Announcement

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 12:59 PM

Buying Giants, Colts
September 1, 2016

Football season is almost officially here now that we've arrived in September, and the excitement for the upcoming NFL season is exploding across the country.

Bettors are coming to the end of breaking down which teams they believe will have a chance to go all the way this season and as long as some of those significant preseason injuries we've already seen (Tony Romo, Teddy Bridgewater) haven't hurt those clubs, it's tough talking people off of who they firmly believe will be a strong franchise in 2016.

Well, Sportsbook.ag has offered odds on all 32 teams chances to just make the playoffs this season, and while there are your typical favorites like New England, Carolina, Seattle, and Green Bay all laying significant juice to do so, there are some teams that some may not have considered.

After all, we typically see about half of the 12 teams that made the playoffs a year ago miss out the next season, so there is some money to be made on a prop bet like this.

Playoff Bet #1: The New York Giants will make the playoffs: +110

The Giants were already expected to battle it out with Dallas for the NFC East crown this year and that was before Tony Romo was lost for the first month or so of the year. Now with Romo out, the Giants can seemingly take control of the division with a strong start to the year and there aren't too many reasons to believe why they wouldn't be able too.

New head coach Ben McAdoo was promoted from within the organization and it's been his offensive system that's been in place for Eli Manning and company the past few years.

We should see plenty of scoring from the Giants this year, and after last year's struggles closing out games in the 4th quarter, there is no doubt that New York has made “finishing” a priority coming into 2016.

Defensively is where the Giants will likely make or break this bet, but that's also another area I expect New York to turn it around this season.

By no means will the Giants likely be a Top-3 defense in the league, but they'll make sure they do enough to secure victories and not blow leads like they did in 2015.

Even if there are some slip ups for this team, the NFC is so top-heavy overall that New York might not need to even win the NFC East to cash this wager as we could very well see two NFC East teams in the playoffs for the first time in a few years.

Playoff Bet #2: The Indianapolis Colts will make the playoffs: -115

This is not a plus-money payout like the Giants wager is, but the situation is similar for the Colts as they've got a great chance to win their division and claim a top-four seed.

Head coach Chuck Pagano comes into the season on a bit of a hot seat after a disappointing, injury-riddled 2015 campaign, and we've already heard about the numerous concerns the Colts offensive line has had in the preseason.

It was poor O-line play from Indy a year ago that ultimately got QB Andrew Luck hurt and killed any chance the Colts had of making the postseason.

However, 2016 will be different in that regard as this was an organization that was on a great upward trajectory prior to 2015, making the playoffs and going deeper each time a few years ago.

QB Andrew Luck is still one of the better QB's we've got in this league when he stays healthy, and while the rest of the AFC South has improved, this Colts team has something to prove this season. It will start with a division title and from there, who knows.

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:00 PM

Books ready for Week 1
September 1, 2016

The first week of NFL action is always an exciting one, and not just because we get to watch football again, it’s because of all of the other ancillary perks that come with it.

Gambling, ah one of life’s simple pleasures. Whether you are a $10 bettor, or risking enough to make a loss sting a bit, the thrill of putting something on the line and watching the your favorite San Diego Chargers, or Chicago Bears, take the field and fight for your bet is rarely matched by life’s day to day experiences.

Not surprisingly, to this point the most bet on Week 1 game at GTBETS.EU is the Thursday night game between the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos.

The Panthers fell short in Super Bowl 50 against the Broncos, but Peyton Manning is now gone, and the Panthers are looking strong. GTBETS has the Panthers as three-point road favorites, and so far 4-1 bets are on Carolina against the spread.

Has fantasy football not taken over your life yet?

Well if not, you are in the minority, as about 57 million people in North America participated in fantasy football last year.

Just about every demographic you can imagine is locked into a fantasy squad, even people who don’t like football. There are unlimited places to join free leagues, but the real fun comes in when playing with friends, as we all know, there is nothing more enjoyable that talking smack and taking a little cash off of your buddies.

Daily Fantasy has had a rough off-season legally in some states, and on top of that, has been criticized for being more or less a lottery, where only professionals and computer algorithms can beat the odds. GTBETS.EU offers a different way to bet fantasy football with weekly player match-ups.

Using the default ESPN fantasy scoring format, they post lines for match-ups between players.

For example, in week 1, Adrian Peterson might be a two point favorite over Ezekiel Elliott. Betting these spreads works the same as your standard NFL bets ATS, with a typical -110 juice on each bet.

Hot Wings – Ribs – Bean Dip – Nachos – Heroes and More! Football = great food to many of us, and as the Starks say in Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming”, so most of us don’t mind packing on a few extra pounds to keep warm.

We will take pleasure in our football, gambling, fantasy, and food all season long! Welcome back football, and thank you for everything that you do for us!

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:02 PM

NFC Division Underdog Bets
August 29, 2016

NFL future bets at Sportsbook.ag are seeing more and more action each day as the season draws closer, as bettors are touching on anything and everything they believe provides value. Whether it's season win totals, individual awards/stats prop bets, or what team will make it to the Super Bowl, bettors are not afraid to invest their bankrolls long term right now.

Yet, before we get to the Super Bowl, or even the playoffs, we've got to have division winners and that's what I'll be looking at in the NFC today.

Sportsbook.ag NFC Division Winners Odds

Three of the four NFC divisions have relatively heavily favored teams to end up on top as Green Bay (-180), Carolina (-250), and Seattle (-120) are all having bettors lay chalk to back them. But it's tough to believe those three teams will go three-for-three for chalk lovers in 2016, considering only one of the three (Carolina) won their respective division in 2015. The Panthers are likely the best option of the bunch to get it done again this year, but if you are already eyeing Green Bay and Seattle's division rivals to get ahead of those two teams this year, you will be able to find some value.

Minnesota Vikings to win the NFC North at +200

The perception of this Vikings team is that they had a lot of things go right for them in 2015 and rode that momentum to a division title. They had the league's best rusher in a 30-year-old Adrian Peterson and that's not likely to duplicate itself this year. There are still some questions about Bridgewater's ability to carry this team offensively, and nearly everyone around them in the NFC North got better.

But at 2-1 to repeat as division champions, I believe you are getting tremendous value on a team that's likely to finish with double digit victories once again. Minnesota's defense is going to be one of the best in the league again, and Bridgewater should be more than capable of having more responsibility on his plate. He's got plenty of talented young weapons on the outside to get the ball too again this year, and even if Peterson and the Vikings game takes a step back, it won't be a big one.

Arizona Cardinals to win the NFC West at +140

The Cardinals are looking to defend their division crown from a year ago like the Vikings are and at +140 there is quite a bit of value in seeing that happen. As long as QB Carson Palmer can remain healthy for the entire season again, Arizona could end up being the best team in football this year. They've got depth and talent on both sides of the ball and showed many people a year ago that the were built to win for the long haul and should be considered as legit Super Bowl Contenders for the next few seasons.

Seattle has a talented and deep team themselves, but the aura of the Seahawks being unbeatable at home after a 5-3 SU record last year is gone and they don't quite have the consistent deep threats that Arizona does. Seattle could also be considered as a franchise on the way out of their “championship window,” while the Cardinals are still in the midst of theirs.

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:10 PM

Carson Wentz named starter for the Eagles
September 5, 2016

PHILADELPHIA (AP) Rookie Carson Wentz will start for the Philadelphia Eagles against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.

Coach Doug Pederson made the announcement Monday, two days after the Eagles traded Sam Bradford to the Vikings for a 2017 first-round pick and a 2018 conditional fourth-round pick.

Wentz missed the last three preseason games after injuring his ribs in the opener. The Eagles traded up twice in the draft to select Wentz at No. 2 overall.

Chase Daniel will be the backup. Daniel signed a three-year, $21 million contract in the offseason to play behind Bradford and mentor Wentz.

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Bears release Gould, sign three-time Pro Bowl guard Sitton
September 5, 2016

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) The Chicago Bears released Robbie Gould, ending an 11-year run with the most accurate kicker in franchise history, and upgraded their offensive line by signing three-time Pro Bowl guard Josh Sitton to a three-year deal Sunday night.

With Gould gone and Sitton in place, the Bears figure to have a different look when they open the season against Houston on Sept. 11.

Gould had quite a run in Chicago after going undrafted out of Penn State in 2005. He was working in construction when he signed with the Bears early that season after being released by New England and Baltimore.

Gould helped the 2006 team reach the Super Bowl and became the Bears' all-time leader in field-goal percentage (85.4 percent) and points (1,207). He also holds club records for field goals made (276), field goals made of 50 yards or more (23), field goals made in a season (33 in 2015) and longest field goal made (58-yards in 2013).

Gould had a rough stretch last season after making his first 15 field-goal attempts, though he wound up converting 84.6 percent. He made 5 of 6 field goals in the preseason but missed two extra points in the final exhibition against Cleveland. And with two years remaining on his contract, the Bears are parting ways and will need to bring in another kicker.

The 30-year-old Sitton was a surprise cut by Green Bay on Saturday. He had started 112 of 121 regular-season games since being drafted in the fourth round in 2008 out of Central Florida. He was one of the leaders on a front five that protects quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The signing of Sitton should bring a smile to quarterback Jay Cutler. He will have two star guards protecting him with three-time Pro Bowl lineman Kyle Long on the right side and Sitton at left guard.

The Bears can now go with either veteran Ted Larsen at center or rookie Cody Whitehair, who took some snaps there but worked mainly at left guard in the preseason.

The Bears also signed tight end Logan Paulsen and claimed center Eric Kush and cornerback Cre'von LeBlanc off waivers on Sunday.

Offensive lineman Cornelius Edison, defensive back Demontre Hurst and tight end Khari Lee were waived to make room on the roster.

Paulsen played in 75 games for Washington over five seasons, finishing with 79 receptions for 801 yards and six touchdowns. But he missed last year with an injury and was released on Saturday.

Kush also was cut Saturday after appearing in seven games with the Rams last season. LeBlanc, an undrafted rookie out of Florida Atlantic, played 141 snaps and had an interception for New England during the preseason, but was released by the Patriots over the weekend.

The Bears signed six players to their practice squad, including former Harvard tight end Ben Braunecker and wide receiver Daniel Braverman, a seventh-round pick in this year's draft out of Western Michigan.

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Bears claim C Eric Kush, CB Cre'von LeBlanc off waivers
September 4, 2016

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) The Chicago Bears have signed tight end Logan Paulsen and claimed center Eric Kush and cornerback Cre'von LeBlanc off waivers.

Offensive lineman Cornelius Edison, defensive back Demontre Hurst and tight end Khari Lee were waived on Sunday to make room on the roster.

Paulsen played in 75 games for Washington over five seasons, finishing with 79 receptions for 801 yards and six touchdowns. But he missed last year with an injury and was released on Saturday.

Kush also was cut Saturday after appearing in seven games with the Rams last season. LeBlanc, an undrafted rookie out of Florida Atlantic, played 141 snaps and had an interception for New England during the preseason, but was released by the Patriots over the weekend.

The Bears also signed six players to their practice squad, including former Harvard tight end Ben Braunecker and wide receiver Daniel Braverman, a seventh-round pick in this year's draft out of Western Michigan.

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Ravens agree on 1-year deal with Hester
September 4, 2016

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) The Baltimore Ravens and kick returner Devin Hester have reached agreement on a one-year contract.

Over a 10-year career Hester has returned 20 kicks for touchdowns, the most in NFL history. Selected to four Pro Bowls, the 33-year-old has played in 144 games with Chicago and Atlanta.

The Ravens spent much of the preseason trying to find a punt returner. Michael Campanaro and Kennan Reynolds were among those who took back kicks, with unspectacular results.

Hester has scored an NFL-record 14 touchdowns on punt returns. He's also returned five kickoffs for TDs and scored on a 108-yard missed field goal attempt.

Originally drafted by Chicago out of Miami of Florida in the second round, Hester was named to the Pro Bowl in 2006, 2007, 2010 and 2014.

Also Sunday, the Ravens signed Reynolds and seven other players to the practice squad.

After scoring an NCAA-record 88 rushing touchdowns as Navy's quarterback, Reynolds was drafted in the sixth round of the 2016 draft by Baltimore. His bid to make the squad as a receiver and punt returner was short-circuited when he was cut on Saturday, but now he can hone his skills while practicing with the team.

Others signed to the practice squad: defensive end Kapron Lewis-Moore; linebackers Brennen Beyer and Patrick Onwuassor; running back Stephen Houston; center Matt Skura; offensive tackle Blaine Causell; and tight end Daniel Brown.

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These aren't the same Broncos who won it all
September 4, 2016

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian will throw his first pass as a pro Thursday night when the Super Bowl champs kick off the 2016 season against the Carolina Panthers.

Despite his inexperience, he'll have the full playbook at his disposal.

''He can carry a lot of information in a short period of time,'' coach Gary Kubiak said Sunday. ''Let me explain: he can go in that meeting room for two hours in the morning, walk out here at 11:30 and take it to the field. You can't teach that. Guys can handle it or they can't.

''So, he's handling a lot of information, handling the team, practiced well today. We need to help Trevor all we can but I know Trevor's ready to do his part.''

Siemian isn't the only new face in Denver's starting lineup.

Peyton Manning and five other offensive starters from the Broncos' 24-10 win over Carolina in Super Bowl 50 are no longer on the roster, a radical makeover for a champion. Neither is Brock Osweiler, who bolted to the Texans in free agency.

The only players returning to their same spots on offense are center a href(equals)'http://pro32.ap.org/article/broncos-center-matt-paradis-signs-his-tender'Matt Paradis/a, running back a href(equals)'http://pro32.ap.org/article/broncos-cj-anderson-not-bothered-bold-devontae-booker'C.J. Anderson/a and receivers a href(equals)'http://pro32.ap.org/article/emmanuel-sanders-wont-put-15-his-rearview'Emmanuel Sanders/a and a href(equals)'Broncos'%20Demaryius%20Thomas%20looks %20for%20a%20bounce-back%20season'Demaryius Thomas/a. Another, Michael Schofield, lost his right tackle job to free agent Donald Stephenson but will start at right guard because of injuries to Ty Sambrailo (elbow) and Darrion Weems (concussion).

Two years after revamping his defense in the rubble of Seattle's Super Bowl demolition of Denver, GM John Elway rebuilt his offense in the wake of his team's triumph.

While Elway spent months searching for Manning's successor this offseason, only to find him already on the roster, the Broncos' boss jettisoned both tight ends and three O-linemen who started in the Super Bowl.

Vernon Davis and Owen Daniels were replaced by Virgil Green and free agent John Phillips.

Ryan Harris, Lou Vasquez and Evan Mathis are no longer protecting the passer, replaced by Russell Okung, Max Garcia and Stephenson.

Elway also released Ronnie Hillman, the team's leading rusher last season but a non-factor in the Super Bowl, where Anderson rumbled for 90 yards and Denver's only offensive touchdown following Von Miller's second sack-strip of Cam Newton.

Elway said he believes the offense can carry more of its weight this year after relying so heavily on Denver's destructive defense to bring home the franchise's third Lombardi Trophy.

''I'm excited about offense,'' Elway said. ''We're better in the offensive line, especially as we get healthier. Running back, I think we're deeper at running back. Our receivers are still good. I think we have a chance to be better offensively with a good balanced attack and have Trevor come in, play well and do the things that he can do.''

Last year, the Broncos put their 39-year-old QB in the pistol or shotgun, which limited their ground game and play-action possibilities. Now, they're back to the run-heavy approach that Kubiak has employed most of his career, one that features roll-outs, bootlegs, sprint-outs and plenty of hand-offs.

''We've got a lot more things that we can do with the running game now,'' Elway said. ''We've got a fullback that can really play in (Andy) Janovich and who does a great job. It gives us a lot of different options.''

Elway suggested this new offense will take some pressure off Miller & Co.

''It gives us a better chance to be better on defense,'' Elway said, ''because if we can stay on the field and pick up some third downs and keep those guys rested on the defensive side, we've got a chance to be better there, too.''

The biggest change is Siemian under center. The former Northwestern QB beat out Mark Sanchez with steadiness and spunk.

''I'm not trying to be Peyton,'' Siemian said. ''I could probably get in a lot of trouble trying to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer.''

Elway said Siemian has the right mental makeup to succeed Manning: ''He handles the huddle very well. The guys like him, they respect him and believe in him.''

Siemian served as the Broncos' No. 2 QB for the seven weeks Osweiler started while Manning was sidelined in 2015.

''Trevor has a chance to be successful because even though he's essentially a rookie as far as play time, he's got the feel and knows what it's all about,'' Elway said. ''That experience he had last year is going to help him tremendously this year.''

Notes: Thomas (offense), DeMarcus Ware (defense) and CB Kayvon Webster (special teams) were elected captains. ... Third-year RB Juwan Thompson signed with the Broncos practice squad a day after getting cut.

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:25 PM

Panthers Newton: I took Super Bowl loss 'extremely personal'
September 4, 2016

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) The jovial, fun-loving and wide-smiling Cam Newton was nowhere to be found Sunday.

The NFL Most Valuable Player instead took on a serious tone talking about Thursday night's regular season opener, a Super Bowl rematch with the Denver Broncos.

''No one likes losing, so I took it extremely personal,'' Newton said about the Carolina's 24-10 loss to the Broncos in the title game.

Newton had a league-high 45 combined touchdowns in a memorable 2015 regular season and added five more in the NFC playoffs. But he never got a chance to ''dab'' on the game's biggest stage with running back Jonathan Stewart scoring Carolina's only touchdown.

Simply put, Denver's defense dominated.

Newton's 60 minutes of frustration on the field spilled over to his post-game interview where he answered questions with terse, short answers while slumped behind a podium with a hoodie covering most of his face. After three minutes he abruptly got up and walked off, drawing the ire of some other athletes who criticized his antics.

Two days later, upon returning to Charlotte, Newton defended his actions saying ''I've been on the record saying that I'm a sore loser. Who likes to lose? You show me a good loser and I'm going to show you a loser. It's not a popularity contest. I am here to win football games.''

Newton has since backed away - at least some - from that stance.

With time to reflect he told Ebony magazine this offseason that he let down friends and family.

He hasn't talked much about the Super Bowl loss or his post-game press conference since, avoiding most questions related to the game by spinning them toward the upcoming season.

That approach continued on Sunday.

''A lot of people want to make it a rematch. It's not a rematch,'' Newton said. ''It's just our next opponent.''

It's been seven months now since the devastating defeat, and Panthers coach Ron Rivera believes his quarterback's mind is in a good place.

''I think his game is right where it needs to be,'' Rivera said. ''He's focused in on this game. He's focused in on the 2016 season. As I told the players, the most important thing we do is get ready for this game.''

Newton wouldn't say if he's watched the Super Bowl.

But he believes the Panthers will be better prepared to handle Von Miller and Denver pass rush this time around.

The Broncos sacked Newton six times in the Super Bowl, two of those resulting in turnovers leading to 14 Denver points. Newton finished 18 of 41 for 265 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

''Our preparation will be different, and we will be locked and loaded and ready to go Thursday,'' Newton said.

Newton spent much of his offseason adjusting to becoming a father and working on a Nickelodeon TV show for kids called ''All In With Cam Newton.''

But escaping the Super Bowl loss wasn't easy.

When he posted a picture of himself playing water polo with the U.S. National team on his Instagram account this offseason, Miller photo-shopped himself in sacking Newton in the pool. Miller said did it only because he has immense respect for Newton, whom he called ''the best player in the league.''

Rivera isn't thrilled the Panthers open the season on a Thursday night against Miller and company in Denver.

''Defending NFC champs, it would have been nice to open the season at home, but it didn't happen that way,'' Rivera said Sunday.

He knows it will be a huge challenge for his team playing on the road against the team that has a huge ceremony planned to recognize its Super Bowl win. Even Peyton Manning plans be there.

With all of the emotion surrounding the game, Rivera said it will be ''interesting to see'' how Newton performs.

''He knows this is the big stage,'' Rivera said. ''It's probably one of the biggest stages we will be on as a football team. He has an opportunity to play well and go out and show what he's made of.''

If the sixth-year quarterback views this as a revenge game, he's not saying it.

When asked if beating the Broncos would take the sting out of losing the Super Bowl, Newton simply shook his head.

''No,'' he said. ''We'd just be 1-0.''

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Watt will return to practice Monday
September 4, 2016

HOUSTON (AP) J.J. Watt passed his physical on Sunday and will return to practice on Monday, a good sign that he'll be ready for Houston's opener against Chicago on Sept. 11.

Watt missed all of training camp and the Texans' four preseason games after surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back in July.

The Texans activated him from the physically unable to perform list on Saturday before Sunday's announcement that he passed his physical.

Watt, the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year in three of the past four seasons, hasn't missed a game in his five-year career.

The defensive end also sat out the entire preseason in 2012 because of an elbow injury and was able to return for the season opener.

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Cowboys sign QB Mark Sanchez
September 4, 2016

FRISCO, Texas (AP) The Cowboys signed Mark Sanchez and waived Jameill Showers on Sunday in a swap of backup quarterbacks behind rookie starter Dak Prescott.

Dallas had to make room on the 53-man roster for Sanchez after signing the six-year veteran to a one-year contract. Tony Romo remained on the active roster amid uncertainly on how long he will be out with a broken bone in his back sustained in a preseason game.

If the Cowboys place Romo on the injured reserve-return list, he will miss the first seven games. If not, he can return sooner.

Prescott had a strong start to the preseason after Kellen Moore broke his right ankle in practice at training camp, and the Cowboys ultimately decided to give their fourth-round pick the backup job.

After holding off on adding a veteran following Moore's injury, the Cowboys knew they would have to add one once Romo got hurt.

Showers is likely headed to the practice squad for the second straight year. He was spotty while playing the entire preseason finale against Houston, hurting his chances of getting claimed by another team.

Tight end Rico Gathers, the former Baylor basketball player trying to make the transition to football, was among seven players added the practice squad.

Defensive end Ryan Russell, receiver Vince Mayle were the second-year players that made it to the practice squad along with four rookies: center Jake Brendel, receiver Andy Jones, linebacker Deon King and tight end Austin Traylor.

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Jets claim 4 off waivers; cut Robinson, McDougle
September 4, 2016

NEW YORK (AP) The New York Jets have claimed four players off waivers, including tight ends Braedon Bowman from Jacksonville and Brian Parker from Kansas City.

A day after setting its initial 53-man roster, New York also was awarded running back Troymaine Pope from Seattle and cornerback Darryl Roberts from New England on Sunday.

To make room, the Jets waived/injured running back Khiry Robinson, who was hurt in the preseason finale last Thursday at Philadelphia. They also waived cornerback Dexter McDougle, a third-round draft pick in 2014; safety Ronald Martin; and running back Dominique Williams.

New York also filled seven of its 10 practice squad spots, signing linebackers Freddie Bishop and Victor Oshi; cornerback Bryson Keeton; safety Doug Middleton; defensive lineman Claude Pelon; guard Craig Watts; and wide receiver Myles White.

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Bengals claim quarterback Jeff Driskel
September 4, 2016

CINCINNATI (AP) The Bengals claimed rookie Jeff Driskel off waivers from San Francisco on Sunday, giving them a No. 3 quarterback.

Driskel, from Louisiana Tech, played in four preseason games for the 49ers and went 15 of 31 for 132 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. He started 13 games at Louisiana Tech last season, throwing for 4,033 yards with 27 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

The move came a day after the Bengals waived Keith Wenning, who was their third-string quarterback last season behind Andy Dalton and AJ McCarron.

Cincinnati also waived linebacker P.J. Dawson, who played in 11 games as a rookie last season.

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Seattle claims DT Garrison Smith off waivers from 49ers
September 4, 2016

RENTON, Wash. (AP) The Seattle Seahawks have claimed defensive tackle Garrison Smith off waivers.

Seattle made the move on Sunday, according to the NFL transaction report. The team did not announce a corresponding move to get Smith on to the 53-man roster.

Smith spent the preseason with San Francisco and played well for the 49ers with 15 tackles and four sacks. He was on the 49ers' practice squad but has not appeared in a regular-season game in his two years in the league.

Seattle's initial 53-man roster Saturday listed four defensive tackles.

The Seahawks also had four players clear waivers and revert to injured reserve: defensive tackle Jordan Hill, linebacker Eric Pinkins, offensive lineman Terry Poole and tight end Joe Sommers.

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Jaguars claim Ravens LB Brown, Titans S Huff off waivers
September 4, 2016

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) The Jacksonville Jaguars have claimed linebacker Arthur Brown off waivers from Baltimore and safety Marqueston Huff off waivers from Tennessee.

The Jaguars released running back Joe Banyard on Sunday to make room for Brown on the roster. Huff, suspended one game without pay for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, will begin the season on the suspended list and won't count against the 53-man limit.

Brown had 17 tackles in three seasons with the Ravens. A second-round draft pick from Kansas State in 2013, Brown played in 16 games last season and had two tackles.

Huff played two seasons with the Titans, totaling 33 tackles, four passes defensed and one interception. A fourth-round selection from Wyoming, Huff played collegiately alongside Jaguars starting safety Tashaun Gipson for two seasons.

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Colts add 2 players to roster, sign 9 to practice squad
September 4, 2016

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) The Indianapolis Colts finalized their roster Sunday by claiming safety Matthias Farley and cornerback Neiko Thorpe off waivers and signing nine players to their practice squad.

Farley, an undrafted rookie, was cut Saturday by Arizona. Thorpe played in 37 games with Kansas City and Oakland, but was cut Saturday by the Raiders.

To clear space on the active roster, Indy released cornerback Jalil Brown and tight end Chase Coffman.

The Colts signed defensive end Sterling Bailey, inside linebacker Trevor Bates, safety Lee Hightower, tight end Mike Miller, cornerback Christopher Milton, defensive tackle Kelcy Quarles, offensive linemen Adam Redmond and Jeremy Vujnovich and receiver Tevaun Smith to the practice squad.

Indy opens the season Sunday against Detroit.

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Titans sign 9 players to practice squad
September 4, 2016

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) The Tennessee Titans have signed nine players to their practice squad.

The Titans announced Sunday that they had signed tight end Jerome Cunningham, running back David Fluellen, offensive tackle Tyler Marz, center Ronald Patrick, cornerback Kalan Reed, defensive back Curtis Riley, wide receiver Ben Roberts, linebacker Justin Staples and nose tackle Antwuan Woods to their practice squad.

All nine players were with the Titans during training camp.

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Redskins' Cavanaugh is an accomplished quarterback whisperer
September 4, 2016

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) When the Washington Redskins navigated the difficult process of replacing Robert Griffin III with Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback a year ago, Matt Cavanaugh was the man in the middle of it.

Griffin, Cousins and veteran Colt McCoy all wanted to start. Only one could, so Cavanaugh had heart-to-heart conversations about the situation.

Cousins threw for 4,166 yards and 26 touchdowns and led the Redskins to the NFC East title. Afterward, McCoy called Cavanaugh the team MVP for his stability and oversight.

''His ability to be the voice in our room, to take away the distractions, the things that went on and all that and for him to help Kirk the way that he did and silence a lot of things that could've got out or went wrong, Cav did a great job,'' McCoy said. ''Cav really deserves a lot of credit for the way Kirk played and the way that our room was handled throughout the year.''

Cavanaugh played 13 seasons in the NFL and has coached at the pro and college levels for more than two decades. After helping Cousins establish himself, Cavanaugh goes into his second season as Redskins quarterbacks coach with a very different challenge.

In Cousins the unquestioned starter, McCoy the entrenched backup and rookie Nate Sudfeld the long-term project, Cavanaugh must tailor his message to three very different quarterbacks. That's pretty much a wheelhouse for Cavanaugh, who has made a career of being a quarterback whisperer.

''He played with Hall of Famers, played in multiple organizations, won Super Bowls,'' Cousins said. ''He's coached Pro Bowlers, he's coached Hall of Famers and he knows what it looks like.''

Cavanaugh was offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl-winning Baltimore Ravens in 2000 with Trent Dilfer, and he coached Steve Young with the San Francisco 49ers in 1996. Dealing with the Griffin-Cousins-McCoy quarterback triangle was just another chapter.

''I've been in those positions personally, so for me it wasn't a huge deal,'' Cavanaugh said. ''Maybe they relied on me at times because they know that I did play and that I probably experienced what they're going through and it was easier to relate some situations that I had.''

It's that same experience that makes Cavanaugh qualified to help Cousins prove he deserves a long-term deal, keep McCoy prepared on a moment's notice and coach up Sudfeld for the years ahead. Cavanaugh can pull from his time as a New England Patriots rookie and young starter and as Joe Montana's backup.

Cousins developed into a leader as the franchise quarterback at 28, and his ascent with a career year is thanks in part to Cavanaugh's tutelage.

''He's helped simplify the game for me coaching me through my reads and trying to reduce the amount of clutter in my head as I read a defense,'' Cousins said.

McCoy didn't start until a meaningless Week 17 game at Dallas last season, but he said Cavanaugh pushed him to stay sharp. Without practice snaps, McCoy leaned on Cavanaugh for details and philosophy.

That's what coach Jay Gruden and prodigious offensive coordinator Sean McVay count on Cavanaugh for.

''I can't say enough about him, what a great job he's done as far as leading that room, giving those guys a plan, helping develop the fundamentals and the mechanics of what we're trying to get done at that position,'' McVay said.

Already, Cavanaugh has devoted a lot of his time to Sudfeld, a sixth-round pick out of Indiana who has prototypical size but is raw at age 22. Sudfeld glowed about Cavanaugh months ago at rookie minicamp and has picked up a tremendous appreciation for the 59-year-old journeyman coach.

''He was very successful as a player so he automatically has that credibility and he can really relate to us,'' Sudfeld said. ''There's some things where he's like, `I know how it's difficult, you've just got to work through it on a certain read or a throw.' It's really good to have that insight.''

Cavanaugh has been coaching since joining his alma mater, Pittsburgh, in 1992, yet he still feels like a developmental prospect. On a quarterback-friendly staff, the Youngstown, Ohio, native considers himself a student.

''I don't care how long you've been doing it, I've been doing it for a while - you come in and you feel a little behind,'' Cavanaugh said. ''You're not quite sure of how everything's supposed to sound and you're trying to visualize a play when it's called and in a split-second have an answer for the quarterback when he makes a decision. So I'm feeling more comfortable with that and I've got two great teachers in Jay and Sean, who know this system extremely well. I'm here to learn, too.''

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:41 PM

Giants waive linebacker Brinkley, sign quarterback Johnson
September 5, 2016

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) The New York Giants have signed veteran quarterback Josh Johnson and terminated the contract of middle linebacker Jasper Brinkley.

The Giants announced the moves Monday as they began preparing for the season opener against Dallas.

The signing of Johnson gives New York three quarterbacks for the first time since 2013. He joins Eli Manning and backup Ryan Nassib.

Johnson is a seven-year veteran who has previously been with eight teams, throwing a total of 177 regular-season passes, the last in December 2011.

Brinkley played in 15 games last season, starting nine. His 66 tackles were No. 3 on the team. He also had a sack, four forced fumbles and a recovery.

Brinkley was a contender to start until he hurt a knee and missed the final preseason game.

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Steelers place LB Bud Dupree on injured reserve
September 4, 2016

PITTSBURGH (AP) Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Bud Dupree will miss at least the first eight weeks of the season to deal with a lingering groin injury that sidelined him during training camp.

Dupree recorded four sacks during his rookie season in 2015 and shed 20 pounds in the offseason in hopes of adding quickness of the edge on the pass rush. Instead the Steelers will likely go with veteran Arthur Moats in the 2016 opener at Washington on Sept. 12.

Pittsburgh can designate Dupree as eligible to return at some point, but he is required to sit out at least eight weeks.

The Steelers signed veteran Steven Johnson to take Dupree's roster spot. Johnson was among the final cuts when Pittsburgh pared down to 53 players on Saturday.

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Rams make roster moves during their actual move to new home
September 4, 2016

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. (AP) Amid the usual rush of personnel moves on the final weekend before the NFL season, the Los Angeles Rams also are making their actual move into their new team headquarters.

Coach Jeff Fisher is balancing the shuffle of his 53-man roster with the latest change of address in the Rams' peripatetic season. They're settling into the modular buildings next to their brand-new practice fields in Thousand Oaks, 85 miles from training camp in Irvine and 45 miles from the Coliseum.

''We've had a really good couple of days here from the standpoint of moving in and getting settled, and then from the standpoint of making hard decisions on the roster,'' Fisher said Sunday. ''Everybody has worked really hard. We're all in the midst of unpacking boxes and getting ready to get back to it.''

The Rams made numerous cuts Saturday, but Fisher said the roster is far from set for next week's season opener. He expects changes to the 53-man lineup, along with Los Angeles' practice squad signings.

Perhaps the Rams' most surprising decision was the departure of linebacker Akeem Ayers, a Los Angeles native and UCLA product. Fisher indicated that the Rams are hoping they don't lose Ayers, whose contract was terminated.

''All of the decisions that we make are difficult, and some of the decisions that you make are not permanent,'' Fisher said. ''Akeem has played well for us. We've enjoyed having him. We're kind of hopeful that this is not the end between us and Akeem, I'll just say that.''

In Ayers' place, the Rams kept three rookie linebackers, including undrafted free agents Cory Littleton and Nic Grigsby. Los Angeles has only three safeties and five linebackers on its current roster along with Mark Barron, who plays a hybrid linebacker/safety role sometimes referred to as ''weak safety.''

While Fisher indicated those numbers will change in the next few days, he credited the rookie linebackers for their work.

''They showed improvement week after week after week,'' Fisher said. ''They also showed that they can be productive on special teams in practice, really since the rookie camps and OTAs. Pleased with their progress. They've got a ways to go, but we like where the future is with that group.''

The roster also included rookie receiver Nelson Spruce, the prolific Colorado pass-catcher who grew up a few minutes away in Westlake Village. Spruce, an undrafted free agent, survived the 53-man cut despite being limited to one preseason game by injury.

''Nelson did a lot of things well, in addition to the preseason game that he played in,'' Fisher said. ''He's healing up. We feel like he has a chance to contribute and make plays.''

The Rams will begin game preparations for their season opener with a walkthrough on Labor Day, but their moving process will continue for the next few days. After every challenge over the past eight months, Fisher is confident the Rams can handle unpacking a few more boxes.

''We're still looking for my clock, so there's a few things we haven't found yet, but we'll be up and rolling,'' Fisher said. ''As the players came through (Sunday) - it's their day off, mind you, but so many came through just to see it - they all said, `Wow, this is a lot better than I thought it was.' So they're excited about it. Once you get inside, in a lot of ways there's more space than what we had in St. Louis. There's a newness to it, and guys are excited about the field. It flows well. People worked really hard.''

NOTES: The Rams signed seven players to their practice squad: WR Paul McRoberts, DE Morgan Fox, DB Michael Jordan, OT Isaiah Battle, LB Brandon Chubb and RBs Aaron Green and Terrence Magee. .. Fisher said the Rams have made contact with Tre Mason's family, but still haven't spoken directly to the troubled running back. He was placed on a Did Not Report list in July when he didn't show up to training camp after numerous offseason legal troubles. ''The organization's position, including the league and the players' association, is to take care of him and help him to get the help that he needs to get through this life crisis that he's having,'' Fisher said.

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WR Hunter claimed by Dolphins, who waive WR Whalen
September 4, 2016

DAVIE, Fla. (AP) Receiver Justin Hunter has been claimed by the Miami Dolphins, who waived receiver Griff Whalen.

Hunter was a second-round draft pick in 2013 by the Tennessee Titans, and they waived him Friday. He started five games last year and had 22 receptions for 264 yards and one score.

With the roster moves Sunday by the Dolphins, they reunite Hunter with receivers coach Shawn Jefferson, who previously was an assistant coach at Tennessee. Hunter is one of six receivers on the Miami roster.

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Panthers claim DE Edwards off waivers; release DE Horton
September 4, 2016

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) The Panthers claimed defensive end Lavar Edwards off waivers from the Buffalo Bills and released defensive end Wes Horton on Sunday.

Edwards has had stints with Chicago, Dallas, Tennessee and Buffalo since coming into the league in 2013. He has played in 12 games with no sacks.

Horton had spent the last three seasons with the Panthers, playing in 41 games with 17 starts. He had 41 tackles and six sacks during that span.

The Panthers also named their 10-man practice squad on Sunday: running back Jalen Simmons, wide receiver Keyarris Garrett, tight end Beau Sandland, guard David Yankey, defensive end Larry Webster, defensive tackle Eric Crume, linebacker Brian Blechen, cornerback Zack Sanchez and safeties Marcus Ball and Travell Dixon.

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Bills claim fullback Vitale off waivers
September 4, 2016

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) The Buffalo Bills claimed fullback Dan Vitale off waivers on Sunday.

Vitale was waived by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday. He entered the NFL as a sixth-round pick this spring.

Vitale can line up as both a tight end and a fullback. As a senior, he led Northwestern in receiving with 33 catches for 355 yards and had four touchdowns.

To make room for Vitale, the Bills released reserve linebacker Jamari Lattimore.

The Bills also announced that wide receiver Dez Lewis and kicker Jordan Gay have been signed to the practice squad. Lewis made a push in the spring up the depth chart but struggled in the preseason. Gay was the team's kickoff specialist in 2014 and 2015.

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Packers release veteran guard Josh Sitton
September 4, 2016

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) The Green Bay Packers released three-time Pro Bowl guard Josh Sitton on Saturday, making an unexpected change on their offensive line.

The 30-year-old Sitton had started 112 of 121 regular-season games since being drafted in the fourth round in 2008 out of Central Florida. He was one of the leaders on a front five that protects quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The Packers' other notable cuts Saturday to get to the 53-man limit for the start of the season included former starting linebacker Sam Barrington and wide receiver Geronimo Allison, an undrafted free agent who drew praise from quarterback Aaron Rodgers during training camp.

Sitton played through injuries, including a torn ligament in his left big toe in 2014. But the Packers have financial decisions to make up front, with the contracts of left tackle David Bakhtiari and left guard T.J. Lang expiring after this season.

Sitton was entering the last year of a five-year, $33.75 million extension signed after the 2011 season. He was due to count $6.85 million against the cap this year.

''We want to thank Josh for his contributions during his time in Green Bay. He has been an important part of the success we have enjoyed on the field,'' general manager Ted Thompson said. ''While these decisions are never easy, this was done with a focus on what is best for the team and the growth of the offensive line.''

The Packers drafted two linemen this year, Jason Spriggs out of Indiana in the second round and Kyle Murphy in the sixth round out of Stanford.

JC Tretter has taken over at center with two-year starter Corey Linsley out with a hamstring injury.

The Packers placed Linsley on the reserve/physically unable to perform list, which will keep him from practicing and playing for at least the first six weeks of the season.

''Well, expectation of the offensive line, I think we clearly could have one of the best lines that we've had here,'' coach Mike McCarthy said recently. ''I think I've said that the last two years and frankly health is always important.''

Another veteran Packer, punter Tim Masthay, was released on Tuesday after the team claimed Jacob Schum off waivers from Tampa Bay. Masthay had been with Green Bay for six seasons.

The Packers also are without a long snapper after they released Rick Lovato, a first-year player who joined the team near the end of last season.

By letting go of Barrington, a fourth-year pro who started eight games in his career but missed most of last season with a foot injury, the Packers could be counting on a youthful tandem of Jake Ryan and Blake Martinez as their starting inside linebackers.

Green Bay selected Martinez in the fourth round of this year's draft out of Stanford.

Green Bay cut 17 players Saturday, including Brandon Ross, which leaves undrafted rookie Brandon Burks as the third running back behind Eddie Lacy and James Starks.

The Packers placed a pair of undrafted free agents, defensive tackle Tyler Kuder and center Kyle Steuck, on injured reserve.

Green Bay also moved defensive tackle Mike Pennel and cornerback Demetri Goodson to the reserve/suspended list. Both players will miss the first four games for violations of the NFL's drug policy.

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Eagles trade quarterback Sam Bradford to Vikings
September 3, 2016

PHILADELPHIA (AP) Sam Bradford was given the trade out of Philadelphia he wanted months ago, just eight days before the season opener.

The Minnesota Vikings found their emergency replacement for Teddy Bridgewater, paying a steep price while signaling anew they're in it to win it this year.

Bradford was sent to the Vikings on Saturday for a pair of draft picks, including a first-rounder in 2017.

''We felt this was a very rare and unique opportunity to add a quarterback of Sam's caliber,'' Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said, adding: ''We did not mortgage the future in my mind.''

After Bridgewater went down with a gruesome injury to his left knee in practice on Tuesday, Spielman initiated a marathon evaluation session that night of other potential options around the league. He publicly expressed confidence on Thursday in Shaun Hill to take over for Bridgewater, but the 15-year veteran Hill has only been a starter as an injury fill-in and has limited arm strength with which to stretch the field for Adrian Peterson and the rest of the offense.

So Bradford, whose career has been blemished by injuries since becoming the first overall pick in the 2010 draft by St. Louis, entered the picture. He is signed through 2017, which was a major reason for Minnesota's interest. After dislocating his knee, completely tearing the anterior cruciate ligament and sustaining other significant damage, Bridgewater will have a hard time making it back next season.

''I was a little surprised just because it wasn't on my radar, but I think that surprise quickly turned into excitement when I realized the opportunity I had ahead,'' said Bradford, who won the Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma but has never been to the playoffs in the NFL.

The Vikings also parted with a fourth-round draft pick in 2018 that can become a third-rounder or a second-rounder based on how they finish. Spielman touted the extra selections the Vikings have in the third and fourth rounds in 2017, an opportunity to move back into the first round if a particular player inspired them to do so.

The Eagles were 7-9 last season and would have been in a rebuilding mode in a division other than the diluted NFC East. The deal allows them to develop No. 2 overall draft pick Carson Wentz sooner than expected. Chase Daniel is the only other quarterback left on their roster. Wentz missed the last three preseason games because of broken ribs, but personnel chief Howie Roseman said the team is ''very confident'' about the recovery track he's been on.

Before the trade, the Eagles didn't have a first-round pick for 2017 when the draft will be held in Philadelphia. They dealt that one and others to move up for Wentz this spring.

''This was not part of the blueprint, but we have to take advantage of opportunities that are presented to us,'' Roseman said.

The Vikings, who finished 11-5 to win the NFC North last year, are more poised for a Super Bowl run now.

''We had to make a very difficult decision on what's going to give us the best chance to win,'' Spielman said, adding: ''I understand at times there's a premium you have to pay.''

Bradford, who was acquired by the Eagles in a trade with the Rams about 18 months ago, set franchise records last season with 346 completions and a 65 percent completion percentage. His 3,725 yards passing in 14 games was the fourth-most in Eagles history, thriving down the stretch in coach Chip Kelly's fast-paced scheme. Bradford then passed up free agency and signed a two-year, $36 million contract with $22 million guaranteed in March.

But the Eagles grabbed Wentz, and Bradford responded by skipping some voluntary offseason workouts. After a trade with Denver couldn't be worked out, Bradford returned as the starter and played well in the preseason in new coach Doug Pederson's offense.

Bradford will now play for his sixth offensive coordinator, Norv Turner, in seven seasons. The Vikings tight ends coach, though, is Pat Shurmur, who was Philadelphia's offensive coordinator in 2015 and Bradford's offensive coordinator in his rookie season with the Rams. Shurmur filled the Vikings in on all of Bradford's intangibles, another key to the deal, according to Spielman.

''If there's a good thing about learning a new offense every year, it's that I'm familiar with this process and how it goes I guess,'' Bradford said.

Bradford has played a full 16-game season only twice in six years. He tore the ACL in his left knee during training camp in 2014 with the Rams and was replaced, ironically, by Hill, who was one of the first people Bradford called after the trade. The Vikings sent a private jet to Bradford's home in Oklahoma, and he arrived at team headquarters late in the afternoon to begin cramming in as much knowledge of Turner's system as he can.

Hill will likely start the opener on Sept. 11 at Tennessee, though.

''That's not up to me. I'm going to come in and give it everything I have,'' Bradford said.

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Barth, McCain among final Saints cuts; Hoomanawanui on IR
September 3, 2016

METAIRIE, La. (AP) The New Orleans Saints placed tight end Michael Hoomanawanui on injured reserve and cut 21 players - including recently acquired offensive lineman Khalif Barnes and defensive end Chris McCain - to trim their roster to the regular season maximum of 53.

One of the moves made by Saturday's deadline was the release of kicker Connor Barth, meaning Kai Forbath will retain the job he took over during last season.

Hoomanawanui, one of New Orleans' top blocking tight ends, has been sidelined since going down with an undisclosed injury in New Orleans' third preseason game.

McCain was acquired Monday in a trade that sent a conditional seventh-round pick to Miami. The Saints will now retain that pick. Barnes was acquired the same day as a free agent.

Also cut were: defensive tackle Bobby Richardson; defensive ends Darryl Tapp, Davis Tull and C.J. Wilson; linebacker Jeff Schoettmer; fullback Austin Johnson; receivers Jake Lampman and Jordan Williams-Lambert; offensive linemen Jack Allen, Joseph Cheek, John Fullington, Marcus Henry, Tony Hills, and Tyrus Thompson; tight end Garrett Griffin; and defensive backs Brian Dixon and Trae Elston.

Johnson scored a touchdown on a short pass in New Orleans' preseason finale against Baltimore on Thursday night, but the Saints elected to go with veteran fullback John Kuhn, who was acquired during training camp.

Four undrafted rookies - receiver Tommylee Lewis, guard Landon Turner, and defensive backs De'Vante Harris and Ken Crawley - remain on the roster, as do all five of the Saints' 2016 draft choices.

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Raiders keep four undrafted free agents
September 3, 2016

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) The Oakland Raiders kept four undrafted free agents on their 53-man roster, with running back Jalen Richard, defensive lineman Darius Latham, receiver Johnny Holton and cornerback Antonio Hamilton all surviving cuts at the roster deadline.

The Raiders traded safety Dewey McDonald to Seattle for a conditional draft pick, moved fullback Marcel Reece to the suspended list for the first three games and cut 20 other players Saturday.

The most noteworthy players to get cut were cornerback Neiko Thorpe, who had been given a second-round restricted free agent tender in the spring, and linebacker Neiron Ball, a fifth-round pick last year who was cut with an injured designation. Linebacker James Cowser was also waived/injured.

Richard, who played college ball at Southern Mississippi, impressed coaches almost immediately and joined rookie DeAndre Washington as the primary backups to Latavius Murray. Richard missed the first two exhibition games with an injury but showed some burst in the final two games as a runner, receiver and returner.

Latham, out of Indiana, was one of Oakland's most consistent defensive players in the preseason and provides depth on the line with starter Mario Edwards Jr. out with an injury. Edwards is expected to miss several more weeks and could be placed on injured reserve to start the season.

Holton, out of Cincinnati, was competing with K.J. Brent for the fifth wide receiver spot on the roster. Both players had good moments in the exhibition season, but Holton ended up winning out that race.

Hamilton, out of South Carolina State, was a bit of a surprise to make the team as one of six cornerbacks on the roster.

The other players released by Oakland were running back George Atkinson III; offensive linemen Mitch Bell, Denver Kirkland, Oni Omoile; defensive linemen Drew Iddings, Branden Jackson, Derrick Lott and Greg Townsend Jr.; linebackers John Lotulelei, Korey Toomer and Kyrie Wilson; receivers Marvin Hall and Jaydon Mickens; tight ends Jake McGee and Ryan O'Malley; and cornerback Kenneth Durden.

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Vikings cut draft picks Beavers, Bohringer, Weatherly
September 3, 2016

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) The Minnesota Vikings have let go of three of their eight draft picks, waiving guard Willie Beavers, wide receiver Moritz Bohringer and defensive end Stephen Weatherly in the process of setting the roster for the regular season.

Quarterbacks Joel Stave and Brad Sorensen were among the 20 players cut Saturday by the Vikings, who also sent their 2017 first-round draft pick and a 2018 fourth-round selection to the Philadelphia Eagles for Sam Bradford . With Teddy Bridgewater (knee) on injured reserve and Taylor Heinicke (foot) on the non-football injury list, the Vikings have only two quarterbacks for now with Shaun Hill and Bradford.

Beavers was taken in the fourth round out of Western Michigan. Bohringer became the first player in NFL history drafted straight from Europe. Weatherly was a seventh-round pick via Vanderbilt. But the Vikings are built to contend for a Super Bowl this season, leaving less room for rookies. They're all strong candidates for the 10-player practice squad that can be established Sunday.

Defensive tackle Kenrick Ellis, a vested veteran, was released. Waived in addition to Beavers, Bohringer and Weatherly were the following players: tackle Carter Bykowski, guard Isame Faciane, wide receiver Isaac Fruechte, running backs C.J. Ham and Jhurell Pressley, fullback Blake Renaud, tight end Kyle Carter, defensive ends Zach Moore and Denzell Perine, defensive tackles Toby Johnson and Travis Raciti, linebackers Jake Ganus and Brandon Watts, and cornerback Tre Roberson.

Safety Michael Griffin (back) and cornerback Jabari Price (knee) were placed on injured reserve to reach the 53-man limit. Griffin was signed to compete for the starting spot opposite Harrison Smith, but incumbent Andrew Sendejo has kept that job for now. The Vikings kept six cornerbacks, leaving little room for Price.

The offensive line will look a lot different than last season. Behind starters Matt Kalil, Alex Boone, Joe Berger, Brandon Fusco and Andre Smith, the Vikings kept backup tackles T.J. Clemmings and Jeremiah Sirles, backup guard Zac Kerin and backup center Nick Easton.

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Browns trade Gilbert, release Gabriel
September 3, 2016

CLEVELAND (AP) The Browns continued their methodical housecleaning by sweeping out another first-round pick.

Cornerback Justin Gilbert, who never lived up to being the No. 8 overall pick in 2014, was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday for a sixth-round draft pick in 2018 and Cleveland also released wide receiver Taylor Gabriel as it trimmed its roster to the NFL-required 53 players.

Gilbert was a major disappointment almost from the moment he began with the Browns. He started in just three games over two seasons in which he never seemed to mesh with his teammates on or off the field. The 24-year-old made only one interception and never delivered on the big-play potential he showed after starring at Oklahoma State.

Gilbert's departure wasn't entirely a surprise. On Friday, coach Hue Jackson said the defensive back had shown some signs of improvement this summer but did not guarantee he would make the roster.

With Gilbert gone, the Browns don't have any of the players they selected in the first round from 2011-14. Phil Taylor, Trent Richardson, Brandon Weeden, Barkevious Mingo and Johnny Manziel - all first-round picks - preceded Gilbert out of town. Cleveland's new front office recently traded Mingo to New England and the troubled Manziel was released in March.

The Browns have made three trades in the past week and the roster is likely to undergo further changes in the next 48 hours.

In getting down 53, the Browns released Gabriel, who had 64 catches over the past two seasons.

The 25-year-old Gabriel figured to have an edge after a long punt return in Thursday's loss to Chicago. However, the Browns decided to keep the four rookies they drafted this year - Corey Coleman, Ricardo Louis, Jordan Payton and Rashard Higgins - along with veterans Andrew Hawkins and Terrelle Pryor over Gabriel. Wide receiver Josh Gordon is suspended for the first four games because of multiple drug violations and does not count against the roster.

''We've gotten a lot bigger, we've got younger and I think we've gotten better,'' first-year coach Hue Jackson said. ''Having Terrelle Pryor and obviously our draft pick Corey Coleman is good, and it's great to see Terrelle come on. Obviously, getting Josh Gordon back on our football team is huge. You're talking about one of the better receivers in the league, and we've got to make sure we hold this thing together until he can get back and we're looking forward to having him back.''

Also, the Browns addressed their punting issue by signing former Denver punter Britton Colquitt to a one-year contract.

The Browns had been looking for a punter since trading three-time Pro Bowler Andy Lee to Carolina earlier this week for a fourth-round pick. On Thursday, punters Kasey Redfern and Mike Palardy both shanked kicks badly in a loss to Chicago. Redfern and Palardy were both released.

The 31-year-old Colquitt spent six seasons with the defending Super Bowl champion Broncos, who cut him on Tuesday. He has averaged 45.2 yards per punt in his career.

''It's great that we had the opportunity to add a quality veteran punter. Obviously, we let a really good one go, but it's tremendous that our personnel staff was able to quickly bring someone to our team who has had success in this league and has some skins on the wall,'' said Jackson, who vowed to fix the punting problem after the Browns lost 21-7 to the Bears. ''We're excited about the opportunity to work with him.''

Colquitt's brother, Dustin, punts for Kansas City. Their dad, Craig, punted for Pittsburgh from 1978-84.

On a busy day, the Browns learned they may face Eagles rookie quarterback Carson Wentz in the Sept. 11 season opener. Philadelphia traded Sam Bradford to Minnesota on Saturday, clearing the way for Wentz to take over if he's recovered from cracked ribs.

The Browns could have taken Wentz in the draft but opted to trade the No. 2 overall pick to the Eagles, who gave Cleveland their first-round pick in 2017 to move up.

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Bears' McPhee to start season on PUP list with knee injury
September 3, 2016

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) Chicago Bears outside linebacker Pernell McPhee will start the season on the physically unable to perform list and miss at least the first six games because of a knee injury.

McPhee is recovering from offseason surgery. He had six sacks last year - five in the first seven games.

The move was one of several as the Bears trimmed their roster to 53 before Saturday's deadline.

Receiver Marc Mariani and running back Jacquizz Rodgers were among six players who had their contracts terminated. The Bears waived 12 players, including rookie receiver Daniel Braverman.

They also waived defensive end Ego Ferguson and outside linebacker Danny Mason with injury settlements and placed receiver Marquess Wilson on the PUP list.

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**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:43 PM

NFL Week 1 Opening Line Report: Cowboys seeing sharp action of re-opening as home dogs

The Tony Romo injury caused books to reopen the Giants as 1.5-point road faves from 4-point dogs.

After months of anticipation, the NFL finally returns with real games as the regular season kicks off Thursday night. At some sportsbooks, the lines on Week 1 have been up for several weeks or more, with several significant shifts in those numbers.

We talk about four key season openers with Jason Simbal, vice president of risk management for CG Technology in Las Vegas, and Peter Childs, risk manager for offshore site Sportsbook.ag.

Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos – Open: Broncos -3; Move: Broncos -1.5, Panthers -1, Panthers -3

Right from the get-go, the 2016 season gets a Super Bowl rematch. The Broncos went in as 5-point underdogs in last season’s NFL title tilt and completely shut down Cam Newtown and Co. on the way to a 24-10 victory.

That marked Peyton Manning’s last game, and Brock Osweiler was expected to provide a steady transition following Manning’s retirement. But that narrative went out the window when Osweiler left for greener pastures with the Houston Texans, leading to a 180-degree swing in the line at CG’s books, including The Cosmopolitan, the M and the Venetian.

“Due to Denver’s Super Bowl win, the line opened at Broncos -3, with the assumption that Osweiler was going to start,” Simbal said. “Once the game opened (in mid-April), bets began coming in on the Panthers, and the line moved their way. Once Osweiler left, it shifted all the way to the Panthers.”

Denver went 15-4 SU and a more modest 10-8-1 ATS in 2015, while the Panthers won their first 14 games last year and finished 17-2 SU, 13-6 ATS.

Sportsbook.ag’s opening line was much tighter, at Broncos -1 as Childs gave Denver modest home-field respect while knowing quarterback could be an issue. But as with CG, that respect didn’t last for long.

“We quickly took on Panthers money, and we knew quite early that the public was going to be squarely behind the Panthers in this revenge game,” Childs said. “We quickly went to Panthers -1 and kept ticking up until just last week, when we eventually got to Panthers -3.5, our current number.”

New York Giants at Dallas Cowboys – Open: Cowboys -4; Move: Giants -1.5, Giants -1

This NFC East rivalry gets renewed right away with a 4:25 p.m. Eastern start on Sunday. Unfortunately, the game lost a lot of its luster and the Cowboys lost their status as home favorites when quarterback Tony Romo went down with a back injury in Week 3 of the preseason.

Romo is expected to miss at least the first six weeks of the regular season for Dallas, which went 4-12 SU and 4-11-1 ATS last year without Romo almost the entire way. He broke his collarbone in Week 2, came back at Thanksgiving and reinjured it, then missed the rest of the season.

The Giants didn’t fare much better in 2015, going 6-10 SU, 8-7-1 ATS.

“Before the Romo injury, the Cowboys were a solid 4-point favorite. But once we learned he was out, we immediately closed the game and assessed the situation,” Childs said. “While everyone is in love with Romo’s backup, Dak Prescott, he’s still a rookie and hasn’t taken a regular-season NFL snap, so we have major reservations about his ability until proven otherwise.

“With a major downgrade at quarterback, we dropped the line a full 5 points, making the Giants a small 1.5-point favorite. We’ve written good action at that price, but we booked some sharp action on the Cowboys at +1.5 and moved it down a half-point to Giants -1.”

CG experienced similar movement, though the game is now rated a toss-up.

“In Week 1 last year, the same game opened Cowboys -7,” Simbal said of a contest Dallas won 27-26 at home. “After some of the Giants’ offseason moves, and the move toward the Giants in futures, the opener here was Cowboys -4.5. After the Romo injury, it went to a pick.”

New England Patriots at Arizona Cardinals – Open: Cardinals -1; Move: Cardinals -4, Cardinals -6

It’s another game more about who’s not playing than who is, with Tom Brady not under center for the Patriots while he serves a four-game suspension over DeflateGate. Once that decision came down in late April, the line took off in favor of the host Cardinals.

“These are both very even and popular teams, so Arizona (initially) got the slight nod of being a 1-point favorite at home,” Simbal said. “Once the Brady suspension broke, it went all the way up to 6.”
New England was 13-5 SU, 8-8-2 ATS last year, bowing out in the AFC Championship Game, a 20-18 loss to Denver as a 3-point road favorite. Arizona (14-4 SU, 9-9 ATS in 2015) reached the NFC Championship Game but got torched at Carolina 49-15 as a 3-point underdog.

Childs said Sportsbook – which opened the Pats at -1 – took the game down even before the Brady news, based on chatter that the courts were going to uphold the suspension. After the decision came down, the game went back up with Arizona at -5.

“We saw real nice, two-way action,” Childs said. “More times than not, going from Brady to Jimmy Garoppolo would require a much bigger line move, in my opinion. But when considering Bill Belichick has had all summer to game-plan, we didn’t want to give more than 6 points to arguably the best coach in the NFL.

“That said, sharp money as well as some public money has pushed this line to 6. I believe that money represents Garoppolo’s struggles in the preseason. He flat-out didn’t look all that good.”

Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins – Open: Steelers -3; Move: none

Both these teams made the playoffs last year, and Pittsburgh is among the shorter favorites this season to win the Super Bowl. Unlike the aforementioned three season openers, though, the line in this contest has been steady.

“The Steelers are about a touchdown better on a neutral field, so Washington got 3-4 points for being at home,” Simbal said. “The opener here of -3 was fine since there has been little movement.”

The Steelers went 11-7 SU, 9-6-3 ATS last season, bowing out in the divisional playoffs with a 23-16 loss as 7-point ‘dogs at Denver. The Redskins won a flagging NFC East with a 9-7 SU and ATS mark, then lost to Green Bay 35-18 as 2-point home chalk in the wild-card round.

Sportsbook bounced back and forth between its opener of 3 and 3.5 a couple times, with the three-game suspension of Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell weighing into a shift back to 3. But Pittsburgh continues to get the bulk of the action.

“The Bell suspension really hasn’t stopped support for the Steelers,” Childs said. “With more and more money coming in on the road favorite, we went back to 3.5 about a month ago and haven’t moved off that number.”

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:45 PM

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 1

Thursday, September 8

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

CAROLINA (17 - 2) at DENVER (15 - 4) - 9/8/2016, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points since 1992.
CAROLINA is 73-49 ATS (+19.1 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
CAROLINA is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

Sunday, September 11

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

TAMPA BAY (6 - 10) at ATLANTA (8 - 8) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in a road game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 points since 1992.
ATLANTA is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 2-2 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 2-2 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

MINNESOTA (11 - 6) at TENNESSEE (3 - 13) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 45-25 ATS (+17.5 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
MINNESOTA is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 7-23 ATS (-18.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 7-23 ATS (-18.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 7-20 ATS (-15.0 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in a home game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 5-17 ATS (-13.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

CLEVELAND (3 - 13) at PHILADELPHIA (7 - 9) - 9/11/2016, 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.

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

CINCINNATI (12 - 5) at NY JETS (10 - 6) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

OAKLAND (7 - 9) at NEW ORLEANS (7 - 9) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 39-76 ATS (-44.6 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
OAKLAND is 5-17 ATS (-13.7 Units) in all games where the total is greater than or equal to 49.5 since 1992.

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

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

SAN DIEGO (4 - 12) at KANSAS CITY (12 - 6) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 37-21 ATS (+13.9 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 3-1 against the spread versus SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS CITY is 4-0 straight up against SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

BUFFALO (8 - 8) at BALTIMORE (5 - 11) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

CHICAGO (6 - 10) at HOUSTON (9 - 8) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.

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

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

GREEN BAY (11 - 7) at JACKSONVILLE (5 - 11) - 9/11/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 172-122 ATS (+37.8 Units) 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.

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

MIAMI (6 - 10) at SEATTLE (11 - 7) - 9/11/2016, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 30-15 ATS (+13.5 Units) in home games in non-conference games since 1992.

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

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

NY GIANTS (6 - 10) at DALLAS (4 - 12) - 9/11/2016, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

DETROIT (7 - 9) at INDIANAPOLIS (8 - 8) - 9/11/2016, 4:25 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.

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

NEW ENGLAND (13 - 5) at ARIZONA (14 - 4) - 9/11/2016, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 42-24 ATS (+15.6 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 86-49 ATS (+32.1 Units) as an underdog since 1992.

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

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

Monday, September 12

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

PITTSBURGH (11 - 7) at WASHINGTON (9 - 8) - 9/12/2016, 7:10 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 79-108 ATS (-39.8 Units) in home games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 79-108 ATS (-39.8 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in home games when playing on Monday night since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 79-108 ATS (-39.8 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 13-28 ATS (-17.8 Units) in home games in September games since 1992.

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

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

LA RAMS (7 - 9) at SAN FRANCISCO (5 - 11) - 9/12/2016, 10:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA RAMS is 171-214 ATS (-64.4 Units) in all games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 171-214 ATS (-64.4 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 79-109 ATS (-40.9 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
LA RAMS is 123-169 ATS (-62.9 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
LA RAMS is 55-83 ATS (-36.3 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
LA RAMS is 31-51 ATS (-25.1 Units) in September games since 1992.
SAN FRANCISCO is 30-10 ATS (+19.0 Units) when playing on Monday night since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-2 against the spread versus LA RAMS over the last 3 seasons
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-2 straight up against LA RAMS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:48 PM

NFL

Week 1

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

Thursday, September 8

8:30 PM
CAROLINA vs. DENVER
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Carolina's last 17 games
Carolina is 17-2 SU in its last 19 games
Denver is 2-3-2 ATS in its last 7 games
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Carolina

Sunday, September 11

1:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. NEW ORLEANS
Oakland is 5-20 SU in its last 25 games on the road
Oakland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing New Orleans
New Orleans is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
New Orleans is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games at home

1:00 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. ATLANTA
Tampa Bay is 6-18 SU in its last 24 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
Atlanta is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games

1:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games
Chicago is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Houston is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games

1:00 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. KANSAS CITY
San Diego is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
San Diego is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Kansas City is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. TENNESSEE
Minnesota is 7-17-1 SU in its last 25 games ,on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games on the road
Tennessee is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Tennessee is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games

1:00 PM
GREEN BAY vs. JACKSONVILLE
Green Bay is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Jacksonville
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Green Bay's last 15 games
Jacksonville is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Jacksonville is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games

1:00 PM
BUFFALO vs. BALTIMORE
Buffalo is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Buffalo's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Baltimore is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Buffalo
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing Buffalo

1:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. PHILADELPHIA
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games
Philadelphia is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home

1:00 PM
CINCINNATI vs. NY JETS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 7 games when playing NY Jets
Cincinnati is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against NY Jets
NY Jets are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games at home
NY Jets are 9-2 SU in their last 11 games when playing Cincinnati

4:05 PM
MIAMI vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games
Miami is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Seattle is 17-5 SU in its last 22 games at home
Seattle is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami

4:25 PM
NY GIANTS vs. DALLAS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the NY Giants last 5 games when playing on the road against Dallas
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the NY Giants last 5 games when playing Dallas
Dallas is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Giants
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games

4:25 PM
DETROIT vs. INDIANAPOLIS
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Detroit's last 18 games on the road
Detroit is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Indianapolis's last 23 games
Indianapolis is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit

8:30 PM
NEW ENGLAND vs. ARIZONA
New England is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
New England is 3-6-1 ATS in its last 10 games
Arizona is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing New England
Arizona is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing New England

Monday, September 12

7:10 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. WASHINGTON
Pittsburgh is 2-3-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Pittsburgh's last 11 games on the road
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh

10:20 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Los Angeles is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Los Angeles's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of San Francisco's last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing at home against Los Angeles

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:50 PM

NFL
Dunkel

Week 1

Thursday, September 8

Carolina @ Denver

Game 451-452
September 8, 2016 @ 8:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Carolina
146.356
Denver
140.869
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Carolina
by 5 1/2
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Carolina
by 3
41 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Carolina
(-3); Over

Sunday, September 11

Green Bay @ Jacksonville

Game 469-470
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Green Bay
137.550
Jacksonville
123.760
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Green Bay
by 14
45
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Green Bay
by 4 1/2
48 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Green Bay
(-4 1/2); Under

Miami @ Seattle

Game 471-472
September 11, 2016 @ 4:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Miami
131.766
Seattle
138.698
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 7
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Seattle
by 10 1/2
44
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(+10 1/2); Over

NY Giants @ Dallas

Game 473-474
September 11, 2016 @ 4:25 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Giants
126.935
Dallas
130.887
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Dallas
by 4
42
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Dallas
Pick
46 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Dallas
Under

Tampa Bay @ Atlanta

Game 453-454
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
127.877
Atlanta
126.458
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tampa Bay
by 1 1/2
44
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Atlanta
by 3
48
Dunkel Pick:
Tampa Bay
(+3); Under

Detroit @ Indianapolis

Game 475-476
September 11, 2016 @ 4:25 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit
131.492
Indianapolis
128.295
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit
by 3
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indianapolis
by 4 1/2
51
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
(+4 1/2); Under

Minnesota @ Tennessee

Game 455-456
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Minnesota
138.482
Tennessee
121.368
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 17
46
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 1
41
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
(-1); Over

New England @ Arizona

Game 477-478
September 11, 2016 @ 8:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New England
130.223
Arizona
139.301
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona
by 9
43
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona
by 6
47 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona
(-6); Under

Cleveland @ Philadelphia

Game 457-458
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
126.703
Philadelphia
127.665
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 1
38
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
by 4
41 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(+4); Under

Cincinnati @ NY Jets

Game 459-460
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cincinnati
137.726
NY Jets
132.817
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cincinnati
by 5
38
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cincinnati
by 2 1/2
42
Dunkel Pick:
Cincinnati
(-2 1/2); Under

Oakland @ New Orleans

Game 461-462
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Oakland
131.627
New Orleans
129.309
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Oakland
by 2 1/2
55
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New Orleans
by 1
51
Dunkel Pick:
Oakland
(+1); Over

San Diego @ Kansas City

Game 463-464
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Diego
131.044
Kansas City
134.112
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas City
by 3
41
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
by 7
45
Dunkel Pick:
San Diego
(+7); Under

Buffalo @ Baltimore

Game 465-466
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Buffalo
130.829
Baltimore
136.717
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore
by 6
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baltimore
by 3
44 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore
(-3); Over

Chicago @ Houston

Game 467-468
September 11, 2016 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago
130.735
Houston
133.614
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 3
49
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
by 6
44
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago
(+6); Over

Monday, September 12

Pittsburgh @ Washington

Game 479-480
September 12, 2016 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
133.002
Washington
136.544
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 3 1/2
46
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
by 3 1/2
50 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(+3 1/2); Under

Los Angeles @ San Francisco

Game 481-482
September 12, 2016 @ 10:20 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Los Angeles
132.612
San Francisco
127.509
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Los Angeles
by 5
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Los Angeles
by 2 1/2
43 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Los Angeles
(-2 1/2); Over

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:55 PM

NFL ACTION TRENDS

ATS

10:20 pm 9/12/2016
(481) LA RAMS @(482) SAN FRANCISCO
Play ON SAN FRANCISCO against the spread in All games when playing on Monday night.
The record is 30 Wins and 10 Losses since 1992 (+19 units)
BET NOW!
4:25 pm 9/11/2016
(473) NY GIANTS @(474) DALLAS
Play AGAINST DALLAS against the spread in All games in games played on turf.
The record is 1 Wins and 9 Losses for the last two seasons (-8.9 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(455) MINNESOTA @(456) TENNESSEE
Play ON MINNESOTA against the spread in All games in all lined games.
The record is 14 Wins and 3 Losses for the last two seasons (+10.7 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(455) MINNESOTA @(456) TENNESSEE
Play ON MINNESOTA against the spread in All games in all games.
The record is 14 Wins and 3 Losses for the last two seasons (+10.7 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(459) CINCINNATI @(460) NY JETS
Play ON CINCINNATI against the spread in All games in road lined games.
The record is 8 Wins and 0 Losses for the last two seasons (+8 units)
BET NOW!
8:30 pm 9/8/2016
(451) CAROLINA @(452) DENVER
Play ON CAROLINA against the spread in All games in games where the line is +3 to -3.
The record is 8 Wins and 0 Losses for the last two seasons (+8 units)
BET NOW!

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

NFL MONEYLINE

7:10 pm 9/12/2016
(479) PITTSBURGH @(480) WASHINGTON
Play ON PITTSBURGH using the money line in All games when playing on Monday night.
The record is 27 Wins and 10 Losses since 1992 (+21 units)
BET NOW!
7:10 pm 9/12/2016
(479) PITTSBURGH @(480) WASHINGTON
Play AGAINST WASHINGTON using the money line in Home games when playing on Monday night.
The record is 4 Wins and 14 Losses since 1992 (-16.65 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(467) CHICAGO @(468) HOUSTON
Play ON CHICAGO using the money line in Road games in games played on a grass field.
The record is 4 Wins and 0 Losses for the last two seasons (+8.3 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(463) SAN DIEGO @(464) KANSAS CITY
Play AGAINST SAN DIEGO using the money line in All games in a road game where the total is between 42.5 and 45 points.
The record is 14 Wins and 30 Losses since 1992 (-25.25 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(461) OAKLAND @(462) NEW ORLEANS
Play AGAINST OAKLAND using the money line in All games in games where the money line is +130 to -150.
The record is 40 Wins and 80 Losses since 1992 (-51.2 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(461) OAKLAND @(462) NEW ORLEANS
Play AGAINST NEW ORLEANS using the money line in All games in September games.
The record is 1 Wins and 6 Losses for the last three seasons (-10.4 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(459) CINCINNATI @(460) NY JETS
Play AGAINST CINCINNATI using the money line in All games against AFC East division opponents.
The record is 13 Wins and 35 Losses since 1992 (-32.75 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(465) BUFFALO @(466) BALTIMORE
Play ON BALTIMORE using the money line in Home games in September games.
The record is 27 Wins and 7 Losses since 1992 (+21.7 units)
BET NOW!
8:30 pm 9/8/2016
(451) CAROLINA @(452) DENVER
Play ON CAROLINA using the money line in All games in all games.
The record is 17 Wins and 2 Losses for the last two seasons (+13.8 units)
BET NOW!
8:30 pm 9/8/2016
(451) CAROLINA @(452) DENVER
Play ON CAROLINA using the money line in All games in all lined games.
The record is 17 Wins and 2 Losses for the last two seasons (+13.8 units)
BET NOW!

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

NFL UNDERS

10:20 pm 9/12/2016
(481) LA RAMS @(482) SAN FRANCISCO
Play UNDER SAN FRANCISCO on the total in Home games against conference opponents.
The record is 1 Overs and 11 Unders for the last three seasons (+9.9 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(453) TAMPA BAY @(454) ATLANTA
Play UNDER ATLANTA on the total in All games in all games.
The record is 2 Overs and 14 Unders for the last two seasons (+11.8 units)
BET NOW!
1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(453) TAMPA BAY @(454) ATLANTA
Play UNDER ATLANTA on the total in All games in all lined games.
The record is 2 Overs and 14 Unders for the last two seasons (+11.8 units)
BET NOW!

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:57 PM

NFL POWER LINES

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(461) OAKLAND @(462) NEW ORLEANS
Play Line: OAKLAND 1
BTB PowerLine: OAKLAND -1
Edge On: OAKLAND 2

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(455) MINNESOTA @(456) TENNESSEE
Play Line: MINNESOTA -2.5
BTB PowerLine: MINNESOTA -17
Edge On: MINNESOTA 14.5

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(469) GREEN BAY @(470) JACKSONVILLE
Play Line: GREEN BAY -5.5
BTB PowerLine: GREEN BAY -10
Edge On: GREEN BAY 4.5

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(465) BUFFALO @(466) BALTIMORE
Play Line: BUFFALO 3
BTB PowerLine: BUFFALO -1
Edge On: BUFFALO 4

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(453) TAMPA BAY @(454) ATLANTA
Play Line: ATLANTA -3
BTB PowerLine: ATLANTA -7
Edge On: ATLANTA 4

1:00 pm 9/11/2016
(463) SAN DIEGO @(464) KANSAS CITY
Play Line: KANSAS CITY -6.5
BTB PowerLine: KANSAS CITY -16
Edge On: KANSAS CITY 9.5

4:05 pm 9/11/2016
(471) MIAMI @(472) SEATTLE
Play Line: SEATTLE -10.5
BTB PowerLine: SEATTLE -20
Edge On: SEATTLE 9.5

4:25 pm 9/11/2016
(473) NY GIANTS @(474) DALLAS
Play Line: DALLAS -1
BTB PowerLine: DALLAS -5
Edge On: DALLAS 4

4:25 pm 9/11/2016
(475) DETROIT @(476) INDIANAPOLIS
Play Line: DETROIT 4
BTB PowerLine: DETROIT -3
Edge On: DETROIT 7

8:30 pm 9/11/2016
(477) NEW ENGLAND @(478) ARIZONA
Play Line: NEW ENGLAND 6
BTB PowerLine: NEW ENGLAND +2
Edge On: NEW ENGLAND 4

**StarDust Bum** · 09-05-2016, 01:59 PM

NFL WEEK 1 WAGERING ANGLES

4th Sep 2016

The first week of the season in the National Football League is always exciting. It comes with plenty of pageantry and exciting games that feature some of the best teams in the league. It also comes with an interesting wagering angle.
Although many of the teams have gone through a major transformation with the NFL draft, free agency pickups and coaching changes, there are still some solid football wagering angles that can provide a solid foundation to begin your pro football betting season off in the right direction.

Last year the NFL season opened up with nine home underdogs on the schedule. Before last year home underdogs were a profitable 81-67-4 against the spread (ATS) good for (55%) in the previous 30 seasons on opening weekend. Out of those 30 years there were 10 or more weeks that saw the schedule littered with at least six home underdogs, which could be a sign that the odds makers were not confident with their odds placement. In those ten weeks home underdogs were 42-23-1 ATS (65%) which makes the home underdogs in week one something to consider.
However, in week one of the 2015 season the home dogs finished with a below .500 record at 4-5 ATS (44%). Heading into week 1 of the 2016 season home underdogs are now 85-72-4 ATS (54%) over the last 31 seasons.

That is still an impressive football betting trend and although it just fits a profitable angle, 54% is good enough to still consider home underdogs in week one. However, it is best to be choosy when looking for a home dog that will bite in week one.
Another angle that should be considered in week one is betting on those same home underdogs to win straight up (SU). Betting on an underdog on the money line can yield a much bigger profit than just taking the team with the posted point spread.
In week one last year the St. Louis Rams beat the Seahawks 34-31 as (+3.5) home underdogs and the Buffalo Bills beat the Indianapolis Colts 27-14 as a (+1) underdog. On Monday Night Football the Atlanta Falcons beat the Philadelphia Eagles 26-24 as (+3) underdogs and the San Francisco 49ers beat the Minnesota Vikings 20-3 as (+2.5) underdogs.

Keep in mind this football wagering angle is stronger if there are at least six home underdogs on the schedule.

The football betting trend for week one of the NFL season to keep an eye on, is a simple one. Bet on the NFL home underdogs in week one of the regular season. But wait there is more!

A pro football wagering angle that is getting more attention in recent years is the Super Bowl hangover.

Last year when the Seattle Seahawks were coming off a last minute heartbreaking loss in the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots, they seemed motivated to return to the Super Bowl and bring another ring to the Emerald City.

Instead they fell flat in week one of the regular season. They were listed as (-3.5) favorites in the season opener on the road against the St. Louis Rams. The Seahawks not only failed to cover the spread, but they lost the game outright. The Rams 34-31 win fueled the theory that the Super Bowl hangover is a real thing.
In the last eleven years the runner-up in the Super Bowl has gone 2-8-1 (20%) against the spread in Week 1. After opening up as a (+2.5) road underdog in the NFL season opener against the Denver Broncos, the point spread has shifted significantly and the Panthers are now (-3) point favorites.

This could spell big trouble for the Carolina Panthers in week one of the 2016 season.

**StarDust Bum** · 09-08-2016, 04:29 AM

Value Index Edge

Week 1

THURSDAY, SEPT. 8, 2016

Rotation Teams VI Index Homefield Edge Adjusted Rating Odds VI Edge

451 Carolina 106.5 - - -3 +1
452 Denver 99 3.5 102.5 - -

SUNDAY, SEPT. 11, 2016

Rotation Teams VI Index Homefield Edge Adjusted Rating Odds VI Edge

453 Tampa Bay 98 - - - -
454 Atlanta 104.5 3 107.5 -3 +6.5

455 Minnesota 103.5 - - -1.5 -
456 Tennessee 102.5 2.5 105 - +3

457 Cleveland 97.5 - - - -
458 Philadelphia 99 3 102 -4 +.5

459 Cincinnati 102.5 - - -2.5 -
460 N.Y. Jets 102 3 105 - +5

461 Oakland 105 - - - +5.5
462 New Orleans 97.5 3 100.5 -1

463 San Diego 98.5 - - - -
464 Kansas City 104.5 3 107.5 -7 +2

465 Buffalo 98 - - - -
466 Baltimore 105.5 3 108.5 -3 +7.5

467 Chicago 98.5 - - - -
468 Houston 102 3 105 -6.5 -

469 Green Bay 104.5 - - -4.5 -
470 Jacksonville 99.5 2.5 102 - +2.5

471 Miami 98 - - - +1.5
472 Seattle 104 3.5 107.5 -10.5 -

473 N.Y. Giants 105 - - -1 +2
474 Dallas 99 3 102 - -

475 Detroit 101 - - - +2.5
476 Indianapolis 99.5 3 102.5 -3.5 -

477 New England 99 - - - +1.5
478 Arizona 100.5 3 103.5 -6 -

MONDAY, SEPT. 12, 2016

Rotation Teams VI Index Homefield Edge Adjusted Rating Odds VI Edge

479 Pittsburgh 102.5 - - -3 -
480 Washington 99 3 102 - +2.5

481 Los Angeles 100 - - -2.5 -
482 San Francsico 96 3 99 - +1.5

The VI Edge is a handicapping tool that creates an edge for each NFL matchup based on the VegasInsider.com Value Index power rankings, which are updated each Wednesday throughout the regular season and playoffs.

Calculating the VI Edge

The Value Index rankings are assigned each Wednesday for all 32 teams. Homefield edge, which varies per NFL team, are also added to the team rankings. The difference of the rankings is created for each matchup before being measured against the VegasInsider.com NFL Consensus Odds, which creates an edge for the visitor or home team.

Example
Visitor Ranking: 95
Home Ranking: 100
Homefield Edge: 3
Calculation: 103-95
Difference: 8
Odds: Home Team -4
VI Edge: Home Team +4

Announcement

The Bum's 2016 NFL Sept. Best Bets, Opinions, Trends, News !

The Bum's 2016 NFL Sept. Best Bets, Opinions, Trends, News !

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