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

[StarDust Bum]

Week 3 NFL

Texans (2-0) @ Patriots (2-0)– Rookie QB Brissett makes first NFL start here; Garropolo will be a backup- they didn’t sign another QB. Tough spot for Texans; long travel with short week in their road opener. Houston won its first two games at home, not allowing a TD in 2nd half of either game. Patriots scored TD on first drive of all four halves so far, winning first two games 23-21/31-24. New England won last four series games, three by 13+; they won 27-6 (-5) in Houston LY, outgaining Texans 313-189. Houston is 0-3 in Foxboro, losing all three by 13+. Houston coach O’Brien is a former Patriot QB coach. Brissett was 15-11 as a starter at NC State last two years. Texans won four of last five road openers. Over last 8+ years, Patriots are 3-0 as a home underdog. Houston is 4-0 as a road favorite under O’Brien.

Cardinals (2-0) @ Bills (0-2)– Buffalo fired its OC after 37-31 loss LW; not sure how that helps; they had three extra days to rest after loss to Jets. Curious to see how the play calling changes, since players/owner met about play calling before OC was fired. Arizona covered its last eight road openers (6-2 SU); under is 7-3 in their last 10 road openers- they split first two home games, despite a +7 turnover margin. Redbirds are 8-2 as road favorites in Arians era; they’re 4-6 vs spread coming off a win. Bills won five of last six series ganes. Cardinals are 1-3 in Buffalo, with last visit in ’04, only win in 1971. Buffalo covered nine of its last 11 games as a home underdog.

Raiders (1-1) @ Titans (1-1)– LeBeau’s defense allowed only one TD on 18 drives in first two games; they rallied from down 15-3 in 4th quarter to even record at Detroit. Oakland has allowed 69 points in two games, giving up eight TDs on 21 drives. Raiders allowed 1,035 TY in two games, giving up six TDs, four FGs in 11 red zone drives. Tennessee won three of last four series games; five of last seven series games were decided by 5 or less points. Raiders are 2-5 in Tennessee; they beat Titans 24-21 (-1) LY, outgaining them 407-249, converting 8-15 on 3rd down. Oakland covered six of its last seven games as a road underdog. Tennessee is 9-15-1 in its last 25 games as a home favorite.

Browns (0-2) @ Dolphins (0-2)– Cleveland blew 20-0 first quarter lead LW, now start 3rd QB in three weeks (USC rookie Kessler). Dolphins drop way down in class here, after losing to Seattle/Patriots- over last decade, they’re 11-26 as home favorites. Miami won three of its last four home openers, are 4-7 vs spread in last 11, with last seven HOs going over total. Cleveland ran ball for 265 yards in first two games- they were outscored 39-3 in second half of the games. Browns won four of last six series games, splitting last two visits here, last of which was in ’10. Five of last six series totals were 33 or less. Miami was outscored 30-6 in first half of its games; all four of their TDs came in second half of games.

Week 3 NFL
Texans (-2.5, 41) @ Patriots………….Broncos @ Bengals (NL-Dalton)
Raiders @ Titans (-1., 46.5)………….Cardinals (-4.5, 47) @ Bills
Ravens (-1, 47.5) @ Jaguars…………..Browns @ Dolphins (-9.5, 41.5)
Redskins @ Giants (-4.5, 46.5)………Lions @ Packers (-7.5, 48)
Vikings @ Panthers (-7, 48)…………..49ers @ Seahawks (-10, 40.5)
Rams @ Buccaneers (-5, 42)………….Steelers (-5.5, 46) @ Eagles
Jets @ Chiefs (-3, 43)……………………..Chargers @ Colts (-3, 51)
Bears @ Cowboys (NL-Cutler)………..Falcons @ Saints (-3, 54)

Week 2 NFL
Jets (W37-31) @ Bills (-1, 41)……………Titans (W16-15) @ Lions (-5.5, 47)
Chiefs @ Texans (W19-12) (-2, 43.5)………….Dolphins @ Patriots (-6.5, 41.5) (W31-24)
Ravens (-6.5, 43) (W25-20) @ Browns…………Bengals @ Steelers (-3.5, 47.5) (W24-16)
Cowboys (W27-23) @ Redskins (-3.5, 44.5)…………Saints @ Giants (-5, 52.5) (W16-13)
49ers @ Panthers (-14, 48.5) (W46-27)…………Bucs @ Cardinals (-6.5, 50) (W40-7)
Seahawks (-6.5) @ Rams (W9-3)…………Colts @ Broncos (-6, 45) (W34-20)
Falcons (W35-28) @ Raiders (-5.5, 48.5)…………Jaguars @ Chargers (-3, 48) (W38-14)
Packers (-2.5), 44.5 @ Vikings (W17-14)………..Eagles @ Bears (-3, 43)

Week 1 NFL
Carolina (-3, 40.5) @ Denver (W21-20)……………Chicago @ Houston (-6, 44) (W23-14)
Tampa Bay (W31-24)@ Atlanta (-3, 47.5)……..Green Bay (-5, 48) (W27-23) @ Jacksonville
Minnesota (-2.5, 40.5) (W25-16) @ Tennessee ………..Miami @ Seattle (-10, 44) (W12-10)
Cleveland @ Philadelphia (-4, 41) (29-10)……….NJ Giants (W20-19) @ Dallas (-1, 46)
Cincinnati (-2.5, 42) (W23-22) @ NJ Jets………..Detroit (W39-35) @ Indianapolis (-3.5, 51)
Oakland (W35-34) @ New Orleans (-1.5, 51)….New England (W23-21) @ Arizona (-6, 46.5)
San Diego @ Kansas City (W33-27 OT) (-7, 44)………….Pittsburgh (-3, 50) @ Washington
Buffalo @ Baltimore (-3, 44.5) (W13-7)……………….Los Angeles (-2.5, 43) @ San Francisco

2016 week-by-week results

Home Favorites Totals O/U AFC-NFC

1) 7-9 5-11 7-9 5-3N
2) 10-6 7-9 7-8 1-1

Tot 17-15 12-20 14-17 6-4N

[StarDust Bum]

Only took 1 win for Dak Prescott to become the man in Dallas
September 20, 2016

Dak Prescott should keep Tony Romo on the bench.

The rookie quarterback had another impressive game, leading the Cowboys to a 27-23 win at Washington. Prescott completed 22 of 30 passes for 292 yards, ran for a TD and drove Dallas 80 yards for the winning score late in the fourth quarter.

Prescott has yet to have a turnover in two games. The Cowboys were 1-11 without Romo last season. They're already 1-1 without him this year. If Prescott continues to play well, many will question whether Romo deserves to start when he returns.

Romo is in the third season of a six-year, $108 million contract. He's been to four Pro Bowls and had a career year in 2014, his last injury-free season. When he's healthy, he'll start.

Here are other overreactions following Week 2:

OVERREACTION: The Browns are going 0-16. They couldn't even win after taking a 20-0 lead at home against Baltimore.

REALISTIC REACTION: This will lead the list until Cleveland wins a game - in 2016 or 2017.

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OVERREACTION: Kirk Cousins and the Redskins (0-2) were a fluke in 2015. Cousins threw a critical end-zone interception that led to Dallas scoring the winning TD.

REALISTIC REACTION: Washington was 4-6 last season before Cousins led them to six straight wins and a division title. Way too early to count them out in the NFC East.

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OVERREACTION: Steve Spagnuolo's defense will lead the Giants (2-0) to the playoffs. After allowing Drew Brees to throw for 511 yards and an NFL-tying seven touchdowns last year, New York limited the Saints to 288 yards in a 16-13 win.

REALISTIC REACTION: The Giants have improved on D, but this team's success falls on Eli Manning and Ben McAdoo's high-powered offense.

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OVERREACTION: Super Cam is back. Newton threw for 353 yards and four touchdowns , in Carolina's 46-27 win over San Francisco after taking a beating in a season-opening loss to Denver.

REALISTIC REACTION: There's a reason why Newton is reigning NFL MVP, but the 49ers are no Broncos.

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OVERREACTION: Rex Ryan will be the first coach fired. The Bills are 0-2 and Ryan already dismissed offensive coordinator Greg Roman.

REALISTIC REACTION: Ryan has three seasons and more than $15 million remaining on his contract. The Bills have to implode for him to lose his job.

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OVERREACTION: The Patriots can win with receiver Julian Edelman at quarterback. After Jimmy Garoppolo got hurt , rookie Jacoby Brissett came in and New England (2-0) still beat Miami.

REALISTIC REACTION: They need Tom Brady back ASAP.

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OVERREACTION: Brock Osweiler was worth the big contract. He has the Texans off to a 2-0 start.

REALISTIC REACTION: Osweiler threw two picks against the Chiefs and only led the offense to just one TD. Houston's defense deserves credit for the win.

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OVERREACTION: The real Jameis Winston showed up against the Cardinals. After a four-touchdown performance in a win at Atlanta, Winston turned the ball over five times with four interceptions and one fumble in a loss at Arizona.

REALISTIC REACTION: Arizona's defense has made some of the best quarterbacks look ordinary in recent seasons.

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OVERREACTION: The Jags are still the Jags. This was supposed be a breakout year for the Jaguars, but they're 0-2 for the fourth time in five seasons.

REALISTIC REACTION: So 8-8 isn't looking good, but they're not going 0-16.

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OVERREACTION: Carson Wentz is the next Peyton Manning. Wentz has the Eagles off to a 2-0 start and he's the first rookie QB in NFL history to start his career with two wins and zero turnovers. He's already one win shy of tying Manning's rookie season.

REALISTIC REACTION: Wentz has been impressive , but he beat the Browns and Bears.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL Opening Line Report: Key injuries are the main factor heading into Week 3

"(Jacoby Brissett) looked awful coming off the bench, and now he has to face a very good Texans defense led by J.J. Watt. Good luck, Jacoby!"

Injuries are clearly going to be a factor for oddsmakers in Week 3 of the NFL season. We talk about a few of this week’s opening lines with Peter Childs, risk management supervisor for offshore site Sportsbook.ag, and Jason Simbal, vice president of risk management for CG Technology in Las Vegas.

Houston Texans at New England Patriots (+2.5)

The injury bug bit New England at the worst possible position – quarterback. Jimmy Garoppolo, subbing while Tom Brady serves his four-game Deflategate suspension, suffered an injury to his right (throwing) shoulder in Sunday’s 31-24 home victory over Miami as a 5.5-point favorite.

Worse still, the Patriots (2-0 SU and ATS) are working on a short week, playing in the Thursday night contest. The Pats had to finish Sunday’s win with rookie Jacoby Brissett at QB, and wideout Julian Edelman was the emergency QB.

Meanwhile, Houston (2-0 SU and ATS) held off visiting Kansas City 19-12 Sunday as a 1-point underdog.

Because of New England’s QB situation, Childs opened Houston at -2.5 and expects that number might head up.

“Wow. This is the line we had to adjust the most, with Garoppolo going down and third-stringer Jacoby Brissett making his first start,” Childs said. “He looked awful coming off the bench, and now he has to face a very good Texans defense led by J.J. Watt. Good luck, Jacoby!

“We opened Texans -2.5, and I have a feeling we’ll be getting to them as a solid 3-point favorite sooner rather than later.”

CG also hung a line of Texans -2.5 at its sportsbooks, including The Cosmopolitan, M and Venetian.

“With the Patriots having questions at quarterback and likely no Rob Gronkowski, they are home ‘dogs,” Simbal said.

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers (-6.5)

Defending NFC champion Carolina (1-1 SU and ATS) rebounded from its season-opening loss at Denver by rolling past San Francisco 46-27 laying 12 points at home Sunday. Meanwhile, Minnesota knocked off Green Bay 17-14 catching 1 point at home, but lost Adrian Peterson to a knee injury.

“The Panthers are slightly more than a field goal better than the Vikings, and Carolina takes on an extra 3 points for playing at home,” Simbal said.

Sportsbook.ag held off on its opening number because of Minnesota playing Sunday night.

Denver Broncos vs. Cincinnati Bengals (-3.5)

The defending Super Bowl champion Broncos have picked up where they left off last year, with a dominant defense keying a 2-0 SU and ATS start. On Sunday, Denver had a pick-six and a fumble recovery for a touchdown that put away Indianapolis in a 34-20 win as a 6-point home fave.

Cincinnati (1-1 SU and ATS) fell at Pittsburgh 24-16 Sunday as a 3-point pup.

Sportsbook.ag installed Cincy as a 3.5-point chalk, but news later came out that Bengals QB Andy Dalton is questionable with an apparent ankle injury. So Childs took the game down late Sunday evening.

“It’s one of the better games, featuring two teams that were in the playoffs last year and with playoff expectations this year,” Childs said. “I’m certain the public will support the Broncos here, and the sharps are going to back the favorite (pending Dalton’s status).

“Most sharp bettors love fading rookie quarterbacks making their first road start, and that’s what the Broncos will be doing on Sunday. While Trevor Siemian isn’t a rookie, it’s his first road start, and I see him struggling here in this spot.”

Added Simbal, who also opened Cincinnati at -3.5: “It’s two very evenly matched teams, so the home team gets the home-field advantage edge.”

Washington Redskins at New York Giants (-4)

The Giants are out of the gate 2-0 SU (1-1 ATS) with a second tight victory in as many weeks. New York held off New Orleans 16-13, failing to cash as a 3.5-point favorite. Meanwhile, Washington (0-2 SU and ATS) is still seeking its first win after Sunday’s 27-23 setback to Dallas as a 3.5-point home chalk.

“The ‘Skins are in a must, must-win spot, starting the season 0-2, with both those losses at home,” Childs said. “The Giants made a ton of offseason moves to improve their defense, and so far it’s paid off, holding their two opponents this season to just 19 and 13 points. Eli Manning really hasn’t lit the world on fire so far, and that’s a bit surprising, because he has weapons galore, especially at wide receiver.

“That said, it’s a heated NFC East rivalry game, and we hung the Giants -4. I suspect the public will fade the 0-2 ‘Skins and back the undefeated Giants. I see this game closing at 4.5.”

At CG books, the number opened at Giants -3.5.

“The Giants closed -4.5 (at CG books) against New Orleans,” Simbal said. “Washington is a point better than the Saints right now, so 3.5 is the result.”

[StarDust Bum]

NFL Week 3 line watch: The Buffalo Bills are in big trouble

Is Rex Ryan already playing out the string in western New York? Ryan might be on thin ice even before the ice arrives in Buffalo.

Game to bet now

Arizona Cardinals at Buffalo Bills (+4)

Is Rex Ryan already playing out the string in western New York? Ryan might be on thin ice even before the ice arrives in Buffalo. The Bills are 0-2 and already two games back in the AFC East, and now face the Cardinals and Patriots in back-to-back games. If Buffalo isn’t at least competitive, the pressure will certainly be on ownership to make a mid-season change. The Cardinals head east with tons of momentum after crushing Tampa Bay by 33 in Week 2, and now begin the soft underbelly of their schedule (Bills, Rams, 49ers and Jets). The game opened at Buffalo +4, and if you’re with the vast majority of early bettors who like the Cardinals, best get your wager down before the number goes to 4½ or 5.

Game to wait on

Houston Texans at New England Patriots (+2.5)

Lots to look here as the Texans play their first road game of the year. New England will have had only a few days to get third-string rookie QB Jacoby Brissett up to speed in the wake of Jimmy Garoppolo’s shoulder injury. And what happens if Brissett goes down? Also, will Rob Gronkowski play? What about LB Dont’a Hightower, whose absence was clearly felt last Sunday in the second half against Miami? If the Patriots plan on a light workload for Brissett and hope to run the ball with workhorse LeGarrette Blount (29 carries/123 yards vs. the Dolphins), be advised the Texans are more than pretty good against the run. If you like NE in this one, at 2.5 it might be a good idea to hold on until just before kickoff to see if Texans money pushes the number to 3.

Total to watch

San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (51.5)

The 1-1 Chargers and the 0-2 Colts are both high-scoring teams with suspect defenses. In fact, the four games involving these teams have produced a total of 230 points. The sample is obviously small, but Indy is on a pace to give up 584 points – which would be 108 more than the worst defensive team in the league (New Orleans) allowed last season. Adding fuel to the fire is that San Diego has scored the second-most points in the league this season, just one fewer than Carolina. The total here opened at 50.5 and was quickly bet up to 51.5.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 3

Thursday, September 22

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HOUSTON (2 - 0) at NEW ENGLAND (2 - 0) - 9/22/2016, 8:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 87-49 ATS (+33.1 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) as a home underdog of 3 points or less since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 92-66 ATS (+19.4 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 174-133 ATS (+27.7 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 100-73 ATS (+19.7 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
HOUSTON is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.

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

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Sunday, September 25

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DENVER (2 - 0) at CINCINNATI (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
DENVER is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 2-0 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
CINCINNATI is 1-1 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OAKLAND (1 - 1) at TENNESSEE (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 40-76 ATS (-43.6 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
OAKLAND is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in road games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 8-24 ATS (-18.4 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 8-24 ATS (-18.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 5-19 ATS (-15.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

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

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ARIZONA (1 - 1) at BUFFALO (0 - 2) - 9/25/2016, 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.

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BALTIMORE (2 - 0) at JACKSONVILLE (0 - 2) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) in September games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
JACKSONVILLE is 2-0 against the spread versus BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
JACKSONVILLE is 1-1 straight up against BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CLEVELAND (0 - 2) at MIAMI (0 - 2) - 9/25/2016, 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.

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WASHINGTON (0 - 2) at NY GIANTS (2 - 0) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 53-78 ATS (-32.8 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.

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

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DETROIT (1 - 1) at GREEN BAY (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 126-162 ATS (-52.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.

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

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MINNESOTA (2 - 0) at CAROLINA (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 74-49 ATS (+20.1 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
CAROLINA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 155-118 ATS (+25.2 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
CAROLINA is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 16-3 ATS (+12.7 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 16-3 ATS (+12.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in road 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 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 13-2 ATS (+10.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) off a division game over the last 2 seasons.

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

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SAN FRANCISCO (1 - 1) at SEATTLE (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 23-40 ATS (-21.0 Units) in a road game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points since 1992.
SAN FRANCISCO is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points over the last 3 seasons.

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

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LA RAMS (1 - 1) at TAMPA BAY (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA RAMS is 172-215 ATS (-64.5 Units) in all games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 172-215 ATS (-64.5 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 14-30 ATS (-19.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
LA RAMS is 82-110 ATS (-39.0 Units) in road games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 82-110 ATS (-39.0 Units) in road lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 16-34 ATS (-21.4 Units) in a road game where the total is between 38.5 and 42 points since 1992.
LA RAMS is 124-170 ATS (-63.0 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
LA RAMS is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 56-84 ATS (-36.4 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
LA RAMS is 32-52 ATS (-25.2 Units) in September games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) off a win against a division rival over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA RAMS is 2-0 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
LA RAMS is 2-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PITTSBURGH (2 - 0) at PHILADELPHIA (2 - 0) - 9/25/2016, 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.

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NY JETS (1 - 1) at KANSAS CITY (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 19-34 ATS (-18.4 Units) against AFC East division opponents since 1992.

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

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SAN DIEGO (1 - 1) at INDIANAPOLIS (0 - 2) - 9/25/2016, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 91-63 ATS (+21.7 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
SAN DIEGO is 26-3 ATS (+22.7 Units) against AFC South division opponents since 1992.
SAN DIEGO is 24-10 ATS (+13.0 Units) in dome games since 1992.
SAN DIEGO is 44-25 ATS (+16.5 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.

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

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CHICAGO (0 - 2) at DALLAS (1 - 1) - 9/25/2016, 8:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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Sunday, September 26

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ATLANTA (1 - 1) at NEW ORLEANS (0 - 2) - 9/26/2016, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 29-50 ATS (-26.0 Units) in home games versus division opponents since 1992.

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

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Week 3

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Trend Report
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Thursday, September 22

8:25 PM
HOUSTON vs. NEW ENGLAND
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games when playing New England
Houston is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing New England
New England is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games at home
New England is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Houston


Sunday, September 25

1:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. MIAMI
Cleveland is 2-10-1 ATS in its last 13 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games on the road
Miami is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 6 games when playing Cleveland

1:00 PM
BALTIMORE vs. JACKSONVILLE
Baltimore is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Jacksonville
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing on the road against Jacksonville
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Jacksonville's last 8 games
Jacksonville is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Baltimore

1:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. NY GIANTS
Washington is 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games when playing on the road against NY Giants
Washington is 1-7 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against NY Giants
NY Giants are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games at home
NY Giants are 7-1 SU in their last 8 games when playing at home against Washington

1:00 PM
DETROIT vs. GREEN BAY
Detroit is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing Green Bay
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Green Bay's last 5 games at home
Green Bay is 14-3 SU in its last 17 games at home

1:00 PM
ARIZONA vs. BUFFALO
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games
Buffalo is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. CAROLINA
Minnesota is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Carolina's last 6 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Carolina's last 6 games

1:00 PM
DENVER vs. CINCINNATI
Denver is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Denver is 1-2-2 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Cincinnati is 13-6 SU in its last 19 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing Denver

1:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. TENNESSEE
Oakland is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games on the road
Oakland is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Tennessee
Tennessee is 0-4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Tennessee is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Oakland

4:05 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. SEATTLE
San Francisco is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
San Francisco is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Seattle
Seattle is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Francisco
Seattle is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games

4:05 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. TAMPA BAY
Los Angeles is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
Tampa Bay is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games

4:25 PM
NY JETS vs. KANSAS CITY
NY Jets are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games when playing Kansas City
NY Jets are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games
Kansas City is 12-2 SU in its last 14 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 6 games when playing at home against NY Jets

4:25 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. INDIANAPOLIS
San Diego is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Indianapolis
San Diego is 11-3 SU in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Indianapolis
Indianapolis is 1-12 ATS in its last 13 games when playing at home against San Diego
Indianapolis is 1-7 ATS in its last 8 games when playing San Diego

4:25 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. PHILADELPHIA
Pittsburgh is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Philadelphia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home

8:30 PM
CHICAGO vs. DALLAS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Dallas
Chicago is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
Dallas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
Dallas is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games


Monday, September 26

8:30 PM
ATLANTA vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing New Orleans
Atlanta is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 5 games at home
New Orleans is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta

[StarDust Bum]

NFL ACTION TRENDS

ATS

8:30 pm 9/25/2016
(487) CHICAGO @(488) DALLAS
Play AGAINST DALLAS against the spread in All games in games played on turf.
The record is 1 Wins and 10 Losses for the last two seasons (-10 units)
BET NOW!

4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(477) SAN FRANCISCO @(478) SEATTLE
Play AGAINST SAN FRANCISCO against the spread in All games in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points.
The record is 1 Wins and 10 Losses for the last three seasons (-10 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(463) OAKLAND @(464) TENNESSEE
Play AGAINST TENNESSEE against the spread in All games against conference opponents.
The record is 1 Wins and 10 Losses for the last two seasons (-10 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(475) MINNESOTA @(476) CAROLINA
Play ON MINNESOTA against the spread in All games in all games.
The record is 16 Wins and 3 Losses for the last two seasons (+12.7 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(463) OAKLAND @(464) TENNESSEE
Play AGAINST TENNESSEE against the spread in All games against conference opponents.
The record is 3 Wins and 19 Losses for the last three seasons (-17.9 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(475) MINNESOTA @(476) CAROLINA
Play ON MINNESOTA against the spread in All games in all lined games.
The record is 16 Wins and 3 Losses for the last two seasons (+12.7 units)
BET NOW!

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


NFL ACTION TRENDS

Money Line


8:30 pm 9/26/2016
(489) ATLANTA @(490) NEW ORLEANS
Play AGAINST NEW ORLEANS using the money line in All games in September games.
The record is 1 Wins and 8 Losses for the last three seasons (-12.9 units)
BET NOW!

4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(479) LA RAMS @(480) TAMPA BAY
Play AGAINST TAMPA BAY using the money line in Home games in games played on a grass field.
The record is 3 Wins and 13 Losses for the last three seasons (-14.05 units)
BET NOW!

4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(477) SAN FRANCISCO @(478) SEATTLE
Play ON SEATTLE using the money line in All games off a division game.
The record is 11 Wins and 1 Losses for the last three seasons (+10.9 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(461) DENVER @(462) CINCINNATI
Play ON DENVER using the money line in All games in all games.
The record is 17 Wins and 4 Losses for the last two seasons (+12.5 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(461) DENVER @(462) CINCINNATI
Play ON DENVER using the money line in All games in all lined games.
The record is 17 Wins and 4 Losses for the last two seasons (+12.5 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(463) OAKLAND @(464) TENNESSEE
Play AGAINST TENNESSEE using the money line in All games in home lined games.
The record is 2 Wins and 15 Losses for the last three seasons (-14.2 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(469) CLEVELAND @(470) MIAMI
Play AGAINST CLEVELAND using the money line in All games in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points.
The record is 1 Wins and 10 Losses for the last three seasons (-11 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(475) MINNESOTA @(476) CAROLINA
Play ON CAROLINA using the money line in All games against conference opponents.
The record is 14 Wins and 1 Losses for the last two seasons (+12.6 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(473) DETROIT @(474) GREEN BAY
Play ON GREEN BAY using the money line in Home games off a loss against a division rival.
The record is 25 Wins and 3 Losses since 1992 (+21.1 units)
BET NOW!

8:25 pm 9/22/2016
(301) HOUSTON @(302) NEW ENGLAND
Play ON NEW ENGLAND using the money line in Home games against conference opponents.
The record is 15 Wins and 1 Losses for the last three seasons (+13.8 units)
BET NOW!

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NFL ACTION TRENDS

Half Time

4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(479) LA RAMS @(480) TAMPA BAY
Play ON LA RAMS in the first half in All games as an underdog vs. the 1rst half line.
The record is 18 Wins and 3 Losses for the last three seasons (+14.7 units)
BET NOW!

4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(479) LA RAMS @(480) TAMPA BAY
Play AGAINST TAMPA BAY in the first half in Home games against conference opponents.
The record is 1 Wins and 11 Losses for the last three seasons (-11.1 units)
BET NOW!


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


NFL ACTION TRENDS

Under


8:30 pm 9/26/2016
(489) ATLANTA @(490) NEW ORLEANS
Play UNDER ATLANTA on the total in All games against conference opponents.
The record is 2 Overs and 11 Unders for the last two seasons (+8.8 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(467) BALTIMORE @(468) JACKSONVILLE
Play UNDER BALTIMORE on the total in All games against AFC South division opponents.
The record is 8 Overs and 27 Unders since 1992 (+18.2 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(475) MINNESOTA @(476) CAROLINA
Play UNDER MINNESOTA on the total in All games after 2 or more consecutive wins.
The record is 0 Overs and 8 Unders for the last three seasons (+8 units)
BET NOW!

[StarDust Bum]

NFL ACTION TRENDS

Half Time Under


4:05 pm 9/25/2016
(477) SAN FRANCISCO @(478) SEATTLE
Play UNDER SEATTLE on the first half total in All games as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points vs. the first half line.
The record is 0 Overs and 8 Unders for the last two seasons (+8 units)
BET NOW!

1:00 pm 9/25/2016
(473) DETROIT @(474) GREEN BAY
Play UNDER DETROIT on the first half total in Road games against conference opponents.
The record is 1 Overs and 11 Unders for the last three seasons (+9.9 units)
BET NOW!

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Close Calls - Week 2
September 20, 2016


Glancing at the scoreboard won’t tell you the whole story in most games. Here are some of the games that went down to the wire relative to the spread in the fourth quarter last week in Week 2 of the NFL regular season.

Tennessee Titans (+6) 16, Detroit Lions 15 (48): The Lions looked ready to be a surprise 2-0 squad with a 15-3 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Marcus Mariota found Delanie Walker for a touchdown pass to start the final frame, getting within the number with a five-point deficit for Tennessee. The Titans got two defensive stops to get the ball back and Mariota delivered with a long drive that ended with veteran Andre Johnson snagging the go-ahead touchdown catch on a fourth down play. The Lions moved to midfield, but the game ended with a Matthew Stafford interception.

New England Patriots (-6) 31, Miami Dolphins 24 (42): The Patriots had a big early lead, but lost Jimmy Garoppolo and the Dolphins rallied to within seven points with about six minutes to go. New England’s next drive lasted 13 plays and nearly got into the final minute of game clock, but a 39-yard field goal try was missed right. Miami threatened on its final possession reaching the New England 29-yard before failing on third and fourth down as New England held on for the win and narrow cover.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-3) 24, Cincinnati Bengals 16 (47½): The Steelers led 24-9, but Cincinnati scored a touchdown with under four minutes to go to get within eight points. The Bengals had a productive drive going again, but just after the two minute warning a fumble was lost in Pittsburgh territory as hope for the underdog and the ‘over’ faded away.

Dallas Cowboys (+3) 27, Washington Redskins 23 (47): Washington led 23-20 to sit even with the spread through three quarters with both NFC East squads looking for their first wins. With under five minutes to go, the Cowboys converted a touchdown drive to take a 27-23 lead, collecting for the ‘over’ in the process as well. Washington had a throw to the end zone at the end of the game but it was deflected out of the end zone.

New York Giants (-3½) 16, New Orleans Saints 13 (54): This game played out far lower scoring than anyone expected with a 10-3 New York edge heading into the fourth quarter and the only touchdown of the game coming on a blocked field goal return. That changed in the final frame with the Saints tying the game at 10-10 early and then an exchange of field goals left a 13-13 tie heading into the final minutes. New York was able to use the entire remaining clock to go 70 yards, kicking a field goal for the win as time expired, but leaving the narrow underdog cover for the Saints.

Carolina Panthers (-11½) 46, San Francisco 49ers 27 (44½): The Panthers took control in the middle quarters turning a 10-7 deficit into a 31-10 lead by the start of the fourth quarter. The spread result would be a toss-up in the final frame as the 49ers closed to within 11 points with scores within seven seconds of game clock following a fumbled kickoff catch. Carolina rallied to get a field goal going up by 14, but two plays later, the 49ers were in the end zone and within seven points as the outcome remained in doubt. The Panthers again were able to add three points, but the 10-point edge wasn’t going to be enough for those on the favorite. An interception gave Carolina another shot and the Panthers added a touchdown, although the extra-point was blocked in a potentially important play with the line hovering between -13 and -13½ most of the week. The 49ers had another interception from Blaine Gabbert and it was Carolina that added an additional three points to hang on for the heavy favorite cover.

Denver Broncos (-6) 34, Indianapolis Colts 20 (47): This AFC clash was tied 13-13 well into the third quarter with some missed opportunities on both sides. Denver added a field goal to lead by three heading into the final quarter and the Broncos cashed in with a 46-yard interception return touchdown to take a 10-point lead. Indianapolis answered posting an 80-yard touchdown drive to climb within three with four minutes to go in the game. The Broncos settled for a field goal just after the two-minute warning to lead 26-20, but those on Denver and the ‘over’ were bailed out as the spread and total results flipped on a 15-yard fumble return touchdown for the Broncos. Indianapolis did get past midfield as the clock wound down but another sack on Andrew Luck ended the final threat.

Atlanta Falcons (+4) 35, Oakland Raiders 28 (48): Atlanta led 21-14 heading into the fourth quarter, but the Raiders tied the game early in the fourth quarter. The Oakland defense couldn’t hold however as Atlanta would score two more touchdowns to lead by 14 while sealing the ‘over’ result. Oakland did add another touchdown, but Atlanta was able to pick up a first down to burn most of the clock and seal the win.

Minnesota Vikings (+1½) 17, Green Bay Packers 14 (43): The Vikings took control in the middle quarters behind great play from the defense and new quarterback Sam Bradford, leading 17-7. Green Bay was able to finish a 75-yard dive with much of the yardage coming on a pass interference penalty just as had been the case on the first Packers touchdown and it was a three-point game in the final frame. Green Bay got the ball back and had a new set of downs at the Minnesota 40-yard line with a touchdown capable of flipping the spread result, but Aaron Rodgers was sacked and fumbled. The Vikings picked up one first down, but couldn’t burn that much of the clock as the Packers drove near midfield again in the final two minutes. Another turnover ended the threat and the Vikings were just barely able to run out the remaining seconds to seal the win in their new stadium.

Philadelphia Eagles (+3) 29, Chicago Bears 14 (43): After a tight first half, the Eagles pulled away with two touchdowns in the final minute of the third quarter, the second of which came following a Jay Cutler interception. A fumble in the fourth quarter lined up another short field for the Eagles and with a 29-7 lead, all that was left to settle was the total. Behind Brian Hoyer, the Bears reached the Philadelphia 19-yard line, but those on the ‘over’ needing another score didn’t get it as the Eagles held on second, third, and fourth-and-1 plays. Philadelphia was forced to punt a few minutes later and Eddie Royal delivered a 65-yard return touchdown for the scoring to reach the closing number of 43 though depending on the timing ‘over’ and ‘under’ results were possible as the Eagles did not add points despite taking the ball well into Chicago territory on its final drive.

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NFL WEEK 3 WAGERING ANGLES

19th Sep 2016 | By: Cole Ryan

With two weeks completed in the NFL season, the football handicapper most likely feels like they have a good grasp on the league. Some teams are still undefeated and other teams are undoubtedly still looking for their first win, but the football bettor will have to dig deeper if they want to find the best bets. Winning football games against the spread always includes a lot of work. If you are not ready to put in the time it will cost you at the betting window.

Week 3 Football Wagering Angle: Bet on the Undefeated Underdog

The team that enters week three without a loss is a team that can be considered on a roll. It may be surprising by many football handicappers to see an undefeated team as an underdog in week three. However the point spread is dictated by many different variables. These teams could be on the road or the line could be adjusted due to injuries. Regardless of the reason, the undefeated underdog in week three has been a profitable bet. All-time, teams that start 2-0 and are underdogs in the third game of the season are 54-45-3 (55% ATS).

Last year two teams were in this spot as the Cincinnati Bengals were small underdogs at the Baltimore Ravens and the Dallas Cowboys were similar tiny pups against the Atlanta Falcons. The Cowboys were playing in their first game without quarterback Tony Romo and they failed to win and cover while the Bengals managed to get the road victory over the Ravens as one point underdogs.

Week 3 Football Wagering Angle: Don’t Give up on the Losers

Week three is still early in the regular season, but the NFL fan and the football handicapper are both very unforgiving followers. They will easily give up on the team that starts the season 0-2 SU. When a team begins 0-2 SU on the season the stat that inevitably pops up is the one that says a team has trouble making the playoffs if they start the season 0-2. These teams become even more unbearable to bet on if they also failed to cover the spread in the first two games of the season. However that could be a big mistake. All-time, teams that lose their first two games and fail to cover in both contests are 106-87-3 (55% ATS) in their next game. Last year there were nine teams that qualified for this angle and they managed to finish 5-4 ATS in week three of the regular season.

The theory is that the team that has yet to win a game has plenty of pressure to get into the win column. The team that has yet to win and cover has most likely lost games that were not close and have even more pressure to get the job done. The bottom line is that just because a few weeks in the NFL have passed there is no reason to overreact to a team that has won both games to start the season or has yet to win a football game.
For week three look for teams that are undefeated or have yet to win a game to find a profit!

[StarDust Bum]

HOUSTON TEXANS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS NFL PICK, ODDS, & PREDICTION

19th Sep 2016 | By: Adam Burke

Matchup: Houston Texans at New England Patriots
Date/Time: September 22, 8:25 p.m. ET
TV: CBS
NFL Betting Odds From BetDSI Sportsbook
Spread: Houston -1.5
Total: 41

Getting by without Tom Brady wasn’t supposed to be this difficult. Nor was it supposed to be this easy. If that sounds like a contradiction, it most definitely is, but the New England Patriots hit Week 3 with a 2-0 record. Unfortunately, they now have a much bigger question than they expected at the quarterback position. Jimmy Garoppolo is sidelined for this short week home game against the Houston Texans and the Patriots will either go with Jacoby Brissett or somebody signed off the street for this primetime tilt on Thursday. As a result, Houston is road chalk at Foxboro.

This is the 11th time since 2001 that the Patriots have been catching points at home. They are 9-2 straight up and 10-1 against the spread. It’s only the fourth time since 2005 that the Patriots have been in an underdog role at home. It does make some sense, given the major uncertainty at the quarterback position and the fact that the Texans are off to a solid 2-0 SU and ATS start. On the other hand, Bill Belichick doubters were out in full force in Week 1 and the Patriots went to Arizona and won outright as more than a touchdown dog. New England was favored by 3.5 points before the Garoppolo injury.

Perhaps Bill O’Brien’s familiarity with the Patriots is coming into play here. O’Brien knows the personnel pretty well, even though he’s been the head coach of the Texans for three years now. The Texans offense hasn’t been prolific though two weeks, but it’s been solid and that’s more than enough with a defense like this. It would help, however, if Brock Osweiler took care of the football. The former Arizona State product is 41-of-68 for 499 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. Even though Lamar Miller’s 189 yards through two games sounds impressive, he has done it on 53 carries and the team is only averaging 3.3 yards per attempt. Will Fuller and DeAndre Hopkins are two legit weapons, with 21 catches for 378 yards and three touchdowns. Outside of Lamar Miller, no other skill player has more than five catches, so there does seem to be a balance issue here, which is leading to Osweiler’s interception rate.

Defensively, it’s very hard to throw on the Texans. They have a tremendous secondary and a top-notch pass rush. The Texans already have nine sacks and 11 passes defended. It’s hard to move the football in chunks through the air on Houston, which is why they’ve held the opposition to just 26 points this season. Establishing the run has been useful against the Houston defense, as the Texans have allowed 4.9 yards per carry. Kansas City ran for 6.3 yards per carry, but they couldn’t stay on the field and committed too many turnovers and penalties. This could be one of those cases where perception and overreaction are starting to cloud the judgment of the betting market. This game won’t be the best example, with an unproven or journeyman quarterback on a short week, but watch the Texans in the coming weeks.

Jacoby Brissett should get the start for the Patriots, as it would be crazy to bring in somebody with a short week, but it’s fair to see why people are panicking a little bit. Brissett is not a guy that has been in the system for a long time, but he has been studying the playbook since he was drafted out of North Carolina State in the third round. The Patriots don’t do anything without a reason, so he came off the board earlier than other QBs for a reason. Brissett looked pretty good in his time. He was sacked a couple of times, but he was 6-of-9 for 92 yards and ran for three first downs. Now, he knows he’s the guy and Josh McDaniels can construct a plan around that. Running the ball better would help, as LeGarrette Blount has only managed 3.8 yards per carry. Rob Gronkowski, who missed Weeks 1 and 2, is questionable this week.

The Patriots don’t have the Texans pass rush, but this is an organization that always fields a quality, overlooked defense. Even with Chandler Jones traded for financial reasons, the Patriots haven’t missed a beat. They’ll have their hands full with the Texans offense, though the Patriots defense has faced two very skilled offenses already. Stopping the run is a necessity for the Patriots, who have given up 4.6 yards per carry, but they have also forced three turnovers and Brock Osweiler has been passing out gifts early in the season. New England’s linebackers are excellent in coverage, so it will be interesting to see how the chess match goes between two coaches that know each other very well.

NFL Free Pick: New England Patriots +1.5

Nobody has gotten rich betting against the New England Patriots. Is this an awful spot for them? Absolutely. But, the Houston Texans have expectations for the first time since Matt Schaub was a useful NFL QB. They are 2-0 with two nice wins, but they seem a bit overrated. Is the drop from Jimmy Garoppolo to Jacoby Brissett worth the five points that the line moved? Time will tell, but it doesn’t seem like Houston is all that it’s cracked up to be and the Patriots are more than just a Tom Brady or Jimmy Garoppolo-led offense.

[StarDust Bum]

2016 THURSDAY NIGHT NFL FOOTBALL ODDS

10th Sep 2016 | By: Aaron Ryan

2016 Thursday Night Football

Checkout passed season results below. Spread are the future lines posted on April 21, 2016, spread will be updated each week and live odds checkout our odds page.
Quick Breakdown of Results, for details scroll to bottom:

2 year Average points scored 44.05

2 year Average margin of victory 12.9

2 year Favorites 21-11-2

Over 17-17

Home Teams are 10-8 SU, 9-7-2 ATS

WK Matchup Spread SCORE ATS/OU SU

1 Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos +3/40.5 20-21 UnderDog/Over Broncos

2 New York Jets vs Buffalo Bills -1/40.5 31-31 UnderDog/Over Jets

3 Houston Texans at New England Patriots -8

4 Miami Dolphins at Cincinnati Bengals -6.5

5 Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers +6

6 Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers +3

7 Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers -9

8 Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans PK

9 Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Bucs -1.5

10 Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens -8.5

11 New Orleans at Carolina Panthers -10

12 Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions – 12:30 p.m. ET 2.5

12 Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys – 4:30 p.m. ET -3.5

12 Pittsburgh Steelers at Indianapolis Colts – 8:30 p.m. ET 1.5

13 Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings -4.5

14 Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs -4.5

15 LA Rams at Seattle Seahawks -10

16 New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles -2.5


In 2015 the Under was the play finally going 11-7, Favorites came out in front again with 10-6-2 record.

2015 Thursday Night Football

WK Matchup Spread SCORE ATS/OU SU

1 Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots -7/51 21-28 Push/Under Patriots

2 Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs -3/41.5 31-24 Underdog/Over Broncos

3 Washington Redskins at New York Giants -3/45 21-32 Favorite/Over Giants

4 Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers +3/44 23-20 Push/Under Ravens

5 Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans -4/41 27-20 Favorite/Over Colts

6 Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints +3/52.5 21-31 Underdog/Under Saints

7 Seattle Seahawks at San Francisco 49ers +6.5/41.5 20-3 Favorite/Under Seahawks

8 Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots -8/51.5 07-36 Favorite/Under Patriots

9 Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals -13/45.5 10-31 Favorite/Under Bengals

10 Buffalo Bills at New York Jets -2.5/41.5 22-17 Underdog/Under Bills

11 Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars -3/41 13-19 Favorite/Under Jaguars

12 Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions – 12:30 p.m. ET (CBS) -3/47 27-23 Favorite/Over Lions

12 Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys – 4:30 p.m. ET (FOX) -1/44.5 33-14 Favorite/Over Panthers

12 Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers – 8:30 p.m. ET (NBC) -8/45 17-13 Underdog/Under Bears

13 Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions +2/46 27-23 Favorite/Over Packers

14 Minnesota Vikings at Arizona Cardinals -10/46.5 20-23 Underdog/Under Cardinals

15 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at St. Louis Rams -1/41 23-31 Favorite/Over Rams

16 San Diego Chargers at Oakland Raiders -4/45 20-23 Underdog/Under Raiders

Average Score 41.5

Average Margin of Victory 9.3


In 2014 the Over was again the dominate trend going 10-6, with a 2 year record of 20-11, This year Favorites ruled going 11-5.

2014 Thursday Night Football

WK Matchup Spread Score ATS Result SU Winner

1 Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks -5.5/47 36-16 Favorite/Over Seattle

2 Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens -2.5/43.5 26-6 Favorite /Under Baltimore

3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons -7/47 56-14 Favorite/Over Atlanta

4 N. Y. Giants @ Washington Redskins -3.5/45 14-45 Underdog/Over NY Giants

5 Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers -8.5/47 42-10 Favorite/Over Green Bay

6 Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans 3/46 28-33 Favorite/Over Indianapolis

7 N. Y. Jets @ New England Patriots -9.5/45 27-25 Underdog/Over New England

8 San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos -9/51.5 35-21 Favorite/Over Denver

9 New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers +3/49 10-28 Favorite/Under New Orleans

10 Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals -6/45 3-24 Underdog/Under Cleveland

11 Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins -3.5/41 22-9 Favorite/Under Miami

12 Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders +7.5/42.5 24-20 Underdog/Over Oakland

13 Chicago Bears @ Detroit Lions -7/48 34-17 Favorite/Over Detroit

14 Dallas Cowboys @ Chicago Bears 3.5/52 28-41 Favorite/Over Dallas

15 Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams -5.5/40.5 12-6 Underdog/Under Arizona

16 Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jags -4/39 13-21 Favorite/Under Jacksonville

2014 Average points scored 46.6

2014 Average margin of victory 16.6

In 2013 Underdogs went 9-5-1 ATS and the “Over” hit 10 out of 15 times!

2013 Thursday Night Football

WK Matchup Score ATS Result SU Winner Line/OU

1 Baltimore Ravens @ Denver Broncos 49-27 Favorite/Over Denver -7.5/48.5

2 N. Y. Jets @ New England Patriots 13-10 Underdog/Under New England -11/43

3 Kansas City Chiefs @ Philadelphia Eagles 26-16 Underdog/Under Kansas City -3/51

4 San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams 35-11 Favorite/Over San Francisco 3.5/43

5 Buffalo Bills @ Cleveland Browns 37-24 Favorite/Over Cleveland -3.5/41

6 N. Y. Giants @ Chicago Bears 27-21 Underdog/Over Chicago -8/47

7 Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals 34-22 Favorite/Over Seattle 5/41

8 Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-13 Favorite/Over Carolina 7/39

9 Cincinnati Bengals @ Miami Dolphins 22-20 Underdog/Under Miami 2.5/42.5

10 Washington Redskins @ Minnesota Vikings 34-27 Underdog/Over Minnesota 1/49

11 Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans 30-27 Push/Over Indianapolis -3/42

12 New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons 17-13 Underdog/Under New Orleans 8/53

13 Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens 22-20 Underdog/Over Baltimore -3/40.5

14 Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars 27-20 Underdog/Over Jacksonville -3/43.5

15 San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos 27-20 Underdog/Under San Diego -10/57

2013 Average points scored 48.1

2013 Average margin of victory 9.33

Whether or not you are in favorite of the Thursday night NFL action, it does break up the week a little bit. It also gives football fans and bettors something to look forward to in anticipation of the weekend. Attempting to capitalize on growing Thursday night TV ratings, the NFL now has at least one game on TV every Thursday night during the season, except for Week 17. That includes the “Season Kickoff” game on September 10 and, of course, the Thanksgiving holiday.

In the past, these matchups haven’t always been exciting, as the league has thrown some of the league’s bottom feeders into the Thursday night fire as sacrificial lambs. In looking at this season’s Thursday Night Football lineup, that appears to be a thing of the past. There are some excellent, marquee matchups for the Thursday night crowd to enjoy this season.

These standalone primetime games are big draws for the NFL and big draws for the sportsbooks as well. Players are inclined to have action with just one game that they know they are going to watch anyways. In looking at the Sunday Night Football and Monday Night Football schedules, it’s safe to say that the 2015 Thursday Night Football schedule rivals the traditional powerhouse matchups that NBC and ESPN are going to enjoy this season.

Since 2006, the NFL has had these Thursday Night Football games. It may have taken them all that time to get the matchups right, but Thursday nights are going to be a lot more exciting this season than in years past. If you want to get in on the action, and you know you do, we recommend BetDSI. The promo code BANG200 will open up a 200 percent sign-up bonus for you. How can you beat that?

For Thursday nights, the opening kickoff game will be on NBC in Week 1. From Week 2 through Week 8, CBS and NFL Network will simultaneously air the Thursday night matchups. From Week 9 to Week 16, games will exclusively be on NFL Network. All games kick off at 8:25 p.m. ET unless otherwise noted. For current Thursday night football odds checkout our Live Lines

Wow! The NFL seems to have realized just how much they can capitalize on these Thursday night matchups because the first 12 games are all division rivalries. These aren’t all division rivalries like the Tennessee Titans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars, although, one of the scheduled games will be a matchup of Marcus Mariota against Blake Bortles. There are some heavy hitters here.

The Denver Broncos will have just one week to work out the kinks with new head coach Gary Kubiak before taking on a stout Kansas City Chiefs defense. The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers play their two meetings this season in primetime, with the first one in Week 4 on Thursday night and the second one during Week 17 on Sunday Night Football. An Andrew Luck vs. JJ Watt matchup awaits in Week 5 in a game that will generate a lot of buzz if the Houston Texans can get off to a good start.

You might feel the bumps and bruises of the October 22 game between the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers from your couch or barstool as both teams will amp up the hitting for that annual bloodbath. Could the upstart Miami Dolphins make a big statement at Gillette Stadium in Week 8 against the New England Patriots? The Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions open up the final month of the season with some fireworks in Week 13. Interesting matchups with playoff implications round out the remaining weeks of the season.

Whether the game you’re most interested in is on Thursday night, Sunday afternoon, Sunday night, or Monday night, ***********.com should be your home for NFL coverage all season long.

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2016 MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL ODDS & PICKS

10th Sep 2016 | By: Aaron Ryan

One of the most beloved weekly sporting events is Monday Night Football. It’s hard to find anybody that has never heard Hank Williams Jr. belt out “Are you ready for some football?” Monday Night Football is a global phenomenon nowadays, as the games are broadcast in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Portugal, Brazil, and other countries.

The brainchild of Roone Arledge in 1970, this weekly event has been a staple of the National Football League and a favorite of bettors since the inception of Monday Night Football. Now on ESPN, it is the last chance for gamblers to get back some of Sunday’s losses or build off of a profitable weekend before looking ahead to the next week. Because of television ratings, primetime football often draws some of the best matchups, as fans, bettors, oddsmakers, bookies, and people that don’t even care about football gather around the tube and enjoy.

Don’t let the NFL fool you. They know that fantasy football and NFL betting drive the ratings bonanza that they see every Thursday, Sunday afternoon, and especially on Sunday night and Monday night. Oddsmakers are prepared for these primetime matchups because they draw some of the biggest betting handles of the week. Shouldn’t you be prepared as well?

The 2016 Monday Night Football schedule is one of the best in recent memory and every game features profit potential for the astute handicapper. We recommend BetDSI for all of your NFL needs, including Monday Night Football, because an exclusive 200 percent sign-up bonus awaits with the promo code BANG200. Impress your friends and coworkers on Monday morning with your knowledge of the odds for the game and the upcoming week of action courtesy of our Live Lines page and then make your wagers and sit back and cheer your side or total on to victory.

Here is a look at the 2016 Monday Night Football schedule (all games 8:15 p.m. ET unless otherwise noted) we also listed the Opening CG Technology Odds from April 21st, checkout our matchup page for updated odds:

Date Game Preview & Pick Opening Odds 4/21/16

Sept. 12 Pittsburgh Steelers @ Washington Redskins Steelers -3

Sept. 12 St Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers Rams -2

Sept. 19 Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears Bears -2.5

Sept. 26 Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints Saints -1.5

Oct. 3 New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings Vikings -6

Oct.10 Tampa Bay Bucs @ Carolina Panthers Panthers -10

Oct. 17 New York Jets @ Arizona Cardinals Cardinals -4

Oct. 24 Houston Texans @ Denver Broncos Broncos -6.5

Oct. 31 Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears Vikings -2.5

Nov. 7 Buffalo Bills @ Seattle Seahawks Seahawks -10

Nov. 14 Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Giants Bengals -2

Nov. 21 Houston Texans @ Oakland Raiders Raiders -2

Nov. 28 Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles Packers -3.5

Dec. 5 Indianapolis Colts @ New York Jets Jets -2

Dec. 12 Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots Patriots -9

Dec. 19 Carolina Panthers @ Washington Redskins Panthers -3

Dec. 26 Detriot Lions @ Dallas Cowboys Cowboys -5


Quick Breakdown of Results, for more details scroll to bottom:

2 year Average points scored 46.79

2 year Average margin of victory 8.8

2 year Favorites 11-23-1 ATS

2 year Over 17-17 ATS

Last year Division faves went 1-2-1 ATS with the total going under 4 out of 4 times
What a great list of games! Long-standing division rivalries get their time to shine and some compelling cross-conference matchups featuring prospective playoff teams like Baltimore vs. Arizona, the New York Giants vs. Miami, Chicago vs. San Diego, and Kansas City vs. Green Bay. The atmosphere is always electric for these games and the crowd’s involvement is just another example of how much Monday Night Football means to football fans. Check back every week as we add links to our Monday Night Football game previews to give you the best, most detailed picks and prognostications.

The beauty of Monday Night Football is that you never know what you’re going to see. Remember Terrell Owens’s infamous “Sharpie” touchdown celebration on October 14, 2002 that sent shockwaves through the NFL? How about Mike Vick’s six touchdown performance in Philadelphia’s blowout win over Washington on November 15, 2010? John Elway and Joe Montana traded touchdowns for the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs back in 1994 in one of the most memorable MNF games ever. Tony Dorsett’s 99-yard touchdown run was a MNF highlight in 1983. The New Orleans Saints returned to the Superdome first the first time after Hurricane Katrina did severe damage to the facility for Monday Night Football on September 25, 2006 in front of a boisterous sell-out crowd and won 23-2 over the Atlanta Falcons. Remember Joe Theismann’s broken leg? The replacement refs in 2012 with the unbelievable Green Bay vs. Seattle finish? There are so many more memorable moments that we can’t possibly list all of them. How can you not love Monday Night Football?

We’re excited about another season of Monday Night Football on ESPN and you should be as well. Keep it tuned right here to *********** for informative NFL previews on every game, especially the Monday Night Football matchups. Don’t forget to make BetDSI your home for betting on football throughout the 2015 regular season. Their reputation is second to none in the industry and the amount of wagering options for big games like Monday Night Football include fair side and total lines, a collection of prop bets, halftime wagering, and live betting.

In 2015 Favorites went 4-12-1, with Underdogs winning straight-up 8 out the 12 wins. Overs/Unders 5-12

2015 Monday Night Football

WK Matchup Spread Score ATS Result SU Winner

1 Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons +3/55 24-26 Underdog/Under Falcons

1 Minnesota Vikings at San Francisco 49ers +2.5/41.5 3-20 Underdog/Under 49ers

2 New York Jets at Indianapolis Colts -6/45 20-7 Underdog/Under Jets

3 Kansas City Chiefs at Green Bay Packers -4.5/47 28-38 Favorite/Over Packers

4 Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks -10/43 10-13 Underdog/Under Seahawks

5 Pittsburgh Steelers at San Diego Chargers -4/45.5 24-20 Underdog/Under Steelers

6 New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles -3.5/50.5 7-27 Favorite/Under Eagles

7 Baltimore Ravens at Arizona Cardinals -10/49.5 18-26 Underdog/Under Cardinals

8 Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers -5/45.5 26-29 Underdog/Over Panthers

9 Chicago Bears at San Diego Chargers -3.5/49 22-19 Underdog/Under Bears

10 Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals -10/46.5 10-6 Underdog/Under Texans

11 Buffalo Bills at New England Patriots -7/47.5 13-20 PUSH/Under Patriots

12 Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns -6/41 33-27 Underdog/Over Ravens

13 Dallas Cowboys at Washington Redskins -2/43 19-16 Underdog/Under Cowboys

14 New York Giants at Miami Dolphins +2.5/47.5 31-24 Favorite/Over Giants

15 Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints -2.5/52 35-27 Favorite/Over Lions

16 Cincinnati Bengals at Denver Broncos -4/39 17-20 Underdog/Under Broncos

2015 Average points scored 41.47

2015 Average margin of victory 7.12


In 2014 Underdogs again came out ahead going 10-7 ATS, the total went “Over” 12-5, scoring was up almost 7 points from the previous year while the margin of victory remained the same.

2014 Monday Night Football

WK Matchup Spread Score ATS Result SU Winner

1 N. Y. Giants @ Detroit Lions -6/46.5 35-14 Favorite/Over Detroit

1 San Diego Chargers @ Arizona Cardinals -3/44.5 18-17 Underdog/Under Arizona

2 Philadelphia Eagles @ Indianapolis Colts -3/53.5 27-30 Underdog/Over Philadelphia

3 Chicago Bears @ N. Y. Jets -3/46 19-27 Underdog/Over Chicago

4 New England Patriots @ Kansas City Chiefs +3/45 41-14 Underdog/Over Kansas City

5 Seattle Seahawks @ Washington Redskins +7/45.5 17-27 Favorite/Under Seattle

6 San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams -3.5/43.5 17-31 Favorite/Over San Francisco

7 Houston Texans @ Pittsburgh Steelers -3/44.5 30-23 Favorite/Over Pittsburgh

8 Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys -9/49 17-20 Underdog/Under Washington

9 Indianapolis Colts @ N. Y. Giants +3/50.5 24-40 Favorite/Over Indianapolis

10 Carolina Panthers @ Philadelphia Eagles -6/45 45-21 Favorite/Over Philadelphia

11 Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans -7/46 24-27 Underdog/Over Tennessee

12 Baltimore Ravens @ New Orleans Saints -3.5/56 27-34 Underdog/Over Baltimore

13 Miami Dolphins @ N. Y. Jets -6.5/42 13-16 Underdog/Under NY Jets

14 Atlanta Falcons @ Green Bay Packers -12.5/56 43-37 Underdog/Over Atlanta

15 New Orleans Saints @ Chicago Bears +3/53.5 31-15 Favorite/Under New Orleans

16 Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals +3.5/47 28-37 Underdog/Over Cincinnati

2014 Average points scored 52.1

2014 Average margin of victory 10.47


In 2013 Underdogs went 9-7-1, the total went “Under” 9-8

2013 Monday Night Football

Week Matchup Spread Score ATS Result SU Winner

1 Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins -4/52 33-27 Underdog/Over Philadelphia

1 Houston Texans @ San Diego Chargers 3/44 31-28 Underdog/Over Houston

2 Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals -7/40 20-10 Favorite/Under Cincinnati

3 Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos -16/48.5 37-21 Push/Over Denver

4 Miami Dolphins @ New Orleans Saints -7/50 38-17 Favorite/Over New
Orleans

5 N. Y. Jets @ Atlanta Falcons -10/45 30-28 Underdog/Over N. Y. Jets

6 Indianapolis Colts @ San Diego Chargers 1.5/51 19-9 Underdog/Under San Diego

7 Minnesota Vikings @ N. Y. Giants -4/47.5 23-7 Favorite/Under N. Y. Giants

8 Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams 12/43.5 14-9 Underdog/Under Seattle

9 Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers -10.5/51.5 27-20 Underdog/Under Chicago

10 Miami Dolphins @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2.5/40 22-19 Underdog/Over Tampa Bay

11 New England Patriots @ Carolina Panthers -3/46.5 24-20 Favorite/Under Carolina

12 San Francisco 49ers @ Washington Redskins 5/45.5 27-6 Favorite/Under San Francisco

13 New Orleans Saints @ Seattle Seahawks -6.5/49.5 34-7 Favorite/Under Seattle

14 Dallas Cowboys @ Chicago Bears -1/49 45-28 Favorite/Over Chicago

15 Baltimore Ravens @ Detroit Lions -5/50.5 18-16 Underdog/Under Baltimore

16 Atlanta Falcons @ San Francisco 49ers -14/46.5 34-24 Underdog/Over San Francisco

2013 Average points scored 45.4

2013 Average margin of victory 10.58

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Preview: Texans (2-0) at Patriots (2-0)
Date: September 22, 2016 8:25 PM EDT

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - Houston Texans cornerback Kevin Johnson remembers playing against Jacoby Brissett when both played in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

"I remember him being a good player, an athletic mobile quarterback," Johnson, who played at Wake Forest, said as his Texans prepared for Thursday night's game at the New England Patriots -- and against the rookie quarterback making his first NFL start.

"He's a guy who can make the throws, a great player we have to respect and prepare for."

Brissett, the former Florida and North Carolina State quarterback and No. 3 quarterback on the New England roster, moved up to No. 2 with the four-game Deflategate suspension of Tom Brady. Jimmy Garoppolo started the first two games but a shoulder injury to Garoppolo in the Week 2 win over the Dolphins shook up the depth chart again.

While coach Bill Belichick is unlikely to declare it fact, Brissett is almost certainly the starter when these two 2-0 teams get together at Gillette Stadium.

"He has really good poise, very smart guy," says Texans coach Bill O'Brien. "He's got good size. He's like 235 pounds. He's a good football player. When we evaluated him in the draft, we felt the same way then, too. He's a bright guy and he's coached very well there."

O'Brien was Belichick's offensive coordinator before O'Brien left to become head coach at Penn State. His defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel had the same job in New England. Linebackers coach Mike Vrabel played for the Patriots, as did nose tackle Vince Wilfork.

In short, the Texans know the Patriots.

But the familiarity with Brissett, who has played 34 minutes and attempted nine passes in the NFL, is another story.

Tuesday, Belichick didn't officially declare Garoppolo, who suffered a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder, out for the game. He was listed as a limited participant on the official practice report.

Belichick also wouldn't say if the Patriots were bringing in another quarterback. Wide receiver Julian Edelman, a quarterback in college at Kent State, would be available for emergencies.

"Jacoby's done a good job for us," Belichick said. "He's improved every day. He's a hard-working kid. He's in here early, stays late, studies the game. He's got good physical talent. He's improved steadily since he's been here -- after the draft and all way through."

Brissett was 6 of 9 and led his team to what turned out to be the winning touchdown drive early in the second half on Sunday. What was supposed to be a blowout turned close when the Miami Dolphins scored on three straight possessions and had a chance to tie.

The Texans have not allowed a touchdown in six quarters and Houston notched wins over the Bears and Chiefs to come to Foxborough as a rare road favorite.

"The Texans are very good on defense ... they take the ball away, they create long-yardage situations, they're one of the best third-down teams in the league again this year, which they've been in the past," said Belichick, whose offense has been missing tight end Rob Gronkowski (hamstring) for the first two games and may not have him again. "They don't give up many points. The biggest challenge is always scoring points - that's the name of the game, that's what we play for. They haven't given up many. I'm sure it won't be easy to score - we'll have to do a good job, execute well."

Belichick was asked by the Houston media via conference call if star defensive end J.J. Watt reminds him at all of Lawrence Taylor, the Hall of Fame linebacker he coached as an assistant with the Giants. The pair are the only two players ever to win NFL defensive player of the year honors three times.

"They both play pretty hard, yeah," Belichick said. "I think J.J. is a relentless, a relentless player. Very instinctive and I'd say a lot like Taylor, when at the most critical times in the most important plays, that's where those guys showed the most and that's what great players do."

The New England defense, which is missing key pass-rushing linebacker Rob Ninkovich (suspension), shut Ryan Tannehill out in the first quarter Sunday, but then saw the Dolphins' quarterback throw for 389 yards in the last three quarters.

Brock Osweiler, the quarterback who played such an important part in the Denver Broncos' run to the title last year, is 41 of 68 for 499 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions in his first two games running the Houston offense.

New England's LeGarrette Blount and Houston's Lamar Miller, the running backs for the two teams, have run for 193 and 189 yards, respectively, in the first two games.