Saturday's Trends and Indexes - 3/22 (NBA, NCAAB, NHL, Misc.)

[Udog]

NHL

Saturday, March 22

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Trend Report
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1:00 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. PHILADELPHIA
St. Louis is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
St. Louis is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 8 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay

2:00 PM
DETROIT vs. MINNESOTA
Detroit is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Detroit's last 6 games
Minnesota is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home
Minnesota is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games

3:00 PM
OTTAWA vs. DALLAS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Ottawa's last 6 games when playing Dallas
Ottawa is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Dallas's last 7 games when playing at home against Ottawa
Dallas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Ottawa

4:00 PM
FLORIDA vs. LOS ANGELES
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Florida's last 6 games when playing Los Angeles
Florida is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing Los Angeles
Los Angeles is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games
Los Angeles is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Florida

7:00 PM
CAROLINA vs. WINNIPEG
Carolina is 2-8 SU in its last 10 games on the road
Carolina is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Winnipeg
Winnipeg is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Carolina
Winnipeg is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home

7:00 PM
MONTREAL vs. TORONTO
Montreal is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Montreal's last 12 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Toronto's last 12 games when playing at home against Montreal
Toronto is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Montreal

7:00 PM
NY RANGERS vs. NEW JERSEY
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Rangers last 7 games
NY Rangers are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against New Jersey
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Jersey's last 5 games at home
New Jersey is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing at home against NY Rangers

9:00 PM
BOSTON vs. PHOENIX
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing on the road against Phoenix
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Phoenix's last 10 games at home
Phoenix is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home

10:00 PM
CALGARY vs. EDMONTON
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Calgary's last 5 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
Calgary is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Edmonton's last 13 games
Edmonton is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Calgary

10:30 PM
WASHINGTON vs. SAN JOSE
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Jose
Washington is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
San Jose is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
San Jose is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington


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[Udog]

NCAAB

Saturday, March 22

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Round 3 betting cheat sheet: East Region Day 3
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(12) Harvard Crimson vs. (4) Michigan State Spartans (-7, 137)

While the Spartans leaned heavily on Adreian Payne, the Crimson relied upon a balanced attack and their usual stout defense to get past Cincinnati. Wesley Saunders led the way with 12 points and four of his team's nine assists and Harvard improved to 15-0 when holding its opponent under 60 points. Head coaches Tommy Amaker of Harvard and Tom Izzo of Michigan State will be renewing acquaintances - Amaker was 3-7 against Izzo as coach of Michigan from 2001-07.

Payne had four free throws and one basket to his credit with just over eight minutes left in the first half before he began to author one of the great tournament showings in history. He produced a personal 12-0 run with three 3-pointers and a three-point play, finished the first half with 23 points and scored eight straight Spartans points down the stretch to help fend off a minor threat from the Blue Hens.

TRENDS:

* Crimson are 7-1 ATS in their last eight games overall.
* Spartans are 18-7-1 ATS in their last 26 games overall.
* Under is 5-0 in Crimson last five non-conference games.


(7) UConn Huskies vs. (2) Villanova Wildcats (-3.5, 132.5)

Senior point guard Shabazz Napier scored 19 of his 24 points after halftime in the win over Saint Joseph’s, which led for much of the game before the Huskies took control in overtime. Guard Ryan Boatright had 17 points, including four 3-pointers, and 7-foot freshman center Amida Brimah had nine points, six rebounds and one block in 30 minutes, including a key three-point play late in regulation.

Villanova is 8-of-42 from 3-point range over its last two games, but the Wildcats prevailed against Milwaukee by holding the Panthers to 28.6 percent shooting. The Wildcats won the Big East regular-season title and set a school record with 28 regular-season victories. They are one victory away from tying the school’s single-season record of 30.

TRENDS:

* Wildcats are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 non-conference games.
* Huskies are 5-1 ATS in their last six vs. Big East.
* Under is 13-3 in Huskies last 16 overall.


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[Udog]

NCAAB

Saturday, March 22

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Round 3 betting cheat sheet: South Region Day 3
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(9) Pittsburgh Panthers vs. (1) Florida Gators (-5, 124)

The Panthers have won six of eight and part of that turnaround can be attributed to their recent offensive efficiency and senior forward Talib Zanna, who is averaging 16 points and shooting 67.6 percent from the field over that stretch. Pittsburgh has shot at least 50 percent six times in that timeframe and scored 77 or more points in each of its last five victories.

Although Florida extended its school-record winning streak to 27 games, the Gators face an uphill battle to fulfill their national championship aspirations as none of the previous 20 No. 1 seeds that won their opening game by 12 points or fewer went on to win it all. Florida is seeking its fourth straight visit to the Sweet 16 while Pittsburgh eyes its first trip to the regional semifinals since 2009.

TRENDS:

* Panthers are 1-6 ATS in their last seveb non-conference games.
* Gators are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four non-conference games.
* Under is 10-1 in Gators last 11 vs. Atlantic Coast.


(11) Dayton Flyers vs. (3) Syracuse Orange (-6.5, 128)

The Flyers' last three losses have all come against Saint Joseph's - a stretch that goes back nearly two months and features wins against George Washington, Massachusetts, Saint Louis and, most recently, Ohio State. One of Dayton's keys to defeating the Buckeyes was the team's ability to rebound, as Ohio State managed only three offensive rebounds on 26 missed shots. Dayton played one ACC team this season, winning by 10 points at Georgia Tech in late November.

Despite entering the NCAA tournament with a 2-5 record in its last seven games, Syracuse resembled the team that opened the season 25-0 on Thursday. Jerami Grant contributed 16 points and C.J. Fair added 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Orange, who dominated the glass, 41-25, and will look to continue that trend against the guard-heavy Flyers. Fair has not posted back-to-back double-doubles since February 2013.

TRENDS:

* Flyers are 5-1 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Orange are 3-14 ATS in their last 17 vs. Atlantic 10.
* Over is 5-0 in Orange last five overall.


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[Udog]

NCAAB

Saturday, March 22

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Round 3 betting cheat sheet: Midwest Region Day 3
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(5) Saint Louis Billikens vs. (4)Louisville Cardinals (-9, 133)

The Billikens found themselves in a dire situation as they trailed by 14 with just over five minutes left in regulation before roaring back to force overtime and then registering an 83-80 win over North Carolina State. Rob Loe scored 22 points and grabbed a career-best 15 rebounds and was stunned in the postgame press conference over the seemingly unfathomable comeback. “Yeah, that’s probably the weirdest turn of events that I’ve ever been a part of,” Loe said. Saint Louis was 12-for-26 from the free throw line against North Carolina State.

Defending national champion Louisville came oh-so-close to being one-and-done in the NCAA tournament. The fourth-seeded Cardinals will look to put forth a better performance when they meet fifth-seeded Saint Louis in Saturday’s round of 32 in Orlando. Forward Luke Hancock, one of the stars of the Cardinals’ 2013 title run, scored eight of his 16 points in the final 1:53 to help Louisville overcome a late deficit against Manhattan and post a 71-64 victory in Midwest regional play. Louisville holds a 45-20 series lead but the teams haven’t played since 2005 when both schools were in Conference USA.

TRENDS:

* Billikens are 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
* Billikens are 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 games overall.
* Cardinals are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 NCAA Tournament games.


(7) Texas Longhorns vs. (2) Michigan Wolverines (-5, 139)

Cameron Ridley led the Longhorns' balanced offense and big frontcourt with 17 points, 12 rebounds and Thursday's game-winner. Texas had six players in double figures, went 8-of-8 in transition and outscored Arizona State 42-30 in the paint on the way to the Longhorns' most points (87) in a NCAA tournament game since a 90-72 win against Oregon in 1995.

The Wolverines beat Wofford 57-40 in the second round, the fewest point ever allowed by Michigan at the tournament. Since the start of last season, Michigan is 24-1 when Nik Stauskas makes more than 50 percent of his field-goal attempts, including 12-0 this season. Coach John Beilein (699-411) can become the sixth active coach with 700 career wins with a win Saturday.

TRENDS:

* Longhorns are 0-5 ATS in their last five NCAA Tournament games.
* Wolverines are 6-1 ATS in their last seven vs. Big 12.
* Over is 5-1 in Longhorns last six non-conference games.


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[Udog]

NCAAB

Saturday, March 22

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Round 3 betting cheat sheet: West Region Day 3
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(12) North Dakota State Bison vs. (4) San Diego State Aztecs (-3, 125.5)

Fresh off the first NCAA tournament win in school history, North Dakota State is setting its sights on higher goals. The Summit League champion shot 52.9 percent from the floor against the Sooners and grabbed the 80-75 overtime win despite conference Player of the Year Taylor Braun managing only 11 points on 3-of-11 shooting and fouling out down the stretch. The Bison, who have won 10 straight games, led the nation in field-goal percentage at .509 and will need every bit of offense they can find against the Aztecs, who finished second in the nation in scoring defense.

The Aztecs held New Mexico State to 40 percent shooting from the field in their NCAA tournament opener but connected at only 39 percent themselves while sweating through the 73-69 triumph. San Diego State is strong on the interior defensively with Skylar Spencer, who collected four of the Aztecs’ nine blocked shots Thursday, and Josh Davis. The Aztecs are attempting to advance to the regional semifinals for the second time in four years.

TRENDS:

* Bison are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall.
* Aztecs are 5-2 ATS in their last seven neutral site games.
* Over is 9-2 in Bison last 11 non-conference games.


(7) Oregon Ducks vs. (2) Wisconsin Badgers (-5, 142)

Other than 19 points from Joseph Young, the starters for the Ducks weren’t too impressive against BYU. Mike Moser, Damyean Dotson, Johnathan Loyd and Waverly Austin combined for 19 points, forcing the bench to come through with 49. Oregon backup forward Elgin Cook took advantage of the opportunity to play in front of family and friends in the second-round game and the 6-6 sophomore from Milwaukee poured in a season-high 23 points and eight rebounds.

What makes the Badgers so difficult to match up with is their balanced scoring. Kaminsky and fellow starters Ben Brust, Sam Dekker, Traevon Jackson and Josh Gasser averaged between 9.2 and 13.6 points heading into the postseason and 6-7 freshman forward Nigel Hayes has emerged as a key contributor off the bench.

TRENDS:

* Ducks are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 neutral site games.
* Badgers are 4-0 ATS in their last four non-conference games.
* Over is 11-2 in Ducks last 13 non-conference games.


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[Udog]

NHL
Dunkel

Calgary at Edmonton
The Flames head to Edmonton tonight where they are 7-2 in their last 9 games against the Oilers. Calgary is the pick (+125) according to Dunkel, which has the Flames favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Calgary (+125). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22

Game 1-2: Tampa Bay at Pittsburgh (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 11.800; Pittsburgh 10.957
Dunkel Line & Total: Tampa Bay by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Pittsburgh (-170); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+150); Over

Game 3-4: St. Louis at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 12.523; Philadelphia 11.014
Dunkel Line & Total: St. Louis by 1 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-135); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-135); Under

Game 5-6: Detroit at Minnesota (2:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 10.796; Minnesota 12.385
Dunkel Line & Total: Minnesota by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Minnesota (-150); 5
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (-150); Over

Game 7-8: Ottawa at Dallas (3:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 11.506; Dallas 10.432
Dunkel Line & Total: Ottawa by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 9-10: Florida at Los Angeles (4:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Florida 10.382; Los Angeles 12.198
Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles (-265); 5
Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-265); Over

Game 11-12: Montreal at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 11.561; Toronto 10.771
Dunkel Line & Total: Montreal by 1; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-115); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Montreal (-105); Under

Game 13-14: Carolina at Winnipeg (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 10.244; Winnipeg 11.778
Dunkel Line & Total: Winnipeg by 1 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Winnipeg (-160); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Winnipeg (-160); Under

Game 15-16: NY Rangers at New Jersey (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Rangers 11.929; New Jersey 10.426
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Rangers by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: New Jersey (-110); 5
Dunkel Pick: NY Rangers (-110); Over

Game 17-18: Boston at Phoenix (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 13.163; Phoenix 11.449
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 1 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-135); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-135); Under

Game 19-20: Calgary at Edmonton (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Calgary 11.909; Edmonton 10.740
Dunkel Line & Total: Calgary by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Edmonton (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Calgary (+125); Over

Game 21-22: Washington at San Jose (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 11.000; San Jose 12.526
Dunkel Line & Total: San Jose by 1 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: San Jose (-210); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Jose (-210); Under

[Udog]

NHL

Saturday, March 22


Dont expect a lot of fireworks between the Coyotes and Bruins

Not many people think offense when they hear the Boston Bruins or the Phoenix Coyotes and they have good reason.

In the previous eight meetings between the Phoenix and Boston, the teams have gone under seven times including their one meeting earlier this season. The last nine times the Bruins and the Coyotes battled in the desert they've stayed under the puckline all nine times.

The Coyotes themselves are also going under at an 80 percent rate in their past 10 games.

Phoenix and Boston open with a puckline of 5.5.


Flames have been dominant in the battle of Alberta

The battle of Alberta has lost it's teeth over the past few seasons, with the games between the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers being for bragging rights alone. It also helps that the Flames have dominated the series.

In the past 27 meetings between the Flames and Oilers, Calgary has a 20-7 record. When the teams play in the Rexall Place, the Flames own a 7-2 record in the past nine and have taken the past three straight.

Let's add in the fact that the Oilers own the worst home record in the Western Conference, third worst in the NHL, at it looks like the Flames may continue their hot trend against their Albertan rival.

The Flames (+125) will look to keep control in the series against the Oilers (-135) Saturday.


Goal scoring lamps in jeopardy when Sens and Stars meet

Between a combination of mediocre goaltending and terrible defense, the Ottawa Senators are the top Over team in the NHL with 41-27-1. The Dallas Stars like to score too, holding the third highest O/U record in the West (35-29).

The Sens have gone Over in five of their past six games and the Stars have an O/U record of 6-1 in their past seven at home. The past 12 games between these two teams, have gone Over eight times.

Expect the goalies to be applying the sunscreen after all the goals scored when Ottawa meets Dallas when they open with a 5.5 puckline Saturday.


Lightning and Penguins put the biscuit in the basket

The Lightning have been scoring at a ridiculous pace during a five-game win streak (4.4 GPG) and have gone over the puckline in their past three. The Pittsburgh Penguins have not been so hot, scoring just 2.8 GPG during five, but meeting the Lightning may be the spark they need.

The past eight meetings between the Lighting and Penguins have seen them top the puckline seven times, including four straight in Pittsburgh. The Penguins also score more at home with four of their past five going Over, and an 18-13-1 O/U record in their barn.

Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay opened with a puckline of 5.5 Saturday.

[Udog]

MLB

Saturday, March 22


Puig to leadoff for Dodgers Opening Day

Manager Don Mattingly has revealed his lineup for Opening Day when the Dodgers face-off against the Diamondbacks in Australia.

The most noticable part of the order is Yasel Puig listed as the leadoff hitter for the Dodgers. Not many other surprises as Hanley Rameriez and Adrian Gonzalez will be at the heart of the order.

The entire lineup looks like this:

1. Yasiel Puig RF
2. Justin Turner 2B
3. Hanley Ramirez SS
4. Adrian Gonzalez 1B
5. Scott Van Slyke LF
6. Juan Uribe 3B
7. Andre Ethier CF
8. A.J. Ellis C
9. Clayton Kershaw P


Liriano's availability for Opening Day in question

Pittsburgh Pirates left-hander Francisco Liriano left in the sixth inning of his start against the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday because of tightness in his left groin. He landed awkwardly after throwing a pitch and was removed from the game after being examined by team trainers.

The injury puts the Pittsburgh ace's availability in question for his scheduled Opening Day start March 31 against the Chicago Cubs, although Liriano's postgame comments make it sound like he left the game as a precaution.

"I didn't want to keep pitching like that, maybe push it too much and have it get worse," Liriano told the Pittsburgh Tribune Review.

Liriano, who had a limp in the clubhouse postgame, pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing just four hits while walking one and striking out four.

"I think it's going to be OK," Liriano said. "We'll see how I feel (Friday)."

[Udog]

NFL

Saturday, March 22


Jets release Sanchez, sign Vick

The New York Jets made a change at quarterback on Friday, signing free-agent Michael Vick and releasing Mark Sanchez after five seasons.

Vick and the Jets reached agreement on a one-year contract, according to reports. He leaves the Philadelphia Eagles after being replaced as the starter last season by Nick Foles.

Sanchez was selected by the Jets with the fifth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft and started 62 games, posting a 33-29 record and passing for 68 touchdowns and 69 interceptions.

Releasing Sanchez, who was due a $2 million bonus on March 25, saved the Jets $8.3 million against the salary cap.

"I'd like to thank Mark for everything he's done for this team and me personally," Jets coach Rex Ryan said. "We were rookies together and had some early success, becoming the first rookie head coach and quarterback to go to back-to-back championship games. We experienced a lot together and I really appreciate Mark. He's a great player, a great teammate, and I wish him nothing but the best."

Sanchez, who becomes a free agent, lost the starting job to Geno Smith, a rookie last season, when he suffered a shoulder injury in the Jets' third presason game against the New York Giants. He sat out the 2013 season after undergoing shoulder surgery and also an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee.

Sanchez's best years came early in his career with the Jets. He established franchise rookie records for passing yards with 2,444 and completions with 196 as the team's first rookie quarterback to start the opening game of the season. In the 2009 postseason, Sanchez led the Jets to the AFC Championship game.

In Sanchez's second year, the Jets won 11 regular-season games and he passed for 3,291 yards and 17 touchdowns. New York made it to the AFC Championship game again, this time losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Jets have not returned to the playoffs since then and Sanchez had 52 turnovers in the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

Vick joined the Eagles in 2009 after six years with the Atlanta Falcons and serving time in prison on federal gambling and dogfighting charges.



Raiders expect Schaub to resurrect career

So much for the talk of Texas A&M's dynamic Johnny Manziel beginning his NFL career with the Oakland Raiders. Or any other quarterback expected to be selected high in the 2014 draft.

After being discarded in disgrace by the Houston Texans for a lowly sixth-round pick, Matt Schaub is penciled in as the starting quarterback for the Raiders "for more than just a year or two," according to coach Dennis Allen.

Allen, offensive coordinator Greg Olson and Schaub himself were brimming with confidence Friday as they explained to the media how this will be the start, or restart, of something good after the quarterback's stock plunged during a horrendous 2013 in Houston.

"We brought Matt Schaub in to be our starting quarterback and we feel very confident that he is going to be outstanding for us," Allen said. "He is a two-time Pro Bowl player and when you have the chance to add those kinds of players, that's what you do."

This latest move in the Raiders' rapidly revolving quarterback carousel puts Schaub atop a depth chart that includes Terrelle Pryor and Matt McGloin.

Schaub, 46-44 as a starter, lost his job and his confidence -- not necessarily in that order -- last year during a dreadful series of four consecutive, game-deciding, pick-six interceptions that helped launch the Texans into a 14-game losing streak.

After beginning last season as the starter of a team that some believed could make the Super Bowl, Schaub was booed in his home stadium when it was necessary to put him back into a late-season game.

But after reviewing Schaub's play for last year and before, Allen seems confident that the quarterback will rebound. He reminded that something similar happened to another player.

No, he did not mention Jim Plunkett, who was picked off the scrap heap in 1978 and wound up quarterbacking the Raiders in two Super Bowl victories. He recalled a more recent ascent from the ashes -- Kurt Warner.

"I don't think when you watch the whole tape that a lot of it was his fault and I think there was just a wave of momentum against him that was hard for him to overcome," Allen said of Schaub.

"But we've all seen guys. . . a guy that comes to my mind is a guy like Kurt Warner went to a Super Bowl, won a Super Bowl in St. Louis, went on to play for the New York Giants and his career didn't go as well as he thought and really a lot of people thought that he was done and then he goes into Arizona and kind of resurrects his career."

Warner led the Cardinals into Super Bowl XLII.

"So I think the change of scenery will be outstanding for Matt," Allen said. "I think this is a good situation for both Matt Schaub and the Oakland Raiders."

Schaub readily concurred.

"A fresh start can do a lot of things for a player and a team," he said. "I'm one of those guys. Last year did not go at all how I had planned, given my prior nine years before that. I'm looking for a fresh start. I'm excited about the opportunity here and the players on this team, the coaches, the plan and the direction."

Allen added that while this does not definitely preclude taking a quarterback in the draft, it is doubtful the Raiders will select one very high.

"You don't feel that pressure to go out and draft a quarterback, you kind of let things fall to you," he said.

Olson said he was thrilled to get Schaub, whom he knew from his days with the Atlanta Falcons, the team that drafted him in the third round out of the University of Virginia in 2004. After playing in only six games while toiling as a backup to Michael Vick, Schaub was traded to Houston in March 2007 in a deal that included sending two second-round picks to the Falcons.

Olson said this reminded him of his experience coaching with Jeff Garcia at San Francisco. Garcia did not have much of a career until throwing 31 and 32 touchdown passes in 2000 and 2001. And Schaub already has more of a rolling start.

"He's had nine seasons of a 90-plus quarterback rating, which I think there are only four or five players in the history of the league that have ever done that," Olson said of Schaub. "Obviously, he's had a tremendous amount of experience. He's at an age right now where most quarterbacks are in their prime. We feel like he's got a lot of football ahead of him. He's a proven winner. We weren't going to let last season deter us from the player and the track record that he has shown over his career.

"I remember Jeff Garcia. ... Some players need to be in the right place at the right time and things just come together."

Schaub said the foot injury that bothered him last year is fine and he is more than ready to move on.

"Foot's great, healthy," he said. "The past is the past. I can't do anything about that except move on to bigger and better things. I'm excited for what the future holds here with Oakland. Just excited to get to work. I'm happy to be here and I'm very confident in my abilities and the players on this team."



13 proposed rules changes to be put up for vote

The annual National Football League meeting begins Monday in Orlando, Fla., and there will be changes of 13 rules, seven by-laws and one resolution potentially put up for vote.

However, perhaps the most discussed issue in recent weeks won't be part of a rule change, but rather a "significant point of emphasis," as described by St. Louis Rams head coach and competition committee member Jeff Fisher.

While framed around use of the "N-word," officials will be instructed to enforce the existing rule for abusive language and unsportsmanlike conduct while also seeking to clean up problems that seem to be growing on the field.

That was evidenced by the point made by Atlanta Falcons president and CEO and competition committee chairman Rich McKay that taunting penalties increased from nine in 2012 to 34 in 2013. McKay further explained that the league will invest significant time in the offseason with officials and then coaches and players regarding how the league wants the rule enforced.

Also not part of the official proposals is anything related to the potential expansion of the playoffs for the 2015 season. That subject is included in the competition committee report and is expected to be discussed, although a vote likely won't happen until later in the year.

McKay and Fisher also outlined the various proposals on the agenda to be discussed next week. Of the 13 rules changes, three were proposed by the Washington Redskins, four by the New England Patriots and six by the competition committee.

The competition committee proposals included an addition to the rule about rolling up on the back of a player's leg to include rolling up from the side; allowing the on-field referee to consult with a member of the league's officiating department, likely vice president of officiating Dean Blandino in the New York command center, during replay reviews; add to the reviewable list of plays clear recoveries of fumbles in the field of play like the one by San Francisco 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman during the playoffs; keep the game clock running on sacks; eliminate the one yard from the line of scrimmage rule for pass interference; and have defensive penalties behind the line of scrimmage be enforced from the previous spot rather than from where the foul occurred or where the play ended.

The Redskins want the kickoff moved from the 35- to the 40-yard line; instant replay be extended to include personal fouls and overtime eliminated from preseason games.

The Patriots proposed that the goal posts be moved five feet further up from the crossbar; the line of scrimmage for extra-point kicks be moved to the 25-yard line; six cameras be added on boundary lines to supplement the network cameras; and coaches be allowed to challenge any decision aside from scoring plays and changes of possession, which are now automatically reviewed within the replay system.

McKay said that if the proposed rule for moving the yard line for extra-point kicks is voted down, the committee will suggest there be a one-week experiment in the preseason with kicks coming from the 20-yard line. McKay estimated that the success rate for kicks from the 25-yard line would be about 90 percent compared to the 99.6 of extra-point kicks made last season.

Five of the by-law changes were also proposed by the busy Redskins: increasing the active list for games on days other than Sunday or Monday from 46 to 49, but not including the season-opening Thursday; increasing the practice squad from eight to 10 players; have trades be possible prior to the start of the new league year; eliminate the cutdown to 75 players so there would be just one cutdown to 53; and allow more than one player to return to the roster from reserve/injured during the season.

The Philadelphia Eagles are proposing that teams be allowed to time and test up to 10 draft-eligible players at their own facility and have other teams be permitted to be there as long as there are at least three players in attendance.

The competition committee proposed that the time of the cutdown to 53 players on Saturday after the final preseason game be changed from 6 p.m. ET to 4 p.m. unless there are any games on Friday.

Finally, the Indianapolis Colts submitted a resolution that teams with retractable roofs on their stadium be allowed to open the roof at halftime.

[Udog]

Kenseth edges Keselowski for Sprint Cup pole at Fontana

FONTANA, Calif.-Matt Kenseth aced the test when it counted most, topping the speed chart in the third and decisive round of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series qualifying Friday at Auto Club Speedway.

Touring the two-mile track in 38.438 seconds (187.315 mph) Kenseth put his No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota on the pole for Sunday's Auto Club 400, the fifth race of the 2014 Sprint Cup season.

Kenseth edged Brad Keselowski (187.105 mph for the top starting spot, but Keselowski will start on the front row for his fourth consecutive race. Keselowski has qualified either first or second since the debut of knockout qualifying in the Cup series at Phoenix for the second race of the season.

Jimmie Johnson will start third after a lap at 186.935 mph. Kevin Harvick (186.901 mph) qualified fourth, followed by Clint Bowyer (186.461 mph) and Jeff Gordon (186.384 mph). Joey Logano, Marcos Ambrose, last week's Bristol winner Carl Edwards, Tony Stewart, rookie Kyle Larson and Martin Truex Jr. will start in positions seven through 12 after advancing to the final round.

Because of the track's abrasive surface, the top speeds fell off for each of the three sessions. Harvick led 24 drivers in the 25-minute first round with a lap at 187.975 mph. Jeff Gordon paced the 10-minute second round at 187.515 mph before Kenseth snagged the pole in the five-minute final.

Kenseth was fast in all three rounds, finishing fourth, second and first. His arc was decidedly different from that of Keselowski, who gained speed in all three rounds and advanced from 18th to 10th to second.

"We unloaded, and we had some really good speed, and that translated to qualifying trim," said Kenseth, who won his first Coors Light pole award of the season, his first at Auto Club Speedway and the 12th of his career. "(Crew chief) Jason (Ratcliff) did a really good job the last two weeks of making good adjustments through the rounds and making it how we needed it for the last one.

"They gave me the car, and really, all I had to do was not mess it up."

Keselowski was the last driver to make an attempt in the final session but didn't think the track had time to cool significantly from the start of the session. Instead, he attributed his improved speed to adjustments made by crew chief Paul Wolfe.

"We needed all the time we could get to dial our car in and make the adjustments we needed, and we barely had enough time to get it done," Keselowski said.

Nevertheless, Keselowski understands the value of the front-row starting spot.

"It took me all three shots to get in the top 10," Keselowski said. "Fortunately, the last one was our best... Qualifying up front is always fun and always a great start to the weekend, but there's more to be done in the race, so we've got to keep that going as well."

Dale Earnhardt Jr. narrowly missed the cutoff for the final 12 and will start 15th on Sunday. Bumped from the top 24 late in the first session, Danica Patrick earned the 27th spot on the grid.

Subbing for driver Paul Menard, Matt Crafton was 30th fastest in the No. 27 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. Menard remained in North Carolina to spend time with his wife and newborn daughter Remi Barbara Christine Menard but will race at Fontana on Sunday, starting from the rear of the field because of the driver change.

NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Qualifying - Auto Club 400

Auto Club Speedway

Fontana, California

Friday, March 21, 2014

1. (20) Matt Kenseth, Toyota, 187.315 mph.

2. (2) Brad Keselowski, Ford, 187.105 mph.

3. (48) Jimmie Johnson, Chevrolet, 186.935 mph.

4. (4) Kevin Harvick, Chevrolet, 186.901 mph.

5. (15) Clint Bowyer, Toyota, 186.461 mph.

6. (24) Jeff Gordon, Chevrolet, 186.384 mph.

7. (22) Joey Logano, Ford, 186.273 mph.

8. (9) Marcos Ambrose, Ford, 186.013 mph.

9. (99) Carl Edwards, Ford, 185.878 mph.

10. (14) Tony Stewart, Chevrolet, 185.792 mph.

11. (42) Kyle Larson #, Chevrolet, 185.773 mph.

12. (78) Martin Truex Jr., Chevrolet, 185.725 mph.

13. (11) Denny Hamlin, Toyota, 185.323 mph.

14. (18) Kyle Busch, Toyota, 185.314 mph.

15. (88) Dale Earnhardt Jr., Chevrolet, 185.290 mph.

16. (31) Ryan Newman, Chevrolet, 185.209 mph.

17. (41) Kurt Busch, Chevrolet, 185.166 mph.

18. (47) AJ Allmendinger, Chevrolet, 184.715 mph.

19. (55) Brian Vickers, Toyota, 184.521 mph.

20. (3) Austin Dillon #, Chevrolet, 183.960 mph.

21. (43) Aric Almirola, Ford, 183.955 mph.

22. (17) Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Ford, 183.861 mph.

23. (7) Michael Annett #, Chevrolet, 183.491 mph.

24. (16) Greg Biffle, Ford, 185.095 mph.

25. (1) Jamie McMurray, Chevrolet, 184.525 mph.

26. (5) Kasey Kahne, Chevrolet, 184.322 mph.

27. (10) Danica Patrick, Chevrolet, 184.299 mph.

28. (51) Justin Allgaier #, Chevrolet, 183.983 mph.

29. (38) David Gilliland, Ford, 183.922 mph.

30. (27) Matt Crafton(i), Chevrolet, 183.641 mph.

31. (13) Casey Mears, Chevrolet, 183.580 mph.

32. (30) Parker Kligerman #, Toyota, 182.918 mph.

33. (35) David Reutimann, Ford, 182.219 mph.

34. (26) Cole Whitt #, Toyota, 181.525 mph.

35. (32) Travis Kvapil, Ford, 181.507 mph.

36. (36) Reed Sorenson, Chevrolet, 181.365 mph.

37. (33) Brian Scott(i), Chevrolet, Owner Points

38. (98) Josh Wise, Chevrolet, Owner Points

39. (83) Ryan Truex #, Toyota, Owner Points

40. (23) Alex Bowman #, Toyota, Owner Points

41. (34) David Ragan, Ford, Owner Points

42. (66) Joe Nemechek(i), Toyota, Owner Points

43. (40) Landon Cassill(i), Chevrolet, Owner Points

[Udog]

NHL

Saturday, March 22

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Canadiens at Maple Leafs: What bettors need to know
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Montreal Canadiens at Toronto Maple Leafs (+102, 5.5)

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Original Six-rival Montreal Canadiens conclude their five-game season series Saturday in Ontario. Each team has won two games, with the Canadiens taking a 4-3 overtime victory on March 1 in Montreal to even the series. The Maple Leafs trail the Canadiens by three points for third place in the Atlantic Division, making Saturday’s meeting about much more than bragging rights.

Toronto is on a three-game losing streak and has dropped four of its last five games since goaltender Jonathan Bernier suffered a groin injury. James Reimer has struggled in his place, posting a 3.41 goals-against average and .907 save percentage in March. Carey Price is expected in net for Montreal despite allowing at least three goals in each of his three starts since returning from an injury suffered during the Olympics.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, CBC, RDS, NHL Network (US)

ABOUT THE CANADIENS (38-26-7): Brandon Prust has been shut down for the remainder of the regular season due to an upper-body injury suffered on Tuesday, when he recorded two points. Thomas Vanek has four goals in his last two games and is finding chemistry on a line with Max Pacioretty and David Desharnais, both of whom have nine points this month. Reigning Norris Trophy winner P.K. Subban leads the team with 49 points but has one assist in his last three contests.

ABOUT THE MAPLE LEAFS (36-27-8): Bernier could return as early as Saturday, but his status will not be determined until the morning skate. Defenseman Paul Ranger is day-to-day but does not have a concussion after being hit from behind in Wednesday’s game against Tampa Bay. Dave Bolland could make his long-awaited return from an ankle injury on Saturday, but is listed as questionable.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-0 in the last four meetings.
* Maple Leafs are 1-4 in their last five vs. Atlantic.
* Over is 10-1 in Maple Leafs last 11 Saturday games.
* Canadiens are 6-2 in their last 8 after scoring two goals or less in their previous game.

OVERTIME:

1. Subban has five points in four games against Toronto this season.

2. The Maple Leafs are 22-12-1 at home.

3. Montreal plays its next seven games against each of its opponents in the Atlantic Division.


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[Udog]

NBA
Dunkel

Miami at New Orleans
The Heat head to New Orleans tonight to face a Pelicans team that is 0-4 ATS in its last 4 games against teams with a winning percentage above .600. Miami is the pick (-5 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Heat favored by 9. Dunkel Pick: Miami (-5 1/2). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, MARCH 22

Game 501-502: Portland at Charlotte (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Portland 119.511; Charlotte 121.744
Dunkel Line & Total: Charlotte by 2; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Portland by 1; 203
Dunkel Pick: Charlotte (+1); Under

Game 503-504: Houston at Cleveland (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 119.946; Cleveland 119.114
Dunkel Line & Total: Houston by 1; 214
Vegas Line & Total: Houston by 8; 204
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+8); Over

Game 505-506: Indiana at Memphis (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 114.277; Memphis 123.638
Dunkel Line & Total: Memphis by 9 1/2; 177
Vegas Line & Total: Memphis by 2; 179
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (-2); Under

Game 507-508: Miami at New Orleans (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 122.276; New Orleans 113.345
Dunkel Line & Total: Miami by 9; 192
Vegas Line & Total: Miami by 5 1/2; 199 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Miami (-5 1/2); Under

Game 509-510: Philadelphia at Chicago (8:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 99.258; Chicago 125.089
Dunkel Line & Total: Chicago by 26; 191
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago by 16 1/2; 196
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (-16 1/2); Under

Game 511-512: Orlando at Utah (9:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Orlando 109.622; Utah 108.603
Dunkel Line & Total: Orlando by 1; 199
Vegas Line & Total: Utah by 5; 196
Dunkel Pick: Orlando (+5); Over

Game 513-514: Detroit at LA Clippers (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 114.098; LA Clippers 125.128
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 11; 209
Vegas Line & Total: LA Clippers by 13; 216 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+13); Under

Game 515-516: San Antonio at Golden State (10:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Antonio 126.413; Golden State 123.643
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 3; 214
Vegas Line & Total: Golden State by 2 1/2; 208
Dunkel Pick: San Antonio (+2 1/2); Over




NBA
Short Sheet

Saturday, March 22

Portland at Charlotte, 7:05 ET
Portland: 2-11 ATS after scoring 110 points or more 2 straight games
Charlotte: 16-7 ATS revenging a loss vs opponent of 10 points or more

Houston at Cleveland, 7:35 ET
Houston: 12-3 ATS after failing to cover 4 or 5 of their last 6 against the spread
Cleveland: 8-20 ATS after a non-conference game

Indiana at Memphis, 8:05 ET
Indiana: 2-10 ATS in March games this
Memphis: 34-21 ATS when the line is +3 to -3

Miami at New Orleans, 8:05 ET
Miami: 15-26 ATS when playing their 3rd game in 4 days
New Orleans: 13-4 ATS after allowing 100 points or more 3 straight games

Philadelphia at Chicago, 8:05 ET
Philadelphia: 66-42 ATS as an underdog of 10 or more points
Chicago: 22-38 ATS as a home favorite

Orlando at Utah, 9:05 ET
Orlando: 10-21 ATS as a road underdog
Utah: 142-109 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less

Detroit at LA Clippers, 10:35 ET
Detroit: 38-53 ATS revenging a loss vs opponent
LA Clippers: 7-0 ATS off an upset loss as a road favorite

San Antonio at Golden State, 10:35 ET
San Antonio: 8-19 ATS after allowing 85 points or less
Golden State: 11-2 ATS revenging a straight up loss vs opponent as a favorite

[Udog]

NCAAB
Short Sheet

Saturday, March 22

Connecticut at Villanova, 9:40 ET
Connecticut: 3-11 ATS in road games after a non-conference game
Villanova: 20-7 ATS as a favorite

Pittsburgh at Florida, 12:15 ET
Pittsburgh: 7-1 ATS after having won 3 of their last 4 games
Florida: 19-9 UNDER in all games

St Louis at Louisiville, 2:45 ET
St Louis: 10-19 ATS in all games
Louisiville: 20-7 ATS in all neutral court games

Oregon at Wisconsin, 7:45 ET
Oregon: 6-15 ATS after having won 8 or more of their last 10 games
Wisconsin: 119-87 ATS after a non-conference game

Texas at Michigan, 5:15 ET
Texas: 27-10 OVER in a neutral court game where the total is 140 to 149.5
Michigan: 21-10 OVER in road games after 1 or more consecutive wins

Harvard at Michigan State, 8:40 ET
Harvard: 8-2 ATS on Saturday games
Michigan State: 31-50 ATS after covering 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread

North Dakota State at San Diego State, 6:10 ET
North Dakota St: 2-8 ATS after scoring 80 points or more
San Diego St: 12-5 ATS in road games after 1 or more consecutive wins

Louisiana Tech at Georgia, 11:00 AM ET
Louisiana Tech: 21-7 UNDER in a road game where the total is 140 to 149.5
Georgia: 21-8 UNDER in all games

IPFW at VMI, 1:00 ET
IPFW: 18-9 ATS in road games
VMI: 4-17 ATS after covering 2 of their last 3 against the spread

Wright State at Ohio, 2:00 ET
Wright St: 77-51 ATS after having won 3 of their last 4 games
Ohio: 0-7 ATS in home games after a game where they covered the spread

Yale at Holy Cross, 7:00 ET
Yale: 30-16 ATS in road games after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games
Holy Cross: n/a

Eastern Michigan at Columbia, 7:00 ET
E Michigan: 15-5 ATS when the line is +3 to -3
Columbia: 10-21 ATS after a game where they covered the spread

San Diego at Sam Houston St, 7:00 ET
San Diego: 1-7 ATS off a home win
Sam Houston St: n/a

Texas A&M Corpus at Pacific, 9:00 ET
Texas A&M: n/a
Pacific: 10-3 ATS on Saturday games

[Udog]

NHL
Short Sheet

Saturday, March 22

Tampa Bay at Pittsburgh, 1:05 ET
Tampa Bay: 11-5 SU in road games when playing their 4th game in 7 days
Pittsburgh: 8-1 SU line versus TAMPA BAY

St Louis at Philadelphia, 1:05 ET
St Louis: 45-18 SU as a favorite
Philadelphia: 65-59 SU after a 4 game unbeaten streak

Detroit at Minnesota, 2:05 ET
Detroit: 6-14 SU after scoring 4 goals or more in their previous game
Minnesota: 11-2 SU in home games after a non-conference game

Ottawa at Dallas, 3:05 ET
Ottawa: 22-11 SU after failing to cover 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread
Dallas: 7-1 SU in home games after allowing 3 goals or more 2 straight games

Florida at LA Kings, 4:05 ET
Florida: 7-3 SU revenging a home loss versus opponent of 2 goals or more
LA Kings: 2-9 SU in home games off a close home win by 1 goal

Montreal at Toronto, 7:05 ET
Montreal: 79-61 SU off a close home loss by 1 goal
Toronto: 31-40 SU in home games after a home game where both teams score 3 or more goals

Carolina at Winnipeg, 7:05 ET
Carolina: 4-20 SU in road games when playing on back-to-back days
Winnipeg: 15-10 SU after allowing 4 goals or more

NY Rangers at New Jersey, 7:05 ET
NY Rangers: 20-13 SU in road games
New Jersey: 9-2 SU revenging a loss vs opponent as a home favorite

Boston at Phoenix, 9:05 ET
Boston: 44-16 SU as a favorite
Phoenix: 13-21 SU after playing a home game

Calgary at Edmonton, 10:05 ET
Calgary: 6-2 SU in road games off a home loss
Edmonton: 4-16 SU vs. division opponents

Washington at San Jose, 10:35 ET
Washington: 10-21 SU when playing their 4th game in 7 days
San Jose: 11-1 SU in home games off a win against a division rival

[Udog]

Johnson still favored despite slow start

Jimmie Johnson has been favored to win every Sprint Cup race so far this season and the Auto Club 400 is no different. Despite Johnson not finishing a race higher than fifth place this season, he is a 5/1 favorite to take the checkered flag in Fontana.

Here is a complete list of odds for the field in Sunday's race (Odds courtesy of LVH Superbooks):

Jimmie Johnson 5/1
Kevin Harvick 5/1
Matt Kenseth 6/1
Kyle Busch 7/1
Jeff Gordon 7/1
Brad Keselowski 12/1
Dale Earnhardt Jr. 12/1
Kasey Kahne 15/1
Carl Edwards 15/1
Clint Bowyer 15/1
Tony Stewart 20/1
Brain Vickers 20/1
Joey Logano 30/1
Ryan Newman 30/1
Kurt Busch 30/1
Greg Biffle 35/1