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**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 10:13 AM

NFL odds: Week 2 opening line report

From the way the commentators had to pick their jaws up off the desk in order to say something, you’d think football fans just witnessed a game ripe for Ripley’s Believe It Or Not.

The Washington Redskins’ 40-32 win over the New Orleans Saints Sunday was a stunner – the 8-point spread tells us so. But, it wasn’t so much the final score that caught people off guard. It was the performance of rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III, who passed for 320 yards, two touchdowns and tacked on 42 yards rushing in the win.

Griffin was the biggest star of Week 1, flooding Twitter with #RG3 and sending fantasy footballers scrambling for the waiver wire. The Redskins’ effort also forced oddsmakers to rethink Washington’s Week 2 odds. The Redskins opened as 3-point road favorites against the St. Louis Rams with a total of 45.5 next Sunday.

“Washington is another ‘hip’ go-to team for players, especially after the Skins' big win,” Peter Korner of The Sports Club, a Las Vegas-based oddsmaking service, told ***********. “We're a good field goal higher with the total (48) and respect the Rams’ defense. But this looks like another freewheeling game and we don't expect a defensive tilt.”

Here’s a look at the opening odds for some of Week 2’s biggest matchups:

Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (-5.5, 49)

The NFC pecking order was given a good shake as the San Francisco 49ers put the Packers in their place, squeezing the cheese 30-22 in Week 1. The Sports Club sent out Green Bay -7, confident that the Packers would bounce back in a mid-week game at home. Some online books opened as low as -4 but quickly were forced to -5.5 with money on the fave.

“We're pretty sure Packers backers will just wait until game day and see how low this line will go before getting on board,” says Korner. “If you set this low to open, expect to be rooting for the Bears on Thursday.”

New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers (-6.5, 41.5)

Did we underestimate the Jets or overestimate the Bills? New York put a poor preseason behind it and hung 48 points against a Buffalo defense that was supposed to be good. Pittsburgh appeared to be pulling out another Ben Roethlisberger last-minute comeback Sunday night, but instead tossed a pick-6 to the delight of over bettors.

“We expect a bounce-back game by the Steelers with their home opener but the Jets infused some self confidence with their big Week 1 win,” says Korner, who sent out Pittsburgh -5. “We're lower than the current line and expect J-E-T-S money come the weekend. “

Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers (-6.5, 46.5)

Ah, the “Handshake Bowl”. The media is already hyping up the bad blood between Lions head coach Jim Schwartz and Niners coach Jim Harbaugh, who got a little excited after a 25-19 win over Detroit last season and shook his counterpart's hand the same way the Hulk smashes a car.

This Sunday Night Football showdown opened as high as San Francisco -7, which has been bet off the key number, and the total opened at 46.5. The Sports Club sent out 47 points and expects a shootout between Detroit’s QB-WR combo and the 49ers' new-look pass attack.

**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 10:14 AM

Football lines that make you go hmmm...

There’s such a thing as too much emotion, especially in sports.

The New Orleans Saints suffered from TME in Week 1 of the NFL season, coming off a summer filled with the “Bounty Gate” scandal and feverish contract negotiations with their star QB, not to mention having those banned players reinstated just days before the season opener.

New Orleans had been through more drama than a season of The Jersey Shore and it hadn't even flipped the coin with the Washington Redskins.

There was no doubt that the Saints were fired up for that game but may have left all that energy in the tunnel. By the time they hit the field, they were an emotionally-drained team, falling 40-32 to the Redskins as 8-point home favorites.

Just like a child calming down from a temper tantrum, the Saints are all cried out and ready to move on with the season. Next stop: Carolina, where books opened New Orleans as high as a 4-point favorite, which immediately was bet down to -1.

We’re not saying the Saints’ hangover is over, but Carolina didn’t look all that impressive either in Week 1, stinking it up in a 16-10 loss to Tampa Bay as a 3-point road favorite. Sure, Cam Newton has a similar skill set as Washington’s dual-threat QB Robert Griffin III but New Orleans is very familiar with Newton’s antics and has won four in a row over the Panthers (2-2 ATS).

This is just one of the lines making football bettors go “hmmm…” heading into this weekend’s action:

Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills (-3.5, 44.5)

Week 1 couldn’t have gone any worse for the Bills, who not only got smacked 48-28 by the Jets but also lost starting RB Fred Jackson for a few weeks and WR David Nelson for the entire season. If New York’s offense can hang 48 points, you have to think the Chiefs' talented trio can do the same.

NCAAF

Boston College Eagles at Northwestern Wildcats (-3.5, 53)

Apparently Boston College’s offense is winning over bettors more than Northwestern’s defense. The Eagles have posted 30-plus points in their first two games against Miami and FCS Maine. The Wildcats, however, are 2-0 against tough competition. They’ve defeated Syracuse and Vanderbilt covering the spread in both contests and now only give 3.5 at home. Are bettors reaching for a letdown spot after a win over an SEC team?

UConn Huskies at Maryland Terrapins (+2.5, 42.5)

Connecticut is far from a football super power and more than likely, the women’s basketball team has nicer digs than the men’s football squad. But the Huskies are getting little respect for their trip to Maryland in Week 3. The Terps are just 2.5-point home dogs despite escaping FCS William & Mary by one point in Week 1 and needing a fourth-quarter comeback versus Temple last weekend.

**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 10:15 AM

NFL
Short Sheet

Week 2

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Chicago at Green Bay, 8:20 ET NFL
Chicago: 3-12 ATS off a turnover margin of +4 or better
Green Bay: 4-0 ATS after allowing 175+ rushing yards

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Tampa Bay at NY Giants, 1:00 ET
Tampa Bay: 30-10 Under in the first two weeks of the season
NY Giants: 1-5 ATS as a home favorite of 7.5 to 14 points

Arizona at New England, 1:00 ET
Arizona: 6-10 ATS in road games
New England: 18-6 Over after scoring 30+ points

Minnesota at Indianapolis, 1:00 ET
Minnesota: 2-11 ATS away off a home win by 3 points or less
Indianapolis: 20-7 Under after allowing 300+ passing yards

New Orleans at Carolina, 1:00 ET
New Orleans: 7-0 ATS after having 50+ pass attempts
Carolina: 6-0 Over off a road game

Kansas City at Buffalo, 1:00 ET
Kansas City: 13-32 ATS vs. AFC East opponents
Buffalo: 16-6 Over at home vs. AFC West opponents

Baltimore at Philadelphia, 1:00 ET
Baltimore: 7-1 ATS after scoring 40+ points
Philadelphia: 7-14 ATS vs. AFC North opponents

Oakland at Miami, 1:00 ET
Oakland: 17-2 Under away off a home division loss
Miami: 34-15 ATS vs. AFC West opponents

Cleveland at Cincinnati, 1:00 ET
Cleveland: 8-1 Under as an underdog
Cincinnati: 8-24 ATS off a loss by 21+ points

Houston at Jacksonville, 1:00 ET
Houston: 11-3 ATS vs. conference opponents
Jacksonville: 6-0 Under at home off a road loss

Dallas at Seattle, 4:05 ET
Dallas: 4-15 ATS as a favorite
Seattle: 18-8 Over vs. conference opponents

Washington at St. Louis, 4:05 ET
Washington: 22-10 Under away after allowing 30+ points
St. Louis: 11-25 ATS vs. NFC East opponents

NY Jets at Pittsburgh, 4:25 ET
NY Jets: 12-3 Over as an underdog
Pittsburgh: 8-0 ATS off a loss

Tennessee at San Diego, 4:25 ET
Tennessee: 10-2 Under away in the first two weeks of the season
San Diego: 19-3 ATS vs. NFC South opponents

Detroit at San Francisco, 8:25 ET NBC
Detroit: 4-14 ATS away vs. NFC West opponents
San Francisco: 6-0 ATS at home off a road game

Monday, September 17, 2012

Denver at Atlanta, 8:35 ET ESPN
Denver: 6-1 ATS as a road underdog of 7 points or less
Atlanta: 6-18 ATS at home off a win by 14+ points

**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 10:15 AM

NFL

Week 2

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Trend Report
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Thursday, September 13

8:20 PM
CHICAGO vs. GREEN BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago's last 9 games on the road
Chicago is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Green Bay
Green Bay is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Green Bay's last 9 games when playing Chicago

Sunday, September 16

1:00 PM
BALTIMORE vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
Baltimore is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Philadelphia is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Baltimore

1:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. CINCINNATI
Cleveland is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Cincinnati is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Cincinnati is 1-7-2 ATS in its last 10 games

1:00 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. BUFFALO
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Kansas City's last 12 games
Kansas City is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Buffalo's last 5 games
Buffalo is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Kansas City

1:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. MIAMI
Oakland is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Miami
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Oakland's last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games when playing Oakland
Miami is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Oakland

1:00 PM
ARIZONA vs. NEW ENGLAND
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing New England
Arizona is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
New England is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 15 of New England's last 21 games at home

1:00 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. NY GIANTS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against NY Giants
NY Giants are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Giants last 5 games when playing Tampa Bay

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. INDIANAPOLIS
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Minnesota's last 12 games on the road
Minnesota is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games
Indianapolis is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games at home
Indianapolis is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games

1:00 PM
HOUSTON vs. JACKSONVILLE
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston's last 9 games when playing on the road against Jacksonville
Houston is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Jacksonville's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Jacksonville's last 9 games at home

1:00 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. CAROLINA
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of New Orleans's last 9 games when playing on the road against Carolina
New Orleans is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against Carolina
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Carolina's last 9 games when playing at home against New Orleans
Carolina is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against New Orleans

4:05 PM
DALLAS vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games when playing Seattle
Dallas is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Seattle's last 7 games at home

4:05 PM
WASHINGTON vs. ST. LOUIS
Washington is 4-8-1 ATS in its last 13 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Washington's last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games when playing at home against Washington
St. Louis is 2-5-1 ATS in its last 8 games at home

4:15 PM
NY JETS vs. PITTSBURGH
NY Jets are 2-7 SU in their last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 16 of the NY Jets last 20 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Pittsburgh's last 12 games when playing NY Jets
Pittsburgh is 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games when playing NY Jets

4:15 PM
TENNESSEE vs. SAN DIEGO
Tennessee is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Diego
Tennessee is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
San Diego is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Tennessee
San Diego is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

8:20 PM
DETROIT vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Detroit's last 10 games on the road
San Francisco is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing Detroit

Monday, September 17

8:30 PM
DENVER vs. ATLANTA
Denver is 2-4-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Denver is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta's last 8 games when playing Denver
Atlanta is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Denver

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**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 10:18 AM

NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 2

Thursday's Game
Bears (1-0) @ Packers (0-1)— Increased urgency for Pack after getting outrushed 186-45 in last week’s loss to 49ers; losing two home games to start season invites a disaster. Green Bay needs to run ball better than last week’s paltry 45 yards on 14 carries. Pack won last four games in NFL’s oldest rivalry (one of which was playoff game in Chicago), with wins by average score of 23-14; Chicago lost its last four visits to Lambeau by average score of 26-11. Cutler started out 1-12 last week but later led five TD drives and led NFL with nine plays of 20+ yards. Bears are 4-5 in last nine road openers, scoring 15 or less points in losses, 21+ in wins. Over last 20 years, Chicago is 7-6 against the spread as an underdog in road openers. Seven of their last eight road openers stayed under total. Short week!!!

**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 11:19 PM

NFL

Week 2

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Tale of the tape: Bears at Packers
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Take a quick glance at the tale of the tape for Thursday night’s NFC North showdown between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers:

Offense

Jay Cutler threw for 333 yards and a pair of touchdowns in Chicago’s Week 1 victory over the Colts. Cutler has struggled against Green Bay since joining the Bears, tossing six TDs and 12 INTs in losing five of the last six meetings. New WR Brandon Marshall has quickly become Cutler’s favorite target after catching nine balls for 119 yards and a score in his Bears debut.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 303 yards and two touchdowns, but he also had a key interception in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s loss to San Francisco. New running back Cedric Benson managed just 18 yards on nine carries and wideout Greg Jennings suffered a groin injury and is questionable.

Edge: Packers

Defense

Bears LB Brian Urlacher (knee) was pulled early for precautionary reasons last week, but is listed as probable for Thursday's game. Pro Bowl cornerback Charles Tillman is questionable after suffering a lower right leg injury, although head coach Lovie Smith seems optimistic about his chances of suiting up.

San Francisco racked up 186 yards on the ground against Green Bay in the season opener. The Packers only have four days to figure out how to stop another potent running attack in the form of Matt Forte and Michael Bush.

Edge: Bears

Special teams

Devin Hester has returned more kicks and punts for touchdowns than anyone else in NFL history. Hester had a relatively quiet season opener against the Colts, but has the ability to explode for big yardage every single time he’s given the opportunity.

Hester is the undisputed top return man in the league, but the Packers also boast a threat on special teams. Second-year returner Randall Cobb brought back a punt 75 yards for a touchdown in Sunday’s loss and is already one of the most accomplished special teams players in franchise history, despite only having 16 games under his belt.

Edge: Bears

Word on the street

"I think there is a big difference to what we are doing offensively…This is a totally different scheme, a mentality and direction that we are going offensively. So, there would be no advantage for (the Packers) watching tape from last year of what we did. It's totally different. I think they understand that."- Bears QB Jay Cutler on Chicago’s revamped offense.

“We're just getting started here…It's been a long training camp, and we're trying to figure out pieces and how we're going to run this defense going forward. I'm going to keep saying, we're going to be a good defense, trust me.” Packers CB Charles Woodson on his team's shaky defense in Week 1.

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**Udog** · 09-12-2012, 11:22 PM

NFL

Week 2

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Bears at Packers: What bettors need to know
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Chicago at Green Bay (-5.5, 51.5)

The Green Bay Packers don't have much time to recover from their season-opening loss as they host the NFC North-rival Chicago Bears on Thursday night. Green Bay, which went a franchise-best 15-1 last season before being upset by the New York Giants in its first playoff game, already has matched its loss total as it dropped a 30-22 decision at home to San Francisco on Sunday. The Packers' rebuilt defense looked eerily similar to last season's disappointing unit, while their "improved" ground attack saw quarterback Aaron Rodgers emerge as the team's leading rusher with 27 yards.

The loss was the first in a season opener since 2006 and ended the 13-game regular-season home winning streak of the Packers, who take on a Chicago team that rolled to a 41-21 home victory over Indianapolis in Andrew Luck's NFL debut. Chicago finished 8-8 last year, losing both meetings with Green Bay by a combined score of 62-38. The Bears have lost four consecutive matchups with the Packers and six of seven but lead the all-time series 92-86-6. Chicago has not won at Lambeau Field since Oct. 7, 2007, when it posted a 27-20 triumph.

TV: 8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network.

LINE: Packers -5.5, O/U 51.5.

WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the high-50s with a 50 percent of showers at Lambeau Field. Winds will be light out of the north.

ABOUT THE BEARS (1-0): The reunion of QB Jay Cutler and WR Brandon Marshall paid immediate dividends as the former Denver Broncos worked extremely well together in their first game as Chicago teammates. Marshall registered 119 yards on nine receptions, including a 3-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter that put the Bears ahead for good. RB Matt Forte could wind up being a disgruntled player if the events that took place in the season opener continue. Forte gained 80 yards on 16 carries and scored on a 6-yard run but was replaced in several goal-line situations by newcomer Michael Bush, who had a pair of 1-yard TDs. Chicago made some roster moves the day after their victory, signing former Steelers OT Jonathan Scott and activating DT Nate Collins from the reserved/suspended list. The Bears also waived P Ryan Quigley.

ABOUT THE PACKERS (0-1): The Packers are hoping to avoid their first 0-2 start since 2006, Mike McCarthy's first season as head coach. Green Bay needs a better performance from RB Cedric Benson, who gained just 18 yards on nine carries in his debut with the Packers. Benson had three disappointing seasons with Chicago after being drafted fourth overall in 2005 but revived his career in Cincinnati, where he eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark three times in four years. DE C.J. Wilson suffered a groin injury early in Sunday's loss. Wilson's attempt to return later in the first quarter was unsuccessful. WR Randall Cobb made it two straight season openers with a return TD, although Sunday's 75-yard punt-return score was a gift as the replacement officials initially penalized Terrell Manning for blocking from behind before picking up the flag. Cobb returned a kickoff an NFL record-tying 108 yards for a TD against New Orleans in the 2011 opener.

TRENDS:

*Under is 8-1 in the last nine meetings.
*Packers are 9-0 ATS in their last nine games following an ATS loss.
*Over is 6-0 in Bears’ last six games following an ATS win.
*Over is 5-0 in Packers’ last five games following a straight-up loss.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Chicago's point total in the season opener was its highest since scoring 48 in a victory on Oct. 4, 2009, over Detroit.

2. Packers LB Clay Matthews, whose sack total dropped from 13.5 in 2010 to a mere six last year, recorded 2.5 in Sunday's loss.

3. The Bears could be without Pro Bowl CB Charles Tillman, who left Sunday's game in the first quarter with a lower leg injury.

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**Udog** · 09-13-2012, 08:51 AM

NFL
Dunkel

Week 2

Chicago at Green Bay
The Bears look to follow up last week's 41-21 win over Indianapolis and build on their 5-1 ATS record in their last 6 games following a SU victory. Chicago is the pick (+6) according to Dunkel, which has the Packers favored by only 4. Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+6). Here are all of this week's picks.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Game 101-102: Chicago at Green Bay (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 135.060; Green Bay 138.918
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 4; 47
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 6; 51 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+6); Under

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Game 197-198: Tampa Bay at NY Giants (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 121.960; NY Giants 136.920
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 15; 48
Vegas Line: NY Giants by 9; 44
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (-9); Over

Game 199-200: Arizona at New England (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 125.587; New England 145.057
Dunkel Line: New England by 19 1/2; 52
Vegas Line: New England by 13 1/2; 48
Dunkel Pick: New England (-13 1/2); Over

Game 201-202: Minnesota at Indianapolis (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 127.405; Indianapolis 124.286
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 3; 47
Vegas Line: Minnesota by 1; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-1); Over

Game 203-204: New Orleans at Carolina (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 133.168; Carolina 136.437
Dunkel Line: Carolina by 3 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 2 1/2; 51
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+2 1/2); Under

Game 205-206: Kansas City at Buffalo (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 128.986; Buffalo 125.019
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 4; 41
Vegas Line: Buffalo by 3 1/2; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+3 1/2); Under

Game 207-208: Baltimore at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore 135.997; Philadelphia 143.347
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 7 1/2; 49
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 1; 46 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-1); Over

Game 209-210: Oakland at Miami (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 134.696; Miami 130.404
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 4 1/2; 39
Vegas Line: Oakland by 2 1/2; 37 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (-2 1/2); Over

Game 211-212: Cleveland at Cincinnati (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 126.615; Cincinnati 134.845
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 8; 44
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 7; 38 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-7); Over

Game 213-214: Houston at Jacksonville (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 136.708; Jacksonville 128.335
Dunkel Line: Houston by 8 1/2; 46
Vegas Line: Houston by 7; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-7); Over

Game 215-216: Dallas at Seattle (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 134.533; Seattle 129.672
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 5; 45
Vegas Line: Dallas by 3; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (-3); Over

Game 217-218: Washington at St. Louis (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 125.870; St. Louis 125.019
Dunkel Line: Washington by 1; 42
Vegas Line: Washington by 3; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (+3); Under

Game 219-220: NY Jets at Pittsburgh (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 126.424; Pittsburgh 138.842
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 12 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 5 1/2; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-5 1/2); Over

Game 221-222: Tennessee at San Diego (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 129.776; San Diego 133.176
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 3 1/2; 39
Vegas Line: San Diego by 6; 42 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (+6); Under

Game 223-224: Detroit at San Francisco (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 135.154; San Francisco 140.218
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 5; 41
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 7; 46
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+7); Under

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Game 225-226: Denver at Atlanta (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Denver 131.670; Atlanta 133.243
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Atlanta by 3; 51
Dunkel Pick: Denver (+3); Under

**Udog** · 09-13-2012, 10:17 PM

NFL poolies betting cheat sheet: Week 2

Want to handicap Sunday's NFL action but don't have time to research every game? Check out our NFL poolies cheat sheet for all your football wagering needs. We give you quick-hitting notes on all of Week 2's action.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New York Giants (-7, 44)

The Buccaneers haven’t defeated the Giants since Nov. 24, 2003. Tampa is 0-4-1 ATS in its last five meetings with New York and the teams have played under the total in seven straight matchups.

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers (1, 51)

The Saints have taken the last four meetings with the Panthers. The under is 8-1 in the last nine meetings and the road team is 17-4 ATS in the last 21 games head-to-head.

Arizona Cardinals at New England Patriots (-13.5, 48)

The Cardinals haven’t picked up a victory over the Patriots since the 1991 campaign, dropping the last five meetings. Arizona is 0-4 ATS in its last four contests versus New England.

Minnesota Vikings at Indianapolis Colts (1, 44.5)

Indianapolis has taken the last three games in the series and Minnesota is just 1-5 ATS in its last six games following a win.

Baltimore Ravens at Philadelphia Eagles (-1, 46.5)

Is this spread too good to be true after Baltimore’s convincing win over Cincinnati last week? The Eagles barely slipped past the Browns last week and are just 1-5 ATS in their last six Week 2 games.

Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills (-3.5, 44.5)

C.J. Spiller will get the majority of the carries for the Bills after Fred Jackson suffered a knee injury in their blowout loss to the Jets in Week 1. The Chiefs are 0-5 ATS in their last five meetings with Buffalo.

Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals (-7, 38.5)

The Bengals have won three straight over the Browns but the underdog is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars (7, 41.5)

The Texans are riding a three-game winning streak over the Jaguars. Houston is 4-0 ATS in its last four Week 2 contests.

Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins (1, 38.5)

The Dolphins have owned the Raiders in recent years, taking six of the last seven games against the black and silver. The underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.

Dallas Cowboys at Seattle Seahawks (3, 41.5)

Cowboys QB Tony Romo returns to the site of his infamous playoff gaffe for the first time since his botched hold in the 2007 playoffs. The good news for Dallas bettors is that the squad is 5-1 ATS in its last six against Seatte.

Washington Redskins at St. Louis Rams (3, 45.5)

The Redskins are just 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings with the Rams, but it could be a different story with RG3 under center on Sunday. St. Louis is 4-0-1 O/U in its last five September contests.

New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers (-5.5, 41.5)

Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis left their Week 1 game against the Bills with a minor head injury and has since been diagnosed with a mild concussion. However, he's expected to play on Sunday. New York needs him because the Steelers are 8-0 ATS in their last eight games following a straight-up loss.

Tennessee Titans at San Diego Chargers (-6, 43)

The Chargers have won eight straight over the Titans. Tennessee’s last victory over San Diego was way back in 1992. The Titans have played under the total in nine of their last 11 games overall.

Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers (-7, 46.5)

Detroit is winless in its last eight contests with San Francisco. The teams played under the total in all eight of those previous meetings.

**Udog** · 09-13-2012, 10:18 PM

NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 2

Sunday, Monday Games

Bucs (1-0) @ Giants (0-1)—Schiano’s first road game as Bucs’ HC brings him back to New Jersey, where he coached Rutgers for 12 years; both his coordinators coached for Giants, DC Sheridan (’05-’09), OC Sullivan (’04-’11). Much like Green Bay, Giants can’t afford to start year with two home losses; they allowed Dallas to average 9.4 yards/pass attempt in opening loss. Big Blue was only NFL team not to gain 20+ yards on any 1st/2nd down play last week; all three of their explosive plays came on 3rd downs. Bucs held Carolina to 10 yards rushing last week, allowed them to convert only twice on 10 third downs on stormy day. Tampa Bay won its last two road openers, but is 3-5 vs spread in last eight, all as underdog. 14 of their last 19 road openers stayed under total, but only one of last four. Average total in last eight series meetings, 24.4, with Giants winning last three by average score of 22-6.

Cardinals (1-0) @ Patriots (1-0)—Arizona lost last two visits here, 31-0/47-7; they come in off high after stopping Seattle in red zone at end of 20-16 win in home opener. Looks like Kolb will get start at QB here, after starter Skelton got hurt (high ankle sprain) with Cardinals down 16-13; Kolb then directed winning TD drive. Patriots ran ball for 162 yards last week, passed for 228, unusually good balance for them. Arizona won three of last four road openers, covering all four, after 0-6 skid (1-4-1 vs spread) before that. Redbirds are 9-6-1 vs spread in last 16 tries as an underdog in road openers, with five of last six staying under total. Patriots won last 10 home openers (6-3-1 vs spread), with eight of the ten games going over total; they covered last three home openers that weren’t in Week 1. This is first time since ’00 they host an NFC team in a home opener.

Vikings (1-0) @ Colts (0-1)—Indy’s post-Manning era got off to fast start when defense scored in first 4:00 last week, but they wound up giving up 41 points, NFL-high nine plays of 20+ yards. Colts turned ball over five times, converted just 2 of 10 on 3rd down in rough debut for team with new coach, new QB, new beginning. Vikings rallied to win in OT last week, kicking FGs on four of last five drives, including game-tying 55-yarder. Home team won nine of last ten series games; Vikings lost 31-10/31-28 in two visits here, but Indy had different QB then. Not sure how much these trends mean for them, but Colts are 3-7 in last ten home openers not started by now-departed Manning. Vikes lost six of last eight road openers; since ’88, they’re 1-8 vs spread as favorite in road openers. Four of Indy’s last six home openers went over total; six of Vikings’ last eight road openers stayed under.

Saints (0-1) @ Panthers (0-1)— Takes time to learn Spagnuolo’s defense; New Orleans was riddled by rookie QB RGIII in home opener, giving up 11.5 yards/pass attempt, but they’ve won last four games vs division rival Panthers, scoring 34-30-45 points in last three meetings, winning 34-3/30-27 in last two visits here. Saints are 9-5 vs spread in last 14 road openers (two of five losses were Thursday games)- their last four road openers went over (average total in last five, 59.4). Since ’88, NO is 2-4 vs spread as road favorite in road openers. Panthers ran ball for only 10 yards in opening loss on stormy day in Tampa; Carolina is 4-13 in home openers, 1-7 in last eight, 4-3 vs spread as underdogs. Over is 3-1-1 in last five, after under was 10-2 in their first 12. Underdogs are 13-3-1 vs spread in Panthers’ home openers.

Chiefs (0-1) @ Bills (0-1)— Buffalo won four of last five series games, crushing Chiefs 41-7 in Arrowhead LY; KC is making first visit here since ’05- they lost last five trips to Orchard Park by average of 19 points (last win here, ’86). Kansas City lost five of last six road openers, losing 48-3 (+7.5) in Detroit LY; only last 15 years, they’re 4-7 vs spread as an underdog in road openers. Buffalo is 4-7 in last 11 season openers, but covered six of last seven; since ’92, they’re 10-5 as favorite in home openers. Both teams gave up 40+ points in losses last week; Chiefs turned ball over three times on 11 plays after missing game-tying FG in 3rd quarter of 40-24 home loss. Bills gave up a TD on offense, one on special teams; none of Jets’ four TD drives was longer than 61 yards. Four of their last six home openers went over the total; five of Chiefs’ last seven road openers stayed under.

Ravens (1-0) @ Eagles (1-0)-- Short week for Raven squad that sported a wide open passing game in win over division rivals Monday; they've lost eight of last 11 road openers, including 26-12 debacle at Tennessee LY, after they crushed Steelers 35-7 in opener. Vick threw four picks in dreadful performance Sunday at Cleveland, but drove team 91 yards for win when it mattered most. Eagles won despite losing field position by 14 yards; that doesn't happen whole lot. Baltimore has covered six of last eight as underdog in road opener, which they are here. Average total in last three series games is 29.3. Four of Ravens' last five road openers went over. Philly lost five of its last six home openers, with four of last five staying under total; since ’88, Eagles are 7-10 against spread as favorite in home opener, 2-4-1 as dog.

Raiders (0-1) @ Dolphins (0-1)-- Very short week and cross country trip for Raiders, who trailed 10-6 Monday night before injury to long snapper pointed game in San Diego's favor. Miami won three in row and nine of last 11 series games, with Raiders losing six of last seven visits here, with four of six losses by 6 or less points. Over last 16 years, Oakland is 5-11 vs spread in Week 1, but they’ve won three of last four road openers, covering four of last five; over is 9-3-1 in its last 13 road openers. Dolphins are 8-30 vs spread in last 38 games as a home favorite; they've lost six in row and eight of last nine home openers, losing last six by average score of 28-18 (0-6 vs spread), with four of last five home openers going over total. Since ’93, Miami is 1-7 vs spread in home openers that were not in Week 1.

Browns (0-1) @ Bengals (0-1)— Cincinnati won last three series games, by 2-10-3 points; four of last six series games were decided by three or less points. Browns lost seven of last eight visits here, losing last two trips here by total of 5 points. Cleveland is 1-5 in last six road openers, after winning four of first seven; favorites are 6-2-1 vs spread in last nine road openers, with eight of last 11 going over total. Browns had Eagles down 16-10 after picking Vick off four times in opener last week, but they let him drive 91 yards for winning TD in last 2:00. Short week for Bengals after Monday night’s beating in Baltimore. Cincy lost three of its last four home openers, scoring a dismal 9.3 ppg; they covered just three of last 12 as a favorite in home openers, which they are here. Seven of Cincy’s last nine home openers stayed under total. Cleveland is 8-5 vs spread in last 13 games as road dog in divisional games.

Texans (1-0) @ Jaguars (0-1)-- Home teams won eight of last ten series games, with Texans losing five of last seven visits here; Houston is 12-6-1 vs spread as a favorite last 2+ years, 5-2 on road. Jaguars won 17 of 27 (63%) plays on 3rd down at Minnesota last week, but couldn't stop Vikings at end of game and lost in OT. Since '07, Jax is 6-10 vs spread as a home dog, 3-6 in divisional games. Houston won last three road openers (scored 34-30-23 points) after losing five of first seven; they won 30-27 (-3)/23-13 (-3) as favorites in last two road openers, first two times they’ve been favored in one. Seven of their last nine road openers went over the total. Jaguars are 4-3 in last seven home openers, winning last two 24-17/16-14; they actually won six of their first seven home openers, are 4-2 as underdogs in a home opener. Under is 11-5-1 in all 17 of their home openers.

Cowboys (1-0) @ Seahawks (0-1)— Seattle won/covered eight of its last nine home openers, winning last three by combined score of 72-16, but they've lost last three games with Cowboys, all by 10+ points, but all three of those were in Texas. Pokes lost three of last four visits here, with last win 43-39 back in '84. Dallas had four extra days to rest/prepare after winning its opener in Swamp; How many times will ESPN show Romo botching snap on kick in '06 playoff game played here? Home side won last five series games; Dallas is 3-3 here, 1-3 in last four visits, with last win 43-39 in ’04.Since ’88, 2-4 vs spread as dog in Seattle's home openers. Under is 19-5 in their last 24 home openers, 2-3 in last five. Seattle had only one TD on four red zone drives last week, lost 20-16 in Arizona despite 10-yard edge in field position. Under is 9-1-1 in Seahawks’ last 11 home openers.

Redskins (1-0) @ Rams (0-1)—RGIII bandwagon has gotten very crowded very quickly; Rams are team that traded its pick to Washington so they could draft him. Skins averaged 11.5 yards/pass attempt last week in Superdome, #1 figure in NFL, but don't forget, Saints are learning new defense and without a head coach. St Louis is 3-2 vs Skins last six years; Rams haven’t held edge over many teams during that span. Redskins won five of last seven visits here. Rams lost last five home openers (0-5 vs spread) by average score of 34-14; they’re 0-4-1 vs spread last five times their home opener wasn’t in Week 1. St Louis played better defense in Detroit last week but couldn't finish job. Washington DC Haslett was interim coach of Rams after Scott Linehan was fired in ‘08. Under is 8-3-1 in Skins’ last dozen road openers; over is 9-5-1 in Rams’ last 15 home openers.

Jets (1-0) @ Steelers (0-1)— Last two seasons, Pittsburgh is 7-0-1 vs spread in game following a loss; they allowed 8.6 yds/pass attempt last week-- Sanchez is no Manning. Remember Tebow beat Steelers with Mile High TD in OT in LY’s playoffs; that said, Jets are 4-17 vs Steelers, with last four meetings all decided by 5 or less points, and last two Pitt wins coming in playoff games. Jets’ win here in ’10 was their only one in nine visits. Gang Green is 8-4 in last 12 road openers, 5-1 vs spread in last six, covering last four games as an underdog in road openers.. Pitt won last nine home openers (8-1 vs spread, covering last seven), allowing 10-9-0 points in last three; they upset Falcons in '10 home opener, even with Big Ben suspended. Steelers are 6-3 vs spread in home openers that aren’t in Week 1. Under is 8-5 in Jets’ last 13 road openers, 3-0 in Steelers’ last three home openers.

Titans (0-1) @ Chargers (1-0)—Short week for San Diego after win in Monday night opener in Oakland, when they benefitted from Oakland losing its snapper on punts/kicks; Chargers won eight in row over old AFL rivals, with last loss in Astrodome 20 years ago. Titans lost last five visits here by average score of 29-14; their last win here was in ’90. Tennessee won three of last five road openers (4-1 vs spread), with only non-cover 16-14 loss (-1) at Jax LY; dogs covered all five of those games. San Diego is 4-5 in last nine home openers (3-6 vs spread), despite being favored in seven of those nine games. Bolts are 4-10 vs spread last 14 times their home opener wasn’t in Week 1. 13 of Titans’ last 15 road openers stayed under total, including last five in row; seven of Bolts’ last nine home openers went over. Since '04, Chargers are 32-22-2 as home favorites. since '06, Tennessee is 18-10-1 vs spread as a road underdog.

Lions (1-0) @ 49ers (1-0)—Head coaches almost had post-game skirmish after 49ers’ 25-19 win at Ford Field LY, Niners’ 8th series win in row, and 13th in last 14 meetings. 49ers are 7-1-1 vs spread in last nine home openers, 3-0-1 in last four as favorite-- they’re 5-2 in last seven SU. 49ers outrushed Green Bay 186-45 in impressive win at Lambeau last week; they're +29 in turnovers in 17 regular season games under Harbaugh. This year is only second time in last 8 years Niners' home opener is non-divisional game. Detroit won last week, even though they had -3 turnover ratio, first time they did that since 1972. Lions are 3-8 in last 11 road openers; since ’88, they’re 4-2 vs spread in as an underdog in road openers. Since '08, 49ers are 16-6-1 vs spread as favorites at The Stick. Six of Detroit’s last seven road openers went over total. Detroit is 11-6-2 as a non-divisional underdog under Schwartz.

Broncos (1-0) @ Falcons (1-0)—Manning looked lot like old self last week, as Denver averaged 8.6 yards/pass attempt and had three TD drives of 80+ yards. Since 2007, Falcons are 19-7-1 vs spread as a home favorite; since '05, they've covered 19 of 28 games vs AFC opponents. Since '06, Manning is 7-2 as road underdog. Denver won seven of last eight series meetings, with average total in last nine 63.6- they’ve won last four visits here, but Fox lost last three visits here with Carolina, by 17-8-21 points-- he also lost five of last seven road openers. Denver is 3-5 in its last eight road openers, with under 7-2-1 in its last ten. Manning won nine of his last 11 road openers, with LY obviously not counting, since he didn’t play. Atlanta won/covered eight of last nine home openers, winning last three by combined score of 72-16. Under is 9-1-1 in Falcons’ last 11 home openers.

**Udog** · 09-14-2012, 09:21 AM

Where the action is: NFL mid-week line moves

The NFL Week 2 lines have had a chance to sizzle in the football frying pan since their release Monday. While plenty are hovering around the original number, some have moved drastically with one-sided action and sharp bets pushing the odds.

We talk to John Avello, sportsbook director at the Wynn Las Vegas, about this week’s biggest moves and where he expects them to go before kickoff:

New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers – Open: Carolina +4, Currently: Carolina +1

Early bettors are fading the Saints after they fell on their face versus Washington in Week 1. Some online markets opened New Orleans as high as -4 but money on the home side has caused a severe line move.

“The Saints should scare some people after last week’s game,” Avello told Covers. “Their offense was OK, but that defense has always given up big points. They’re playing Carolina, who isn’t a Top 7 team but is a quality team – middle of the road. They always seem to hang around and are a scary team to give the points to.”

“I really don’t know what (bettors) are going to do with it,” laughs Avello, who currently has Saints -2.5 posted. “I don’t know how you can like New Orleans after last week.”

Minnesota Vikings at Indianapolis Colts – Open: Indianapolis +3, Currently: Indianapolis +1

This spread has come off the key number at most books – online and Nevada – and has the Colts as slight home underdogs. Indianapolis wasn’t terrible versus Chicago in Week 1 and now gets a much weaker opponent in Minnesota. The Vikings welcomed back star RB Adrian Peterson against Jacksonville but still needed overtime to top the lowly Jaguars.

“The Colts will be better, they showed that last week,” says Avello. “This could be one of those chances that they have to win one.”

“It’ll be our least-bet game of the day, that’s for sure,” he added.

Baltimore Ravens at Philadelphia Eagles – Open: Philadelphia -2.5, Currently: Philadelphia -1

While most of the online and Nevada books have moved this spread down, the Wynn is currently dealing the Eagles -3 with sharp action on the opening line. Avello stands by the move and wasn’t overly impressed with the Ravens’ Week 1 win over Cincinnati.

“Joe Flacco had one of his best games ever, but his receivers were wide open the entire game,” says Avello. “I don’t know if Cincinnati wasn’t prepared or if they looked at Ray Rice to do more and keyed on him, leaving guys open. I don’t expect to see that kind of a game from (Flacco) again this week.”

Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons - Open: Total 49, Currently: Total 51

Money on the over is no surprise for Monday night games. Early action has driven this total to the key number of 51 points. Avello says the only way this total is dropping is if sharp money comes in strong on the under before game time.

“The public isn’t going to move this down, only the sharps are going to do that,” says Avello. “I think it deserves to have a total this high. Both of these teams will have no trouble scoring this season and Peyton Manning looked damned good in his first game.”

**Udog** · 09-16-2012, 09:07 AM

NFL

Week 2

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Ravens at Eagles: What bettors need to know
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Baltimore Ravens at Philadelphia Eagles (-2.5, 46.5)

With a road game looming against Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles, it was hardly a surprise to hear Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh use the term "scary good" in describing the quarterback play. The fact that Harbaugh was speaking of his own signal caller, Joe Flacco, instead of the multi-talented Vick spoke volumes of the season-opening performances of each team. Baltimore will try to make it two straight wins against the Eagles, who narrowly escaped a stunning upset at Cleveland in Week 1.

Baltimore looked like an offensive juggernaut Monday night in dismantling the Cincinnati Bengals 44-13 behind a superb effort from the oft-maligned Flacco, while Vick had to overcome one of the worst games of his career to lift Philadelphia to a 17-16 victory over the Browns. Although both teams have been touted as Super Bowl contenders, the Eagles wilted under similar great expectations a year ago and their turnover-filled opener conjured up memories of last season's 1-4 start.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS.

LINE: Eagles -2.5, O/U 46.5.

WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the mid-70s and sunny skies at Lincoln Financial Field. Winds will be light out of the north.

ABOUT THE RAVENS (1-0): Baltimore has been waiting seemingly forever for the offense to catch up with the fierce Ray Lewis-led defense. That time may have arrived. The Ravens unveiled a no-huddle attack and Flacco thrived in it, carving up one of last season's best defenses for 299 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 21-of-29 passing. Running back Ray Rice had to settle for a supporting role - albeit a stellar one - with 10 carries for 68 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Despite the absence of reigning Defensive Player of the Year Terrell Suggs, the Ravens had four sacks and forced two turnovers.

ABOUT THE EAGLES (1-0): Injuries limited Vick to a handful of plays in the preseason, and his lack of game action showed as he tied a career high with four interceptions before leading a 91-yard TD drive with 78 seconds to play. Vick heaved up a career-high 56 pass attempts despite the Eagles not trailing until the fourth quarter, reviving the second-guessing of coach Andy Reid's play-calling. Wideout Jeremy Maclin had a solid game with seven catches for 96 yards and a TD, as did running back LeSean McCoy with 110 yards on 20 carries. Philadelphia's defense limited the Brown to only 210 yards.

TRENDS:

* Over is 5-0 in Ravens’ last five games in September.
* Over is 4-0 in Eagles’ last four Week 2 games.
* Eagles are 1-5 ATS in their last six Week 2 games.
* Ravens are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games in September.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Ravens S Ed Reed, who returned an interception 34 yards for a TD last week to become the league's career leader for most interception return yards (1,497), is questionable with a hamstring injury.

2. Philadelphia starting WRs DeSean Jackson (hamstring) and Maclin (hip) each sat out practice Thursday.

3. Harbaugh, who was an assistant coach for 10 seasons with the Eagles before being named Ravens coach in 2008, is 11-5 against the NFC.

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**Udog** · 09-16-2012, 09:10 AM

NFL

Week 2

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Jets at Steelers: What bettors need to know
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New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers (-5, 41.5)

Now comes the hard part for the New York Jets. It's one thing to put up 48 points – a franchise record for a season opener - against the Buffalo Bills’ defense. It’s quite another to have success against the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road – something that had eluded them up until two seasons ago. After silencing their critics - for now - with an unexpected offensive outburst, the Jets will try to validate that effort with a second straight win over the Steelers at Heinz Field on Sunday.

The Steelers, meanwhile, are seeking to bounce back from a season-opening loss to Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos and will have safety Ryan Clark and possibly linebacker James Harrison back to help. The Jets, who hope to have former University of Pittsburgh star Darrelle Revis (mild concussion) in the lineup, earned their first-ever win in the Steel City 22-17 in 2010. The Steelers had won all seven previous home matchups and have won 17 of the 21 meetings, including a 24-19 victory in the 2010 AFC Championship game. Pittsburgh hasn't started 0-2 since 2002.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS.

LINE: Steelers -5, O/U 41.5.

WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the high-60s and sunny skies at Heinz Field. Winds will be light out of the west.

ABOUT THE JETS (1-0): The Jets’ dominating 48-28 win over the Bills was perhaps the biggest surprise of the first week, mainly because New York infamously failed to score an offensive touchdown in the first three preseason games. Much-maligned QB Mark Sanchez threw for 266 yards and three scores – two to rookie Stephen Hill – and Antonio Cromartie returned one of three interceptions for a touchdown. There were two other surprising developments from the opener: The Jets’ suspect offensive line didn’t allow a sack and Tim Tebow (five carries, 11 yards, zero pass attempts) was a non-factor. The only negative from Sunday’s win was that Revis, who’s from nearby Aliquippa, suffered a concussion after being kicked in the head by a teammate. Revis was unable to practice again Thursday and the team will make a decision about his status Saturday.

ABOUT THE STEELERS (0-1): Pittsburgh struggled against the Broncos’ no-huddle offense without Clark (sickle cell anemia) and Harrison (knee). The top-ranked defense from a season ago allowed 334 yards and the Broncos converted 5 of 9 third downs. Clark should return this week, while Harrison is questionable. The 2008 Defensive Player of the Year is still making his way back from minor knee surgery. Ben Roethlisberger (22 of 40, 245 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT), operating in Todd Haley’s new offense, was efficient at times but also threw a game-clinching pick six. As expected, the Steelers’ offensive line failed to keep Roethlisberger clean (five sacks). The running game, meanwhile, averaged just 2.9 yards per carry. Second-year back Jonathan Dwyer (nine carries, 43 yards) outplayed Isaac Redman (11 carries, 20 yards) and should get more playing time with Rashard Mendenhall still recovering from a torn ACL.

TRENDS:

* Home team is 5-2 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Steelers are 8-0 ATS in their last eight games following a straight-up loss.
* Under is 7-0 in Steelers last seven Week 2 games.
* Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last five Week 2 games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Hill, a second-round pick, is the first Jets receiver to catch two touchdowns in his debut and the first receiver to do so since former Tampa Bay tight end Alex Smith in 2005.

2. Sanchez is 39 of 62 for 403 yards and two touchdowns in two career games against Pittsburgh.

3. This will be the second trip to Pittsburgh for former Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes – the Super Bowl XLIII MVP. He has eight catches for 101 yards and a touchdown against his former team.

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**Udog** · 09-16-2012, 10:40 PM

NFL

Week 2

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Tale of the tape: Broncos at Falcons
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Take a quick glance at the tale of the tape for Monday night’s showdown between the Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons:

Offense

Broncos QB Peyton Manning was dominant in a 31-19 win over Pittsburgh last Sunday night, completing 19 of 26 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns. Manning connected with Demaryius Thomas, who is probable against the Falcons after sustaining a shoulder injury against the Steelers, five times for 110 yards in the victory.

The Falcons averaged 6.8 yards per play and finished with 376 total yards in their 40-24 victory over the Chiefs last Sunday. Quarterback Matt Ryan completed 23 of 31 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns. Second-year wideout Julio Jones was his favorite target, hauling in six passes for 108 yards and two scores. Veteran wide receiver Roddy White (groin) was downgraded from probable Friday to questionable Saturday on the team’s injury report.

Edge: Falcons

Defense

The Denver defense threw all kinds of different looks at Ben Roethlisberger and held him to just 209 yards passing last week. The Broncos have a stout stop unit that boasts playmakers like Champ Bailey, Elvis Dumervil, Von Miller and Tracy Porter.

The Falcons’ defense struggled in the first half against Kansas City, but forced three turnovers and held the Chiefs scoreless in the second half until the game’s last possession. More troubling was the season-ending Achilles injury sustained by star cornerback Brent Grimes.

Edge: Broncos

Special teams

Special teams was key for the Falcons last Sunday, with Matt Bryant converting all four of his field goal attempts and Jacquizz Rodgers racking up 104 yards on two kick returns.

Matt Prater converted both of his field goal attempts against the Steelers in a relatively uneventful game on special teams for the Broncos. The cover team did a great job containing Pittsburgh returners Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders.

Edge: Falcons

Word on the street

"The most important thing is we have to play sound technique and make sure we're in the right place…If you're in the wrong place by a half-yard, you're going to pay for it. (Manning) has a good understanding of how you're trying to defend him. If you give him pre- snap reads, he's going to know where to go with the football." -- Falcons head coach Mike Smith on his plan to contain Peyton Manning.

"He's made me a smarter receiver and taught me how to run routes the way he wanted them, the way to get open…Basically, I had to change up some things that I wasn't doing before. Working with Peyton helped me." -- Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas on how Peyton Manning has improved his game.

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Announcement

NFL Trends and Indexes - Week 2 (Thursday, September 13 - Monday, September 17)

NFL Trends and Indexes - Week 2 (Thursday, September 13 - Monday, September 17)

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