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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:24 AM

Tuesday’s betting tips: Spurs take road slump to Miami

Who’s hot

NBA: Cleveland is 10-4 against the spread in its last 14 overall.

NBA: The over is 10-2-1 in Miami’s last 13 home games.

NHL: Ottawa has won eight of its last nine overall.

NCAAB: Michigan is 22-8 against the number in its last 30.

NCAAB: FSU is 12-5-1 against the spread in its last 18 home games.

Who’s not

NBA: San Antonio is 1-11 against the spread in its last 12 road games.

NBA: Milwaukee is 6-16-1 against the number in its last 23 meetings with Denver.

NHL: Minnesota is 3-13 in its last 16 overall and winless in its last nine road games.

NCAAB: Georgetown is 2-10 against the spread in its last 12 Big East games.

NCAAB: Kentucky is 3-13-1 against the number this season.

Key stat

34.7 – The Arkansas Razorbacks are shooting just 34.7 percent in three consecutive road losses. They visit Kentucky on Tuesday. The Wildcats hold their opposition to just 35.6 percent shooting from the field, ranking No. 2 in the nation.

Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

Mikko Koivu, Minnesota Wild – The Wild are expected to be without their captain for at least a month as he recovers from a left shoulder injury. The All-Star suffered the injury following a check from St. Louis Blues forward Vladimir Sobotka during the first period of Saturday's game. Koivu leads the Wild in scoring with nine goals and 24 assists on the season. Minnesota visits the Flyers as a +170-underdog Tuesday.

Game of the day

Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Wolverines (2, 133)

Notable quotable

"The Ravens, they’re the best team we’ve played all year. They present a ton of challenges in all three phases of the game. When you watch them, like you watched them (Sunday), they’re physical, they’re tough, they can cover, they have some of the best players in the history of the NFL at their positions like (Terrell) Suggs, Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Haloti Ngata." – Patriots quarterback Tom Brady on Sunday’s matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. New England is set as a 7.5-point favorite.

Notes and tips

With the return of Tyrus Thomas to the Charlotte Bobcats’ frontcourt, coach Paul Silas has put the pedal down with a speedier starting lineup. Rookie Kemba Walker is teaming in the backcourt with D.J. Augustin, dropping big-body Boris Diaw to the bench. The new guard combo is giving the Bobcats some pop on offense. Walker and Augustin have combined for 77 points the last two games. Charlotte is a 12-point underdog at Orlando on Tuesday.

The Toronto Maple Leafs with give goaltender James Reimer his first start in two weeks Tuesday against the Ottawa Senators. Reimer, who suffered a concussion in his sixth game of the season, has had a hard time getting into the lineup since being cleared to play. Reimer is 3-0-1 in his last four starts against the Senators and the Leafs are set as -115 favorites.

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:26 AM

Armadillo: Tuesday's six-pack

Some baseball knowledge to warm up a cold winter night............most home runs allowed last season:
29-- Joe Saunders, D-Backs-- Arizona didn't ask him back for '12.

29-- Max Scherzer, Tigers-- Wow. Detroit has a pretty big ballpark.

31-- Brett Myers, Astros-- Best pitcher on a bad ballclub

31-- AJ Burnett, Bronx-- America's finest #5 starter.

35-- Colby Lewis, Texas-- Helped Rangers win two AL titles.

46-- Bronson Arroyo, Reds-- Bad ballpark for a fly ball pitcher.

***************

Armadillo: Tuesday's List of 13: Random thoughts on a winter day.....

13) They had a big weekend of high school basketball games this weekend at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield; the four winners Monday were from Jersey City, Los Angeles, and two teams from Las Vegas. Got to know-- who's footing the bill to fly teams east from Vegas/LA all the way to Springfield?

12) Kid named Reinhardt from Mater Dei in LA is going to UNLV; he hit 9-14 from behind the arc Monday, scored 35 points. Superior shooter.

11) Fascinating/creepy article in the Kansas City paper about the strange goings on around the Chiefs' franchise; if you root for the Chiefs, you're not going to like it. Makes you appreciate the job you have, or at least the good bosses you've had.

10) Mike Martz announced his retirement from coaching, which probably means that no one would give him a job he wanted, but anyway, I think he'd be fascinating on network TV. We need more ex-coaches on TV.

9) Cowboy fans will be thrilled to know that Tony Romo is playing in a pro-am golf tournament with Eldrick Woods at Pebble Beach Feb 9-12. I don't think Eli Manning or Michael Vick or Tom Brady will be doing lot of golfing this winter.

8) I've absolutely killed the A's this offseason, but they made a smart move Monday, trading Moscoso/Outman, two marginal pitchers, for the outfielder Seth Smith, who is a decent hitter, certainly better than most of the suspects currently on their depleted big league roster.

7) Louisville jumped out to an 18-2 lead at Marquette Monday afternoon, but still lost 74-63. Cardinals need to get healthier, or else.......

6) Every time they call an illegal defense in the NBA, my blood boils a little bit; Just play ball, let teams play any defense they want. Give teams with inferior talent a chance. Is that too much to ask? Its bad enough all the best players want to play in the glamorous cities, then the rules don't allow the lesser teams to compete. Its bad for the league.

5) College football coaches are nomads, man; Doug Nussmeier got hired by Alabama as its new offensive coordinator; he spent last three years up at Washington. He played five years as a backup QB in the NFL and is considered a surprisingly good recruiter.

Along those same lines, the rumor mill has former Miami coach Randy Shannon heading to West Virginia as their new defensive coordinator.

4) Early stats for the conference championship games this weekend; Pats are 4-1 in conference title games under Belichick; over last nine years, the favorite is 11-7 against the spread in this round.

3) This is the fourth time in five years the NFC's #1 seed lost its opening playoff game; before that, they'd won that first game 17 years in a row.

2) As someone who minored in History in college, I appreciate an interest in American history and the part in it that Martin Luther King played, but next month, when its Presidents' Day, I'd like to see the same level of interest in Abraham Lincoln/George Washington and their contributions to our country's history. I'm pretty sure they were important, too.

1) Quick way to feel fairly old/stupid is to spend 90 minutes in the Apple Store, getting your new phone set up by someone less than half your age, and a lot smarter. Bought a new IPhone Monday afternoon, so if any of you have any tips or apps I might like, feel free to pass them along.

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:27 AM

NFL opening line report: Early action shifting odds

NFC Championship Game, New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers, 6:30 p.m. ET Sunday

Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook opening line: Pick, 44.5; Moved to 49ers -1.5

The Sports Club recommended line: 49ers -1, 45

Betonline.com line opening line: 49ers -1, 44.5; Moved to 49ers -2.5

MGM Mirage opening line: 49ers -2.5, 44.5

BetCris.com line as of late Sunday: 49ers -3 (even), 43.5

The 49ers money that poured in after books hung San Fran -1 or pick-‘em in the NFC Championship Game might be misleading sharp action, one industry leader told ***********.

“We think most of the money is going to come in on the Giants and these are false moves,” said Jay Kornegay, director of the Las Vegas Hilton SuperBook. “I think they’re just trying to drive the line up.”

Kornegay also expects the public to back the Giants in a big way.

“They haven’t been on San Fran all year,” he said. “I can’t see ‘em being on San Fran here against this Giants team. I’m pretty confident it will be close to a pick by kickoff, or the Giants might even be favored by kickoff.”

Nevertheless, the Hilton and other books were forced to react to the early money. The Hilton moved from pick to Niners -1.5. Offshores, which opened anywhere from Giants -1 to Niners -1, generally moved to Niners -2.5.

BetCris was offering Niners -3 (even) late Sunday night.

Expect this line to be all over the place this week.

In Week 10, the Niners beat the Giants 27-20, covering as 4-point favorites. The score went over the 42.5 total.

The game wasn’t decided until the final minute, when the Niners batted down Eli Manning’s fourth-down pass inside their 10-yard line.

Super Bowl futures update

The Giants have won and covered four straight, outscoring their opponents 121-50. If they go on to win it all, it will be the worst of the four possible outcomes for books’ Super Bowl futures.

A few bettors hold 80-to-1 Giants tickets; more have the Giants in the 60-to-1 to 30-to-1 range.

But, as usual, Super Bowl futures cashed for the books. They wrote boatloads of worthless tickets on the Packers, Saints, Steelers and more.

“We were taking big bets on everybody except the Jaguars, basically,” Kornegay said. “We don’t have any VCUs out there, that’s for sure.”

MGM Mirage sportsbook manager Jeff Stoneback said only the Lions could have caused a loss on Super Bowl futures.

“The Giants would be our smallest winner, then the 49ers,” he said.

AFC Championship Game, Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots, 3 p.m. ET Sunday

MGM Mirage opening line: Patriots -7.5, 49.5

Wynn Las Vegas opening line: Patriots -7, 49.5; Moved to -7 (-120)

The Sports Club recommended line: Patriots -7 (-120), 52

Betonline.com line as of late Sunday: Patriots -7.5, 50

Cantor Gaming opening line: Patriots -7.5, 49.5

Pinnacle line as of late Sunday: Patriots -9, 50

MGM Mirage’s opening line of 7.5 for Ravens-Patriots looked solid Sunday night, as if it might hold all week. Sharps didn’t pounce either way.

“Apparently it’s a good line because nobody’s jumped on it,” Stoneback said. “It hasn’t moved. Hopefully next Sunday we can still say it was a good line.”

But that line wasn’t unanimous. Pinnacle was offering -9 late Sunday.

Wynn Las Vegas sportsbook manager John Avello opened at -7 and moved to -7 (-120) after taking Patriots money.

“Call it three-and a half for homefield and they’re probably three-and-a-half points better than Baltimore, so that’s my number,” Avello told ***********, adding he hopes he doesn’t have to move to 7.5.

Stoneback said the line has to be more than a touchdown given how impressive the Pats looked Saturday, when they blasted Denver 45-10.

“They seem to be clicking at the right time,” he said. “They made a good Denver defense look bad.”

Most books are using a total of 49.5 -- by far the highest for a Baltimore game all season. The Ravens own the league’s No. 3 defense (16.6 points).

“It’s the combination of New England’s offense and its defense,” Stoneback said, meaning the Pats can give up points as fast as they score them.

New England beat Baltimore 23-20 in Week 6 at home last season, but when they met in the playoffs after the 2009 season, the Ravens rolled 33-14 in Foxborough.

Baltimore rushed for 234 yards and four touchdowns, and intercepted Tom Brady three times in that upset. The Ravens were getting 3.5 points.

NFL
Dunkel

Conference Championships

NY Giants at San Francisco
The Giants look to build on their 7-0 ATS record in their last 7 road playoff games. New York is the pick (+3) according to Dunkel, which has the game Even. Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+3). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 22

Game 301-302: Baltimore at New England (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore 135.275; New England 148.298
Dunkel Line: New England by 13; 47
Vegas Line: New England by 7 1/2; 50 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New England (-7 1/2); Under

Game 303-304: NY Giants at San Francisco (6:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 143.438; San Francisco 143.069
Dunkel Line: Even; 45
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 3; 42 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+3); Over

NFL
Long Sheet

Conference Championships

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Sunday, January 22

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BALTIMORE (13 - 4) at NEW ENGLAND (14 - 3) - 1/22/2012, 3:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 145-108 ATS (+26.2 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 90-64 ATS (+19.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 63-38 ATS (+21.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.

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

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NY GIANTS (11 - 7) at SAN FRANCISCO (14 - 3) - 1/22/2012, 6:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in home games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in home lined games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in home games against conference opponents this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
NY GIANTS are 35-17 ATS (+16.3 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive wins since 1992.

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

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NFL
Short Sheet

Conference Championships

Sunday, 1/23/2012

BALTIMORE at NEW ENGLAND, 3:00 PM ET CBS
BALTIMORE: 10-2 ATS Away off ATS loss
NEW ENGLAND: 6-0 Over in January games

NY GIANTS at SAN FRANCISCO, 6:30 PM ET FOX
NY GIANTS: 7-0 Over off 3+ SU wins
SAN FRANCISCO: 7-0 ATS as home favorite

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

NFL

Conference Championships

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Trend Report
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3:00 PM
BALTIMORE vs. NEW ENGLAND
Baltimore is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against New England
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing on the road against New England
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New England's last 6 games when playing at home against Baltimore
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New England's last 5 games at home

6:30 PM
NY GIANTS vs. SAN FRANCISCO
NY Giants are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games
NY Giants are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games when playing San Francisco
San Francisco is 7-3 SU in their last 10 games when playing NY Giants
San Francisco is 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing NY Giants

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:29 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

Iowa at Purdue
The Boilermakers look to bounce back from their 67-62 loss to Wisconsin and build on their 7-0 ATS record in their last 7 games following an ATS defeat. Purdue is the pick (-10) according to Dunkel, which has the Boilermakers favored by 12. Dunkel Pick: Purdue (-10). Here are all of today's picks.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

Game 541-542: Michigan State at Michigan (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Michigan State 75.555; Michigan 70.756
Dunkel Line: Michigan State by 5; 131
Vegas Line: Michigan State by 1; 133
Dunkel Pick: Michigan State (-1); Under

Game 543-544: Georgetown at DePaul (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Georgetown 68.577; DePaul 57.646
Dunkel Line: Georgetown by 11; 152
Vegas Line: Georgetown by 8; 146 1/2
Dunkel Pick Georgetown (-8); Over

Game 545-546: Auburn at LSU (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Auburn 53.466; LSU 65.922
Dunkel Line: LSU by 12 1/2; 118
Vegas Line: LSU by 9 1/2; 121
Dunkel Pick: LSU (-9 1/2); Under

Game 547-548: Texas Tech at Oklahoma (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Texas Tech 51.872; Oklahoma 67.477
Dunkel Line: Oklahoma by 15; 138
Vegas Line: Oklahoma by 13 1/2; 135
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma (-13 1/2); Over

Game 549-550: Iowa at Purdue (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Iowa 59.061; Purdue 70.870
Dunkel Line: Purdue by 12; 148
Vegas Line: Purdue by 10; 143
Dunkel Pick: Purdue (-10); Over

Game 551-552: Maryland at Florida State (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Maryland 59.456; Florida State 68.841
Dunkel Line: Florida State by 9 1/2; 128
Vegas Line: Florida State by 12; 133
Dunkel Pick: Maryland (+12); Under

Game 553-554: Arkansas at Kentucky (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arkansas 63.733; Kentucky 78.156
Dunkel Line: Kentucky by 14 1/2; 155
Vegas Line: Kentucky by 17 1/2; 147
Dunkel Pick: Arkansas (+17 1/2); Over

Game 555-556: Boise State at Colorado State (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boise State 57.011; Colorado State 66.927
Dunkel Line: Colorado State by 10; 157
Vegas Line: Colorado State by 6; 152
Dunkel Pick: Colorado State (-6); Over

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:30 AM

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Tuesday, January 16

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MICHIGAN ST (15 - 3) at MICHIGAN (14 - 4) - 1/17/2012, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN is 30-15 ATS (+13.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 30-15 ATS (+13.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 19-5 ATS (+13.5 Units) as a home underdog of 3 points or less or pick since 1997.
MICHIGAN is 38-20 ATS (+16.0 Units) in home games in January games since 1997.
MICHIGAN is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) off a loss against a conference rival over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 25-12 ATS (+11.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN ST is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MICHIGAN is 3-1 against the spread versus MICHIGAN ST over the last 3 seasons
MICHIGAN is 2-2 straight up against MICHIGAN ST 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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GEORGETOWN (14 - 3) at DEPAUL (10 - 7) - 1/17/2012, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GEORGETOWN is 8-17 ATS (-10.7 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
GEORGETOWN is 7-17 ATS (-11.7 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
GEORGETOWN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games on Tuesday nights over the last 3 seasons.
DEPAUL is 12-27 ATS (-17.7 Units) in home games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997.

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

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AUBURN (11 - 6) at LSU (11 - 6) - 1/17/2012, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
AUBURN is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) after a conference game over the last 3 seasons.
LSU is 2-15 ATS (-14.5 Units) as a home favorite of 9.5 to 12 points since 1997.
LSU is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.
LSU is 54-78 ATS (-31.8 Units) off a loss against a conference rival since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
AUBURN is 3-1 against the spread versus LSU over the last 3 seasons
AUBURN is 3-1 straight up against LSU 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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TEXAS TECH (7 - 9) at OKLAHOMA (11 - 5) - 1/17/2012, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS TECH is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games this season.
TEXAS TECH is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
TEXAS TECH is 87-117 ATS (-41.7 Units) as an underdog since 1997.

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

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IOWA (11 - 8) at PURDUE (13 - 5) - 1/17/2012, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
IOWA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games on Tuesday nights over the last 3 seasons.
PURDUE is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in all home games over the last 2 seasons.
PURDUE is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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MARYLAND (12 - 4) at FLORIDA ST (11 - 6) - 1/17/2012, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MARYLAND is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA ST is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
MARYLAND is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in January games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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ARKANSAS (13 - 4) at KENTUCKY (17 - 1) - 1/17/2012, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARKANSAS is 67-94 ATS (-36.4 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
ARKANSAS is 1-11 ATS (-11.1 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ARKANSAS is 1-11 ATS (-11.1 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
ARKANSAS is 49-86 ATS (-45.6 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1997.
ARKANSAS is 51-86 ATS (-43.6 Units) in road games after a conference game since 1997.
ARKANSAS is 2-13 ATS (-12.3 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
ARKANSAS is 41-69 ATS (-34.9 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games since 1997.
ARKANSAS is 21-37 ATS (-19.7 Units) in road games versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game since 1997.
KENTUCKY is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all games this season.
KENTUCKY is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in all lined games this season.
KENTUCKY is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) as a favorite this season.
KENTUCKY is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in all home games this season.
KENTUCKY is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in home lined games this season.
KENTUCKY is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
KENTUCKY is 1-1 against the spread versus ARKANSAS over the last 3 seasons
KENTUCKY is 1-1 straight up against ARKANSAS 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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BOISE ST (10 - 6) at COLORADO ST (12 - 4) - 1/17/2012, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOISE ST is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in January games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) after a conference game over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) after failing to cover the spread in 3 or more consecutive games over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 7-18 ATS (-12.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BOISE ST is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO ST is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in home games on Tuesday nights since 1997.

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

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:31 AM

NCAAB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, January 16

Michigan State got swept by Michigan LY, losing by 4-7 points, after Spartans had won 10 of previous 12 series games; State is 2-3 in last five visits here. Wolverines are 4-0 at home, 0-2 on road in conference play; they're 6-3 vs top 100 teams. Spartans had 15-game win streak snapped at Northwestern Saturday, but they're 4-1 in true road games, with wins at Gonzaga/Wisconsin. Big Dozen home teams are 10-2 vs spread when number is 5 or less points.

Georgetown won its last six games vs DePaul, winning last three visits here by 20-16-17 points; Hoyas are 8-0 vs teams not in top 100, with seven of eight wins by 14+ points- they're 3-1 in true road games, with wins by 2-3-20 points, and loss at West Virginia. Blue Demons is 1-4 in conference, with all four losses by 16+ points. Big East single digit home underdogs are 7-7 vs spread. Georgetown holds opponents to 27.6% on the arc, 11th-best mark in country.

Auburn won four of last five games with LSU, winning last two visits to Maravich Arena by 4-9 points, but they're 0-5 vs top 100 teams so far this season, with 15-point loss at Kentucky closest of the five. Auburn is 1-3 on road, with win at Hawai'i, and losses by 22-29-30 points. SEC home favorites are 6-3 vs spread, 3-2 if they're laying double digits. LSU lost three of last four games after its 7-game winning streak- they force turnovers on 24.5% of possessions, #27 mark in country.

Texas Tech won three of last four games with Oklahoma, but lost five of last six visits here, losing by 12-14-2-21-9 points. Red Raiders are 0-4 in Big X play, losing by 8-13-35-13 points; they turn ball over 25.2% of time (#331). Sooners are 6-0 vs teams ranked below #200, with five of six wins by 12+ points- they're 1-3 in Big X, with only win by 9 over K-State. Tech is 1-4 on road, with losses by 6-16-8-13 points. Big X home favorites of 13+ points are 3-2 vs spread.

Purdue (-4) won 79-76 at Iowa Dec 28th, its ninth win in last ten series games, in game where Boilers' bench outscored Iowa's 36-20, but Iowa had 21-7 edge at charity stripe. Hawkeyes lost last four visits here, by 1-22-23-23 points. Purdue scored 75+ points in its three conference Ws, 45-62 in its losses. Iowa is 3-3 in league, with losses by 3-29-34 points; they've won at Wisconsin/Minnesota. Big Dozen home favorites of 9+ points are 4-1 against the spread.

Florida State beat North Carolina by 33 Saturday, now is in less desired role as favorite vs Maryland team they've lost to five of last six games, losing last three meetings by 9-4-16 points. Seminoles won last couple home games by 29-33 points, after losing in triple OT to Princeton the home game before that. Maryland covered in only road game, 79-74 loss at NC State; they're 0-4 vs teams in top 60, losing by 20-26-9-5 points. ACC home favorites are 2-6-1 against the spread.

Arkansas upset Kentucky 77-76 at home in OT LY, ending 7-game skid in series; Hogs lost last four visits to Rupp Arena by 17-2-5-31 points. Hogs won eight of last nine games, but they're 0-3 on road this season, with losses by 13-15-8 points. Kentucky won its last nine games; they are 3-1 vs top 100 teams, winning by 10-1-7 point, with loss to Indiana. SEC home favorites are 6-3 vs spread, 3-2 if they're laying double digits. Wildcats block 21.2% of opponents' shots, #2 mark in country.

Boise State-Colorado State meet for first time as Mountain West rivals; Broncos lost first MWC game at home to Air Force Saturday, a bad loss to start league play with. Boise lost five of last seven games; they're 0-5 on road, losing away games by 10-19-17-9-13 points. Colorado State is #5 in country behind arc, making 42.9% of 3-pointer; they've won seven games in row, winning MWC opener in double OT over TCU, after they held off a good Denver team 79-75 the game before that.

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:31 AM

NCAAB

Tuesday, January 16

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
TOCCOA FALLS vs. WESTERN CAROLINA
No trends available
Western Carolina is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Western Carolina is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games

7:00 PM
AUBURN vs. LSU
Auburn is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Auburn is 3-18 SU in its last 21 games on the road
LSU is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
LSU is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home

7:00 PM
MICHIGAN STATE vs. MICHIGAN
Michigan State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Michigan State is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Michigan
Michigan is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Michigan's last 6 games

7:00 PM
GEORGETOWN vs. DEPAUL
Georgetown is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Georgetown's last 6 games on the road
DePaul is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
DePaul is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games

8:00 PM
TEXAS TECH vs. OKLAHOMA
Texas Tech is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road
Texas Tech is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Oklahoma
Oklahoma is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games
Oklahoma is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games

8:00 PM
IOWA vs. PURDUE
Iowa is 3-12 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Iowa's last 5 games on the road
Purdue is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Purdue's last 5 games

9:00 PM
MARYLAND vs. FLORIDA STATE
Maryland is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Maryland is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Florida State is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Florida State's last 7 games

9:00 PM
ARKANSAS vs. KENTUCKY
Arkansas is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
Arkansas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Kentucky is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Kentucky is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

10:00 PM
NEBRASKA OMAHA vs. NEVADA
No trends available
Nevada is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Nevada is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

10:00 PM
BOISE STATE vs. COLORADO STATE
Boise State is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Boise State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Colorado State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Colorado State is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

10:30 PM
CS BAKERSFIELD vs. PACIFIC
No trends available
Pacific is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pacific's last 5 games

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:34 AM

NCAAB

Tuesday, January 16

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What bettors need to know: Michigan State at Michigan
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Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Wolverines (2, 133)

THE STORY: The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry had turned one-sided until the Wolverines broke through last season. Michigan had lost eight of 10 entering last year, but swept the season series against the Spartans for the first time since winning five straight from 1996-98. Now, the 19th-ranked Wolverines will try to make it three in a row against No. 9 Michigan State on Tuesday at Crisler Center, where both teams enter off tough road losses. The Spartans snapped their 15-game win streak in an 81-74 loss at Northwestern, while Michigan fell 75-59 at Iowa. Michigan has won three of the last five in the series at Crisler.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN, ESPN3.

THE LINE: Oddsmakers opened with the Wolverines set as 2-point home underdogs with a 133-point total on the board.

ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE (15-3, 4-1 Big Ten): Coach Tom Izzo tried to turn the Northwestern defeat into a teaching moment for his freshmen -- that life on the road in Big Ten play can and will be difficult. That’s always the case against the Wolverines, who beat the Spartans 70-63 in Ann Arbor last season. In that contest, Michigan State shot just 32.8 percent from the field and lost despite holding a 44-25 rebounding advantage. The Spartans figure to have an edge inside against the undersized Wolverines, but will need to hit jump shots against John Beilein’s 1-3-1 zone to have a chance.

ABOUT MICHIGAN (14-4, 4-2 Big Ten): It can be argued that Michigan has more at stake in this year’s matchup with the Spartans than any other meeting since 1998. That year marked the last time in which both teams were ranked when they played. In addition, Michigan is trying to avoid losing consecutive games for the first time while keeping pace with the Spartans and Illinois, who are both atop the conference at 4-1. Michigan took care of the basketball in the loss to the Hawkeyes but couldn’t establish a rhythm offensively. The Wolverines shot 38 percent — including an 8-of-31 effort from 3-point range — and gave up too many baskets inside.

TIP-INS:

1. Beilein is 2-4 against the Spartans since taking over as Michigan’s head coach in 2007.

2. Michigan State’s 15-game win streak was its longest since 1998-99, when it won 22 in a row.

3. The Wolverines lead the all-time series 93-74.

TRENDS:

- Michigan is 22-8 against the spread in its last 30.
- Michigan State is 5-1 against the spread in its last six road games.
- Michigan State is 1-4 against the spread in its last five games at Michigan.

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:36 AM

NCAAB

Tuesday, January 16

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Good team, bad bet: Strong NCAAB teams slumping ATS
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If only college basketball betting were as simple as backing the best team on the floor.

Of course, that's rarely the case. Here's a quick snapshot of three teams that should be doing better against the number so far this season, led by the bankroll-busting Kentucky Wildcats.

Kentucky Wildcats (17-1 straight up, 3-13-1 against the spread)

Does anybody even remember the last time the Wildcats covered a pointspread? Try Nov. 11 when they beat up on Penn State. With that win, they moved to 3-0 against the spread on the year and it’s all been downhill since. Kentucky has been favored by at least 17 points 11 different times this season and opened as a 17.5-point favorite at home to Arkansas on Tuesday.

Texas Longhorns (12-5 straight up, 3-9 against the spread)

Texas has had its problems this season and is currently tied for fourth place in the Big 12 with Iowa State. But with 12 wins, you’d like to see a few more wins against the number. Right now they’re tied with Texas Tech for the worst ATS record in the conference. The Longhorns allow 64.1 points per game and opponents are hitting 34.4 percent of their trey attempts, so it’s pretty clear where the problem lies. Texas has dropped each of its last four games against the spread heading into Wednesday’s road game at Kansas State.

Wichita State Shockers (14-3 straight up, 5-9 against the spread)

The Shockers, who are hot on Creighton’s heels for top spot in the Missouri Valley Conference, have struggled against fat pointspreads this season. They are just 3-6 against the spread when they were favored by at least 10 points. The good news is that there are some signs they may be turning it around. Wichita State has won five in a row straight up and has covered in consecutive games ahead of Wednesday’s road date with Northern Iowa.

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:37 AM

NCAAB

Tuesday, January 16

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College funds: Tuesday's best NCAAB bets
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Auburn Tigers at LSU Tigers (10, 121)

As exciting as Auburn’s previous win was, perhaps none was more exhilarating for the school in recent memory than the last time it played LSU in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

Auburn, which defeated Mississippi 69-68 in double overtime Saturday, returns Tuesday to where it last met LSU on March 5, 2011. Trailing by as many as 15 in the second half, Auburn outscored LSU 35-11 over the final 14:24 to seal LSU’s place in the SEC basement.

LSU, losers of two straight and three of its last four, will be happy to return home – where it is 6-2 this season – after dropping a pair of road games last week to Alabama and Arkansas.

LSU holds an 81-62 advantage in the series, but Auburn won four of the last five straight up and has covered the number in 10 of the last 12 meetings.

Pick: Auburn

Georgetown Hoyas at DePaul Blue Demons (8, 146.5)

No. 12 Georgetown is not alone in discovering that life within the Big East is a tad more difficult than the pre-conference slate.

Even the unranked teams in the Big East can present a big challenge, as the Hoyas found out in back-to-back losses to West Virginia and Cincinnati.

Georgetown had nearly a week off to prepare for St. John’s on Sunday and used that time to fix the defensive deficiencies and execution problems that had plagued the team in the previous two contests. The Hoyas ended up cruising to a home win and look strong as they head to Rosemont, Ill., on Tuesday for a date with DePaul.

The Blue Demons, like all Big East schools, believe they can win at home and proved as much with a triumph over Pittsburgh earlier this month. Things have not gone well since with three straight losses.

A win over Pitt isn't exactly anything to hang your hat on these days. We'll stick with the Hoyas.

Pick: Hoyas

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:40 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Carolina at Pittsburgh
The Hurricanes look to take advantage of a Pittsburgh team that is 1-5 in its last 6 games as a favorite. Carolina is the pick (+170) according to Dunkel, which has the Hurricanes favored by 1/2 a goal. Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+170). Here are all of today's picks.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

Game 1-2: Minnesota at Philadelphia (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 10.463; Philadelphia 11.276
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia (-200); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-200); Under

Game 3-4: Edmonton at Columbus (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Edmonton 11.363; Columbus 9.673
Dunkel Line & Total: Edmonton by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Columbus (-125); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (+105); Over

Game 5-6: Carolina at Pittsburgh (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 11.338; Pittsburgh 11.041
Dunkel Line & Total: Carolina by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Pittsburgh (-200); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+170); Over

Game 7-8: Ottawa at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 10.860; Toronto 11.897
Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-125); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-125); Under

Game 9-10: NY Islanders at Washington (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Islanders 11.703; Washington 11.302
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-210); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (+175); Over

Game 11-12: Winnipeg at New Jersey (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Winnipeg 10.677; New Jersey 12.020
Dunkel Line & Total: New Jersey by 1 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: New Jersey (-175); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New Jersey (-175); Under

Game 13-14: Nashville at NY Rangers (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Nashville 11.335; NY Rangers 12.673
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Rangers by 1 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: NY Rangers (-165); 5
Dunkel Pick: NY Rangers (-165); Under

Game 15-16: Boston at Tampa Bay (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 10.638; Tampa Bay 10.988
Dunkel Line & Total: Tampa Bay by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-200); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+170); Over

Game 17-18: Detroit at Dallas (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 11.961; Dallas 12.330
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit (-165); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+145); Over

Game 19-20: Los Angeles at Vancouver (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 11.724; Vancouver 12.972
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 1; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Vancouver (-185); 5
Dunkel Pick: Vancouver (-185); Under

Game 21-22: Calgary at San Jose (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Calgary 11.943; San Jose 11.568
Dunkel Line & Total: Calgary by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: San Jose (-210); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Calgary (+175); Under

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:45 AM

NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Tuesday, January 17

Hot teams
-- Flyers won five of last six indoor home games.
-- Pittsburgh won its last two games 6-3/4-1, but they've lost last four at home.
-- Senators won eight of their last ten games.
-- Washington won its last seven home games.
-- New Jersey won four of its last five games.
-- Predators won their last five games, allowing eight goals. Rangers won five of their last six home games.
-- Boston won five of its last seven games.
-- Red Wings won four of their last five games.
-- Los Angeles is 7-0 in game following its last seven losses. Canucks are 10-5 in their last fifteen games.
-- Sharks won six of their last eight games.

Cold teams
-- Minnesota lost it last eight road games, scoring eight goals.
-- Oilers lost ten of their last eleven road games. Columbus lost eight of its last ten home games.
-- Hurricanes lost five of their last seven games. Toronto lost last couple games 3-2/3-0, but they've won five of their last six at home.
-- Islanders lost four of their last five road games.
-- Winnipeg lost five of its last seven games.
-- Lightning lost its last seven games, allowing 34 goals.
-- Dallas Stars lost three of its last four games.
-- Flames lost their last five road games, outscored 24-8.

Totals
-- Under is 3-1-1 in Minnesota's last five road games.
-- Last five Edmonton games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Carolina road game went over the total.
-- Six of last seven Ottawa road games stayed under total.
-- Four of last five Islander road games went over total.
-- Five of last six Winnipeg games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Nashville road games stayed under total.
-- Six of last eight Boston road games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Detroit games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 5-0-1 in Kings' last six road games.
-- Four of last five San Jose home games stayed under total.

Series records
-- Flyers won four of last six games against Minnesota.
-- Blue Jackets lost three of last four games against Edmonton.
-- Penguins won five of last seven games against Carolina.
-- Senators won three of last four visits to Toronto.
-- Islanders lost six of last seven games against Washington.
-- Devils won five of last six games against Winnipeg.
-- Rangers won 2-1 in SO at Nashville in LY's meeting.
-- Bruins won three of last four games against Tampa Bay.
-- Dallas Stars won six of last nine games against Detroit.
-- Kings lost six of their last nine games against Vancouver.
-- Sharks won five of last six games against Calgary.

Back-to-Back
-- Ottawa is 4-5 if it played night before, 2-3 on road.
-- Islanders are 2-2 if they played the night before.
-- Winnipeg is 0-6 if it played the night before, outscored 26-5.
-- Nashville is 2-3 if it played the night before.
-- Bruins are 2-2 if they played night before.
-- Red Wings are 5-1 if they won the night before. Dallas Stars are 0-6 if they played the night before.

**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:50 AM

NHL

Tuesday, January 16

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
CAROLINA vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Carolina's last 12 games when playing Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Carolina
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Pittsburgh's last 12 games when playing Carolina

7:00 PM
EDMONTON vs. COLUMBUS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Edmonton's last 7 games on the road
Edmonton is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Columbus's last 7 games when playing Edmonton
Columbus is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home

7:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. PHILADELPHIA
Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Minnesota is 2-13 SU in its last 15 games
Philadelphia is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Philadelphia's last 9 games when playing Minnesota

7:00 PM
NASHVILLE vs. NY RANGERS
Nashville is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Nashville is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
NY Rangers are 4-7-1 SU in their last 12 games ,when playing Nashville
NY Rangers are 11-3 SU in their last 14 games

7:00 PM
NY ISLANDERS vs. WASHINGTON
NY Islanders are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games on the road
NY Islanders are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games when playing Washington
Washington is 6-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing NY Islanders
Washington is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing at home against NY Islanders

7:00 PM
OTTAWA vs. TORONTO
Ottawa is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Ottawa's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Ottawa
Toronto is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games

7:00 PM
WINNIPEG vs. NEW JERSEY
Winnipeg is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing New Jersey
Winnipeg is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
New Jersey is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Winnipeg
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of New Jersey's last 9 games

7:30 PM
BOSTON vs. TAMPA BAY
Boston is 12-3 SU in its last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Boston's last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games when playing Boston
Tampa Bay is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Boston

8:30 PM
DETROIT vs. DALLAS
Detroit is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing Detroit
Dallas is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games when playing Detroit

10:00 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. VANCOUVER
Los Angeles is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Vancouver
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Vancouver's last 8 games when playing at home against Los Angeles
Vancouver is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Los Angeles

10:30 PM
CALGARY vs. SAN JOSE
Calgary is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games
Calgary is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Jose's last 7 games when playing Calgary
San Jose is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Calgary

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**Udog** · 01-17-2012, 08:53 AM

NHL

Tuesday, January 17

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Pucking the trends: This week's best NHL bets
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Every week, we update you on who's hot, who's not and situational betting spots in the National Hockey League.

HOT TEAM: Ottawa Senators

There have been many in and around the Eastern Conference -- players, coaches, fans -- simply waiting for the Senators to come back to life. Expected to hover around the bottom of the league when the season started, it's probably time to admit that this club is here to stay.

A 3-2 win over Montreal on Saturday night pushed Ottawa to within one point of first-place Boston in the Northeast Division, which is a feat in itself.

Ottawa has at least one point in all six games it's played this month, and has won five of them. Jason Spezza has 19 goals, Erik Karlsson has 38 assists, Daniel Alfredsson has 33 points and all is well with the surprising Senators. Keep them on your radar, moving forward.

COLD TEAM: Phoenix Coyotes

The Western Conference playoff race is jammed so tight, a losing streak here and there and a team might be out of it ... for good. The Coyotes are not to that point yet, but a bit of a rut has them below the cutoff line and it won't be easy to get back up above it. With 22 goals, Radim Vrbata is having a great season, but no one else has more than 14 and it's starting to show on the scoreboard.

Phoenix lost at lowly Columbus, 4-3, on Thursday night, continuing a miserable month that dropped them to fourth place in the Pacific Division through Saturday night. The Coyotes were also four points out of a playoff spot at that point.

In January, and heading into Monday's game versus Colorado, the Coyotes have only one win in six tries -- a 5-1 decision over the Islanders on Jan. 7 -- and that game with the Avalanche starts a stretch of four games in six days. So, there's a lot of work ahead for a team that not many care about in the desert to begin with.

OVER PLAY: Carolina Hurricanes

Nine points out of a playoff spot through Saturday night, the Hurricanes are probably not going to rally behind new coach Kirk Muller and make the postseason. But they continue to play entertaining hockey, and clearly have become one of the better over bets in the league.

A 4-2 victory over the Bruins on Saturday night was the second straight over for the Hurricanes, and ninth in the last 10 games. Last Tuesday, they dropped a 2-1 decision to Philadelphia in a random, out-of-the-ordinary defensive battle, but other than that, it's been up-and-down hockey aplenty for the Hurricanes.

It doesn't show necessarily in the statistics sheet. The Hurricanes have five players in double digit goals -- Tuomo Ruutu, Jeff Skinner, Eric Staal, Chad LaRose and Brandon Sutter -- but no one is over 15. The defense, though, has been a little behind the times, and when you have a team 3.14 goals-against average, that's going to net some overs, folks.

UNDER PLAY: San Jose Sharks

The Sharks have been erratic at times, but one of the good things about having the playoff pedigree that they have, is they know when to turn it on. And it's getting to that point this year. Headed into Sunday's game against Chicago, San Jose was 7-1-2 in its last 10 games, was in first place in the Pacific Division and was the proud owner of the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference.

And they've done it with defense. A 2-1 win over the Blue Jackets on Saturday night was the Sharks' second straight under, and eighth in the last 10 games. The Sharks allowed one goal or less in five of those games, and they took a 6-0-1 mark in January into the tilt versus the Blackhawks.

San Jose has seven players in positive double digits in plus-minus, led by Marc-Edouard Vlasic (plus-19), and goaltenders Antti Niemi and Thomas Greiss have combined for a 2.22 goals-against average. As long as that keeps up, the Sharks will remain a consistent, efficient under play.

SURVEYING THE SCHEDULE:

** Maybe a 4-1 win at Florida on Friday night is what the Penguins need to finally get kick-started. Either way, we’ll know a lot more about that team in a week, as Sunday’s game at Tampa Bay began a stretch of four games in six days, including a back-to-back set versus the Rangers and Canadiens on Thursday and Friday, respectively.

** The Canucks, who played the Ducks on Sunday, have a light road ahead of them. Monday, in fact, begins a stretch in which they will play just two games in eight days. So, expect some fresh legs when Vancouver plays Los Angeles on Tuesday and San Jose on Saturday.

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Announcement

Tuesday's Trends and Indexes - 1/17 (NFL, NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

Tuesday's Trends and Indexes - 1/17 (NFL, NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

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