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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:34 AM

Armadillo: Friday's six-pack

-- Johan Santana re-injured his arm, is probably done for the year, and the Mets haven't insured the $31M left on his contract. More brilliance!!!!

-- Fred Hoiberg gets $20M for ten years to stay basketball coach at Iowa State, making him the highest-paid "mayor" in America.

-- "Old Big East" "Big East Leftovers"........the new league that was left behind by the seven Catholic Big East schools better come up with a name pretty fast. Headline writers are making 'em look bad.

-- Florida Gators' football team has only six healthy offensive linemen for spring practice, so their spring game may be more of a scrimmage.

-- Not sure what took them so long, but Giants extended Bruce Bochy's contract thru the 2016 season. Bochy is obviously a very good manager.

-- UCLA thinks they can hire Brad Stevens away from Butler; in a related story, I think Angelina Jolie would love to have dinner with me.

*****

Armadillo: Friday's list of 13: Clearing out a cluttered mind........

13) Not the best card of games Thursday night; three of the four teams that won led by 12+ points at the half. Over last three tournaments, underdogs are now 14-6 vs spread in regional semifinal games.

12) UCLA won the Pac-12 this year, lost conference tournament finals and fired its coach. Oregon State/Washington tied for last in the league, but both coaches will return next year. Those are schools that don’t want to eat money by firing one coach and hiring another.

11) Syracuse 61, Indiana 50-- Hoosiers needed to hit jumpers against the 2-3 zone; 3-15 from arc was fatal, including Hulls going 0-6.

10) Marquette 71, Miami 61-- This was an awful game, sad end to a great season for the Hurricanes. They just couldn't make a shot and missed inside presence of injured center Reggie Johnson.

9) Ohio State 73, Arizona 70-- Only interesting game of the night; Arizona led by 11 with 6:24 left in first half, but at this level, you cannot win without a PG, and Wildcats didn't have a true PG this year. Ross had 17 points in 18 minutes off the bench for the Buckeyes.

8) Wichita State 72, LaSalle 58-- Shockers are first 9-seed to make regional final since Boston College in '94. Good news for Wichita: over last 17 years, underdogs are 9-8 SU in the West Regional final.

7) Small forward Chase Fischer (no relation) has transferred out of Wake Forest, the ninth player to transfer out of Wake in the three years Jeff Bzdelik has been head coach. Much like Minnesota did with Tubby Smith last week, Wake fired its last coach, Dino Gaudio after he won a first round NCAA game. This coaching change has not worked out very well, but the AD is sticking with Bzdelik for another year.

6) High school kid from Dallas named Keith Frazier, a McDonald’s All-American, announced he wants to go to Texas Tech, so he must be pretty good, since Tech doesn’t have a coach right now, and a new coach could 86 the kid after a year if he isn’t what the coach wants. Interesting decision.

5) Speaking of Texas Tech, rumors late Thursday night had the Red Raiders interested in hiring Tubby Smith. He'd be a good coach for them.

4) Miami Dolphins got a new logo and for first time ever next year, will have white facemasks on their helmets, instead of aqua. Just thought you’d like to know.

3) This time next year, Bruce Pearl’s agent is going to be a popular guy; his services are going to be in demand. He wins and plays a popular, running style. He can't coach this coming season because of a show-cause order from the NCAA, for a violation that looks pretty puny now.

2) Florida Gulf Coast is finding out that it ain’t easy to raise funds when your oldest alumnus is a 37-year old nurse. School is 16 years old, so no blue blood alums driving Beemers around Fort Myers.

1) From what you read, Ben Howland will not coach next year, which means he’s going to surface somewhere on TV. I’m curious to hear if he’s any good on TV, since he seems like kind of a dour guy. Maybe he’s not, but we’ll probably find out next year.

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:34 AM

NL Central Division preview: No more Astros to pick on

The new-look National League Central Division never seems to get the respect it deserves, but that could change in 2013.

The St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds are the frontrunners for the NL Central crown, but don't discount the Milwaukee Brewers and Pittsburgh Pirates. It could be another long season for the Chicago Cubs as they continue their rebuilding process.

NL Central teams no longer have the Houston Astros to beat up on throughout the course of the season, which should increase the competition level between the other five clubs.

Chicago Cubs (2012: 61-101 – 25.68 units, 74-82-6 over/under)

Division odds: 20/1
Season win total: 72.5

Why bet the Cubs: Starlin Castro is an up and coming talent with Anthony Rizzo backing him in the lineup. Darwin Barney is a capable No. 2 hitter and is a gold glove fielder. Jeff Samardzija has talent along with Matt Garza if both can stay healthy. Edwin Jackson is a decent No. 3 starting pitcher with veteran experience.

Why not bet the Cubs: Fourteen different pitchers had a 5.00 ERA or worse last year. Only one regular offensive player batted .300 or better and that was Reed Johnson who is no longer with the club. Shortstop Starlin Castro had 27 errors which is a huge issue at such an important defensive position. Carlos Marmol is inconsistent as a closer and will cost Chicago some games.

Season win total pick: Under 72.5

Cincinnati Reds (2012: 97-65 - +18.73 units, 60-89-13 over/under)

Division odds: 10/17
Season win total: 91

Why bet the Reds: Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips lead a solid lineup from top to bottom that should improve with the addition of Shin-Soo Choo. Ryan Ludwick has hit over .300 in his last 80 games and seems to fit nicely into a group that needed a little more power. The rotation features plenty of power arms in Johnny Cueto, Mat Latos, and Homer Bailey. This pitching staff gets even more powerful when considering the relief corps. Aroldis Chapman, Sean Marshall and Jose Arredondo are all solid options late in games.

Why not bet the Reds: The bench isn't very deep, so injuries to this lineup will be problematic. Votto and Phillips must remain healthy for this offense to be potent.

Season win total pick: Over 91

Milwaukee Brewers (2012: 83-79 - -9.18 units, 89-68-5 over/under)

Division odds: 15/2
Season win total: 81

Why bet the Brewers: Ryan Braun is the only player in baseball with 100+ runs and 100+ RBI in each of the last four seasons. Jean Segura could stabilize the shortstop position after hitting .329 in his last 22 games. Yovani Gallardo is an underrated ace with at least 200+ strikeouts in four straight years. The rest of the rotation is filled with potential in Mike Fiers, Wily Peralta, and Marco Estrada.

Why not bet the Brewers: John Axford struggled as the team's closer with a 5-8 record with a 4.67 ERA and 1.44 WHIP in 75 appearances last year. Chris Narveson and Estrada are injury- prone. The bench is suspect as Mat Gamel has not lived up to his potential. Aramis Ramirez, Corey Hart, and Rickie Weeks are inconsistent. Weeks and Ramirez both struggled at the beginning of the season last year.

Season win total pick: Under 81

Pittsburgh Pirates (2012: 79-83 - -2.58 units, 69-84-9 over/under)

Division odds: 12/1
Season win total: 77

Why bet the Pirates: This young lineup should continue to improve and get better each season. Andrew McCutchen is a duel offensive threat with his speed and power. Three Pirates hit at least 25 home runs last seasons with Pedro Alvarez and Garrett Jones joining McCutchen. The team ERA was under 4.00 for the first time since 1998. They acquired Wandy Rodriguez in the middle of last season and he brings experience to the starting rotation.

Why not bet the Pirates: The Pirates finished just 16-36 in their last 52 games of the 2012 season. The back end of the pitching rotation is a problem. James McDonald could be the ace of the staff, but he also pitched like a rookie at times last season. The bullpen lost Joel Hanrahan who was a stabilizing force and is now depending upon Mark Melancon and Jason Grilli to lock things down.

Season win total pick: Over 77

St. Louis Cardinals (2012: 88-74 - -4.23 units, 78-79-5 over/under)

Division odds: 9/4
Season win total: 86

Why bet the Cardinals: A solid offensive lineup returns. Allen Craig ranked seventh in the NL in batting average and slugging. Matt Holliday had a team-high 102 RBIs with Jon Jay hitting over .300 as a leadoff hitter. The bench got stronger with the addition of utility man Ty Wigginton. Adam Wainwright will be back for a full season after elbow surgery last year and is joined by Jaime Garcia and Lance Lynn in the pitching rotation. Shelby Miller is waiting in the wings as well.

Why not bet the Cardinals: While there is talent in the starting rotation, there is also some uncertainty. Jaime Garcia was inconsistent away from home with some terrible numbers on the road last year. Lance Lynn's stamina faltered at the end of the season and Jake Westbrook's ERA has been 4.65 or worse in two of the past three years. Offensively, health could become a problem with Holliday, Rafael Furcal, and potentially Carlos Beltran.

Season win total pick: Over 86

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:35 AM

MLB betting review: Last year's best and worst wagers

Here is a quick refresher on some top and bottom teams from the 2012 season.

MLB best bets

1. Oakland Athletics - 38.54 units (2012 record: 94-68)

2. Baltimore Orioles - 36.83 units (2012 record: 93-69)

3. Washington Nationals - 24.21 units (2012 record: 98-64)

MLB worst bet

1. Boston Red Sox - -36.85 units (2012 record: 69-93)

2. Houston Astros - -30.69 units (2012 record: 55-107)

3. Chicago Cubs - -25.68 (2012 record: 61-101)

Bet MLB over bets

1. Milwaukee Brewers - 89-68-5 over/under (2012 record: 83-79)

2. San Francisco Giants - 86-70-6 over/under (2012 record: 94-68)

3. San Diego Padres - 85-73-4 over/under (2012 record: 76-86)

Best MLB under bets

1. Tampa Bay Rays - 64-91-7 over/under (2012 record: 90-72)

2. Cincinnati Reds - 60-89-13 over/under (2012 record: 97-65)

3. Atlanta Braves - 67-88-7 over/under (2012 record: 94-68)

MLB best money pitchers

1. Gio Gonzalez, Washington Nationals - 14.76 units (2012 record: 21-8, 2.89 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 24-8)

2. Barry Zito, San Francisco Giants - 13.87 units (2012 record: 15-8, 4.15 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 21-11)

3. Tim Hudson, Atlanta Braves - 12.00 units (2012 record: 16-7, 3.62 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 20-8)

MLB worst money pitchers

1. Dan Haren, Washington Nationals - -15.28 units (2012 record: 12-13, 4.33 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 12-18)

2. Scott Feldman, Chicago Cubs - -13.72 units (2012 record: 6-11, 5.09 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 7-14)

3. Jon Lester, Boston Red Sox - -13.65 units (2012 record: 9-14, 4.82 ERA, 2012 Team W-L: 13.20)

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:37 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

Michigan State vs. Duke
The Blue Devils look to take advantage of a Michigan State is that is coming off a 70-48 win over Memphis and is 6-16-1 ATS in its last 23 games following a win by 20 points or more. Duke is the pick (-2) according to Dunkel, which has the Blue Devils favored by 4. Dunkel Pick: Duke (-2). Here are all of today's games.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

Game 873-874: Oregon vs. Louisville (7:15 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oregon 70.548; Louisville 79.845
Dunkel Line: Louisville by 9 1/2; 135
Vegas Line: Louisville by 11; 129 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oregon (+11); Over

Game 875-876: Michigan State vs. Duke (9:45 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Michigan State 72.335; Duke 76.487
Dunkel Line: Duke by 4; 130
Vegas Line: Duke by 2; 134
Dunkel Pick: Duke (-2); Under

Game 877-878: Michigan at Kansas (7:37 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Michigan 68.777; Kansas 73.850
Dunkel Line: Kansas by 5; 133
Vegas Line: Kansas by 2; 136 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas (-2); Under

Game 879-880: Florida Gulf Coast vs. Florida (9:57 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Florida Gulf Coast 63.146; Florida 73.298
Dunkel Line: Florida by 10; 142
Vegas Line: Florida by 13; 136
Dunkel Pick: Florida Gulf Coast (+13); Over

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Friday, March 29

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OREGON (28 - 8) vs. LOUISVILLE (31 - 5) - 3/29/2013, 7:15 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LOUISVILLE is 22-14 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 22-14 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) when the total is 120 to 129.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 35-24 ATS (+8.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 15-2 ATS (+12.8 Units) in all neutral court games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in a neutral court game where the total is 120 to 129.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in March games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 15-2 ATS (+12.8 Units) when playing on a neutral court over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) after allowing 60 points or less this season.
LOUISVILLE is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in a NCAA tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LOUISVILLE is 24-13 ATS (+9.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 15-8 ATS (+6.2 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.

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

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MICHIGAN ST (27 - 8) vs. DUKE (29 - 5) - 3/29/2013, 9:45 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DUKE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games after a non-conference game this season.
DUKE is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in road games in non-conference games this season.
DUKE is 45-70 ATS (-32.0 Units) in March games since 1997.
DUKE is 13-27 ATS (-16.7 Units) on Friday nights since 1997.

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

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MICHIGAN (28 - 7) vs. KANSAS (31 - 5) - 3/29/2013, 7:37 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games this season.
KANSAS is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game this season.
MICHIGAN is 56-38 ATS (+14.2 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 56-38 ATS (+14.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) after a non-conference game over the last 2 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 23-12 ATS (+9.8 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all tournament games this season.
MICHIGAN is 47-30 ATS (+14.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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FLA GULF COAST (26 - 10) vs. FLORIDA (28 - 7) - 3/29/2013, 10:07 PM
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 99-72 ATS (+19.8 Units) after a non-conference game since 1997.
FLORIDA is 100-70 ATS (+23.0 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
FLORIDA is 62-35 ATS (+23.5 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.
FLORIDA is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) in a NCAA tournament games since 1997.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all games this season.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
FLA GULF COAST is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all neutral court games over the last 2 seasons.
FLA GULF COAST is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in March games over the last 2 seasons.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing on a neutral court over the last 2 seasons.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all tournament games this season.
FLA GULF COAST is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
FLA GULF COAST is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.

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

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NCAAB
Top 25 Short Sheet

Friday, March 29

NCAA Tournament, Sweet Sixteen

Oregon vs. Louisville, 7:15 ET CBS
Oregon: 1-7 ATS after playing as an underdog
Louisvile: 8-0 ATS in March

Michigan State vs. Duke, 9:45 ET CBS
Michigan State: 14-5 ATS away off an ATS win
Duke: 1-8 ATS after having 9 or less assists

Michigan vs. Kansas, 7:35 ET TBS
Michigan: 7-1 ATS in tournament games
Kansas: 11-1 Under in NCAA Tournament games

Florida Gulf Coast vs. Florida, 10:05 ET TBS
FL Gulf Coast: 7-0 ATS as an underdog
Florida: 5-13 ATS off ATS wins in 2 of their last 3 games

NCAAB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, March 29

Friday's NCAA games
Underdogs are 14-6 vs spread in regional semis last 2+ years.

Louisville is 12-0 since losing in five OTs to Notre Dame Feb 9, winning last seven games by 12+ points each; Pitino is 4-0 in this round with the Cardinals (4-0 vs spread) winning by 14-19-39-13 points. Louisville is #2 in country at forcing turnovers (28.2% of time). Oregon turns ball over 21.5% of time (#264 in country); they lost by 11 to Cincinnati on neutral floor in only game vs Big East foe; they've won last five games, allowing 57-55 points in two tourney wins. Since 2001, #1 seeds are 8-2 vs spread in this round when facing someone other than a 4-5 seed (15-18 vs 4-5 seeds). ***************.com. Teams that won Pac-12 tourney are 3-2 in this round, 1-4 vs spread, 0-2 as underdogs, losing by 13-14 points.

Since 2005, Duke is 1-4 in this round, despite being favored in all five of the games, losing as favorites of 5-5-2-4 points. Since 1987, Duke is 8-3 vs Big Dozen teams in NCAAs; they're 2-1 vs Michigan State, winning 85-74 (-5) in '94, 68-62 (-12) in '99, losing in '05 78-68 (-5). Blue Devils beat Minnesota by 18, Ohio State by 5 in two tilts vs Big Dozen teams this year. Spartans are 14-2 outside Big Dozen play, but one of losses was 67-59 at Miami, its only game vs ACC team. Since '01, underdogs are 10-7 vs spread when 2-seed faces a 3-seed in this round. Spartans are holding teams to 29.8% from arc; Duke makes 40.3% behind arc, 5th in country. Appling hurt his shoulder last week, is expected to play here.

Bill Self is 5-1 (3-3 vs spread) in Sweet 16 games at Kansas, winning by 15-3-15-20-3 points, losing only to Michigan State (-2.5) in '09- they've won 12 of last 13 games (lost at Baylor), winning first two tourney tilts by 7-12, allowing 57.5 ppg. Michigan beat K-State by 14, West Virginia by 15 in its two games vs Big X teams; Wolverines won first two games in NCAAs by 15-25 points after going 6-6 in last 12 regular season tilts. #1 seeds are 15-19 vs spread in this round when facing a 4-5 seed (8-2 vs others). ***************.com. Michigan is young (#339 in experience), doesn't sub much (#325 in bench minutes) but their 54.6 eFG% is #11 in country. Jayhawk foes shoot just 38.7% inside arc; Michigan better make some 3-pointers.

Florida Gulf Coast is first 15-seed to get this far; they beat pair of teams last week (Hoyas/Aztecs) that struggle on offense, now Florida (28-1 in games decided by 10+ points, 0-6 in games decided by less than 10) are presenting a different problem- Gators shoot 38.3% from arc, 55.1% on 2-pointers are #28 in experience. FGCU has five losses to teams ranked outside top 200, but not now; this confident, athletic team has only two seniors in its rotation, but Comer is superior PG who has Eagles running and playing with swagger. Florida won its last five Sweet 16 games (4-1 vs spread) winning by 9-4-8-9-10 points. Hard to go against the Eagles here, but when Cinderella goes down, it often goes down by a big score.

NCAAB

Friday, March 29

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Trend Report
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7:15 PM
OREGON vs. LOUISVILLE
No trends available
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Louisville's last 5 games
Louisville is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

7:37 PM
MICHIGAN vs. KANSAS
No trends available
Kansas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

9:45 PM
MICHIGAN STATE vs. DUKE
No trends available
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Duke's last 5 games when playing Michigan State
Duke is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

9:57 PM
FLORIDA GULF COAST vs. FLORIDA
No trends available
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Florida's last 11 games
Florida is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

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NCAAB

Friday, March 29

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NCAA tournament Midwest Regional: Semifinal betting previews
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Louisville Cardinals vs. Oregon Ducks (+10, 129.5)

As impressive as Oregon was in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, the 12th-seeded Ducks will need to be even better when they face No. 1 seed Louisville in the Midwest Region semifinal Friday in Indianapolis. Oregon advanced to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2007 after defeating No. 5 seed Oklahoma State and No. 4 seed Saint Louis last weekend in San Jose, but the Ducks committed a total of 36 turnovers in the two wins.

While the Ducks were able to overcome their high turnover numbers in the first two rounds, Louisville might not be so forgiving. The Cardinals, who routed 16th-seeded North Carolina A&T and No. 8 seed Colorado State in their first two games, uses a tenacious defense to force an average of 19 turnovers per game. Louisville is peaking at the right time with 12 straight wins, including a dominant 78-61 victory over Syracuse in the Big East title game on March 16.

TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, CBS

ABOUT LOUISVILLE (31-5, 22-14-0 ATS): The Cardinals are second in the nation in turnover margin (plus-6.3) and steals (11), and they’re facing an Oregon team that led the Pac-12 with 14.2 turnovers per game. Coach Rick Pitino compared Oregon’s up-tempo offense to Missouri, which lost 84-61 to the Cardinals on Nov. 23. The Cardinals’ backcourt of Russ Smith and Peyton Siva ranks among the best in the country, and Smith averaged 25 points and five steals in two games last weekend. Center Gorgui Dieng could play a key role in neutralizing Oregon senior forward Arsalan Kazemi.

ABOUT OREGON (28-8, 15-18-1 ATS): The Ducks have won five straight, including a win over UCLA in the Pac-12 tournament title game. If they can somehow limit their turnovers, the Ducks have the offensive firepower to make things interesting. Kazemi is averaging 16.5 rebounds in the tournament, and Oregon dominated the boards in its first two tournament games. Freshman guard Damyean Dotson averaged 20 points last weekend, when the Ducks made 16 of their 33 shots from 3-point range. The Ducks feature a balanced offense, with six players averaging at least eight points.

TRENDS:

* Ducks are 5-1 ATS in their last six non-conference games.
* Cardinals are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Ducks last five NCAA Tournament games.
* Under is 7-3 in Cardinals last 10 NCAA tournament games.

TIP-INS:

1. Since the NCAA expanded to 64 teams in 1985, only one No. 12 seed — Missouri in 2002 — has advanced to the Elite Eight.

2. Pitino is 44-16 in the NCAA Tournament.

3. The winner advances to the Elite Eight on Sunday against second-seeded Duke or No. 3 seed Michigan State.

Michigan State Spartans vs. Duke Blue Devils (-2, 134.5)

Few teams have experienced more success in Indianapolis during NCAA Tournament play than Duke and Michigan State. Two of college basketball’s premier programs look to continue their incredible run in that city Friday when the second-seeded Blue Devils face third-seeded Michigan State in the Midwest Regional semifinals at Lucas Oil Stadium. Duke has won six of seven NCAA Tournament games in Indianapolis – including a pair of national championships in 1991 and 2010 – while Michigan State is 7-1 in such games, including its last national championship run in 2000.

The Blue Devils advanced to their 13th Sweet 16 in the last 16 years with Sunday’s 66-50 victory over Creighton, while Michigan State cruised to a 70-48 win over Memphis on Saturday for its 11th berth in the regional semifinals over the same span. The winner of this contest will meet top-seeded Louisville or No. 12 seed Oregon in the Elite Eight on Sunday.

TV: 9:45 p.m. ET, CBS.

ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE (27-8, 14-16-2 ATS): Keith Appling practiced Monday and “is going to be fine,” according to coach Tom Izzo, after injuring his left patellar tendon during the Spartans’ victory over Valparaiso and aggravating a shoulder injury against Memphis. Adreian Payne recorded his first double-double in the NCAA Tournament with 14 points and 10 rebounds against the Tigers. He also added a career-high five blocks, a single-game record by a Michigan State player in a NCAA Tournament game. Gary Harris’ 23 points Saturday were the most by a Spartans freshman in the Big Dance since Shawn Respert scored 27 against Cincinnati in 1992.

ABOUT DUKE (29-5, 18-16-0 ATS): Assistant Chris Collins will reportedly accept the coaching vacancy at Northwestern at the end of the season. On the court, Duke turned in its second-worst shooting performance of the season (38.8 percent) against the Bluejays, but held the country’s second-best shooting team to season lows in points and shooting percentage (30.2). Although freshman Amile Jefferson’s two-point, two-rebound performance in 11 minutes wasn’t particularly noteworthy, his defensive effort against All-American forward Doug McDermott – who finished 4-of-16 – played a key role the Blue Devils’ win. Mason Plumlee, Josh Hairston and Ryan Kelly all battled foul trouble. Duke secured its 2,000th victory Sunday, becoming the fourth team to accomplish the feat.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.
* Underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings.
* Blue Devils are 1-4 ATS in their last five NCAA Tournament games.
* Spartans are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six games following a ATS win.

TIP-INS:

1. Duke is 7-1 against Michigan State under coach Mike Krzyzewski, the loss coming in the Sweet 16 in 2005.

2. The Spartans boast a plus-23 rebounding margin through two games in the NCAA Tournament (98-52)

3. The Blue Devils are one win from hitting 30 victories for the fourth time in the last five years, and for the 13th time under Krzyzewski.

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NCAAB

Friday, March 29

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NCAA tournament South Regional: Semifinal betting previews
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Michigan Wolverines vs. Kansas Jayhawks (-2, 136)

Michigan makes its first appearance in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 since 1994, taking on top-seeded Kansas on Friday in Arlington, Tex. The Jayhawks are no stranger to the second week, reaching the Sweet 16 for the seventh time in 10 seasons under coach Bill Self. The fourth-seeded Wolverines beat No. 13-seed South Dakota State (71-56) in the second round and fifth-seeded Virginia Commonwealth (78-53) in the third. The Jayhawks have had a more difficult time advancing. They beat 16th-seeded Western Kentucky in their opener (64-57) followed by a win against eighth-seeded North Carolina (70-58).

Kansas features four seniors in its starting lineup: center Jeff Withey, forward Kevin Young and guards Elijah Johnson and Travis Releford. By contrast, none of Michigan’s top nine scorers is a senior. The Wolverines don’t have a true center on their roster, so look for them to employ a combination of players against Withey, a skilled 7-footer. Mitch McGary, a 6-10 freshman who averages 18.4 minutes, will likely get the first shot.

TV: 7:47 p.m. ET, TBS.

ABOUT MICHIGAN (28-7, 16-16-1 ATS): Trey Burke has done some things in this tournament that he hasn’t done all season. In the opener against South Dakota State, the sophomore point guard and Big Ten Player of the Year scored in single digits for the first time this season, shooting a season-worst 2-for-12 and scoring six points in Auburn Hills, Mich. He came back with 18 points against VCU but committed a season-high seven turnovers. That number stood out even more because Burke is fourth in the nation in assist-to-turnover ratio (3.11).

ABOUT KANSAS (31-5, 20-15-0 ATS): The Jayhawks have their own budding superstar in freshman guard Ben McLemore, but he’s also struggling lately. He missed all nine field-goal attempts against North Carolina and scored a season-low two points. He nearly had as many turnovers (four) as field-goal attempts (five) against Western Kentucky and hasn’t reached his 15.8 scoring average in the last four games dating to the Big 12 tournament semifinals. McLemore is capable of going on scoring sprees, having notched 30 or more points three times this season.

TRENDS:

* Wolverines are 4-1 ATS in their last five NCAA Tournament games.
* Jayhawks are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 vs. Big Ten.
* Over is 15-7-1 in Wolverines' last 23 non-conference games.
* Under is 23-11 in Jayhawks' last 34 non-conference games.

TIP-INS:

1. Kansas is 29-9 all-time as a No. 1 seed in the tournament, but 3-4 against the No. 4 seed.

2. Withey averages 16.5 points, 11 rebounds and 3.9 blocks, which ranks second in the nation.

3. The winner is guaranteed to play a Florida-based team for the first time this season, facing third-seeded Florida or 15-seeded Florida Gulf Coast in the Elite Eight.

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles vs. Florida Gators (-13, 135)

The NCAA could not have picked a more appropriate venue than Cowboys Stadium to host the South Regional of the NCAA Tournament. The home of America's team will become the domain for America's newest darlings when upstart Florida Gulf Coast plays in-state powerhouse Florida on Friday in Arlington, Tex. The Eagles became the first No. 15 seed in NCAA history to reach the Sweet 16 by blitzing No. 2 seed Georgetown and No. 7 San Diego State.

While Florida Gulf Coast has captivated the nation, the third-seeded Gators are flying under the radar with dominant wins over Northwestern State and Minnesota to reach the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive season. Florida looked like the best team in the country earlier in the season, rolling off 10 straight wins with ease before struggling down the stretch. The Gators are no strangers to the NCAA's biggest stage, having won national championships in 2006 and 2007.

TV: 9:57 p.m. ET, TBS.

ABOUT FLORIDA GULF COAST (26-10, 6-0-0 ATS): The Eagles have appeared unflappable through two games, riding the wondrous skills of sophomore point guard Brett Comer, the all-around play of backourt mate Sherwood Brown - the Atlantic Sun Conference Player of the Year - and some high-flying antics that have earned them the moniker "Dunk City." Bernard Thompson scored 23 points in both tournament wins as Florida Gulf Coast continues to bear little resemblance to the team that lost to Lipscomb (twice), East Tennessee State, Stetson and Maine. "They play with a swagger, and they have a right to do that," San Diego State coach Steve Fisher said.

ABOUT FLORIDA (28-7, 18-14-0 ATS): The Gators are well equipped to match up against the Eagles. Florida has a deep, experience lineup that features five players averaging between 12.8 and 9.2 points. Point guard Scottie Wilbekin is joined in the backcourt by 2,000-point scorer Kenny Boynton and Mike Rosario, who had a career-best 25 points against Minnesota. Forward Erik Murphy provides punch inside, averaging 16.5 points and shooting 72.2 percent in the tournament. Florida thrives on defense, having held 24 opponents under 60 points and limiting 13 to fewer than 50. Finally, coach Billy Donovan knows a little about the dangers of a Cinderella squad. He played point guard and led Providence to the Final Four in 1987.

TRENDS:

* Eagles are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games overall.
* Gators are 18-5 ATS in their last 23 NCAA Tournament games.
* Over is 5-2 in Eagles' last seven overall.
* Over is 13-5 in Gators' last 18 NCAA Tournament games.

TIP-INS:

1. Florida, one of four programs to reach the Sweet 16 the past three seasons, is 5-1 in regional semifinals under Donovan.

2. Florida Gulf Coast joined the Atlantic Sun in 2007, and this season marked only its second year of eligibility for Division I postseason play.

3. Donovan is one of only four men (Dean Smith, Joe B. Hall and Bobby Knight) to appear in a Final Four as a player and win an NCAA title as a coach.

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NCAAB

Friday, March 29

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Where the action is: Friday's Sweet 16 dogs drawing bets
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The second slate of Sweet 16 games Friday is a little more wide open compared to Thursday’s spreads. Teams like Oregon and Florida Gulf Coast are getting double-digits from the oddsmakers, but that isn't scaring off bettors.

We talk with Bert Osborne, sportsbook manager at South Point in Las Vegas, and Michael Stewart, oddsmaker for CarbonSports.ag, about the betting action heading into Friday’s regional semifinal games:

Louisville Cardinals vs. Oregon Ducks – Open: +9.5, Move: +10

The early money on the spread has bumped this No. 1 vs. No. 12 matchup to double digits. But since the move, books have taken two-way action, even seeing a slight lean toward the upstart Ducks in terms of parlay action. The total has also been adjusted, jumping from 127.5 point to 130.

“They pushed it up from the original number,” says Osborne. “We had some sharp money come in this morning and drive this one up.”

Michigan Wolverines vs. Kansas Jayhawks – Open: -2.5, Move: -1.5, Move: -2

With two big-name programs involved, the public money will likely be split between Michigan and Kansas. Osborne says, depending on where the wiseguys go, there could be a hook come tipoff.

“These are heavyweights. And sometimes people don’t know who to bet and they’d rather sit back and watch this one,” he says.

CarbonSports.ag is seeing more money coming back on Michigan and could drop this spread again by Friday night.

"If anything, I can see us going back to Kansas -1.5 as more money is starting to show for the dog in this game," says Stewart.

Action on the total has also been split, with the number moving up as high as 136.5.

"We've seen more over money on this game, but not enough to move off our number," adds Stewart. "As we get closer to game time and the public starts betting more on the over, I can see us going higher."

Michigan State Spartans vs. Duke Blue Devils – Open: -1, Move: -2

Duke opened only briefly as a 1-point favorite for this regional semifinal showdown. Sharp money jumped on the Blue Devils and bumped the spread to -2, which is drawing good two-way money heading towards Friday.

“It’s dead even right now,” says Osborne. “It’s like Democrats and Republicans. There’s a strong opinion for MSU and a strong opinion for Duke.”

The total has moved slightly from 133.5 to 134 points.

"We opened 134 and while 70 percent of the action is on the under, we believe we'll see over money being bet on this game as we get closer to game time," says Stewart.

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles vs. Florida Gators – Open: -11.5, Move: -13

While sharp money pushed this spread to as high as -13, Osborne says the public is backing the Cinderella Eagles in this Sweet 16 game. Osborne moved to Florida -13 but thought it was too high, he’s also brought FGCU’s moneyline odds down, not wanting to risk another shocker from the Eagles.

“Last Sunday, the dogs went 5-3 but for us they really went 4-4 because the public was all over Florida Gulf Coast like it was a favorite,” says Osborne. “And they’re on them for this game as well. And they’re really whacking the moneyline.”

CarbonSports.ag watched wiseguys push Florida as high as -13.5 before settling back down to -13. Stewart also expects the public to pour in on the No. 15 seed FGCU on Friday.

"We're back to Florida -13 as 60 percent of the action is on them," he says. "It's a game where the public is all over the underdog and the wiseguys are pounding the favorite."

The total for this game has climbed from 132.5 to 135 points.

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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:39 AM

NBA
Dunkel

Oklahoma City at Minnesota
The Thunder look to build on their 10-2 ATS record in their last 12 games versus a team with a losing SU record. Oklahoma City is the pick (-7 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Thunder favored by 10 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (-7 1/2). Here are all of today's picks.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

Game 851-852: Washington at Orlando (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 116.899; Orlando 112.191
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 4 1/2; 186
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 853-854: Philadelphia at Cleveland (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 116.165; Cleveland 116.592
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 197
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia by 2; 193 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+2); Over

Game 855-856: Atlanta at Boston (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 117.017; Boston 122.651
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 5 1/2; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Boston by 1 1/2; 195
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-1 1/2); Under

Game 857-858: Toronto at Detroit (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 108.752; Detroit 108.708
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 209
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 859-860: Charlotte at New York (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Charlotte 107.185; New York 125.288
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 18; 206
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 861-862: Oklahoma City at Minnesota (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 127.069; Minnesota 116.468
Dunkel Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 10 1/2; 200
Vegas Line & Total: Oklahoma City by 7 1/2; 203 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (-7 1/2); Under

Game 863-864: Miami at New Orleans (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 124.314; New Orleans 120.508
Dunkel Line & Total: Miami by 4; 199
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 865-866: Houston at Memphis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 116.861; Memphis 127.226
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 10 1/2; 190
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 5; 197
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (-5); Under

Game 867-868: LA Clippers at San Antonio (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Clippers 123.293; San Antonio 126.189
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 3; 208
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 869-870: Brooklyn at Denver (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Brooklyn 118.251; Denver 132.427
Dunkel Line & Total: Denver by 14; 201
Vegas Line & Total: Denver by 6 1/2; 205
Dunkel Pick: Denver (-6 1/2); Under

Game 871-872: Utah at Portland (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 117.965; Portland 120.710
Dunkel Line & Total: Portland by 2 1/2; 205
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:44 AM

NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, March 29

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WASHINGTON (26 - 45) at ORLANDO (18 - 54) - 3/29/2013, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 7-4 against the spread versus ORLANDO over the last 3 seasons
ORLANDO is 8-3 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PHILADELPHIA (28 - 43) at CLEVELAND (22 - 48) - 3/29/2013, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 27-14 ATS (+11.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 35-23 ATS (+9.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 49-32 ATS (+13.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 27-13 ATS (+12.7 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 5-4 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 6-3 straight up against CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ATLANTA (40 - 32) at BOSTON (37 - 34) - 3/29/2013, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 58-86 ATS (-36.6 Units) in a road game where where the total is between 190 and 194.5 points since 1996.
BOSTON is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in home games second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) in home games in March games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) against Southeast division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 9-6 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 10-5 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
9 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TORONTO (26 - 45) at DETROIT (24 - 48) - 3/29/2013, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 5-4 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 6-3 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CHARLOTTE (17 - 54) at NEW YORK (44 - 26) - 3/29/2013, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 4-4 against the spread versus CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
NEW YORK is 6-2 straight up against CHARLOTTE over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OKLAHOMA CITY (53 - 19) at MINNESOTA (25 - 45) - 3/29/2013, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 42-28 ATS (+11.2 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 41-25 ATS (+13.5 Units) as a favorite this season.
MINNESOTA is 19-33 ATS (-17.3 Units) in home games second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
MINNESOTA is 20-36 ATS (-19.6 Units) after scoring 105 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 156-203 ATS (-67.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 6-4 against the spread versus OKLAHOMA CITY over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-1 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MIAMI (56 - 15) at NEW ORLEANS (25 - 47) - 3/29/2013, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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HOUSTON (39 - 32) at MEMPHIS (47 - 24) - 3/29/2013, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MEMPHIS is 40-29 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all games this season.
MEMPHIS is 30-21 ATS (+6.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
MEMPHIS is 68-48 ATS (+15.2 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 59-39 ATS (+16.1 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 61-31 ATS (+26.9 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 3 seasons.
MEMPHIS is 31-17 ATS (+12.3 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 90-62 ATS (+21.8 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
HOUSTON is 80-47 ATS (+28.3 Units) in road games off a upset loss as a favorite since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 5-5 against the spread versus HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 6-4 straight up against MEMPHIS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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LA CLIPPERS (49 - 23) at SAN ANTONIO (54 - 17) - 3/29/2013, 8:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 7-6 against the spread versus LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 9-4 straight up against LA CLIPPERS over the last 3 seasons
7 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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BROOKLYN (42 - 29) at DENVER (49 - 24) - 3/29/2013, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BROOKLYN is 12-21 ATS (-11.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
DENVER is 44-29 ATS (+12.1 Units) in all games this season.
DENVER is 30-20 ATS (+8.0 Units) as a favorite this season.
DENVER is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) in home games this season.
DENVER is 65-45 ATS (+15.5 Units) second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 78-54 ATS (+18.6 Units) in home games on Friday nights since 1996.
DENVER is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
DENVER is 24-13 ATS (+9.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BROOKLYN is 65-42 ATS (+18.8 Units) in road games off an upset win as an underdog since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
BROOKLYN is 4-0 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 2-2 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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UTAH (36 - 36) at PORTLAND (33 - 38) - 3/29/2013, 10:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PORTLAND is 5-5 against the spread versus UTAH over the last 3 seasons
UTAH is 6-4 straight up against PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:46 AM

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, March 29

Hot Teams
-- Wizards won six of their last nine games (2-6 last eight on road).
-- 76ers are 5-4 in last nine games (2-2 AF).
-- Hawks won six of last nine games (4-0 last four on road).
-- Bobcats are 3-2 in their last five games (0-8 last eight AU). New York won its last six games, covered last seven (3-0 last three HF).
-- Thunder won last three games, by 8-23-20 points (3-7 last ten AF).
-- Miami had its 27-game win streak snapped Wednesday (10-4 last 14 AF). Hornets won three of last four games (4-2 last six HU).
-- Rockets won five of last seven games (6-2 last eight AU).
-- Clippers won three of last four games (7-4 AU). San Antonio won five of its last six games (2-5 last seven HF).
-- Nets won four of their last five games (4-0 last four AU). Denver won its last seventeen home games (7-2 last nine HF).
-- Jazz won its last two games, covered its last five (3-0 last three AU).

Cold Teams
-- Magic lost their last eight games (1-4 vs spread last five).
-- Cavaliers lost their last six games (11-15 last 26 HU).
-- Celtics lost five of their last six games (4-1 last five HF).
-- Raptors lost their last five games (1-2 AF). Detroit lost 11 of its last 12 games (1-6 last seven HU).
-- Minnesota lost 14 of last 19 games (4-2 last six HU).
-- Memphis lost three of last four games, but won last ten home games (2-6 last eight HF).
-- Portland lost four of its last six games (5-1 last six HF).

Totals
-- Five of last seven Orlando games went over the total.
-- Six of last eight Cleveland games stayed under the total.
-- Six of last eight Atlanta games went over the total.
-- Last five Toronto games went over the total.
-- Four of last five New York games went over the total.
-- Last four Oklahoma City games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Hornet games stayed under the total.
-- Nine of last ten Houston games stayed under the total.
-- Four of last five Clipper games went over the total.
-- Last eight Brooklyn games went over the total.
-- Under is 3-1-1 in last five Portland games.

Back-to-backs
-- None.

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:48 AM

NBA

Friday, March 29

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

7:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. ORLANDO
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Washington's last 11 games when playing on the road against Orlando
Washington is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games on the road
Orlando is 4-13 ATS in its last 17 games at home
Orlando is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games

7:30 PM
CHARLOTTE vs. NEW YORK
Charlotte is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing New York
Charlotte is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New York's last 5 games at home
New York is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:30 PM
ATLANTA vs. BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Atlanta's last 8 games
Atlanta is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Boston
Boston is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Boston is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

7:30 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. CLEVELAND
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
Philadelphia is 6-16 SU in its last 22 games
Cleveland is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
Cleveland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:30 PM
TORONTO vs. DETROIT
Toronto is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Toronto's last 7 games on the road
Detroit is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Detroit is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home

8:00 PM
HOUSTON vs. MEMPHIS
Houston is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games when playing Memphis
Houston is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Memphis's last 9 games
Memphis is 4-11 SU in its last 15 games when playing Houston

8:00 PM
MIAMI vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games on the road
Miami is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing New Orleans
New Orleans is 6-13 ATS in its last 19 games
New Orleans is 5-0-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Miami

8:00 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY vs. MINNESOTA
Oklahoma City is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games when playing Minnesota
Oklahoma City is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games at home
Minnesota is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City

8:30 PM
LA CLIPPERS vs. SAN ANTONIO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the LA Clippers last 5 games
LA Clippers are 2-4-1 ATS in their last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Antonio's last 6 games when playing LA Clippers
San Antonio is 21-4 SU in their last 25 games when playing LA Clippers

9:00 PM
BROOKLYN vs. DENVER
Brooklyn is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Denver
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Brooklyn's last 6 games when playing on the road against Denver
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Denver's last 5 games
Denver is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing Brooklyn

10:00 PM
UTAH vs. PORTLAND
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Utah's last 5 games when playing on the road against Portland
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Utah's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Portland's last 5 games when playing at home against Utah
Portland is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Utah

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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 08:51 AM

NBA

Friday, March 29

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Clippers at Spurs: What bettors need to know
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Los Angeles Clippers at San Antonio Spurs (-5.5, 199)

It's starting to look as though the road to the NBA Finals will go through San Antonio, and the Los Angeles Clippers will get a taste of what that entails when they travel to face the Spurs on Friday. San Antonio sits atop the Western Conference with a 1 1/2-game cushion over Oklahoma City in large part because of a 31-4 mark at home, where the Spurs have won six straight.

The Clippers have had the Spurs' number lately, winning their last three games in San Antonio and holding a 2-1 edge in the season series. They could use a win to preserve their No. 3 spot in the West, as Denver is only a 1/2 game behind Los Angeles and Memphis is 1 1/2 back. A win would also give the Clippers a franchise record, surpassing their 49 victories in 1974-75.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, Prime Ticket (Los Angeles), Fox Sports Southwest (San Antonio)

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (49-23): Los Angeles is enjoying the best season in franchise history and its magic number to clinch its first division title is two, but the Clippers have been up and down a bit lately. They're coming off a 105-91 win at New Orleans but are just 6-5 in their last 11 after winning eight of their previous nine. "It's all about improving throughout the season," coach Vinny Del Negro told the team's website. "I expect a lot from this team, but more importantly they expect a lot from themselves. We just want to play as consistently as possible."

ABOUT THE SPURS (54-17): If San Antonio is going to clinch the top seed in the playoffs, it won't come easily. Of the Spurs' remaining 12 games, eight are against teams in position to make the playoffs. "We've got some really tough games this part of the schedule down the stretch here," veteran forward Tim Duncan told reporters. "It's going to be tough for us, so we need to win every one we can get." They've had to scratch and claw to win two of their last three with an overtime victory over Utah and a 100-99 win over Denver sandwiched around a one-point loss at Houston.

TRENDS:

* Clippers are 0-5 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a winning record.
* Spurs are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Clippers’ last five overall.
* Underdog is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Duncan is averaging 20 points, 11.6 rebounds and 2.9 blocks in March.

2. Clippers C DeAndre Jordan is shooting 83.9 percent (47-for-56) from the field in the month of March. He has made 15 consecutive field goals.

3. Spurs PG Tony Parker, who is questionable with a sprained finger, has scored in double figures in a career-high 53 consecutive games.

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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 09:05 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Anaheim at Chicago
The Blackhawks look to take advantage of an Anaheim team that is 3-7 in its last 10 games in Chicago. Chicago is the pick (-155) according to Dunkel, which has the Blackhawks favored by 2 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-155). Here are all of today's picks.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

Game 51-52: New Jersey at Tampa Bay (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Jersey 10.608; Tampa Bay 11.771
Dunkel Line & Total: Tampa Bay by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Tampa Bay (-115); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-115); Under

Game 53-54: Minnesota at Dallas (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 12.888; Dallas 10.660
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas (-110); 5
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-110); Over

Game 55-56: Anaheim at Chicago (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Anaheim 10.360; Chicago 12.744
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 2 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago (-155); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-155); Under

Game 57-58: Columbus at Calgary (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Columbus 11.673; Calgary 10.941
Dunkel Line & Total: Columbus by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

NHL
Long Sheet

Friday, March 29

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NEW JERSEY (15-11-0-7, 37 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (14-18-0-1, 29 pts.) - 3/29/2013, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW JERSEY is 77-61 ATS (+10.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 84-63 ATS (+13.3 Units) second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
NEW JERSEY is 34-25 ATS (+59.4 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 260-350 ATS (+684.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.
TAMPA BAY is 116-176 ATS (-73.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the first half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW JERSEY is 7-3 (+3.1 Units) against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
NEW JERSEY is 7-3-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
8 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+6.3 Units)

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MINNESOTA (20-10-0-2, 42 pts.) at DALLAS (15-14-0-3, 33 pts.) - 3/29/2013, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 23-14 ATS (+38.0 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 177-112 ATS (+25.0 Units) after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game since 1996.
MINNESOTA is 20-12 ATS (+6.7 Units) in all games this season.
MINNESOTA is 20-12 ATS (+6.7 Units) second half of the season this season.
MINNESOTA is 10-3 ATS (+6.9 Units) in March games this season.
MINNESOTA is 12-4 ATS (+16.4 Units) after a 3 game unbeaten streak over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 15-5 ATS (+9.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MINNESOTA is 15-5 ATS (+9.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the first half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 6-4 (+0.6 Units) against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 6-4-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.4 Units)

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ANAHEIM (22-7-0-4, 48 pts.) at CHICAGO (25-4-0-3, 53 pts.) - 3/29/2013, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ANAHEIM is 12-22 ATS (+34.0 Units) after allowing 4 goals or more over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 25-7 ATS (+17.7 Units) in all games this season.
CHICAGO is 25-7 ATS (+12.6 Units) second half of the season this season.
CHICAGO is 320-336 ATS (-54.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.
ANAHEIM is 22-11 ATS (+9.0 Units) in all games this season.
ANAHEIM is 22-11 ATS (+9.0 Units) second half of the season this season.
ANAHEIM is 9-2 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
ANAHEIM is 9-2 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ANAHEIM is 5-5 (+1.1 Units) against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-5-0 straight up against ANAHEIM over the last 3 seasons
8 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+5.8 Units)

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COLUMBUS (13-14-0-7, 33 pts.) at CALGARY (13-15-0-4, 30 pts.) - 3/29/2013, 9:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLUMBUS is 5-5 (+0.5 Units) against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
CALGARY is 5-5-0 straight up against COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+0.0 Units)

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NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, March 29

Hot teams
-- Minnesota won its last seven games, scoring 30 runs.
-- Blackhawks won ten of last twelve home games.

Cold teams
-- Devils lost seven of their last eight road games. Tampa Bay lost three of four overall.
-- Dallas Stars are 4-7 in their last eleven home games.
-- Anaheim lost its last four games, outscored 16-5.
-- Flames lost four of their last five games. Columbus lost six of last seven on road.

Totals
-- Last six Devil-Lightning games went over the total.
-- Five of last six Dallas games went over the total.
-- Eight of last ten Anaheim-Chicago games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last seven Calgary games went over the total.

Series records
-- Devils won seven of last ten games with Tampa Bay.
-- Minnesota is 2-0 vs Dallas this season, winning 1-0/7-4.
-- Ducks won their last three games against Chicago.
-- Blue Jackets lost three of last four visits to Calgary.

NHL

Friday, March 29

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Trend Report
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7:30 PM
NEW JERSEY vs. TAMPA BAY
New Jersey is 17-4 SU in its last 21 games when playing Tampa Bay
New Jersey is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing New Jersey
Tampa Bay is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against New Jersey

8:30 PM
ANAHEIM vs. CHICAGO
Anaheim is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Anaheim's last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Chicago is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Anaheim
Chicago is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home

8:30 PM
MINNESOTA vs. DALLAS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 7 games
Minnesota is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games at home
Dallas is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

9:00 PM
COLUMBUS vs. CALGARY
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Columbus's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Columbus's last 13 games on the road
Calgary is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Calgary's last 7 games at home

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NHL

Friday, March 29

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The biggest Stanley Cup futures moves this season
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If you haven't been watching the NHL over the past few days you might want to start. There is a playoff intensity in the air with only a dozen or so games left on the schedule for most squads and 14 teams in each conference still very much in the playoff hunt.

With the playoffs on the horizon, let's review the biggest Stanley Cup moves this shortened season at online sportsbook William Hill. Odds reflect where they stood before the first game of the year to where they sit Thursday, March 29.

Favorites:
Chicago Blackhawks 12-1 to 9-2
Pittsburgh Penguins 7-1 to 5-1
Boston Bruins 16-1 to 15-2

Biggest moves up:
Columbus Blue Jackets 150-1 to 66-1
Montreal Canadiens 50-1 to 10-1
Anaheim Ducks 40-1 to 10-1
Minnesota Wild 25-1 to 12-1

Biggest moves down:
Florida Panthers 50-1 to 750-1
Colorado Avalanche 66-1 to 500-1
Buffalo Sabres 25-1 to 125-1
Calgary Flames 66-1 to 150-1
Tampa Bay Lightning 25 to 1 to 100-1
Philadelphia Flyers 14-1 to 66-1
Edmonton Oilers 40-1 to 80-1

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**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 04:24 PM

NHL
Short Sheet

Friday, March 29

New Jersey at Tampa Bay, 7:35 ET
New Jersey: 2-8 SU off a road loss
Tampa Bay: 8-1 OVER in home games after 2 or more consecutive unders

Minnesota at Dallas, 8:35 ET
Minnesota: 10-3 SU in March
Dallas: 6-0 OVER when playing with 3 or more days rest

Anaheim at Chicago, 8:35 ET NHL
Anaheim: 3-12 SU off a road loss by 2 goals or more
Chicago: 12-2 SU after playing a home game

Columbus at Calgary, 9:05 ET
Columbus: 9-29 SU off a road loss by 2 goals or more
Calgary: 6-0 SU in home games revenging a same season loss vs opponent

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 04:25 PM

NBA
Short Sheet

Friday, March 29

Washington at Orlando, 7:05 ET
Washington: 20-9 ATS after a non-conference game
Orlando: 5-13 ATS after failing to cover 3 of their last 4 against the spread

Philadelphia at Cleveland, 7:35 ET
Philadelphia: 3-12 ATS after covering 3 of their last 4 against the spread
Cleveland: 34-18 ATS when playing only their 2nd game in 7 days

Atlanta at Boston, 7:35 ET
Atlanta: 19-8 ATS in road games after having won 2 of their last 3 games
Boston: 7-18 ATS after 2 straight games where they were called for 18 or less fouls

Toronto at Detroit, 7:35 ET
Toronto: 14-3 ATS after scoring 90 points or less 2 straight games
Detroit: 16-29 ATS revenging a loss vs opponent

Charlotte at New York, 7:35 ET
Charlotte: 0-7 ATS in road games in March
New York: 9-1 ATS in home games when playing their 3rd game in 4 days

Oklahoma City at Minnesota, 8:05 ET
Oklahoma City: 13-4 ATS after a blowout win by 20 points or more
Minnesota: 2-11 ATS vs. division opponents

Miami at New Orleans, 8:05 ET NBATV
Miami: 37-21 UNDER when playing 8 or more games in 14 days
New Orleans: 12-3 ATS after having won 3 of their last 4 games

Houston at Memphis, 8:05 ET
Houston: 10-21 ATS in road games after 1 or more consecutive unders
Memphis: 7-0 ATS in home games after having lost 2 of their last 3

LA Clippers at San Antonio, 8:35 ET
LA Clippers: 67-94 ATS against Southwest division opponents
San Antonio: 20-11 ATS after a game where they failed to cover the spread

Brooklyn at Denver, 9:05 ET
Brooklyn: 6-17 ATS in road games after playing 2 consecutive road games
Denver: 22-11 ATS as a home favorite

Utah at Portland, 10:05 ET
Utah: 9-21 ATS in road games revenging a loss vs opponent
Portland: 23-8 ATS in home games after playing a game as favorite

**Udog** · 03-29-2013, 04:28 PM

NBA

Friday, March 29

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Fullcourt press: Friday's NBA betting notes
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Washington Wizards at Orlando Magic (+3.5, 196.5)

The over-under for healthy bodies will be about eight when the injury-riddled Washington Wizards visit the decimated Orlando Magic on Friday. A combination of injuries and illness - namely the flu - left the Wizards with only eight players available for Wednesday's game at Oklahoma City. The Wizards may be getting some reinforcements back against Orlando, which also had eight players in uniform for Wednesday's 114-108 loss in Charlotte. The Wizards have won two of three meetings this season, with the home team prevailing each time.

Atlanta Hawks at Boston Celtics (-3, 194)

The Celtics snapped a five-game slide by barely topping the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday and are trying to survive a two-week stretch without defensive anchor Kevin Garnett. Atlanta has won six of its last nine and is trying to close out a four-game road trip with a winning mark. The last two meetings have gone to overtime, with the home team winning each. The Celtics are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 home games.

Charlotte Bobcats at New York Knicks (-14, 197)

The New York Knicks have rebounded from their worst stretch with one of their best and will go a for a season-high seventh straight victory when they host lowly Charlotte. The Knicks have also won four straight meetings, including a two-point decision at Charlotte on Dec. 5. The over is 4-0 in New York’s last four home games.

Toronto Raptors at Detroit Pistons (-1.5, 195)

The Detroit Pistons haven’t won a home game since Feb. 13 and lost their last two such contests by an average of 30 points. Detroit seeks to end a seven-game home losing streak when it hosts the sliding Toronto Raptors. The Raptors have lost five straight and 12 of their last 15. Toronto is winless in its last four visits to Detroit and has played over the total in its last five games overall.

Philadelphia 76ers at Cleveland Cavaliers (+2, 194)

The Sixers are coming off a win over eighth-place Milwaukee on Wednesday, but they still sit seven games back of the Bucks in the race for the final playoff spot. Philadelphia has dropped 16 of its last 17 road games, but Cleveland has lost six in a row after Wednesday's collapse against Boston, which used a 21-6 run to close out the game. The Cavaliers are 5-0 ATS in their last five games vs. a team with a winning percentage below .400.

Houston Rockets at Memphis Grizzlies (-4.5, 195)

The Memphis Grizzlies will try to claim their fifth consecutive home win over the Houston Rockets - and their 10th straight overall at FedEx Forum - on Friday night. The home team has won the past nine meetings dating to Houston's last victory in Memphis on Dec. 3, 2010. The Rockets have played under the total in seven consecutive games.

Miami Heat at New Orleans Hornets (+5.5, 189.5)

With their pursuit of the longest winning streak in NBA history now over, the Miami Heat can set their sights on starting another one when they visit the New Orleans Hornets on Friday. The Heat saw their 27-game run, the second-longest in league history, come to an end in Chicago on Wednesday. The team's first loss since Feb. 1 prevented Miami from clinching the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, a near-inevitable result that likely will occur on their current four-game road trip. The Heat are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a loss.

Oklahoma City Thunder at Minnesota Timberwolves (+8, 202.5)

Oklahoma City has held each of its last four opponents to 90 or fewer points and is coming off a 103-80 drubbing of the Washington Wizards. But Minnesota beat the Thunder 99-93 at the Target Center on Dec. 20 behind 28 points and 11 boards from Kevin Love, who is still out with a hand injury. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.

Los Angeles Clippers at San Antonio Spurs (-4, 197.5)

The Clippers have had the Spurs' number lately, winning their last three games in San Antonio and holding a 2-1 edge in the season series. They could use a win to preserve their No. 3 spot in the West, as Denver is only a half-game behind Los Angeles and Memphis is 1 1/2 back. A win would also give the Clippers a franchise record, surpassing their 49 victories in 1974-75. The Spurs are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games overall.

Brooklyn Nets at Denver Nuggets (-6.5, 203.5)

Guard Joe Johnson scored a game-high 26 points in the Nets’ 119-108 win over Denver on Feb. 13, but he could miss his third straight game due to a right quadriceps contusion. Denver is 31-8 all-time at home against the Nets, including five straight wins. Brooklyn has played over the number in eight consecutive games.

Utah Jazz at Portland Trail Blazers (-2, 196)

The Utah Jazz attempt to end their longest road losing streak in 31 years when they visit the Trail Blazers. Utah has lost nine straight away games, the franchise’s worst stretch since a 17-game skid during the 1981-82 campaign. The teams have split two meetings this season and the over is 5-0 in the last five meetings in Portland.

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Announcement

Friday's Trends and Indexes - 3/29 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

Friday's Trends and Indexes - 3/29 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

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