The Bum's 2017 NFL Trends/Stats/News/Picks Thru The Super Bowl

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Titans QB Marcus Mariota's status still unclear vs. Miami
October 4, 2017

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Tennessee Titans coach Mike Mularkey says quarterback Marcus Mariota is still unclear for their upcoming matchup with the Miami Dolphins.

The Titans coach remains hopeful that Mariota will play despite a strained hamstring .

Mariota, who was hurt in last week's loss to Houston, was limited in practice, stretching and throwing passes during the open portion of the workouts on Wednesday. The quarterback did not speak with the media after practice.

The Titans (2-2) signed Brandon Weeden to a one-year deal Tuesday as a third quarterback, and Mularkey says Weeden's familiarity with the Titans' offense was the deciding factor.

Mularkey says he was not aware if Tennessee considered Colin Kaepernick. But Mularkey says he knows Kaepernick is not familiar with their offense like Weeden and T.J. Yates.

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Patriots TE Gronkowski questionable for Thursday
October 4, 2017

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was listed as questionable to play in Thursday's road game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a thigh injury.

Gronkowski was limited in Wednesday's practice after being a full participant in each of the previous two days for New England (2-2).

The 28-year-old leads the Patriots in receiving yards (318) to go along with his 20 catches and two touchdowns in four games.

Gronkowski played in all 70 of the team's offensive snaps in a 33-30 loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. He did not mention an injury when meeting with reporters on Tuesday.

"Just to prepare for a Thursday night game is totally a lot different," Gronkowski said of his preparation. "You're on top of it right away. You've got to be on top of your body right away starting yesterday, maybe do some overtime extra stuff tonight but to be ready, to be prepared you've got to go full in this week. Then in the back of your head you've got some rest over the weekend.

"So just go full in getting ready for the game Thursday night and you'll be good."

Cornerback Eric Rowe (groin) and running back Rex Burkead (ribs) have been ruled out for Thursday night's game versus the Buccaneers (2-1).

Linebackers Dont'a Hightower (knee) and Elandon Roberts (ankle), cornerback Stephon Gilmore (ankle), special teams player Matthew Slater (hamstring), starting right tackle Marcus Cannon (ankle) and defensive back Brandon King (hamstring) are also questionable.

[StarDust Bum]

Raiders comfortable with EJ Manuel replacing Carr at QB
October 4, 2017

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) Jack Del Rio believes the Raiders are better equipped to handle the loss of Derek Carr than they were late in the 2016 season when the starting quarterback suffered a season-ending broken leg.

Back then, Oakland had minimal experience to lean on. Journeyman backup Matt McGloin started the regular-season finale but injured his left shoulder and was knocked out of the game. Rookie Connor Cook, a fourth-round draft pick who replaced McGloin and made his first career start the following week in the playoffs, didn't fare much better.

Del Rio expects things to be different with EJ Manuel running Oakland's offense while Carr recovers from a broken bone in his back.

''Last year in the playoff game we had a rookie making his first start,'' Del Rio said Wednesday. ''Obviously a lot better situation to have a guy who's taken snaps in the league, started games and will have time to prepare. It's a lot different scenario.''

Manuel will make his first start of the season when the Raiders play the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at the Coliseum.

The 16th-overall pick and the first quarterback drafted in 2013, Manuel had some positive moments after replacing Carr late in the third quarter last week against Denver. He completed his first eight passes, threw for 106 yards and directed a scoring drive before throwing an interception in the final two minutes after moving Oakland inside the Broncos' 40-yard line.

That experience, along with his past as a backup in Buffalo, has Manuel feeling confident heading into Sunday.

''The only issue was the pick at the end,'' Manuel said. ''I wish I would have took it down and ran or maybe checked it down or threw the ball outside a little more for (wide receiver Amari Cooper) to help him out.''

Other than getting the majority of reps in practice, Manuel hasn't altered his daily routine much. Everything has remained the same, from the time he arrives in the morning to eat breakfast with Carr until the time he hops in his car to head home for the night.

Oakland's offense isn't expected to change much either.

Manuel and offensive coordinator Todd Downing worked together when both were in Buffalo during the 2014 season when Downing served as the Bills' quarterbacks coach. Manuel was also teammates with Raiders center Rodney Hudson in college at Florida State.

''I'm looking at this as an opportunity that's before me,'' Manuel said. ''I'm not necessarily looking at it as a second chance because I'm on the team. I want to go out here and help our team win.''

The only adjustments will likely come from Oakland's wide receivers.

''All quarterbacks throw a little bit different,'' Cooper said. ''I think EJ throws the ball a little bit harder. I'll have to adjust to that.''

Manuel could have a full complement of wide receivers to throw to this week. Michael Crabtree, who was held out of last week's game in Denver because of a chest injury, practiced and Del Rio is optimistic the veteran wideout will play against the Ravens.

Notes: Cornerback David Amerson was limited in practice and is still in the concussion protocol. Right guard Gabe Jackson (foot) was held out of practice and worked out in a pool along with Carr. In Jackson's absence, Vadal Alexander worked at right guard with the first-team offense. First-round draft pick Gareon Conley (shin) and defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. (back) were both held out.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL
Dunkel

Week 5

Thursday, October 5

New England @ Tampa Bay

Game 303-304
October 5, 2017 @ 8:25 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New England
141.225
Tampa Bay
128.419
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New England
by 13
51
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New England
by 5
55 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New England
(-5); Under


Sunday, October 8

LA Chargers @ NY Giants

Game 451-452
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Chargers
127.558
NY Giants
132.377
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
NY Giants
by 5
43
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Giants
by 3
45
Dunkel Pick:
NY Giants
(-3); Under

Buffalo @ Cincinnati

Game 453-454
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Buffalo
136.995
Cincinnati
135.059
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Buffalo
by 2
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cincinnati
by 3
39
Dunkel Pick:
Buffalo
(+3); Over

NY Jets @ Cleveland

Game 455-456
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Jets
123.218
Cleveland
128.765
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 5 1/2
43
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Jets
by 1
39
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(+1); Over

Jacksonville @ Pittsburgh

Game 457-458
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Jacksonville
129.932
Pittsburgh
142.389
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Pittsburgh
by 12 1/2
38
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
by 8
43 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Pittsburgh
(-8); Under

Tennessee @ Miami

Game 459-460
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tennessee
128.479
Miami
120.492
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tennessee
by 8
29
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Tennessee
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Tennessee
N/A

San Francisco @ Indianapolis

Game 461-462
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Francisco
126.618
Indianapolis
122.061
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 4 1/2
55
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indianapolis
by 2
44
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco
(+2); Over

Arizona @ Philadelphia

Game 463-464
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Arizona
133.219
Philadelphia
132.520
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona
by 1
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
by 6 1/2
45
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona
(+6 1/2); Over

Carolina @ Detroit

Game 465-466
October 8, 2017 @ 1:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Carolina
136.795
Detroit
134.632
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Carolina
by 2
47
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Detroit
by 2 1/2
43 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Carolina
(+2 1/2); Over

Seattle @ LA Rams

Game 467-468
October 8, 2017 @ 4:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
134.433
LA Rams
129.405
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 5
61
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Rams
by 1 1/2
47
Dunkel Pick:
Seattle
(+1 1/2); Over

Baltimore @ Oakland

Game 469-470
October 8, 2017 @ 4:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Baltimore
123.823
Oakland
132.383
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Oakland
by 8 1/2
36
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oakland
by 2 1/2
39
Dunkel Pick:
Oakland
(-2 1/2); Under

Green Bay @ Dallas

Game 471-472
October 8, 2017 @ 4:25 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Green Bay
131.998
Dallas
136.682
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Dallas
by 4 1/2
51
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Dallas
by 2
52 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Dallas
(-2); Under

Kansas City @ Houston

Game 473-474
October 8, 2017 @ 8:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Kansas City
147.926
Houston
138.588
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas City
by 9 1/2
44
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
Pick
47
Dunkel Pick:
Kansas City
Under


Monday, October 9

Minnesota @ Chicago

Game 475-476
October 9, 2017 @ 8:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Minnesota
132.779
Chicago
127.969
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 5
35
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
N/A

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Thursday, October 5

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Thursday Night Football Betting Preview and Odds: Patriots at Buccaneers
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New England Patriots at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+5.5, 54)

Tom Brady is finally up against a defense that he might not be able to overcome -- his own. Despite a sensational start to the season by two-time league MVP Brady, the New England Patriots have allowed three of their first four opponents to score at least 30 points as they prepare to visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night.

The reigning Super Bowl champions have already lost twice at home following Sunday's 33-30 setback to the Carolina Panthers -- a division rival of Tampa Bay. "We haven't been really in control too often," said Brady, who rallied his team from a 14-point, fourth-quarter deficit in Sunday's last-second loss. "We are all really focused on trying to do a much better job than what we've done." The Buccaneers, who had their Week 1 matchup postponed due to Hurricane Irma, have sandwiched a pair of home wins around a 17-point loss at Minnesota. Quarterback Jameis Winston is coming off his best game of the season and gets back top running back Doug Martin, who returns after a suspension for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

TV: 8:25 p.m. ET, CBS.

POWER RANKINGS: Patriots (-7) - Bucs (-0.5) + home field (-3) = Patriots -3.5

LINE HISTORY: The Patriots opened as five-point road favorites and overnight Wednesday that number went up to 5.5. The total hit the betting boards at 53.5 and that number jumped two full points up to 55.5 before dropping back to 54 heading into game day.

INJURY REPORT:

Patriots - TE Rob Gronkowski (Probable, Thigh), OL M. Cannon (Questionable, Ankle), CB S. Gilmore (Questionable, Ankle), LB D. Hightower (Questionable, Knee), WR M. Slater (Questionable, Hamstring), RB R. Burkhead (Out, Ribs), DB E. Rowe (Out, Groin), DB B. King (Questionable, Hamstring), LB E. Roberts (Questionable, Ankle), DT V. Valentine (Out, Knee), WR M. Mitchell (Out, Knee), LB S. McClellin (I-R, Undisclosed), OL A. Jelks (Out, Knee), WR J. Edelman (I-R, Knee), CB C. Jones (I-R, Knee), DL K. Davis (I-R, Neck), OL T. Garcia (Out, Illness), DE D. Rivers (I-R, Knee).

Buccaneers - LB K. Alexander (Out, Hamstring), S T. Ward (Doubtful, Hip), S K. Tandy (Doubtful, Hip), LB L. David (Out, Knee), QB R. Griffin (Out, Shoulder), DL D. Lambert (I-R, Wrist), DT S. Tu'ikolovatu (I-R, Knee), DE J. Trattou (I-R, Undisclosed).

ABOUT THE PATRIOTS (2-2 SU, 1-3 ATS, 4-0 O/U): Brady turned in a pedestrian effort in the season opener but he has thrown for 10 touchdowns and zero interceptions over the past three games while completing at least 71 percent of his passes in each. Tight end Rob Gronkowski has 18 receptions and two touchdowns while averaging 95 yards receiving over the past three, but wide receiver Brandin Cooks has been inconsistent in his first season with the team. The ground game also has been spotty, although running back James White has a team-high 22 receptions. The defense has been a sieve, allowing a staggering 456.8 yards per game -- by far the league worst -- and ranking 31st with 32.0 points per game.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (2-1 SU, 1-2 ATS, 2-1 O/U): It's unclear how much of a role Martin, a two-time 1,000-yard rusher, will play in his season debut, although Jacquizz Rodgers rushed for 83 yards on 16 carries. Winston, the top overall pick in 2015, bounced back from a three-interception performance at Minnesota by throwing for 332 yards and three touchdowns to rally Tampa Bay to a 25-23 win over the New York Giants on Sunday. He connected with each of his tight ends -- Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard -- for TD passes last week but Mike Evans is his favorite target with 19 catches for 227 yards and two scores. Injured linebackers Lavonte David and Kwon Alexander are both expected to sit out their second straight game.

TRENDS:

* Patriots are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games in Week 5.
* Buccaneers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 Thursday games.
* Over is 8-0 in Patriots last 8 games overall.
* Over is 7-0 in Buccaneers last 7 Thursday games.
* Favorite is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 meetings.

CONSENSUS: The public is siding with the road chalk Patriots at a rate of 58 percent and the Over is picking up 61 percent of the totals action.

[StarDust Bum]

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 5

GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS

NE at TB 08:25 PM

TB +5.0 *****

U 54.0 *****

[StarDust Bum]

NFL notebook: Panthers QB Newton loses Dannon endorsement
October 5, 2017

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was sacked by one of his sponsors on Thursday and his coach said he made a mistake.

Dannon has dropped Newton from its group of celebrity endorsers after he made a sexist remark during Wednesday's press conference with beat reporters.

When asked a question from Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer, Newton smirked before saying, "It's funny to hear a female talk about routes."

Dannon apparently didn't find the humor and promptly dropped Newton from its Oikos yogurt commercials. The 28-year-old had been featured in those commercials since 2015.

Meanwhile, Panthers coach Ron Rivera said he felt Newton didn't handle the press conference question well.

"I think Cam made a mistake," Rivera said. "I understand he had a conversation where he pretty much said he shouldn't have said what he said. As far as I'm concerned, what I'd like to do is talk about the Detroit Lions, who we play on Sunday."

--New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was inactive for Thursday night's game at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

ESPN and the NFL Network, each citing sources, reported the standout tight end will miss the game due to a thigh injury.

Gronkowski was a full participant in practice Monday and Tuesday but was listed as limited in Wednesday's practice session, which was a walkthrough for the Patriots (2-2).

--Washington Redskins wide receiver Terrelle Pryor wrote on social media that he was called a racial slur, prompting him to make an obscene gesture toward the crowd as he exited the field at Monday night's game in Kansas City.

The postgame exchange as caught on video showed a fan shouting obscenities, with Pryor returning verbal fire and flipping his middle finger. Pryor turned toward the fan, but was restrained by Redskins strength and conditioning coach Chad Englehart.

The NFL is reviewing all aspects of the incident, a league spokesman said Thursday, including what took place in the stands. Pryor said he was initially put off by a fan calling him the "N-word" during the Redskins' 29-20 loss.

--The Los Angeles Chargers waived rookie kicker Younghoe Koo and brought back veteran Nick Novak to replace him.

Koo, an undrafted free agent from Georgia Southern, missed half his six field goal attempts for the winless Chargers (0-4), including a pair with the game on the line in the first two weeks. Koo was the fourth South Korea-born person to play in the NFL.

Novak, 36, was cut by Houston at the end of preseason. He spent the past two seasons with the Texans, converting a career-high 35 field goals in 41 attempts in 2016. Novak played for the Chargers for four seasons (2011-14) and is the second-most accurate kicker in franchise history, converting on 86.3 percent (101 of 117) of his chances.

--Defensive end Myles Garrett, the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, is expected to make his professional debut Sunday against the New York Jets.

Garrett practiced on a limited basis Wednesday and Thursday and is finally ready to take the field for Cleveland, which is off to an 0-4 start.

Garrett was injured during a practice session on Sept. 6 when a teammate inadvertently fell on his ankle. He practiced for the first time since the incident on Sept. 29 but was held out of last week's 31-7 drubbing by Cincinnati.

--The Minnesota Vikings signed Stevan Ridley and placed fellow running back Dalvin Cook on injured reserve, the team announced.

Cook sustained a season-ending ACL tear in Sunday's 14-7 loss to the Detroit Lions. The rookie recorded 74 carries for 354 yards and two touchdowns in four games for the Vikings (2-2), who visit the Chicago Bears on Monday night.

Ridley had brief stints with the Lions, Indianapolis Colts and Atlanta Falcons in 2016 after playing in eight games with the New York Jets the previous season. The 28-year-old was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2011 and enjoyed his best season in 2012, when he had 290 carries for 1,263 yards and 12 touchdowns.

--The Tampa Bay Buccaneers promoted safety Isaiah Johnson from the practice squad ahead of Thursday's game against the visiting New England Patriots.

The Buccaneers released defensive end Jacquies Smith to open the roster spot for Johnson, who could see action in place of fellow safeties T.J. Ward and Keith Tandy. Ward and Tandy are listed as doubtful to play for Tampa Bay (2-1) against New England (2-2) due to hip injuries.

Smith, who has yet to play this season, sustained a torn ACL in Week 1 of 2016 and missed the rest of that ca

[StarDust Bum]

Brady throws for 303 yards, Patriots hold off Bucs 19-14
October 5, 2017

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) Tom Brady threw for 303 yards and one touchdown, and New England's porous defense showed signs of improvement Thursday night in a 19-14 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Super Bowl champions rebounded from a last-second loss to Carolina, despite Brady turning the ball over twice - on his first interception in eight regular-season games and a fumble on one of Tampa Bay's three sacks.

Neither of the mistakes led to points for Tampa Bay (2-2), which was unable to do much offensively until the fourth quarter.

Brady threw a 5-yard TD pass to Chris Hogan in the second quarter, and Stephen Gostkowski kicked field goals of 27, 23, 45 and 48 yards for the Patriots (3-2).

Jameis Winston rallied Tampa Bay late with an 18-yard TD pass to Cameron Brate that trimmed New England's lead to 16-14 with 2:09 remaining. He marched the Bucs from his 25 to the Patriots 19 before throwing an incompletion on the final play.

It might not have come down to a last-second drive if not for another poor performance by Bucs kicker Nick Folk.

Folk missed two field goals and an extra-point before beating the New York Giants on a last-second kick last week. He missed three more field goals Thursday night, including a 31-yarder that would have cut a nine-point deficit to six in the closing minutes.

With his 186th career regular-season win as a starter, Brady tied Brett Favre and Peyton Manning for the most by a quarterback in NFL history. He also has 25 postseason victories, including five Super Bowls.

Defensively, the Patriots entered the night on pace to yield more than yards than any team in league history.

And, Winston and a young Tampa Bay offense that's progressively gotten better since he was selected first overall in the 2015 draft was hoping to be the latest beneficiary of New England's struggles.

Running back Doug Martin provided a lift in his return from a suspension for violating the NFL's policy on performance enhancers with 74 yards rushing and one TD.

But one week after throwing for 332 yards and three touchdowns without an interception and overcoming a pair of fourth-quarter deficits to beat the Giants, Winston was unable to move the ball consistently until the fourth quarter.

The Bucs didn't have a third-down conversion until late in the third quarter, and Martin's 1-yard TD came on a drive the Patriots kept alive with a hands-to-the-face penalty on third down.

Winston finished 26 of 45 with 334 yards and zero interceptions. DeSean Jackson had five receptions for 106 yards.

Playing without injured tight end Rob Gronkowski (thigh), Brady finished 30 of 40 with one interception.

STREAK ENDS

Brady opened the game with four straight completions before throwing his first interception of the season, overthrowing a wide-open Hogan in the middle of the field to end a streak of 264 pass attempts without an interception.

BOUNCING BACK

Since 2003, New England is 44-6 in regular-season games following a loss. The Patriots have dropped back-to-back games only six times during that time span - in 2006, 2009, 2011, 2012 and twice in 2015. As a starter, Brady is 44-10 in games following a loss.

RING OF HONOR

The Buccaneers honored Malcolm Glazer at halftime, inducting the late owner into the Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium.

Glazer, whose family still runs the team, died in 2014 at the age of 85. He purchased the franchise in 1995 for a then-record $192 million.

The late owner joins Hall of Famers Lee Roy Selmon, Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks, as well as former coach John McKay, Doug Williams, Jimmie Giles, Mike Alstott, John Lynch and Paul Gruber inductees. Former coach Jon Gruden, who led the Bucs to their only Super Bowl title after being acquired in a trade Glazer approved 15 years ago, will be inducted on Dec. 18.

INJURIES

Patriots: Gronkowski was added the injury report after Wednesday's practice, listed as questionable. ... The Patriots did not report any injuries during the game.

Buccaneers: Played with three defensive starters - LBs Lavonte David (ankle) and Kwon Alexander (hamstring), and S Keith Tandy (hip). Tandy's backup T.J. Ward (hip) was inactive, too. ... DB Josh Robinson left the game in the first half with a concussion. ... DE Ryan Russell injured his shoulder in the second quarter and did not return.

UP NEXT

Patriots: At New York Jets on Oct. 15

Buccaneers: Begin stretch in which they'll play six of eight games on the road, visiting Arizona on Oct. 15.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL Record For Sept......Based on 5 units ( Best Bets and Opinons )

Totals...................41 - 30 - 1...........57.74%...........+ 40.00

Best Bets:

Best Bets Total.............7 - 6......+2.00............7 - 7.........- 3.50................- 1.50


Dog Of The Month........1 - 0

Total Of the Day...........1 - 0


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NFL Record For Oct......Based on 5 units ( Best Bets and Opinons )

10/05/2017 1-0-1 100.00% +5.00
10/02/2017 1-1-0 50.00% -0.50
10/01/2017 9-12-0 42.86% -21.00


Best Bets:...................ATS...................Unit s........... ..O/U.............Units...............Total

10/05/2017.................0 - 0 - 1.............0.00.............1 - 0...........+5.00................+ 5.00

10/02/2017.................1 - 0................+5.00.............0 - 1............-5.50.................- 0.50

10/01/2017.................4 - 4.................-2.00.............2 - 2............- 1.00.................- 3.00

Sunday Night 2 Team Parlay...........................0 - 1.................................-5.00

[StarDust Bum]

Friday’s six-pack

NFL trends to ponder with Week 5 upon us……..

— Cardinals are 3-12 vs spread in their last 15 games.

— Oakland is 11-25 in its last 36 games as a home favorite.

— Kansas City covered eight of its last nine games.

— Packers are 4-11 in last 15 games as an underdog.

— Carolina is 16-6 in its last 22 games as a road underdog.

— Giants covered 7 of last 9 games against AFC opponents.

*********************************

Friday’s List of 13: Things I’m looking for this weekend…….

13) Green Bay won six of last seven games vs Dallas, beating Cowboys in playoffs two of last three years; they won 37-36/34-31 in last two visits to Big D. 4:25 game on FOX will be a big one, mainly because Dallas is 2-2 after going 13-3 last season.

12) Miami-Florida State was rescheduled to here after the hurricanes last month; now there is the threat of more rain. Miami scored 83 points in winning its first two I-A games, but they’ve lost their last seven games with Florida State.

11) Bengals got their first win last week; they led by 2 TD’s at halftime in Green Bay the week before, but lost in overtime. Cincy needs to beat the 3-1 Bills here; they’re 6-2-1 in their last nine pre-bye games. Bills have allowed only 13.5 ppg in their 3-1 start.

10) LSU had some players-only meetings this week after their loss to Troy State; players-only meetings are not a good sign. Neither is the AD meeting with the coaches during the week. Florida lost one of its QB’s for the year LW; Gators won their first three SEC games despite nine their players still under suspensions. This should be a very interesting game.

9) Something has to give in Swamp Stadium, with 0-4 Chargers visiting 0-4 Giants. 14 years ago, the Chargers drafted Eli Manning, but Manning’s family didn’t want Eli playing for San Diego, so the Chargers traded him to New Jersey. Otherwise, Ben Roethlisberger would’ve likely become a Giant instead of a Steeler.

8) Utah is 4-0, but three of their next four games are against Stanford, USC, Oregon, so we’ll know everything we need to know about the Utes after that stretch.

7) Jets will be a surprising 3-2 if they can beat the winless Browns in Cleveland this week. Jets ran ball for 256 yards last week. Browns are -6 in turnovers already; they allowed 9.0/8.0 ypa in their last two games.

6) Michigan State is 7-2 in its last nine games with Michigan (9-0 vs spread); Wolverines’ defense has allowed 13.5 ppg, and they’ve played a decent schedule so far. This is first road game for the Spartans, who are 3-1— both teams are really young.

5) Seahawks-Rams is suddenly a big game with playoff implications in the NFC West. If the good guy— I mean, if the Rams win, they’ll be two games ahead of Seattle.

4) It’ll likely be a somber crowd in Las Vegas for the San Diego State-UNLV game, the first big outdoor event in Vegas since the shootings Sunday night. Aztecs are 5-0 and on a serious roll. UNLV is 2-2; this will be a great test for them.

3) Arizona won five of last six games with Philly, winning 40-17 in last visit here two years ago, but Cardinals are only 2-2 this year, with FG wins over Colts/49ers- shaky. Eagles won their last two games by a total of five points- this should be a good game.

2) Washington State won its last two games with Oregon, 52-33/45-38; they’ve covered their last seven games against the Ducks. This is Wazzu’s first true road game, coming off their emotional win over USC last week.

1) Chiefs are the only unbeaten team left in the NFL; short week for them here. KC won/covered their first four games, scoring 14 TD’s on 42 drives- they haven’t turned ball over in their last 3 games. Houston found itself a QB with rookie Watson- they scored 90 points in last two games.

[StarDust Bum]

ON FOOTBALL: First-place Eagles, Rams, Bills? Who knew?
October 6, 2017

Chew on this: First-place Eagles. First-place Rams. First-place Bills.

Throw in the Redskins and - sit down for this one - the Jets, and maybe these teams are a lot better than prognosticated when the season kicked off.

One month into the schedule, NFL teams usually have found their identity. Not so for most of the league in 2017, with the specific exceptions of the Chiefs at the top, the Browns, 49ers and Chargers at the bottom.

There are only eight clubs with losing records through one-quarter of the season, and a gaggle of 13 at 2-2 - including three in the AFC South. The break-even teams include the Patriots, Cowboys, Raiders and Seahawks.

All of them were considered, and probably still should be, as playoff favorites.

The fascinating stuff, though, focuses on those surprises, including that first-place trio not even their staunchest fans could have predicted would be up front at this point.

EAGLES (3-1)

Philadelphia bolted from the gate last season, winning three straight before stumbling to 7-9. This quick start has a different feel.

For one, Carson Wentz looks to have taken a major step in maturity as a quarterback. He doesn't try to force things, in part because of his comfort level with coach Doug Pederson's system. He also has more talent around him.

And more leadership with such veterans as Chris Long, LeGarrette Blount and Alshon Jeffery on board.

''Those are very helpful, beneficial, because they're a big impact to what we're doing and the success we've had this early part of the season,'' Pederson says.

''And the other thing, too, is these are veteran players who have been on, in Chris's case (and Blount's), on championship teams. They know how to work. They know how to practice. They know how to prepare. And that's what you want. You want those types of guys in and around your football team.''

Philly has some defensive issues to settle, with a series of injuries in the secondary and to star DT Fletcher Cox. The Eagles have allowed 52 points in the fourth quarter.

RAMS (3-1)

While most of Los Angeles concentrates on the Dodgers or USC or UCLA, the Rams quietly have put together an offense that is outperforming its purported strength, the defense. LA's 142 points easily lead the NFL, and Jared Goff has been a revelation in his first full season as a starter. He leads the league in four key passing categories.

Yes, the revitalization of 2015 Offensive Rookie of the Year Todd Gurley has been huge - Gurley is second rushing with 362 yards and has scored seven touchdowns (four rushing, three receiving). There's also been an influx of veteran talent here: T Andrew Whitworth, LB Connor Barwin and WR Sammy Watkins.

New coach Sean McVay, at 31 the youngest in NFL history, has energized the offense with his schemes and aggressiveness, while passing on the praise.

''I think what good coaches do is they put their players in situations to have success, but ultimately, those players are the ones that are making those plays,'' McVay says.

''You feel fortunate to be a part of that and I think the players have done a good job, but I also can't say enough about our coaching staff. Everybody talks about Jared and what he's done, and he's done an excellent job.

''But I also think it's important to know how heavily involved (offensive coordinator) Matt LaFleur and (QBs coach) Greg Olson are in his development and those day-to-day things where he's got an ownership on what we're trying to get done.''

BILLS (3-1)

The previous time the Bills made the playoffs, America was worrying about the Y2K virus. It's the NFL's longest postseason drought.

To say right now that Buffalo is on the verge of ending that streak is foolish. It's the third time since 2000 the team has been 3-1 or better. The Bills finished with losing records the previous two times.

Still, with a defense that has allowed the NFL's fewest points (54), and consecutive defensive masterpieces against Denver and Atlanta, the Bills shouldn't be dismissed.

If QB Tyrod Taylor remains efficient, outstanding running back LeSean McCoy stays healthy and productive, and the D continues to be dynamic, the Bills could have staying power.

REDSKINS (2-2)

Their performance in a loss at Kansas City was almost as impressive as their throttling of Oakland the previous week.

Undermanned and facing the league's only undefeated team, the Redskins were the better squad for much of the night.

Kirk Cousins, franchise-tag-be-damned, has elevated his game; he's been the NFC East's best QB so far. He's doing it with a so-so group of wideouts and a shuffling deck at running back.

Washington's defense has been the real discovery, though. A sieve for portions of last season, it has found a pass rush and, while not dominant, has been effective overall. But it's banged-up now, with top cornerback Josh Norman sidelined.

JETS (2-2)

The Jets made regular appearances in late-night monologues and prognostications of 0-16 seemed not that farfetched.

Well, they've won their past two games, both at home, and head to 0-4 Cleveland with a shot at a winning record.

Their offense has been much more capable than anyone imagined, and they appear to have two studs at safety in rookies Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye.

If they manage to win six times with this roster - other than a matchup with the Chargers, the schedule is rugged - Todd Bowles should be coach of the year.

Even if Andy Reid goes 16-0.

[StarDust Bum]

Giants-Chargers game features desperation
October 5, 2017

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) In any other year, a game between the Chargers and Giants would be a time to recall the 2004 draft-day trade when New York acquired No. 1 overall draft pick Eli Manning from San Diego in exchange for No. 4 pick Philip Rivers and a number of a draft picks, including a first-rounder the following year.

It would be a time to note that Manning led the Giants to two Super Bowl titles, and that the Chargers got a highly productive quarterback who has never led them to a title.

That's not the story this year, nor is the Chargers now playing in Los Angeles.

It's a matchup of two desperate 0-4 teams meeting at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

The Chargers, who have not made the playoffs since 2013, have lost nine straight games dating to late November. The Giants, who got to the playoffs last year for the first time since Manning led them to a second Lombardi Trophy in February 2012, have lost five straight, dating to the wild-card loss to the Packers.

Neither has much of a shot at getting to the playoffs this year. Since the NFL merger in 1970, only the 1992 Chargers have overcome losing the first four games to make the playoffs.

Neither team is thinking that far down the road with 12 games left in the regular season.

''I know the odds and the percentages and all that against an 0-4 team making a run and playing in January are super, super slim, but we're not worried about that,'' Rivers said. ''We're just trying to win a game right now and then hopefully we can get on a roll. I mean, we've lost so many in a row in a close fashion, so why not find a way to win a bunch in a row that way? But we've got to win one first. And I think this team just needs to win a game. It's been a long time since we felt winning a game.''

The Chargers and Giants may not be as bad as their records indicate. New York has lost its last two games on last-second field goals, and it played the Lions close for three quarters. Los Angeles has losses to the Broncos, Dolphins and Eagles by a combined seven points.

Manning isn't worrying about what has happened this season. The two-time Super Bowl MVP is just trying to work hard, hoping everyone follows his example.

''You can still have fun,'' said the 36-year-old Manning, now in his 14th season. ''Still have fun doing your job and it's still about enjoying the process of getting better, of figuring out how we're going to work. And getting them excited about the plays that are coming up, excited about the opportunities of where they might get the ball or how we're going to score and how we're going to win this game. It's just trying to do your job and make sure everybody sees how you're handling the circumstance.''

Here are some things to watch in Sunday's game:

GIANTS' O-LINE: It seems like the unit has been the focal point all season. This week is no different. Center Weston Richburg is in the concussion protocol and Brett Jones may start. D.J. Fluker started at right guard last week and could stay there. John Jerry has struggled all season whether playing right or left guard.

With right tackle Bobby Hart seemingly ready to return from an ankle injury, will Justin Pugh, who has played well replacing him, stay there or moves back to left guard. There is also the option to play Hart at left guard.

BOOKEND RUSH: The Chargers have two outstanding defensive ends in Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa. Ingram is tied for second in the league with 5+ sacks. Bosa has two. Los Angeles also can increase the pressure on passing plays by adding Chris McCain and defensive tackle Corey Liuget to the rush. Pugh also noted that the linemen move around, which can be confusing for opposing linemen. New York did not give up a sack in its loss to the Buccaneers last weekend.

RUNNING GAME: Rookie Wayne Gallman finally gave the Giants' a semblance of a running game. He had 11 carries for 42 yards and caught two passes for 8 yards, including a touchdown. Whether he replaces Paul Perkins (ribs) as the starter remains to be seen.

RIVERS/MANNING: Despite the losses, both veterans are playing well. Rivers has hit 63.3 percent of his passes for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns. The negative is four interceptions. Manning and the Giants' offense started slowly this season, but he has five touchdown passes in the last five quarters. He also ran for a rare TD against the Bucs.

BECKHAM'S TELL?: Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr. says that Tampa Bay cornerback Vernon Hargreaves told him after the game that the Bucs knew what routes he was going to run. It's hard to say whether Beckham had a tell or the Bucs' pre-game film study was that good. Still, Beckham had seven catches for 90 yards, so you have to wonder. ''It still just comes to the point where you have to trust it,'' Beckham said. ''We have to trust 10 (Manning) to make the throw like he did.''

[StarDust Bum]

Packers-Cowboys rivalry renewed
October 6, 2017
By The Associated Press
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From Lombardi and Landry through Reggie and Brett, Troy and Emmitt.

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From the tundra of Lambeau to the gap in the Texas Stadium roof to Jerry's palace.

Packers-Cowboys has been one of the NFL's most entertaining and meaningful rivalries for decades. Whether it was the Ice Bowl or A-Rod's impromptu pass to Jared Cook, people (and players and coaches) remember these matchups.

They'll be back at it on Sunday when Green Bay (3-1) visits Dallas (2-2).

''Ahhh, yeah,'' says Packers receiver Jordy Nelson, who leads the league with five TD catches. ''It's a good conversation, for the fans. There's a lot of history there in the past, and I think we've had a lot of history just recently, too, and we played them, I think in my 10 years nine times or so, eight times.

''And so it's just some big games; big games and some incredible finishes. Hopefully, there's another one.''

For anyone who really could forget it, this is a rematch of the Packers' 34-31 divisional playoff win in January when Aaron Rodgers completed a 35-yard pass to Jared Cook on third-and-20 with 3 seconds left. That set up Mason Crosby's 51-yard field goal as time expired.

Cowboys tight end Jason Witten recognizes why the Packers are so formidable, especially for Dallas.

''I just think the entire organization, what they've built, starts with Aaron Rodgers and the way he plays,'' Witten says. ''I think we have so much respect for their defense, Clay Matthews and the way they attack as a football team. They're a blueprint in a lot of ways, and more than anything they've played well at critical times throughout the last seven, eight, 10 years.''

The week's action began with New England's 19-14 victory at Tampa Bay.

Tom Brady threw for 303 yards and one touchdown, and New England's porous defense showed signs of improvement. The Super Bowl champion Patriot (3-2) rebounded from a last-second loss to Carolina, despite Brady turning the ball over twice - on his first interception in eight regular-season games and a fumble on one of Tampa Bay's three sacks. Neither of the mistakes led to points for Tampa Bay (2-2), which was unable to do much offensively until the fourth quarter.

Off this week are Washington (2-2), New Orleans (2-2), Atlanta (3-1) and Denver (3-1)

Seattle (2-2) at Los Angeles Rams (3-1)

Key game in the NFC West as the Rams, whose offense has been sizzling behind running back Todd Gurley and a rapidly improving QB Jared Goff, can establish their credentials against the division boss, Seattle. Gurley is back in 2015 Offensive Rookie of the Year form, gaining 215 yards from scrimmage in a win at Dallas. He has 596 yards rushing/receiving, second-highest total in the NFL to Chiefs rookie Kareem Hunt.

The Seahawks also have come alive on offense, gaining 910 yards overall in losing at Tennessee and beating Indianapolis at home. But rookie sensation RB Chris Carson broke his leg and is on injured reserve.

Kansas City (4-0) at Houston (2-2)

Unless the Texans lay an egg as they did against Jacksonville in the opener, they should provide a strong test for the league's only unbeaten squad. Kansas City has won 26 of its past 30 regular-season games, but never looked as good as now, with Andy Reid's offense humming behind Hunt and quarterback Alex Smith. Get this: The Chiefs have not committed a turnover since their first offensive play from scrimmage in Week 1, Hunt's fumble on his initial NFL carry. He's made up for it big time.

Houston has come on defensively even without J.J. Watt being the major force. Watt does not have a sack, but he has 4+ sacks, a forced fumble and fumble return combined in his past three meetings with KC.

Besides, DE Jadeveon Clowney has had three sacks, a forced fumble and fumble return for a touchdown in the past two games combined.

Carolina (3-1) at Detroit (3-1)

Cam Newton got himself in hot water off the field with his snide remark to a female reporter, hardly the kind of spotlight the Panthers need against Detroit. These should be bright days in Charlotte after Newton won a franchise-record 54th game last week at the Patriots. Newton was 22 for 29 for 316 yards with three TDs, one interception, and he ran for a score to extend the NFL QB record with 50 rushing TDs.

The Lions are an officiating review that overruled a last-minute touchdown away from being unbeaten. They lead the league with 11 takeaways and seven interceptions. Carolina is a minus-5, with Newton being picked off that many times.

The Panthers do have Julius Peppers back plaguing quarterbacks. Matthew Stafford knows the 37-year-old pass rusher all too well.

''He looks like the Julius Peppers I've played against my entire career,'' Stafford says. ''Obviously still extremely big and athletic, a ton of veteran savvy now, and he's playing really well. Getting in the backfield, disrupting loose plays, getting after the quarterback, doing it all.''

Arizona (2-2) at Philadelphia (3-1)

The Eagles haven't been doing it all - they rank 30th against the pass - yet they're atop the NFC's tough East division. In the clutch, Philly comes through, whether it's stopping the run (second overall) or finding balance with the ball. The Eagles have scored 20-plus points in eight consecutive games, the longest current streak in the NFL.

Arizona has taken four of the past five meetings, but these Cardinals are banged-up and can't run the ball. Carson Palmer and Larry Fitzgerald will be needed in a major way Sunday.

Jacksonville (2-2) at Pittsburgh (3-1)

Is there a more up-and-down bunch than the Jaguars? They romp in wins over Houston and Baltimore. They are inconsistent and at times inept, in losses to the Titans and Jets.

What the Jaguars can do is rush the passer (NFL-high 18 sacks) and force turnovers. Their 10 so far are only three fewer than all of last season.

It appears Antonio Brown and Ben Roethlisberger have made nice after the receiver's sideline tantrum in the victory at Baltimore. Brown may not think he gets enough looks, but he's second in the league in receptions (30) and yards receiving (388).

Buffalo (3-1) at Cincinnati (1-3)

Defense has been the key to Buffalo's surprising start and first-place standing in the AFC East. The Bills have held all four opponents to 17 or fewer points, a franchise record to start a season. Only once have they yielded 300 yards so far.

They could be tested by A.J. Green. The receiver has 15 catches for 174 yards and two TDs with new offensive coordinator Bill Lazor calling plays the past two games.

Minnesota (2-2) at Chicago (1-3), Monday night

Fans might be changing their viewing plans for what previously seemed a not-so-prime-time matchup.

With the Bears starting second overall draft choice Mitch Trubisky at quarterback for the ineffective Mike Glennon, it might be worth tuning in.

Minnesota doesn't exactly like Illinois, where it has dropped 14 of its past 16 road games, including one in Champaign. With outstanding rookie RB Dalvin Cook tearing the ACL in his left knee last week, Latavius Murray will get plenty of work, but he's still not 100 percent after being limited through training camp following right ankle surgery.

Tennessee (2-2) at Miami (1-2)

The Dolphins finally get a real home game. They haven't played at Hard Rock Stadium since Aug. 17, with Hurricane Irma forcing postponement of the opener. And they haven't played very well on the road, scoring a total of six points in the past two weeks. Their offense ranks dead last.

But Miami could get a break because Titans QB Marcus Mariota left last week's debacle in Houston with a hamstring problem. Matt Cassel is the unremarkable backup.

Baltimore (2-2) at Oakland (2-2)

Two weeks ago, these teams were undefeated. Then the Ravens' offense disappeared - the defense remains formidable - and the Raiders began getting hurt. In particular, quarterback Derek Carr damaged his back and will be replaced by E.J. Manuel this Sunday. Manuel must get better results on third downs: Oakland went 2 for 23 in the losses.

Takeaways could allow one team to, uh, take away the win. Baltimore leads the NFL with nine picks; Oakland has none. But the Ravens also have turned over the ball nine times.

New York Jets (2-2) at Cleveland (0-4)

OK, raise your hand if you thought the Jets would win two games this season, let alone in the opening month. Unless you work in Florham Park, New Jersey, and wear green jerseys on Sundays, we don't believe you.

Yet there they are, following up two road defeats with a pair of home victories over Florida teams. It seems unfathomable, but a victory at Cleveland could put the Jets on top of the division.

The Browns went 1-15 in 2016, winning in Game 15. For all the rebuilding and optimism, they appear to have regressed. Getting routed at home by previously winless Cincinnati was ugly.

Los Angeles Chargers (0-4) at New York Giants (0-4)

The 2004 draft's first round produced Eli Manning and Philip Rivers. Both have impressive - some would say Hall of Fame - credentials.

This is only the third time they have faced off, and the Chargers have won the past three meetings, including 2005 with Rivers sitting behind Drew Brees. At least the Chargers get to play in front of a big crowd for once.

San Francisco (0-4) at Indianapolis (1-3)

Good news out of Indy: Andrew Luck is practicing.

Bad news out of Indy: Luck is doing very limited work and there's no projection on when he can take the field in a game.

Good news out of San Fran ... hold on, we're still searching.

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday's Top 5 Wagers
October 6, 2017

We’ve had a month to figure things out, and the only thing we know for sure is that the 2017 season is going to be a rough one. The Week 5 NFL lines at BetOnline.ag have offered at least five games where you can lean heavy. The rest is up to you. Good luck and enjoy.

Arizona Cardinals +6.5 over Philadelphia Eagles

Wendall Smallwood is hurt, and if that’s the case, then the Cardinals are perfectly built to take on LaGarrette Blount. The trick here is that the Eagles have a very suspect secondary, allowing 285 yards per game. That’s the third worst in the NFL. And despite all that Carson Palmer’s done to make gamblers vomit with rage this year, he’s led a passing attack that ranked 2nd in the league and has a lot of options to put opponents on a kabob. The Cardinals are a lowly 0-4 ATS right now, but their defense can do a lot to keep Philly in check while their offense is designed to take advantage of where the Eagles are weakest.

Buffalo Bills +3.0 over Cincinnati Bengals

The Bills are for real. If a dominant win over Denver didn’t prove it, then a road win over Atlanta should’ve done the job. The oddsmakers are waiting for the bottom to fall out on these grinders, and are gifting you the natural home line. Don’t look this gift horse in the mouth. Kiss the gift horse and buy it dinner.

Detroit Lions -2.5 over Carolina Panthers

While the Panthers are coming off an awesome win against the Patriots, there’s still a lot to be concerned about. Veteran bettors know that the Panthers are inconsistent against the spread, going 1-6-1 ATS after covering the week before. Ignore the fact that the Panthers are 4-0 ATS when playing on the road. Two of those covers are against San Francisco and New England from this season.

Meanwhile, Detroit has not-so-quietly become one of the best teams in the league. The Lions have the 5th best scoring offence with just 17.5 points allowed, and haven’t unleashed their full offensive onslaught just yet. Matthew Stafford will have trouble against a defence that doesn’t allow big plays, but he’s also been relentless this season when it matters. Count on Caldwell and the Lions giving Stafford full permission to take over this game. When he does, the Panthers won’t have enough in the tank to keep up.

Oddly enough, you’re betting on Detroit’s defence being top shelf. I know that’s hard to believe, but what else do you expect in the most bizarre betting season ever?

Baltimore Ravens +2.5 over Oakland Raiders

This is gong to be ugly. Few teams have been as bad as Baltimore this season, but the Raiders are being oversold by all accounts. Not only are they relying on E.J. Manuel to replace a $125M quarterback, their defence is a lot leakier than you’d imagine. Oakland allows 353 yards per game which is only muffled by the fact that they give up a respectable 19.8 points per game.

At some point, Joe Flacco has to wake up and this seems like the perfect game to do so. The Raiders are gettable on the ground, and Baltimore can lean on one of three rushers in the forms of West, Allen and Collins. People are selling the Ravens very, very short because Flacco’s gon AWOL but betting on Oakland with an anemic set of skill players (yes, I’m talking about you Amari Cooper), and a backup quarterback is financial suicide.

Kansas City Chiefs -1.0 over Houston Texans (Sunday Night)

There’s no better option for anyone looking to pad their Week 5 wins, or chase their Week 5 losses. The Texans have looked completely different over the last two weeks, dropping 33 points on New England in a narrow loss and 57 points on Tennessee. Everyone wants to announce that DeShaun Watson has arrived.

Pump those breaks. Watson managed to go bananas against two of the worst pass defences and scoring defences in the entire league. The Chiefs have allowed an unhealthy amount of yards, ranking 27th in the league, but they also only allow 19.2 points against which is ranked 10th.

At this point, the Chiefs are also an automatic bet at 4-0 SU and ATS. The fact that they’re getting a non-existent line in this one is a Canadian Thanksgiving surprise. You don’t even have to worry. The shock of facing a competent defensive unit is going to disrupt the momentum that DeShaun Watson has built over the past two games. While most people are getting caught up in Texans-mania, you’re smarter than that.

If any team is deserving of some major hype it’s the Kansas City Chiefs.

[StarDust Bum]

Saturday’s six-pack

Some more NFL trends to ponder with Week 5 upon us……..

— Chargers are 0-8-1 vs spread in their last nine games.

— Panthers are 16-6 in last 22 games as a road underdog.

— Jets are 4-10-3 in last 17 games as a road underdog.

— Steelers are 10-3 vs spread in last 13 games as a non-divisional HF.

— Cincinnati is 7-14 vs spread in its last 21 games.

— Bears are 6-1-1 in last eight games as a home underdog.

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Six most popular picks for Week 4 in the Westgate Super Contest:

6) Kansas City Chiefs even, 615

5) Buffalo Bills +3, 650

4) Los Angeles Rams -1, 725

3) Houston Texans even, 778

2) Cincinnati Bengals -3, 847

1) Detroit Lions -2.5, 1,053

Season record of top 6 picks: 11-13