Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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10-29-11 | Stanford v. USC +8.5 | Top | 56-48 | Win | 100 | 101 h 10 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #92 Take Southern Cal Trojans over Stanford Cardinals (Saturday 8 pm ABC)
PAC-12 Game of the Year. It has been a long time since USC has been this big of an underdog at the Coliseum and I do not believe that Stanford is capable of beating them by double-digits in Los Angeles. USC is coming off their best performance of the season last week in South Bend and they are much more battle tested than the Stanford Cardinal. Stanford has struggled in numerous first haves this season against inferior competition and if they struggle against USC, they will likely lose this game straight-up. This game reminds me a great deal of the Wisconsin |
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10-29-11 | San Jose State +7.5 v. Louisiana Tech | 28-38 | Loss | -110 | 97 h 12 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #57 Take San Jose State Spartans over Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (Saturday 4 pm)
The Spartans have been playing well of late having won three of their last four games and this is a very important game for both teams if they have visions of going bowling. The Spartans have covered 3 of their last 5 games against Louisiana Tech in Ruston and 5 of the last 7 overall meetings. Both teams are very similar in ranking when it comes to statistics and thus I find it very hard to justify one of these teams being this big of a favorite. The Spartans are 5-0 ATS in their last five games when they are an underdog. The Bulldogs are 16-35 ATS (1 push) in their last 52 games when they are coming off of a victory in their previous outing. This is a field goal game and we will collect with whoever comes out on top. Louisiana Tech by 3 |
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10-29-11 | Illinois v. Penn State -4.5 | 7-10 | Loss | -110 | 97 h 42 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #52 Take Penn State Nittany Lions over Illinois Fighting Illini (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
I will be the first two admit that this Nittany Lion team has surprised me a little bit, but they have had an easy schedule during Big Ten play thus far and that will continue this Saturday against Illinois. Coach Ron Zook is terrible at most aspects of coaching including game management and it would not surprise me in the least if he makes a couple mistakes in this game. Penn State has revenge in this game as well, as in 2010 they were embarrassed in Happy Valley by a freshman quarterback. You can bet Coach Joe Paterno will not let that happen in 2011 and all the returning players are fully aware of it. Illinois has lost two straight games to bad teams and I believe that this is the year that Coach Zook finally gets the ax. Illinois is 3-10 ATS in their last 13 games when they are an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points. Penn State is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points. This is an important game for Joe Pa, as a win here passes Eddie Robinson for most career victories in college football. Penn State by 17 |
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10-22-11 | Oregon State v. Washington State -3 | 44-21 | Loss | -109 | 103 h 33 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #58 Take Washington State Cougars over Oregon State Beavers (Saturday 10:30 pm FSN)
The Cougars should have the home field advantage even though this game is being played in Seattle and not Pullman. Washington State is much improved from the past years and will enter this game looking to beat Oregon State for the second straight season. Wazzou won in Corvallis last year, 31-14, and they are a much improved team and I expect them to win this game by double digits. The Beavers are in complete free fall at the moment and they have just one win on the season, as they beat Arizona, a team that has already fired their head coach. This team could not beat Sacramento State at Reser Stadium and I just do not give them any shot of staying with the Cougars. Oregon State is just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games. Wazzou is 10-4 ATS in their last 14 games overall. One team is on the rise and one team is on the decline. We will side with the up and coming Cougars. Washington State by 18 |
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10-22-11 | Middle Tennessee State -6 v. Florida Atlantic | 38-14 | Win | 100 | 100 h 1 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #83 Take Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders over FAU Owls (Saturday 8 pm ESPN 3)
A battle of two terrible teams will take place Sunday night in South Florida between the Blue Raiders and the Owls. FAU has a quarterback injury, as Graham Wilbert did not play against Western Kentucky last week and is only listed as questionable in this game (elbow injury). Middle Tennessee State is 5-1 in their last 6 meetings with Florida Atlantic and will enter this game healthy and rested, as they have not played a game since 10/6. Both teams may have no coaches next season (FAU for sure), but I just feel that the Blue Raiders have much more talent than do the Owls. MTSU is 11-5 ATS in their last 16 Sun Belt Conference games. FAU is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 Sun Belt Conference games. Both trends hold true tonight, as the Blue Raiders emerge victorious. Blue Raiders by 13 |
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10-22-11 | Wisconsin v. Michigan State +8.5 | Top | 31-37 | Win | 100 | 100 h 0 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #88 Take Michigan State Spartans over Wisconsin Badgers (Saturday 8 pm ESPN) Underdog Game of the Year.
Note: We are aware of the suspension to Bill Gholston and feel we are getting an extra 1/2 point because of it and still really like this play a lot! I must admit that in the opinion of this writer, this line is way off the mark. Wisconsin has yet to be tested on the road this season and in fact this will be their first true road game of the season. Michigan was in the same boat as Wisconsin was last week and lost by double digits to the Spartans in East Lansing. The home team has won the last six meetings in this series and it would not surprise me if that streak reaches seven games. The Badgers have not won a game in East Lansing since 2002 and this is a place they traditionally do not play well at. Michigan State has weapons that can exploit this Wisconsin defense that has yet to be tested, especially through the air. Nebraska and QB Taylor Martinez cannot throw the football like QB Kirk Cousins can and this will become evident during the course of this 60 minute affair. This will be the first true test Wisconsin will receive this season and I just do not believe that they will be up to the task. Wisconsin had become a very public team and thus we continue to get great value with this selection, as it is now approaching double-digits. Michigan State is 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. The Spartans are also 7-3 ATS in their last 10 Big Ten Games. Michigan State hands Wisconsin their first loss of the season and we collect big in the process as well! |
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10-22-11 | USC v. Notre Dame -8.5 | 31-17 | Loss | -100 | 100 h 31 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #82 Take Notre Dame Fighting Irish over USC Trojans (Saturday 7:30 pm NBC)
A couple of years ago it would have been hard to imagine that Notre Dame could ever be this big of a favorite against USC, but Pete Carroll is no longer in Los Angeles and the times have certainly been a changing. Notre Dame went into the Coliseum last year and beat USC by a score of 20-16 and I fully expect them to win this game by double digits. The crowd in South Bend will be fired up, as this is the first night game that they have played since 1990. The USC performance against California on 10/13 is a little misleading since Cal turned it over five times. USC has numerous injuries and not all of their questionable players will be healthy enough to play in this game. Coach Lane Kiffin took over a team that went on probation and they just do not seem to have the edge that the players had during the Pete Carroll tenure. If Notre Dame can hang onto the football, they will win this game by double-digits. USC is 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games following an ATS victory in their previous game. Notre Dame is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games played in South Bend. Notre Dame by 17 |
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10-22-11 | Penn State v. Northwestern +4 | 34-24 | Loss | -110 | 99 h 1 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #74 Take Northwestern Wildcats over Penn State Nittany Lions (Saturday 7 pm Big Ten Network)
I must admit that I had bigger and better things sized up for this game, but the lack luster play of Northwestern of late and caused me to drop the play down a few units. But is has also gotten us a few more points, as now Penn State and their 6-1 record is over a field goal favorite against Northwestern. To be honest, Penn State has no business being a field goal favorite on the road against a talented Northwestern team. We used the Wildcats last week against Iowa and were done in by an unthinkable pass by Dan Persa late in the first quarter and was intercepted and returned 98 yards for an Iowa touchdown. That was a game changing play that Northwestern could never recover from. This is a must win game for Northwestern if they plan on making a bowl game in 2010. The home team has been the side to play in this series, as they have covered 9 of the last 11 meetings. Northwestern is 24-8 ATS in their last 32 games as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points. Penn State is just 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games. The Wildcats keep their minor bowl bid dream alive! Northwestern by 7 |
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10-21-11 | Rutgers +2 v. Louisville | 14-16 | Push | 0 | 32 h 29 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #7 Take Rutgers Scarlet Knights over Louisville Cardinals (Friday 8 pm ESPN 2)
By Big East standards, Rutgers has been a sneaky good team this season and I expect that to continue when they take on one of the worst teams in the six BCS conferences. The Scarlet Knights will enter this game having won four straight games and that includes a dominating victory over Pittsburgh on Oct. 8th.This is a very important game for them, as a win here will set them up for a possible BCS Big by winning the Big East. Most of their tough games are at home (West Virginia & USF) and thus it is not out of the question to believe that they can win the Big East. The Cardinals have been going the other way having lost three straight games and this team really has trouble scoring points. Louisville is 111th in the country scoring just over 16 points per game. That will not get the job done tonight, as the visitor takes this game by double digits. Rutgers is 21-8 ATS (2 pushes) in their last 31 games as a road underdog. Louisville is 6-14 ATS in their last 20 Big East Games. Hard to imagine getting points with the better team, but we will ride Rutgers tonight in Kentucky. |
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10-15-11 | Stanford v. Washington State +22 | 44-14 | Loss | -110 | 78 h 24 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #58 Take Washington State Cougars over Stanford Cardinals (Saturday 7:30 p.m. Versus)
This game looks to be a high-scoring affair, and I believe that the Cougars have enough firepower to stay under this posted number. Washington State has a quarterback injury situation, but Marshall Lobbesteal played well last week against UCLA. It is hard to judge how good this Stanford team is since they have played a weak schedule thus far. However, they are 5-0 straight-up and 5-0 against the spread. This will be their toughest opponent yet, and to me this number seems steep. Wazzou is 8-2 ATS in their last 10 PAC-12 games. Stanford by 10 |
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10-15-11 | Northwestern +7 v. Iowa | Top | 31-41 | Loss | -110 | 78 h 58 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #69 Take Northwestern Wildcats over Iowa Hawkeyes (Saturday 7 p.m. Big Ten Network)
The writing is on the wall! This is not a very good Hawkeyes team, as the running attack is non-existent and their defensive line is not as good as in past years. They stayed with Penn State last week, but Penn State is not any good either. Northwestern had Michigan on the ropes last Saturday in Evanston, but turnovers and some questionable officiating calls did them in over the last 30 minutes. They could not contain Denard Robinson, but Iowa has nobody like him on their roster. Northwestern can score points on most clubs as long as QB Dan Persa is healthy and only their defense is of concern. But, as I mentioned, Iowa does not have the playmakers to threaten them with big plays. Northwestern is 12-2 ATS in their last 14 games as a road underdog. Iowa is 5-11 ATS in their last 16 games against teams with a losing record. Northwestern by 10 |
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10-15-11 | Alabama v. Ole Miss +26.5 | 52-7 | Loss | -110 | 77 h 56 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #32 Take Mississippi Rebels over Alabama Crimson Tide (Saturday 6 p.m. ESPN 2)
It is always hard to give a convincing case when going against Alabama, as the Tide are solid on both sides of the football. Their defense may be as good as any team in the country. However, this looks to be a real flat spot for them. Everyone is pointing to the LSU game in two weeks, and this road test may give them more than they bargained for. As for the Rebels, they are coming off of a bye and that was needed to get some key personal healthy. In the last five years, Ole Miss has stayed close with Alabama. The Rebels are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games following a bye. I would love to call the upset, but that will not occur. However, the Rebels will stay well under the posted number. Alabama by 16 |
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10-15-11 | Utah v. Pittsburgh -7 | 26-14 | Loss | -109 | 71 h 56 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #78 Take Pittsburgh Panthers over Utah Utes (Saturday 12 p.m. ESPN U)
It has been hard to handicap the Panthers this season, but returning to Heinz Field should be the recipe to get them back on track. They looked real good against South Florida a couple of weeks ago and I look for that type of performance to repeat itself in this game. As for Utah, they are finding life difficult in the PAC-12 and losing QB Jordan Wynn does not give me much hope for this team. Jon Hays played last week and threw three interceptions. Utah has also been hit hard with wide receiver injuries and they just do not have the talent this year to contend. Throw in the revenge factor for the Panthers and I see a double digit victory for the homer. Utah is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games. Pittsburgh is 11-1 ATS in their last 12 games following a loss. Pittsburgh by 17 |
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10-15-11 | Michigan v. Michigan State -1 | 14-28 | Win | 100 | 71 h 53 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #14 Take Michigan State Spartans over Michigan Wolverines (Saturday 12 p.m. ESPN)
There |
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10-08-11 | Ohio State v. Nebraska -11 | 27-34 | Loss | -105 | 79 h 37 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play.#88 Take Nebraska Cornhuskers over Ohio State Buckeyes (Saturday 8 pm ABC)
The once-talented and proud Buckeyes have fallen on hard times this season, losing their beloved coach and start quarterback to the NFL. No question they still have some talent in Columbus, but the magic of the Jim Tressel era has faded. The Buckeyes offense continues to struggle and I see them having no success in Lincoln this week against an angry Nebraska team. Nebraska got embarrassed last week on national TV against Wisconsin, but their defense should be much better in this game since Ohio State does not have a playmaker quarterback like Russell Wilson. QB Taylor Martinez folded against Wisconsin in the second half, but I see a much better 60-minute effort in this game since Nebraska will be playing with the lead. I look for Coach Bo Pelini to get his players attention during practice this week. An 0-2 start for either team would be unthinkable, but it will happen for the Buckeyes. Nebraska is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games following a loss. Nebraska Cornhuskers 31, Ohio State 14 |
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10-08-11 | Michigan v. Northwestern +7.5 | 42-24 | Loss | -110 | 78 h 36 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play.#62 Take Northwestern Wildcats over Michigan Wolverines (Saturday 7 pm Big Ten Network)
No question that Michigan is much better this year than any team during the Rich Rodriguez era. However, one has to question how tested this team actually is. The Wolverines are 5-0, but all five games came at Michigan Stadium and Notre Dame was the only team that had the talent to compete against Michigan. This is a typical up-and-down Northwestern team, and much of that is due to QB Dan Persa. He has been injured most of the season and as he goes, so go the Wildcats. Northwestern had a big lead against Illinois last week only to see QB Persa injured and Illinois come back to win the game. The report that I am getting is that he is ok and will start against Michigan Saturday night. This is only the second home game for Northwestern this season and I look for them to stay with Michigan for sixty minutes in a high scoring affair. Northwestern Wildcats 38, Michigan Wolverines 35 |
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10-08-11 | Iowa v. Penn State UNDER 45 | 3-13 | Win | 100 | 74 h 5 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play.#36 Take Under in Iowa Hawkeyes @ Penn State Nittany Lions (Saturday 3:30 pm ESPN 3)
Neither team has the talent on offense to score at will. Iowa lacks a strong running attack and their passing game is questionable as well. Penn State has yet to settle on a quarterback and I believe this is the worst offensive unit that Coach Joe Paterno has had in years. What it all boils down to is that both defenses should dominate and this will be a low scoring game. Unless we get caught with defensive or special teams touchdowns, I see the under as the only side to consider. The Under is 16-5 ATS (1 push) in Iowa |
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10-08-11 | Florida v. LSU -13.5 | Top | 11-41 | Win | 100 | 74 h 7 m | Show |
10 Unit Play.#86 Take LSU Tigers over Florida Gators (Saturday 3:30 pm CBS)
It may be hard in most cases justifying laying this many points against Florida. However, these two teams are heading in opposite directions. Florida went all out last week to try and upset Alabama in the swamp, but they wore down and the game was not very close. Now they must go on the road to face LSU, a team that might have the best defense in the country. Throw in the fact that the Gators will be starting a true freshman at quarterback, as fifth-year senior John Brantley is out for this game, and it looks like it could be a long day for Florida. LSU has been tested like no other team in the country has been this season. They have played away from Baton Rouge against Oregon, Mississippi State, and West Virginia. Florida is 2-6 ATS (1 push) in their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. The Tigers prove why they are the top team in the country with a dominating victory against Florida. LSU Tigers 27, Florida Gators 6 |
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10-08-11 | Louisville v. North Carolina -14 | 7-14 | Loss | -110 | 71 h 35 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play.#60 Take North Carolina Tar Heels over Louisville Cardinals (Saturday 12 pm ESPN 2)
The Cardinals just do not have the talent to stay with UNC, as last week |
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10-01-11 | Nebraska +9.5 v. Wisconsin | 17-48 | Loss | -110 | 77 h 35 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #99 Take Nebraska Cornhuskers over Wisconsin Badgers (Saturday 8 p.m. ABC)
Camp Randall Stadium will be rocking, to say the least, on Saturday night. If you have an extra ticket you will be a popular person as prices range from $500 to $1000 per ticket. This is the first Big Ten game for Nebraska, and making the trip to Madison is no easy task. But that being said, I do not believe that Wisconsin should be this big of a favorite. The Badgers offense is certainly productive, but I question how good their defense is, especially since they have yet to be tested. Nebraska will give the Wisconsin defense all that they can handle with an athletic quarterback in Taylor Martinez, who can beat you with his arm and his legs. Nebraska is 5-0 ATS in their last five games as an underdog. Badgers win this game, but it comes much closer than what the experts think. Wisconsin Badgers 31, Nebraska Cornhuskers 28 |
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10-01-11 | Notre Dame -11.5 v. Purdue | 38-10 | Win | 100 | 76 h 24 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #93 Take Notre Dame Fighting Irish over Purdue Boilermakers (Saturday 8 pm ESPN)
The Irish have righted the ship and the Boilermakers are not on the same level as Notre Dame. QB Rob Henry is out with a torn ACL and I expect this team to really struggle once they get into conference play. The Irish has won the last three meetings between these in-state rivals and two of those three victories have come by double digits. If Notre Dame can take care of the football, they will score at will in this game. QB Tommy Rees has taken over under center and they more he plays, the better he gets. The Irish came from behind to win at Pittsburgh last week and the Panthers are a much better team than the Boilermakers. Purdue is just 7-22 ATS (1 push) in their last 30 games being played during the month of October. The Irish are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. The Irish have won five of the last six meetings and we will lay the double digits tonight in West Lafayette. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 38, Purdue Boilermakers 17 |
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10-01-11 | Memphis v. Middle Tenn State -22.5 | 31-38 | Loss | -102 | 76 h 60 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #102 Take Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders over Memphis Tigers (Saturday 7 p.m. ESPN 3)
It seems out of character to release a selection with this big of a favorite when a team is 0-3 on the season, but when you look at the Blue Raiders losses, things begin to take focus. MTSU took Purdue to the wire, only to lose in the last 10 seconds. They also took Troy to the wire and scored 21 points against Georgia Tech. I expect them to score in the 40s for this game and that will be enough to cover against a terrible Memphis team. Speaking of Memphis, they could be the worst team in FBS football. They lost 42-0 at home last week and had -14 yards rushing in that game. This will not bode well for them on the road, especially against a Blue Raider team that is looking for revenge and needs a big win. Memphis is 3-10 ATS (1 push) in their last 14 road games. This is a complete mismatch and a rout will occur. MTSU Blue Raiders 49, Memphis Tigers 10 |
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10-01-11 | Auburn v. South Carolina -9.5 | 16-13 | Loss | -109 | 73 h 30 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #86 Take South Carolina Gamecocks over Auburn Tigers (Saturday 3:30 p.m. CBS) College Football Game of the Year.
If ever a game spelled revenge, this would be it! The Gamecocks lost to Auburn twice last season, including being blown out in the SEC Championship Game, 56-17. But that was a much different Auburn team that what USC will see in Columbia this Saturday. The Tigers have had success and may have some here. However, their defense is suspect. This is a major area of concern and that will become evident here. USC has yet to put a complete game together this season, but I expect that to occur on Saturday. Look for QB Stephen Garcia to have his best game of the season. Auburn is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games as a road underdog. Coach Spurrier wants this game and he gets it going away! South Carolina Gamecocks 42, Auburn Tigers 21 |
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10-01-11 | Michigan State +3 v. Ohio State | 10-7 | Win | 102 | 52 h 44 m | Show | |
***CORRECTION ON GAME SELECTED ABOVE (WRONG SIDE CHOSEN), ANALYSIS IS THE SAME***
5 Unit Play. #51 Take Michigan State Spartans over the Ohio State Buckeyes (Saturday 3:30 p.m. ESPN 3) Ohio State is another Big Ten team that has not settled its quarterback issues. True Freshman Braxton Miller started last week against Colorado and Ohio State rolled to victory. But Miller did not play very well, completing just 7 of his 16 passes. I expect the Spartans to make him beat them with his arm. As for the Spartans, they have a veteran quarterback in Kirk Cousins. He has numerous playmakers around him with a strong running attack and receivers that can make plays. Michigan State has already had a bad outing this season and that came two weeks ago against Notre Dame. They just came in flat in that game against a team that was desperate for a victory. This could be a low-scoring affair, but I see the Spartans getting the victory straight-up. Michigan State is 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. Coach Mark Dantonio has them ready, and they can go all out since they have a bye the following week. Michigan State Spartans 24, Ohio State Buckeyes 20 |
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10-01-11 | Penn State v. Indiana +16.5 | 16-10 | Win | 100 | 69 h 1 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #14 Take Indiana Hoosiers over Penn State Nittany Lions (Saturday 12 p.m. ESPN U)
It |
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09-24-11 | USC v. Arizona State -2.5 | Top | 22-43 | Win | 100 | 81 h 8 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #94 Take Arizona State Sun Devils over USC Trojans (Saturday 10:15 p.m. ESPN)
Now is the time for Coach Dennis Erickson and his Sun Devils to finally play to their potential and knock off the Trojans for the first time in their last six trips to Tempe. This will be the Trojans first road game of the season and they have not played well in their three home games, including struggling to beat a Minnesota team that lost to New Mexico State. I look for the Sun Devils to put pressure on QB Matt Barkley, forcing them to run the football, and that is something the Trojans are not very good at doing. Losing last week to Illinois will not have any effect on this game for ASU. In fact, it will likely have them determined to make a statement in this game. The talent for ASU is there and the time is now! USC is 3-11 ATS in their last 14 games following an ATS win. ASU is 8-3 ATS (1 push) in their last 12 games at Sun Devil Stadium. Both trends hold true on Saturday night, as we collect with our top play! Arizona State Sun Devils 28, USC Trojans 17 |
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09-24-11 | Vanderbilt v. South Carolina -16 | 3-21 | Win | 100 | 78 h 43 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #80 Take South Carolina Gamecocks over Vanderbilt Commodores (Saturday 7 p.m. ESPN 2)
Vandy is on a three game winning streak, but this will be their first road game of the 2011 season. Their defense has looked good so far, especially when it comes to stopping the run. But this encounter will be different as they will be playing an explosive offense with a strong quarterback and a superb running back. The Gamecocks have looked suspect on defense thus far in 2011, but I look for a much better effort in this game. Coach Steve Spurrier will make it known that the way they played against Navy last week is unacceptable. Vanderbilt has been a thorn in South Carolina |
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09-24-11 | Florida State v. Clemson -2 | 30-35 | Win | 100 | 74 h 10 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #20 Take Clemson Tigers over Florida State Seminoles (Saturday 3:30 p.m. ESPN)
We had the Tigers last week as our top play against Auburn, and were able to collect with that ticket. Clemson dug themselves an early hole only to climb out with a dominating performance the last three quarters. To me, this type of situation shows a sign of confidence backed by talent. As for the Seminoles, they gave everything that they had against Oklahoma, but they did not have the talent to compete. Going all out in that game should have an effect in this game, as one has to wonder how much FSU has left in the tank. Death Valley is always a tough place to play for the visitor. Reports indicate that QB EJ Manuel may not play in this game, but even if he does it will be too much for the Seminoles to overcome. Expect Clemson to roll in this game and getting points is too good to pass up. Emotion will be high on one side and Clemson is ready to make a statement at Memorial Stadium. I will call the straight-up upset! Clemson Tigers 24, FSU Seminoles 20 |
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09-24-11 | Georgia -10 v. Ole Miss | 27-13 | Win | 100 | 71 h 0 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #27 Take Georgia Bulldogs over Ole Miss Rebels (Saturday 12:20 p.m. ESPN 3)
Georgia has started the 2011 season very similarly to how they started the 2010 season. But I look for more out of this team and last week |
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09-24-11 | Notre Dame -6.5 v. Pittsburgh | 15-12 | Loss | -115 | 71 h 39 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #65 Take Notre Dame Fighting Irish over Pittsburgh Panthers (Saturday 12 p.m. ABC)
The Irish are in a very similar situation to the Georgia Bulldogs. They lost their first two games of the season, but then got back on track last week with a big win against Michigan State. This Notre Dame team is loaded with talent, but they have had trouble holding onto the football this season on offense. I look for this team to finally settle down under Coach Brian Kelly and if they win this game, it is possible that they could run the table. The Panthers have a new coach and blew a big lead last week against Iowa. Do not get mislead by the Iowa comeback, as Iowa is just a very average team in 2011. The Panthers struggled against Buffalo and Maine and none of these first three opponents come close to the talent of Notre Dame. Pittsburgh is 0-6 ATS (1 push) in their last 7 games played during the month of September. Notre Dame is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games against teams with a winning record. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 38, Pittsburgh Panthers 14 |
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09-23-11 | Central Florida v. BYU -2 | 17-24 | Win | 100 | 20 h 17 m | Show | |
1.5-Unit Play. Take #304 BYU over Central Florida (8 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23)
Yes, this is a letdown game for BYU after losing the Holy War last week. But that 54-10 pasting wasn't NEARLY as ugly as the final score indicated, as an array of bizarre turnovers and foolish penalties really made BYU its own worst enemy. I think that Bronco Mendenhall is a very good coach. And the experience and age difference on the BYU team (a lot of these players are in their early 20's, as opposed to late teens on most other teams) will help them bounce back quicker from such a disappointing loss. In fact, this might be the perfect spot to take out some frustration for the Cougars since they have another nationally televised game here to get motivated for. I am not impressed with UCF. They beat a cupcake in the opener, and then they beat a Boston College team that is among the worst in the BCS. Last week Central Florida lost an in-state rivalry game of their own to Florida International. And while the emotional hurt may not be nearly as much as BYU's loss, UCF is the one that has to find a way to get motivated and travel cross-country to the mountains of Utah for this game. It is a different climate and a different atmosphere here for the visiting Knights. And, frankly, I don't think that they are that good. I will go with BYU, a team that is much more mature and that has played better against a schedule - at Ole Miss, at Texas, vs. Utah - that is light-years ahead of what UCF has matched up with so far this year. |
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09-17-11 | Ohio State v. Miami (Florida) -2.5 | 6-24 | Win | 100 | 78 h 13 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #84 Take Miami Hurricanes over Ohio State Buckeyes (Saturday 7:30 ESPN)
The biggest question here is who will be suspended and who will be able to play for both teams. The Buckeyes find themselves at 2-0 on the season, but the schedule has been light. Despite that Toledo had a chance to win last week in Columbus. The Hurricanes got beat by Maryland in the opening game of the season and had last week off. QB Jacory Harris did not play in the opening but is expected to play in this game. That will not be the case with Ohio State, as their coach and quarterback from last season are now in the NFL serving a suspension. This is a big game for Coach Al Golden and I look for him to have his team ready to make a statement in primetime. This small line looks to be a gift. Miami Hurricanes 28, Ohio State Buckeyes 20 |
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09-17-11 | Wisconsin v. Northern Illinois +17.5 | 49-7 | Loss | -105 | 74 h 13 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #86 Take Northern Illinois Huskies over Wisconsin Badgers (Saturday 3:30 pm ESPN 3)
This will be a game very few people will be able to watch since it is only available on the Internet. The Badgers have shown they belong in the top-10 this season with two dominating performances against UNLV and Oregon State. But UNLV does not have any talent and Oregon State was banged up at a couple of key positions. Wisconsin is good, but I personally believe that they are not this good. Their defense has yet to be tested and the Huskies have the playmakers to give them their first true test this Saturday. QB Chandler Harinish threw 21 touchdowns last season and only 5 interceptions last season and he has numerous playmakers around him. Coach Dave Doeren was the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin last year and he will have a good game plan taking on his former squad. Only question I have is whether the Huskies can stop the Badgers running attack. The Huskies are 11-2 ATS (1 push) in their last 14 games overall. In a high scoring affair, this one stay under the number. Wisconsin Badgers 41, Northern Illinois Huskies 31 |
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09-17-11 | Penn State v. Temple +7.5 | 14-10 | Win | 100 | 71 h 42 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #74 Take Temple Owls over Penn State Nittany Lions (Saturday 12 pm ESPN)
A rare road game for a Big Ten team against a MAC team, but that will be the case on Saturday when the Lions invade Philadelphia looking for their 29th straight win against Temple. Will they get it? Not so fast my friend! Yes Penn State is talented, but last week |
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09-17-11 | Eastern Michigan v. Michigan -29.5 | 3-31 | Loss | -110 | 71 h 41 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #40 Take Michigan Wolverines over Eastern Michigan Eagles (Saturday 12 pm Big Ten Network)
Some handicappers may be looking for a letdown here for Michigan after coming back to beat Notre Dame last week. In my opinion that will not be the case. This Wolverine team is hungry and the defense must take a stand. I am looking for QB Denard Robinson and his talented receivers to have a big day against the Eagles. EMU is 2-0, but neither opponent they have played has the talent of Michigan. This is Michigan |
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09-17-11 | Auburn v. Clemson -3 | Top | 24-38 | Win | 100 | 71 h 40 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #8 Take Clemson Tigers over Auburn Tigers (Saturday 12 pm ABC)
Revenge Game of the Year. This Auburn team continues to roll and will enter Death Valley on a 16 game winning streak. No doubt that a team has to be good to accomplish this; however, luck does play a part in this game and the Auburn Tiger |
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09-16-11 | Boise State v. Toledo +20.5 | 40-15 | Loss | -105 | 29 h 31 m | Show | |
6-Unit Play. #104. Take Toledo over Boise State (Friday @ 8pm est) Great quality public fade here as Toledo hosts Boise State. This is a dangerous game for Boise State. No, I'm not smoking the hash, but bear in mind that with over 75% of the public favoring Boise State who comes off that big win against Georgia, this is a classic let down spot for them. There is nothing worse for a nationally ranked team than playing an opponent who is half-decent, on the road, in front of a nationally televised audience, on a weeknight - nothing worse. Ask Missouri and countless other teams who have had to face that dilemma. These two teams met last year and 71 total points were scored and this year, with Oklahoma quite possibly losing at Florida State this weekend, and Boise the possibility of rising, look for Boise to do their fair share of scoring on the road today. Also, note that Toledo nearly beat Ohio State scoring 22 points on the Buckeyes on the road this year and easily covering the 17.5 spread. With a nationally televised audience and a fan base that's going to be nuts as Toledo does not get much national attention, so this is a bowl game of sorts for them come early, look for Toledo to hang inside the three touchdown spread Friday night.
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09-15-11 | LSU v. Mississippi State +4.5 | 19-6 | Loss | -110 | 4 h 28 m | Show | |
3 Unit Play Take #102 Mississippi St +3.5 over LSU (8:00pm est):
The LSU Tigers don't do anything fancy on the football field, they just win games. This is a team/program that is about as plain and vanilla as it gets for a major college program at this level. They went with this strategy to start in the season in their big 40-27 win over Oregon to begin the year, losing the yardage battle by over 60 yards but going plus three in the all important turnover category as they went on to grab the win 40-27. LSU is only 10-21-1 ATS in their last 32 conference games. They have only covered one of their last six games as a road favorite. Though this is a biggie here for them, next week may be even bigger as they go into West Virginia to play the Mountaineers. Mississippi State and head coach Dan Mullen enter the third year of this program. Usually the third year of any program is when things really start to happen for a team and the Bulldogs are no different. After last years strong finish to the season, a lot is expected of this group. They have a powerful offense as Mullen learned under Urban Meyer through the years. Last week was a huge disappointment for the Bulldogs as they played a hard fought game against Auburn but just couldn't get over the hump in that one. After their heartbreaking defeat to the Auburn Tigers combined with coming off a 29-7 loss last year to LSU, Mullen should have his Bulldogs more than fired up for this huge mid-week home game. Many in MSU land feel that they played way better than the final score last year as they not only outgained LSU in the game but they also had a 21-12 first down edge in the game. The real difference in that contest was the four more turnovers MSU had in the game. The Bulldogs have covered four of their last five following a loss and are 7-2 at home against the number versus a team with a winning road record. LSU is playing still without their leader Jordan Jefferson and this should be the main difference here in this one. The cowbells will be loud and the energy level high. Play Mississippi State here. |
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09-10-11 | Notre Dame -3.5 v. Michigan | 31-35 | Loss | -105 | 77 h 1 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #81 Take Notre Dame Fighting Irish over Michigan Wolverines (Saturday 8 pm ESPN)
It |
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09-10-11 | UAB +23.5 v. Florida | 0-39 | Loss | -110 | 76 h 3 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #41 Take UAB Blazers over Florida Gators (Saturday 7 pm ESPN 3)
The Gators rolled to a victory last week, but that was against FAU, who played without their head coach. Do not sell this UAB team short, as 16 starters return, and this team took Tennessee and Mississippi State to the wire in 2010. There |
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09-10-11 | Alabama v. Penn State UNDER 42 | 27-11 | Win | 100 | 73 h 31 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #50 Take Under in Alabama @ Penn State (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
This looks to be another defensive struggle between two legendary programs. Neither club had any test last week, as they were able to overpower weaker opponents. Alabama |
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09-10-11 | Mississippi State -6.5 v. Auburn | 34-41 | Loss | -110 | 69 h 24 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #15 Mississippi State Bulldogs over Auburn Tigers (Saturday 12:20 pm ESPN 3)
Only two things going against me here: the play looks too good and the world will be backing the Bulldogs. That being said, the Bulldogs have a major edge in talent and they will have revenge on their minds after losing three straight against Auburn, including 2008, when they lost 3-2. Coach Dan Mullen has his best squad yet with 17 returning starters. Mississippi State went 9-4 last year in a tough SEC West and had Cam Newton and company on the ropes last season before falling in the final minutes. This is not the same Auburn team that they faced in 2010, as the Tigers were really hit hard by graduation. I already mentioned the loss of Cam Newton, but even more important could be the loss of key players on the defense. That really played a role against Utah State last week in a game Auburn should have lost. Because of that performance, the Tigers have fallen out of the Top 25, and we now get this inflated line. But it is still a couple of points short, as the visitor takes care of business. The Bulldogs are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games as a favorite of 3.5-10.0. Mississippi State Bulldogs 35, Auburn Tigers 17 |
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09-10-11 | Toledo +19.5 v. Ohio State | Top | 22-27 | Win | 100 | 69 h 2 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #45 Take Toledo Rockets over Ohio State Buckeyes (Saturday 12 pm Big Ten Network)
Last week |
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09-09-11 | Missouri v. Arizona State OVER 52.5 | 30-37 | Win | 100 | 30 h 38 m | Show | |
3 Unit Play Take #303 'over' in Missouri/Arizona State (10:30pm est): A lot was expected of the young Missouri quarterback James Franklin before the season but after his lackluster game to open the year it seems most expectations have been lowered considerably. This is still a very talented guy who was just a little unsure of himself in game one but now that he has a whole game underneath him he should be fine. The Tigers come in with a ton of experienced players on the offensive end of things and a defense that is the weakness of their club. Add in the fact that they lost a few key defensive starters in game one due to injuries and now this team is clearly more of an offensive team right now.
Arizona State has gone 'over' in four of their last five games overall and five of their last seven games at home. They have a 2nd year offensive coordinator who seen top results last year in his first year on the job. In fact last years offense was the top offensive team in the 5 years under head coach Dennis Erickson for the Sun Devils. On the down side it was also the worst defensive team in the Erickson Era, which should also help our 'over' play here. If this was a game in week one of the season we would be see a line that would be a solid five point higher here on the total. Both teams will be pumped up for this game with it being on national TV. Play 'over' the number in this one. |
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09-04-11 | SMU +16 v. Texas A&M | Top | 14-46 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 28 m | Show |
4-Unit Play. Take #209 SMU over Texas A&M (7:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 4)
These spots are just made for June Jones. He was a thorn in the side of BCS teams when he was at Hawaii and he is a thorn in their side now. This is a lot of points to be laying out to an SMU team that can score with anyone. Sophomore Kyle Padron is much more experienced and comfortable than he was at this time last year and I think he will have a solid game. This same SMU team only lost to TCU - a BCS team - by 25 points on the road last year. They are far more experienced and now that they are in the third year of Jones' system (with eight three-year starters in the lineup) they will be ready to roll. This is an in-state rivalry game and that makes me like the dog even better because this is basically like a bowl game for them. |
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09-03-11 | Boise State v. Georgia +3.5 | Top | 35-21 | Loss | -110 | 77 h 56 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #98 Take Georgia Bulldogs over Boise State Broncos (Saturday 8 pm ESPN)
This is an important game for both teams, but the Bulldogs have a major edge since this game is being played in the state of Georgia. The Bulldogs are coming off a disappointing season in 2010 and it is important that they start off on a good note in 2011 or things could get ugly. Boise State is loaded again with QB Kellen Moore returning to lead the offense, but they will have to replace their top two receivers from last year in Titus Young and Austin Pettis. Georgia has no slouch at quarterback either, as Aaron Murray threw 24 touchdowns last season and only 8 interceptions. These two teams met in 2005 and Georgia defeated Boise State by a score of 48-13. It will be hard for Georgia to repeat that performance, but I expect their defense to key on stopping the run and I believe that they have the athletes to cover the new Bronco receivers one on one. Georgia pulls this game out late and getting points is too good to pass up. Georgia Bulldogs 24, Boise State Broncos 21 |
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09-03-11 | BYU v. Ole Miss +3 | 14-13 | Win | 100 | 74 h 40 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #60 Take Mississippi Rebels over BYU Cougars (Saturday 4:45 pm ESPN)
On paper the Cougars seem to have the edge, especially on offense with 10 returning starters. But when I examine the 2010 stats I find that BYU had very little success against anyone that fielded an above-average defense. BYU played six road games last year and only won one of those games (Colorado St). In that game the Rams fielded one of the worst defenses in the country. Now on the road for their opener, BYU must face an Ole Miss team that had success on offense last year and they return nine starters from that squad. The Rebels are loaded on offense, especially at the skill positions along with a veteran offensive line. The defense is still a concern for Ole Miss, but the return of Kentrell Lockett should help. Look for Coach Houston Nutt to have this team ready since they lost to Jacksonville State in their home opener last year. He will make sure that does not happen again, as the SEC flexes their muscles yet again. The Rebels are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 nonconference games. Ole Miss Rebels 38, BYU Cougars 34 |
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09-03-11 | Louisiana Monroe v. Florida State -28.5 | 0-34 | Win | 100 | 72 h 26 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #90 Take Florida State Seminoles over Louisiana Monroe Warhawks (Saturday 3:30 pm ESPN U)
Look for great strides this year under second year Coach Jimbo Fisher, and it would not surprise me if they get into the Top 5 in the polls before the season is over. The Seminoles return 16 starters and should be equally talented on both sides of the football. The real question will be how good QB EJ Manuel is, as he must replace Christian Ponder, who now plays for the Minnesota Vikings. If Manuel can step up, this team will be a National Championship contender. As for the Warhawks, they also return a large nucleus. However, the talent of their program is just not the same as the Seminoles. ULM has lost 17 consecutive road openers and they are 0-23 against ranked teams. Last year against BCS conference teams they lost to Arkansas, 31-7, Auburn, 52-3, and LSU, 51-0. I look for more of the same in this game, as the talent gap is just too big to overcome. The Warhawks are 17-37 ATS in their last 54 non-conference games. Florida State Seminoles 42, ULM Warhawks 7 |
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09-03-11 | South Florida +10 v. Notre Dame | 23-20 | Win | 100 | 72 h 26 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #71 Take South Florida Bulls over Notre Dame Fighting Irish (Saturday 3:30 pm NBC)
Most football experts think this could be the year for second-year Coach Brian Kelly and Notre Dame to return to a BCS Bowl. I certainly would agree that a better year is in the making. However, being a double-digit favorite against USF may be a stretch. Coach Skip Holtz is a 1986 graduate of Notre Dame and also worked there as an assistant coach. Under his tenure, the Bulls have been a strong play when they are an underdog, including winning three games straight-up last year. QB BJ Daniels is back behind center and he has numerous playmakers to throw the football too. The defense of USF is young, but they do have talent on that side of the football as well. Not sure I am willing to call the upset, but the Bulls will put on a good show and take this game down to the wire. Notre Dame is just 2-12 ATS (2 pushes) in their last 16 games as a favorite. USF is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 28, USF Bulls 21 |
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09-02-11 | TCU v. Baylor +6 | Top | 48-50 | Win | 100 | 75 h 13 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #42 Take Baylor Bears over TCU Horned Frogs (Friday 8 pm ESPN)
TCU has been a darling of the mid-majors the last few years and their Rose Bowl victory over Wisconsin put them into national championship contention for 2011. The problem with that is that this year they do not have the guns to back it up. This team was really hit hard by graduation losing 14 of their 22 starters from last year. The main loss is QB Andy Dalton, as he will likely start for the Cincinnati Bengals this year. Now Casey Pachall will be under center and he threw just nine passes in 2011 and has yet to be put in any pressure situations. They will face a Baylor team that is hungry to put to bed a terrible bowl performance against Illinois last year. This team returns 14 of their 22 starters including QB Robert Griffin III, who threw for over 35 yards last season. The Bears also return their top five wide receivers and if they can protect Griffin, he will be able to move the football on TCU. Defense has always been an issue for Baylor since they pass a lot on offense and that means that their defense is on the field a lot. It will be important for them to get off of the field on third downs and whatever defense can accomplish this will likely be the winner. Baylor got blown out at TCU last season and will be determined to make sure that does not happen at Floyd Casey Stadium this year. Since 1975, TCU is just 3-9 straight up when playing Baylor in Waco. TCU is just 1-5 ATS in their last six non-conference games. Baylor wins this game straight-up and getting points is just icing on the cake. Baylor Bears 38, TCU Horned Frogs 31 |
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01-10-11 | Oregon +3 v. Auburn | 19-22 | Push | 0 | 128 h 49 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #269 Take Oregon over Auburn (BCS Championship Game, Monday, January 10th, 8:30 pm ESPN)
The final football game of the college football season features two high powered offenses, but we fully expect nerves to be high on both sides and thus we will side with the underdog on the under for our selections. You can easily make a case for either team, since they are both explosive but I really believe that the Oregon defense is better than the Auburn defense and that will be key component of this ballgame. The Ducks average close to 49 points per game and outgain Auburn in both passing yards and rushing yards each game. I do not believe that either team will reach forty points scoring in this contest and that sets up a strong play with the under as well. This game reminds me of the BCS Championship Game two years ago between Florida and Oklahoma. That total was in the seventies as well, but the final score was just 24-14. Running the football keeps the clock moving and this posted total is way too high. Oregon is 5-1 ATS in their last six games when they are an underdog. Auburn did not perform well during the non-conference portion of the season and they have covered just one of their last five games that are not against SEC teams. The under is 4-1 in Oregon |
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01-10-11 | Oregon v. Auburn UNDER 74 | 19-22 | Win | 100 | 128 h 48 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #270 Take Under in Oregon vs. Auburn (BCS Championship Game, Monday, January 10th, 8:30 pm ESPN)
The final football game of the college football season features two high powered offenses, but we fully expect nerves to be high on both sides and thus we will side with the underdog on the under for our selections. You can easily make a case for either team, since they are both explosive but I really believe that the Oregon defense is better than the Auburn defense and that will be key component of this ballgame. The Ducks average close to 49 points per game and outgain Auburn in both passing yards and rushing yards each game. I do not believe that either team will reach forty points scoring in this contest and that sets up a strong play with the under as well. This game reminds me of the BCS Championship Game two years ago between Florida and Oklahoma. That total was in the seventies as well, but the final score was just 24-14. Running the football keeps the clock moving and this posted total is way too high. Oregon is 5-1 ATS in their last six games when they are an underdog. Auburn did not perform well during the non-conference portion of the season and they have covered just one of their last five games that are not against SEC teams. The under is 4-1 in Oregon |
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01-01-11 | Connecticut v. Oklahoma -16.5 | 20-48 | Win | 100 | 102 h 48 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #256 Take Oklahoma Sooners over Connecticut Huskies (Fiesta Bowl, Saturday, Jan. 1st, 8:30 pm ESPN)
Certainly have to respect the fact that the Huskies are a sentimental choice here by many, but they also are a team that does not belong in a BCS game. UCONN started out the season with a blowout loss to Michigan and after seven games they were 3-4 on the season. After losing to Louisville, 26-0, the Huskies won their next five games to make it to the Fiesta Bowl. So why are they a 17-point underdog? The fact remains that the Sooners have a big edge in talent and Connecticut was outgained in six of their seven Big East games this season. That should give you an indication about how good this team actually is. Oklahoma should have no problem here getting ready for this Husky team, as the Sooners past BCS Bowl performances have not been very good. Look for the Sooner offense to light-up the scoreboard and UCONN simply will not be able to keep pace. The biggest bowl favorite of 2010 gets it done with a blowout performance on the first day of 2011. OKLAHOMA SOONERS 51, CONNECTICUT HUSKIES 24 |
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01-01-11 | TCU v. Wisconsin UNDER 59 | 21-19 | Win | 100 | 98 h 3 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #254 Take Under in TCU Horned Frogs vs. Wisconsin Badgers (Rose Bowl, Saturday, Jan. 1st, 5 pm ESPN)
This posted total is high since both teams dominated late in the season with blowout results. But one must take into consideration the teams that each of these participants were playing. Northwestern, Indiana, Michigan, and New Mexico do not know what the word defense means; let alone how to play it successfully. Now two high powered offenses must face defenses that can contain and stop anything that has been thrown at them. The Badgers will use a high powered running attack and hope for similar success as they have had in past Rose Bowls. This is the perfect type of game plan for a play on the under, as the clock will be running. The Horned Frogs will likely employ a similar game plan as well and this will make it very hard for me to pick a side play winner in this game. That being said, I am convinced the odds makers total is just simply too steep. Badgers pull it out in a hard fought low scoring affair. WISCONSIN BADGERS 24, TCU HORNED FROGS 21 |
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01-01-11 | Michigan State v. Alabama -9.5 | 7-49 | Win | 100 | 50 h 7 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #250 Take Alabama Crimson Tide -9
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12-31-10 | Central Florida v. Georgia -6.5 | Top | 10-6 | Loss | -110 | 75 h 11 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #242 Take Georgia Bulldogs over Central Florida Golden Knights (Liberty Bowl, Friday, Dec. 31st, 3:30 pm ESPN) Bowl Game of the Year.
This is one of the games where the favorite has a big edge in talent but the only question is will they come to play? If they do Georgia will probably win by double digits, but if they do not they could lose straight-up. I believe that this Bulldog program has too much price to lie down, as a loss here will mean a losing record for 2010 and Coach Richt will be feeling the heat. Georgia has played much better since they return of WR AJ Green, as he had to sit out the first part of the season because he sold his game jersey to an agent. Granted the Golden Knights will come in here relaxed with nothing to lose. But the fact remains that they played a very weak schedule. UCF did not face a defense that was ranked in the top fifty in the country. Georgia has played well recently in bowl games covering five of their last seven when they are the favorite. Coach Richt keeps the Georgia faithful happy, as they build off of a big victory Friday in the hopes of a success 2011 season. GEORGIA BULLDOGS 31, UCF GOLDEN KNIGHTS 17 |
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12-30-10 | Washington +14 v. Nebraska | 19-7 | Win | 100 | 201 h 35 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #235 Take Washington Huskies over Nebraska Cornhuskers (Holiday Bowl Thursday, December 30th, 10 pm ESPN)
A rare bowl rematch will occur in the Holiday Bowl, as these two teams played earlier in the season. There is no use in trying to evaluate the talent, as Big Red has the edge, evident by the fact that they beat Washington 56-21 in Seattle earlier this season. So why side with the underdog here? I really believe that Nebraska will come in flat especially after losing the Big XII Title to Oklahoma. This is not the bowl that had envisioned and it would not surprise me if Washington gets out to an early lead. I believe that this will be much closer than what the experts believe. NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS 28, WASHINGTON HUSKIES 20 |
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12-29-10 | Illinois v. Baylor -1 | 38-14 | Loss | -110 | 173 h 34 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #226 Take Baylor Bears over Illinois Fighting Illini (Texas Bowl Wednesday, Dec. 29th, 6 pm ESPN)
Both teams have shaky defenses and we look for a high scoring game between this Big Ten / Big XII battle. Illinois was erratic all season long but did play better at the end of the year. One must remember that Illinois beat Indiana, Purdue, and Northwestern, but all three of these programs had major injury problems. The Bears lost their last three games of the season but they came against the three teams that tied for the Big XII South Title (Oklahoma State, Texas A & M, and Oklahoma). I look for QB Robert Griffin to pick apart Illinois since they have very little pass rush and a weak secondary. Baylor should have a home crowd edge since this game is being played in Texas. I hope the scoreboard has all of its lights working because this will be a shootout. Baylor pulls away late to win this game by double-digits. BAYLOR BEARS 42, ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI 31 |
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12-28-10 | Missouri -3 v. Iowa | 24-27 | Loss | -105 | 153 h 33 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #221 Take Missouri Tigers over Iowa Hawkeyes (Insight Bowl Tuesday, Dec. 28th, 10 pm ESPN)
As the start of the football season I felt that Iowa could be the best team in the Big Ten. The defense looked to be one of the best in the country. Giving up 34 points to Arizona should have sent a signal that this defense was overrated. But the problems did not develop into late in the season and instead of getting better they got worse. Iowa has not had a very good running attack this season and it should be even worse in this game with the suspension of Adam Robinson. WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos is also out and that will put a lot of pressure on QB Ricky Stanzi. Missouri has several seniors that remember their loss to Navy last year in a bowl game, 35-13. These guys will not let this happen again and this number is too low to pass up. Missouri rolls and we collect big in the process as well. MISSOURI TIGERS 31, IOWA HAWKEYES 17 |
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12-24-10 | Tulsa +10.5 v. Hawaii | 62-35 | Win | 100 | 9 h 53 m | Show | |
1.5-Unit Play. Take #213 Tulsa (+10) over Hawaii (8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 24)
Note: This is the HAWAII BOWL. Whenever two high-octane, throw-it-until-your-arm-falls-off-and-play-no-defense teams in Conference USA play against one another I always look to take the points. The reason is that in a game of teams throwing caution to the wind the underdog is usually willing to be even more aggressive. Tulsa is a very good team and they were really coming on late in the season. Hawaii is inflated because they are playing at home. But this team really doesn't have a resume that I find overly impressive. Besides being blasted by Boise State they played a bunch of clowns over the last month-plus. They may be a little lax heading into this game just because they are in a comfort zone. But Tulsa is coming to play and coming to win and they can score enough points quickly enough that the back door will be open all game long. |
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12-23-10 | Navy v. San Diego State -3 | 14-35 | Win | 100 | 31 h 33 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #211 Take San Diego State Aztecs over Navy Midshipmen (Poinsettia Bowl Thursday, Dec. 23rd 8 pm ESPN)
The Aztecs may be the most improved team in the nation and they will be making their first bowl appearance since 1998. The offense is high powered with a talented receiving core that should give Navy a real test. The Midshipmen have given up twenty touchdowns through the air this season and I look for QB Ryan Lindley to light up the scoreboard. The biggest concern for the Aztecs is QB Ricky Dobbs, as he is solid running the option. But he was prone to turnovers this season and expect the Aztecs to be able to take advantage when the ball hits the ground. This is a home game for San Diego State and that is a major edge that Navy will not be able to counter. In a high scoring game, I believe that the Aztecs cannot be stopped. The ship does down! SAN DIEGO STATE AZTECS 38, NAVY MIDSHIPMEN 27 |
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12-22-10 | Utah v. Boise State UNDER 59 | Top | 3-26 | Win | 100 | 8 h 12 m | Show |
2-Unit Play. Take 'Under' in Utah vs. Boise State (8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 22) I'm just playing on the letdown for both teams in this spot. For Boise, playing in a pre-Christmas bowl game has to be a huge drag. For Utah, their last game - a 17-16 win against rival BYU in their last meeting as conference opponents - was probably the defining moment of their season. Neither team is going to be too hyped up for this mid-week, pre-Christmas, Who Cares Bowl. Both defenses are underrated and I expect it to be a bit lower scoring.
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12-18-10 | Northern Illinois v. Fresno State UNDER 58 | 40-17 | Win | 100 | 7 h 50 m | Show | |
4-Unit Play. #204. Take Under in Northern Illinois vs. Fresno State (Saturday @ 5:30pm est) While many feel that this will be an offensive showdown, I don't think so. Bear in mind that Northern Illinois comes into this game very hungry from a shocking loss that this team took at the hands of Miami of Ohio. Many thought that this team would be the eventual champs of their conference, but fell short. Nevertheless, this team did get a bit of a boon as they are setup to play Fresno State, a team with a bit more national recognition. This will allow Northern Illinois to get up for this game a bit more. I have both these teams as top 70 teams and whenever either of these teams plays a team that has a respective running game and when facing top 75 competitions, games typically go under the posted total. Northern Illinois is known for a prolific offense that is ranked around the top 20 in the country, but bear in mind they have a top 25 defense as well. This team is also top 20 in points allowed in the country and faces a Fresno State team who is top 70 on offense, but more importantly, they too are a top 50 defense. Northern Illinois is top ten in the country in rushing and I suspect that ball control and running it on the ground while churning up the clock will be a fairly large element of their gameplan. Fresno is also a top 50 rushing attack and I suspect that they too will rush the ball in order to open up their passing game. The Under is 5-0 for the Huskies in their last four neutral site ballgames and the Under is 5-2 when the Bulldogs face a team with a winning record.
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12-04-10 | Connecticut v. South Florida -1 | Top | 19-16 | Loss | -110 | 77 h 4 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #10 Take South Florida Bulls over Connecticut Huskies (Saturday 8 pm ESPN 2)
(2008 USF -3, 17-13) (Connecticut -7, 29-27) The cupboard is full of reasons as to why USF will emerge victorious. 1) The Huskies have never won at Raymond James Stadium 2) Coach Skip Holtz is 5-0 in his last five home games 3) Since 2001, the home team is 6-0 in this match-up Throw in the fact that all the pressure will be on the Huskies, as a win will give them a BCS Bowl. USF will come in loose and ready to spoil UConn |
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12-04-10 | Middle Tenn State +5 v. Florida International | 28-27 | Win | 100 | 75 h 4 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #23 Take Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders over Florida International Golden Panthers (Saturday 6 pm ESPN3)
(2008 |
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12-04-10 | Auburn v. South Carolina +5.5 | 56-17 | Loss | -110 | 73 h 3 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #37 Take South Carolina Gamecocks over Auburn Tigers (Saturday 4 pm CBS)
(2009 |
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12-04-10 | Oregon v. Oregon State +17 | 37-20 | Push | 0 | 73 h 34 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #28 Take Oregon State Beavers over Oregon Ducks (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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12-02-10 | Arizona State +6 v. Arizona | 30-29 | Win | 100 | 29 h 5 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #1 Take Arizona State Sun Devils over Arizona Wildcats (Thursday 8 pm ESPN)
(2008 |
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11-27-10 | Northwestern v. Wisconsin -23 | 23-70 | Win | 100 | 97 h 55 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #54 Take Wisconsin Badgers over Northwestern Wildcats (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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11-27-10 | BYU +9 v. Utah | 16-17 | Win | 100 | 97 h 53 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #71 Take BYU Cougars over Utah Utes (Saturday 3:30 pm the Mtn)
(2008 |
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11-27-10 | Michigan v. Ohio State -17 | 7-37 | Win | 100 | 93 h 24 m | Show | |
6 Unit Play. #68 Take Ohio State Buckeyes over Michigan Wolverines (Saturday 12 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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11-26-10 | Auburn v. Alabama -4.5 | 28-27 | Loss | -105 | 72 h 56 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #22 Take Alabama Crimson Tide over Auburn Tigers (Friday 2:30 pm CBS)
(2008 |
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11-20-10 | Utah v. San Diego State +2.5 | 38-34 | Loss | -105 | 58 h 30 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #106 Take San Diego State Aztecs over Utah Utes (Saturday 10 pm the Mtn)
(2008 |
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11-20-10 | Tennessee -8.5 v. Vanderbilt | 24-10 | Win | 100 | 56 h 59 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #95 Take Tennessee Volunteers over Vanderbilt Commodores (Saturday 7:30 pm ESPN 3)
(2008 |
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11-20-10 | Ohio State v. Iowa UNDER 48 | 20-17 | Win | 100 | 73 h 59 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #20 Take Under in Ohio State Buckeyes @ Iowa Hawkeyes (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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11-20-10 | Penn State -10 v. Indiana | 41-24 | Win | 100 | 69 h 29 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #66 Take Penn State Nittany Lions over Indiana Hoosiers (Saturday 12 pm Big Ten Network)
(2008 |
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11-13-10 | Wyoming v. UNLV Rebels +6 | Top | 16-42 | Win | 100 | 104 h 30 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #114 Take UNLV Rebels over Wyoming Cowboys (Saturday 8 pm the MTN)
(2008 |
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11-13-10 | Georgia +8.5 v. Auburn | 31-49 | Loss | -110 | 74 h 17 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #17 Take Georgia Bulldogs over Auburn Tigers (Saturday 3:30 pm CBS)
(2008 |
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11-13-10 | Penn State Nittany Lions v. Ohio State Buckeyes -18 | 14-38 | Win | 100 | 26 h 25 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #66 Take Ohio State Buckeyes over Penn State Nittany Lions (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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11-13-10 | Vanderbilt v. Kentucky -14.5 | 20-38 | Win | 100 | 71 h 6 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #24 Take Kentucky Wildcats over Vanderbilt Commodores (Saturday 12:20 pm ESPN 3)
(2008 |
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11-13-10 | Iowa v. Northwestern +10 | 17-21 | Win | 100 | 71 h 45 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #30 Take Northwestern Wildcats over Iowa Hawkeyes (Saturday 3:30 pm ESPN U)
(2008 |
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11-06-10 | Arizona State Sun Devils +6 v. USC Trojans | Top | 33-34 | Win | 100 | 82 h 21 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #53 Take Arizona State Sun Devils over USC Trojans (Saturday 10:30 pm FSN)
(2008 |
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11-06-10 | Oklahoma Sooners -3 v. Texas A&M | 19-33 | Loss | -115 | 100 h 47 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #85 Take Oklahoma Sooners over Texas A & M Aggies (Saturday 7 pm FSN)
(2008 |
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11-06-10 | Wyoming Cowboys v. New Mexico Lobos +9.5 | 31-34 | Win | 100 | 75 h 48 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #70 Take New Mexico Lobos over Wyoming Cowboys (Saturday 6 pm the MTN)
(2008 |
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11-06-10 | Temple Owls v. Kent State +3.5 | 28-10 | Loss | -110 | 71 h 48 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #38 Take Kent State Golden Flashes over Temple Owls (Saturday 2 pm)
(2008 |
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11-06-10 | Wisconsin Badgers -20 v. Purdue Boilermakers | 34-13 | Win | 100 | 69 h 47 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #19 Take Wisconsin Badgers over Purdue Boilermakers (Saturday 12 pm BTN)
(2008 |
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11-05-10 | Central Florida Golden Knights v. Houston Cougars UNDER 63 | 40-33 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 28 m | Show | |
2.5-Unit Play. Take 'Under' 61.0 Central Florida at Houston (8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 5) I am not a huge fan of college football totals but I think there is great value on this spot. These are two of the top teams in CUSA and this is a huge game. Not only is it important to each team in the race for the top slot in the league but it is a huge revenge game for the Cougars. Houston's season was derailed a bit by the injury to quarterback Case Keenum. Houston then lost its No. 2 quarterback as well and they have been scrambling ever since. I know that they have lit up opposing defenses for over 100 points in their last two games. However, they faced just two horrendous defenses in those games. Also, UCF and ECU combined for 84 points last week in another critical CUSA game. I think that with all of the points that have been flying around with these two teams this number has gotten pumped up a bit higher than it should be. Houston's defense can actually be decent, and they have stepped up in Keenum's absence. Also, UCF has a Top 10 national defense and they are No. 11 in the country in points against allowing just 16.5 per outing. I like this one to close in the mid-50's for points and for a tight game to produce a low-scoring result.
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10-30-10 | Utah State Aggies v. Nevada Wolf Pack -26 | 42-56 | Loss | -110 | 82 h 32 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #64 Take Nevada Wolf Pack over Utah State Aggies (Saturday 10:30 pm ESPN U)
(2008 |
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10-30-10 | Ohio State -25 v. Minnesota Golden Gophers | 52-10 | Win | 100 | 79 h 19 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #89 Take Ohio State Buckeyes over Minnesota Golden Gophers (Saturday 8 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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10-30-10 | Kentucky Wildcats v. Mississippi State -6 | 17-24 | Win | 100 | 78 h 20 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #82 Take Mississippi State Bulldogs over Kentucky Wildcats (Saturday 7 pm ESPN U)
(2008 |
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10-30-10 | Missouri Tigers v. Nebraska Huskers -7 | 17-31 | Win | 100 | 75 h 49 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #20 Take Nebraska Cornhuskers over Missouri Tigers (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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10-23-10 | Georgia Bulldogs -4 v. Kentucky Wildcats | 44-31 | Win | 100 | 52 h 8 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #15 Take Georgia Bulldogs over Kentucky Wildcats (Saturday 7:30 pm ESPN 3)
(2008 |
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10-23-10 | Wisconsin Badgers v. Iowa Hawkeyes -5.5 | Top | 31-30 | Loss | -110 | 73 h 42 m | Show |
4 Unit Play. #14 Take Iowa Hawkeyes over Wisconsin Badgers (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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10-23-10 | Indiana Hoosiers v. Illinois Fighting Illini -13.5 | 13-43 | Win | 100 | 45 h 38 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #12 Take Illinois Fighting Illini over Indiana Hoosiers (Saturday 12 pm Big Ten Network)
(2008 |
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10-23-10 | Indiana Hoosiers v. Illinois Fighting Illini UNDER 56 | 13-43 | Push | 0 | 45 h 38 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #12 Take Under in Indiana Hoosiers @ Illinois Fighting Illini (Saturday 12 pm Big Ten Network)
(2008 |
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10-23-10 | Notre Dame Fighting Irish -6.5 v. Navy Midshipmen | Top | 17-35 | Loss | -110 | 69 h 11 m | Show |
10 Unit Play. #19 Take Notre Dame Fighting Irish over Navy Midshipmen (Saturday 12 pm CBS)
(2008 |
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10-16-10 | Ohio State -4.5 v. Wisconsin Badgers | 18-31 | Loss | -110 | 127 h 59 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #97 Take Ohio State Buckeyes over Wisconsin Badgers (Saturday 7 pm ESPN)
(2008 Ohio State -1, 20-17) (2009 Ohio State -16, 31-13) This will be the Game of the Week in college football, as ESPN Game Day will make an appearance and expect the crowd to be wild. The Buckeyes are No. 1 in the country, will the Badgers be the team that takes them down? Some folks may compare this game to the South Carolina |
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10-16-10 | Iowa Hawkeyes -3 v. Michigan Wolverines | 38-28 | Win | 100 | 74 h 28 m | Show | |
10 Unit Play. #51 Take Iowa Hawkeyes over Michigan Wolverines (Saturday 3:30 pm ABC)
(2008 |
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10-09-10 | USC Trojans v. Stanford Cardinal -9.5 | 35-37 | Loss | -110 | 78 h 46 m | Show | |
5 Unit Play. #102 Take Stanford Cardinal over USC Trojans (Saturday 8 pm ABC)
(2008 USC -24, 45-23) (2009 USC -10, 21-55) The Trojans are 1-5 ATS this year and the oddsmakers have failed to properly adjust them. Last week |
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10-09-10 | Alabama v. South Carolina +7 | 21-35 | Win | 100 | 73 h 18 m | Show | |
4 Unit Play. #18 Take South Carolina Gamecocks over Alabama Crimson Tide (Saturday 3:30 pm CBS)
(2008 |