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**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:18 AM

Armadillo: Monday's six-pack

-- This time last year, Orioles had 17 less wins, but scored only seven less runs; they've allowed 82 runs less this year than at this time LY.

-- 31 of the 89 players on the St Louis Rams' roster are rookies.

-- NFL Media Guide doesn't list Rams as having a defensive coordinator; its only the first exhibtion game, but the defense looked uncoordinated in their 38-3 loss at Indianapolis Sunday. Gregg Williams was supposed to be the coordinator, but he is suspended because of BountyGate.

-- UCLA's starting QB hasn't lasted past Game 5 of a season since '05.

-- Olympics ended with USA winning 46 gold medals, China 38. Canada won 18 medals, but only one gold medal.

-- If the baseball playoffs started Monday, they'd look like this:
AL: Texas-White Sox-Bronx. WC: Tampa Bay-Baltimore
NL: Giants-Cincinnati-Washington. WC: Pittsburgh-Atlanta

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Armadillo: Monday's List of 13: Wrapping up a week in the summer.......

13) Every year, when the last undefeated team in the NFL gets beat, former Miami Dolphins celebrate by popping some champagne, since the '72 Fish were the last unbeaten NFL team.

I wonder if Jack Nicklaus does same thing now, every time Eldrick Woods doesn't win a major, keeping him four away (18-14) from the Golden Bear's record for most majors won?

12) National media will always love the Cowboys; they're on TV tonight in Oakland, then on NFL Network Saturday night at San Diego. Terrific.

11) Baltimore is 22-6 in 1-run games this season, really a remarkable job by Buck Showalter. As good a job as Melvin-Ventura-Maddon are doing this year running their ballclubs, Showalter is doing it with less pitching. Makes it harder.

10) A club pro from Ohio shot 93 at Kiawah Friday, in second round of the PGA; I know he's not a touring pro, but he is a pro. 93???? Damn.

9) Rory McIlroy and Rex Ryan are two of those people who look an awful lot different with a hat on. McIlroy's hair looks like Larry's from the Three Stooges, or the Irish Oscar Gamble (obscure 70's Afro reference).

8) Its a rule that major league teams have to have a scheduled day off every 21 days. Thats why makeup games can be tricky to reschedule.

7) Bud Norris is Astros' best pitcher, but they've lost his last 11 starts; in his last three outings, he allowed only two runs in innings 1-5, but fell apart after that. I think he'd be a big winner on a good team.

6) ESPN must think they've got a Madden-like TV star in Jon Gruden, since they dumped Ron Jaworski from Monday Night Football telecasts. Will be interesting to hear how different the broadcasts are with two guys.

5) Odd Fact of the Day: Adam Dunn is the only lefty hitter this season to homer off Francisco Liriano; he was also the last out in Liriano's no-hitter last year. Dunn and Liriano are now teammates with the White Sox.

4) Times flies; this is the Falcons' 21st season playing in Georgia Dome. Its already the 10th-oldest stadium in the NFL.

3) I'm torn on the Little League World Series being shown on TV; on one hand, its cool to see little kids playing for the fun of it, but you do not want the highlight of someone's life coming when they're 12 years old. At some point, you wonder if its all too much, too soon.

2) CBSSports.com took a survey of college hoop coaches this summer on a variety of stuff; they asked which coaches cheat the most. 3% actually said UNLV's Dave Rice, which is odd, since Shabazz Muhammad is going to UCLA, even though he is from Vegas and played for Rice's brother at Bishop Gorman HS.

Actually, if I was an AD and my coach's name wasn't on that list, I'd be a little bit alarmed. People get bitter when they get out-recruited; those are the names on that list, guys who out-recruit their opponents.

Just for record, Calipari/Scott Drew were the Affirmed/Alydar of this poll, with Ben Howland a distant third.

1) If my mother was still alive, today would've been my parents' 57th wedding anniversary. I'm lucky guy for many reasons; having really good parents is near the top of the list. If your parents are still around, call 'em up and thank them today.

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:19 AM

What bettors need to know: Cowboys at Raiders

Dallas Cowboys at Oakland Raiders (-1, 34.5)

Reggie McKenzie’s first move was hiring Dennis Allen as the Raiders new head coach. Allen, who was the defensive coordinator with Denver last year, inherits a deep but undisciplined front line, one that surrendered a whopping 5.1 yards per rush last season for new defensive coordinator Jason Tarver. Oakland is set on improving and tinkering with its rush defense this preseason.

With Taiwan Jones and Mike Goodson out with injuries, halfback Lonyae Miller has seen an increase in snaps this training camp. Expect Miller to take the majority of the carries on Monday night.

First-string quarterback Carson Palmer and No. 1 running back Darren McFadden are likely to see limited time in the preseason opener. New backup quarterback Matt Leinart should see a significant amount of snaps.

The Cowboys are plagued with injuries.

David Arkin had never snapped the ball for the Dallas Cowboys before getting to training camp two weeks ago but could be snapping for Tony Romo on Monday.

Starting center Phil Costa missed practice Saturday because of a lower back injury and is doubtful against the Raiders. Wide receiver Dez Bryant left practice early Saturday because of hamstring tightness and will be a game-time decision.

Rookie cornerback Morris Claiborne returned to practice Saturday after missing a week with a sprained left knee. He isn't expected to play against the Raiders.

Starters like Romo are only likely to play one series or perhaps up to one quarter.

NFL Preseason Week 1 Dunkel

MONDAY, AUGUST 13

Game 281-282: Dallas at Oakland (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 119.351; Oakland 123.163
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 4; 38
Vegas Line: Oakland by 1 1/2; 35
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (-1 1/2); Over

NFL Preseason Betting Trends for Monday, August 13, 2012

Dallas at Oakland, 8:00 ET ESPN
Dallas: 10-19 ATS vs. AFC West opponents
Oakland: 4-0 Over in home games

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:20 AM

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Monday, August 13

Hot pitchers
-- Karstens is 4-0, 2.80 in his last seven starts.
-- Minor has a 1.99 RA in his last five starts.
-- Hamels is 1-1, 1.69 in his last couple starts.
-- Samardzija is 2-2, 2.59 in his last five starts.
-- Fiers is 5-2, 1.19 in his last nine starts.
-- Vogelsong is 3-1, 2.25 in his last five starts.

-- Phelps is 0-1, 2.07 in three starts, but hasn't finished fifth inning in any of the three games.
-- Minnesota won last five Deduno starts (3-0, 2.31 in last four).
-- Beavan is 4-0, 3.67 in his last five starts. Cobb is 2-0, 1.29 in his last two.

Cold pitchers
-- Harang is 0-2, 5.89 in his last three starts.
-- Stults is 1-2, 5.00 in his last three starts.
-- Eovaldi has a 5.11 RA in his first three starts for Miami.
-- Galarraga is 0-2, 5.87 in three starts for the Astros.
-- Francis is 0-2, 10.80 in his last three starts.
-- GGonzalez is 2-3, 4.81 in his last six starts.

-- Dempster has a 9.00 RA in two starts for Texas, but Rangers won both games, scoring 21 runs.
-- Villanueva is 2-2, 4.63 in his last four starts. Peavy is 2-3, 4.41 in his last five starts.
-- ASanchez is 1-2, 8.40 in three starts for Detroit.
-- Wilson is 0-3, 8.19 in his last five starts. Masterson is 1-2, 10.26 in his last three starts.

Hot Teams
-- Dodgers won nine of their last thirteen road games.
-- Padres won six of their last seven games. Braves won 14 of 18.
-- Washington won 19 of its last 23 games. Giants won seven of ten.

-- Rangers/Bronx both won four of their last five games.
-- Indians won three of their last four games.
-- Tampa Bay won 11 of its last 14 games.

Cold Teams
-- Pirates lost four of their last six games.
-- Miami lost 17 of its last 25 games. Phillies lost five of last seven on road.
-- Astros lost 35 of their last 40 games. Cubs lost ten of their last twelve.
-- Brewers lost 11 of their last 12 road games. Colorado lost 14 of its last 19 games overall.

-- Blue Jays lost eleven of their last fourteen games overall; White Sox lost seven of their last eleven road games.
-- Tigers lost four of their last five games. Minnesota lost its last five home games.
-- Angels lost eight of their last eleven games.
-- Mariners lost five of their last seven games.

Totals
-- Over is 8-4-1 in last thirteen Dodger road games.
-- 13 of last 18 San Diego games went over the total.
-- Over is 3-1-1 in Miami's last five games.
-- Under is 13-5-1 in last nineteen games at Wrigley Field.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six games at Coors Field.
-- Over is 7-3-1 in last eleven San Francisco games.

-- Five of last seven Bronx games went over the total.
-- Five of last seven Toronto games went over the total.
-- Under is 3-1-1 in Detroit's last five road games.
-- Four of last five Cleveland games stayed under total.
-- 16 of last 22 Tampa Bay games stayed under total.

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:20 AM

MLB

Monday, August 13

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Trend Report
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7:05 PM
TEXAS vs. NY YANKEES
Texas is 3-8 SU in their last 11 games when playing NY Yankees
Texas is 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against NY Yankees
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Yankees's last 7 games
NY Yankees are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games when playing Texas

7:05 PM
LA DODGERS vs. PITTSBURGH
LA Dodgers are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games
LA Dodgers are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games
Pittsburgh is 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing LA Dodgers

7:07 PM
CHI WHITE SOX vs. TORONTO
Chi White Sox are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox
Toronto is 15-3 SU in their last 18 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox

7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. MIAMI
Philadelphia is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Philadelphia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Miami
Miami is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
Miami is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games

7:10 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of San Diego's last 18 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
San Diego is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Atlanta's last 18 games when playing at home against San Diego
Atlanta is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games when playing at home against San Diego

8:05 PM
HOUSTON vs. CHI CUBS
Houston is 4-21 SU in its last 25 games
Houston is 1-8 SU in their last 9 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs
Chi Cubs are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 5 games when playing Houston

8:10 PM
DETROIT vs. MINNESOTA
Detroit is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Minnesota
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Detroit
Minnesota is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games

8:40 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. COLORADO
Milwaukee is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Colorado is 6-17 SU in its last 23 games
Colorado is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games at home

10:05 PM
CLEVELAND vs. LA ANGELS
Cleveland is 3-13 SU in its last 16 games
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
LA Angels are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games at home
LA Angels are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland

10:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of Tampa Bay's last 22 games
Tampa Bay is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Seattle is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games when playing Tampa Bay
Seattle is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

10:15 PM
WASHINGTON vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Washington is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Washington is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games on the road
San Francisco is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington
San Francisco is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games

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**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:21 AM

MLB

Monday, August 13

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Monday's streaking and slumping starting pitchers
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STREAKING

Mike Fiers, Milwaukee Brewers (6-4, 1.80 ERA)

Fiers is in the midst of a breakout season with a 6-4 record, 1.80 ERA while averaging a strikeout per inning at the big league level. He’s won three consecutive starts, only allowing three earned runs during that stretch. His next start is on the road at Coors Field in Colorado.

Alex Cobb, Tampa Bay Rays (6-8, 4.32 ERA)

Cobb struck out seven batters and only allowed one run over seven innings Wednesday against Toronto to pick up his sixth win of the year. This was Cobb's third consecutive quality after netting only one in his previous five outings. He has posted back-to-back wins, only squandering two earned runs during that stretch. He toes the rubber in Seattle next time out.

SLUMPING

C.J. Wilson, Los Angeles Angels (9-8, 3.34 ERA)

Wilson struggled through five innings against the Athletics Tuesday, allowing 14 hitters to reach base. It was Wilson’s second sub-par outing in a row, both against division rivals. The lefty has surrendered 11 earned runs in his last two starts. His next start is at home versus the Indians.

Jeff Francis, Colorado Rockies (3-4, 6.06 ERA)

Francis allowed three runs over four innings during Wednesday's 6-4 loss to the Dodgers. The southpaw has been lit up for 14 earned runs in last three starts and hasn’t survived past the fourth inning in each of those outings. He takes the hill at home against the Brewers next.

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**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 07:22 AM

MLB

Monday, August 13

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Rounding the bases: The best bets in the bigs
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Every week we take a look at the hottest and coldest teams as well as the best over and under bets in Major League Baseball.

Hot team: Tampa Bay Rays

Last week: 6-0
Season record: 62-52
Upcoming schedule: at Mariners, at Angels

Skinny: The Rays completed a three-game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays at home and then travelled to Minnesota and took all three games of a weekend series with the Twins. Tampa Bay continues its 10-game road trip Monday in Seattle.

Cold team: Chicago Cubs

Last week: 1-6
Season record: 44-69
Upcoming schedule: vs. Astros, at Reds

Skinny: The Cubs were swept by the lowly Padres and dropped three of four to the Reds last week. Chicago has just one win in its last 12 games overall.

Over team: Arizona Diamondbacks

Last week: 6-1-0
Season O/U record: 55-55-5
Upcoming schedule: at Cardinals, at Astros

Skinny: The Diamondbacks have gone over the total in six straight games. The D-Backs scored six or more runs in each of their three wins last week and suffered a few defeats in high scoring fashion. The Arizona offense ranks third in runs scored in the NL.

Under team: Kansas City Royals

Last week: 5-2-0
Season O/U record: 51-60-3
Upcoming schedule: vs. Athletics, vs. White Sox

Skinny: The Royals had three low scoring affairs against the White Sox last week that tipped the scales in favor of the under. Kansas City continues to struggle offensively this season, ranking 11th in runs scored in the AL.

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**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 08:48 AM

MLB
Dunkel

LA Dodgers at Pittsburgh
The Pirates look to take advantage of a Dodgers team that is 1-4 in Aaron Harang's last 5 starts. Pittsburgh is the pick (-120) according to Dunkel, which has the Pirates favored by 1/2 a run. Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-120). Here are all of today's picks.

MONDAY, AUGUST 13

Game 901-902: LA Dodgers at Pittsburgh (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Dodgers (Harang) 15.038; Pittsburgh (Karstens) 15.593
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1/2; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh (-120); 8
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-120); Over

Game 903-904: San Diego at Atlanta (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Stults) 15.568; Atlanta (Minor) 14.303
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1; 7
Vegas Line: Atlanta (-185); 8
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (+165); Under

Game 905-906: Philadelphia at Miami (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Hamels) 15.736; Miami (Eovaldi) 13.815
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 2; 8
Vegas Line: Philadelphia (-145); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-145); Over

Game 907-908: Houston at Chicago Cubs (8:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston (Galarraga) 14.884; Cubs (Samardzija) 13.680
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Chicago Cubs (-200); No Run Total
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+170); N/A

Game 909-910: Milwaukee at Colorado (8:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Fiers) 13.875; Colorado (Francis) 15.088
Dunkel Line: Colorado by 1; 11
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-145); 10
Dunkel Pick: Colorado (+125); Over

Game 911-912: Washington at San Francisco (10:15 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington (Gonzalez) 15.886; San Francisco (Vogelsong) 16.855
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1; 5 1/2
Vegas Line: San Francisco (-125); 6 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (-125); Under

Game 913-914: Texas at NY Yankees (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Dempster) 15.795; NY Yankees (Phelps) 16.180
Dunkel Line: NY Yankees by 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 915-916: Chicago White Sox at Toronto (7:07 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: White Sox (Peavy) 15.413; Toronto (Villanueva) 15.051
Dunkel Line: Chicago White Sox by 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Chicago White Sox (-140); 8
Dunkel Pick: Chicago White Sox (-140); Under

Game 917-918: Detroit at Minnesota (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Sanchez) 16.071; Minnesota (Deduno) 15.353
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Detroit (-140); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-140); Over

Game 919-920: Cleveland at LA Angels (10:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Masterson) 13.347; LA Angels (Wilson) 14.275
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 1; 7
Vegas Line: LA Angels (-185); 8
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+165); Under

Game 921-922: Tampa Bay at Seattle (10:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay (Cobb) 17.059; Seattle (Beavan) 15.529
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-140); 7
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-140); Over

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 09:34 AM

MLB
Long Sheet

Monday, August 13

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LA DODGERS (62 - 53) at PITTSBURGH (64 - 50) - 7:05 PM
AARON HARANG (R) vs. JEFF KARSTENS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HARANG is 13-29 (-18.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday since 1997. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 36-20 (+13.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 64-50 (+21.6 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 21-12 (+14.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 63-50 (+18.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PITTSBURGH is 459-431 (+57.3 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 45-37 (+13.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
PITTSBURGH is 33-29 (+6.3 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
PITTSBURGH is 310-326 (+43.2 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 63-50 (+18.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 25-13 (+13.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
LA DODGERS are 36-25 (+11.3 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
HARANG is 69-66 (+21.5 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997. (Team's Record)
HARANG is 15-7 (+12.5 Units) against the money line in road games in August games since 1997. (Team's Record)
HARANG is 35-24 (+22.3 Units) against the money line in road games after a win since 1997. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 13-28 (-13.9 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 3-0 (+3.0 Units) against PITTSBURGH this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)

AARON HARANG vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
HARANG is 14-6 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 4.28 and a WHIP of 1.226.
His team's record is 15-9 (+3.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 11-11. (-0.9 units)

JEFF KARSTENS vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
KARSTENS is 0-3 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 4.94 and a WHIP of 1.817.
His team's record is 2-3 (-0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.3 units)

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SAN DIEGO (51 - 65) at ATLANTA (66 - 48) - 7:10 PM
ERIC STULTS (L) vs. MIKE MINOR (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 39-70 (-20.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 73-110 (-30.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 34-56 (-19.8 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 66-48 (+12.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 64-47 (+11.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ATLANTA is 47-33 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
ATLANTA is 18-5 (+11.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
SAN DIEGO is 39-30 (+15.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 2-12 (-13.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday this season.

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

ERIC STULTS vs. ATLANTA since 1997
STULTS is 0-1 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.200.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)

MIKE MINOR vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
MINOR is 0-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 4.50 and a WHIP of 1.833.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

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PHILADELPHIA (52 - 62) at MIAMI (52 - 63) - 7:10 PM
COLE HAMELS (L) vs. NATHAN EOVALDI (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 52-62 (-23.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 14-28 (-19.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 52-59 (-20.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 38-40 (-10.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
HAMELS is 47-44 (-20.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
MIAMI is 77-56 (+21.1 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 25-6 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in road games in August games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 90-59 (+21.8 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 51-61 (-15.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MIAMI is 43-58 (-25.5 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 63-88 (-25.8 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 52-63 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MIAMI is 59-76 (-29.9 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 7-20 (-14.3 Units) against the money line in home games in August games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 6-3 (+3.6 Units) against PHILADELPHIA this season
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.7 Units)

COLE HAMELS vs. MIAMI since 1997
HAMELS is 6-10 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 3.68 and a WHIP of 1.162.
His team's record is 8-14 (-15.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 11-11. (-2.2 units)

NATHAN EOVALDI vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
EOVALDI is 0-1 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.600.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

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HOUSTON (38 - 78) at CHICAGO CUBS (44 - 69) - 8:05 PM
ARMANDO GALARRAGA (R) vs. JEFF SAMARDZIJA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 7-27 (-16.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +150 to +175 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 11-46 (-29.5 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
HOUSTON is 3-16 (-11.6 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents this season.
HOUSTON is 38-77 (-28.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
HOUSTON is 27-54 (-19.5 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
HOUSTON is 26-59 (-26.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
HOUSTON is 23-53 (-23.2 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
HOUSTON is 16-35 (-16.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
HOUSTON is 5-30 (-23.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 38-77 (-28.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
GALARRAGA is 20-29 (-16.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997. (Team's Record)
GALARRAGA is 8-16 (-14.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHICAGO CUBS are 22-13 (+13.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 44-69 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 146-123 (-51.4 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 662-619 (-142.2 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 189-250 (-77.6 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 87-122 (-39.3 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 44-69 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 182-184 (-59.5 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 904-980 (-170.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 19-33 (-12.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 3-3 (+0.0 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.9 Units)

ARMANDO GALARRAGA vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
GALARRAGA is 2-1 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 4.95 and a WHIP of 1.050.
His team's record is 2-1 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.0 units)

JEFF SAMARDZIJA vs. HOUSTON since 1997
SAMARDZIJA is 0-1 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.333.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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MILWAUKEE (52 - 61) at COLORADO (41 - 71) - 8:40 PM
MICHAEL FIERS (R) vs. JEFF FRANCIS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 13-23 (-11.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 23-28 (-9.3 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
MILWAUKEE is 25-29 (-11.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MILWAUKEE is 52-61 (-18.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 19-35 (-19.6 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 52-61 (-18.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
FRANCIS is 8-3 (+8.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season. (Team's Record)
MILWAUKEE is 47-18 (+23.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 41-71 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
COLORADO is 21-37 (-18.1 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
COLORADO is 8-19 (-11.1 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 10 to 10.5 this season.
COLORADO is 41-71 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
COLORADO is 134-162 (-41.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 31-49 (-11.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
COLORADO is 12-24 (-13.0 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss this season.
COLORADO is 18-28 (-11.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLORADO is 2-1 (+1.7 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.8 Units)

MICHAEL FIERS vs. COLORADO since 1997
No recent starts.

JEFF FRANCIS vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
FRANCIS is 2-3 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 7.09 and a WHIP of 1.667.
His team's record is 3-3 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-3. (+0.0 units)

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WASHINGTON (71 - 44) at SAN FRANCISCO (63 - 52) - 10:15 PM
GIO GONZALEZ (L) vs. RYAN VOGELSONG (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 169-127 (+25.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 24-11 (+14.3 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 164-100 (+61.4 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday since 1997.
VOGELSONG is 15-6 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
VOGELSONG is 15-6 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
VOGELSONG is 10-1 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season. (Team's Record)
WASHINGTON is 48-27 (+17.5 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
WASHINGTON is 49-30 (+15.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
WASHINGTON is 69-54 (+25.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 71-44 (+20.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 39-22 (+17.2 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
WASHINGTON is 68-44 (+16.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
GONZALEZ is 17-6 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 11-2 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 17-6 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
SAN FRANCISCO is 18-23 (-14.5 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 3-0 (+3.1 Units) against SAN FRANCISCO this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.0 Units)

GIO GONZALEZ vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
GONZALEZ is 1-2 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 3.42 and a WHIP of 1.479.
His team's record is 1-3 (-2.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-3. (-2.5 units)

RYAN VOGELSONG vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
No recent starts.

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TEXAS (67 - 46) at NY YANKEES (67 - 47) - 7:05 PM
RYAN DEMPSTER (R) vs. DAVID PHELPS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY YANKEES are 64-39 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TEXAS is 126-79 (+20.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
NY YANKEES are 98-88 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS is 2-1 (+0.9 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.2 Units)

RYAN DEMPSTER vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
DEMPSTER is 0-3 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 6.45 and a WHIP of 2.105.
His team's record is 0-4 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.6 units)

DAVID PHELPS vs. TEXAS since 1997
No recent starts.

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CHI WHITE SOX (62 - 51) at TORONTO (54 - 60) - 7:05 PM
JAKE PEAVY (R) vs. CARLOS VILLANUEVA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHI WHITE SOX are 18-24 (-9.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 46-34 (+10.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 17-11 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in road games after a win this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 15-6 (+9.1 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 62-51 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 30-25 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
TORONTO is 29-40 (-15.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 3-3 (+0.1 Units) against CHI WHITE SOX this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.7 Units)

JAKE PEAVY vs. TORONTO since 1997
PEAVY is 2-0 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 4.00 and a WHIP of 1.148.
His team's record is 4-0 (+4.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (+0.0 units)

CARLOS VILLANUEVA vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
VILLANUEVA is 0-0 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 9.00 and a WHIP of 1.800.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)

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DETROIT (61 - 54) at MINNESOTA (49 - 65) - 8:10 PM
ANIBAL SANCHEZ (R) vs. SAM DEDUNO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 61-54 (-9.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
DETROIT is 5-12 (-11.1 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -125 to -150 this season.
DETROIT is 57-51 (-10.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
DETROIT is 31-35 (-12.6 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
DETROIT is 75-38 (+24.4 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 112-165 (-29.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 56-84 (-29.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 3-18 (-16.0 Units) against the money line in home games in August games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 56-84 (-29.2 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 31-52 (-21.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 75-122 (-31.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 12-26 (-13.1 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss this season.
MINNESOTA is 23-42 (-15.2 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 7-18 (-11.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 4-5 (+1.5 Units) against DETROIT this season
6 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.8 Units)

ANIBAL SANCHEZ vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
No recent starts.

SAM DEDUNO vs. DETROIT since 1997
No recent starts.

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CLEVELAND (53 - 62) at LA ANGELS (60 - 55) - 10:05 PM
JUSTIN MASTERSON (R) vs. C.J. WILSON (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 13-25 (-11.9 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.
LA ANGELS are 647-552 (+70.9 Units) against the money line after a loss since 1997.
CLEVELAND is 10-3 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 100-88 (+16.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 58-50 (-10.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA ANGELS are 60-55 (-14.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA ANGELS are 0-6 (-11.0 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -175 to -200 this season.
LA ANGELS are 28-38 (-17.3 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 4-2 (+2.5 Units) against LA ANGELS this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.8 Units)

JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
MASTERSON is 2-0 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 1.55 and a WHIP of 1.181.
His team's record is 4-2 (+3.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-4. (-2.3 units)

C.J. WILSON vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
WILSON is 2-1 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.13 and a WHIP of 1.043.
His team's record is 2-2 (-1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+2.0 units)

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TAMPA BAY (62 - 52) at SEATTLE (53 - 63) - 10:10 PM
ALEX COBB (R) vs. BLAKE BEAVAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BEAVAN is 9-1 (+11.5 Units) against the money line after a win this season. (Team's Record)
TAMPA BAY is 30-25 (+8.1 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
TAMPA BAY is 206-203 (+28.8 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997.
TAMPA BAY is 110-88 (+20.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 67-49 (+19.2 Units) against the money line in road games after a win over the last 3 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 67-39 (+20.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 182-259 (-58.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 5-2 (+1.6 Units) against SEATTLE this season
6 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+4.8 Units)

ALEX COBB vs. SEATTLE since 1997
COBB is 0-2 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.441.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.1 units)

BLAKE BEAVAN vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
BEAVAN is 1-1 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 4.05 and a WHIP of 0.975.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)

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

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 09:41 AM

Monday's betting tips: Pirates pitchers are gold at home

Weather to watch

Milwaukee Brewers at Colorado Rockies: A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms at Coors Field.

Who’s hot?

The Tampa Bay Rays completed a three-game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays at home and then travelled to Minnesota and took all three games of a weekend series with the Twins. The Rays continue their 10-game road trip Monday in Seattle.

Who’s not?

The Chicago Cubs were swept by the Padres and dropped three of four to the Reds last week. Chicago has just one win in its last 12 games overall.

Key stat

Rory McIlroy is the first player in golf history to win multiple majors by four or more shots before turning 24. Both his wins were by eight shots.

Game of the day

Washington Nationals at San Francisco Giants (-122, 6.5)

Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

Cincinnati Reds third baseman Scott Rolen remains day-to-day with a sore back. The 37-year-old has missed the last five games and may require a stint on the disabled list. The Reds are already without slugger Joey Votto, who just underwent a second knee surgery last week.

Notable quotable

"It's tough to say that Rory is a Tiger Woods type player. Woods is a once-in-a-lifetime player, and Rory is at least a once-in-a-decade type player. He's that good. ... He's going to be a superstar of game, which he already is. But he's a real superstar now."- Graeme McDowell after Rory McIlroy’s victory at the PGA Championship.

Betting news and notes

-The White Sox have dropped seven of Peavy’s last 10 starts, but Toronto is just 2-9 in its last 11 games against right-handed starters.

-The Astros have dropped 23 of their last 29 games against National League Central teams and are 10-45 in their last 55 road games.

-The Pittsburgh Pirates have gone 25-10 in their last 35 games at home. Pirates’ hurlers have held the opposition to two earned runs or less 33 times in the first 56 games at PNC Park.

-The Nationals have won 12 of their last 14 road contests and own the best road winning percentage (.639) in the bigs.

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 09:47 AM

NCAAF betting: Sun Belt Conference preview

Slow but sure. That’s the Sun Belt’s motto.

After sending three teams off to the bowling alleys each of the last two seasons, the "Fun in the Sun" guys currently own the fifth-best win percentage (.545) of the 11 FBS conferences in bowl games played since 2007, ranking ahead of the ACC, Big 10 and the PAC 12.

And a recently signed contract with ESPN guarantees the Sun Belt new radiant exposure on the programming giant through the 2019 season. No less than seven games will be aired this season.

The newest addition to the league is South Alabama, a team that has lost only four of its 27 games the last four seasons under head coach Joey Jones.

Never shy when it comes to tackling the big boys, the Sun Belt has squared off in no less than 42 games against FBS foes that appeared in a bowl game the last two seasons.

One very disturbing stat: Sun Belt teams are 9-108 in games against BCS AQ (Automatic Qualifier) teams the last five years.

Granted, they may be arguably the weakest of the 11 BCS conference affiliates, and its league champ won’t be guaranteed a BCS bowl, but don’t tell them.

By rule, if it can, the SBC champion will earn an automatic berth in a BCS bowl game if its champion is ranked in the top 12 of the final BCS standings, or if that team is ranked in the top 16 of the final BCS standings and its ranking is higher than that of a champion of a conference that has an automatic berth in one of the BCS bowls.

In closing, as we mentioned in our analysis last year, the league may be suffering from a bad case of sunspots but to a team they believe, sooner than later, a member of the Sun Belt Conference will someday be playing in a BCS bowl game. Don’t bet against them. They’ve still having plenty of fun in the sun.

Note: Team writeups by this author excerpted from the 2012 PLAYBOOK Football Preview magazine. Numbers following team name represent the amount of returning starters on offense and defense, with an asterisk (*) designating a returning quarterback. Designated ‘Play On’ and ‘Play Against’ Best Bets follow each team’s preview.

ARKANSAS STATE (*6/4)

Team Theme: FAST AND FURIOUS

With Hugh Freeze yet another ‘one-and-done’ coach and now the new boss at Ole Miss, new coach Gus Malzahn has large shoes to fill as ASU broke virtually every offensive record in program history en route to a 10-win campaign last year. That doesn’t faze Malzahn, who sees his fast-paced offense as being a really big advantage when it comes to coaching college football. “I'm a big fan of Chip Kelly and his offense. He's kind of on the cutting edge and he's not afraid to take chances with new things." Editor’s note: Don’t be surprised if Malzahn’s next new thing finds him and his playbook in Little Rock sometime in the very near future.

STAT YOU’LL LIKE: After ranking No. 95 in total offense in 2009, ASU’s spread offense ranked No. 22 last season.

PLAY ON: at Oregon (9/1)

FLORIDA ATLANTIC (*7/8)

Team Theme: TAKE A LOOK AT ME NOW

It’s out with the old and in with the new in Boca as Howard Schnellenberger is now drawing full Social Security while Carl Pelini is roaming the FAU sidelines. While Pelini’s only experience as a head coach has been at the high school level, he immediately established a leadership council led by players, rules in the weight room that players have responded to, a new spread offense and 4-3 defense. “Things went so poorly last year, you really want to buy in,” says DB Keith Reaser of Pelini’s playbook. Though Iowa transfer Jonathon Wallace should help a ground game that mustered only 3.3 YPC in 2011, we’ll continue to window shop before we buy.

STAT YOU’LL LIKE: In 2012, the Owls will play seven true road games for the ninth straight season.

PLAY ON: vs. North Texas (9/29)

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL (7/10)

Team Theme: IMAGINE THIS

There’s a reason Mario Cristobal said no to offers from Pitt and Rutgers. The coach knows what’s under the hood for his football team this season. With 17 starters back from last year’s eight-win edition, Cristobal has more talent on hand than he’s ever had since taking over this fledgling program in 2007. What happens should FIU win each of its four non-conference games to start the season? The Panthers would then head into Sun Belt play with a real possibility of finishing unbeaten. It would be just their luck to see that happen to only wake up and find the Mayans were right! While the ancient ones have December 21st circled on their calendar, Mario is thinking New Year’s Day.

STAT YOU’LL LIKE: After going 0-18 SU in the first three games of the season the previous six years, the Panthers went 3-0 last season.

PLAY ON: at Duke (9/1)

LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE (*9/4)

Team Theme: RING OF SUCCESS

In his first year on the job, Mark Hudspeth tied a school record for most wins in a season (9) and was quickly rewarded with a five-year contract extension and
double the pay (750k) in hope that he’s not lured out of Lafayette by the big boys. In a show of appreciation, Hudspeth awarded each player a Super Bowl-like ring as a memento of their New Orleans Bowl win. He may want to remember sizes as the Cajuns return nine starters on offense, led by senior QB Blaine Gautier, who tossed for 3,000 yards and 23 TD’s in 2011. Hudspeth also put the advantage back in home field as Lafayette raged to a 5-0 SU mark after dropping six of its previous eight at Cajun Field.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: The Cajuns have cashed in each of their last 13 games in a row away from home as a dog.

PLAY ON: at Oklahoma State (9/15)

LOUISIANA-MONROE (*8/5)

Team Theme: BERRY PROMISING

At first glance, it appears the Warhawks have slipped in each of the first two years under Todd Berry, going from six wins to five to four. However, Monroe improved on each side of the ball in 2011 and, despite the SU and ATS drop, teams of this ilk almost always improve dramatically the following season. Let’s not forget that in his first season Berry saw 17 freshmen and sophomores start games for a team that came within one game of bowl eligibility – or that he has developed 11 all-SBC performers since his arrival. Yes, ULM will open the season 0-3 but that should toughen them up for what promises to be a much-anticipated bowl run.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: Berry is 0-24 SU and 6-17 ATS in games off a spread win of more than 4 points.

PLAY ON: at Western Kentucky (10/20)

MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE (*6/6)

Team Theme: STOCKING UP

There is something to be said about how teams perform after record-setting performances. If you think otherwise, witness the Blue Raiders’ effort last year after having gone bowling in consecutive seasons for the first time in school history. An offense that has slipped 10 PPG over the past two seasons, along with an 87-yard collapse by the defense over the same span, results in new coordinators on both sides of the ball. The Blue Man Group will continue to operate from a no-huddle attack but they’ll do it behind a rebuilt offensive line. The good news is the defensive line remains intact for MTSU’s two-time Sun Belt Coach of the Year, Rick Stockstill.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: Rick Stockstill is 6-0 ATS in regular-season games when playing off a SU underdog win.

PLAY ON: vs. Troy (11/24)

NORTH TEXAS (*9/5)

Team Theme: OFF THE STEROIDS

Now that former coach Todd Dodge is gone, it's time for the not-so Mean Green to wean itself off Dodge's JUCO-transfusion and onto Dan McCarney's recruits as this program continues to rebuild itself from the ground up. This year they’ll have to do it without the services of star RB Lance Dunbar and his backup, who together combined for 1,521 yards in 2011. The Green will also be minus the services of 27 seniors who graduated from last year's roster, including three starters from the secondary. The good news is QB Derek Thompson, who battled through injuries last year, appears fully healthy while his backups are suddenly experienced.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: McCarney is 3-18 ATS as a conference road dog of 13 or more points.

PLAY AGAINST: at Middle Tennessee State (10/27)

SOUTH ALABAMA (*5/9)

Team Theme: SMOOTH SPREAD

Established in 2007, Bo Derek would be proud of a South Alabama football program that has moved along nicely, playing its first game in 2009 before recording a perfect 10-0 season in 2010. Defense should, once again, be the strong suit as nine starters are back from a unit that ranked No. 16 in the FCS last season. Offensively, the Jaguars will be unveiling a new spread-attack, handing the keys to sophomore QB C.J. Bennett. Though not eligible for the Sun Belt title until 2013, games played this year will count as conference games for SBC foes. This season may not go as smooth as the past few (see stat below), but the Jaguars have earned FBS status. Perfect.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: The Jaguars are 23-2 SU all-time versus non-FBS opponents.

PLAY ON: at NC State (9/15)

TROY (*10/6)

Team Theme: THE ART OF REBOUNDING

According to Bill Connelly of SB Nation.com, one of college football’s most illuminating reporters, Troy’s down season last year is an indicator of good things to come in 2012. We agree, as the Trojans are a fully qualified ‘Mission Team’ with a lot to prove this season. The descent started early last year when three starters were declared academically ineligible, including QB Corey Robinson’s top two targets. All three return this season. In fact, nine of Troy’s top 10 receivers are on hand this year. And remember, despite the loss of his main weapons, Robinson still managed to air it out for over 3,400 yards and 21 TD’s in 2011. Off the worst season of his 22-year tenure, expect a big Blakeney bounce-back.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: Blakeney has had 19 players picked in the NFL draft in his 22 years with Troy, including DeMarcus Ware and Osi Umenyiora.

PLAY ON: vs. La-Lafayette (9/8)

WESTERN KENTUCKY (*9/8)

Team Theme: FROM ZERO TO…

When the Hilltoppers hired Willie Taggert as their new head coach in 2010, little did they realize that their former star quarterback from the mid 1990’s would lead them from zero to seven wins in two short years. Despite the seven victories, the Toppers were snubbed of a bowl bid. Taggert insists there are no sour grapes – just motivation. “After last year, we’re not gonna make any excuses,” said Taggert. “That’s on us. We can’t blame anyone else.” We wouldn’t blame them for taking a step back, especially with the graduation loss of featured RB Bobby Rainey, who owns every school rushing record while toting the ball nearly 31 times per game last year.

STAT YOU'LL LIKE: The Hilltoppers are 9-35 SU versus FBS opponents. All nine victories have all been under Taggert the last two seasons.

PLAY AGAINST: at La-Lafayette (11/17)

**Udog** · 08-13-2012, 11:37 AM

MLB
Short Sheet

Monday, August 13

National League

LA Dodgers at Pittsburgh, 7:05 ET
Harang: 13-29 TSR on Mondays
Karstens: Pittsburgh 28-12 SU as a favorite

San Diego at Atlanta, 7:10 ET
Stults: San Diego 14-6 Over away in the second half of the season
Minor: Atlanta 28-17 SU off BB road games

Philadelphia at Miami, 7:10 ET
Hamels: Philadelphia 25-6 SU away in August
Eovaldi: Miami 13-34 SU as a home underdog

Houston at Chicago Cubs, 8:05 ET
Galarraga: Houston 2-17 SU away revenging a shutout loss
Samardzija: 6-1 TSR vs. division opponents

Milwaukee at Colorado, 8:40 ET
Fiers: Milwaukee 56-18 SU as a favorite of -150 or higher
Francis: Colorado 8-22 SU after allowing 8+ runs

Washington at San Francisco, 10:15 ET
Gonzalez: 11-2 TSR in road games
Vogelsong: San Francisco 20-7 Under at home after winning 2 of their last 3 games

American League

Texas at NY Yankees, 7:05 ET ESPN2
Dempster: Texas 28-13 SU away after winning 4 of their last 5 games
Phelps: Yankees 1-6 SU off a division loss as a favorite of -150 or higher

Chicago White Sox at Toronto, 7:05 ET
Peavy: White Sox 15-26 SU off 6+ home games
Villanueva: Toronto 23-10 SU after losing 4 of their last 5 games

Detroit at Minnesota, 8:10 ET
Sanchez: Detroit 36-17 SU after losing 3 of their last 4 games
Deduno: Minnesota 3-18 SU at home in August

Cleveland at LA Angels, 10:05 ET
Masterson: Cleveland 5-15 SU off a loss by 6+ runs
Wilson: Angels 33-14 SU after scoring 1 or 0 runs

Tampa Bay at Seattle, 10:10 ET
Cobb: Tampa Bay 21-12 SU away with a total of 7 to 8.5 runs
Beavan: Seattle 23-11 Under after allowing 2 runs or less

Announcement

Monday's Trends and Indexes - 8/13 (MLB, WNBA, CFL, Misc.)

Monday's Trends and Indexes - 8/13 (MLB, WNBA, CFL, Misc.)

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