The Bum's NFL December's POD'S-Trends-Stats !

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Sunday, December 8

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Sunday's NFL Week 14 betting cheat sheet: Early action
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Minnesota Vikings at Baltimore Ravens (-7, 41.5)

The Ravens are looking for their first three-game winning streak of the campaign and will also hope to semi-corral Vikings star Adrian Peterson, who rushed for a season-best 211 yards in last week’s overtime win over the Chicago Bears.

Matt Cassel is expected to be the starting quarterback for the Vikings after throwing for 243 yards in relief of Christian Ponder, who left the game against the Bears after suffering a concussion. While Minnesota has struggled on the road, the Ravens have been strong at home with a 5-1 mark while allowing just 12.3 points per game. Baltimore is tied with the Miami Dolphins for the final AFC spot but holds the tiebreaker by virtue of its win over the Dolphins on Oct. 6.

LINE: The Ravens opened -7.5 and are now -7. The total is down to 41.5 from the opening 43.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-30s with freezing rain and/or snow in the forecast.
POWER RANKINGS: Minnesota (+5.0) + Baltimore (0.0) + home field (-3.0) = Ravens -8.0

TRENDS:

* Vikings are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Ravens are 6-2 ATS in their last eight home games.
* Under is 7-1 in Ravens last 8 home games.


Kansas City Chiefs at Washington Redskins (+3, 43.5)

The Kansas City Chiefs' dream season has come crashing back to reality with three straight losses, but they can move a step closer to clinching a playoff spot with a victory at Washington on Sunday. Kansas City has found itself unable to keep pace in shootouts the past three weeks, losing to Denver twice with a heartbreaking defeat to San Diego sandwiched between.

Three of Washington's four consecutive losses have come by eight points or fewer, and the league's best ground game has been impressive of late. Quarterback Robert Griffin III turned in one of his best efforts of the season last week, completing 24-of-32 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown and rushing for a season-high 88 yards on 12 carries.

LINE: The Chiefs opened as 3-point road faves. The total is down one point from the opening 44.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-30s with freezing rain and/or snow in the forecast.
POWER RANKINGS: Kansas City (-1.5) + Washington (+6.5) - home field (-3.0) = Chiefs -2.

TRENDS:

* Chiefs are 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Redskins are 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall.
* Under is 7-1-1 in Chiefs last nine road games.


Buffalo Bills at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5, 42)

Quarterback EJ Manuel missed more than a month for the Bills, but he has come back to throw for four touchdown passes and one interception in his last three starts. Buffalo saw its slim playoff chances evaporate in the 34-31 overtime loss to Atlanta last week, a setback that led team president Russ Brandon to express concern over whether playing in Toronto wrecks a home-field edge for the Bills.

Tampa Bay's Mike Glennon, a third-round draft pick, had guided the Buccaneers to consecutive straight victories before running into Carolina's stone-wall defense last week. Glennon was the league's Offensive Rookie of the Month in November, but failed to throw a TD pass for the first time in the 27-6 loss to the Panthers.

LINE: The Bucs opened -2.5. The total is down a half-point from the opening 42.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with wind blowing toward the N end zone at 6 mph.
POWER RANKINGS: Buffalo (+4.5) - Tampa Bay (+4.5) + home field (-3.0) = Buccaneers -3.0

TRENDS:

* Bills are 1-6 ATS in their last seven road games.
* Buccaneers are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in Bills last five road games.


Miami Dolphins at Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5, 40.5)

After finding the end zone just once in his first 10 games, Mike Wallace scored in his second straight contest as Miami posted a 23-3 triumph over the New York Jets last week. The Dolphins are tied for sixth place in the AFC with Baltimore, which handed the Steelers just their third loss in eight games with a 22-20 decision on Thanksgiving.

Ben Roethlisberger has thrown eight touchdown passes in his last three games - and his next one will snap a tie with Hall-of-Famer Terry Bradshaw (212) for the most in franchise history. Wallace's departure opened doors for Antonio Brown, who has reeled in an NFL-best 85 receptions and 1,103 yards - as well as six touchdowns.

LINE: The Steelers opened -3 and are now -3.5. The total opened at 41.5 and is down one point.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-20s with a 66 percent chance of snow.
POWER RANKINGS: Miami (+2.0) + Pittsburgh (0.0) + home field (-3.0) = Steelers -5.0

TRENDS:

* Dolphins are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Steelers are 4-0 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Under is 9-2 in Steelers last 11 vs. AFC.


Detroit Lions at Philadelphia Eagles (-2.5, 52)

Detroit, which leads Chicago by one game in the NFC North, continues to ride its talented three-headed offensive attack. Matthew Stafford has 627 passing yards and six touchdowns in the last two games, Reggie Bush racked up 182 total yards and a touchdown against the Packers and Calvin Johnson has 962 receiving yards in his last six games - the best six-game run by any receiver in NFL history.

Philadelphia, playing its third straight home game, enters this weekend tied with Dallas atop the NFC East. While the Eagles have won four straight games, they have not scored a single point in the fourth quarter in any of those contests and their margin of victory has gotten increasingly less (29, 14, eight, three).

LINE: Philly opened -2.5. The total is down 2.5-point from the opening 54.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-20s with a 66 percent chance of snow.
POWER RANKINGS: Detroit (-4.0) - Philadelphia (-2.5) + home field (-3.0) = Eagles -1.5

TRENDS:

* Under is 5-0 in Eagles last five vs. NFC.
* Lions are 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a ATS win.
* Eagles are 0-6-1 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a winning road record.


Indianapolis Colts at Cincinnati Bengals (-6.5, 43)

Indianapolis is enjoying a three-game lead in the AFC South but is showing some cracks with losses in two of the last four contests. Luck is completing just 57.8 percent of his passes while throwing for two touchdowns and five interceptions in that span. Luck is without favorite target Reggie Wayne and will be dealing with a Cincinnati pass rush that has recorded 36 sacks - including 18 in the last five games - and is a perfect 5-0 at home.

The Cincinnati Bengals are one of the most dominant defensive teams in the NFL but are being overlooked among the contenders in the AFC. Cincinnati is two games up on the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North and would like to have the division sewn up before closing the regular season against the Ravens on Dec. 29.

LINE: The Bengals opened -5 and are now -6.5. The total opened at 44 and is down to 43.
WEATHER: Freezing rain and/or snow is in the forecast.
POWER RANKINGS: Indianapolis (-2.0) + Cincinnati (-3.5) + home field (-3.0) = Bengals -4.5

TRENDS:

* Favorite is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Colts are 4-0 ATS in their last four vs. AFC.
* Under is 11-3-1 in Bengals last 15 vs. AFC.


Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots (-10.5, 47)

Cleveland has dropped three straight and six of seven to fall out of the wild-card race and is struggling on defense along with the quarterback issues. The Browns are surrendering an average of 30.8 points in their last six losses despite ranking fourth in the NFL in total defense.

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots offense are making second-half comebacks a staple of their weekly plan. Brady and company would prefer to jump out early and will attempt to avoid climbing out of a big hole when they host the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.

LINE: The Pats opened -11 and are now -10.5. The total is up one point from the opening 46.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-30s with partly cloudy skies.
POWER RANKINGS: Cleveland (+6.0) + New England (-6.0) + home field (-3.0) = Patriots -15.0

TRENDS:

* Browns are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings.
* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.
* Patriots are 5-0 ATS in their last five home games.


Oakland Raiders at New York Jets (-3, 40)

Oakland mathematically is still alive for the playoff spot but realistically is playing out the string. The Raiders have lost four of their last five contests, including a 31-24 defeat against Dallas on Nov. 28 in which it squandered a 14-point lead and was outscored 17-3 in the second half.

Despite their current woes, the New York Jets still are in the race for a wild-card spot in the AFC. They can strengthen their chances with a victory over the visiting Oakland Raiders on Sunday. New York has received disappointing performances from rookie quarterback Geno Smith while losing three straight games since its bye week but still finds itself only one game behind Baltimore and Miami for the second wild card.

LINE: The Jets opened -2.5 and are now -3. The total is down a half-point to 40.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-30s with a 47 percent chance of rain and/or snow.
POWER RANKINGS: Oakland (+5.5) - New York (+5.5) + home field (-3.0) = Jets -3.0

TRENDS:

* Home team is 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Raiders are 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a S.U. loss.
* Over is 4-0-1 in Raiders last five games overall.


Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers (-3.5, 44)

Not much has gone right for Atlanta, especially on the defensive side of the ball, where it ranks 20th against the pass and 30th against the run. Matt Ryan and the passing game have put up decent numbers, but mostly out of necessity. The Falcons rank 29th in the league in rushing (81.1 yards per game) and have played from behind most of the season.

The Green Bay Packers' playoff hopes are on life support and might not survive another week without Aaron Rodgers as they prepare for Sunday's visit by the Atlanta Falcons. Green Bay's quarterback will sit out a fifth consecutive game due to a broken collarbone and the Packers are winless since he was injured Nov. 4, falling two games behind NFC North leader Detroit in the win column.

LINE: The Pack opened -3.5. The total has dropped from the opening 46.
WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for an 84 percent chance of snow with temperatures in the mid-teens.
POWER RANKINGS: Atlanta (+5.0) - Green Bay (+7.0) + home field (-3.0) = Packers -1.0

TRENDS:

* Road team is 6-1 ATS in their last seven meetings.
* Falcons are 0-4 ATS in their last four games following a S.U. win.
* Packers are 0-5 ATS in their last five vs. NFC.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Sunday, December 8

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Sunday's NFL Week 14 betting cheat sheet: Late action
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Tennessee Titans at Denver Broncos (-12, 48.5)

Tennessee, which is playing its third straight road game, had its AFC South title hopes all but dashed in last week's 22-14 loss at Indianapolis and has little margin for error in the clustered playoff race. The Titans will need a big game out of running back Chris Johnson - who has only one 100-yard game this season - to keep the ball out of the hands of Manning. The Titans are desperate for a victory, trailing Baltimore and Miami by one game for the AFC's sixth seed.

The Denver Broncos have a chance to celebrate head coach John Fox's return to the sideline by clinching a playoff berth. Peyton Manning carved up the Chiefs for 403 yards and five touchdown passes - four to Eric Decker - in last week's come-from-behind victory, pushing his season totals to 41 scoring passes against only nine interceptions.

LINE: The Broncos opened -13 and are now -12. The total opened 50.5 and is now 48.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-teens with a 44 percent chance of snow.
POWER RANKINGS: Tennessee (+2.5) - Denver (-7.5) + home field (-3.0) = Denver -13.0

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.
* Titans are 0-4 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Broncos are 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall.


St. Louis Rams at Arizona Cardinals (-6, 41.5)

St. Louis has proved to be up to the challenge against top competition, knocking off Indianapolis and Chicago in back-to-back games before falling 23-13 at San Francisco last week. Quarterback Kellen Clemens is completing only 51.7 percent of his passes since taking over for the injured Sam Bradford and could be without center Scott Wells (broken ankle) and left tackle Jake Long (head).

The Cardinals will look to continue their wild-card push at the expense of the Rams when they host their division foe on Sunday. Arizona is a game behind the San Francisco 49ers for the No. 6 spot in the NFC. Arizona WR Larry Fitzgerald caught two TD passes in the first meeting and has at least one TD reception in three straight games.

LINE: The Cards opened -6.5 and are now -6. The total has held at 41.5.
WEATHER: N/A
POWER RANKINGS: St. Louis (+3.0) - Arizona (-2.0) + home field (-3.0) = Arizona -8.0

TRENDS:

* Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Arizona.
* Underdog is 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Rams are 2-6 ATS in their last eight vs. NFC.


Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers (-2.5, 41.5)

The Seattle Seahawks are trying to wrap up the No. 1 overall seed in the NFC and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. They are three games up on the 49ers in the division with four games left and is coming off its most impressive performance yet in the 34-7 triumph over the Saints.

San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick is not having such an easy go of it in his second year as a starter and leads a passing attack that ranks 31st in the league with an average of 180.3 yards. Kaepernick is starting to come around in the last two weeks, however, with a total of 510 yards and four touchdowns in back-to-back wins.

LINE: The Niners opened -2.5. The total is currently 41.5.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-40s.
POWER RANKINGS: Seattle (-8.0) - San Francisco (-6.5) + home field (-3.0) = 49ers -1.5

TRENDS:

* Favorite is 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings.
* Home team is 7-2 ATS in their last nine meetings.
* Under is 4-0 in 49ers last four games overall.


New York Giants at San Diego Chargers (-3.5, 47)

Justin Tuck collected a career-best four sacks versus the Redskins to earn NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Tuck's increased workload came in the absence of fellow defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul, who is in line to miss his second straight game with a shoulder injury. New York has experienced production from its 26th-ranked running game as Andre Brown scored twice last week and has reeled in at least three receptions in each of the last three contests.

The Chargers have dropped four of their last five and committed three turnovers in last week's 17-10 setback to Cincinnati to fall one game behind Baltimore for the coveted sixth seed in the AFC. While San Diego veteran TE Antonio Gates often receives the fanfare, backup Ladarius Green has seen his snaps increase and scored in consecutive games.

LINE: The Chargers opened -3 and are now -3.5. The total has held at 47.
WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid-50s.
POWER RANKINGS: New York (+1.0) + San Diego (+1.0) + home field (-3.0) = Chargers -3.0

TRENDS:

* Giants are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall.
* Chargers are 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.
* Under is 13-3 in Giants last 16 road games.


Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints (-3, 46)

The Panthers surged into a tie for the division lead on the heels of an eight-game winning streak in which they have allowed only one opponent to score 20 points. Cam Newton has directed Carolina to four road victories during the eight-game run and will try to hand New Orleans it first home loss.

New Orleans' high-powered offense was limited to 188 total yards in the 34-7 drubbing in Seattle - the lowest total since Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees arrived in New Orleans. Brees was held to 147 yards passing last week but has eclipsed 300 yards in each of the six home games this season.

LINE: The Saints opened -4 and are now -3. The total is up a half-point from the opening 45.5.
WEATHER: N/A
POWER RANKINGS: Carolina (-5.5) - New Orleans (-6.0) + home field (-3.0) = Saints -3.5

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-0 in the last four meetings.
* Panthers are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 meetings in New Orleans.
* Under is 7-1 in Saints last eight vs. NFC.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL injury report: Four injuries undervalued by oddsmakers

Dennis Pitta, TE, Baltimore Ravens (probable, hip)

Pitta, who has missed the entire season due to hip surgery, is a great route runner who often gets separation and runs the ball well. He had huge success in the red zone with seven of his nine touchdowns coming from inside the 20-yard line last year. He's one of Joe Flacco’s favorite targets and his return should give the Ravens a boost in the red zone Sunday.

Baltimore is a 7-point favorite against Minnesota. The total is 42.5.


Mike Brisiel, G, Oakland Raiders, (questionable, knee)

The Raiders had six offensive starters out of practice this week, including their starting right guard. Brisiel went down with a knee injury on Thanksgiving and is a major contributor to the run game. Running back Darren McFadden is out and third-stringer Jeremy Stewart is questionable, leaving a dinged up Rashad Jennings to shoulder the load on the ground - possibly without one of his best blockers.

Oakland is a 2.5-point road underdog against the Jets. The total is 40.


Delanie Walker, TE, Tennessee Titans (questionable, concussion)

With Walker questionable and TE Craig Stevens out of action, the Titans are left with only one healthy tight end. In an offense that relies heavily on the position for blocking and receiving, Tennessee may be forced to improvise. Walker is the Titans' second-leading receiver with 454 yards and leads the teams in touchdown catches with five.

Tennessee is a 12.5-point road underdog against Denver. The total is 48.5


Greg Toler, CB, Indianapolis Colts (out, groin)

The Colts’ secondary has been struggling since the bye week, allowing 790 passing yards and six TDs in three weeks – all with Toler on the sidelines. They have gone weeks without an interception and will likely continue to give up huge receiving yards with Toler out against a Bengals team that likes to attack downfield.

The Colts are 6.5-point underdogs against Cincinnati. The total is 43.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL weather report: Sunday's forecasts

Minnesota Vikings at Baltimore Ravens (-7, 41.5)
Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the low-30s with frozen rain and/or snow. Wind will blow across the field at 5 mph.

Kansas City Chiefs at Washington Redskins (+3, 43.5)
Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the low-30s with frozen rain and/or snow. Wind will blow across the field at 5 mph.

Buffalo Bills at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5, 42)
Temperatures will be in the high-70s with wind blowing toward the N end zone at 6 mph.

Miami Dolphins at Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5, 40.5)
Temperatures will be in the mid-20s with wind blowing across the field at 10 mph. There is a 66 percent chance of snow.

Detroit Lions at Philadelphia Eagles (-2.5, 52)
Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the low-30s with a 76 percent chance of snow. Wind will blow across the field at 5 mph.

Indianapolis Colts at Cincinnati Bengals (-6.5, 43)
Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the mid-20s with snow and/or freezing rain. Wind will blow across the field at 6 mph.

Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots (-10, 47)
Temperatures will be in the low-30s under partly cloudy skies.

Oakland Raiders at New York Jets (-3, 40)
Temperatures will be in the low-30s with a 47 percent chance of snow.

Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers (-3.5, 44)
Forecasts are calling for an 84 percent chance of snow. Temperatures will be in the mid-teens.

Tennessee Titans at Denver Broncos (-12, 48.5)
Temperatures will be in the mid-teens with a 44 percent chance of snow. Wind will blow toward the S endzone at 4 mph.

Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers (-2.5, 41.5)
Temperatures will be in the mid-40s with wind blowing across the field at 5 mph.

New York Giants at San Diego Chargers (-3.5, 47)
Temperatures will be in the low-50s with calm conditions.

[StarDust Bum]

Where the action is: Sunday's NFL line moves

As the clock ticks on the NFL regular season, competition on the field gets more heated as teams fight for their postseason-lives.

We talk to oddsmakers about the action coming in on some of Sunday's matchups and where the lines could close come kickoff:

Kansas City Chiefs at Washington Redskins - Open: -3

The wheels have come off for one of the better stories of the early part of the season. The Chiefs started out like gangbusters, sprinting out of the gate to a 9-0 SU (6-3 ATS) record. They've pulled a 180 since their bye week, however, going 0-3 SU and ATS. Early money was on the Chiefs, with a little action coming back on the home team recently.

"I don’t think the 3 will break, but some are hanging juiced -2.5’s," says Aron Black of Bet365. "It goes against the moves later in the week, as we are loaded up on Kansas City -3 by a wide margin. As it stands, this is our most lopsided game for action on one team."


Indianapolis Colts at Cincinnati Bengals - Open: -5, Move: -6.5

The Bengals, owners of one of the league's fiercest defenses, have won and covered in back-to-back outings and bettors lined up to get them at the opening number. Action came back on the Colts, but bettors are treading lightly with some key injuries for the road team.

"Early action was all about Cincy, but with the move to 6.5 we are seeing Indy action," Black says. "The injury reports haven’t been too kind to the Colts, leading to the moves, and there are still questionables for the Colts along with those expected to miss. Action overall now sees this as the most balanced game for us so far, but if the line keeps going to Cincy, the action from the public will too."


Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers - Open: -2.5

One of Sunday's marquee matchups sees these NFC West powerhouses square off in the Bay. The majority of books opened this game with the home team as 2.5-point faves but as kickoff approaches more of the action could come in on the division leaders.

"The line has been pretty steady all week, but has moved slightly towards Seattle the last day or so," Black tells Covers. "The injury report lists numerous questionables for San Fran - most of whom should play - but if they get a few that are out, then this line will obviously carry on towards to the Seahawks. Seattle is about 2-to-1 ATS, but is 3-to-1 on SU plays."

[StarDust Bum]

Capping the calendar: December's best/worst NFL bets

And down the stretch they come.

With December upon us, the 2013 NFL season heads in to the final quarter of the season and with it our final take on monthly teams trends.

Please note that all trends are ATS (Against The Spread) unless noted otherwise. Enjoy…

HOME TEAMS

• Good: Whether Seattle had a good team or a not so good team, they always are tough to beat at home. This is true in December as well at 31-15 ATS. Besides the big Monday night battle with New Orleans, their final two games of the season are at Century Link Field against Arizona and St. Louis.

• Keep an eye on (Good): Aaron Rodgers is expected to return and Green Bay head coach Mike McCarthy has stated his team needs a 4-0 finish to have a shot at the playoffs. At home this month, the Packers are 30-16 ATS and Atlanta along with Pittsburgh will visit, giving them two shots at covers.

• Keep an eye on (Bad): Large group to keep an eye on here. St. Louis is 16-26 ATS and will have NFC South teams New Orleans and Tampa Bay in weeks 15-16.

The New York Jets slate of Miami, Oakland and Cleveland is not necessarily foreboding, but the offense is sure to have coal left in the stocking of the quarterback position. Gang Green is 16-30 ATS in New Jersey.

New Orleans is 18-32 ATS at home and at least part of this in recent years is they have wrapped up the division late in the season and are playing backups. Before Drew Brees and Sean Payton, they just stunk.

Oakland has been a play against home team no matter the month for years and facing Kansas City and Denver is not likely to improve their chances.


AWAY TEAMS

• Good: The hottest team in the NFL, Carolina, has been road warriors for years and is a sensational 24-12 ATS in the final month of the year. The Panthers have a HUGE game at New Orleans on Dec. 8 and end the season at hapless Atlanta.

• Bad: This flies under the radar unless you are sharp handicapper or a Bears fan. Chicago is Grinch-like 11-32 ATS in road games, stealing money from its followers and makes trips to Cleveland and Philadelphia in consecutive weeks. Wonder what those in Whoville will be thinking?

Before Jim Harbaugh arrived, San Francisco was ripe play against material late in the season, accounting for their 16-32 ATS figure. They will go to Tampa Bay and Arizona to improve that number.

• Keep an eye on (Bad): Like cold weather in the Midwest and East this time of year, Dallas struggling on the road fits the season. The Cowboys are 19-32 ATS away and will be in the Windy City for a Monday night affair and at the hated Redskins just before Christmas, trying to win a division title.


FAVORITES

• Bad: The weather might be nice in South Florida, but the Miami Dolphins are scarier than room full of Santa Clauses when doling out points. The Fins are a miserable 20-41 ATS as favs. Two contests to possibly be careful of the Dolphins are Week 16 at Buffalo and the season finale versus the Jets.

• Keep an eye on (Good): Green Bay is a fantastic 44-23 in December and if Rodgers stays healthy, they will be favored in their two home games. But with how unsightly the defense has become, little chance they will be a favorite at Dallas or Chicago.

• Keep an eye on (Bad): We won’t know for sure, but Dallas could be favored as many as three times this month and conceivably four if the public likes them against the Bears. At 18-33 ATS, it might be wise to find another team to consider for this role. Note: Tony Romo is 4-14 ATS as a favorite during December in his NFL career.

The New York Jets will be handing out points to Oakland and Cleveland, but with their quarterback situation and a 14-26 ATS mark, this might be harder to swallow than Aunt Margaret’s fruitcake.


UNDERDOGS

• Good: With Carolina being such a good wager on the road, naturally they would be a Play On underdog. However, with this year’s team, fewer opportunities will be available and just the Dec. 8th matchup at New Orleans should place them in this role.

Besides Carolina, Seattle also fits the bill and they are 39-19 ATS on the receiving end of digits and they might see only one or two points at San Francisco on the second Sunday of the month.

• Bad: With how bad the Chicago Bears defense is in 2013, they should be a frequent underdog in December and could well add onto an abysmal 16-34 ATS mark.

• Keep an eye on (Good): New England is 21-11 ATS in the underdog role and only a trip Baltimore could place them in that position this month.

The New York Giants are notorious closers and are a sparkling 31-18 ATS as a pooch. This year’s team lacks the same qualities of more recent vintage and they might be hard-pressed to match previous levels at San Diego, vs. Seattle and at Detroit in the middle games of the month.

• Keep an eye on (Bad): St. Louis in November showed signs of improvement, but with three division road games and hosting New Orleans, hard to imagine they will improve as underdogs at 19-33 ATS.


DIVISION

• Good: No team in any month can match Carolina’s 23-8 ATS record versus division opponents and they will have four shots against their rivals to close 2013.

New England is also very good at 28-14 ATS, being the dominant team for more than a decade in the AFC East. The Patriots will be at Miami on the 15th and host Buffalo in the final game of the season.

• Keep an eye on (Bad): Starting the month as part of a large group of 5-6 teams with a chance to be a wild card club, Miami will play in division four times and with how the Jets and Buffalo are playing, the Dolphins could make a move. They will have to overcome the ghosts of December past with a 16-31 ATS mark.

[StarDust Bum]

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Game 131-132: Kansas City at Washington (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 135.113; Washington 127.785
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 6 1/2; 41
Vegas Line: Kansas City by 3; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-3); Under

Game 133-134: Minnesota at Baltimore (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 124.379; Baltimore 137.418
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 13; 46
Vegas Line: Baltimore by 6 1/2; 43
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (-6 1/2); Over

Game 135-136: Cleveland at New England (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 127.758; New England 135.820
Dunkel Line: New England by 8; 42
Vegas Line: New England by 10 1/2; 45
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+10 1/2); Under

Game 137-138: Oakland at NY Jets (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 125.715; NY Jets 123.904
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 2; 46
Vegas Line: NY Jets by 3; 40 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (+3); Over

Game 139-140: Indianapolis at Cincinnati (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 126.708; Cincinnati 140.589
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 14; 40
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 5 1/2; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-5 1/2); Under

Game 141-142: Carolina at New Orleans (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 139.360; New Orleans 144.250
Dunkel Line: New Orleans by 5; 52
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 3; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New Orleans (-3); Over

Game 143-144: Detroit at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 134.522; Philadelphia 134.611
Dunkel Line: Even; 47
Vegas Line: Philadelphia by 3; 54
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+3); Under

Game 145-146: Miami at Pittsburgh (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 130.601; Pittsburgh 138.188
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 7 1/2; 37
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 3; 41
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-3); Under

Game 147-148: Buffalo at Tampa Bay (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 129.252; Tampa Bay 129.314
Dunkel Line: Even; 47
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay by 3; 43
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (+3); Over

Game 149-150: Tennessee at Denver (4:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee 127.635; Denver 137.520
Dunkel Line: Denver by 10; 47
Vegas Line: Denver by 13; 50
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (+13); Under

Game 151-152: St. Louis at Arizona (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 131.836; Arizona 138.879
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 9; 46
Vegas Line: Arizona by 6; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-6); Over

Game 153-154: NY Giants at San Diego (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 131.716; San Diego 132.549
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1; 53
Vegas Line: San Diego by 3 1/2; 48
Dunkel Pick: NY Giants (+3 1/2); Over

Game 155-156: Seattle at San Francisco (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 137.792; San Francisco 144.849
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 7; 37
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 2 1/2; 41
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (+2 1/2); Under

Game 157-158: Atlanta at Green Bay (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 126.179; Green Bay 125.249
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1; 36
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A


MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

Game 159-160: Dallas at Chicago (8:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 131.957; Chicago 129.960
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 2; 54
Vegas Line: Chicago by 1; 49 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+1); Over

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday, December 8

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KANSAS CITY (9 - 3) at WASHINGTON (3 - 9) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) as an underdog this season.
WASHINGTON is 71-97 ATS (-35.7 Units) in home games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 71-97 ATS (-35.7 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 71-97 ATS (-35.7 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.

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

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MINNESOTA (3 - 8 - 1) at BALTIMORE (6 - 6) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 25-11 ATS (+12.9 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
BALTIMORE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in home games against NFC North division opponents since 1992.

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

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CLEVELAND (4 - 8) at NEW ENGLAND (9 - 3) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 157-118 ATS (+27.2 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 50-30 ATS (+17.0 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

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

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OAKLAND (4 - 8) at NY JETS (5 - 7) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 37-69 ATS (-38.9 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
OAKLAND is 27-48 ATS (-25.8 Units) in December games since 1992.
OAKLAND is 33-68 ATS (-41.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
OAKLAND is 18-37 ATS (-22.7 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.
OAKLAND is 26-46 ATS (-24.6 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
NY JETS are 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) off a division game over the last 2 seasons.
NY JETS are 15-30 ATS (-18.0 Units) in home games in December games since 1992.

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

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INDIANAPOLIS (8 - 4) at CINCINNATI (8 - 4) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANAPOLIS is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANAPOLIS is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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CAROLINA (9 - 3) at NEW ORLEANS (9 - 3) - 12/8/2013, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 20-8 ATS (+11.2 Units) in dome games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) in home games in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
CAROLINA is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points since 1992.
CAROLINA is 58-37 ATS (+17.3 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
CAROLINA is 22-11 ATS (+9.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
CAROLINA is 50-25 ATS (+22.5 Units) in December games since 1992.
CAROLINA is 44-26 ATS (+15.4 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 25-46 ATS (-25.6 Units) in home games versus division opponents since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 14-28 ATS (-16.8 Units) in home games in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

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

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DETROIT (7 - 5) at PHILADELPHIA (7 - 5) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) in all games where the total is greater than or equal to 49.5 since 1992.
DETROIT is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 1-12 ATS (-12.2 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 1-12 ATS (-12.2 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 1-12 ATS (-12.2 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

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

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MIAMI (6 - 6) at PITTSBURGH (5 - 7) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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BUFFALO (4 - 8) at TAMPA BAY (3 - 9) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BUFFALO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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TENNESSEE (5 - 7) at DENVER (10 - 2) - 12/8/2013, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
DENVER is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

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

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ST LOUIS (5 - 7) at ARIZONA (7 - 5) - 12/8/2013, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 36-55 ATS (-24.5 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 96-132 ATS (-49.2 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 103-135 ATS (-45.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 20-37 ATS (-20.7 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 3-2 against the spread versus ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
ST LOUIS is 3-2 straight up against ARIZONA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NY GIANTS (5 - 7) at SAN DIEGO (5 - 7) - 12/8/2013, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY GIANTS are 49-28 ATS (+18.2 Units) in road games off a division game since 1992.
NY GIANTS are 49-31 ATS (+14.9 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.

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

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SEATTLE (11 - 1) at SAN FRANCISCO (8 - 4) - 12/8/2013, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 32-16 ATS (+14.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 32-16 ATS (+14.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) as a favorite this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 23-9 ATS (+13.1 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 21-9 ATS (+11.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 16-5 ATS (+10.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) 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
SEATTLE is 4-1 against the spread versus SAN FRANCISCO over the last 3 seasons
SAN FRANCISCO is 3-2 straight up against SEATTLE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ATLANTA (3 - 9) at GREEN BAY (5 - 6 - 1) - 12/8/2013, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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Monday, December 9

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DALLAS (7 - 5) at CHICAGO (6 - 6) - 12/9/2013, 8:40 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 31-51 ATS (-25.1 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
CHICAGO is 2-11 ATS (-10.1 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games this season.
CHICAGO is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
CHICAGO is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) against conference opponents this season.
CHICAGO is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in December games over the last 3 seasons.

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

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday, December 8

Kansas City at Washington, 1:00 ET
Kansas City: 12-2 ATS after allowing 25 points or more in 3 straight games
Washington: 1-8 ATS as an underdog

Minnesota at Baltimore, 1:00 ET
Minnesota: 4-18 ATS in road games after a win by 3 or less points
Baltimore: 7-0 ATS in home games against NFC North division opponents

Cleveland at New England, 1:00 ET
Cleveland: 19-34 ATS after failing to cover the spread in 4 or 5 out of their last 6
New England: 33-18 ATS after allowing 30 points or more last game

Oakland at NY Jets, 1:00 ET
Oakland: 7-19 ATS in road games after covering the spread in 4 or 5 out of their last 6
NY Jets: 17-4 ATS in home games off a home loss

Indianapolis at Cincinnati, 1:00 ET
Indianapolis: 9-1 ATS in December games
Cincinnati: 11-3 UNDER after 1 or more consecutive wins against the spread

Carolina at New Orleans, 8:30 ET
Carolina: 7-0 ATS as a road underdog of 7 points or less
New Orleans: 25-46 ATS in home games versus division opponents

Detroit at Philadelphia, 1:00 ET
Detroit: Detroit 15-2 OVER after a win by 21 or more points
Philadelphia: 5-15 ATS after playing a game at home

Miami at Pittsburgh, 1:00 ET
Miami: 31-49 ATS after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better
Pittsburgh: 13-3 ATS in home games after covering the spread in 4 out of their last 5

Buffalo at Tampa Bay, 1:00 ET
Buffalo: 14-4 ATS in road games after failing to cover the spread in 4 out of their last 5
Tampa Bay: 3-13 ATS off 1 or more consecutive unders

Tennessee at Denver, 4:05 ET
Tennessee: 8-1 OVER after scoring 14 points or less last game
Denver: 15-4 ATS in games played on a grass field

St Louis at Arizona, 4:25 ET
St Louis: 9-22 ATS as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7
Arizona: 25-12 ATS in home games after a loss by 6 or less points

NY Giants at San Diego, 4:25 ET
NY Giants: 26-12 ATS in road games after having won 3 out of their last 4
San Diego: 23-9 UNDER as a home favorite of 3 points or less

Seattle at San Francisco, 4:25 ET
Seattle: 5-18 ATS off a home blowout win by 21 points or more
San Francisco: 9-2 ATS off 1 or more consecutive unders

Atlanta at Green Bay, 4:25 ET
Atlanta: 1-6 ATS after having lost 2 out of their last 3 games
Green Bay: 52-29 ATS in the last 4 weeks of the regular season


Mon, Dec. 9

Dallas at Chicago, 8:40 ET
Dallas: 56-36 UNDER in road games in the second half of the season
Chicago: 1-8 ATS against conference opponentsouble digit favorite

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday, December 8

1:00 PM
INDIANAPOLIS vs. CINCINNATI
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Indianapolis's last 9 games on the road
Indianapolis is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
Cincinnati is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing Indianapolis
Cincinnati is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Indianapolis

1:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. NEW ENGLAND
Cleveland is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Cleveland is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing New England
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New England's last 5 games when playing Cleveland

1:00 PM
MIAMI vs. PITTSBURGH
Miami is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
Miami is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Pittsburgh's last 9 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Pittsburgh's last 16 games at home

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. BALTIMORE
Minnesota is 3-9-1 SU in its last 13 games ,
Minnesota is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Baltimore is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Baltimore's last 8 games at home

1:00 PM
BUFFALO vs. TAMPA BAY
Buffalo is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Buffalo is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Tampa Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Buffalo
Tampa Bay is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games at home

1:00 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. WASHINGTON
Kansas City is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Kansas City's last 20 games
Washington is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Washington is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home

1:00 PM
DETROIT vs. PHILADELPHIA
Detroit is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games
Philadelphia is 2-10 SU in its last 12 games at home
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Detroit

1:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. GREEN BAY
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing on the road against Green Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 6 games
Green Bay is 0-4-1 SU in its last 5 games ,
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta

1:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. NY JETS
Oakland is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Jets
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the NY Jets last 6 games when playing Oakland
NY Jets are 6-12 SU in their last 18 games when playing Oakland

4:05 PM
TENNESSEE vs. DENVER
Tennessee is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Denver
Tennessee is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games
Denver is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games
Denver is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Tennessee

4:25 PM
SEATTLE vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Seattle is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Seattle is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
The total has gone OVER in 8 of San Francisco's last 12 games at home
San Francisco18-5-1 SU in its last 24 games at home

4:25 PM
NY GIANTS vs. SAN DIEGO
NY Giants are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of the NY Giants last 6 games
San Diego is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games at home
San Diego is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home

4:25 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. ARIZONA
St. Louis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing at home against St. Louis
Arizona is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing St. Louis

8:30 PM
CAROLINA vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games when playing New Orleans
Carolina is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
New Orleans is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Carolina
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New Orleans's last 5 games when playing Carolina


Monday, December 9

8:40 PM
DALLAS vs. CHICAGO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Dallas's last 6 games when playing on the road against Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games
Chicago is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Chicago is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home

[StarDust Bum]

Four NFL teams tempted to tank down the home stretch

The 2014 NFL Draft is an interesting one. It will likely feature several top-tier quarterback prospects and have multiple teams aiming to improve their QB position.

With the final four weeks of the NFL season ahead, some players are playing for their coaches and their jobs while a few teams are looking ahead to which draft stud is going to save their team next season. Bettors should be weary of these four NFL teams tempted to tank in the home stretch of the NFL schedule:

Cleveland Browns (4-8 SU, 5-7 ATS)

After trading Trent Richardson for a first-round draft pick, the Browns have made it clear they’re building a team for the future. While Brian Hoyer showed he can manage the offense if healthy, Brandon Weeden is a bust and this team needs a legitimate quarterback to go with emerging WR Josh Gordon.

The Browns have a perfect excuse for tanking, with three of their final four games on the road, including a trip to New England Sunday. Cleveland is 1-4 SU and 2-3 ATS on the road this season.

Houston Texans (2-10 SU, 3-9 ATS)

The Texans find a central problem in their sub-par quarterback play. Despite how well Case Keenum performs, if the Texans draft first overall, taking either Teddy Bridgewater or Jadeveon Clowney is a win-win scenario.

The Texans visit Jacksonville as 3-point road favorites Thursday, facing a team that has won two of its last three. That’s one of three road stops in the final four weeks for Houston, which plays at Indianapolis, back home versus Denver, and at Tennessee to close out the schedule. Stick a fork in them.

Minnesota Vikings (3-8 SU, 6-6 ATS)

A lot of questions remain on the status of head coach Leslie Frazier. While Frazier isn’t at fault for selecting Christian Ponder 12th overall in 2011, he is to blame for Josh Freeman. Ponder is out and it's obvious the Vikings’ quarterback dilemma won't end soon.

Minnesota meets the defending Super Bowl champion Ravens as a 7-point road underdog Sunday. The Vikings do have two home games remaining on the schedule and can throw a wrinkle in a few playoff races, with Baltimore, Philadelphia, Cincinnati and Detroit on deck. Word out of the Twin Cities is that players aren’t quitting on their coach, evidenced by a tie in Green Bay and an OT win over Chicago. It seems Minnesota can't even get tanking right.

Atlanta Falcons (3-9 SU, 4-8 ATS)

The Falcons have been a team plagued with ailments throughout 2013. Injuries to their star receivers Roddy White and Julio Jones have taken away the offensive threat and the need to use the short field is a huge reason why Atlanta has been so bad in the red zone.

For Atlanta, a healthy roster is a good one and it should at least get something out of this disaster of a season, in terms of draft position. The Falcons are waiting on Aaron Rodgers’ status for Sunday’s game in Green Bay, then have a home date with Washington next week and two tough games at San Francisco and at home to Carolina to wrap up a forgettable 2013.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL Consensus Picks

Sides (ATS)

Time Away Line Picks Pct Home Line Picks Pct Detail Odds

1:00 PM Cleveland +10 596 29.45% New England -10 1428 70.55% View View

4:05 PM Tennessee +13.5 1010 33.02% Denver -13.5 2049 66.98% View View

1:00 PM Miami +3 1120 34.75% Pittsburgh -3 2103 65.25% View View

1:00 PM Buffalo +2.5 1117 35.15% Tampa Bay -2.5 2061 64.85% View View

8:30 PM Carolina +3 1145 37.39% New Orleans -3 1917 62.61% View View

4:25 PM N.Y. Giants +4 1192 41.27% San Diego -4 1696 58.73% View View

1:00 PM Minnesota +6 1345 42.74% Baltimore -6 1802 57.26% View View

1:00 PM Atlanta +3.5 815 42.94% Green Bay -3.5 1083 57.06% View View

4:25 PM St. Louis +4 1302 43.87% Arizona -4 1666 56.13% View View

1:00 PM Detroit +2.5 1545 48.09% Philadelphia -2.5 1668 51.91% View View

4:25 PM Seattle +2.5 1541 49.11% San Francisco -2.5 1597 50.89% View View

1:00 PM Indianapolis +7 1595 50.09% Cincinnati -7 1589 49.91% View View

1:00 PM Oakland +3 1929 61.41% N.Y. Jets -3 1212 38.59% View View

1:00 PM Kansas City -3 2537 78.81% Washington +3 682 21.19% View View



Totals (Over/Under)

Time Away Total Over Pct Home Total Under Pct Detail Odds

1:00 PM Oakland 39.5 820 39.67% N.Y. Jets 39.5 1247 60.33% View View

1:00 PM Miami 41 920 43.46% Pittsburgh 41 1197 56.54% View View

1:00 PM Atlanta 44.5 625 47.93% Green Bay 44.5 679 52.07% View View

1:00 PM Minnesota 41.5 1123 51.68% Baltimore 41.5 1050 48.32% View View

1:00 PM Kansas City 44 1100 53.37% Washington 44 961 46.63% View View

1:00 PM Cleveland 47.5 754 55.20% New England 47.5 612 44.80% View View

4:25 PM Seattle 41 1073 56.24% San Francisco 41 835 43.76% View View

1:00 PM Detroit 52.5 1319 59.76% Philadelphia 52.5 888 40.24% View View

4:25 PM St. Louis 40.5 1280 61.96% Arizona 40.5 786 38.04% View View

1:00 PM Buffalo 43 1312 62.09% Tampa Bay 43 801 37.91% View View

1:00 PM Indianapolis 43.5 1311 62.22% Cincinnati 43.5 796 37.78% View View

4:25 PM N.Y. Giants 47 1239 64.03% San Diego 47 696 35.97% View View

8:30 PM Carolina 47 1352 67.20% New Orleans 47 660 32.80% View View

4:05 PM Tennessee 49.5 1516 71.11% Denver 49.5 616 28.89% View View

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday, December 8

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Minnesota - 1:00 PM ET Minnesota +6 500
Baltimore - Over 41.5 500

Kansas City - 1:00 PM ET Washington +3.5 500 *****
Washington - Under 44 500

Buffalo - 1:00 PM ET Buffalo +2.5 500 *****
Tampa Bay - Over 43 500

Miami - 1:00 PM ET Pittsburgh -3 500 DOUBLE POD
Pittsburgh - Under 40.5 500

Detroit - 1:00 PM ET Philadelphia -2.5 500 *****
Philadelphia - Under 52.5 500

Indianapolis - 1:00 PM ET Indianapolis +7 500
Cincinnati - Under 43.5 500

Cleveland - 1:00 PM ET New England -10 500
New England - Under 47.5 500

Oakland - 1:00 PM ET Oakland +3 500 *****
N.Y. Jets - Under 39.5 500

Atlanta - 1:00 PM ET Green Bay -3.5 500
Green Bay - Under 44.5 500

Tennessee - 4:05 PM ET Denver -13.5 500
Denver - Over 49.5 500

St. Louis - 4:25 PM ET St. Louis +4 500 *****
Arizona - Under 40.5 500

Seattle - 4:25 PM ET San Francisco -2.5 500 DOUBLE POD
San Francisco - Under 41 500

N.Y. Giants - 4:25 PM ET N.Y. Giants +4 500
San Diego - Under 47 500

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday Night Pod:


Carolina - 8:30 PM ET Carolina +3 500 *****

New Orleans - Under 46.5 500 *****

[StarDust Bum]

MNF - Cowboys at Bears

December 8, 2013


The Bears and Cowboys are both within reach of gaining first place in their respective divisions with just four games left in the regular season. Dallas visits Chicago on Monday night as each squad is fighting for an opportunity just to get in the playoffs, as the division championship route may be the only viable option.

Jay Cutler remains out for the Bears as the quarterback missed his third straight game with an ankle injury last Sunday. Chicago squandered a 20-10 lead in the fourth quarter of an overtime defeat at Minnesota, 23-20. Robbie Gould missed a 47-yard field goal in overtime to win it for Chicago, as the Bears lost in spite of wide receiver Alshon Jeffery hauling in 249 yards and two touchdowns. The Bears dropped their third game in four tries, but Chicago can tie Detroit for first place in the NFC North with a victory on Monday.

The Cowboys won their second straight contest after rallying past the Raiders on Thanksgiving, 31-24. Dallas failed to cover as 10-point home favorites, as DeMarco Murray found the end zone three times for the Cowboys in the victory. Since losing that shootout to Denver back in Week 5, the Cowboys have won five of their last seven contests to creep within one-half game of Philadelphia in the NFC East race.

Last season, the Bears went into Cowboys Stadium on a Monday night in October and knocked off Dallas, 34-18 as three-point underdogs. The Bears' defense returned two Tony Romo interceptions for touchdowns, as the Cowboys' quarterback was picked off five times in the defeat. Brandon Marshall burned Dallas for 138 yards and a touchdown, as the Cowboys picked up eight more first downs than the Bears in the loss (26-18).

Dallas makes its first visit to Soldier Field since 2010, when the Cowboys drilled the Bears, 34-10 to cash outright as three-point 'dogs. The Cowboys' defense harassed Rex Grossman all night with three interceptions, while Dallas outscored Chicago, 31-7 in the second half to narrowly finish 'over' the closing total of 41.

Cutler will miss his fifth full game of the season, while basically being out for most of the loss at Washington back in Week 7. Josh McCown has filled in admirably for Cutler, tossing nine touchdowns and throwing only one interception. However, the Bears are 2-3 SU and 1-4 ATS with McCown under center, while he is making just his second home start of the season.

The Bears have been a disaster to back this season, as Marc Trestman's club owns a dreadful 2-9 ATS record. In fact, Chicago has covered only one of its last nine games and that came in a win as 10-point underdogs at Green Bay in Week 9 when Aaron Rodgers suffered a collarbone injury in the first quarter. At Soldier Field this season, the Bears have put together an 0-5-1 ATS record, while losing outright to the Saints and Lions.

Normally, Dallas has been a poor team to wager on since its lines were inflated due to perception. However, the Cowboys are cashing tickets with an 8-4 ATS record, including an impressive 4-2 ATS mark away from Arlington. Jason Garrett's team has failed to win three straight games this season, but Dallas owns a 6-2 record inside the NFC, which will certainly help them for tiebreaker purposes.

The 'under' has been the play on Monday night football recently, hitting in three straight and seven of the past eight weeks. The favorites are currently on a 3-0 SU/ATS run, including consecutive blowout wins by San Francisco (at Washington) and Seattle (against New Orleans). The Cowboys are making their first appearance on Monday night this season, while going 1-2 SU and 0-3 ATS since 2010 under the Monday spotlight.

From a totals perspective, Dallas has finished 'over' the total in three straight games, while compiling an 8-4 mark to the 'over' this season. In six road contests, the Cowboys have hit the 'over' four times, including each of the last three games against the Giants, Saints, and Lions. The Bears are 4-2 to the 'over' at Soldier Field, with the two 'unders' coming in games with totals above 50 against New Orleans and Detroit.

After Dallas opened up as a short one-point favorite, this game is listed at a pick-em at most spots. The total is set at 48 across the board, as the contest kicks off at 8:30 PM from Soldier Field and can be seen nationally on ESPN.