NFL Trends and Indexes - Week 6 (Thursday, October 10 - Monday, October 14)

[WThotrod]

As always, I appreciate the information, Udog! Good luck tonight!

[Udog]

As always, I appreciate the information, Udog! Good luck tonight!

Good morning, rod! Sorry I didn't see this yesterday.

I lost internet early yesterday and didn't get it back until the 4th inning last night.

[Udog]

NFL betting Week 6 preview: Hot bets and moving odds

All odds current as of noon ET, Oct. 10

Setting the bar

We all knew it was coming, but when Denver opened Week 6 as a 27.5-point favorite at home to the Jacksonville Jaguars, you still had to shake your head. It’s the biggest NFL spread and you can make a case for it being even higher by the time kickoff rolls around. After opening at 27.5 Sports Interaction’s line dropped to 26.5 and has been fluttering between there and 27.5 since. Where it ends up is anyone’s guess, but even at this handicap, it may be hard to count on many Jaguars wagers. Denver scored 51 points in last week’s win over Dallas. The Jaguars have scored 51 points this season and are 0-5 against the spread to date. This total is up to 54 points after opening at 51.


Moving on up

The Chicago Bears head into Thursday Night Football looking to avoid a three-game losing against a New York Giants team that might be waving the white flag already. The Giants are 0-5 straight up and against the spread. They have no running game to speak of now that David Wilson is out for a few weeks and are allowing 36.4 points per game. Right now the Bears are holding as 7.5-point favorites, but the total has spiked from 45 points at the open all the way up to 48. Considering the up-tempo offense the Bears want to run and New York’s rotten defense, it’s not all that surprising. The Bears are putting up 29 points per game, good for fourth in the league.


Movers and shakers

Jets supporters have forced the biggest move on the board this week. New York opened as a 3-point underdog at home to Pittsburgh but now sits as a 2-point favorite. The Jets are coming off a huge win in Atlanta and now sit 3-1 against the spread.

Bettors are starting to give the Oakland Raiders a little credit too. They’re 3-1-1 against the spread and saw heavy action when they opened as 10-point underdogs at Kansas City, dropping that line to 8.5. Arrowhead is a tough place to play, but this is a nasty rivalry and Terrelle Pryor is moving the chains so don’t count the Raiders out.

Dallas backers are feeling pretty good about themselves after the Cowboys went shot-for-shot with Denver last week. Dallas opened as a 4.5-point favorite in its Sunday Night Football date with the rival Redskins. From there it jumped to Dallas-6 before settling at -5.5 for now. Robert Griffin III and Washington are coming off a bye and needs this one, but expect loyal Cowboys bettors to come in hard before the kick.


Hot and not

The New Orleans Saints are seeing 88 percent of the action as they head to New England as 2.5-point underdogs.

About 81 percent of Sports Interaction’s handle for the Packers at Ravens game is coming in on Green Bay. The Cheeseheads are 3-point road favorites.

The Detroit Lions travel to Cleveland this week as 2.5-point favorites and are seeing 85 percent of our action, while 88 percent of our bets are coming in on Dallas against Washington

[Udog]

NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 6

Raiders (2-3) @ Chiefs (5-0)—Oakland is 8-3 in last 11 games of this ancient rivalry, with average total in last four, 28.5; Raiders won last six visits to Arrowhead, with three wins by 3 points and other three by 10+- they won 26-16/15-0 in LY’s meetings, but this is new KC team, with a +10 turnover ratio (15-5)- they have yet to allow more than 17 points in any game. Chiefs are 1-1 as home favorites this year (won 17-16/31-7 at home), 4-15-1 since ’07. Oakland is banged-up at RB; after running ball for 171-221 yards in first two games, they’ve averaged 85.7 last three games. Pryor was 18-23/221 passing last week, a big improvement. Since ’08, Raiders are 23-15 as road dog; since ’06, they’re 18-4 as a divisional road underdog. Oakland is +5 in turnovers in last four games, with only three giveaways, and two of those were in game Flynn (since cut) started. NFL-wide, divisional home favorites of 5+ points are 5-3 vs spread this year.

Eagles (2-3) @ Buccaneers (1-3)—Glennon gets second start for Tampa, first since Freeman got cut; he was 24-43/173 in first start, a 13-10 home loss to Arizona that Bucs led 10-0 at half. Tampa hasn’t scored second half point in last two games, has been outscored 31-10 in second half so far this year- they have won four of last five post-bye games (1-0 under Schiano). Foles gets first ’13 first start with Vick (hamstring) out; he started last six games LY, with only win 23-21 here at Tampa in Week 15, going 32-51/381, two TDs, no INTs, not bad. Foles was xx-xx/*** in second half in Swamp last week—Eagles won both division games but are 0-3 outside NFC East, losing by 3-10-32 points. NFC East teams are 2-5 as non-divisional favorites this year; NFC South non-divisional home teams are 4-3. Four of five Eagle games went over total; all four Tampa games stayed under. NFL-wide, non-divisional home underdogs of 5 or less points are 10-6 vs spread.

Packers (2-2) @ Ravens (3-2)—Absence of Pack’s star LB Matthews (thumb) for month should make Green Bay games higher scoring for next few weeks. GB allowed 34 points in losing both its road games, at SF/Cincy, losing to Bengals when they had four of their five takeaways this season. Pack is 17-8 vs spread in last 25 games vs AFC teams; Ravens are 12-7-1 vs NFC teams in Harbaugh era. Ravens are 2-0 at home, allowing 6-9 points (no offensive TDs on 22 drives), allowing three FGs on three red zone drives at home; after running ball for 64 ypg in 2-2 start, they ran it 40 times for 133 yards in narrow win at Miami last week. In its last four games, Baltimore outscored opponents 60-13 in second half, after trailing three of those four games at halftime. NFC North non-divisional favorites are 2-4 vs spread. AFC North non-divisional underdogs are 4-2-1. Non-divisional home underdogs of 4 or less points are 9-6 vs spread.

Lions (3-2) @ Browns (3-2)—So far this season, teams that played on Thursday are 7-1 SU/ATS in next game, as extra rest/prep time obviously helps. Cleveland won all three Hoyer starts, but now he is out for year (ACL) and they’re back to original starter Weeden; Browns averaged 4.1/4.6 per pass attempt in first two games, were at 5.3 or better in Hoyer’s three starts. Over last 10+ years, Detroit is 2-7-2 as a road favorite; they’re 1-2 on road this year, with only win 27-20 at Washington when they threw ball for 378 yards. Question for Lions is health of star WR Johnson; with him late scratch last week, Detroit was outgained 449-286 and scored only one garbage time TD, averaging 4.9 yards/pass attempt, after averaging 7.6 during their 3-1 start (8.8 in Redskin game). Browns’ defense held last three opponents to 4.6 or less yards/pass attempt, but Ponder/Manuel were two of three opposing QBs- they’ll be challenged to match that is Johnson is healthy here.

Panthers (1-3) @ Vikings (1-3)—Tough spot for Viking QB Cassel here, with newly acquired Freeman looming over shoulder, ready to challenge for starting job. Frazier is 0-3 in post-bye games as Viking coach, losing 29-20/45-7/28-10; Minnesota is 3-6-1 as home favorite in Frazier era, losing only home game this year in last minute to Cleveland in what was Hoyer’s first start for Browns (TY 328-409). Vikings should get FB Felton (suspension) back here, which should help open more holes for Peterson, after they ran ball for “only” 127 ypg in 1-3 start. Carolina has outscored foes 37-9 in first half, not allowing a TD, but they’re still just 1-3, outscored 49-16 in second half of their three losses (only win is vs 0-5 Giants). Vikings are 6-4 in this series; Panthers lost five of seven visits here, but haven’t been here since ’08. NFC South non-divisional road teams are 1-5 vs spread. NFC North non-divisional favorites are 2-4-1 vs number.

Rams (2-3) @ Texans (2-3)—Schaub has thrown pick-6 in NFL-record four straight games; confidence in him is low. Backup Yates would be stopgap at best. Houston lost its last three games, getting outscored 46-3 in second half; they haven’t had play of 20+ yards in two of last three games, only NFL team to have game without 20+ yard play this season and now Schaub’s favorite target, TE Daniels (leg) is out. Rams got smoked in both road games, falling behind 21-0/24-0; they didn’t turn ball over last week but did have punt blocked- they may have found starting RB in Vandy rookie Stacy (Rams ran for 143 yards last week). Road teams won both games in this seldom played series, but Fisher went 13-5 vs Texans while coaching Titans. AFC South teams are 4-11 vs spread outside the division, 1-4 when favored; non-divisional home favorites of 4+ points are 15-6 vs spread this season. Four of five Ram games and both Houston home games went over the total.

Steelers (0-4) @ Jets (3-2)—Winless Pitt won last five post-bye games, and 18 of 22 against Jets (4-3 last 7), who upset Falcons in Atlanta Monday night; Jets lost 27-10 at Heinz LY, are different team under emerging rookie QB Smith, who was 16-20/170 with no turnovers Monday. Jets were held to 10-13 points (eight TO’s, -8 in two losses; they’ve scored 18-27-30 points in wins, with four TOs (-1) in three games, so when they protect ball, they’ve been pretty good. Jets are 3-6 vs spread in game following their last nine wins; they’re 2-0 at home, beating Bucs/Bills. Under Tomlin, underdog is 19-10-1 in Steeler games where spread was 3 or less points; they’re 13-5 in last 18 games as an underdog of 3 or less points. 0-4 Steelers allowed 74 points in losing last three games; they’re already -11 in turnovers, with no takeaways yet!!! This is Steelers’ first visit to Swamp to play Jets since ’07. Last three Jet games, last two Pitt tilts went over the total.

Bengals (3-2) @ Bills (2-3)—Thaddeus Lewis gets 2nd NFL start for Bills, whose three home games (2-1, dog 3-0 vs spread) were decided by total of six points; we note again that teams that played previous Thursday are 7-1 SU/ATS this year, so Bills had extra rest/prep time, important when breaking in new starting QB. How will Bengals handle road trap game after beating Patriots last week, holding Brady without TD pass (first time in 53 games)? Cincy is 17-7 vs spread in game following its last 24 wins, but they’ve lost both road games this year (at Bears/Browns) and scored total of only 19 points (one TD on 21 drives) in last two games. Three of last four Bengal games stayed under total; three of last four Buffalo games went over. AFC East non-divisional home teams are 5-1 vs spread; AFC North non-divisional favorites are 2-3. Lewis started for four years at Duke under Cutcliffe, who coached both Manning brothers and is well-regarded QB guru.

Titans (3-2) @ Seahawks (4-1)—Seattle won its two home games 29-3/45-17, outscoring teams 29-0 in first half; Seahawks are 19-7 vs spread at home under Carroll, 9-2 as home favorites; they’ve won five of last six games vs Titans, who are 2-6 in eight visits here, with wins in ‘77/’09. First road game in four weeks for Titans, who covered first two with Locker at QB; they’re 14-8-1 in last 23 games as non-divisional road dogs, but have backup QB Fitzpatrick (21-41/234, 2 INTs last week) playing now. Over last four games, Seattle averaged 181.3 rushing yards/game, but have to be little concerned with passing game that completed less than half its passes in each of last two games. NFC West non-divisional favorites are 6-2 vs spread, 4-1 at home. AFC South non-divisional dogs are 3-7 vs spread, 2-4 on road. Double digit favorites are 4-3 vs spread in NFL games this season. Seattle’s next two games are divisional primetime road games; this is their only home game in five-week stretch.

Jaguars (0-5) @ Broncos (5-0)—Biggest pointspread in NFL history for this one; hard for Denver not to be flat, with Manning’s return to Indy set for primetime next week, but former Jax HC Del Rio is Broncos’ DC- his unit is less likely to look past team that fired him. Only one of Broncos’ five wins was by more than 18 points, but that said, Denver is juggernaut right now, converting 58% of 3rd down plays, scoring 26 TDs on 55 drives, with nine FG tries and only ten 3/outs (three in last three games). Jaguars showed some life on offense last week with explosive WR Blackmon back on field, but 34-20 loss at struggling St Louis doesn’t bode well here, no matter how high the spread. AFC West non-divisional favorites are 7-2 vs spread, 4-1 at home; AFC South underdogs are 3-7 vs spread, 2-4 on road. Jaguars won five of last six series games, winning last two visits here, but that was all before #18 came to town. All five Bronco games went over the total.

Cardinals (3-2) @ 49ers (3-2)—Niners won seven of last eight series games, with last six wins all by 14+ points; Cardinals lost last four visits here by average score of 29-9- they scored 9 or less points in five of last seven series games. SF is bully team, trying to run ball down your throat; they won 25-11/34-3 last two weeks, running ball 76 times for 396 yards (5.2/carry) after averaging just 101.7 rushing yards in first three games. SF is 13-4-1 as home favorites under Harbaugh, 4-4 when laying double digits. Arizona hasn’t allowed second half point (32-0) last two weeks; they won three of last four games, allowing only one TD on 25 drives since 31-7 loss in Superdome, Since 2011, they’re 10-7-1 as road underdogs, 2-1 under Arians. Redbird defense held four of five opponents under 100 rushing yards, with Saints (104) only team to break century mark. This year in NFL, divisional home favorites of 5+ points are 5-3 against spread.

Saints (5-0) @ Patriots (4-1)— Explosive/diverse Saint offense (11 TDs on last 31 drives) visits Foxboro week after Brady’s 52-game streak with at least one TD pass came to end in monsoon at Cincy. NO is averaging 31 ppg at home, 21 on road; they’ve only run ball for 80+ yards in one of five games and have struggled in red zone on road (one TD, five TDs on seven red zone drives on road, 7 TDs, 4 FGs on 11 such home drives). Patriots were just 1-12 on 3rd down last week, after converting 28-66 (42.4%) in first four games; the two games they rushed for less than 130 yards, Pats were held to 13-6 points- they averaged 148.7 ypg, 25.3 ppg in other three games. NO allows 108.6 rushing yards/game. NFC South non-divisional road teams are 1-5 vs spread; AFC East non-divisional home teams are 5-1. Patriots are 8-4 in series, with Saints 3-4 here. Four of first five games for both teams stayed under the total. Non-divisional home favorites of 3 or less points are 3-9-2 vs spread so far this season.

Redskins (1-3) @ Cowboys (2-3)—Washington comes in off first win, then its bye; last year was Skins’ first post-bye win the last five years. Extra week had to be good for Texas native Griffin’s rehab process; Redskins swept Dallas 38-31/28-18 LY, just second time they’ve done that in last 18 years (’05 being other year). Skins lost three of last four visits here, with losses by combined total of six points (1-3-2). Dallas is off 51-48 loss in epic home battle vs Broncos, which had to be little draining for both sides; Cowboys lost three of last four games but are 2-0 as home favorites this year, after being 3-17 from 2010-12. Cowboys are moving ball well; only 15 of their last 110 plays came on third down, but defense was torched for 808 passing yards last two weeks, by Rivers/Manning (9.2/9.9 ypa). Divisional home favorites are 10-6 vs spread, 5-3 if number was 5+ points. Four of last five series totals were 46+.

Colts (4-1) @ Chargers (2-3)—Colts’ HC Chuck Pagano faces his brother John, Chargers’ DC. Chargers allowed 20+ points in all five games; they’re 0-3 when scoring less than 30 points, with losses by 3-3-10 points. Indy won/covered last three games, winning 27-7/37-3 in two road games, with first of those wins in Candlestick. Colts are 7-3 under Pagano in games where spread was 3 or less points; they’re +6 in turnovers, with only four giveaways in five games. San Diego has only three takeaways (-7) in five games; they’ve won five of last six series games, and this is first-post Manning meeting; Indy’s last visit here was 23-17 loss in ’08 playoffs. NFC South non-divisional road teams are 4-11 vs spread, 2-6 on road; AFC West teams are 14-4 vs spread outside their division, 5-1 as dogs, 6-2 at home. Non-divisional home underdogs of less than 5 points are 10-6 vs spread this season. Over is 3-1-1 in San Diego games this season.

[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Sunday's NFL Week 6 betting cheat sheet: Early action
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Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens (+1, 49)

Joe Flacco is off to a bit of a slow start but could turn things around quickly against a poor pass defense missing its best outside rusher. Flacco will attempt to do just that when the Baltimore Ravens host the banged-up Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

Aaron Rodgers is on the opposite end of the quarterback spectrum with nine touchdowns and three picks but does not have his team in any better position. Green Bay is winless on the road, where it served up 34 points in each of its losses to San Francisco and Cincinnati.

LINE: The Ravens opened +3 and are now +1. The total opened 48 and is up to 49.
WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for a 40 percent chance of rain.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Green Bay (-5.0) - Baltimore (-0.5) + home field (-3.0) = Packers -1.5
TRENDS:

* Home team is 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Favorite is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Packers are 0-4 ATS in their last four road games.


Philadelphia Eagles at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+1, 45.5)

Philadelphia, vying for consecutive wins for the first time in 20 games, finds itself tied for first with Dallas in the weak NFC East despite the losing record. No matter who is under center, running back LeSean McCoy — who leads the NFL with 514 yards rushing and 700 yards from scrimmage — is sure to see a lot of action as part of the league's top rushing attack at 186.6 yards per game.

Second-year coach Greg Schiano has come increasingly under fire as Tampa Bay has lost nine of its past 10 games and five in a row at home dating to last season. His handling of quarterback Josh Freeman, who was benched and later released after a particularly ugly falling out, has intensified the criticism.

LINE: The game opened as a pick with the Bucs moving to +1. The total is 45.5.
WEATHER: Skies will be clear and temperatures will be in the mid-80s.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Philadelphia (+1.5) - Tampa Bay (+5.5) + home field (-3.0) = Eagles -1
TRENDS:

* Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Under is 7-0 in Buccaneers last seven vs. NFC.
* Eagles are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games following a bye week.


Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets (+1, 41)

Pittsburgh was on a bye following a 34-27 loss to Minnesota in London, but saw one team captain exchanged not-so-friendly fire in the direction of another during the week off. Safety Ryan Clark took issue with Ben Roethlisberger's improvisation, saying that the quarterback's tendency to go off the page often leads to turnovers.

The Jets are second in the league in yards allowed (299), but placed LB Antwan Barnes on injured reserve after his knee buckled in Monday's victory over the Falcons. Barnes had two sacks while leading the club with 12 quarterback hits.

LINE: The Jets opened as 1-point home dogs. The total opened at 40 and is up to 41.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with wind blowing across the field at 7 mph.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Pittsburgh (+5.0) - New York (+3.5) + home field (-3.0) = Jets -4.5
TRENDS:

* Home team is 6-2 ATS in their last eight meetings.
* Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last five games in Week 6.
* Under is 4-0 in Steelers last four vs. AFC.


Carolina Panthers at Minnesota Vikings (-1, 44)

The Panthers routed the New York Giants 38-0 in Week 3 behind QB Cam Newton's best game of the season, but they were unable to maintain that momentum after their bye week. Newton hasn't been much of a factor in the run game and Carolina has only two rushing touchdowns.

The Minnesota Vikings don't know who will be their quarterback on Sunday. Regardless of who starts this week, it's likely to be Freeman's job soon enough after he signed a prorated $3 million deal following his release in Tampa Bay.

LINE: The Vikes opened -1. The total opened 44.5 and is down to 44.
WEATHER: N/A
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Carolina (+3.0) - Minnesota (+4.5) + home field (-3.0) = Vikings -1.5
TRENDS:

* Under is 4-0 in the last four meetings.
* Panthers are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a bye week.
* Home team is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings.


Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-9.5, 41)

The Kansas City Chiefs will try to keep alive one streak while ending another when they host the rival Oakland Raiders on Sunday. One of three remaining unbeatens in the NFL, the Chiefs are aiming for their first 6-0 start since they opened the 2003 season with nine consecutive wins. However, they have lost six straight home games against Oakland and six of the past eight meetings overall.

Raiders QB Terrelle Pryor was 18-for-23 for 221 yards and a pair of touchdowns against San Diego and has completed 72.5 percent of his passes without throwing an interception in his last two games.

LINE: The Chiefs opened -9.5. The total opened 40.5 and is up to 41.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with clear skies. Wind will blow from E at 7 mph.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Oakland (+5.5) - Kansas City (-2.5) + home field (-3.0) = Chiefs -11
TRENDS:

* Underdog is 11-1 ATS in their last 12 meetings.
* Raiders are 7-0 ATS in their last seven meetings in Kansas City.
* Chiefs are 1-5 ATS in their last six vs. AFC West.


St. Louis Rams at Houston Texans (-7.5, 42)

Rams QB Sam Bradford is coming off a three-touchdown performance against Jacksonville and has thrown for 1,315 yards and 10 scores. St. Louis ranks 29th in the NFL in rushing offense and team leader Daryl Richardson (162 yards) averages a paltry 2.9 yards per carry but rookie Zac Stacy impressed with 78 yards against the Jaguars in his first career start.

Quarterback Matt Schaub is experiencing a miserable stretch and might need a strong rebound performance to retain his job when the Texans host the Rams Sunday. Schaub has thrown a pick-six interception in four consecutive games – the first NFL player to ever do so – and his struggles have been magnified by a three-game losing streak.

LINE: The Texans opened -6.5 and are now -7.5. The total opened 43 and is down to 42.
WEATHER: N/A
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: St. Louis (+6.5) - Houston (+1.0) + home field (-3.0) = Texans -8.5
TRENDS:

* Rams are 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Texans are 0-6 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Rams last five games overall.


Cincinnati Bengals at Buffalo Bills (+6, 41.5)

Cincinnati's stellar defensive performance last week overshadowed another mediocre effort by quarterback Andy Dalton and the offense, which has managed one TD in two games.

Buffalo seeks its third straight home win behind the well-traveled Thaddeus Lewis, whose only career start came in the 2012 regular-season finale, when he threw for 204 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

LINE: The Bengals opened -9.5 and are now -6. The total opened 42 and is down to 41.5.
WEATHER: There is a 35 percent chance of rain in the forecast. Wind will blow across the field at 7 mph.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Cincinnati (-2.0) + Buffalo (+7.0) + home field (-3.0) = Bengals -6.0
TRENDS:

* Over is 5-0 in the last five meetings.
* Bengals are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Under is 4-0 in Bills last four games following a ATS loss


Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns (+1, 44)

Detroit enters Week 6 tied with the Chicago Bears for the top spot in the NFC North after suffering a 22-9 loss at division rival Green Bay last Sunday. Defensive end Ziggy Ansah leads all NFL rookies with 3.5 sacks.

Cleveland has been one of the surprise teams in the league in the early going, reeling off three consecutive victories after losing its first two games. The Browns, who share first place in the AFC North with the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals, rallied from an early 10-point deficit and scored the final 20 points en route to a 37-24 triumph over Buffalo in Week 5.

LINE: The Browns opened +3 and have been bet up to +1. The total opened at 46 and is down to 44.
WEATHER: There is a 25 percent chance of rain. Wind will blow toward the East endzone at 6 mph.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Detroit (-1.0) + Cleveland (+3.0) + home field (-3.0) = Lions -1.0
TRENDS:

* Lions are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games.
* Under is 4-1 in Lions last five games on grass.
* Browns are 7-3-1 ATS in their last 11 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.


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[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Sunday's NFL Week 6 betting cheat sheet: Late action
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Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks (-13.5, 40.5)

The Titans are trying to get running back Chris Johnson (294 yards) untracked after he had just 38 yards on 25 carries over the past two games against the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs. Tennessee is 1-1 on the road and is one game behind Indianapolis in the AFC South.

The Seattle Seahawks are nearly invincible at home and seek their 11th consecutive victory at CenturyLink Field when they face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. NFC West-leading Seattle has won this season’s two home games against San Francisco and Jacksonville by a combined 54 points and thrives while playing in perhaps the top home-field environment in the league.

LINE: The line opened Seattle -13.5. The total is currently 40.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-50s with wind blowing toward the S endzone at 4 mph.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Tennessee (+1.0) - Seattle (-8.0) + home field (-3.0) = Seahawks -12.0
TRENDS:

* Underdog is 5-0 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Seahawks are 13-3 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Titans are 2-9-1 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.


Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos (-26, 53)

The Jacksonville Jaguars have won the last three meetings with the Denver Broncos, but that seems like ancient history as the teams prepare for what is expected to be a lopsided contest Sunday in Denver.

Denver has won 16 straight regular-season games after a 51-48 shootout at Dallas last week. Peyton Manning (1,884 passing yards, 20 TDs) has the offense moving at a record clip, having scored 230 points through five games - the most in NFL history.

LINE: The line opened Broncos -27.5 and is now -26. The total opened 51.5 and is now up to 53.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with partly cloudy skies.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Jacksonville (+10.5) - Denver (-9.5) + home field (-3.0) = Broncos -23
TRENDS:

* Underdog is 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings.
* Over is 5-1 in the last six meetings in Denver.
* Jaguars are 0-6 ATS in their last six games overall.


New Orleans Saints at New England Patriots (-1, 50.5)

New Orleans is one of three undefeated teams in the NFL after passing a big test at Chicago a week ago. The Saints, who have their own star tight end in Jimmy Graham -- who leads the league with 593 receiving yards and ranks third in the NFL in total offense.

The Pats got back wide receiver Danny Amendola in last week's 13-6 setback but he caught just four passes and looked rusty as New England failed to score a touchdown for the first time since a 16-9 loss to the Jets in 2009.

LINE: The Pats opened -1. The total opened 49.5 and is up to 50.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-60s under clear skies.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: New Orleans (-6.0) - New England (-5.5) + home field (-3.0) = Patriots -2.5
TRENDS:

* Saints are 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Over is 9-2 in Saints last 11 vs. a team with a winning record.
* Patriots are 28-12-1 ATS in their last 41 games following a S.U. loss.


Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers (-10.5, 41)

With Arizona adding quarterback Carson Palmer to the mix in the offseason, it was expected that the Cardinals' passing game would improve dramatically over years past. That has yet to happen, however. The Cardinals rank 22nd in passing yardage per game and Palmer has struggled to find the open man.

The San Francisco 49ers are back to their dominant selves following back-to-back one-sided losses last month. San Francisco has won seven of the last eight meetings, including a 27-13 decision in their previous encounter Dec. 30.

LINE: The 49ers opened -11 and are now -10.5. The total opened 41.5 and is down to 41.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-60s with clear and sunny skies.
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Arizona (+3.0) - San Francisco (-4.0) + home field (-3.0) = 49ers -10
TRENDS:

* Cardinals are 2-7 ATS in their last nine meetings.
* 49ers are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games in October.
* Over is 12-4 in 49ers last 16 games overall.


Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys (-5.5, 52)

Washington is looking for its first divisional victory and emerged from the dregs of the winless with a 24-14 triumph at Oakland in Week 4. The Redskins surrendered an average of 32.7 points in their first three games but tightened things up in the victory over Oakland, holding the Raiders to 298 yards while forcing three turnovers.

Dallas is tied for first place in the unimpressive NFC East and is staring at two straight divisional opponents with a trip to Philadelphia scheduled for Week 7. The Cowboys proved they could hang with anyone offensively last week, and Tony Romo found a third receiver in Terrance Williams (151 yards, one touchdown) to go along with Dez Bryant and tight end Jason Witten and give the offense another dimension.

LINE: The Cowboys opened -4.5 and have been bet up to -5.5. The total opened 53 and is down to 52.
WEATHER: N/A
COVERS POWER RANKINGS: Washington (+2.5) - Dallas (-2.0) + home field (-3.0) = Cowboys -7.5
TRENDS:

* Redskins are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 meetings.
* Cowboys are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 vs. NFC.
* Over is 20-8 in Cowboys last 28 home games.


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[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Packers at Ravens: What bettors need to know
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Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens (+1, 49)

Joe Flacco is off to a bit of a slow start but could turn things around quickly against a poor pass defense missing its best outside rusher. Flacco will attempt to do just that when the Baltimore Ravens host the banged-up Green Bay Packers on Sunday. The Packers will be without top pass rusher Clay Matthews, who suffered a broken thumb last week and could miss a month.

The Ravens are 3-2 but Flacco owns more interceptions (eight) than touchdown passes (five) after signing a giant contract following a Super Bowl win last season. Aaron Rodgers is on the opposite end of the quarterback spectrum with nine touchdowns and three picks but does not have his team in any better position. Green Bay is winless on the road, where it served up 34 points in each of its losses to San Francisco and Cincinnati.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX.
LINE: The Packers opened -3 and are now -1. The total opened 48 and is up to 49.
WEATHER: There is a 40 percent chance of rain in the forecast. Wind will blow across the field at 8 mph.

ABOUT THE PACKERS (2-2): Matthews’ absence means Green Bay will turn to a combination of Mike Neal and Nick Perry rushing the passer. Those two combined for three sacks in a win over the Detroit Lions last week and will start on the outside, while the inside linebacker spots are thin after injuries to Brad Jones (hamstring) and Robert Francois (Achilles). Rodgers is coming off an efficient 274-yard, one-touchdown performance in a 22-9 win over the Detroit Lions but will again be without one of his weapons in leading rusher James Starks (knee), leaving the bulk of the carries to rookie Eddie Lacy.

ABOUT THE RAVENS (3-2): Flacco’s last two weeks were the worst of the bunch, with the Super Bowl MVP completing only 53.7 percent of his passes with two touchdowns and six interceptions. Flacco was picked up in last week’s 26-23 victory at Miami by his defense, which surrendered just 22 rushing yards and sacked Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill six times. After getting shredded by the Denver Broncos in the season opener, Baltimore’s defense is working its way back into form by stopping the run and playing tight in the red zone.

TRENDS:

* Packers are 0-4 ATS in their last four road games.
* Ravens are 1-5 ATS in their last six games in October.
* Under is 6-1 in Ravens last seven games on fieldturf.
* Under is 5-2 in Packers last seven vs. a team with a winning record.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Rodgers has 29 TD passes in his last 11 games against AFC teams.

2. Ravens WR Torrey Smith leads the AFC with 556 receiving yards and is averaging 20.6 yards per catch.

3. Baltimore is 13-0 in its last 13 home games against NFC opponents.


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[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Jaguars at Broncos: What bettors need to know
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Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos (-26, 53)

The Jacksonville Jaguars have won the last three meetings with the Denver Broncos, but that seems like ancient history as the teams prepare for what is expected to be a lopsided contest Sunday in Denver. The Broncos, one of three unbeaten teams in the league, are racking up offensive numbers at a record-breaking pace and they've been installed as the largest favorite in NFL history against a winless Jaguars squad. "I think you're in this long enough, whether you're a player or a coach, and we've got enough veteran leadership in there that understands that we don't look at records," Broncos coach John Fox told reporters. "We don't look at point spreads."

Any way of looking at it reveals a mismatch, though, as the Broncos average an NFL-best 46 points while the Jaguars rank last in the league in total offense and scoring offense and 31st in scoring defense. Chad Henne is expected to be back under center for Jacksonville with Blaine Gabbert slowed by a hamstring injury. "Chad's played a lot the last two years, and we have a lot with him in practice, so it's not a big deal at all," receiver Cecil Shorts told the team's website. "We're confident in him."

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS.
LINE: The Broncos opened -27.5 and are now -26. The total opened 51.5 and is up to 53.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with partly cloudy skies.

ABOUT THE JAGUARS (0-5): Jacksonville's offense has been punchless regardless of who is under center, but its 363 total yards in last week's 34-20 loss at St. Louis marked a season high. The return of receiver Justin Blackmon from a four-game suspension helped, as the second-year wideout had five catches for 136 yards and a touchdown. The defense has been the worst in the league against the run and surprisingly solid against the pass, but that will be tested against Denver's explosive air attack.

ABOUT THE BRONCOS (5-0): Denver has won 16 straight regular-season games after a 51-48 shootout at Dallas last week. Peyton Manning (1,884 passing yards, 20 TDs) has the offense moving at a record clip, having scored 230 points through five games - the most in NFL history. The defense has been susceptible against the pass but leads the league against the run, allowing 69.6 rushing yards per game.

TRENDS:

* Over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Denver.
* Jaguars are 0-6 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Broncos are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven vs. AFC.
* Over is 20-6-1 in Broncos last 27 home games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. The Broncos have scored 52 and 51 points the past two games, while Jacksonville has scored a total of 51 points in five games.

2. Broncos WR Wes Welker has caught a touchdown pass in seven straight games dating to last season and needs one reception to reach 800 in his career.

3. Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew has averaged 111.5 rushing yards in his past two games versus Denver.


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[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Steelers at Jets: What bettors need to know
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Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets (+1, 41)

Mired in one of the worst starts in franchise history, the Pittsburgh Steelers attempt to change their fortunes against an opponent that is taking great strides toward doing that very thing. The Steelers vie for their first win of the season on Sunday when they visit the New York Jets, who showed their mettle with a 30-28 triumph in Atlanta on Monday night. Rookie quarterback Geno Smith was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week after completing 16-of-20 passes - three of which resulted in touchdowns.

Pittsburgh was on a bye following a 34-27 loss to Minnesota in London, but saw one team captain exchanged not-so-friendly fire in the direction of another during the week off. Safety Ryan Clark took issue with Ben Roethlisberger's improvisation, saying that the quarterback's tendency to go off the page often leads to turnovers. "It is what it is," Roethlisberger replied. "I'm just going to play the game the way that I play it and try not to turn it over."

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS.
LINE: The Jets opened +1. The total opened at 40 and is up to 41.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with partly cloudy skies.

ABOUT THE STEELERS (0-4): For all of the considerable negatives, Pittsburgh did experience a positive as rookie Le'Veon Bell scored twice in his NFL debut against Minnesota. The Steelers hope they've aided in the development of the second-round selection by acquiring Levi Brown from Arizona and demoting fellow offensive tackle Mike Adams. After restructuring his contract in the offseason, Antonio Brown (team-leading 32 receptions) has settled into the top wide receiver role in the wake of Mike Wallace's departure to Miami.

ABOUT THE JETS (3-2): Antonio Cromartie, who was expected to keep tabs on Brown, injured his knee during practice Thursday. The veteran underwent an MRI exam and his potential absence could weaken an already-thin cornerback position with rookie Dee Milliner nursing a hamstring injury. With veteran wideout Santonio Holmes (hamstring) expected to miss his second straight game, Smith could once again look for Jeremy Kerley, who reeled in five receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown against the Falcons. Tight ends Jeff Cumberland and Kellen Winslow lead the team with two touchdowns apiece. Bilal Powell has been consistent albeit unspectacular by averaging 4.2 yards per carry while fellow running backs Chris Ivory and Mike Goodson are still getting their feet under them.

TRENDS:

* Over is 6-1 in Steelers last seven games in Week 6.
* Home team is 6-2 ATS in their last eight meetings.
* Steelers are 1-4 ATS in their last five vs. AFC.
* Over is 10-4 in Jets last 14 games in October.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. The Jets are second in the league in yards allowed (299), but placed LB Antwan Barnes on injured reserve after his knee buckled in Monday's victory over the Falcons. Barnes had two sacks while leading the club with 12 quarterback hits.

2. The Steelers have won 16 of the 20 meetings versus the Jets - with two of those victories coming in the postseason.

3. New York G Willie Colon spent his first seven years of his career with Pittsburgh.


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[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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NFL Top 5: Key Week 6 injuries
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The New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions could all be down star players as they take to the field for Week 6. With statuses still in doubt, bettors will want to keep an eye on all three teams - as well as several others that face major injury issues.

Here's a look at the five biggest injury impacts entering the bulk of Week 6:

Rob Gronkowski, TE, New England Patriots (questionable, back/forearm)

The ongoing Gronkowski saga took another bizarre turn this week. It was widely reported that the versatile tight end was expected to return to action this week, but his status remains in limbo as doctors have yet to clear him for a return to action. Gronkowski's problematic forearm injury hasn't healed to their satisfaction, leaving Tom Brady's top receiving target as a lessor factor even if he is somehow cleared prior to Sunday afternoon.

The Patriots are installed as one-point favorites for Sunday's tilt with the visiting New Orleans Saints. The over/under is set at 50.5.


Michael Vick, QB, Philadelphia Eagles (questionable, hamstring)

Vick returned to practice as a full participant Friday, but the Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Vick is still doubtful to take the field as he nurses a strained hamstring. There's still a chance Vick may remain active as the emergency backup to Nick Foles. Regardless, bettors should proceed as if Foles will play the entire game as the Eagles look to rest Vick in preparation for a Week 7 showdown with Dallas.

The Eagles are listed as one-point underdogs Sunday against Tampa Bay, with the over/under at 45.5.


Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit Lions (questionable, knee)

There is hope for Lions fans this week, with beat writer Tim Twentyman reporting that last year's league leader in receiving yards will be in the lineup Sunday. Johnson missed last week's game with a knee injury but participated in the open portion of Friday's practice. Head coach Jim Schwartz remains noncommittal, suggesting that Johnson will be a game-time decision.

The Lions are one-point favorites for Sunday afternoon's showdown with the host Cleveland Browns. The over/under is set at 44.


Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland Raiders (questionable, hamstring)

McFadden's status remains shrouded in mystery; the veterain running back practiced every day this week, but San Fransico Chronicle reporter Vic Tafur writes that he doesn't get the sense McFadden is ready to return to game action. The injury-prone 26-year-old told reporters he felt "pretty close" to full speed. McFadden's absence would mean a large workload for Rashad Jennings, who is returning from his own hamstring injury but is expected to play.

The Raiders go into Sunday's game against the host Kansas City Chiefs as 9.5-point underdogs. The over/under is 41.


Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego Chargers (probable, concussion)

Mathews was knocked silly in last weekend's game against the Oakland Raiders but has progressed nicely throughout the week and was a full participant in Saturday's practice. He passed the final hurdle Saturday when he cleared his concussion protocol. Mathews will be installed as San Diego's feature back, though he's a distant third on the pecking order on passing downs to the red-hot Danny Woodhead and veteran Ronnie Brown.

The Chargers find themselves a one-point favorite for the Monday nighter against visiting Indianapolis. The over/under is set at 50.


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[Udog]

NFL betting weather report: Sunday's forecasts

Find out how weather will impact your NFL bets for Sunday's matchups:

Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens (+1, 49)
Temperatures will be in the low-60s with a 34 percent chance of rain. Wind will blow diagonally from the northeast at 9 mph.


Philadelphia Eagles at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+1, 45.5)
Fans at Raymond James Stadium will be treated to sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-80s. Wind will blow out of the northwest at 7 mph.


Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets (+1, 41)
Temperatures at MetLife Stadium will be in the mid-60s with wind blowing across the width of the field at 7 mph and partly cloudy skies.


Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-9.5, 41)
Arrowhead Stadium will see sunny skies with temperatures in the mid-60s and wind blowing diagonally out of the east at 7 mph.


Cincinnati Bengals at Buffalo Bills (+6, 41.5)
Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with overcast skies and a 38 percent chance of rain later in the day. Wind will blow across the width of the field at 4 mph.


Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns (+1, 44)
Fans at FirstEnergy Stadium face a 25 percent chance of rain with wind blowing diagonally out of the northwest at 6 mph and temperatures in the mid-60s.


Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks (-13.5, 41)
Temperatures at CenturyLink Field will be in the mid-50s with partly cloudy skies and wind blowing diagonally out of the northwest at 6 mph


Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos (-26, 53)
Temperatures will be in the mid-60s with partly cloudy skies and winds blowing diagonally out of the southeast at 3 mph.


New Orleans Saints at New England Patriots (+1, 50.5)
Gillette Stadium will see clear skies with temperatures in the high-50s and wind blowing across the width of the field at 6 mph.


Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers (-10.5, 41)
Temperatures at Candlestick Park will be in the low-60s with clear skies and wind blowing across the width of the field at 7 mph.

[Udog]

Essential betting tidbits for Week 6 of the NFL

We dug up these vital betting tidbits for some of Sunday's NFL action that will help you make the right call before kickoff.

- The Baltimore Ravens are 13-0 in their last 13 home games against NFC opponents.

- The Packers have lost five of the last six games on the road dating back to Week 11 of the 2012.

- Nick Foles, who will likely start under center for the Eagles Sunday, was 1-5 in six starts as a rookie last year.

- The underdog is 4-1 ATS in the previous five meetings between the Eagles and Bucs. Tampa Bay is a 1-point home dog.

- The Pittsburgh Steelers have won 16 of the previous 20 meetings against the New York Jets.

- Jets rookie QB Geno Smith was 16-for-20 with three TD passes en route to a 30-28 victory over the Atlanta Falcons and AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.

- The Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers have played Under in four straight meetings and eight of the last 10. Sunday's total is 44.

- The Oakland Raiders are 7-0 ATS in the last seven meetings in Kansas City.

- Chiefs fans will attempt to set the world record for crowd noise at Arrowhead Sunday. Seattle Seahawks fans set the record in the Sept. 16 rout over the San Francisco 49ers.

- Rams coach Jeff Fisher went 7-3 against Gary Kubiak’s Houston teams when he was coach of the Tennessee Titans.

- Speaking of the Texans, they are one of just three teams (Jacksonville Jaguars, Pittsburgh Steelers) to have not covered a spread this season. Houston is a 7.5-point home fave Sunday.

- The Cincinnati Bengals have lost six straight games in Buffalo. Their last win was in November 1985.

- Buffalo will start Thaddeus Lewis at QB. Lewis will make his second career start. The Bills are 6-point home dogs Sunday.

- Brandon Weeden returns to starting-QB duties for the Cleveland Browns. Weeden was under center for both Cleveland's losses this season.

- The Lions' two losses have come on the road and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games. They are 1-point road faves Sunday.

- The Seattle Seahawks have won 10-straight games at CenturyLink Field and are 9-1 ATS over that stretch. They are 13.5-point home faves against Tennessee Sunday.

- The Titans defense held the Chiefs to 1-for-12 on third-down conversions last week. The Seahawks rank 28th in the league as they convert just 4.0 third downs per game.

- The Denver Broncos scored 51 points last week against Dallas. The Jacksonville Jaguars have scored 51 points in five games this season.

- The Broncos sport the NFL's only 5-0 O/U record (the Vikings are 4-0 O/U). Sunday's total versus Jacksonville is 53.

- Tom Brady had a passer rating of 52.2 in last week's loss to Cincinnati. It was his lowest rating since 2007.

- The New Orleans Saints have the fewest turnovers in the NFC with five.

- The road team is 11-4 ATS in the last 15 meetings between the Cardinals and 49ers. The Cardinals are 10.5-point road underdogs Sunday.

- Tony Romo has done his best work at home. The QB has 19 TDs and just two INTs in his previous six home games.

- The Redskins are 6-0 in their last six games in Dallas. The Skins are 5.5-point road dogs in Dallas Sunday.

[Udog]

Where the action is: Sunday's NFL line moves

Week 6 of the 2013 NFL schedule brought us an historic pointspread in the Jacksonville Jaguars and Denver Broncos matchup. Denver opened as a 27.5-point fave at most wagering locales, but it's the Over that has sharps and the wagering public racing to their favorite book.

And with good reason.

The Broncos boast a 5-0 Over/Under record as they head into Week 6 and are coming off an epic shootout against the Dallas Cowboys where the two teams combined for 99 points.

We talk to an oddsmaker at BetDSI about the biggest adjustments to the Week 6 odds and where the action is heading into Sunday's kickoffs:

Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs - Open: -10, Move: -8

Most shops opened with the Chiefs in the -9.5 to -10 vicinity and sharps instantly sided with the Raiders, promptly adjusting the line, where the public has jumped on the undefeated Chiefs.

"Sharp versus public split on this matchup with sharps backing Oakland at the +9.5 through +10 (-115) values," said an oddsmaker with BetDSI. "The public is 100 percent on Kansas City at -7.5 to -8."


Philadelphia Eagles at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Open: Pick, Move: +3, Move: +2.5

With quarterback subplots making headlines on both teams recently, this matchup opened as a pick at most wagering outlets. Michael Vick looks to be reportedly out for the Eagles, which has sharp money all over the Bucs.

Our contact with BetDSI says that public factions are backing the Eagles at -3 (+100).


Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns - Open: +3, Move: +2.5

Here we have yet another game which has public and sharp bettors divided. The Browns have been a pleasant story in recent weeks, but Brandon Weedon will be under center for the Browns and he's been the starter for both of Cleveland's losses.

That hasn't stopped sharp bettors, however, who have been backing the Browns.

"Sharp bettors are taking Cleveland at the +3 (-100) and/or the +2.5 (+100) values," the oddsmaker tells Covers. "The public has backed Detroit through every line variation."


Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos - Open: 51.5, Move: 53

The seemingly unstoppable Broncos opened as historic favorites versus the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars. Most shops opened with Denver -27.5, but bettors are attracted to the total for this late-afternoon affair with both sharp and public bettors hitting the Over.

"Both sharp and public alike are flocking to the Jags at Denver total. Sharps started backing the number early at the over 51.5 and 52 values. The public is pouring in on the over at any number. This will be an entirely one sided total affair."


New Orleans Saints at New England Patriots - Open: -3, Move: -2

The Saints face a tough road test in New England in this late afternoon matchup. The Pats have been very unpopular for a few weeks now and this week is no different with the public flocking towards the Saints.

"Injuries and lackluster wins have the public shying away from the Pats and into the arms of an undefeated Saints squad," says BetDSI. "Sharp money is on the Saints at the +3 (-115) values. There was also some sharp money movement on the first half of this tilt at New Orleans +1."

[Udog]

NFL

Sunday, October 13

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Tale of the Tape: Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys
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One of professional football's most spirited rivalries resumes Sunday night when the Washington Redskins visit the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the teams owning a collective 3-6 record, a win Sunday would propel one of them into first place in the struggling NFC East. Dallas is coming off a wild 51-48 loss to Denver, while the Redskins enjoyed a bye last week.

Here's the breakdown in our betting tale of the tape:

Offense

The Redskins have boasted a solid offense despite quarterback Robert Griffin III's early-season struggles. Washington ranks eighth in the NFL in passing yards per game at 284.8, with No. 1 receiver Pierre Garcon racking up 44 targets through the first four games. The running game has yet to get untracked, with the Alfred Morris-led rush attack sitting 17th in yards per game (106). Griffin, who ran for 815 yards as a rookie, has just 72 so far this season.

While no doubt inflated by last week's shootout loss to the Broncos, the Dallas pass attack has been equally as impressive. The Cowboys rank one spot ahead of the Redskins at 285 yards per game, while their 13 passing touchdowns tie them with San Diego for second-most in the league. Like the rival Redskins, Dallas has struggled to move the ball on the ground; the Cowboys are 20th in yards per game and have just two rushing scores through five games.

Edge: Washington


Defense

The Redskins can only hope the week off provided some much-needed rest and reflection time for a defense that is allowing a league-worst 440.5 yards per contest. As bad as the pass defense has been - ranked 28th in the NFL at 298.3 yards allowed per game - the rush defense has been even worse. No team in the league has surrendered more yards per game than the Redskins (142.3), while their 4.7 yards-per-carry against is 26th.

The loss to Denver also blew up the Cowboys' defensive stats, though they weren't all that impressive to begin with. The Cowboys own the second-worst pass defense in football, surrendering 326.4 yards per game and 14 touchdowns - tied with the New York Giants for the most in the league. The one area in which Dallas owns a sizable advantage is in run defense; the Cowboys are allowing the fourth-fewest yards per game in the NFL at 82.8.

Edge: Dallas


Special Teams

Washington's return game is lacking through the opening six weeks. The Redskins are averaging just 20.3 yards per kickoff return - the sixth-lowest total in the league - with a longest return of just 28 yards. The punt-return game has been equally deficient, with Washington ranked 27th at 5.6 yards per attempt. Kicker John Potter is 3-for-4 on field-goal attempts but will be relegated to the backup role with the return of Kai Forbath, who hasn't played since Week 1.

The Cowboys have been strong on their returns so far in 2013. They're averaging 27 yards per kickoff return and 11.9 yards per punt return - both ranking them sixth in the league. Veteran placekicker Dan Bailey has been solid to date, connecting on nine of 11 field-goal attempts while making all 15 of his extra-point kicks. He hit from 43 and 48 yards out in last week's narrow loss to Denver.

Edge: Dallas


Notable Quotables

"Make no mistake about it: Tony is excellent. And he gives us our best chance of winning a Super Bowl. A lot of people say, 'Well, Jerry, shame on you for making that our very best chance.' I like trying to get there the way we're trying to get there better than the alternative." - Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on quarterback Tony Romo

"I'd like to get (Roy) Helu out there more. It's always a hard thing when you've got two guys you believe in and with the success (Alfred Morris) had last year and how much we do believe in Alf, so we don't like to just keep rotating those guys all the time." Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan on his running back situation


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[Udog]

NFL

Monday, October 14

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Monday Night Football betting: Colts at Chargers
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Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers (+1, 50)

Andrew Luck has had his way with West Coast teams this season and he hopes to continue that trend when the Indianapolis Colts visit the San Diego Chargers on Monday night. The Colts have surged to the top of the AFC South on the heels of a three-game winning streak, which includes victories over NFC powers San Francisco and Seattle. Luck added to his growing reputation last week with his ninth comeback win in the fourth quarter or overtime in 21 career games.

San Diego changed head coaches in the offseason, but the inconsistency that has been a hallmark of the franchise for the past decade continues to permeate the team. One week after ripping off 20 unanswered points to knock off the Dallas Cowboys, the Chargers fell into an early 17-point hole in a turnover-riddled defeat at Oakland. "We've shown the good and we've shown the bad," Chargers coach Mike McCoy said. "We have to eliminate all the bad and get back to where we were at the Dallas game."

TV: 8:40 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE: This opened as a pick and now sits Colts -1. The total opened 49.5 and is now 50.

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the high-60s with clear and sunny skies.

ABOUT THE COLTS (4-1): Indianapolis absorbed another blow when running back Ahmad Bradshaw was placed on injured reserve, making the acquisition of Trent Richardson from Cleveland that much more noteworthy. The Colts rank fourth in rushing at 142 yards per game, but Richardson has yet to make the expected impact with 151 yards on 51 carries in his three games with Indy. Luck's numbers are hardly off the charts - he averages under 230 yards per game - but he has an emerging target to go along with Reggie Wayne in second-year wideout T.Y. Hilton, who had a career-high 140 yards and two touchdowns last week.

ABOUT THE CHARGERS (2-3): Philip Rivers has appeared to regain his mojo after a two consecutive turnover-laden campaigns, but his third 400-yard game of the season was negated by three interceptions in the loss to Oakland. An already-suspect running game absorbed another blow when oft-injured Ryan Mathews suffered a concussion last week, putting the onus on Danny Woodhead and Ronnie Brown to carry the ground attack. The Chargers have lost both starting receivers Danario Alexander and Malcom Floyd to season-ending injuries, but Vincent Brown and rookie Keenan Allen each went over 100 yards last week.

TRENDS:

* Colts are 1-6 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Under is 4-1-1 in the last six meetings.
* Colts are 8-1 ATS in their last nine Monday games.
* Chargers are 0-6 ATS in their last six games in October.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Wayne needs four catches to become the ninth receiver in league history with 1,000 receptions.

2. San Diego's Antonio Gates is second among tight ends with 438 yards receiving.

3. Colts coach Chuck Pagano will be facing his younger brother in Chargers defensive coordinator John Pagano.


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