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**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:31 AM

Armadillo: Thursday's six-pack

-- Johnny Manziel is suspended for the first half of Texas A&M's game vs Rice Saturday. Whether that is the end of the drama, who knows?

-- Felix Hernandez gave up nine runs in three IP vs Texas; in his last five starts, he's allowed 22 runs in 27 IP.

-- Marlon Byrd hit a 3-run homer in his first game for the Pirates; he'll hit between McCutchen/Alvarez, pretty good spot in the Bucs' order.

-- Padres designated Edinson Volquez Sunday; looks like he will get picked up by the Dodgers to replace Chris Capuano in the rotation.

-- Yaisel Puig got pulled from Wednesday's game in the 4th inning, but they didn't say why, but he acts like he doesn't care a lot of the time. Stuff like this is why some scouts were wary of him despite his vast talent.

-- Is Casper Wells the first position player to pitch for two different teams in the same season? He's played for four different teams this year.

*****

Armadillo: Thursday's List of 13: Searching for the meaning of life...........

13) Orioles were an amazing 29-9 in one-run games LY, 25-14 in two-run games, so they were 54-23 in close games, 39-46 in all others.

This year, Baltimore is still strong in two-run games (15-5) but they’ve slipped to 14-24 in one-run games, so despite being much better in games decided by 3+ runs (41-32) this year, their record isn’t as good as LY, though you could make argument they’re actually a more talented team now.

12) Of the 22 kids in Georgia’s two-deep defensive depth chart, 8 are true freshmen, two others will also be playing their first college game Saturday. Dawgs have a very, very young defense.

11) August RBI leaders: Miguel Cabrera 31 (no surprise), Martin Prado 30 (big surprise).

10) Arizona-Boston-Philly are tied for MLB lead with 11 walk-off wins. D’Backs are 15-5 in extra inning games, 27-15 in one-run games.

9) Green Bay cut backup QB Graham Harrell this week, and Jets scooped him up, giving them five QBs on the roster; like Geno Smith, Harrell also played a while under Dana Holgorsen (at Texas Tech), so you wonder if he was brought in to help Smith some.

8) Over his last 106 IP, Atlanta closer Craig Kimbrel has allowed only 72 baserunners while striking out 177 batters.

7) Reggie Theus is now hoop coach at Cal-Northridge; one of his assistants used to be at Seton Hall which helps explain how Matadors just landed a transfer from South Orange, big guy Kevin Johnson, who averaged 2.9 ppg in the Big East LY. Kid like that could help in the Big West.

6) If you have DirecTV, CBS Sports Network is now Channel 221 (used to be 613) and Fox Sports 1 is 219. Good move to put all the like channels near each other.

5) Hard to believe, but the Tigers are 13-15 in Justin Verlander’s starts this season; 7-7 on road, 6-8 at home.

4) If you’re on Twitter and you want to laugh, follow pro wrestler Al Snow Guy comes up with some funny stuff almost every day.

3) Has to be exciting for a Pirate fan to see them adding players on August 27. They’re trying dammit; if Marlon Byrd plays like he did with the Mets, he’ll help them a lot.

2) It just looks odd to see that Bobby Hurley is the basketball coach at Buffalo; when I was in college, our school played in the same D-III league as the Bulls, and we were better than them. Buffalo’s current AD is the son of the Duke AD, so that move makes more sense once you know that.

1) Baseball rosters can expand Sunday, which gives contenders an edge, since losing teams aren’t going to spend the money to bring extra players up, when their season is already pretty much over. Lot of debate whether to keep this system or tweak it somehow. Baseball seems more open to change these days, and that’s mostly a good thing.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:31 AM

NFL preseason primer: Week 4 betting breakdown

Detroit Lions at Buffalo Bills (+4.5, 39.5)

Off a decisive 40-9 victory over the Patriots last week, the Lions should be content to simply go through the motions and stay healthy in Buffalo Thursday. They've saved their best football for the home faithful in the preseason under Jim Schwarz and that hasn't changed this year, going 2-0 SU and ATS at Ford Field but 0-1 on the road. Expect only cameo appearances from QB Matt Stafford, WR Calvin Johnson and the rest of the first-string offense.

Buffalo can ill-afford another injury under center with both E.J. Manuel and Kevin Kolb already sidelined. Jeff Tuel is expected to start in Week 1 and will see about a quarter of action on Thursday night. From there, we could see newcomers Matt Leinart and Thaddeus Lewis. Leinart was signed, while the team traded for Lewis in a deal with the Lions Sunday. C.J. Spiller left the team last week following a death in his family but did return Sunday. He's unlikely to play more than a series, if at all Thursday.

Indianapolis Colts at Cincinnati Bengals (-3, 38)

Colts DE Robert Mathis says Thursday's game is all about making final decisions on who makes the team and who goes home. "Ah, yes, the infamous Cincinnati fourth preseason game. It's make or break if you are going to make the squad or not. It means a lot. If you want to make the squad, you have to put a good showing together." Head coach Chuck Pagano likes his team's depth heading in. "We've created so much competition. We're deeper across the board at all positions, so we're going to have to let some really good football players go. They'll end up on other teams like everybody else's guys. It's going to be tough."

Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis summed up his game plan for Thursday night pretty well earlier this week. "The mindset is it's a great night for our fans. It's another home game. It's a fun thing and we'll have our guys get out there and let them play a little bit, get them out, and let the other guys finish the game up that are fighting for spots. And there are guys who haven't played much who'll be on the 53-man roster that need experience." In other words, don't count on seeing much more than a brief glimpse of the projected starters on either side of the football.

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets (+3, 40)

The quarterback competition has already been settled in Philadelphia. Michael Vick will be the starter in next week's season opener. So what can we expect from the Eagles Thursday? A lot of Nick Foles and Matt Barkley under center. Foles will get the start and likely see at least a quarter of action. Of the projected regular season starters, Kelly has indicated that only a few players in the secondary are likely to see any action at all against the Jets.

The big news out of Jets camp last weekend was the needless injury to QB Mark Sanchez in the second half of their game against the Giants. He won't play Thursday. Rex Ryan has yet to name a starter at quarterback for Thursday's game and likely won't until Thursday. There's a good chance that rookie Geno Smith will sit out as Ryan feels he's seen enough of his rookie QB in game action this month. That would leave the bulk of the action to Greg McElroy and Matt Simms, although McElroy is banged up as well.

New Orleans Saints at Miami Dolphins (-6, 36)

The Saints will be playing on a short week after defeating the Texans in Houston Sunday. Not surprisingly, Sean Payton is expected to give his regular starters the night off, just as he has in previous Week 4 preseason contests. We have seen better production from the Saints’ backup quarterbacks this year, however, with Luke McCown and rookie Ryan Griffin taking turns carrying the load. Expect to see a lot of Griffin Thursday night.

Ryan Tannehill and the rest of the Dolphins first-string offense could see a series or two of action Thursday, but that's it. After Pat Devlin took over for Tannehill last week, we can expect veteran Matt Moore to shoulder much of the load this week. The Dolphins haven't had a great deal of preseason success under head coach Joe Philbin and are off to a 1-3 start this year.

New York Giants at New England Patriots (Pick, 38.5)

Syracuse University product Ryan Nassib will get an extended look for the Giants against the Patriots, entering in relief of Eli Manning after he sees a series or two of action. Head coach Tom Coughlin has indicated that he would like to see all four of his quarterbacks play Thursday. The Giants have dropped back-to-back games after opening the preseason with a win in Pittsburgh.

Patriots QB Tom Brady says he expects to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Giants. Brady believes he needs additional work with his new receivers in advance of next week's season opener in Buffalo. “I think there’s always something to be gained from the competition. I think you have to go out there and always be prepared, and whatever Belichick wants to do for however long he wants to play us, that’s what we’re going to do. So we’re ready to go.”

Washington Redskins at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+2, 37.5)

With RGIII and Kirk Cousins both sidelined and veteran Rex Grossman not needing any more game reps prior to the regular season, Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan has indicated that Pat White will start and play the entire game Thursday. Most of the Redskins starters are expected to sit out Thursday's contest.

Bucs head coach Greg Schiano has indicated that backup QB Mike Glennon will see the majority of the snaps Thursday night. "The plan is, Mike’s going to play a lot. Is he the starter? Proabably. We want Mike to keep getting repetitions. Dan is a multi-year vet who has had a lot of repitions. They’ll both play.'' The Dan he referred to was veteran QB Dan Orlovsky.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Carolina Panthers (-3.5, 36.5)

The Steelers backup QB competition is over, with Bruce Gradkowski winning the job. He and Landry Jones will split duty in Carolina with Ben Roethlisberger remaining on the sidelines. Pittsburgh has yet to win a game this preseason but Mike Tomlin isn't putting much emphasis on picking up a win Thursday.

Just like last year, the Panthers are likely to sit Cam Newton with Derek Anderson and Jimmy Clausen each playing a half. Former Giants WR Domenik Hixon is expected to make his Panthers debut. LB Jon Beason says he would like to play, but could be held out in preparation for next week's season opener.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Atlanta Falcons (+3, 40)

Jaguars head coach Gus Bradley has indicated that RB Maurice Jones-Drew will be held out of Thursday's game after seeing limited action against the Jets and Eagles. Starting QB Blaine Gabbert is unlikely to see much more than a series or two before giving way to veteran backup Chad Henne.

Falcons head coach Mike Smith doesn't put much stock in wins and losses in the preseason and it's shown in the Falcons play so far this month, going 0-3 SU and 1-2 ATS. With WR Roddy White already hurt, Smith won't take any chances in Thursday night's meaningless preseason finale. Don't count on even catching a glimpse of Matt Ryan or Julio Jones on the field.

Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears (+2, 39)

Bears head coach Marc Trestman is keeping it simple on Thursday night. “I wouldn’t say all, but it’ll be close to all of the starters that sit. There’s always going to be things that happen later in the week because of injuries and things like that that we may have to play some guys but our hope is most if not all will be held out of the game.”

Browns rookie head coach Rob Chudzinksi is taking a different approach. He's leaning toward playing his starters for up to a quarter. "We’re going to approach this next game that those guys are going to play, and then I’ll make that determination later in the week as it goes on.” Cleveland had impressed in its first two preseason tilts before falling flat in Indianapolis last week.

Tennessee Titans at Minnesota Vikings (+4.5, 39)

Titans WR Kenny Britt will not play Thursday night after sitting out back-to-back practices due to knee soreness. No fewer than three Titans linebackers are hurt, including Akeem Ayers and Zach Brown, and none of them will suit up Thursday. As for the offensive starters, they could see a series or two but that's it.

Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier has always treated his team with kid gloves in the preseason, and that won't change this week as they take the field on a short week following Sunday's loss in San Francisco. In other words, don't expect to see much from QB Christian Ponder and the rest of the starting offense.

Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs (-3, 36.5)

Aaron Rodgers barely broke a sweat during the preseason and while Mike McCarthy has yet to rule him out for Thursday night, there's a good chance he'll be left holding his helmet on the sidelines. Graham Harrell will get the bulk of the snaps regardless whether Rodgers sees the field against the Chiefs. The Packers have been banged up throughout the preseason and should take a cautious approach here.

Andy Reid was mum as to his team's playing rotation Thursday night. “I’ve sat the ones, I’ve played the ones for a series, I’ve played them for a quarter, I’ve done it all. The main thing you want to do is to make sure with the guys who are remaining on this team you get a good evaluation on the players.

Houston Texans at Dallas Cowboys (+2.5, 37.5)

With starting QB Matt Schaub and the majority of the offensive starters sitting, the Texans will split the snaps between T.J. Yates and Case Keenum in Dallas. Rookie WR DeAndre Hopkins could return to the field after missing last week's game due to a head injury suffered on August 17th against Miami.

Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett hasn't revealed his gameplan for Thursday night, but chances are he'll sit his regular starters, just as he did against Miami last year. Keep in mind, Dallas still won its 2012 preseason finale by a 30-13 score. After a strong showing against the Bengals last Saturday, there's little reason for the Cowboys to push the envelope here.

Baltimore Ravens at St. Louis Rams (-7, 38.5)

There's a reason why the Rams are the biggest favorite on the board this week. Baltimore will rest the majority of its starters, including QB Joe Flacco and WR Torrey Smith, head coach John Harbaugh revealed earlier this week. The Ravens will open the regular season in Denver exactly one week from Thursday.

Jeff Fisher takes an old school approach when it comes to playing to win in the preseason. “The philosophy has been to build reps throughout camp. That has been the way we’ve done it in the past. We may adjust that ever so slightly this week.” In other words, Rams starters will see some playing time Thursday night. Exactly how much remains to be seen.

Arizona Cardinals at Denver Broncos (Pick, 38)

The Cardinals will play their starters Thursday night, but not for more than a quarter. QB Carson Palmer may not be among those suiting up, however. RB Ryan Williams is expected to get extended work out of the backfield.

After seeing extended action in last week's dress rehearsal against St. Louis, don't expect to see much of Peyton Manning or the rest of the Broncos’ first-team offense. Head coach John Fox has yet to outline his gameplan but based on past history, is likely to treat this game as little more than a walk-through.

San Francisco 49ers at San Diego Chargers (Pick, 38.5)

John Harbaugh has limited QB Colin Kaepernick's workload all preseason and that isn't going to change in Week 4. The 49ers have a wealth of options at quarterback, with four different possible backups seeing time against Minnesota last Sunday night. Count on another mixed bag from San Francisco Thursday.

With a number of key injuries on both sides of the football, the Chargers will take a cautious approach to Thursday's game. Philip Rivers won't play more than a series or two, with veteran backup Charlie Whitehurst likely getting the majority of the snaps. After getting embarrassed in their preseason opener, the Chargers second and third-string defense has held up well over the last two games.

Oakland Raiders at Seattle Seahawks (-6.5, 36.5)

QB Terrelle Pryor will start for the Raiders in Seattle Thursday. Matt Flynn will sit out as he continues to recover from a minor arm injury, possibly watching his starting job slip away for the second straight year. Pryor saw the bulk of the action in last year's preseason finale in Seattle as well.

Unlike last year, Seahawks QB Russell Wilson will only get a cameo appearance against the Raiders. While Seattle always gets fired up in front of its home faithful, it certainly has little to prove this week after winning its first three preseason contests. Pete Carroll has indicated that his young players will not surprisingly get extended work in this game.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:34 AM

NFL Top 4: Offensive lines holding their teams back

For most teams, upgrading the offensive line is a high priority in the offseason. Yet, no matter how much retooling takes place, some clubs simply can't improve their fortunes enough to prevent opposing defenses from exposing them.

Here are four teams that could struggle on the o-line this coming season:

Jacksonville Jaguars (+3 vs. Kansas City; O/U: 41)

The Jaguars are expected to get better play from their offensive line this season - largely because it's hard to envision this unit being much worse. Jacksonville's banged-up, inexperienced o-line surrendered 50 sacks a season ago, and while adding first-rounder Luke Joeckel and seeing steady improvement from left tackle Eugene Monroe, the group still lacks the skill set to compete with the majority of opposing defensive lines. Expect a long season for Maurice Jones-Drew, Blaine Gabbert and the rest of the Jaguars' skill players.

Arizona Cardinals (+ 4.5 at St. Louis; O/U: 41)

The selection of standout left guard Jonathan Cooper in last spring's NFL draft was supposed to bolster a shaky Cardinals offensive line that had all sorts of problems protecting its quarterbacks and opening holes for the running game. But Cooper broke his leg earlier in the preseason, leaving Arizona with a gaping hole in its interior as it looks to improve upon last year's league-worst offense. Cooper will return later in the season, but the Cardinals will likely struggle until then with their linemen going through another year of growing pains.

San Diego Chargers (+3 vs. Houston; O/U: 44)

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers has taken the brunt of the criticism for his team's recent offensive woes, but he's certainly not alone in the blame department. The Chargers had one of the lowest yards-per-carry in the league last season, though that may have been remedied by offseason upgrades at both tackle positions, and the pass protection was abysmal all season long, allowing the fourth-most sacks. Add in the implementation of a new offensive system and the Chargers may be hard-pressed to score many points in the early going.

Oakland Raiders (+9.5 at Indianapolis; O/U: 47)

The Raiders limiting opponents to just 27 sacks in 2012 was about the only bit of good o-line news all season. Oakland ranked 27th in yards-per-catch average as its receiving corps failed to find any openings against opposing defenses. The switch from a zone to a power-blocking scheme should make things easier for starting running back Darren McFadden, but adjusting to a new philosophy will take time, and should lead to some early breakdowns that will make life miserable for whichever quarterback claims the starting role.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:35 AM

Best over/under bets of NFL preseason Week 4

If you’re tackling totals this NFL preseason this week, take a look at which teams lean towards the over or the under during Week 4 of the exhibition schedule.

Records since 1995.

Best NFL preseason Week 4 over bets

Dallas Cowboys (11-5 SU, 13-4 O/U in Week 4)

Points for in 2013 preseason: 18 ppg
Points allowed in 2013 preseason: 17.25 ppg

The Cowboys looked pretty good in their Week 3 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Dallas prevailed 24-18 with Tony Romo going 13-for-18 with 137 passing yards and a pair of touchdown passes. The game finished just under the 43.5-point total and moved Dallas to 2-2 O/U in the preseason. The Cowboys are the No. 1 'over' team since 1995 posting a record of 13-4 O/U in the final game of the preseason schedule, including a Week 4 victory for 'over' bettors one season ago. Dallas closes out its preseason against the Houston Texans Thursday.

Philadelphia Eagles (5-12 SU, 12-5 O/U in Week 4)

Points for in 2013 preseason: 22.33 ppg
Points allowed in 2013 preseason: 21.33 ppg

The Eagles are 5-0 O/U in Week 4 of the past five preseasons and played over the total in Week 3 versus the Jacksonville Jaguars. Philly was victorious by a count of 31-24 and racked up 452 yards of offense in the process. Michael Vick has been named the Eagles starting QB, but backup Nick Foles was a very efficient 10-of-11 for 112 yards in relief against the Jags. The New York Jets host the Eagles in each teams' final preseason tilt.

Best NFL preseason Week 4 under bets

Detroit Lions (10-7 SU, 5-12 O/U in Week 4)

Points for in 2013 preseason: 24 ppg
Points allowed in 2013 preseason: 16.66 ppg

Quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Kellen Moore led the Lions to a big 40-9 Week 3 victory over the New England Patriots and improved to 2-1 O/U through their first three preseason games. The pair combined to go 21-for-37 and 316 yards passing and three TDs as they picked apart a hapless Pats secondary. The Lions are on the road versus the Buffalo Bills in Week 4. Their only 'under' thus far this preseason has also been away from Ford Field.

Kansas City Chiefs (7-10 SU, 6-11 O/U in week 4)

Points for in 2013 preseason: 17.33 ppg
Points allowed in 2013 preseason: 17.33 ppg

The new-look Chiefs played over the total in Week 3, but played in a pair of low-scoring games in their first two times out this preseason. New QB Alex Smith played very well and looks to be settling in nicely with new head coach Andy Reid. The defense has kept the Chiefs in each of their preseason games and has only given up four TDs thus far. The Chiefs are home to face the Green Bay Packers in their final tune-up for the regular season.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:37 AM

Inside the stats: New coaches struggle ATS in opener

With the NFL preseason headed toward the finish line, and the 2013 college football season about to engage, let’s take a quick spin around both worlds.

Coaches who try

One of the key ingredients in successfully handicapping the NFL preseason is identifying coaches who put an emphasis on winning above all else.

Three such coaches entered the 2013 exhibition slate with sterling preseason records, namely Baltimore’s John Harbaugh (13-7 SU and 11-9 ATS), Detroit’s Jim Schwartz (12-4 SU and 11-5 ATS) and Seattle’s Pete Carroll (17-12 SU and 19-9-1 ATS).

Collectively the triumvirate has not let their backers down this preseason, compiling a sterling 7-2 SU/ATS mark.

...And those who don’t

On the other side of the street are coaches that could care less about the preseason scoreboard.

Their purpose is to utilize the exhibition season to evaluate talent and put the team in the best position it can entering the regular campaign.

Three coaches fit this bill entering the 2013 preseason, including Atlanta’s Mike Smith (7-13 SU and 8-10-2 ATS), Miami’s Joe Philbin (0-4 SUATS) and Minnesota’s Leslie Frazier (3-5 SUATS).

Holding true to their colors, this tame trio has combined to go 1-9 SU and 2-7-1 ATS this preseason.

New kids on the block

The 2013 college football season welcomes no less than 31 head coaches debuting with new teams this season.

A disturbing stat is the fact that these newbie’s tend to struggle in the maiden voyages, going 112-145-8 combined in lined openers since 1990.

Those who inherit a bad team (four or fewer wins last season) struggle the worst, going 45-75-6 ATS.

Put these new coach/bad teams up against a quality foe (one who won six or more games last season) and they dip even further, going 6-62 SU and 20-42-3 ATS.

According to our research, a long day could be in the offing for Brett Bielema (Arkansas), Sonny Dykes (California), Mark Stoops (Kentucky), Doug Martin (New Mexico State), Matt Ruhle (Temple) and P. J. Fleck (Western Michigan).

Elevator up, elevator down

With college football totals becoming more popular these days, here’s a snapshot of the best and worst teams last season…

• Best OVER team: Louisiana Tech (11-1 O/U)
• Best UNDER team: Bowling Green (2-10 O/U)
• Most combined PPG offense + defense: Louisiana Tech (90 PPG)
• Least combined PPG offense + defense): Rutgers (35.7 PPG)
• Highest average O/U line: Baylor (74.8)
• Lowest average O/U line: Connecticut (43.6)
• Highest average O/U margin: Louisiana Tech (+20.7)
• Lowest average O/U margin: Bowling Green (-10.4)

Stat of the Week

The Seattle Seahawks are 20-4 SU and 22-2 ATS versus AFC opponents during the preseason since 2004.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:39 AM

NFLX
Dunkel

NY Giants at New England
The Giants look to bounce back from last week's 24-21 OT loss to the Jets as they finish the preseason in New England on Thursday. New York is the pick (+2) according to Dunkel, which has the Giants favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+2). Here are all of this week's picks.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Game 101-102: Philadelphia at NY Jets (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 122.678; NY Jets 116.701
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 6; 37
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 3; 40
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-3); Under

Game 103-104: Indianapolis at Cincinnati (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 110.056; Cincinnati 127.555
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 17 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 3 1/2; 38
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-3 1/2); Over

Game 105-106: Detroit at Buffalo (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 119.425; Buffalo 123.287
Dunkel Line: Buffalo by 4; 36
Vegas Line: Detroit by 4 1/2; 39 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (+4 1/2); Under

Game 107-108: Jacksonville at Atlanta (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Jacksonville 115.644; Atlanta 110.509
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville by 5; 44
Vegas Line: Jacksonville by 2 1/2; 39 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (-2 1/2); Over

Game 109-110: Pittsburgh at Carolina (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 121.420; Carolina 121.650
Dunkel Line: Even; 33
Vegas Line: Carolina by 3 1/2; 36 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (+3 1/2); Under

Game 111-112: Washington at Tampa Bay (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 125.770; Tampa Bay 125.607
Dunkel Line: Even; 43
Vegas Line: Washington by 2 1/2; 37 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+2 1/2); Over

Game 113-114: New Orleans at Miami (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 117.220; Miami 125.322
Dunkel Line: Miami by 8; 39
Vegas Line: Miami by 6; 36
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-6); Over

Game 115-116: NY Giants at New England (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 121.403; New England 120.330
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 1; 36
Vegas Line: New England by 2; 39 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+2); Under

Game 117-118: Tennessee at Minnesota (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 125.515; Minnesota 119.048
Dunkel Line: Tennessee by 6 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 4 1/2; 39
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (-4 1/2); Over

Game 119-120: Baltimore at St. Louis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore 117.616; St. Louis 126.509
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 9; 35
Vegas Line: St. Louis by 7; 38 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-7); Under

Game 121-122: Cleveland at Chicago (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 125.965; Chicago 119.515
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 6 1/2; 43
Vegas Line: Cleveland by 2; 39
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-2); Over

Game 123-124: Green Bay at Kansas City (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Green Bay 113.837; Kansas City 121.285
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 7 1/2; 33
Vegas Line: Kansas City by 3; 36 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-3); Under

Game 125-126: Houston at Dallas (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 123.435; Dallas 124.226
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 1; 35
Vegas Line: Houston by 2 1/2; 37 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+2 1/2); Under

Game 127-128: Arizona at Denver (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 123.452; Denver 121.506
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 2; 42
Vegas Line: Pick; 38
Dunkel Pick: Arizona; Over

Game 129-130: San Francisco at San Diego (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 123.859; San Diego 120.509
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 3 1/2; 35
Vegas Line: Pick; 38 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco; Under

Game 131-132: Oakland at Seattle (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 116.708; Seattle 137.779
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 21; 42
Vegas Line: Seattle by 6 1/2; 36 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-6 1/2); Over

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:41 AM

NFLX
Short Sheet

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Philadelphia at New York Jets, 7:00 ET
Philadelphia: Over is 5-0 in Week 4 games for Eagles since 2008
New York Jets: Over is 5-0 in Week 4 games for Jets since 2008

Indianapolis at Cincinnati, 7:00 ET
Indianapolis: Over is 29-14 with Colts as underdog in preseason last 20 years
Cincinnati: Bengals 5-2 ATS in last seven preseason games at Paul Brown Stadium

Detroit at Buffalo, 7:00 ET
Detroit: Lions 5-0 ATS in final week of preseason since 2008
Buffalo: Bills 0-5 ATS in Week 4 of preseason last five years

Jacksonville at Atlanta, 7:30 ET
Jacksonville: Over is 11-0 in preseasonwhen Jacksonville is off two or more consecutive ATS losses
Atlanta: Falcons 1-4 ATS in Week 4 last five years

Pittsburgh at Carolina, 7:30 ET
Pittsburgh: Winless AFC teams in Week 4 are 1-7 ATS since 2008
Carolina: Over is 10-3 in home preseason games for NFC teams with 2-1 record last five years Washington at Tampa Bay, 7:30 ET
Washington: Redskins 1-4 ATS in Week 4 dating back to 2008
Tampa Bay: NFC home underdogs in Week 4 are 5-0 ATS last five years

New Orleans at Miami, 7:30 ET
New Orleans: Saints 9-2 on the road in preseason last five years
Miami: Under is 19-8 in Dolphins games against NFC South teams since 1993

New York Giants at New England, 7:30 ET NFL
New York Giants: Giants 17-38 ATS after playing non-conference opponents in preseason last 20 years
New England: Teams scoring 9 or less in previous game have a 43-19 record favoring Over last five years

Tennessee at Minnesota, 8:00 ET
Tennessee: Over is 4-1 in Week 4 preseason games for Tians since 2008
Minnesota: Over is 9-1 since 1993 after Vikings allow 30 or more points in previous preseason game

Baltimore at St. Louis, 8:00 ET
Baltimore: Under is 38-20 in Ravens non-conference preseason games
St. Louis: Rams 11-0 ATS in last two weeks of the season dating back to 2008

Cleveland at Chicago, 8:00 ET
Cleveland: Browns 0-6 ATS on road in last two weeks of preseason since 2008
Chicago: Over is 9-1 since 1993 when Bears are off a game they allowed three points or less in first half

Green Bay at Kansas City, 8:00 ET
Green Bay: Under is 12-1 since 1993 when Packers are off two or more straight Unders
Kansas City: Chiefs 1-10 ATS in home preseason games since 2008

Houston at Dallas, 8:00 ET
Houston: Over is 16-6 in preseason road games for Texans
Dallas: Cowboys 4-13 ATS following preseason win of six or less since 1993

Arizona at Denver, 9:00 ET
Arizona: Under is 1-4 in Week 4 preseason games for Cardinals last five years
Denver: Broncos 8-0 ATS in home preseason games after not covering spread in two of last three contests

San Francisco at San Diego, 10:00 ET NFL
San Francisco: NFL teams are 25-9 ATS since 2003 when off a double-digit win in which they allowed 14 of fewer points
San Diego: Over is 19-7 last 20 years when Chargers are off a preseason game in which they allowed 14 points or less

Oakland at Seattle, 10:00 ET
Oakland: Raiders 9-22 ATS versus NFC West teams since 1993
Seattle: Seahawks 10-1 ATS since 2008 in last two weeks of preseason

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:53 AM

WNBA
Dunkel

Connecticut at Seattle
The Storm look to build on their 13-5 ATS record in their last 18 home games. Seattle is the pick (-7) according to Dunkel, which has the Storm favored by 16. Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-7). Here are all of today's picks.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Game 601-602: Connecticut at Seattle (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Connecticut 101.318; Seattle 117.177
Dunkel Line & Total: Seattle by 16; 137
Vegas Line & Total: Seattle by 7; 141 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-7); Under

WNBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, August 29

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CONNECTICUT (7 - 20) at SEATTLE (14 - 14) - 8/29/2013, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CONNECTICUT is 2-12 ATS (-11.2 Units) after allowing 75 points or more this season.
CONNECTICUT is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) after scoring 75 points or more this season.
SEATTLE is 31-18 ATS (+11.2 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 81-56 ATS (+19.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.
CONNECTICUT is 93-62 ATS (+24.8 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent since 1997.

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

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

WNBA

Thursday, August 29

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

10:00 PM
CONNECTICUT vs. SEATTLE
Connecticut is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Connecticut is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games when playing Seattle
Seattle is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Seattle is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against Connecticut

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

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 08:54 AM

MLB
Dunkel

Seattle at Houston
The Mariners look to snap a 6-game losing streak and build on their 5-0 record in their last 5 games as a road favorite of -110 to -150. Seattle is the pick (-145) according to Dunkel, which has the Mariners favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-145). Here are all of today's picks.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Game 901-902: Philadelphia at NY Mets (1:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Martin) 14.960; NY Mets (Torres) 14.017
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 1; 7
Vegas Line: NY Mets (-125); 8
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (+105); Under

Game 903-904: Miami at Washington (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (Koehler) 14.562; Washington (Gonzalez) 15.960
Dunkel Line: Washington by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Washington (-220); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-220); Under

Game 905-906: Milwaukee at Pittsburgh (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Gallardo) 15.890; Pittsburgh (Cole) 15.019
Dunkel Line: Milwaukee by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh (-160); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Milwaukee (+140); Over

Game 907-908: Oakland at Detroit (1:08 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland (Colon) 15.098; Detroit (Scherzer) 16.663
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Detroit (-180); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-180); Under

Game 909-910: LA Angels at Tampa Bay (1:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Vargas) 15.970; Tampa Bay (Odorizzi) 15.187
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 1; 9
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-150); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (+130); Over

Game 911-912: Kansas City at Minnesota (1:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Chen) 16.811; Minnesota (Deduno) 13.794
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 3; 7
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-135); 8
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-135); Under

Game 913-914: Baltimore at Boston (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Tillman) 16.001; Boston (Lester) 15.485
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Boston (-160); 9
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+140); Over

Game 915-916: Seattle at Houston (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle (Ramirez) 15.579; Houston (Lyles) 14.124
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Seattle (-145); 9
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-145); Under

Game 917-918: Cleveland at Atlanta (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Jimenez) 15.424; Atlanta (Medlen) 17.074
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Atlanta (-150); 8
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (-150); Over

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 09:02 AM

MLB
Long Sheet

Thursday, August 29

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PHILADELPHIA (61 - 72) at NY METS (59 - 72) - 1:10 PM
ETHAN MARTIN (R) vs. CAROLS TORRES (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 61-72 (-15.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 38-48 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 61-72 (-15.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 28-34 (-12.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
NY METS are 21-10 (+14.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 27-38 (-15.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
NY METS are 279-294 (-85.9 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
NY METS are 10-19 (-13.1 Units) against the money line in home games in day games this season.
NY METS are 27-38 (-15.7 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
NY METS are 68-83 (-28.9 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 34-48 (-22.1 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 9-6 (+2.0 Units) against NY METS this season
9 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.9 Units)

ETHAN MARTIN vs. NY METS since 1997
No recent starts.

CAROLS TORRES vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.

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MIAMI (49 - 82) at WASHINGTON (67 - 65) - 7:05 PM
TOM KOEHLER (R) vs. GIO GONZALEZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 118-175 (-38.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 117-171 (-35.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 65-107 (-30.5 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 25-10 (+13.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 112-82 (+16.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
GONZALEZ is 40-20 (+16.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 40-20 (+16.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 25-11 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 23-10 (+11.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MIAMI is 335-379 (+41.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 67-65 (-11.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 67-65 (-11.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
WASHINGTON is 45-49 (-16.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 8-3 (+3.8 Units) against MIAMI this season
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.7 Units)

TOM KOEHLER vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
No recent starts.

GIO GONZALEZ vs. MIAMI since 1997
GONZALEZ is 2-2 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 1.93 and a WHIP of 0.786.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-0. (+3.0 units)

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MILWAUKEE (58 - 74) at PITTSBURGH (77 - 55) - 7:05 PM
YOVANI GALLARDO (R) vs. GERRIT COLE (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 141-153 (-22.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 1-11 (-11.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday this season.
MILWAUKEE is 141-153 (-22.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
GALLARDO is 1-9 (-11.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 77-55 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 43-23 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 32-21 (+13.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
PITTSBURGH is 77-55 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PITTSBURGH is 52-31 (+20.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 63-43 (+22.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
PITTSBURGH is 44-32 (+13.1 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
PITTSBURGH is 48-25 (+20.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MILWAUKEE is 49-31 (+19.8 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 35-28 (+13.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 37-41 (-27.6 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 31-52 (-23.8 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 38-44 (-18.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 10-5 (+5.1 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
7 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.7 Units, Under=-0.8 Units)

YOVANI GALLARDO vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
GALLARDO is 10-3 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 2.58 and a WHIP of 1.184.
His team's record is 14-3 (+10.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-11. (-6.2 units)

GERRIT COLE vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
COLE is 1-0 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 4.50 and a WHIP of 1.833.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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OAKLAND (75 - 57) at DETROIT (77 - 56) - 1:05 PM
BARTOLO COLON (R) vs. MAX SCHERZER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 27-6 (+16.0 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -175 to -200 over the last 2 seasons.
SCHERZER is 21-5 (+11.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
SCHERZER is 61-31 (+19.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
OAKLAND is 75-57 (+10.1 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
OAKLAND is 39-37 (+34.6 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +175 to +200 since 1997.
OAKLAND is 80-71 (+22.1 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 275-203 (+65.0 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997.
OAKLAND is 72-53 (+11.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
OAKLAND is 116-81 (+38.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 44-30 (+10.0 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
OAKLAND is 35-23 (+12.8 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 85-68 (+28.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 40-31 (+14.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
COLON is 31-17 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
COLON is 30-17 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DETROIT is 77-56 (-8.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
DETROIT is 117-138 (-45.7 Units) against the money line in home games in August games since 1997.
DETROIT is 73-53 (-9.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 4-2 (+3.6 Units) against DETROIT this season
5 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+4.0 Units)

BARTOLO COLON vs. DETROIT since 1997
COLON is 8-10 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 5.44 and a WHIP of 1.597.
His team's record is 13-12 (-6.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 10-14. (-5.8 units)

MAX SCHERZER vs. OAKLAND since 1997
SCHERZER is 2-1 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 2.67 and a WHIP of 1.154.
His team's record is 3-3 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+1.9 units)

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LA ANGELS (59 - 72) at TAMPA BAY (75 - 56) - 1:10 PM
JASON VARGAS (L) vs. JAKE ODORIZZI (R)
Top Trends for this game.
LA ANGELS are 59-72 (-29.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA ANGELS are 34-38 (-14.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
LA ANGELS are 46-51 (-16.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
LA ANGELS are 27-44 (-26.8 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
LA ANGELS are 26-42 (-19.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
TAMPA BAY is 38-21 (+12.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
TAMPA BAY is 114-62 (+32.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 693-685 (+56.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 255-210 (+74.0 Units) against the money line in road games in day games since 1997.
VARGAS is 27-19 (+13.8 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
LA ANGELS is 1-1 (+0.2 Units) against TAMPA BAY this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.2 Units)

JASON VARGAS vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
VARGAS is 2-3 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.29 and a WHIP of 1.252.
His team's record is 2-4 (-1.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-5. (-4.2 units)

JAKE ODORIZZI vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
No recent starts.

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KANSAS CITY (68 - 64) at MINNESOTA (57 - 74) - 1:10 PM
BRUCE CHEN (L) vs. SAM DEDUNO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 56-68 (+4.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
KANSAS CITY is 37-31 (+8.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
KANSAS CITY is 33-31 (+6.8 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
KANSAS CITY is 26-19 (+8.1 Units) against the money line in day games this season.
KANSAS CITY is 51-42 (+8.8 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
KANSAS CITY is 10-1 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
CHEN is 29-16 (+18.4 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 55-41 (+20.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 59-85 (-24.7 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 47-70 (-23.3 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 7-18 (-12.6 Units) against the money line in home games in August games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 76-93 (-35.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Thursday since 1997.
MINNESOTA is 31-55 (-22.5 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 33-66 (-24.4 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 22-46 (-13.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MINNESOTA is 10-26 (-15.5 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 14-4 (+8.7 Units) against MINNESOTA this season
10 of 18 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.4 Units)

BRUCE CHEN vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
CHEN is 3-5 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 5.07 and a WHIP of 1.425.
His team's record is 4-6 (-1.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-5. (-0.4 units)

SAM DEDUNO vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
DEDUNO is 3-1 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 2.16 and a WHIP of 1.320.
His team's record is 3-1 (+2.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.6 units)

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BALTIMORE (70 - 61) at BOSTON (79 - 55) - 7:05 PM
CHRIS TILLMAN (R) vs. JON LESTER (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 79-55 (+12.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BALTIMORE is 70-61 (+3.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BALTIMORE is 77-57 (+20.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 80-69 (+30.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 32-22 (+18.2 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 22-10 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 70-59 (+20.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 65-53 (+5.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BALTIMORE is 113-94 (+24.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 36-24 (+10.0 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
BALTIMORE is 39-30 (+9.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
TILLMAN is 18-8 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 11-1 (+10.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 9-2 (+8.5 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 10-2 (+10.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 26-12 (+15.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 15-4 (+10.6 Units) against the money line in night games this season. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 17-6 (+14.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BOSTON is 27-27 (-9.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
BOSTON is 76-70 (-18.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 34-41 (-21.3 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 23-31 (-15.5 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 26-38 (-24.1 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 129-134 (-32.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 101-110 (-28.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 95-103 (-25.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 463-344 (-55.7 Units) against the money line in home games after a win since 1997.
BOSTON is 75-93 (-25.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 32-52 (-20.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
LESTER is 46-46 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
LESTER is 18-24 (-13.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LESTER is 17-22 (-16.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
LESTER is 21-28 (-15.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 6-6 (+0.3 Units) against BOSTON this season
8 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+4.5 Units)

CHRIS TILLMAN vs. BOSTON since 1997
TILLMAN is 3-1 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 2.08 and a WHIP of 1.223.
His team's record is 4-4 (-0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-4. (+0.1 units)

JON LESTER vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
LESTER is 15-2 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 2.72 and a WHIP of 1.287.
His team's record is 17-6 (+8.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-9. (-0.7 units)

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SEATTLE (59 - 73) at HOUSTON (44 - 88) - 8:10 PM
ERASMO RAMIREZ (L) vs. JORDAN LYLES (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 136-169 (-46.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday since 1997.
SEATTLE is 56-70 (-11.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 75-141 (-51.6 Units) against the money line in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997.
SEATTLE is 31-15 (+12.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 99-194 (-43.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 21-44 (-15.5 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
HOUSTON is 6-25 (-17.0 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents this season.
HOUSTON is 21-44 (-15.5 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 7-5 (+0.3 Units) against HOUSTON this season
6 of 12 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.6 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)

ERASMO RAMIREZ vs. HOUSTON since 1997
No recent starts.

JORDAN LYLES vs. SEATTLE since 1997
LYLES is 0-1 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 7.36 and a WHIP of 1.364.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (+0.0 units)

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CLEVELAND (71 - 61) at ATLANTA (80 - 52) - 7:10 PM
UBALDO JIMENEZ (R) vs. KRIS MEDLEN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 17-37 (-19.0 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 80-52 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 41-17 (+17.6 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -150 over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 46-18 (+17.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
ATLANTA is 79-51 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ATLANTA is 35-13 (+13.9 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
ATLANTA is 108-66 (+26.2 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 26-8 (+15.2 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.
ATLANTA is 29-17 (+11.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MEDLEN is 32-10 (+19.6 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
CLEVELAND is 71-61 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 68-58 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CLEVELAND is 47-41 (+8.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
JIMENEZ is 15-10 (+7.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 2-0 (+2.0 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.0 Units)

UBALDO JIMENEZ vs. ATLANTA since 1997
JIMENEZ is 3-4 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 3.78 and a WHIP of 1.426.
His team's record is 3-5 (-2.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-3. (+1.5 units)

KRIS MEDLEN vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
No recent starts.

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**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 09:04 AM

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Thursday, August 29

Hot pitchers
-- Gallardo is 1-0, 2.19 in his last couple starts.

-- Medlen is 2-1, 3.15 in his last three starts. Jimenez is 1-1, 2.31 in his last couple starts.

-- Scherzer is 6-0, 1.66 in his last seven starts.
-- Vargas is 1-0, 3.09 in his last two starts.
-- Lester is 2-0, 0.57 in his last two starts; he is 4-0 in nine home starts. Tillman is 0-1, 2.57 in his last four starts.
-- Seattle won five of last six Ramirez starts (4-1, 5.00). Lyles is 2-0, 3.14 in his last couple starts.

Cold pitchers
-- Torres is 1-1, 6.43 in three starts this year. Martin is 1-1, 6.00 in his last three starts.
-- GGonzalez is 0-3, 7.12 in his last six starts. Koehler is 0-2, 4.84 in his last four starts.
-- Cole is 1-3, 4.30 in his last five starts.

-- Colon is 0-2, 8.53 in his last three starts.
-- Odorizzi is 0-1, 6.14 in three starts, last of which was June 18.
-- Deduno is 1-3, 5.96 in his last four starts. Chen is 0-2, 13./00 in his last two.

Starting Pitchers/First Inning
You can wager on whether teams will score in the first inning. Below is how often a starting pitcher has allowed 1+ runs in first inning in one of his starts........
-- Martin 1-5; Torres 1-3
-- Koehler 6-17; Gonzalez 8-26
-- Gallardo 5-25 (1 of last 7); Cole 3-13 (1 of last 6)

-- Jimenez 6-25 (1 of last 10); Medlen 8-25 (0 of last 6)

-- Colon 6-24; Scherzer 4-26 (0 of last 11)
-- Vargas 2-17; Odorizzi 1-3
-- Chen 2-8; Deduno 6-17 (5 of last 9)
-- Tillman 6-26; Lester 8-27
-- Ramirez 4-7; Lyles 6-20 (1 of last 7)

Totals
-- Under is 12-4-1 in last seventeen Philadelphia games.
-- Over is 5-1-1 in last seven Washington games.
-- Eight of last nine Milwaukee games went over total.

-- Six of last seven Atlanta games stayed under the total.

-- Seven of last eight Oakland games went over the total.
-- Six of last eight Angel games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six Kansas City games.
-- Eight of last twelve Baltimore games went over the total.
-- Eight of last twelve Houston games went over the total.

Hot teams
-- Phillies won eight of their last eleven games.
-- Nationals won seven of their last eight games.
-- Brewers are 8-5 in their last thirteen road games.

-- Atlanta won six of its last seven home games.

-- Oakland won four of its last five games.
-- Angels won four of their last five games, allowing 11 runs.
-- Kansas City won its last four games, scoring 31 runs.
-- Red Sox won five of their last six games.

Cold teams
-- Mets lost eight of their last ten games.
-- Marlins lost six of their last seven games.
-- Pirates lost 11 of their last 18 games.

-- Indians are 2-3 in last five games, scoring twice in last two games.

-- Tigers lost five of their last six home games.
-- Rays lost three of their last four games.
-- Twins lost nine of their last twelve games.
-- Orioles lost last five road games, allowing 31 runs.
-- Mariners lost their last six games, outscored 38-12. Houston lost six of its last nine games.

Umpires
-- Phil-NY-- 10 of last 14 Eddings games went over the total.
-- Mia-Wsh-- Seven of last ten Marquez games stayed under.
-- Mil-Pitt-- Under is 12-0-2 in last fourteen Iassogna games.

-- Clev-Atl-- Favorites won five of last six Nelson games.

-- A's-Det-- Under is 8-4-1 in last thirteen Meals games.
-- LA-TB-- Nine of last eleven Wegner games went over total.
-- KC-Min-- Under is 6-2-1 in last nine Porter games.
-- Blt-Bos-- Five of last seven McClelland games went over.

**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 09:04 AM

MLB

Thursday, August 29

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Trend Report
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1:08 PM
OAKLAND vs. DETROIT
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Oakland's last 10 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Oakland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Detroit is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games at home

1:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. NY METS
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Philadelphia's last 25 games when playing on the road against NY Mets
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 7 games on the road
NY Mets are 3-9 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of NY Mets's last 11 games at home

1:10 PM
LA ANGELS vs. TAMPA BAY
LA Angels are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Angels's last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing LA Angels
Tampa Bay is 7-1 SU in their last 8 games when playing LA Angels

1:10 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. MINNESOTA
Kansas City is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Minnesota
Kansas City is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games on the road
Minnesota is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing Kansas City
Minnesota is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Kansas City

7:05 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 6 games on the road
Milwaukee is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games
Pittsburgh is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home

7:05 PM
MIAMI vs. WASHINGTON
Miami is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 6 games when playing Washington
Washington is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 7 games

7:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland
Atlanta is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games

7:10 PM
BALTIMORE vs. BOSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Baltimore's last 10 games when playing on the road against Boston
The total has gone OVER in 15 of Baltimore's last 23 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Boston's last 10 games when playing Baltimore

8:10 PM
SEATTLE vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Seattle's last 8 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Houston's last 12 games
Houston is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games

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**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 09:06 AM

MLB

Thursday, August 29

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Thursday's MLB betting notes and tips
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NATIONAL

Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets (-112, 8.5)

Cold pitching stat: Phillies right-hander Ethan Martin lasted just two-thirds of an inning in his last start, charged with three runs on three hits and three walks against Arizona.

Cold batting stat: Mets 1B Ike Davis is hitting a paltry .160 with three home runs in 119 day-game at-bats.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow in from right-center field at 7 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 10-2 in the Mets' last 12 Thursday games.

Miami Marlins at Washington Nationals (-220, 7)

Hot pitching stat: Nationals left-hander Gio Gonzalez is 2-2 with a 1.93 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 28 career innings against the Marlins.

Hot batting stat: Marlins OF Giancarlo Stanton is batting .286/.433/.519 with four home runs in 77 at-bats against left-handers.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-70s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will be calm.

Key betting note: The over is 4-1-1 in Miami right-hander Tom Koehler's last six starts on five days' rest.

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates (-171, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Brewers right-hander Yovani Gallardo is 10-4 with a 2.77 ERA and 117 strikeouts over 104 career innings against the Pirates.

Cold batting stat: Pirates 3B Pedro Alvarez has struggled mightly against Gallardo, going just 1-for-17 with eight strikeouts in his career.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-70s under partly cloudy skies. Wind will be calm.

Key betting note: The Pirates are 0-5 in Cole's last five outings following a quality start in his previous appearance.

AMERICAN

Oakland Athletics at Detroit Tigers (-166, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Tigers right-hander Max Scherzer has thrown seven consecutive quality starts, and has given up two or fewer runs in 15 of his last 18 outings.

Hot batting stat: Detroit sluggers Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder are a combined 9-for-18 lifetime against Athletics starter Bartolo Colon.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 7-1 in Oakland's last eight games with umpire Paul Emmel behind home plate.

Kansas City Royals at Minnesota Twins (+107, 8.5)

Hot pitching stat: Twins right-hander Samuel Deduno is 3-1 with a 2.16 ERA in 25 career innings against the Royals.

Hot batting stat: Twins 3B Trevor Plouffe has three home runs in 20 career at-bats against Royals starter Bruce Chen.

Weather: There will be a 30 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms at gametime. Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with the wind blowing in from right field at 7 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 8-2-1 in Chen's last 11 starts.

Los Angeles Angels at Tampa Bay Rays (-148, 8.5)

Cold pitching stat: Angels lefty Jason Vargas is just 2-4 with a 4.37 ERA in eight road starts.

Cold batting stat: Rays 3B Evan Longoria is hitting .242/.326/.478 in 157 day-game at-bats.

Weather: Dome.

Key betting note: Los Angeles has won its last eight Thursday games.

Baltimore Orioles at Boston Red Sox (-154, 9)

Hot pitching stat: Orioles right-hander Chris Tillman tossed two-hit ball over seven shutout innings in a 6-0 victory over the Red Sox on July 26.

Hot batting stat: Baltimore C Matt Wieters has had the upper hand on Red Sox starter Jon Lester, hitting .359 with seven RBIs in 39 career at-bats against him.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-70s with a 45 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow in from right field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: Baltimore is 9-2 in Tillman's last 11 road starts.

Seattle Mariners at Houston Astros (+124, 8.5)

Cold pitching stat: Houston right-hander Jordan Lyles had his worst start of the season in his last encounter with Seattle, lasting just four innings after surrendering 10 runs on eight hits.

Hot batting stat: Astros OF Brandon Barnes is batting .400 with three doubles, a triple and a homer in 35 at-bats against Seattle in 2013.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-80s under partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow out to right-center field at 7 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 6-0 in Houston's last six series openers.

INTERLEAGUE

Cleveland Indians at Atlanta Braves (-156, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Braves right-hander Kris Medlen has walked just one batter in each of his last eight outings, recording four quality starts over that stretch.

Hot batting stat: Atlanta C Brian McCann is hitting .318 in 22 career at-bats against Cleveland starter Ubaldo Jimenez.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s under cloudy skies. Wind will blow in from left field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: Atlanta is 15-3 in Medlen's last 18 starts on five days' rest.

** Odds, probable starting pitchers, weather forecast and stats as of 1:05 p.m. ET Wednesday.

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**Udog** · 08-29-2013, 02:00 PM

MLB
Short Sheet

Thursday, August 29

National League

PHILADELPHIA at NY METS, 1:10 PM ET
MARTIN: PHILADELPHIA is 33-18 UNDER in August games
TORRES: NY METS are 27-38 SU in home games

MIAMI at WASHINGTON, 7:05 PM ET
KOEHLER: MIAMI is 2-14 SU off a one run loss versus a division rival
GONZALEZ: 23-10 TSR after a win

MILWAUKEE at PITTSBURGH, 7:05 PM ET - MLB
GALLARDO: MILWAUKEE is 13-35 SU as a road underdog of +125 to +175
COLE: PITTSBURGH is 43-23 SU in home game

American League

OAKLAND at DETROIT, 1:05 PM ET - MLB
COLON: OAKLAND is 5-0 SU as a road underdog of +150 to +200
SCHERZER: DETROIT is 13-16 SU against AL West opponents

LA ANGELS at TAMPA BAY, 1:10 PM ET
VARGAS: LA ANGELS are 27-44 SU after a loss
ODORIZZI: TAMPA BAY is 37-22 SU when the money line is -100 to -150

KANSAS CITY at MINNESOTA, 1:10 PM ET
CHEN: KANSAS CITY is 26-19 SU in day games
DEDUNO: MINNESOTA is 17-30 SU when the money line is +125 to -125

BALTIMORE at BOSTON, 7:05 PM ET - MLB
TILLMAN: 8-1 TSR as an underdog of +125 to +175
LESTER: 8-13 TSR as a home favorite of -150 to -200

SEATTLE at HOUSTON, 8:10 PM ET
RAMIREZ: SEATTLE is 20-9 OVER when the total is 8.5 to 10
LYLES: 10-1 OVER when the total is 8.5 to 10

Interleague

CLEVELAND at ATLANTA, 7:10 PM ET - MLB
JIMENEZ: 16-33 TSR after 2 or more consecutive losses
MEDLEN: ATLANTA is 33-14 SU after a one run win

Announcement

Thursday's Trends and Indexes - 8/29 (MLB, WNBA, CFL, Misc.)

Thursday's Trends and Indexes - 8/29 (MLB, WNBA, CFL, Misc.)

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