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**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:06 AM

Sunday’s betting tips: Cats beware of Acy

Who’s hot

NCAAB: The over is 6-1 in Baylor's last seven overall and 4-1 in Kentucky's last four overall.

NCAAB: The under is 11-2 in Kansas' last 13 neutral-site games and 4-1 in UNC's last five NCAA Tournament games.

NBA: The Warriors are 5-1 ATS in their last six road games and the under is 8-2 in their last 10 road games.

NBA: The Jazz are 4-0 ATS in their last four overall.

NHL: The under is 7-1 in the Oilers' last eight overall.

NHL: The Panthers are 5-1 in their last six home games and 5-1 in their last six against the Eastern Conference.

Who’s not

NCAAB: Kentucky is 2-11-1 in its last 14 non-conference games.

NCAAB: Kansas is 1-5 ATS in its last six games against teams with winning SU records.

NBA: The Nuggets are 1-6 ATS in their last seven overall and 0-4 ATS in their last four against the Western Conference.

NBA: The Cavs are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games.

NHL: The Blues are 1-4 in their last five overall and 1-4 in their last five road games.

NHL: The Bruins are 0-4 in their last four road games.

Key stat

26 - Points per game averaged by Lakers' center Andrew Bynum in two games against the Grizzlies this season. Bynum went for 15 points and 15 rebounds on January 8 then torched Memphis with 37 points on March 13. Not surprisingly, the Lakers are 2-0 overall and 2-0 ATS in the head-to-head series this year. Perhaps the matchup between the Gasol brothers (Pau for Los Angeles and Marc for Memphis) will be on the backburner once again when the two Western Conference foes collide on Sunday.

Injuries that shouldn’t be overlooked

As expected, North Carolina point guard Kendall Marshall missed his team's NCAA Tournament Regional Semifinal against Ohio on Friday. The Tar Heels struggled mightily and were taken to overtime by the Bobcats before prevailing 73-65. Ohio guard Walter Offutt exploited UNC with 26 points.

"You know we're missing our point guard," said Tyler Zeller, who grabbed a career-high 22 rebounds. "It's a transition getting together with a new point guard, but it's something we've got to deal with."

Marshall is not expected to play on Sunday against Kansas after breaking his right wrist last weekend against Creighton. He went through some non-contact drills on Saturday and said afterward that he is not going to play in the game "as of right now."

Biggest games on the slate

Baylor Bears vs. Kentucky Wildcats (-8, 147.5)

Kansas Jayhawks vs. North Carolina Tar Heels (2, 143.5)

Notable quotable

"Baylor fans have been blessed, the nation's been blessed, and he is a better person than a player." -- Baylor head coach Scott Drew on senior forward Quincy Acy after Acy scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in a 75-70 win over Xavier on Friday night. Xavier head coach Chris Mack called Acy "a cage-rattler" after his team's hard-fought loss. The Bears will play for a spot in the Final Four when they go up against top-ranked Kentucky on Sunday.

Tips and notes

Celtics' guard Mickael Pietrus landed awkwardly on his head in Friday's loss to Philadelphia and was carried off on a stretcher. He is considered doubtful (and that's putting it generously for Pietrus and Boston) for Sunday's game against Washington. "It's just been a hell of a year right now," said head coach Doc Rivers, referring to a multitude of injuries. "We have a resilient group, though," Rivers said. "I'm so proud of our team -- we just keep sustaining injuries. But guys are just trying to play and win."

Confusing your N. Backstroms would normally be difficult when the Wild and Capitals square off, but it likely won't be a problem on Sunday. Minnesota goalie Niklas Backstrom is dealing with a lower body injury and will not play. Washington center Nicklas Backstrom has not played since suffering a concussion on January 3 and there is still no timetable for his return. Capitals' goalie Tomas Vokoun (lower body) is also questionable, as is right wing Joel Ward (lower body). The home team is 10-1 in the last 11 meetings between the two teams, a trend that bodes well for Washington.

Tiger Woods leads by one stroke over Graeme McDowell heading into Sunday at Bay Hill. Woods is going off at -300 to close the deal while McDowell is the second favorite at +300. Here's what McDowell had to say about the matter: "Bring it on. It's not just (Tiger). It's a bunched-up leaderboard. There's a fair bit of expectation on Tiger. He's looking to complete the comeback tomorrow, because there's no doubt he's playing great. "He's got the ball under control, but he's got to go out there and try to win the same way I do, and other players have got that opportunity to win.''

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:06 AM

Armadillo: Sunday's six-pack

Odds and ends on college basketball conferences........these stats are for conference games only........
-- From 2005-11, Big Dozen ranked no worse than 4th in nation in ratio of assists to baskets made; this year, they slipped to 18th, which signals an increase in high ball screens and a decrease in passing.
-- ACC has gotten worse because lot of coaches don't want to compete with Coach K and Roy Williams; think its a path to getting fired. Pace of ACC games dropped to #20 this season, after being top 10 the previous nine seasons, with four seasons in top three.
-- Big East ranked #31 this year out of 32 leagues in 3-point percentage; over last six years, league has never been higher than #20. Hard to say if its bad shooting, great defense, or in all probability, little bit of both.
-- From 2003-10, Ivy League was ranked from #20-28 in country, one of weaker leagues in country. Last two years, they've jumped up to #15-16, putting them right in the middle of conference ratings.
-- We need to see some Atlantic Sun games on TV; league was #15 this year; over last decade, they've never been lower than #6 in steals %age-lot of pressing and aggrressive defense. Fun to watch. Anyone listening?
-- Kids in the Big Sky can shoot; over last three years, they ranked #1-3-2 in 3-point percentage; over last five years, only once were they ranked lower than #8 from the foul line.

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

Armadillo: Sunday's List of 13: Random thoughts on a quiet weekend.......

13) Kentucky beat Louisville 69-62 on New Year's Eve; if the teams play at the Final Four and Kentucky wins again, Cardinal fans might actually think they've had a lousy season, even though they made the Final Four.

12) Kendall Marshall practiced some Saturday; you have to think he'll be in uniform today, harder to tell if he'll play, and if he does play, how effective can he be? Kid had his wrist operated on six days ago.

11) Florida was 8-11 from the arc in the first half, 0-9 in second, in a bitter 72-68 loss to Louisville. Billy Donovan is now 0-7 against Rick Pitino, but this was first time they met since Donovan won his two national titles.

10) Eldrick Woods leads the Bay Hill tournament by a stroke, interesting to see if he can hold the lead and win for the first time in couple of years. Also interesting to see what the TV ratings will be for it.

9) Rumors from people who live in central New York indicate that at least part of the reason Fab Melo was ineligible revolve around an old girlfriend and a restraining order that may or may not have been adhered to.

8) Baylor is the only team in Elite 8 this year thats never won the national championship before.

7) Ohio State got a total of 8 points in 20 minutes played out of its bench, as Thad Matta showed zero confidence in his subs, even in a game that saw Jared Sullinger play only six minutes in the first half. Lenzelle Smith had a huge game, stepping up to make baskets at critical times.

Just for the hell of it, some spring training stats..........
6) Howie Kendrick and the world famous Lorenzo Cain (KC) are batting .462, which leads the major leagues this spring.

5) Tigers must be scoring lot of runs this spring; Delmon Young (19) and Ryan Raburn (18) leads the major leagues in RBI.

4) Erick Aybar and the obscure Eric Sogard (Oak) have both scored 13 runs, which leads the major leagues. A's may need to make Sogard a 3B, since as I write this, they really don't have one with major league qualifications.

3) Neither Adam Wainwright (14 IP) or Jake Westbrook (12) has allowed a run so far this spring; Josh Beckett has allowed two runs in 14 IP.

2) At the end of the day, with all the stuff thats gone on, you have to think while Jim Boeheim is disappointed about losing, he's probably also at least a little bit relieved the whole long season is finally over with. No more press to badger him, no more irritating questions to answer.

1) Hasn't been lot of high drama in the tournament so far, which means one thing; the last five games are going to be much better than usual. Whole key to Sunday's UNC game is whether or not the Marshall kid can play.

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:07 AM

NASCAR betting: Auto Club 400 preview and picks

NASCAR continues its zigzag course across America, heading back out west to the Auto Club Speedway near Los Angeles for Sunday’s Sprint Cup Series Auto Club 400.

While the series has covered the far reaches of the country, it has also raced on a different sized track each week. Sunday will mark the first trip of the season to a 2-mile oval and is shaping up to be a battle between two California natives: Jimmie Johnson and Kevin Harvick.

Johnson has won two of the last four races at the Auto Club Speedway and is the series' active leader with five wins overall in California. He’s also coming off two Top-5 finishes in the last four races. After the team won their appeal for penalties during Daytona this week, Johnson had 25 points added back and vaulted 12 spots to 11th in the standings.

He was second at the Auto Club Speedway last season, losing to Harvick by 0.144 seconds – the closest NSCS finish in the track’s history. The No. 48 has the history and the motivation to go all the way this weekend.

“We got our first Sprint Cup career win there in 2002, so it’s a special track to me,” Johnson said. “I remember last year, we were very close to Victory Lane, about three-quarters of a mile away from the trophy, but Kevin Harvick found a way around the outside. So, I know we’ll go there and be very competitive.”

Just like he did last season, Harvick is looking to spoil Johnson’s homecoming with a party of his own. As the defending winner of this race, and with three Top 10s and a Top 5 finish at California in the four races prior to that, Harvick has a good shot at making it back-to-back victories in the Golden State.

"The last two years, the race has pretty much come down to us and the No. 48 team (Jimmie Johnson),” Harvick said, pointing out that he nearly won in 2010. “The year before I ran into the wall and last year we won. That was good to come back and rebound from the mistake from 2010 and being able to race with Jimmie was a lot of fun. Especially at the California race track. That's been a great race track for us over the last several years and I’m looking forward to going back.”

While Johnson and Harvick have traded spring race victories, it’s important to remember that Tony Stewart scored a win in between their trips to Victory Lane. The defending Sprint Cup champion - a winner at Phoenix earlier this month - captured the Auto Club Speedway’s final 500-mile fall race in 2010 and could spoil the Sunday for the California kids.

Head-to-head

Carl Edwards vs. Matt Kenseth: You can’t dismiss the Roush-Fenway Fords at California. While they may not be favorites Sunday, both Edwards and Kenseth have won here before. Edwards is looking to rebound from a disastrous outing at Bristol last week while Kenseth has been strong to start 2012. This week’s primetime matchup should be a good one, but look for Edwards to finish ahead of Kenseth.

Martin Truex Jr. vs. Mark Martin: This battle among teammates at Michael Waltrip Racing should be another good matchup. The MWR team surprised many by having all three cars finish in the Top 5 at Bristol last week. Truex looked strong last Sunday and seems to be coming alive. Martin is running a part-time schedule and returns this week with the same team Brian Vickers led laps and finished fifth with last Sunday. Martin has the best record at Auto Club Speedway - a win in 1998 among six top-five finishes - so look for him to finish with Truex in his rear view.

Bottom line

Eleven of the 22 races at Auto Club Speedway were won from starting positions outside the top 10. Only one has been won from the pole (Jimmie Johnson in 2008). The most productive two starting positions are third and 24th, with three victories each. Matt Kenseth won the 2006 spring race from the 31st starting position - the deepest in the field that a race winner has started.

Picks

Jimmie Johnson (+700)
Kevin Harvick (+1,000)
Tony Stewart (+800)

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:07 AM

MLB betting: Exploring American League offenses

We know the feeling. That initial surge of spring training games has come and gone, and though the clubs are still battling it out in Florida and Arizona, it’s just tough to get juiced up for a Tuesday afternoon exhibition game between the Orioles and Twins in Ft. Myers.

But fear not, the regular season will be here before you know it and games will count again ... finally.

In the interim, let’s continue to plot and plan for the real competition. Here are some of the American League’s offenses that will make headlines and help you cash out at the window this baseball season:

THE EXPECTED

TEAM: New York Yankees
2011 RUN TOTAL: 867 (second in majors)
Over/Under: 71-78-13

The Yankees couldn't get it done in the postseason, but churned out the offense during the regular season last year. You can thank Curtis Granderson for that.

The others in the lineup - Robinson Cano, Mark Teixeira, and even slow seasons from Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter - certainly added to the mix. But Granderson's totals (41 home runs, 119 RBIs, 25 steals) had to surprise even the most slanted New York fans.

Not much has changed with this lineup. Another year, another step closer to retirement for some of the aging Yankees stars. But regardless, the Bronx Bombers can do as much damage as anyone in the American League.

TEAM: Boston Red Sox
2011 RUN TOTAL: 875 (first in majors)
Over/Under: 80-72-10

Adrian Gonzalez was as advertised, posting a .338 BA and 117 RBIs, and there’s no reason to believe that won’t continue. It’s clear that you can plug him in at first base every day, and let him do his thing. But again, like Granderson and the Yankees, the Red Sox were where they were last year because of pleasant surprises in the lineup.

Those are the keys to outstanding offensive seasons, and Jacoby Ellsbury in 2011 certainly fit that bill. The Red Sox have been waiting on Ellsbury and it’s not like he came out of nowhere. But, honestly, who could have predicted 32 homers, 39 steals and 105 RBIs?

He has enormous expectations now, as a result, but maybe Carl Crawford can take some of that pressure off him and balance out this lineup even more. Expect more of the same in Fenway Park this season.

TEAM: Texas Rangers
2011 RUN TOTAL: 855 (third in majors)
Over/Under: 85-68-9

Even in the dark days in Texas, where pitching was non-existent, you could always count on the Rangers’ bats. And now that they have some arms and a winning culture, that offense actually ends up in results.

The numbers at the plate were strong and balanced last year. Michael Young had 106 RBIs. Josh Hamilton had a .298 BA. Adrian Beltre had 32 home runs. This team can hit and run, and that doesn't figure to change anytime soon.

And if you're looking for a catalyst for this season, try Elvis Andrus. The shortstop needs to improve on his .279 BA from last season, but he drove in 60 runs, scored 96 and stole 37 bases. Not bad.

THE UNEXPECTED

TEAM: Kansas City Royals
2011 RUN TOTAL: 705 (sixth in majors)
Over/Under: 77-75-10

The Royals don't have the pop at the plate - or in the wallet - that the Red Sox and Yankees have and they likely won't make a postseason charge in a tough division. But Kansas City does have people in the right places in the lineup and last year piecemealed a terrific season.

Melky Cabrera hit .305, Alex Gordon posted 23 home runs, and Billy Butler drove in 95, as the Royals surprised many at the plate. Cabrera is now with the Giants, but there are other players who can make up the production, namely highly-touted first baseman Eric Hosmer, who hit .293 with 19 homers and 78 RBIs last year.

TEAM: Toronto Blue Jays
2011 RUN TOTAL: 704 (seventh in majors)
Over/Under: 83-73-6

It's easy to just say, “Jose Bautista does it all” - and he does. But he's not doing it by himself in Toronto. He maintained his momentum in 2011 and posted impressive totals of a .302 average, 43 homers, and 103 RBIs - tops on the team for all categories.

But Adam Lind, in just 125 games, managed 26 homers and 87 RBIs. And catcher J.P. Arencibia, a promising prospect who could anchor things behind the plate, had 23 HRs and 78 RBIs. They need some speed, though, and that might hurt the overall production. Rajai Davis had 34 steals and could do the same again, but he's slated to lose time to newcomer Colby Rasmus in centerfield.

THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

TEAM: Los Angeles Angels
2011 RUN TOTAL: 629 (17th in majors)
Over/Under: 71-78-13

The Angels, with injuries and inconsistencies and an overall malaise hovering over them, struggled at the plate last season. No one had 100 RBIs, no one even had 90, though Mark Trumbo (87) and Torii Hunter (82) came close.

In comes Albert Pujols, and Kendrys Morales returns, and everything changes. Plus, you have to think that Vernon Wells, coming off a dismal year, will benefit from the added depth in the lineup.

Tigers 3B Cabrera could be ready for Opening Day

Detroit Tigers third baseman Miguel Cabrera could be in the lineup for Opening Day if he gets medical clearance from team doctor's next Tuesday.

Cabrera has a small fracture in the bone under his right eye and needed eight stitches after getting hit by a hard grounder in a spring training game earlier this month. He was bloodied when a ball hit by Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Hunter Pence took a bad hop and made contact near his right eye.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland said Saturday that Cabrera has no problems with his vision.

The 28-year-old is attempting a move back to third base this year to accommodate the arrival of first baseman Prince Fielder.

Cabrera batted .344 with 30 homers and 105 RBIs last season.

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:23 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

Kansas vs. North Carolina
The Tar Heels look to take advantage of a Kansas team that is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games against teams with a winning record. North Carolina is the pick (+2) according to Dunkel, which has the Tar Heels favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: North Carolina (+2). Here are all of today's picks.

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

Game 717-718: Baylor vs. Kentucky (2:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baylor 71.131; Kentucky 81.032
Dunkel Line: Kentucky by 10; 143
Vegas Line: Kentucky by 8; 148
Dunkel Pick: Kentucky (-8); Under

Game 719-720: Kansas vs. North Carolina (4:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas 73.426; North Carolina 74.235
Dunkel Line: North Carolina by 1; 147
Vegas Line: Kansas by 2; 143
Dunkel Pick: North Carolina (+2); Over

Game 721-722: Oakland at Utah State (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 59.511; Utah State 63.456
Dunkel Line: Utah State by 4; 148
Vegas Line: Utah State by 5; 152
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (+5); Under

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 25

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BAYLOR (30 - 7) vs. KENTUCKY (35 - 2) - 3/25/2012, 2:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BAYLOR is 20-31 ATS (-14.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BAYLOR is 20-31 ATS (-14.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
BAYLOR is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BAYLOR is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.
BAYLOR is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
KENTUCKY is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in a neutral court game where the total is 145 to 149.5 over the last 3 seasons.
KENTUCKY is 64-43 ATS (+16.7 Units) in March games since 1997.

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

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KANSAS (30 - 6) vs. N CAROLINA (32 - 5) - 3/25/2012, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) when the total is 140 to 149.5 this season.
KANSAS is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) after allowing 60 points or less this season.
N CAROLINA is 125-95 ATS (+20.5 Units) after a non-conference game since 1997.
N CAROLINA is 125-94 ATS (+21.6 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
N CAROLINA is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
N CAROLINA is 1-11 ATS (-11.1 Units) in road games when playing with one or less days rest 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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OAKLAND (20 - 15) at UTAH ST (20 - 15) - 3/25/2012, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH ST is 46-28 ATS (+15.2 Units) in home games after a non-conference game since 1997.
UTAH ST is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) in home games in all tournament games since 1997.
OAKLAND is 36-23 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 36-23 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in March games over the last 3 seasons.
OAKLAND is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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NCAAB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 25

Since 2003, underdogs are 26-12 against spread in regional finals; since 2002, dogs of 8+ points are 7-1-1 vs spread in this round. Baylor is 5-4 vs spread as an underdog this season, 2-4 in last six tries-- six of their last seven games went over the total. Kentucky's game Friday night was tougher than normal, against a rival. Indiana shot 52%, even though their PG is out for the year. Baylor has better athletes than Indiana- they got out to 20-4 lead early on Xavier, then held on to advance. Bears were in this same exact spot two years ago, got hosed by refs in 78-71 loss (+4) to Duke. UK better not look ahead to potential game with Louisville.

Nothing matters in Carolina-Kansas game as much as Marshall's health; if he can't give them some kind of minutes, some kind of lift, then UNC is going to get rolled here-- you can't win this kind of a game without a solid floor general. White was OK Friday, but now he has to do it again 45 hours later and Ohio did exploit him on defense. Since 2004, #1 seeds are 9-11 SU in regional finals, 3-7 when facing a #2 seed. Kansas hasn't shot the ball at all last two games, making just 7-38 from arc in struggles with Purdue/NC State (trailed both games at half); Carolina turned ball over 24 times Friday; Marshall did practice a little bit yesterday.

NCAAB

Sunday, March 25

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Trend Report
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2:20 PM
BAYLOR vs. KENTUCKY
No trends available
Kentucky is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Kentucky is 24-1 SU in its last 25 games

5:05 PM
KANSAS vs. NORTH CAROLINA
No trends available
North Carolina is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games

6:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. UTAH STATE
No trends available
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah State's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Utah State's last 5 games

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 25

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NCAA previews & picks: North Carolina vs. Kansas
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No. 1 North Carolina Tar Heels vs. No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks (-2, 144)

THE STORY: Two of the most successful programs in college basketball history meet in the Midwest Regional final in St. Louis when the No. 2 seed Jayhawks face former coach Roy Williams and the top-seeded Tar Heels.

The teams have split four previous meetings in the NCAA tournament – all of them in the national semifinals or championship game. Both teams survived upset scares in the Sweet 16 on Friday, as North Carolina outlasted Ohio in overtime and Kansas held off a late charge from N.C. State.

TV: 5:05 p.m., CBS

ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA (32-5): The Tar Heels were not themselves against Ohio – the offense was out of sync without point guard Kendall Marshall (wrist), and star Harrison Barnes endured a difficult shooting night. North Carolina was able to use its size advantage to dominate the boards, and center Tyler Zeller scored 20 points and grabbed a career-high 23 rebounds. But the Tar Heels won’t find such a mismatch inside against the Jayhawks, who boast a formidable post duo in National Player of the Year finalist Thomas Robinson and 7-foot center Jeff Withey.

ABOUT KANSAS (30-6): The Jayhawks notched their 30th win for the third straight season with the 60-57 win over N.C. State, advancing to the Elite Eight for the second year in a row and the fifth time in nine seasons under Bill Self. Kansas’ path has not been an easy one, though. The Jayhawks got off to slow starts before rallying to beat No. 10 seed Purdue and the 11th-seeded Wolfpack, and they squandered an eight-point lead with less than four minutes left before holding on against N.C. State. Robinson had another big game Friday with 18 points and 15 rebounds for his school-record 26th double-double of the season and his 24th consecutive game scoring in double digits.

TRENDS:

* Jayhawks are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 vs. Atlantic Coast.
* Tar Heels are 1-6 ATS in their last seven neutral-site games as underdogs.
* Under is 16-5 in Jayhawks' last 21 non-conference games.
* Under is 4-1 in Tar Heels last five NCAA tournament games.

TIP-INS:

1. Kansas (2,068) and North Carolina (2,065) rank second and third in all-time victories behind Kentucky (2,087).

2. North Carolina is 18-7 all-time in the regional finals and is trying to advance to the Final Four for the 10th time since 1988.

3. Withey’s 10 blocks Friday matched a Kansas record and moved him into first on the school’s single-season blocks list with 126.

Pick: North Carolina

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 25

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NCAA previews & picks: Kentucky vs. Baylor
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No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 3 Baylor Bears (+7.5, 136)

THE STORY: The Wildcats extracted some sweet revenge in the Sweet 16, and now take aim at the program’s 15th trip to the Final Four. To get there, Kentucky will have to contend with a Baylor team that has won eight of its past 10 games and is in its second regional final in the past three seasons.

The Wildcats beat Indiana, who handed Kentucky its only regular-season loss in December, 102-90 in the regional semifinals on Friday as five Wildcats scored in double figures. The Bears face their stiffest challenge so far in the NCAA, having beaten a 14th seed, an 11th seed and a 10th seed in their first three games. Baylor won its first 17 games this season, and five of its seven losses have come to teams ranked in the Top 10. The Bears beat Xavier in the regional semifinals 75-70.

TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, Georgia Dome, CBS.

ABOUT BAYLOR (30-7): In nine seasons as head coach, Scott Drew has resurrected a program rocked by the murder of Patrick Dennehy and harsh NCAA violations. The Bears are fluid and dangerous in the open court, but have a disturbing tendency to play loose with big leads. Senior forward Quincy Acy can dominate inside (as he did against Xavier with 20 points and 15 rebounds), but will be challenged by Kentucky’s athletic frontcourt.

The Bears are one of the more accurate 3-point shooting teams in the nation, ranking 22nd nationally (38.6 percent). Freshman guard Brady Heslip leads the outside assault, hitting 45.6 percent of his attempts beyond the arc (sixth in the nation). But Heslip hit just one 3-pointer against Xavier. A hot day from the outside and the ability to push the tempo could give the Bears a puncher’s chance at derailing Kentucky’s express to New Orleans.

ABOUT KENTUCKY (35-2): Even with national Player of the Year favorite, Anthony Davis, saddled by foul trouble Friday, the Wildcats led most of the way. Kentucky has overwhelmed most of its opposition with a tremendous balance of strong guard play, a dominant frontcourt and excellent interior defense.

Keeping the freshman Davis – the nation’s leading shot blocker – on the floor is critical against the Bears. The Wildcats have six players who can shoulder the scoring load, making defending Kentucky a daunting proposition. Forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist took the lead on Friday, tying a season-high with 24 points. With its defense controlling the backboard and multiple options on offense, Kentucky is the favorite to continue its march to coach John Calipari’s first national championship.

TRENDS:

* Bears are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 neutral site games as underdogs.
* Wildcats are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 NCAA tournament games as favorites.
* Over is 6-1 in Bears' last seven overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Wildcats' last five overall.

TIP-INS:

1. Sunday’s winner faces either Louisville or Florida in the national semifinals next Saturday.

2. Baylor and Kentucky have met once before in the NCAA tournament, the Wildcats beating the Bears in the 1948 national championship game, 58-42.

3. Kentucky ranks 79th in the nation in free-throw percentage (71.9 percent), but shot 35-for-37 (94.6 percent) from the line against Indiana. That’s the most free throws made in a NCAA tournament game since 2007.

Pick: Baylor

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 25

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Where the action is: UK-Baylor total unfairly inflated?
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The last two Final Four contestants will punch their ticket to New Orleans Sunday when the South and Midwest Regions conclude. But before the final horn sounds, bettors will have their way with the odds from these Elite Eight matchups.

We talked to Mike Colbert, race and sportsbook director for Cantor Gaming in Nevada, about where the early action is for Sunday’s two games – Kentucky vs. Baylor and Kansas vs. North Carolina.

No. 1 Kentucky Wildcats vs. No. 3 Baylor Bears – Open: UK -7.5 Move: UK -8

The Wildcats opened as sizable favorites against the No. 3 Bears after a 102-90 shootout with Indiana in the Sweet 16. The public jumped on Kentucky after that offensive display and has pushed the spread to -8.

“Baylor is long and good inside and they rebound well, which will help against Kentucky,” said Colbert. “But Kentucky is more skilled and will eventually wear them down.”

As for the total, the number opened at 148 and has drawn some early bets on the over. Colbert isn’t sold on the opening total but respects the action coming in on the over.

“Kentucky is probably the best defensive team in the country and Baylor isn’t bad either,” he says. “I think that 148 is bit inflated after last night’s game. Both these teams play good defense. I think it should’ve opened around 146, but they’re betting the over.”

No. 1 North Carolina Tar Heels vs. No. 2 Kansas Jayhawks – Open: KU -2 Move: KU -2.5

Cantor Gaming opened Kansas as a 2-point favorite and has held steady at that spread while other books have jumped half a point. Colbert is a bit surprised that the Jayhawks were posted as the favorites versus the No. 1 Tar Heels and says Friday’s overtime thriller with Ohio is the cause.

“It really got made from (Friday’s) game,” he says. “I would have said North Carolina -2 or maybe, after that game, a pick’em. This is a surprising one.”

Colbert also takes notes that the Midwest Region final takes place in St. Louis, which should make for a pro-Jayhawks crowd, and that UNC point guard Kendall Marshall is still a question mark with a wrist injury.

“I don’t think he’s going to play,” says Colbert. “It’s something we are monitoring very closely heading into this one.”

The total opened at 144 points and has dropped half a point to 143.5. Cantor has taken a small amount of the money on the under but hasn’t received any sharp money on the over/under as of Saturday afternoon.

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**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:26 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Nashville at Chicago
The Blackhawks look to take advantage of a Nashville team that is 1-6 in its last 7 games as a road underdog. Chicago is the pick (-145) according to Dunkel, which has the Blackhawks favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-145). Here are all of today's picks.

SUNDAY, MARCH 25

Game 51-52: Edmonton at Columbus (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Edmonton 11.648; Columbus 12.619
Dunkel Line & Total: Columbus by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Edmonton (-120); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Columbus (+100); Under

Game 53-54: Minnesota at Washington (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 10.608; Washington 10.936
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Washington (-200); 5
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-200); Under

Game 55-56: NY Islanders at Florida (5:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Islanders 12.201; Florida 11.323
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 1; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Florida (-170); 5
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (+150); Under

Game 57-58: New Jersey at Pittsburgh (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 10.849; Pittsburgh 12.279
Dunkel Line & Total: Pittsburgh by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Pittsburgh (-190); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-190); Over

Game 59-60: Nashville at Chicago (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Nashville 11.165; Chicago 12.395
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 1; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-145); Over

Game 61-62: Boston at Anaheim (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 10.825; Anaheim 12.534
Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 1 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 63-64: St. Louis at Phoenix (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 11.549; Phoenix 11.060
Dunkel Line & Total: St. Louis by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-125); 5
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-125); Under

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:29 AM

NHL
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 25

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

EDMONTON (30-36-0-9, 69 pts.) at COLUMBUS (24-43-0-7, 55 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 3:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
EDMONTON is 54-102 ATS (+198.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
EDMONTON is 1-12 ATS (+16.8 Units) after playing 3 consecutive road games this season.
EDMONTON is 11-23 ATS (+34.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
EDMONTON is 14-36 ATS (+62.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 57-98 ATS (+201.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 22-36 ATS (+65.9 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5.5 over the last 2 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 4-13 ATS (-9.4 Units) in home games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLUMBUS is 6-5 (+0.4 Units) against the spread versus EDMONTON over the last 3 seasons
COLUMBUS is 6-5-0 straight up against EDMONTON over the last 3 seasons
8 of 11 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+4.8 Units)

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MINNESOTA (31-33-0-10, 72 pts.) at WASHINGTON (37-30-0-8, 82 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 11-22 ATS (+34.4 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MINNESOTA is 10-23 ATS (+35.0 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 29-8 ATS (+13.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 139-124 ATS (+269.6 Units) after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game since 1996.
MINNESOTA is 50-45 ATS (+106.0 Units) in road games after a non-conference game since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 22-26 ATS (-18.7 Units) after a division game over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 115-161 ATS (-64.1 Units) in non-conference games since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 1-1 (+0.0 Units) against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 1-1-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+2.0 Units)

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NY ISLANDERS (30-33-0-11, 71 pts.) at FLORIDA (36-24-0-14, 86 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 5:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY ISLANDERS are 29-60 ATS (+109.3 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 79-116 ATS (+209.7 Units) in a home game where where the total is 5 or less since 1996.
FLORIDA is 260-297 ATS (+599.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
FLORIDA is 129-164 ATS (-68.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1996.
FLORIDA is 30-52 ATS (-28.1 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 5-15 ATS (-13.1 Units) in home games after 3 or more consecutive unders over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
FLORIDA is 8-3 (+5.3 Units) against the spread versus NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
FLORIDA is 8-3-0 straight up against NY ISLANDERS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+2.2 Units)

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NEW JERSEY (42-27-0-6, 90 pts.) at PITTSBURGH (46-22-0-6, 98 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 14-2 ATS (+11.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.
NEW JERSEY is 42-32 ATS (+8.3 Units) in all games this season.
NEW JERSEY is 19-12 ATS (+31.7 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
NEW JERSEY is 12-9 ATS (+24.1 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NEW JERSEY is 9-4 ATS (+13.6 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 this season.
NEW JERSEY is 49-34 ATS (+6.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 3-9 ATS (-9.2 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.
PITTSBURGH is 24-33 ATS (-40.2 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW JERSEY is 11-6 (+6.3 Units) against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY is 11-6-0 straight up against PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
11 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+6.4 Units)

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NASHVILLE (43-24-0-8, 94 pts.) at CHICAGO (42-25-0-8, 92 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 307-327 ATS (-81.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.
NASHVILLE is 42-32 ATS (+4.3 Units) in all games this season.
NASHVILLE is 14-8 ATS (+24.3 Units) in road games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 33-34 ATS (+82.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 55-39 ATS (+11.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NASHVILLE is 14-6 ATS (+7.2 Units) vs. division opponents this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NASHVILLE is 10-12 (+1.7 Units) against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 12-10-0 straight up against NASHVILLE over the last 3 seasons
12 of 19 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+4.4 Units)

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BOSTON (43-28-0-3, 89 pts.) at ANAHEIM (32-32-0-11, 75 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ANAHEIM is 3-0 (+4.1 Units) against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
ANAHEIM is 3-0-0 straight up against BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.0 Units)

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ST LOUIS (46-20-0-9, 101 pts.) at PHOENIX (37-26-0-13, 87 pts.) - 3/25/2012, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 132-118 ATS (-22.1 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 23-19 ATS (+2.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
PHOENIX is 12-5 ATS (+6.4 Units) on Sunday games over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 14-6 ATS (+7.8 Units) after a division game this season.
ST LOUIS is 46-29 ATS (+6.5 Units) in all games this season.
ST LOUIS is 23-7 ATS (+11.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHOENIX is 5-5-0 straight up against ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.0 Units)

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

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:31 AM

NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 25

Hot teams
-- Oilers won six of their last nine road games.
-- Panthers won five of their last six home games.
-- Penguins won their last nine home games.
-- Blackhawks won their last five games, allowing eight goals.
-- Anaheim won six of its last nine home games. Bruins won three of their last four games overall.

Cold teams
-- Blue Jackets lost five of their last seven games.
-- Washington lost four of its last five games overall. Minnesota lost five of its last six road games.
-- Islanders lost six of their last eight games.
-- Devils lost three of their last four games.
-- Predators lost eight of their last twelve road games.
-- Phoenix is 4-9 in its last 13 games. Blues lost four of their last five games.

Totals
-- Seven of last eight Edmonton games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 3-1-1 in last five Minnesota games.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in Islanders' last six games.
-- Four of last five New Jersey road games stayed under.
-- Five of last seven Chicago road games stayed under total.
-- Seven of last eight Boston road games went over the total.
-- Six of last eight St Louis road games stayed under the total.

Series records
-- Oilers won three of their last four games with Columbus.
-- Minnesota won three of its last four games with Washington.
-- Islanders lost six of last seven games with Florida.
-- Devils won three of last four games against Pittsburgh.
-- Predators won their last three games against Chicago.
-- Ducks won their last three games against Boston.
-- Blues lost seven of last ten visits to Phoenix.

Back-to-Back
-- Minnesota is 1-3 on road if it played the night before.
-- Islanders are 4-7 if they played the night before.
-- Penguins are 4-1 at home if they played the night before.
-- Nashville is 1-4 on road if it won the night before.
-- Bruins are 1-3 on road if they won the night before.
-- Phoenix is 2-4 if it lost the night before.

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:34 AM

NHL

Sunday, March 25

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

3:00 PM
EDMONTON vs. COLUMBUS
Edmonton is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Columbus
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Edmonton's last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Columbus's last 6 games when playing Edmonton
Columbus is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games

5:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. WASHINGTON
Minnesota is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Minnesota is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
Washington is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Minnesota
Washington is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

5:00 PM
NY ISLANDERS vs. FLORIDA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the NY Islanders last 5 games on the road
NY Islanders are 2-6 SU in their last 8 games
Florida is 6-2 SU in their last 8 games when playing NY Islanders
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Florida's last 9 games

7:00 PM
NEW JERSEY vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Jersey's last 5 games on the road
New Jersey is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Pittsburgh's last 15 games at home
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against New Jersey

7:30 PM
NASHVILLE vs. CHICAGO
Nashville is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Nashville is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games on the road
Chicago is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Nashville
Chicago is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

8:00 PM
BOSTON vs. ANAHEIM
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Boston's last 8 games on the road
Boston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Anaheim
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Anaheim's last 7 games when playing Boston
Anaheim is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Boston

9:00 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. PHOENIX
St. Louis is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games
St. Louis is 7-13-1 SU in its last 21 games ,when playing on the road against Phoenix
Phoenix is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games
Phoenix is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

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**jt4545** · 03-25-2012, 08:34 AM

Thanks again for the write ups

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:36 AM

Originally posted by jt4545 View Post

Thanks again for the write ups

Good morning jt!

I sure hope you've fared better than me the last couple of days. I've gotten my ass kicked for two days!

Good luck today!

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:38 AM

NHL

Sunday, March 25

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

New Jersey Devils at Pittsburgh Penguins (-187, 5.5)

It's safe to say the Penguins on fire. In fact, saying that would be an understatement.

They have taken points in 14 consecutive games and have won 13 of those contests. Sidney Crosby and company continued the hot streak on Thursday with a 5-1 blowout of Nashville.

The Pens are enjoying an absolute offensive eruption. They have scored 13 goals in their past two outings, as the win over Nashville was preceded by an 8-4 drubbing of Winnipeg. Pittsburgh has lit the lamp a ridiculous 30 times in its last six games.

Crosby has not scored since his return from concussion-like symptoms, but he is still an integral part of the offense. He has tallied nine assists in just five games since taking the ice on March 15. Crosby assisted on four scores in the rout of Winnipeg.

"It's much easier when the team is playing as well as we are," Crosby said of his return. "You always work hard and prepare, get ready to come back. There are still areas where I need to get sharper, but with everyone playing it makes it easier for anyone coming back."

Pick: Penguins

Nashville Predators at Chicago Blackhawks (-137, 5.5)

The trends do not look good for Nashville heading into a Sunday showdown against Chicago. The Predators have lost four of their last five overall and they have surrendered a whopping 11 goals in their last two. The Blackhawks are on a five-game winning streak and have scored 20 goals in those five.

Marian Hossa, who tallied his 900th career point in a Tuesday win over Columbus, has recorded at least one point in seven consecutive outings (two goals, eight assists).

''We're feeling good right now,'' said Duncan Keith, who has been suspended for the next five games stemming from a hit against Vancouver. ''The one thing we've learned is we're not going to take anything for granted. We're playing better but we know there's still more there that we have to get better at."

The Predators have won three in a row this season in the head-to-head series, but this one could go along the lines of the first of four previous matchups between the two teams. Chicago notched four goals in regulation then scored the game-winner in overtime for a 5-4 victory on October 31.

Pick: Blackhawks

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

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:53 AM

NBA
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 25

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

PHOENIX (24 - 24) at CLEVELAND (17 - 28) - 3/25/2012, 3:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 21-38 ATS (-20.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 44-26 ATS (+15.4 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 200 and 204.5 points since 1996.
PHOENIX is 62-38 ATS (+20.2 Units) second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in March games this season.
PHOENIX is 65-40 ATS (+21.0 Units) after allowing 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 24-10 ATS (+13.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 45-63 ATS (-24.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

DENVER (26 - 22) at MINNESOTA (23 - 26) - 3/25/2012, 3:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 4-4 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 8-1 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

UTAH (26 - 22) at ATLANTA (29 - 20) - 3/25/2012, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
UTAH is 45-28 ATS (+14.2 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 15-29 ATS (-16.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

WASHINGTON (11 - 36) at BOSTON (25 - 22) - 3/25/2012, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 18-28 ATS (-12.8 Units) in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 40-65 ATS (-31.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 23-41 ATS (-22.1 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 138-177 ATS (-56.7 Units) when playing on back-to-back days since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) against Atlantic division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 65-86 ATS (-29.6 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 23-35 ATS (-15.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 60-74 ATS (-21.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 40-56 ATS (-21.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 41-61 ATS (-26.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 37-54 ATS (-22.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 6-5 against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 8-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

PHILADELPHIA (27 - 21) at SAN ANTONIO (32 - 14) - 3/25/2012, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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MIAMI (35 - 11) at OKLAHOMA CITY (36 - 12) - 3/25/2012, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 128-104 ATS (+13.6 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) against Southeast division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 46-26 ATS (+17.4 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) in road games after allowing 85 points or less over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 12-26 ATS (-16.6 Units) on Sunday games over the last 3 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) after scoring 105 points or more this season.

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

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

GOLDEN STATE (20 - 26) at PORTLAND (22 - 26) - 3/25/2012, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GOLDEN STATE is 60-88 ATS (-36.8 Units) as a road underdog of 6.5 to 9 points since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
GOLDEN STATE is 8-2 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 6-4 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

MEMPHIS (25 - 21) at LA LAKERS (30 - 18) - 3/25/2012, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA LAKERS are 107-67 ATS (+33.3 Units) after 3 or more consecutive overs since 1996.
MEMPHIS is 80-59 ATS (+15.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 38-24 ATS (+11.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 25-6 ATS (+18.4 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 39-26 ATS (+10.4 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 62-77 ATS (-22.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA LAKERS are 16-31 ATS (-18.1 Units) in home games second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA LAKERS is 5-4 against the spread versus MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
LA LAKERS is 6-3 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

**Udog** · 03-25-2012, 08:55 AM

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 25

Hot Teams
-- Suns covered 13 of their last 17 games.
-- Hawks won five of their last six games; they're 3-7 in last ten games as a home favorite. Utah won its last six games (5-1 vs spread).
-- Washington covered six of last seven games, losing last two by total of five points. Celtics won last five home games, covered last four.
-- Spurs won/covered their last four home games.
-- Miami won its last four games, covering three of them. Thunder won its last three home games, winning by 16-23-9 points.
-- Warriors covered five of their last six road games.
-- Lakers won seven of last nine games (1-5 vs spread last six at home).

Cold Teams
-- Cavaliers lost five of their last six games.
-- Nuggets lost five of last seven road games; they're 0-6-1 vs spread in last seven games overall. Minnesota lost seven of its last nine games.
-- 76ers are 3-7-1 vs spread as a road underdog.
-- Portland lost ten of its last fourteen games.
-- Grizzlies lost five of their last six games (0-6 vs spread).

Wear-and-Tear
-- Suns: 8th game/12 days. Cavaliers: 3rd game/5 nites.
-- Nuggets: 3rd game/5 nites. T'wolves: 3rd game/5 nites.
-- Jazz: 8th game/12 nites. Hawks: 3rd in row, 6th game/8 nites.
-- Wizards: 4th game/5 nites. Celtics: 3rd game/4 nites.
-- 76ers: 3rd game/5 nites. Spurs: 3rd nite in a row.
-- Heat: 2nd game/5 nites. Thunder: 7th game/11 nites.
-- Warriors: 11th game/16 nites. Blazers: 3rd game/4 nites.
-- Grizzlies: 3rd game/4 nites. Lakers: 3rd game/4 nites.

Totals
-- Five of last six Phoenix road games went over the total.
-- Last three Denver games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Atlanta home games stayed under total.
-- Last six Washington games stayed under the total.
-- Four of Philly's last five road games went over total.
-- Thunder's last six home games went over the total. Last four Miami games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Golden State road games stayed under.
-- Four of last five Memphis road games stayed under total.

Back-to-Back
-- Hawks are 6-1 vs spread at home if they played night before.
-- Wizards are 1-3 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Spurs are 4-7-1 vs spread if they played the night before.
-- Warriors are 6-2 vs spread on road if they played nite before.

Announcement

Sunday's Trends and Indexes - 3/25 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

Sunday's Trends and Indexes - 3/25 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

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