiders. The Titans have been flagged for 41 penalties in their five games so far. Eight penalties per game is not a good statistic to own.

“We play aggressive,” Fisher told the press. “We don’t play cheap.”

LONG DIVISION

Tennessee is only one of three teams (Broncos and Giants the other two) that have yet to play a divisional game this season. We’re already in Week 6 so the fact the Titans haven’t played one yet is somewhat unusual.

The other whacky thing: the Titans will not play another divisional game until Nov. 28. That will begin a stretch of five divisional games over the last six weeks of the regular season.

“Yeah, it’s a little unusual,” Fisher said. “Certainly, this is our first division game, and I don’t have to tell you how the division’s stacked up right now. It takes on a significant importance. I think it’s going to be a great ballgame.”

FANS IN THE STANDS

Jacksonville has had trouble getting people to attend its games. The Jaguars have been blacked out numerous times in the past because they failed to sellout their stadium.

And there was concern that this game would not be shown locally in Jacksonville for that very reason, but enough tickets have been sold so at least the Jaguars can escape embarrassment this time.

According to Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew, the community is fired up about this game with the Titans.

“That is going to be the storyline for this game besides all the little individual things,” Jones-Drew said. “This is a very big game. It is going to be a playoff atmosphere. Everyone down here is real amped up for it.”

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**Udog** · 10-18-2010, 10:17 AM

NFL

Monday, October 18

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Tips and Trends
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Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars [ESPN | 8:35 PM ET]

TITANS: (-3, O/U 45) Tennessee comes to town with one of the most explosive offenses in football. The Titans are averaging 26.4 PPG, 5th best in the NFL. QB Vince Young and RB Chris Johnson are surely licking their chops, as they face one of the worst defenses in the NFL in a primetime game. Tennessee is 3-2 both SU and ATS this season. Tennessee has played their best football on the road this year, winning both games SU as the listed underdog. In fact, Tennessee has won 5 of their past 6 games SU on the road. RB Johnson is 2nd in the NFL with 485 rushing YDS this season, and is excited to be playing on MNF. Johnson rushed for 228 YDS the last time he faced the Jaguars, so confidence will likely not be an issue tonight. Defensively, the Titans have allowed 26 and 27 PTS in their past 2 games. Tennessee will have to play far better defensively if they are going to win on the road in division play. The Titans are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road games against a team with a winning home record. Tennessee is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games against the AFC South. The Titans are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a road favorite.

Titans are 1-10 ATS against a team with a winning record.
The Under is 5-2 in their last 7 games as a road favorite.

Key injuries - RB Chris Johnson (thigh) is probable.

Projected Score: 24

JAGUARS: Jacksonville had had a roller coaster season thus far, yet they still find themselves tied for 1st in the AFC South. Jacksonville is 3-2 both SU and ATS this season. Tonight will be the 3rd home game of the season for the Jaguars, as they are 1-1 both SU and ATS thus far. Tonight will mark the 4th consecutive game that Jacksonville is the listed underdog. The Jaguars have been an offensive juggernaut of late, scoring 67 PTS in their past 2 games. If the Jaguars can score 30 PTS or more tonight it will mark the 1st time in franchise history that they've scored at least 30 PTS in 3 straight games. Jacksonville is expecting QB David Garrard to keep up his hot hand, as he's thrown 5 TD's in his past two games as well as 33 of his last 42 attempts. RB Maurice Jones-Drew is 8th in the NFL in rushing, and he's expected to have a big game tonight. The Jaguars have been terrible on defense this year, allowing 27.4 PPG, 3rd worst in the NFL. The Jaguars are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games as a home underdog up to a field goal. The Jaguars are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against the AFC South. Jacksonville is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 Monday games.

Jaguars are 5-14 ATS last 19 home games.
The Under is 4-0 in the Jaguars last 4 Monday games.

Key Injuries - S Sean Considine (hamstring) is probable.

Projected Score: 27 (SIDE of the Day)

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Announcement

NFL Trends and Indexes - Week 6 (10/17 - 10/18)

NFL Trends and Indexes - Week 6 (10/17 - 10/18)

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