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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 08:49 AM

Armadillo: Sunday's six-pack

Odds to win next fall's college football championship......

3-1-- Alabama-- Why not? They've won the last two years.

8-1-- Oregon-- Can the new coach maintain their momentum?

10-1-- LSU-- If Les Miles plays Scrabble, he probably tries to use words that don't exist, just to see if he can get away with it.

10-1-- Ohio State-- Urban Meyer's daughter plays volleyball at that noted sports factory, Florida Gulf Coast.

14-1-- Texas A&M-- Kind of high for a team with a sophomore QB-- oh wait, forget I said that (it was a JOKE!!!!).

15-1-- Florida and Florida State. Four SEC teams in the top seven.

*****

Armadillo: Sunday's List of 13: Wrapping up a sports Saturday.......

13) Steve Alford to UCLA? Wow. He gets $2.6M a year for seven years and his son Bryce, who scored 37 ppg in high school this year, gets an upgrade from playing in the Pit to Pauley Pavilion, while still playing for his dad. So UCLA wins the press conference, hiring a famous name to replace the fired Ben Howland, who made it to three Final Fours in ten years.

12) Like we said, Howland made it to three Final Fours in Westwood; he won the Pac-12 regular season this year, was 25-10 and he got canned. There are significant expectations involved with coaching the Bruins. Alford seems to be a good coach but his record in the NCAAs is 5-7. Uh-oh.

11) Alford is hoping his assistant coach Craig Neal replaces him with the Lobos, since New Mexico has everyone back next year and figures to win the Mountain West again. New Mexico gets tremendous crowd support and they recruit well, so its a good job that also has high expectations.

10) Alford recently signed a 10-year extension at New Mexico, but these days, contracts don't mean much-- the extension was going to start Monday, but instead, New Mexico is looking for its new coach, and Alford is house shopping and then recruiting. Coaching is an interesting profession.

9) Wichita State has six players who played JC basketball; all three of their assistant coaches also once worked at junior colleges.

8) Not sure why, but it bothers me when TV announcers call Syracuse "the 'cuse". So many of ESPN's play-by-play guys went to Syracuse, can't help but think they get preferential treatment from the media. Lets see how the media deals with it when they go on probation soon, and they are going to go on probation, if half of what is being written is true.

7) All minor league baseball players have to wear the two-flap batting helmets now, but major leaguers don't have to.

6) One of these years, would be nice if A's didn't open the season with the Mariners, so they didn't have to see Felix Hernandez in the opener. In 2012, they played Seattle over in Japan, so they had to face Hernandez in both the first and third games. Not the best planning there.

5) It never ends: a horse ran at Golden Gate Saturday: Trust in Tebow.

4) Kevin Kolb gets $13M for two years from Buffalo; what has this guy done to keep getting paid so much money?

3) Syracuse 55, Marquette 39-- Eagles shot 22.6% from floor. Gardner was 6-9, rest of team was a miserable 6-44. Marquette played scared.

2) Wichita State 70, Ohio State 66-- Shockers led 53-33 with 11:30 left in game, hung on for dear life to become first #9 seed to make Final Four in 64-team era of tournament. Penn was a #9 seed that made it back in 1979.

1) Its a cold world; weird seeing Johan Santana getting released in our 16-team fantasy baseball league, and knowing no one will pick him up.

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 08:57 AM

NCAAB
Dunkel

Duke vs. Louisville
The Blue Devils look to build on their 8-2 ATS record in their last 10 neutral site games. Duke is the pick (+4) according to Dunkel, which has the Cardinals favored by only 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Duke (+4). Here are all of today's games.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Game 711-712: Duke vs. Louisville (5:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Duke 76.418; Louisville 77.715
Dunkel Line: Louisville by 1 1/2; 142
Vegas Line: Louisville by 4; 137
Dunkel Pick: Duke (+4); Over

Game 713-714: Michigan vs. Florida (2:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Michigan 74.575; Florida 75.316
Dunkel Line: Florida by 1; 130
Vegas Line: Florida by 3; 132 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Michigan (+3); Under

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 31

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DUKE (30 - 5) vs. LOUISVILLE (32 - 5) - 3/31/2013, 2:10 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DUKE is 46-70 ATS (-31.0 Units) in March games since 1997.
LOUISVILLE is 44-28 ATS (+13.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 44-28 ATS (+13.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 50-34 ATS (+12.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 15-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) in all neutral court games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a neutral court favorite of 3.5 to 6 points over the last 3 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in March games this season.
LOUISVILLE is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) when playing with one or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in road games after a non-conference game over the last 3 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 15-3 ATS (+11.7 Units) when playing on a neutral court over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in road games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 18-3 ATS (+14.7 Units) in road games revenging a road loss vs opponent since 1997.
LOUISVILLE is 14-4 ATS (+9.6 Units) in all tournament games over the last 2 seasons.
LOUISVILLE is 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LOUISVILLE is 24-14 ATS (+8.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record after 15 or more games over the last 2 seasons.
DUKE is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in all neutral court games this season.
DUKE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in road games after a non-conference game this season.
DUKE is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) when playing on a neutral court this season.
DUKE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in road games in non-conference games this season.

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

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MICHIGAN (29 - 7) vs. FLORIDA (29 - 7) - 3/31/2013, 4:55 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MICHIGAN is 3-10 ATS (-8.0 Units) versus good defensive teams - allowing <=64 points/game after 15+ games this season.
FLORIDA is 100-71 ATS (+21.9 Units) in non-conference games since 1997.
FLORIDA is 62-36 ATS (+22.4 Units) in all tournament games since 1997.
MICHIGAN is 57-38 ATS (+15.2 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 57-38 ATS (+15.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 23-12 ATS (+9.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
MICHIGAN is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in all neutral court games this season.
MICHIGAN is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
MICHIGAN is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) when playing on a neutral court this season.
MICHIGAN is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in non-conference games this season.
MICHIGAN is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in all tournament games this season.
MICHIGAN is 48-30 ATS (+15.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 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

Sunday, March 31

NCAA Tournament, Elite Eight

Duke vs. Louisville, 2:10 ET CBS
Duke: 0-8 ATS off 3+ games allowing 55 points or less
Louisville: 15-3 ATS playing on a neutral court

Michigan vs. Florida, 4:55 ET CBS
Michigan: 7-1 ATS playing on a neutral court
Florida: 1-7 ATS off ATS wins in 2 of their last 3 games

NCAAB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 31

Sunday's games
Florida still hasn't won a game by less than 10 points this year, so if this is a tense struggle, their 0-6 record in single digit games cannot be a help. Gators are 2-0 vs Big Dozen teams, beating Wisconsin/Minnesota by 18, 14 points. Michigan was all but dead Friday, down 14 with 6:51 to play, 10 with 2:32 left, but pulled game out; four starters played 39+ minutes Friday-- a fifth played 35. Donovan is 3-2 in regional finals, but lost last two years, to Butler/Louisville; Gators are #28 in country in experience, Wolverines #342, big edge there. Florida hasn't been taxed yet, beating seeds #14-11-15 to get here. Michigan is #1 team in country protecting the ball; Beilein lost his only regional final to Louisville in OT in 2005. Underdogs are 5-1 vs spread in last six regional finals that didn't involve a #1 or #2 seed.

Since '85, Coach K is 11-1 in regional finals, 3-0 when he is a #2 seed vs a #1 (he also lost as a #1 vs a #2). Louisville-Duke last met in NCAAs in '86, when Cardinals won 72-69 in national title game; Duke (even) beat Louisville 76-71 on a neutral court Nov 24, when both teams had played previous two days, and game that Dieng sat out. Duke outscored Cards 23-9 on foul line, but made just 5-25 on arc. Louisville is 13-0 since loss in 5-OT's to Notre Dame, winning last eight games by 8+ points. Take a look at regional finals involving #1 vs #2 seeds: Since 2003, #2-seeds are 9-3 vs #1-seeds in regional finals, despite being underdog in nine of the 12 games. Duke is #4 in country at protecting ball, but their subs took only one shot Friday; they used four starters 36+ minutes.

NCAAB

Sunday, March 31

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Trend Report
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2:20 PM
MICHIGAN vs. FLORIDA
No trends available
Florida is 4-8 ATS in its last 12 games
Florida is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

5:05 PM
DUKE 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

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 31

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Michigan vs. Florida: What bettors need to know
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Michigan Wolverines vs. Florida Gators (-2.5, 131)

Michigan is part of the Elite Eight for the first time in 19 years while Florida is part of the festivities for the third straight season when the two squads meet in Sunday’s South Regional final at Arlington, Texas. The third-seeded Gators are attempting to reach the Final Four for the first time since 2007, when they won the second of back-to-back national championships. The fourth-seeded Wolverines are still alive due to an epic comeback to beat Kansas in overtime.

Michigan trailed by 10 points with less than three minutes left in regulation against the Jayhawks before Big Ten Player of the Year Trey Burke caught fire, scoring eight points in the final 75 seconds and forcing overtime with a 28-foot 3-pointer. “We love coaching him because he’s got courage,” Wolverines coach John Beilein said afterward. Florida ousted tournament Cinderella Florida Gulf Coast with strong defensive play that included 20 turnovers. The next task is ending the streak of two straight losses in regional title games. “It’s so hard just a win a tournament game, never mind advance,” Gators coach Billy Donovan said.

TV: 12:20 p.m. ET, CBS

ABOUT FLORIDA (29-7): The Gators lack superstars and the rotation is only eight players deep but anyone can emerge as the key player during any given contest. Senior guard Mike Rosario had 15 points against Florida Gulf Coast and is 10-of-19 from 3-point range during the tournament, while junior forward Casey Prather excelled off the bench with 11 points against the Eagles. “We wanted to come out and play with energy and help our team win,” Prather said of Florida’s strong bench contributions. “I think we did a great job of doing it. We made up our mind that we didn’t want to leave.” Rosario and senior forward Erik Murphy each averages 12.6 points. Senior guard Kenny Boynton chips in 12 points per game, junior center Patric Young averages 10.2 points and 6.3 rebounds and junior guard Scottie Wilbekin contributes 9.3 points and 4.9 assists.

ABOUT MICHIGAN (29-7): Freshman forward Mitch McGary has emerged as a star in the NCAA Tournament by averaging 19.7 points and 12.3 rebounds. McGary scored a season-high 25 points and matched a season best with 14 rebounds against the Jayhawks in just his fifth career start. “Coach has done a tremendous job of just allowing me for this opportunity to just get this many minutes, and be in the starting lineup,” McGary said afterward. “I’m honored to have it. He says if you play hard in practice, you’re going to earn these minutes.” McGary’s season averages are 7.3 points and a team-best 6.1 rebounds. Burke, a sophomore point guard, leads the Wolverines in scoring (18.9) and assists (6.9) and finished with 23 points and 10 assists against Kansas. Junior guard Tim Hardaway Jr. averages 14.8 points.

TRENDS:

* Wolverines are 5-1 ATS in their last six NCAA Tournament games.
* Under is 10-2 in Gators’ last 12 overall.
* Gators are 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a win.
* Wolverines are 7-1 ATS in their last eight neutral site games.

TIP-INS

1. Donovan has a 31-10 record in NCAA Tournament play and his .756 winning percentage is third among active coaches, trailing only Duke’s Mike Krzyzewski (.771) and Southern Methodist’s Larry Brown (.760).

2. The Wolverines haven’t won 30 games since compiling a 31-5 mark in 1992-93.

3. The winner faces either Syracuse or Marquette in the Final Four

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 31

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Duke vs. Louisville: What bettors need to know
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Duke Blue Devils vs. Louisville Cardinals (-3.5, 137)

Louisville is the final No. 1 seed remaining in the NCAA Tournament and looked unbeatable behind Russ Smith in the first three games. Making the Final Four is never easy, however, and the Cardinals will need to get through No. 2 seed Duke in the Midwest Regional Final on Sunday. The Blue Devils have not had much trouble in their trip to the Elite Eight, either, and like Louisville have plenty of experience going deep in the Tournament.

The Cardinals have won 13 straight games going back to the regular season and have lived up to the hype as the No. 1 overall seed thanks in part to a total of 81 points in three NCAA Tournament games by Russ Smith. Duke can match Smith and Louisville shot for shot with Seth Curry, who went for 29 points in the Sweet Sixteen win over Michigan State and is 10-for-20 from 3-point range in the Tournament. After being bounced by a No. 15 seed last season, the Blue Devils are trying to make their first Final Four appearance since winning the National Championship in 2010.

TV: 5:05 p.m. ET, CBS

ABOUT DUKE (30-5): Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski has not faced Louisville coach Rick Pitino in the NCAA Tournament since Christian Laettner’s historic shot against Kentucky in the 1992 Elite Eight ended one of the greatest college basketball games ever. Krzyzewski’s 2012-13 team is not quite the same, but it does have a plethora of scoring options. Curry was just the latest to take over for Duke after sharing the scoring load with Mason Plumlee in the opening game of the Tournament and letting freshman Rasheed Sulaimon take over in the third-round victory over Creighton. Sulaimon attacking the paint helped open things up for Curry to hit six 3-pointers in the 71-61 victory over the Spartans on Friday. All five starters scored at least 14 points the last time the Blue Devils faced the Cardinals, with Plumlee’s 16 points leading the way in a 76-71 win in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament on Nov. 24.

ABOUT LOUISVILLE (32-5): The Cardinals were without center Gorgui Dieng in the November meeting with Duke, but Peyton Siva collected 19 points and six steals and Smith scored 17 to keep things close. Dieng is shooting 87.5 percent in the Tournament and should make things more difficult for Plumlee this time around. Louisville has won its 13 straight games by an average of 17.3 points but was sluggish in the Sweet Sixteen win over Oregon due to a cold virus making its way through the squad. Smith had the worst of it on Friday but still managed 31 points in the 77-69 win. Siva spent most of the game in foul trouble but backup point guard Kevin Ware went 5-for-7 off the bench in his place. The Cardinals are largely the same team that reached the Final Four last season, though Smith has taken on a greater role.

TRENDS:

* Cardinals are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall.
* Under is 4-0 in Blue Devils’ last four NCAA Tournament games.
* Over is 7-0 in Cardinals’ last seven overall.

TIP-INS

1. The schools have not met in the NCAA Tournament since Louisville defeated Duke in the 1986 National Championship game.

2. Krzyzewski is attempting to reach his 12th Final Four, which would tie legendary UCLA coach John Wooden for the record.

3. Smith’s 81 points are the most ever for a Cardinals player in the first three games of the NCAA Tournament.

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NCAAB

Sunday, March 31

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NCAA's biggest betting mismatches: Sunday's Elite Eight
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Michigan Wolverines vs. Florida Gators (-2.5, 131)

Wolverines’ freshmen vs. Gators’ ability to create turnovers

Florida ousted Florida Gulf Coast with strong defensive play that included 20 turnovers. The Gators have forced an average of 16.3 turnovers in the tournament and reached elite status to their suffocating defense, which yields a mere 53.7 points per game on 38 percent field goal efficiency -- those last two figures ranking in the top-five nationally.

While Florida is loaded with seniors and NCAA tournament experience, the Wolverines have three freshmen in their starting lineup. Trey Burke and Co. showed they can handle the heat in their triumph over Kansas, but will truly be tested by the Florida defense Sunday. The Gators have been to this point in the tournament each of the last two years and could have the edge should the game come down to the wire.

Duke Blue Devils vs. Louisville Cardinals (-3.5, 137)

Blue Devils’ ability to pull away quickly vs. Cardinals’ 3-point shooting woes

Duke can score in a hurry because of its accuracy from long range. The Blue Devils ranked fifth in the country in 3-point percentage (40.3) and have the edge when it comes to putting space between them and the Cardinals. Sharpshooter Seth Curry was 6-for-9 from beyond the arc in Duke’s win over MSU.

Louisville could have a tough time playing catch-up as they don’t fire from 3-point land nearly as well as Duke. The Cardinals ranked 217th in the nation in 3-pointers made per game (5.7) and have averaged just over four per game in the tourney. Louisville went 4-for-13 from long range in its win over Oregon in the Sweet 16 and relies more on its ability to score points off turnovers.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 09:01 AM

MLB
Dunkel

Texas at Houston
The Astros look to take advantage of a Rangers team that is 1-4 in Matt Harrison's last 5 road starts. Houston is the pick (+140) according to Dunkel, which has the Astros favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Houston (+140). Here are all of today's picks.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Game 997-998: Texas at Houston (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Harrison) 14.514; Houston (Norris) 15.779
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Texas (-160); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+140); Over

MLB
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 31

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TEXAS (93 - 70) at HOUSTON (55 - 107) - 8:05 PM
MATT HARRISON (L) vs. BUD NORRIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS is 27-30 (-14.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 56-31 (+19.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
HARRISON is 16-3 (+13.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Sunday since 1997. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 112-213 (-64.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 110-212 (-66.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

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

MATT HARRISON vs. HOUSTON since 1997
HARRISON is 0-1 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 6.55 and a WHIP of 1.636.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

BUD NORRIS vs. TEXAS since 1997
No recent starts.

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MLB
Short Sheet

Sunday, March 31

Texas at Houston, 8:05 ET ESPN
Harrison: 16-3 TSR on Sundays
Norris: 2-12 TSR with a total of 8.5 to 10 runs

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 31

We'll have a lot more information up once the teams get a week or so under their belts. For the first week, its mostly starting pitchers and umpires- the pitchers' and umps' information, obviously, refers to last year's stats.

Hot pitchers
-- Norris was 2-2, 2.70 in his last six starts LY; he didn't allow a run in his last two starts (13.1 IP).

Cold pitchers
-- Harrison was 0-3, 4.34 in his last three road starts LY.

Totals
-- Three of last four Harrison starts stayed under the total.

Keep in mind Houston is an AL team now; there is a DH in this game.

MLB

Sunday, March 31

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Trend Report
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8:05 PM
TEXAS vs. HOUSTON
Texas is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
Texas is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Houston's last 9 games

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MLB

Sunday, March 31

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Rangers at Astros: What bettors need to know
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Texas Rangers at Houston Astros (+155, 8.5)

The Texas Rangers had a disappointing finish to the 2012 season and were left out of all the big-name signings during the offseason, leaving a few question marks heading into 2013. The Houston Astros, who open their first year in American League play by hosting the Rangers on Sunday night, have a less positive outlook for the season. The Astros have finished with the worst record in the majors in each of the last two seasons.

Houston agreed to move over to the AL as part of the sale of the team and will be transitioning from one of the worst divisions - the National League Central - to one that should be one of the most hotly-contested in the AL West. Texas is one of three teams in the West that won at least 89 games in 2012 and the fourth club - the Seattle Mariners - boasts a strong pitching staff. One thing Houston won’t have to deal with in its opening series is Josh Hamilton, who left the Rangers for the rival Los Angeles Angels over the winter.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, ESPN

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers LH Matt Harrison (2012: 18-11, 3.29 ERA) vs. Astros RH Bud Norris (2012: 7-13, 4.65)

Harrison inherits the No. 1 spot from Colby Lewis, who got the opening day nod last season but will begin 2013 on the disabled list after undergoing arm surgery. Texas was reportedly in the mix for the top arm on the free agent market, Zack Greinke, but fell short on that bid and will instead hand things off to the All-Star Harrison, who is coming off his best season. The left-hander is 0-1 in four career games - two starts - against Houston but has never allowed a hit to any of the current Astros players he has faced, most notably Carlos Pena (0-for-8) and Chris Carter (0-for-7).

Norris takes over the mantel of No. 1 starter for Houston this season after the team aggressively traded away veterans last summer. The 28-year-old right-hander has averaged just under one strikeout per inning in his career but has never beaten an AL opponent, going 0-1 with a 6.19 ERA in three career interleague starts. Norris has never faced the Rangers but has been a stronger pitcher in his career at Minute Maid Park with a 3.51 ERA in 48 starts.

TRENDS:

* Rangers are 14-2 in Harrison’s last 16 starts during game one of a series.
* Astros are 4-17 in Norris' last 21 starts.
* Under is 4-1 in Rangers’ last five road games.
* Under is 5-1 in Astros’ last six home games.

EXTRA INNINGS

1. Texas is 19-5 against Houston over the last four seasons.

2. Only two players that started on opening day last season for the Astros - second baseman Jose Altuve and catcher Jason Castro - are expected to be in Sunday’s lineup.

3. The Rangers brought in former Houston star Lance Berkman in the offseason and are expected to slot the 37-year-old in at DH.

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MLB

Sunday, March 31

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Best and worst MLB Opening Day bets
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The baseball season is a marathon, not a sprint. But it doesn’t hurt to get off on the right foot. The 2013 MLB schedule opens Sunday/Monday and we take a look back over the past 10 seasons to see which clubs come out swing and which one are still on spring break come Opening Day and Opening Week.

Records over the past 10 MLB seasons.

Best Opening Day bets

Los Angeles Angels – 8-2
Pittsburgh Pirates – 7-3
Baltimore Orioles – 7-3
New York Mets – 7-3
Seattle Mariners – 7-3

Worst Opening Day bets

Cleveland Indians – 2-8
Oakland Athletics – 2-8
Washington Nationals – 3-7

Best Opening Day home bets

Baltimore Orioles – 6-1
Los Angeles Angels – 5-1

Best Opening Day road bets

Chicago Cubs – 5-2
Pittsburgh Pirates – 5-1

Best Opening Day over bets

New York Yankees – 9-1 over/under
Cleveland Indians – 7-2-1 over/under
Milwaukee Brewers – 7-2-1 over/under

Best Opening Day under bets

Los Angeles Angels – 2-7-1 over/under
Texas Rangers – 2-6-2 over/under
Kansas City Royals – 4-6 over/under

Best Opening Day home over bets

Arizona Diamondbacks – 5-1 over/under
Miami Marlins – 5-2 over/under

Best Opening Day home under bets

Los Angeles Angels – 0-5-1over/under
Kansas City Royals – 2-4 over/under

Best Opening Day away over bets

New York Yankees – 6-0 over/under
Milwaukee Brewers – 5-1 over/under

Best Opening Day away under bets

Texas Rangers – 1-4 over/under
Oakland Athletics - 0-3 over/under

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MLB

Sunday, March 31

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April good month/bad month pitchers
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Listed below are hurlers (and their team start record) that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team starts the last three seasons during the month of April. On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in April team starts, winning 33 percent or less of their efforts. To qualify, pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each April over the last three years.

I'll be back next month with May's Good Month/Bad Month Pitchers. Until then, let's play ball!

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

A.J. Burnett, Pittsburgh Pirates

April record: 9-4

Burnett pitched last year like he did before playing for the Yankees, much more relaxed and confident. Not every player is wired to play under the intense New York microscope. Burnett had more command with his fastball in the Steel City and his circle-change was brutal on left-handed hitters.

Kevin Correia, Minnesota Twins

April record: 10-5

Correia is a control pitcher and has to keep his below 90 mph fastball and cutter down in the zone to be successful. He will have the early advantage of not being widely seen in the AL and could get off to a hot start.

Roy Halladay, Philadelphia Phillies

April record: 12-4

March was not kind to Halladay, who suffered from a dead arm and a virus which cost him 10 pounds. But Halladay is a “gamer” and his repeatable delivery allows him to throw four different pitches for strikes. Expect the 35-year-old to answer the bell and help Philadelphia win early.

Cole Hamels, Philadelphia Phillies

April record: 10-4

Hamels is now the ace of the Phillies staff and his low-90s fastball lives at the bottom of the strike zone. The lefty is so effective because his changeup baffles hitters even today and it is a true swing-and-a-miss pitch, which helps him pile up victories.

Kyle Lohse, Milwaukee Brewers

April record: 11-3

Lohse recently signed a three-year deal with Milwaukee. His last two years in St. Louis saw him become successful by getting ahead of hitters, avoiding walks and using an improved slider to fan more batters. The Brewers hope his previous April successes and last year’s results continue.

Ricky Nolasco, Miami Marlins

April record: 10-4

Nolasco is the new ace in Miami and thrives by working both sides of the plate with his fastball. The righty compliments his heater with a split-change and is a bulldog on the bump.

David Price, Tampa Bay Rays

April record: 10-5

Price is one of the elite left-handed pitchers in the game. His mid-90s fastball forces opposing teams to gear up for the heat and Price fools hitters frequently with a diving cutter or a power slider. If a hitter wants to sit on certain pitch, forget it, he’ll throw the change which moves away from right-handed hitters.

CC Sabathia, New York Yankees

April record: 10-5

Few pitchers in the big leagues are as reliable and consistent as Sabathia. His durability is virtually unmatched in today’s game and he still can reach the mid-90s with complete command, moving the ball in and out or up and down. His slurvy breaking ball will often be his out pitch. The Yankees will certainly need their ace early with all the injuries.

James Shields, Kansas City Royals

April Record: 14-2

We are about to find out just how good Shields actually is after he made the move from Tampa Bay to Kansas City. The righty expertly locates his low-90s fastball and his change is so effective because the release point on this pitch is the same as his fastball, making it very deceiving. Can Shields lift his new teammates to his previous levels or does he sink to theirs?

Jered Weaver, Los Angeles Angels

April record: 12-3

While there are concerns about Weaver’s drop in velocity in 2012, he still won 20 games with his ability to add or subtract speed off the fastball. Batters are continually off-balance with his assortment of high-spinning sliders, slow curves and changeups. He always wants the ball in big games.

Barry Zito, San Francisco Giants

April record: 8-4

Zito was clutch in the postseason and was a key contributor to San Francisco’s championship run last season. The aging lefty no longer throws very hard, but last season had better overall control, making his looping curveball and changeup more effective. Zito should still contribute this year as a fifth starter.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Mark Buehrle, Toronto Blue Jays

April record: 4-11

Part of a blockbuster trade with Miami, Buehrle returns to the American League looking to resurrect his career at 34 in Toronto. The lefty has thrown 200 or more innings in each season since 2001, but his command is becoming less stable with age.

Ryan Dempster, Boston Red Sox

April record: 4-10

After spending his entire career in the National League, Dempster went to the American League and did little to help Texas last season, casting doubts about his potential success in Boston. Last year the 35-year-old infrequently topped 90 mph, as opponents started to sit on the slider and drove it. Though Dempster has experience in playing in a small park, can he be more than a .500 pitcher for the Red Sox?

Edwin Jackson, Chicago Cubs

April record: 5-10

Though he doesn’t turn 30 until September, this will be Edwin Jackson’s eighth different Major League team. His greatest attribute is durability, but he’s never found a home because of too many uneven starts over a season. Jackson did post a career strikeout rate in 2012, but playing for the Cubs will not improve his win percentage.

Mat Latos, Cincinnati Reds

April record: 4-9

A notoriously slow starter, the Cincinnati right-hander’s career record in April is 2-8 with a 5.79 ERA. Once April was out of the way in 2012, Latos went 13-2 with a 3.09 ERA in his final 28 starts. Will he be able to clear the next hurdle in his career and pitch well early?

Clayton Richard, San Diego Padres

April record: 5-11

The Padres left-hander will put together a group of quality starts, giving hope he’s finally figured how to succeed only to inevitably fail again, frustrating himself and his team. What typically is Richard’s downfall is his inability to pitch inside to right handed batters, who swing too comfortably in the box.

Ervin Santana, Kansas City Royals

April record: 5-11

Santana is confident he can be the hurler he was before last season. To do so, he will be wearing a Kansas City uniform and no longer pitching in key contests like he did with Anaheim. After a disastrous first four months, Santana was pretty solid last August and most of September after fixing some mechanical issues. Which pitcher will the Royals see in 2013?

Joe Saunders, Seattle Mariners

April record: 4-10

The 31-year-old Virginia native is trying to keep up with Edwin Jackson, pitching for his fourth different team in four years with the move to Seattle. Saunders will start the year in the Mariners starting rotation and has good control, but his stuff would be best described as below average.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 09:34 AM

NHL
Dunkel

Washington at Philadelphia
The Flyers look to build on their 4-1 record in their last 5 games against the Capitals. Philadelphia is the pick (-135) according to Dunkel, which has the Flyers favored by 1/2 a goal. Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-135). Here are all of today's picks.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Game 51-52: Chicago at Detroit (12:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 10.954; Detroit 13.393
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 2 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago (-115); 5
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-105); Over

Game 53-54: Anaheim at Columbus (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Anaheim 11.359; Columbus 10.808
Dunkel Line & Total: Anaheim by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Anaheim (-135); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Anaheim (-135); Under

Game 55-56: Los Angeles at Dallas (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 11.401; Dallas 10.660
Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 1/2; 4
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles (-115); 5
Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-115); Under

Game 57-58: Boston at Buffalo (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 10.922; Buffalo 12.261
Dunkel Line & Total: Buffalo by 1 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-150); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (+130); Over

Game 59-60: Washington at Philadelphia (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 11.197; Philadelphia 11.429
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia (-135); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-135); Under

NHL
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 31

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

CHICAGO (25-5-0-3, 53 pts.) at DETROIT (17-12-0-5, 39 pts.) - 3/31/2013, 12:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 25-8 ATS (+13.1 Units) in all games this season.
CHICAGO is 25-8 ATS (+13.1 Units) second half of the season this season.
CHICAGO is 9-0 ATS (+9.0 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
DETROIT is 16-25 ATS (-18.4 Units) in March games over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 18-24 ATS (-16.4 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 10-17 ATS (-14.7 Units) after playing 3 consecutive road games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 10-4 (+5.0 Units) against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 10-4-0 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
12 of 14 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+10.3 Units)

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ANAHEIM (23-7-0-4, 50 pts.) at COLUMBUS (14-14-0-7, 35 pts.) - 3/31/2013, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
COLUMBUS is 7-2 ATS (+9.3 Units) in home games in March games this season.
ANAHEIM is 23-11 ATS (+10.2 Units) in all games this season.
ANAHEIM is 23-11 ATS (+10.2 Units) second half of the season this season.
ANAHEIM is 42-31 ATS (+78.9 Units) in road games on Sunday games since 1996.
COLUMBUS is 6-15 ATS (+22.6 Units) in home games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 3 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 27-67 ATS (+115.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
COLUMBUS is 7-26 ATS (+47.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ANAHEIM is 5-4-0 straight up against COLUMBUS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+0.4 Units)

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LOS ANGELES (19-12-0-3, 41 pts.) at DALLAS (16-14-0-3, 35 pts.) - 3/31/2013, 6:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 7-7 (+2.0 Units) against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 7-7-0 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
6 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=-1.0 Units, Under=-0.5 Units)

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BOSTON (21-8-0-4, 46 pts.) at BUFFALO (13-16-0-6, 32 pts.) - 3/31/2013, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 243-175 ATS (+64.8 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.
BOSTON is 149-130 ATS (+284.0 Units) in a road game where where the total is 5.5 since 1996.
BOSTON is 27-9 ATS (+12.5 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BUFFALO is 8-19 ATS (-12.8 Units) when playing on back-to-back days over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BUFFALO is 8-7 (+3.3 Units) against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
BUFFALO is 8-7-0 straight up against BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
10 of 13 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+7.6 Units)

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WASHINGTON (16-17-0-1, 33 pts.) at PHILADELPHIA (14-17-0-3, 31 pts.) - 3/31/2013, 6:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 16-8 ATS (+25.6 Units) in road games in March games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 13-20 ATS (-15.9 Units) in home games after a win by 2 goals or more over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 176-141 ATS (-121.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 6-4 (+1.5 Units) against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 6-4-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+1.6 Units)

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NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 31

Hot teams
-- Detroit won five of its last seven games.
-- Dallas Stars won three of their last four games.
-- Capitals won four of their last five games.

Cold teams
-- Blackhawks lost three of their last four games.
-- Ducks lost four of their last five games. Columbus lost three of last four.
-- Kings lost three of their last five games.
-- Bruins lost five of their last seven games. Buffalo lost its last three games.
-- Flyers lost four of their last five games.

Totals
-- Four of last five Chicago road games went over the total.
-- Anaheim's last five road games stayed under the total. Last five Columbus games went over the total.
-- Six of last seven Dallas games went over the total.
-- Under is 8-1-1 in last ten Boston games.
-- Under is 6-3-1 in last ten Washington games.

Series records
-- Blackhawks won their last five games with Detroit.
-- Ducks won five of last seven games with Columbus.
-- Dallas Stars won five of last six games with the Kings.
-- Bruins lost their last three visits to Buffalo.
-- Flyers won four of last five games with Washington.

Back-to-backs
-- Kings are 4-1 if they played the night before.
-- Boston is 1-3 if it played the night before; Sabres are 1-5.
-- Flyers are 3-4 if they played night before, 0-2 if they won. Washington is 3-3 if it played the night before.

NHL

Sunday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
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12:30 PM
CHICAGO vs. DETROIT
Chicago is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games
Detroit is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 7 games when playing at home against Chicago

6:00 PM
ANAHEIM vs. COLUMBUS
Anaheim is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Anaheim is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games when playing on the road against Columbus
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Columbus's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Columbus's last 7 games at home

6:00 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. DALLAS
Los Angeles is 14-7 SU in its last 21 games
Los Angeles is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Dallas
Dallas is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Los Angeles
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games

6:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. PHILADELPHIA
Washington is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington

7:30 PM
BOSTON vs. BUFFALO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Boston's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Boston's last 10 games
Buffalo is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games when playing at home against Boston

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NHL

Sunday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Around the rink: Sunday's NHL betting notes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chicago Blackhawks at Detroit Red Wings (+102, 5)

Probable starting goaltenders: Corey Crawford (CHI), Jimmy Howard (DET)

Chicago extended its winning streak against Detroit to five games on the strength of a 2-1 overtime victory on Jan. 27 and a shootout triumph by the same score on March 3. The Blackhawks placed Marian Hossa on injured reserve after the former Red Wing missed his last four contests with an upper-body injury. Hossa won't be alone as Patrick Sharp - who has been sidelined for nine contests with an upper-body injury – has been ruled out for Sunday's game. The under is 5-0 in the Red Wings’ last five vs. Central foes.

Anaheim Ducks at Columbus Blue Jackets (+123, 5.5)

Probable starting goaltenders: Jonas Hiller (ANA), Sergei Bobrovsky (CBJ)

Columbus has points in its last 11 games at Nationwide Arena (8-0-3) and sits one point behind St. Louis for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Ducks still hold a comfortable lead atop the Pacific Division, but have one victory in their last five games after snapping a skid with a 2-1 win at Chicago on Friday. Anaheim has scored seven goals over its last five games and is 1-for-21 on the power play in its last 10. The under is 5-1-1 in the last seven meetings in Columbus.

Los Angeles Kings at Dallas Stars (+101, 5)

Probable starting goaltenders: Jonathan Bernier (LAK), Kari Lehtonen (DAL)

Los Angeles has won eight of its last 10 visits to Dallas but just one of its last six overall games against the Stars. The road team has won five in a row and is 6-0-1 in the last seven meetings between the division rivals. The over is 6-0 in the Kings’ last six road games.

Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers (-129, 5.5)

Probable starting goaltenders: Michal Neuvirth (WSH), Ilya Bryzgalov (PHI)

The Capitals have been making themselves at home on the road, winning their last four contests by a 15-6 margin. Philadelphia snapped a four-game winless streak (0-2-2) with a 3-1 triumph over Boston on Saturday afternoon. The Flyers have converted on their last five power-play opportunities and the under is 4-0 in the last four meetings.

Boston Bruins at Buffalo Sabres (+139, 5.5)

Probable starting goaltenders: Anton Khudobin (BOS), Ryan Miller (BUF)

The Bruins have lost two straight and five of six away from home, and are just 2-4-1 overall in their last seven contests. Buffalo looks to end its three-game winless streak and notch its third win in four meetings with Boston. Each of Buffalo's last six contests and 14 of its last 16 were one-goal decisions. The Sabres are 0-7 in their last seven Sunday games.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 09:38 AM

NBA
Long Sheet

Sunday, March 31

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

TORONTO (27 - 45) at WASHINGTON (26 - 46) - 3/31/2013, 6:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 7-3 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 5-5 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

CLEVELAND (22 - 49) at NEW ORLEANS (25 - 48) - 3/31/2013, 6:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

DETROIT (24 - 49) at CHICAGO (39 - 32) - 3/31/2013, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 6-4 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 10-0 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MIAMI (57 - 15) at SAN ANTONIO (55 - 17) - 3/31/2013, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN ANTONIO is 87-60 ATS (+21.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 72-49 ATS (+18.1 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 46-26 ATS (+17.4 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 43-23 ATS (+17.7 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 150-114 ATS (+24.6 Units) in March games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) against Southeast division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in non-conference games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 46-31 ATS (+11.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 136-101 ATS (+24.9 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.
MIAMI is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) after a non-conference game this season.

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

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

BOSTON (38 - 34) at NEW YORK (45 - 26) - 3/31/2013, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 27-44 ATS (-21.4 Units) after a win by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
NEW YORK is 44-29 ATS (+12.1 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
NEW YORK is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home games in March games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 8-7 against the spread versus BOSTON over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 11-4 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
8 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Sunday, March 31

Hot Teams
-- Bulls won three of last four games, covered six of last seven.
-- Miami won 28 of its last 29 games (2-0 as U). Spurs won six of their last seven games (1-5 last six HF).
-- Knicks won last seven games, covered seven of last eight.

Cold Teams
-- Raptors lost five of last six games (1-5 last six AU). Wizards are 1-3 in their last four games (4-7 last 11 F).
-- Cavaliers lost their last seven games (5-2 last seven A). Hornets lost nine of their last 13 games (5-3 last eight HF).
-- Pistons lost 12 of their last 13 games (3-1 last four AU).
-- Celtics lost five of their last six road games (4-6 last ten AU).

Totals
-- Five of last six Toronto games went over the total.
-- Seven of last nine Cleveland games stayed under total.
-- Last four Detroit games stayed under the total.
-- Last three Miami games went over the total.
-- Five of last six New York games went over the total.

Back-to-backs
-- Chicago covered last five times it played night before.

NBA

Sunday, March 31

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

6:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. NEW ORLEANS
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games
New Orleans is 6-14 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 7 games when playing at home against Cleveland

6:00 PM
TORONTO vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Washington
Toronto is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto

7:00 PM
MIAMI vs. SAN ANTONIO
Miami is 14-1 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Miami's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of San Antonio's last 11 games when playing at home against Miami
San Antonio is 9-3-1 ATS in its last 13 games when playing at home against Miami

7:00 PM
DETROIT vs. CHICAGO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Detroit is 1-9-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Chicago is 17-4-1 ATS in its last 22 games when playing Detroit
Chicago is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit

7:30 PM
BOSTON vs. NEW YORK
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston's last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
Boston is 13-4 SU in its last 17 games when playing on the road against New York
New York is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New York's last 5 games at home

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NBA

Sunday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat at Spurs: What bettors need to know
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Miami Heat at San Antonio Spurs (-1.5, 198.5)

The top two teams in the NBA meet up Sunday when the Miami Heat visit the San Antonio Spurs. The contest is huge in terms of the battle for home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Miami currently has a two-game edge over San Antonio and would hold a commanding lead if it completes a sweep of the season series. The Heat have won 28 of their past 29 games while San Antonio has won six of its last seven.

The contest could be a prelude to June’s NBA Finals as both squads are the class of their respective conferences. San Antonio holds a 2 1/2-game edge over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference and has a 32-4 home mark. Miami recently had a 27-game winning streak halted and has won 14 of its last 15 road games. The Heat bounced back from a loss to the Chicago Bulls by downing the New Orleans Hornets on Friday. The Spurs downed the Clippers on Friday behind Tim Duncan’s decisive three-point play with 2.2 seconds remaining. Miami won the first meeting 105-100 on Nov. 29 when Spurs coach Gregg Popovich sent Duncan, and guards Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Danny Green back to San Antonio for rest.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Sun Sports (Miami), Fox Sports Southwest (San Antonio), NBATV

ABOUT THE HEAT (57-15): Forward LeBron James put his outside shooting on display in the victory over New Orleans, knocking down seven 3-pointers – one shy of his career high. James made six consecutive 3-pointers in the first half and finished 7-of-10 from behind the arc while scoring 36 points. “I hadn’t done that probably since high school or the early years with Cleveland,” James said afterward. “I felt good. Just tried to keep the Heat wave going.” Miami shot a season-high 60.9 percent in the contest and was 14-of-27 from 3-point range.

ABOUT THE SPURS (55-17): Duncan scored a season-best 34 points against the Clippers and continues to play like someone much younger. The 36-year-old Duncan also grabbed 11 rebounds against the Clippers for his 31st double-double of the season and is averaging 17.6 points and 10 rebounds. “He’s done the work to put himself in the position to have games like this and to have the season that’s he had,” Popovich said afterward. “You couldn’t be more proud of the guy on what he did out there.” Point guard Tony Parker had 24 points against the Clippers and is averaging 21.8 points in four games since returning from an ankle injury.

TRENDS:

* Spurs are 1-5 ATS in their last six home games.
* Over is 8-1 in Heat’s last nine vs. Western Conference foes.
* Heat are 4-0 ATS in their last four Sunday games.
* Spurs are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Heat is 2-22 when playing in San Antonio.

2. Ginobili injured his hamstring against the Clippers and will miss the Miami contest.

3. Miami PG Mario Chalmers (ankle) sat out the New Orleans game and is questionable to play against the Spurs.

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

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 11:32 AM

NBA
Dunkel

Miami at San Antonio
The Heat look to take advantage of a San Antonio team that is 0-6 ATS in its last 6 games when playing with 1 day of rest. Miami is the pick (+1 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the game Even. Dunkel Pick: Miami (+1 1/2). Here are all of today's picks.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Game 701-702: Toronto at Washington (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 112.276; Washington 115.072
Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 3; 197
Vegas Line & Total: Washington by 4; 192
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (+4); Over

Game 703-704: Cleveland at New Orleans (6:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 111.836; New Orleans 121.618
Dunkel Line & Total: New Orleans by 10; 188
Vegas Line & Total: New Orleans by 6; 193
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (-6); Under

Game 705-706: Detroit at Chicago (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 110.184; Chicago 117.554
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 7 1/2; 190
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 9; 186 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+9); Over

Game 707-708: Miami at San Antonio (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 126.119; San Antonio 125.870
Dunkel Line & Total: Even; 194
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 1 1/2; 198
Dunkel Pick: Miami (+1 1/2); Under

Game 709-710: Boston at New York (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 115.482; New York 125.288
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 10; 191
Vegas Line & Total: New York by 6 1/2; 196 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New York (-6 1/2); Under

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 11:35 AM

Guys,

I've got to leave for an hour or so and short sheets haven't started yet. That should only be a problem for the 12:30edt NHL game. I'll have the shorts posted before anything else goes. Good luck today, guys!

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:36 PM

NHL
Short Sheet

Sunday, March 31

Chicago at Detroit, 12:35 ET NBC
Chicago: 9-0 ATS vs. division opponents
Detroit: 10-17 ATS after playing 3 consecutive road games

Anaheim at Columbus, 6:05 ET
Anaheim: 9-23 ATS after failing to cover 3 of their last 4 against the spread
Columbus: 7-2 ATS in home games in March

Los Angeles at Dallas, 6:05 ET
Los Angeles: 16-6 ATS off a close road loss by 1 goal
Dallas: 5-0 OVER after playing a game where 8 or more total goals were scored

(TC) Boston at Buffalo, 7:35 ET NBCSN
Boston: 12-2 ATS after having lost 3 of their last 4 games
Buffalo: 2-10 ATS after allowing 2 goals or more in the third period last game

(TC) Washington at Philadelphia, 6:05 ET
Washington: 16-8 ATS in road games in March
Philadelphia: 6-11 ATS in home games off a home win
by 2 goals or more

(TC) = Time Change

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:37 PM

NBA
Short Sheet

Sunday, March 31

Toronto at Washington, 6:05 ET
Toronto: 34-18 ATS after failing to cover 2 of their last 3 against the spread
Washington: 16-32 ATS against Atlantic division opponents

Cleveland at New Orleans, 6:05 ET
Cleveland: 50-30 ATS after 2 straight games where opponent was called for 18 or less fouls
New Orleans: 6-17 ATS in home games in non-conference games

Detroit at Chicago, 7:05 ET
Detroit: 16-30 ATS revenging a loss vs opponent
Chicago: 12-4 ATS after 4 straight games forcing opponent to commit 14 or less turnovers

Miami at San Antonio, 7:05 ET NBATV
Miami: 8-1 OVER against Southwest division opponents
San Antonio: 11-2 ATS against Southeast division opponents

Boston at New York, 7:35 ET
Boston: 7-17 ATS in road games revenging a same season loss vs opponent
New York: 12-3 ATS in home games in March games

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:40 PM

NBA

Sunday, March 31

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bank shots: NBA betting news and notes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For the week of March 24-30

Hottest ATS

Utah Jazz (4-1 SU, 5-0 ATS)

Utah has ripped off eight consecutive covers (4-4 SU) for bettors heading into Monday’s home game with Portland. The Jazz are in a dogfight with the Lakers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference with only eight games to play.

Coldest ATS

Portland Trail Blazers (0-4 SU, 0-4 ATS)

Portland’s postseason aspirations took a huge hit with four consecutive losses this past week. The Blazers were blown out by the Thunder, Nets, Jazz and Warriors and now face a must-win situation in Utah on Monday night.

Best over play

Chicago Bulls (2-1 SU, 3-0 over/under)

Chicago has been a good under play (32-38-1 O/U) all season long, but the Bulls have topped the total in three straight. The Bulls are averaging 101 points over the run – eight points higher than their season average (93 ppg). Chicago hosts the lowly Pistons Sunday before hitting the road for games in Washington and Brooklyn.

Best under play

Denver Nuggets (1-2 SU, 0-3 over/under)

Bettors have been cashing in on Denver’s ability to soar over totals all season long, but have taken a huge hit to the wallet over its past five games. The Nuggets faced an average total of 206.5 over a five-game under run, including a huge 221.5 total against the Kings on Mar. 23. Denver has a few days off before it visits Utah on Wednesday.

Scouting the schedule:

-The Philadelphia 76ers will play seven of their last nine games away from the Wells Fargo Center. The Sixers have a 10-21-3 O/U record away from home.

-The Oklahoma City Thunder enter a brutal portion of their schedule next week. The Thunder will play five consecutive quality opponents, who have a combined 227-138 SU record this season. Oklahoma City kicks off the stretch of toughies Thursday when it hosts San Antonio.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:42 PM

NHL

Sunday, March 31

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Pucking the trends: This week's best NHL bets
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For the week of March 24-30.

Hot team

Pittsburgh Penguins (4-0 SU)

The Penguins rolled to their 15th straight victory with a 2-0 win over the Islanders Saturday, but captain Sidney Crosby took a puck to the face and needed emergency oral surgery. Coach Dan Bylsma isn’t sure if Crosby will be out for a significant period of time or if he’ll be available Tuesday vs. Buffalo.

Cold team

St. Louis Blues (0-3 SU)

The Blues have dropped three straight games and four of their last five. St. Louis is clinging to the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference heading into action Sunday. The Blues haven’t been able to top three goals in a single game since March 12, a span of seven contests. St. Louis plays six of its next seven away from home.

Best over play

Minnesota Wild (3-1 SU, 4-0 over/under)

The Wild have skated to eight victories in their last nine games and are starting to find the back of the net after a slow start offensively. Minnesota has averaged over four goals per game during the streak to increase its season average to 2.7 markers per contest. The Wild host the Blues Monday before hitting the road for three games.

Best under play

Vancouver Canucks (3-1 SU, 0-3-1 over/under)

The Canucks have gone low in seven of their last eight games (7-0-1 O/U), posting a 6-2 SU record during the run. Vancouver's under bettors got a scare Saturday when Edmonton jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead in the first period, but the Canucks were able to stop the bleeding for the remainder of the 4-0 loss and pay them off.

Surveying the schedule:

-The Ottawa Senators begin a seven-game road trip Tuesday in Boston. The Senators have an impressive 13-3-3 record at Scotiabank Place, but only a 6-7-3
record away from home.

-After a date in Chicago Monday, the Nashville Predators return home to play seven of their next eight games at home. Nashville is 9-3-4 at Bridgestone Arena and 5-11-3 on the road.

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**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:44 PM

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** · 03-31-2013, 01:45 PM

MLB betting: Top 5 beefed-up lineups

Last week we took a look at five teams that improved their pitching staffs and with Opening Day on the horizon it’s time to give the teams that beefed up on offense some love.

Here are five teams that bolstered their offensive prowess in the offseason:

Atlanta Braves (14/1 to win World Series)

2012 over/under record: 67-88-7

Key additions: Justin Upton, B.J. Upton

The Braves have been a classic under play for decades because of their stellar pitching, but this year Atlanta could make some noise with its bats. The Braves added a pair of Uptons to their outfield to bolster an offense that averaged only 4.32 runs per game last campaign. Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward are no longer the new kids on the block and could be poised for breakout offensive seasons.

Cleveland Indians (70/1 to win World Series)

2012 over/under record: 78-77-1

Key additions: Nick Swisher, Michael Bourn, Drew Stubbs

Speed will be the name of the game in Cleveland this year. Michael Bourn and Drew Stubbs combined to steal 72 bags last season and Nick Swisher should provide some pop in the middle of the lineup for a team that blasted only 136 home runs (25th) a year ago.

Toronto Blue Jays (12/1 to win World Series)

2012 over/under record: 77-77-8

Key additions: Jose Reyes, Melky Cabrera

The Jays now have legitimate leadoff hitter after acquiring Jose Reyes and if the gamble on Melky Cabrera pays off, Toronto could be lighting up scoreboards this season.

Philadelphia Phillies (25/1 to win World Series)

2012 over/under record: 83-73-6

Key additions: Ben Revere, Michael Young

Injuries have hampered the Phillies’ ability to score runs in recent years, but when healthy, they can pile on runs in a hurry. Speedster Ben Revere was picked up to replace the departed Shane Victorino and Michael Young’s experienced bat in the middle of the lineup should protect up-and-comer Domonic Brown.

Los Angeles Angels (7/1 to win World Series)

2012 over/under record: 75-78-9

Key addition: Josh Hamilton

There are only a handful of players in the bigs that can dramatically change the offensive dynamic of a team and one of those players is Josh Hamilton. The 2010 AL batting champion will get to flex his muscles in the middle of the order alongside Albert Pujols, creating a nightmarish one-two punch for opposing hurlers to deal with.

**Udog** · 03-31-2013, 01:45 PM

MLB betting: Top 5 improved pitching staffs

Pitching is everything in baseball and that's why MLB general managers compete for premium arms every offseason via trade or free agency.

Here's a look at five teams that bolstered their respective pitching staffs ahead of the 2013 season:

Toronto Blue Jays (12/1 to win World Series)

2012 season O/U: 77-77-8

Key additions: R.A. Dickey, Josh Johnson, Mark Buehrle,

Nobody made a bigger splash in the offseason than the Toronto Blue Jays. General manager Alex Anthopoulos wheeled and dealed for three top-notch starting pitchers, including reigning NL Cy Young Award winner R.A. Dickey. Toronto now has the best rotation in the bigs on paper. But can they get it done on the field and take advantage of a weak AL East?

Los Angeles Dodgers (8/1 to win World Series)

2012 season O/U: 71-82-9

Key additions: Zack Greinke, Hyun-Jin Ryu, Chris Capuano

The Dodgers went deep into their pockets and signed Zack Greinke and South Korea’s Hyun-Jin Ryu to six-year deals. Ryu was a seven-time All-Star and a five-time strikeout leader in Korea and joins a rotation that already boasts Clayton Kershaw, Chad Billingsley and Josh Beckett. Greinke is the 2009 Cy Young Award winner and has big shoes to fill after signing the largest deal ($147 million) for a right-handed pitcher in history back in December. Chris Capuano has made the move to L.A. from New York (Mets) and is a steady lefty that can eat innings.

Kansas City Royals (50/1 to win World Series)

2012 season O/U: 73-83-6

Key additions: James Shields, Wade Davis, Ervin Santana

The Royals added some much-needed pitching depth by acquiring James Shield and Wade Davis from the Rays. Kansas City still lacks a bonafide ace on its staff but it now has three proven starters after also adding Ervin Santana to the staff. The Royals parted ways with closer Joakim Soria in the offseason and will hand the ball over to Greg Holland in the crunch this year. Holland completed the 2012 season with 16 saves in 20 opportunities, a 2.96 ERA, a 1.37 WHIP, a 7-4 record and 91 strikeouts in 67 frames.

Los Angeles Angels (7/1 to win World Series)

2012 season O/U: 75-78-9 O/U

Key additions: Tommy Hanson, Jason Vargas, Ryan Madson

The signing of Josh Hamilton has overshadowed the addition of three strong arms to the Angels’ pitching staff. The oft-injured Tommy Hanson was acquired from the Braves in November and should fit nicely into the middle of the rotation. L.A. also acquired lefty Jason Vargas from the Mariners just before Christmas. Vargas is one of the most underrated southpaws in the league. He quietly racked up 14 wins for Seattle in 2012. Ryan Madson’s surgically-repaired elbow is a cause for concern, but if he can bounce back and return to his previous form, the Angels will have a solid setup man behind Ernesto Frieri.

Boston Red Sox (30/1 to win World Series)

2012 season O/U: 78-77-7

Key additions: Ryan Dempster, Joel Hanrahan

Boston’s pitching was god-awful in 2012 and that prompted some offseason additions that should help improve the staff this year. Veteran Ryan Dempster had one of the lowest ERAs in the NL up until the All-Star break last season and should help stabilize the rotation. Former Pirates closer Joel Hanrahan will assume the ninth-inning duties for the BoSox and push Andrew Bailey, who had an injury-plagued 2012 campaign, to the role of setup man.

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Sunday's Trends and Indexes - 3/31 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

Sunday's Trends and Indexes - 3/31 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

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