Cnotes 2017 NFL Trends/Stats/News/Picks Thru The Super Bowl

[CNOTES]

SNF - Eagles at Seahawks
December 1, 2017


It's apparent a lot has changed in the landscape of NFL's elite as we're already rolling into Week 13. No game offers a better example of the perception change than the Eagles (10-1 straight-up, 9-2 against the spread) being 6-point favorites at Seattle (7-4 SU, 4-6-1 ATS) Sunday night. The Eagles have the best record in the league and cover the spread at the best pace in Las Vegas sports books. If you we're wandering into a CG Technology sports book in May, you would have seen the Seahawks -7 for this game when they posted numbers on the first 16 weeks of games.


That's a 13-point swing which is rare for supposed good teams that didn't have their QB go down. Obviously, Seattle losing half of the Legion of Boom has had an effect, but they were weak in so many other areas in essence because they paid so much cash for the secondary to remain in tact. There was no money left under the salary cap to get a good running back or a a few stud offensive-lineman. All they have is Russell Wilson (3,029 yds, 23 TD, 8 interceptions) running in circles making dramatic plays weekly. He gets real shabby blocking, but without Wilson they wouldn't be contending for a division title or playoff spot. He's also their leading rusher (401 yds) and three TDs.


EAGLES PLAY DESERVES HIGHER SPREADS


At the same time, Seattle is searching for their identity and Philadelphia is stamping their mark on 2017 with weekly dominating performances. Overall, their average score is 32-17 and they've won nine straight, covering the spread in the last eight. Bettors keep betting the Eagles, the books keep losing with them, and then the books raise the rating and add a Luxury tax to slow the public betting patterns. But the bettors still bet it, despite being 25 percent inflated. And they keep winning. So why stop now? The Eagles are a cash cow.


WHO HAVE THE EAGLES BEAT?


Philly's win streak has to end sometime, doesn't it? Wouldn't a night game at rainy Seattle seem like an appropriate location for the upset? A nine-game win streak is amazing, but do a glance at the Eagles opponents and notice the only team with a winning record that they beat was the Panthers. That was before the Panthers put it together during their four-game win streak.


In fact, in almost all nine games, the Eagles opponent was going through its worst issues of the season. Philly kind of swooped in a gave them so more misery to think about. Like the 37-9 win at Dallas with Ezekiel Elliott suspended. Or the 51-23 beat down on Denver, or the 31-3 win over the Bears last week, a team that will not let Mitch Tribusky throw the ball. The Eagles check list of wins and their record now: Giants (2-9), at Chargers (5-6), Cardinals (5-6), at Panthers (8-3), Redskins (5-6), 49ers (1-10), Broncos (3-8), at Cowboys (5-6), Bears (3-8).


Lots of dregs in that group of nine, right? The AFC Division they're playing against is the AFC West, which we know to be weak right now, and the NFC East is weaker than its ever been. The Eagles toughest game will come at Los Angeles next week against the Rams. Then they get turmoil teams with the Giants, Raiders and Cowboys. The playoffs and the upgrade of opponents could be a quick does of reality showing who the Eagles really are. As of now, it's been Philly on streak of beating bad teams and Seattle is close to being in that category. Good luck picking the winner, or more importantly, who covers the spread. There's lots to think about here.

POINT SPREAD MOVEMENT


CG Books opened Seahawks -7 in May, but came back Sunday night and posted Eagles -4 and the number went to -4.5 fast and on Monday it was -5. Tuesday saw it jump to the dead number of -5.5 and easily move to -6 on Wednesday. On Friday, they dropped back down to -5.5 after some respected money took Seattle at its highest offering. The total has dropped from 48 to 47, but no movement since Monday. The cheapest number on the favorite money-line is at Wynn with -230/+195. The best number on the underdog is +210 at Westgate, South Point and MGM books.


ROBERTS' RATING


This is one I'm way off from what actuality is, but I can do some explaining. I have the Eagles 3.5 points better than Seattle and I give the Seahawks a full +3 for home field. I add on an extra half-point for popularity and my number is Philly -1. Yes, it's way off, but this inflated Eagles price is all about the masses betting Philly no matter what the number is. They keep winning so an additional tax is needed on the Eagles beyond what the Eagles really are. Why start at Philly -2.5 when the public will lay -4. And they laid it all the way up to -6 and will continue to lay it all weekend.


THE WONDERFUL WENTZ


I'm way past my days as a kid when I had a favorite player (Randy Gradishar), but I think I'm liking Eagles QB Carson Wentz a lot, as in he's my new favorite player. What's the criteria for favorite player? Pretty much everything he does I like. I love his attitude, demeanor and overall skills. I love how he lowers his shoulder and gives the defender the business when on the run. He's got eyes in the back of his head. He just seems like a guy who brings his lunch pail to work and then hangs out with the guys for two beers after work. Being from North Dakota doesn't hurt, either. Plus, he puts up numbers (2,657 yds, 28 TD, 5 Int) and wins games. He just might give Philadelphia its first Super Bowl champion, and would then certainly be deserving of a statue. Rocky Balboa's not even a real person and he's got one.


TOTALS


The Eagles have averaged a 32-17 score, but have only gone Over the total in six of their 11 games. Their defense has been dominating in their past two games allowing just 3 points to the Bears and 9 points to the Cowboys. Three of their past four games have stayed Under. Seattle has stayed Under in seven of 11 games this season, including three of their past four. They've averaged a 24-19 score and have gone Over in three of five at home. Seattle has covered just one home game this season.


RECENT MEETINGS


Since 2011, Seattle has won and covered the past three meetings with the Eagles, including a 26-15 Seattle home win last November. Seattle was -6.5 in that game and it stayed Under 42.5. The favorite is 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings.


TRENDS


Philadelphia has gone Over in 14 of past 17 road games.
Philadelphia has gone Over in 23 of last 31 December games.
Philadelphia has covered 15 of past 20 Week 13 games.


Seattle has covered 13 of its past 16 Week 13 games.
Seattle Under in 13 of past 18 December games.
Seattle is 0-5-1 ATS in last six home games against team with winning road record.

PLAYOFF STANDINGS


The Eagles would have the No. 1 seed in the NFC while Seattle would miss out as the No. 7 seed. The Falcons are tied with Seattle at 7-4, but Atlanta gets the No. 6 seed based on a 34-31 win at Seattle.


WEEK 14 SPREADS


The Eagles get another tough game next week and they're favored again, this time -3 at the Rams according to odds at the Westgate SuperBook. Should Philly not cover this week and the Rams look decent at Arizona, this number will drop dramatically. Seattle goes across the country to play the Jaguars and are getting +3. The advantage for the Seahawks here is the start time is 1:25 p.m. PT instead of a 10 a.m. start so they'll be playing at their normal time.


DIVISION ODDS


The Westgate has the Rams as the 10/17 favorite to win the NFC West with Seattle getting 7/5. The Eagles runaway freight train in the NFC East has had odds taken down. When odds opened in May, the Eagles were the third choice at 7/2 behind the Cowboys (5/4) and Giants (11/4).


SUPER BOWL ODDS

The Westgate has the Patriots as the 2/1 favorite following by the Steelers (7/2) and Eagles (9/2). Philly opened at 60/1 odds. Seattle, which opened at 12/1 are now 20/1. The Eagles are 8/5 to win the NFC.

 

[CNOTES]

NFL notebook: Packers QB Rodgers returns to practice
December 2, 2017


Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers celebrated his birthday Saturday by practicing with the team for the first time since breaking his collarbone on Oct. 15.


Rodgers, who turned 34, was designated to return off injured reserve on Saturday but can't return to play in a game for at least two more weeks because of the IR rules. The earliest he can return is in Week 15 when the Packers travel to play the Carolina Panthers on Dec. 17.


The 5-6 Packers are home Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7) and travel to Cleveland to face the winless Browns (0-11) the following week before Rodgers' expected return.


Rodgers was seen throwing on the field ahead of last Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers as he continued his recovery from the Oct. 19 surgery. Saturday's practice was closed to reporters.

--The Philadelphia Eagles signed wide receiver Alshon Jeffery to a four-year contract extension through the 2021 season, the team announced.


The deal is worth $52 million and includes $1 million per year in incentives and $27 million in guarantees, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.


The 27-year-old Jeffery came to Philadelphia as a free agent this offseason, signing a one-year deal with the Eagles. He has been a key target for quarterback Carson Wentz.


--The Jacksonville Jaguars released safety Calvin Pryor and promoted defensive end Carroll Phillips to the active roster, the team announced.


Pryor, the former first-round pick of the New York Jets in 2014, played briefly in each of the last two games, making one tackle, after spending most of this season on injured reserve.


Phillips signed with the Jaguars this year as an undrafted rookie free agent out of the University of Illinois. He spent the first 12 weeks of the season on the Jaguars' practice squad.


--The Tampa Bay Buccaneers promoted offensive lineman Mike Liedtke from the practice squad to the active roster.


The 6-foot-3, 305-pound Liedtke has been on Tampa Bay's practice squad this season after spending the final six weeks of the 2016 season on the practice squad. He originally entered the league as a college free agent with the Miami Dolphins in 2015. Liedtke spent the 2015 season between the practice squads of the Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs.


To make room on the roster, the Bucs waived linebacker Cameron Lynch. The 6-0, 229-pound Lynch played in all 11 games for Tampa Bay this season, recording five special teams tackles and a special teams fumble recovery.


--The Indianapolis Colts promoted wide receiver K.J. Brent and center Anthony Fabiano to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. The team also waived running back Matt Jones and waived-injured guard Kyle Kalis.


The 6-foot-3, 202-pound Brent was signed to the Colts' practice squad on Oct. 24. He also spent time on the Seattle Seahawks' practice squad earlier this season. Brent participated in the Oakland Raiders' 2017 offseason program and training camp before being waived during final cuts.


The 6-4, 303-pound Fabiano was signed to Indianapolis' practice squad on Nov. 28. He spent time on the practice squads of the New England Patriots, New York Giants and Washington Redskins this season. As a rookie in 2016, Fabiano spent time on the Cleveland Browns' active roster and practice squad.

 

[stretchrunner147]

Manhandled the Jets?......what game were you watching...

 

[CNOTES]

Essentials - Week 13
December 3, 2017


The Cowboys opened Week 13 with an upset at home, dominating in unlikely fashion. Is it the beginning of a trend? Last week’s action featured favorites covering in weird ways, so we’ll see if the underdogs bite back Sunday. Here’s all you need to know to handicap the action.

Detroit at Baltimore, 1:00 ET: Matthew Stafford failed to put together one of his fourth-quarter comebacks against the Vikings on Thanksgiving because he couldn’t push off after taking a shot to his right leg. He’s expected to play, but will be facing a Ravens defense set to get after him after winning the most recent Monday night game through interceptions of Houston’s Tom Savage. Stafford practiced all week despite an ankle issue, but will not have RB Ameer Abdullah to hand off to due to a neck injury. Theo Riddick is expected to start and the ball will likely be in Stafford’s hands more often than not due to a lack of options. Center Travis Swanson ins out too, while guard T.J. Lang is a game-time decision. The Ravens will have their starting back, Alex Collins, available despite a calf issue, but may be down top corner Jimmy Smith in addition to CB Marlon Humphrey. Although it’s been raining in Baltimore, the weather is expected to clear up by kickoff.


San Francisco at Chicago, 1:00 ET: Jimmy Garoppolo took over for an injured C.J. Beathard last week and threw two passes, one of which went for a score in last week’s loss to Seattle. He’ll start with the 49ers for the first time despite them tanking, so it will be interesting to see whether the team treats him with kid gloves due to his lack of knowledge of the team’s playbook. The expectation is that they’ll keep things simple and ride RB Carlos Hyde, but the weather should allow him to sling it since it’s no longer supposed to be as windy as the original forecast predicted. Tackle Joe Staley is back too, but Trent Brown remains a question mark and would be replaced by veteran Zane Beadles if he can’t go. The Bears gets top linebacker Danny Trevathan back and should be healthier in their defensive backfield despite the absence of Adrian Amos. Up front, veteran guard Josh Sitton will look to play after suffering a concussion.

Minnesota at Atlanta, 1:00 ET: The Vikings look to continue to hang just behind Philadelphia for the NFL’s top record, currently sitting at No. 2 in the NFC. While the Falcons are running third in the NFC South, they’re just one game back of the Panthers and Saints and are averaging nearly 32 points per game during their three-game winning streak. They’ll get RB Devonta Freeman back from a bout with a concussion, but will be without corner Desmond Trufant and may have to score on a Minnesota’s elite defense in order to pull out a win here. Minnesota has one of the healthier teams in football at the moment, potentially missing only tackle Mike Remmers in addition to the few guys already lost for the season that currently reside on IR. If Remmers can’t go, Rashod Hill will make his fourth straight start at right tackle. This will be the second consecutive domed stadium that the Vikes visit that isn’t their own, coming off a win in Detroit. They’re 6-1 in domed stadiums this season, losing only to the Lions at home on Oct. 1.


New England at Buffalo, 1:00 ET: Tom Brady threw for 833 yards and accounted for 10 touchdowns in November, completing nearly 74 percent of his passes. He’s done so without starting center David Andrews and tackle Marcus Cannon available in addition to key WR Chris Hogan, and may not have tackle LaAdrian Waddle available today. Defensively, a Pats team already thin along the defensive line will be without Trey Flowers, so we’ll see whether Buffalo QB Tyrod Taylor can take advantage. The Bills have already ruled out tackle Cordy Glenn, guard John Miller and fullback Mike Tolbert. Seantrel Henderson is questionable with an illness, so the Bills are down to just a pair of healthy tackles and could be in real trouble if they sustain an in-game injury. A little wind is expected in upstate New York, but the weather will otherwise be pretty balmy compared to typical December weather there, with temperatures reaching a high as 50 degrees. Buffalo will be playing the first of three straight home games here, hosting the Colts and Dolphins next. They’ll play at New England on Dec. 24.

Denver at Miami, 1:00 ET: The Broncos have dropped seven straight and the Dolphins have fallen in five in a row, so one of those streaks should end today. Temperatures are going to be in the 80s at kickoff, so we’ll see if there’s any effect on Denver, which will turn to Trevor Siemian at QB once again after starting Paxton Lynch last week and watching him exit with an ankle injury. The Dolphins get Jay Culter back from concussion protocol and won’t have to deal with CB Aqib Talib, who will miss this contest due to a one-game suspension after fighting Oakland WR Michael Crabtree last week. The Broncos are without DE Derek Wolfe and nose Domata Peko in addition to numerous other question marks up front, so we’ll see if the Kenyan Drake-led rushing attack can make some inroads for Miami. Denver has scored more than 20 points only once since mid-September and haven’t won on the road all season. The last six Dolphins games have all topped the posted total as the defense has surrendered an average of over 34 points per contest.


Houston at Tennessee, 1:00 ET: The Texans had an opportunity to win on Monday night before Savage threw the game away with another inexcusable interception, but he remains the team’s best option at the position and will be under center again. WR Will Fuller remains out, but the defense will have Jadeveon Clowney out there despite an ankle issue and gets linebacker Brian Cushing back from suspension. The Titans are far healthier and will look to take advantage in their lone home game in a five-game stretch that saw them play at Pittsburgh and Indy to end November and calls for them to visit Arizona and San Francisco up next. Jacksonville comes through Nashville in the season finale on a New Year’s eve, so the Titans are just looking to stay within striking distance for the AFC South lead until then. Tennessee will look to split the season series against the Texans after losing in Houston 57-14 on Oct. 1 in a game that Deshaun Watson dominated.

Indianapolis at Jacksonville, 1:00 ET: The Colts have dropped five of six, a string that includes a 27-0 loss to the Jaguars at home on Oct. 22. The ‘under’ has prevailed in four of their last five games as they continue to sputter offensively, which obviously plays into the Jaguars’ hands given how their team is built. Jacksonville gave up its second-largest output of the season in last Sunday’s 27-24 loss in Arizona and will have top corner Jalen Ramsey in the mix after he played hurt last week. Blake Bortles will be operating behind an offensive line that’s extremely banged up, so look for the Jags to rely heavily on their running game. After being outscored 128-49 in its first three road games, Indianapolis has covered in its last two trips, losing just 24-23 at Cincinnati while beating Houston on Nov. 5.


Tampa Bay at Green Bay, 1:00 ET: If everything works out according to plan, this will be the last time someone other than Aaron Rodgers starts for the Packers at Lambeau Field this season. Green Bay has only its Week 16 date against Minnesota remaining following this one, and hopes Brett Hundley can perform a lot better than he has to date since the Ravens shut him out 23-0 last time he took the field as the starter there. The Bucs are playing their third straight road game and welcome back Jameis Winston from a shoulder injury. The over is 5-1 in Tampa Bay road games. With the temperature potentially getting up as high as 50 degrees, both offenses should be able to move the ball. Key defensive players Clay Matthews and Kenny Clark are listed as questionable, while corner Kevin King has already been ruled out. The Bucs will be missing multiple players from their secondary, so Hundley will have an opportunity to do damage if he finds a rhythm.

Kansas City at N.Y. Jets, 1:00 ET: The Chiefs have dropped three straight games to see their AFC West lead dwindle to just a single game over the Raiders and Chargers. Alex Smith has struggled mightily in leading an offense that has managed an average of just 12 points per game in those setbacks, the last two of which have come despite Kansas City coming in as a heavy favorite. The Chiefs managed just nine points in an OT loss at Met Life Stadium against the Giants just two weeks ago, as the offense was unable to move the ball consistently due to heavy winds. It’s expected to be clear with limited wind today in East Rutherford, so the Chiefs will have a better chance to move the ball comfortably. Defensively, Kansas City will have Darrelle Revis make his season debut, but won’t have pass rusher Dee Ford and may again be without Tamba Hali. New York has averaged 27 points over its last three home games and has seen Robbie Anderson emerge as a consistent deep threat.

Cleveland at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 ET: Despite coming in with a losing record, L.A. is the heaviest favorite in Week 13, squaring off against the winless Browns. Josh Gordon will start as he comes off suspension, so combined with Corey Coleman, they’ll have their best receiving options available for rookie QB DeShone Kizer. Chargers corner Casey Hayward will play despite leaving the team briefly following the death of his brother, while nose tackle Corey Liuget is listed as questionable. Kicker Nick Novak is out, so L.A. signed Travis Coons to handle those duties as they look to get back to .500 for the first time after opening 0-4. A victory would give them their second three-game winning streak of the season. Philip Rivers threw for 434 yards and three TDs against the Cowboys and will be looking to build on his best performance in years.

Carolina at New Orleans, 4:25 ET: Arguably the game of the day, the winner here will take over sole possession of the NFC South lead. The Saints handed the Panthers their first loss of the season in Charlotte with a resounding 34-13 win in Week 3, but run into a hot team that won and covered in all four of their November contests. The defense has picked up their level of play since getting Luke Kuechly back from a concussion and will have LB Thomas Davis and corner Captain Munnerlyn out there. With center Ryan Kalil and tight end Greg Olson also back, Carolina has all of its key pieces in place to try and close out the regular season’s final month with momentum. The Saints will have corner Marshon Lattimore back in addition to DB Ken Crawley, having missed both in last week’s loss at the Rams. The setback snapped an eight-game winning streak. Although New Orleans has won its last four in the Superdome, it has only covered in two of those contests.

L.A. Rams at Arizona, 4:25 ET: The Cardinals look to remain alive by beating the NFC West-leading Rams here, hoping that Blaine Gabbert’s solid play continues after he impressively handled the Jaguars at home last week. The Cards are back in Glendale next week to welcome in the Titans, so there’s no question they can make a run but lack no room for error. The Rams beat Arizona in London 33-0 back on Oct. 22, injuring Carson Palmer for the season. A challenging month sees them home for the Eagles next week before road games in Seattle and Tennessee, so handling business here would definitely take some of the pressure off their young roster. The Rams are among the NFL’s healthiest teams, while Arizona is down DT Corey Peters and key hybrid LB Deone Bucannon.


N.Y. Giants at Oakland, 4:25 ET: Amari Cooper wasn’t cleared to participate and Michael Crabtree is serving a suspension, so Derek Carr will be down his top two targets here. Complicating matters, WR Cordarrelle Patterson is dealing with a hip issue that he’s expected to play through, so Seth Roberts is likely to be the top receiving option alongside tight end Jared Cook. It’s expected to be a cool night in Oakland, where Geno Smith will debut as the starting quarterback for the Giants, replacing Eli Manning. Rookie Davis Webb, who went to school at Cal in nearby Berkeley, is also expected to get snaps. Versatile offensive lineman Justin Pugh will sit out another game, but both Smith and Webb will have WR Sterling Shepard to throw to since he’s been cleared to play after issues with migraines.

Philadelphia at Seattle, 8:30 ET: The Sunday night showdown will see the Seahawks attempt to make one last stand at home with their offensive line loaded with Duane Brown and Luke Joeckel in the mix. Earl Thomas is also back to help anchor a new-look secondary missing Kam Chancellor and Richard Sherman, absences that Carson Wentz will look to take advantage of as he seeks to improve on the NFL’s best record. Philly will have center Jason Kelce in the mix, so both offenses should be able to move the ball on what’s expected to be a cold, cloudy night. Rain isn’t going to be a factor as the Seahawks look to post consecutive wins for the first time since late October. They’ve dropped two straight at home and face an Eagles team that has traveled well this season, going 4-1 straight up and against the spread outside of Philly.

 

[CNOTES]

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3
GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS


TB at GB 01:00 PM
TB +3.0
U 45.5


MIN at ATL 01:00 PM
ATL -2.5
U 48.5


IND at JAC 01:00 PM
JAC -10.0
O 41.0


KC at NYJ 01:00 PM
NYJ +4.0
U 44.0


DET at BAL 01:00 PM
BAL -3.0
U 43.5


NE at BUF 01:00 PM
BUF +7.5
O 48.5


SF at CHI 01:00 PM
SF +2.5
O 42.0


HOU at TEN 01:00 PM
HOU +7.0
O 42.5


DEN at MIA 01:00 PM
MIA +1.5
U 41.0


CLE at LAC 04:05 PM
LAC -13.0
O 44.0


CAR at NO 04:25 PM
CAR +5.0
O 47.5


LAR at ARI 04:25 PM
LAR -7.0
U 43.0


NYG at OAK 04:25 PM
NYG +8.5
U 42.5


PHI at SEA 08:30 PM
PHI -3.5
U 46.0

 

[CNOTES]

NFL Today, Week 13
December 3, 2017


SCOREBOARD


Monday, Dec. 4


Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 8:30 p.m. EST. Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown and the AFC North-leading Steelers (9-2) bring a six-game winning streak to division rival Cincinnati (5-6), which has won two straight to get back into playoff contention. The Steelers won the previous meeting between the teams, 29-14 in Week 7. Despite the Steelers' multitude of weapons on offense, they have been inconsistent at times and are just 13th in the league in points per game. The Bengals' defense is allowing 19.5 points per game, 10th in the league. Cincinnati's two straight wins came against reeling Denver and Cleveland, and the Bengals have not beaten a team that currently has a winning record. However, they have not lost at home since Week 2.


---


STARS


Passing


-Alex Smith, Chiefs, went 19 for 33 for 366 yards and four touchdowns in the Chiefs' 38-31 loss to the Jets.


-Philip Rivers, Chargers, completed 31 of 43 passes for 344 yards and a touchdown as Los Angeles beat winless Cleveland, 19-10.


-Russell Wilson, Seahawks, was 20 of 31 for 227 and three touchdown in Seattle's 24-10 home victory over Philadelphia.


-Josh McCown, Jets, went 26 of 36 for 331 yards and a touchdown as New York beat Kansas City.


-Blake Bortles, Jaguars, completed 26 of 35 passes for 309 yards, with TD passes to Marqise Lee and Keelan Cole, in the Jaguars' 30-10 win over the Indianapolis Colts.


-Joe Flacco, Ravens, had his best game of the season, completing 23 of 36 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns while guiding an offense that did not commit a turnover in Baltimore's 44-20 victory over the Detroit Lions.


Rushing


-Kenyan Drake, Dolphins, ran for 120 yards on 23 carries - both career highs - and a touchdown in Miami's 35-9 victory over the Denver Broncos.


-Jamaal Williams, Packers, had 21 carries for 113 yards and a touchdown in Green Bay's 26-20 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.


-Derrick Henry, Titans, rushed for 109 yards on just 11 carries and had a touchdown in the Titans' 24-13 win over the Houston Texans.


-Marshawn Lynch, Raiders, had his first 100-yard game since coming out of retirement, gaining 101 yards on 17 carries - including a 51-yard touchdown run - in Oakland's 24-17 win over the New York Giants.


-Alvin Kamara, Saints, ran for 60 yards and two tackle-shedding touchdowns and caught five passes for 66 yards in the Saints' 31-21 win over the Carolina Panthers. Teammate Mark Ingram ran for 85 yards, doing most of his damage on a 72-yard run early in the second quarter. Two plays later, he scored from 3 yards.


-Todd Gurley, Rams, carried 19 times for 74 yards and caught six passes for 84 yards in Los Angeles' 32-16 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.


Receiving


-Tyreek Hill, Chiefs, caught six passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns, including a 79-yarder, in Kansas City's 38-31 loss to the New York Jets.


-Jermaine Kearse, Jets, had nine receptions for 157 yards in New York's win over Kansas City, and teammate Robby Anderson caught eight passes for 107 yards.


-Rob Gronkowski, Patriots, had his best game of the season with nine catches for 147 yards in New England's 23-3 win over the Buffalo Bills.


-Mike Wallace, Ravens, went over 100 yards for the second time this season, with five catches for 116 yards in the Ravens' 44-20 win over the Detroit Lions.


-Keenan Allen, Chargers, had 10 catches for 105 yards and a touchdown in his third straight big game for surging Los Angeles, which beat the winless Cleveland Browns 19-10.

Special Teams


-Robbie Gould, 49ers, made all five field-goal attempts - none longer than 35 yards - including the winning, 24-yarder in the closing seconds as San Francisco beat his former team, the Chicago Bears, 15-14. Gould, cut by Chicago prior to the 2016 opener, pumped his right arm and screamed at the Bears on the sideline after his final kick.


-Greg Zuerlein, Rams, was 4 for 4 on field goals, including a 56-yarder, in Los Angeles' 32-16 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Zuerlein did miss an extra point.


-Justin Tucker, Ravens, made all three of his field-goal attempts, including a key 51-yarder in the fourth quarter of Baltimore's 44-20 victory over the Detroit Lions.


-Michael Brockers, Rams, blocked Phil Dawson's try for a 45-yard field goal that would have cut Los Angeles' lead to seven points early in the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals. The Rams also blocked an extra point in their 32-16 victory, and Pharoh Cooper had a 30-yard punt return to set up a touchdown.


Defense


- Xavien Howard, Dolphins, returned an interception for a touchdown, the first interception by a Miami outside cornerback this season, and had another interception that set up a fourth-quarter TD in Miami's 35-9 win over the Denver Broncos. The Dolphins also had two safeties, a first in franchise history.


-Eric Weddle, Ravens, had a strip-sack of Detroit's Matthew Stafford that led to a touchdown, and later returned an interception for a touchdown against backup Jake Rudock. Baltimore forced three turnovers to extend its league-leading total to 29 in the 44-20 victory over the Lions.


-Clay Matthews, Packers, had 2 1-2 sacks, Kenny Clark added two sacks, and Green Bay sacked Tampa Bay's Jameis Winston seven times overall in a 26-20 overtime victory over the Buccaneers.


-The Vikings held Matt Ryan without a touchdown pass for the first time in 30 games, and Julio Jones had just two catches for 24 yards. Minnesota also kept Atlanta out of the end zone on the way to a 14-9 victory.


-Alex Ogletree, Rams, intercepted the Cardinals' Blaine Gabbert and returned it 41 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of Los Angeles' 32-16 victory. Ogletree did a head-first flip into the end zone and left the game shortly thereafter with an elbow injury, but he said he did not get hurt on the flip.


STREAKS & STATS


Chargers receiver Keenan Allen became the first player in league history to have 10 or more catches, 100 or more yards and one or more touchdowns in three consecutive games. ... A 70-yard run by the Chiefs' Alex Smith was the longest by a quarterback this season. Smith also became the first player since the 1970 merger to have a 70-yard run and a pass of 70 or more yards (79 to Tyreek Hill) in the same game. Carolina's Cam Newton had a 69-yard run earlier this year. ... Saints running backs Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara combined for 248 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns, the fifth straight game in which they totaled at least 200 scrimmage yards.


REMEMBER WHEN?


The AFC West didn't look like it would be all that competitive when the Chiefs started the season 5-0, and if any team appeared capable of a challenge, it wasn't the Los Angeles Chargers, who began 0-4. But Kansas City has since dropped six of seven, including Sunday's undisciplined 38-31 loss to the Jets, and LA has won six of eight after beating the Browns 19-10. Meanwhile, the Oakland Raiders improved to 6-6 with a win over the New York Giants, creating a three-way tie atop the division.


SAME OLD, SAME OLD


Tom Brady continued his career-long dominance of the Buffalo Bills, and he didn't even need to throw a touchdown pass to do it. Brady went 21 of 30 for 258 yards and an interception in New England's 23-3 victory. He improved to 27-3 against Buffalo and broke Brett Favre's record for wins by a quarterback against any one opponent. New England never trailed, and Brady was content to hand off in the second half and let the Patriots' rejuvenated rushing attack wear down the Bills. Nearly always comfortable at Orchard Park, New York, New England has been good everywhere on the road, winning 14 consecutive away games - the second-longest streak in NFL history. The Patriots also reached double digits in victories for the 15th consecutive season.


OFFENSIVE AWAKENING

The Ravens came into their game against the Lions with the NFL's 31st-ranked offense, but were efficient on Sunday, with Joe Flacco directing three scoring drives in the second quarter and three more in the fourth quarter of a 44-20 victory.


Flacco threw for 269 yards and two touchdowns and was not intercepted. Mike Wallace caught five passes for 116 yards, going over 100 for the second time this season, and Alex Collins ran 15 times for 75 yards and two touchdowns. Baltimore gained 370 yards to Detroit's 372, but much of the Lions' offense came with Detroit in a big hole. Baltimore's opportunistic defense did its part, too, forcing three turnovers, including Eric Weddle's interception return for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Justin Tucker, ranked the league's top kicker in positional rankings released Friday by The Associated Press, was 3 for 3 on field goals, including a 51-yarder that gave the Ravens a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter.


TWO FOR TWO


The Dolphins had two safeties in a game for the first time in franchise history in their 35-9 win over Denver, both of them on mistakes by the free-falling Broncos that could increase the heat on embattled first-year coach Vance Joseph. Miami took a 2-0 lead when the Broncos botched a third-down play at their 5. Matt Paradis' high snap deflected off Siemian's hands, and the ball squirted out of the back of the end zone. Joseph would not commit to Siemian remaining as the team's starter next week. In the fourth quarter, Denver's Isaiah McKenzie fumbled on a punt return and recovered in his end zone for another safety.


MILESTONES


New England's Tom Brady got his 27th win over Buffalo, breaking Brett Favre's record for wins by a quarterback against a single opponent. Favre beat Detroit 26 times. Brady also became the fourth player in league history to surpass 65,000 passing yards, joining Peyton Manning, Favre and Drew Brees. ... New England won its 10th game for the 15th consecutive season, the second-longest streak in league history. San Francisco had at least 10 wins in 16 straight seasons from 1983-1998. ... Saints quarterback Brees has 6,127 career completions, surpassing Manning for second place all-time. Favre leads with 6,300 career completions. ... Saints rookie Alvin Kamara has 614 receiving yards and 606 rushing yards this season, joining Charley Taylor (1964) and Billy Sims (1980) as the only rookies to have at least 600 yards rushing and receiving. ... Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald had 10 catches and became the third player in league history with more than 1,200 career receptions, joining Jerry Rice and Tony Gonzalez. He reached the milestone in his 214th game, faster than either Rice or Gonzalez. Fitzgerald also passed Isaac Bruce for fourth place all-time in receiving yards with 15,267.


SIDELINED


Jimmy Smith, the top cornerback on the Ravens' dominant defense, tore his Achilles tendon on a non-contact play in Baltimore's 44-20 win over the Detroit Lions and will miss the rest of the season, coach John Harbaugh said. ... Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford left with a bruised and bloodied right hand after it was stepped on, but X-rays were negative. ... Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor hurt his left knee on the opening series of Buffalo's 23-3 loss to the New England Patriots. He played through the injury before leaving the game early in the fourth quarter, and was limping heavily in the locker room. He did not speak to reporters but nodded his head ''Yes'' when asked if he was OK. ... Bills tight end Tre'Davious White was being evaluated for a concussion after he was struck by Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski while lying on the ground. Gronkowski apologized for the hit after the game. ... The Houston Texans suffered several injuries, with tight end C.J. Fiederowicz being evaluated for a concussion. Receiver Braxton Miller and running back Alfred Blue also suffered concussions. Cornerback Johnathan Joseph was ruled out just after halftime with an injured shoulder. Receiver Bruce Ellington also couldn't finish against Tennessee with an injured hamstring. ... Vikings tight end David Morgan went out in the first quarter against Atlanta with a concussion. Falcons guard Andy Levitre sustained a triceps injury in the first quarter and didn't return.


SPEAKING


''That's just dirty football. There's nowhere in our game for that. I don't know if it was a shoulder, elbow. I'm not sure what it was. That was dirty.'' - Bills safety Micah Hyde after Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski struck Tre'Davious White, who was lying on the ground after intercepting Tom Brady.


---


''I'm not in the business of that. It was a lot of frustration. I just want to apologize to Tre'Davious White. I don't really believe in those type of shots.'' - Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski after he struck White while the player was lying on the ground.

 

[CNOTES]

NFL notebook: Giants may fire McAdoo
December 3, 2017


New York Giants ownership may be ready to fire coach Ben McAdoo after Sunday's loss against the Oakland Raiders, which would come less than a week after the benching of quarterback Eli Manning created a backlash from fans.


ESPN's Chris Mortensen and Adam Schefter are reporting that McAdoo could be fired within 24 hours after the game. General manager Jerry Reese's standing with the 2-10 Giants is also on shaky ground but any timing on his potential departure is more uncertain than McAdoo's, ESPN reported.


Manning, who started 210 straight games for the Giants, fought back tears on Tuesday as he talked about the stunning decision by McAdoo to name Geno Smith the starting quarterback for Sunday's game.


Giants owner John Mara reportedly was not happy with how McAdoo presented the plan to the franchise's two-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback.

--Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore moved into fifth place on the NFL's all-time rushing list during a 30-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.


Gore rushed for 61 yards as he moved ahead of Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (13,684) with a 16-yard run in the third quarter. Gore finished the day with 13,697 career rushing yards


Gore, 34, also passed another Hall of Famer in Jerome Bettis (13,662) in the second quarter of the contest. Gore spent his first 10 seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and is in his third season with the Colts.


--Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid gave up his play-calling duties for Sunday's game against the New York Jets, handing over the responsibilities to offensive coordinator Matt Nagy.


The move didn't prevent the struggling Chiefs (6-6) from falling 38-31 to the Jets for their fourth straight loss and sixth in seven games.


Despite the losses, Reid has given strong support to quarterback Alex Smith. However, the veteran will be on a shorter "leash," sources told ESPN.


--Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor left the game during a 23-3 loss to the New England Patriots with a knee injury and Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White was escorted to the locker room and evaluated for a head injury during the fourth quarter.


Taylor wrapped a towel over his head as he was carted to the locker room early in the fourth quarter. He was able to walk off the field under his own power on the Bills' previous possession. It was unclear on what play Taylor got injured. He was sacked three times in the game and had three rushes.


White was injured after intercepting a Tom Brady pass along the sideline. Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski drove his shoulder into White's back while he was lying face down on the turf after the whistle. Gronkowski was penalized for unnecessary roughness on the play and apologized after the game.


--Baltimore Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during the 44-20 victory over the Detroit Lions.


Ravens coach Jim Harbaugh revealed the seriousness of the injury after the contest.


Smith has been dealing with a sore Achilles for the past several weeks and went down untouched late in the second quarter with the Ravens leading 17-0.

--Los Angeles Rams linebacker Alec Ogletree exited the 32-16 victory over the Arizona Cardinals with an elbow injury.


Ogletree began the game in strong fashion, returning an interception 41 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. He picked off a Blaine Gabbert pass and ran it back with 2:45 left in the first quarter to help give the Rams a 16-0 lead.


Ogletree flipped into the end zone and landed awkwardly, although it wasn't immediately known if that played a part in his injury.


--Minnesota Vikings backup tight end David Morgan suffered a concussion in the first quarter of a 14-9 victory over the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.


The Falcons lost left guard Andy Levitre to a triceps injury in the first quarter.

 

[CNOTES]

DECEMBER NFL BEST BETS & OPINIONS ( BASED ON 5 UNITS )


DATE W-L-T % UNITS RECORD


12/03/2017 11-17-0 39.28% -38.50




BEST BETS:......................ATS......................UNITS.........................O/U....................UNITS


12/032/2017..................5 - 5.....................-2.50............................5 - 5..................-2.50




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




MNF - Steelers at Bengals
December 3, 2017


The Steelers (9-2 SU, 6-5 ATS) were expected to cruise against the banged-up Packers, but Pittsburgh squeezed out a 31-28 victory as 14-point favorites at Heinz Field. Chris Boswell drilled a 53-yard field goal with no time remaining to break a 28-28 tie, as the Steelers racked up 462 yards of offense to pick up their sixth consecutive victory since a 21-point home loss to Jacksonville in Week 5.


Ben Roethlisberger tossed four touchdown passes to go along with 351 yards for Pittsburgh, including two of those scores to Antonio Brown, who hauled in 169 yards on 10 catches. Pittsburgh’s defense allowed four touchdowns for the first time this season, but the Steelers fell to 0-3 ATS this season when listed as a double-digit favorite.


The Bengals (5-6 SU, 6-5 ATS) continue to hang around the AFC Wild Card race after picking up their second straight win last Sunday. Cincinnati took care of Cleveland, 30-16 to cash as 7 ½-point home favorites and pull off the season sweep of the Browns. Joe Mixon’s 11-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter helped aid Cincinnati with the cover, while the former Oklahoma standout produced his first ever 100-yard performance by compiling 114 yards on 23 carries.


In spite of the victory, the Bengals were outgained from a yardage standpoint for the sixth consecutive contest. Cincinnati covered for the third straight game, but Marvin Lewis’ club is seeking its first three-game winning streak since starting 8-0 in 2015.


ROAD WARRIORS


Mike Tomlin’s squad has won five of six games away from Heinz Field this season with the lone loss coming in overtime at Chicago in Week 3. The Steelers have picked up victories in each of their first two road contests against AFC North foes by beating Cleveland in Week 1 by a 21-18 count as 10-point favorites, while routing Baltimore, 26-9 in Week 4. Pittsburgh has compiled at least two divisional road wins in each of the past three seasons, while putting together a 4-3 ATS record in its last seven away AFC North contests as a favorite.

POINT THE WAY


Cincinnati is listed as a home underdog for the first time this season, but the Bengals have been a profitable team in this situation over the years. Dating back to 2013, Cincinnati owns a solid 6-1 ATS record when receiving points at Paul Brown Stadium. The only loss came to the Steelers last season as three-point ‘dogs in Week 15 in a 24-20 setback, as five of those ATS wins were also straight-up victories.


TOTAL TALK


The Steelers produced consecutive OVERS for the first time this season in last Sunday’s nail-biting win against the Packers. Pittsburgh began the season by producing the UNDER in six consecutive games before hitting the OVER in three of the past five contests. Cincinnati has been inconsistent from a totals standpoint this season as four of the first five games stayed UNDER the total, but the Bengals are currently on a 4-2 OVER run.


SERIES HISTORY


Pittsburgh has owned Cincinnati over the years by winning five straight meetings and compiling a 7-1 record since December 2013. The Steelers and Bengals were tied at 14-14 in their first meeting back in Week 7 at Heinz Field, but Pittsburgh scored the final 15 points of the game on five Boswell field goals to pick up a 29-14 victory as four-point favorites. Le’Veon Bell ran all over the Cincinnati defense for 134 yards on 35 carries, while Roethlisberger connected on a pair of touchdowns with Brown and rookie Juju Smith-Schuster.


The Steelers have also had their way against the Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium by capturing four consecutive wins in the Queen City since 2014. Each of the past two wins at Cincinnati came by a combined six points, while the Bengals squandered a 20-6 lead in a 24-20 defeat last season as Roethlisberger hooked up with Eli Rogers on the go-ahead 24-yard touchdown strike in the fourth quarter.


GAME PROPS – According to Las Vegas Westgate Superbook


1st Score of the Game
Touchdown -145
Other Score +125


Total Completions – Ben Roethlisberger
OVER 22 ½ (-110)
UNDER 22 ½ (-110)


Total Touchdown Passes – Ben Roethlisberger
OVER 1 ½ (-150)
UNDER 1 ½ (+130)


Total Rushing Yards – Le’Veon Bell
OVER 86 ½ (-110)
UNDER 86 ½ (-110)


Total Gross Passing Yards – Andy Dalton
OVER 232 ½ (-110)
UNDER 232 ½ (-110)


Total Touchdown Passes – Andy Dalton
OVER 1 ½ (Even)
UNDER 1 ½ (-120)


Will A.J. Green score a touchdown?
YES +115
NO -135


HANDICAPPER’S CORNER


VegasInsider.com trends expert Vince Akins provides a play-against trend on Pittsburgh, “The Steelers are 0-10-1 ATS as a road favorite since 2006 coming off a win as a favorite where they scored at least 30 points.” In each of the last three seasons, Pittsburgh has lost outright in this role, including a 30-15 setback at Miami in 2016. Akins also supplied an UNDER trend for Cincinnati, “The Bengals are 0-12 OU as a dog of more than three points coming off a home game where they scored more points than expected since 2006.”


BOOKMAKER’S TAKE


Scott Cooley of BookMaker.eu says the sharps favor the home team, “The public likes Pittsburgh at anything less than a touchdown, but the smart money has been on the Bengals. We’ve adjusted down a half point off the opener, and we could see the number drop even more if Antonio Brown is absent. Currently, we have more than 70 percent of the tickets on the Steelers, but the money favors Cincy 60-40.”

 

[CNOTES]

Armadillo: Monday's six-pack


Six most popular picks for Week 13 in the Westgate Super Contest:


6) Pittsburgh Steelers -5 (534)


5) New England Patriots -8.5 (605)- W


4) Minnesota Vikings +3 (744)- W


3) New Orleans Saints -4 (829)- W


2) Seattle Seahawks +6 (880)- W


1) Green Bay Packers +1.5 (1,016)- W


Season record of top 6 picks: 37-40




**********


Armadillo: Monday's List of 13: Wrapping up an NFL Sunday


Saints 31, Panthers 21— New Orleans won its 9th game in last 10 tries, sweeping season series with Panthers; they lead NFC South by a game over Carolina, two over Atlanta- they play Falcons two of next three weeks. Saints scored 30+ points in four of last five games. Carolina ran ball for only 112 yards, after running it for 213 yards/week in previous three games.


Ravens 44, Lions 20— Baltimore is 3-0 since its bye, winning by 23-7-24 points; five of their seven wins are vs backup-type QB’s, but they also KO’d Stafford here with a hand injury. Ravens are now +20 in turnovers in their seven wins, -6 in their five losses. Detroit has run ball for only 65.3 ypg the last three weeks- they’re two games out of the playoff picture now.


49ers 15, Bears 14— Niners’ kicker Robbie Gould is the Bears’ all-time leading scoring leader; he kicked five FG’s here to beat Chicago on an oddly-warm December day in the Windy City. QB Garoppolo wins his first 49ers start; he is 3-0 as an NFL starting QB. Tarik Cohen ran a punt back for a TD for Chicago, a great highlight-film type run. 49ers were one of four teams Sunday not to score an offensive TD; other three lost, by 20-5-36 points.


Vikings 14, Falcons 9— Minnesota won its last eight games, covered last seven; Case Keenum might be MVP of the freakin’ league. Vikings have another tough road game next week, agains the Panthers in Charlotte. Falcons were held to 17 or less points in their five losses- they scored 23+ in all their wins- they scored 27-34-34 points in last three games before this one.


Patriots 23, Bills 3— New England won its last eight games, covered last six; Patriots’ opponents started their last 102 drives in their own territory, the longest-such streak in over a decade. Pats have started 15 drives in enemy territory this season. Tyrod Taylor got hurt late in this game, which means Nathan Peterman probably gets another start against Indy at home next week.


Dolphins 35, Broncos 9— Denver’s offense is so pathetic, they were outscored 9-0 by the Miami defense in this game. Broncos have now lost eight games in a row (0-8 vs spread); they’ve lost field position battle by 11+ yards in five of their last six games, which is really bad. As bad a QB as Geno Smith is, he’s head and shoulders above any of Denver’s QB’s. Broncos are 0-6 on the road, 0-4 as a road underdog. I can picture Eli Manning playing there next season.


Titans 24, Texans 13— Tennessee has won six of its last seven games; they were headed for yet another tight win, leading 17-13 when they stopped Houston in their territory with 1:08 left, but then Derrick Henry broke free for a 75-yard TD with 0:46 left to give Titan backers the cover. Texans are now 1-5 in Savage starts, though Savage did pass for 365 yards in this game.


Jaguars 30, Colts 10— Indy lost six of last seven games; they’re 2-4 as road underdogs, with road losses by 37-28-1-14-20 points, with win at Watson-less Houston. Jaguars were 9-15 on third down in this game, after being 12-50 in their previous three games. Colts lost six of their last seven games; hard to believe they won’t have a new coach next season.


Packers 26, Buccaneers 20— Packers’ RB Aaron Jones ran 20 yards for a walk-off TD in OT, on his first carry of the game. Tampa lost seven of its last eight games; teams really aren’t going to want to do Hard Knocks anymore- Jeff Fisher got fired last year, Bucs are 4-8 this year after their coach/GM did lot of talking this summer about how great Tampa Bay’s talent is. Packers are back at .500 and play Cleveland this week; they’re not dead yet.


Jets 38, Chiefs 31— Kansas City started season 5-0, is now in a 3-way tie atop AFC West at 6-6. Alex Smith threw for 366 yards, four TD’s in a losing cause- not often an NFL team averages over 10 yards per play and loses. Andy Reid gave up play-calling duties for this game, and that helped, but it didn’t help KC’s defense. Chiefs led this game 14-0 after 4:24, but lost in Swamp Stadium for second time in three weeks.


Chargers 19, Browns 10— Josh Gordon caught four balls for 85 yards in his first NFL game in three years, but UNTIL CLEVELAND DRAFTS A QB, they’re still going to be dreadful. Chargers have now won six of their last seven games and are tied for first place with four games left. Bolts are 28-43 on third down in their last three games.


Rams 32, Cardinals 16— Rams’ MLB/defensive QB Alex Ogletree had a pick-6 early in this game, then left game with hyperextended elbow— he didn’t play in second half. Rams’ 16-0 lead had shrunk to 16-13 late in 2nd quarter, but as usual, LA played really well in second half and won going away. Todd Gurley had 158 all-purpose yards and the special teams were terrific.


Raiders 24, Giants 17— Giants made a 52-yard FG with 1:38 left for the backdoor cover; if you wagered on the Giants here, good for you, but it was their first game since 2004 that someone other than Eli Manning started at QB. Have to keep in mind that Raiders played without their top two WR’s (Cooper/Crabtree). Three of Oakland’s last four games are on road, including games at Chiefs/Chargers- they’re tied for first place with both of them.


Seahawks 24, Eagles 10— Win puts Seattle back in playoff picture; they were outgained 425-310 in this game, but Wentz’s fumble near goal line was fatal blow for Eagles here. Philly has 4-game lead in NFC East with four weeks left, so not lot of urgency for them, other than home field/bye in playoffs. This loss snapped 9-game winning streak for Iggles. Seattle was 6-12 on 3rd down in this game, breaking a recent trend of Philly’s defense dominating on third down.

 

[CNOTES]

NFL


Monday, December 4


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday Night Football Betting Preview and Odds: Steelers at Bengals
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals (+4.5, 43)


The Cincinnati Bengals have won two in a row to stay within striking distance of the final playoff berth in the AFC, but they will be taking a major step up in class against a bitter rival on Monday night. Coming off wins over a pair of last-place teams in Denver and Cleveland, the Bengals will host the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers.


Cincinnati, which entered the weekend one game behind sixth-place Baltimore and Buffalo in the chase for the final wild card, was dominated by the Steelers 29-14 in Pittsburgh in Week 7. "It's another game, but it's Pittsburgh, and they're leading our division," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "They beat us up there. They're coming here, and it's a big football game for us because we don't get any more do-overs." The Steelers, who own the tiebreaker with New England for the top record in the conference, extended their winning streak to six games by rallying for a 31-28 victory over Green Bay last week. Pittsburgh has won 10 consecutive prime-time games and has beaten the Bengals five times in a row while winning its last four visits to Cincinnati (playoffs included).

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

POWER RANKINGS: Steelers (-4) - Bengals (1.5) + home field (-3) = Bengals -0.5.

LINE HISTORY: The Steelers opened as high as 6.5-point road chalk and money coming in on the hometown Bengals brought that line down to +4.5. The total hit the betting board at 43 and briefly was bet up half-point before returning to the opening number, where it currently sits.

WEATHER REPORT: 57 degrees and overcast throughout the game - winds 14 - 15 MPH with 18% chance of fourth quarter precipitation

INJURY REPORT:


Steelers - LB James Harrison (Probable, Back), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (Probable, Hamstring), WR Antonio Brown (Questionable, Toe), S Mike Mitchell (Questionable, Ankle), LB Ryan Shazier (Questionable, Ankle), CB Cameron Sutton (Questionable, Hamstring), TE Vance McDonald (Out, Ankle).


Bengals - TE Tyler Kroft (Questionable, Wrist), OT Cedric Ogbuehi (Questionable, Shoulder), LB Vincent Rey (Questionable, Hamstring), S Shawn Williams (Questionable, Hamstring), LB Nick Vigil (Questionable, Ankle), QB Jeff Driskel (Questionable, Thumb).

ABOUT THE STEELERS (9-2 SU, 6-5 ATS, 3-8 O/U): Ben Roethlisberger, an Ohio native who is 23-4 in his home state, tossed four touchdowns for the second straight week and threw for a season-high 351 yards against Green Bay. Two of those scoring passes went to wideout Antonio Brown, who had 10 catches for 169 yards and leads the NFL in in receptions (80) and yards (1,195). Running back Le'Veon Bell, the league leader in rushing with 981 yards, rushed for 134 yards on 35 carries in the first meeting versus the Bengals and amassed 95 yards on the ground and 12 receptions a week ago. Pittsburgh's defense was gashed for three long touchdown passes by Green Bay, but it allows only 17.5 points per game and ranks No. 2 in sacks with 38.

ABOUT THE BENGALS (5-6 SU, 6-5 ATS, 5-6 O/U): Cincinnati has scored 30 points twice this season -- both times against the winless Browns -- as rookie running back Joe Mixon finally showed some sizzle by rushing for a season-high 114 yards and a TD and catching three passes for 51 yards. Andy Dalton has nine touchdowns and zero interceptions since the loss to the Steelers, when he was sacked four times, picked off twice and the Bengals managed a meager 19 total yards in the second half. Wideout A.J. Green has a team-high 809 receiving yards -- more than double any other Bengals player -- for an offense that ranks 32nd overall in total offense (274.3 yards) and 31st in rushing (75.6). Cincinnati is third in sacks (33) and gives up 19.5 points per game.

TRENDS:


* Steelers are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a ATS loss.


* Under is 10-1 in Steelers last 11 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.


* Under is 4-1 in Bengals last 5 Monday games.


* Favorite is 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings.


* Steelers are 16-3-2 ATS in their last 21 meetings in Cincinnati.

CONSENSUS: The public is siding with the road chalk Steelers at a rate of 67 percent and the Over is getting 65 percent of the totals action.

 

[CNOTES]

NFL opening line report: Focus is on the NFC in Week 14 with several key matchups
Patrick Everson


"We anticipate Saints money from the public, and this line could head south sooner than later."


Without question, the best Week 14 NFL games are in the NFC, as the playoff picture continues to evolve. Patrick Everson checks in on the opening lines for a handful of matchups, with insights from Scott Cooley, odds consultant for offshore sportsbook Bookmaker.eu.


New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons (-2)


New Orleans had a one-game hiccup, then got right back to its winning ways and now stands atop the NFC South. The Saints (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS) saw their eight-game win streak end in Week 12 at the Los Angeles Rams, but came home Sunday and beat Carolina 31-21 as a 5.5-point chalk.


Defending NFC champion Atlanta is making things tough for itself to even get back to the playoffs, let alone the Super Bowl. The Falcons (7-5 SU, 5-7 ATS) had a nice little three-game SU and ATS win streak, then had a dismal offensive showing and lost at home to Minnesota 14-9 as a 2-point favorite in Week 13.

“Our team was anywhere from a pick ‘em to -3 for this matchup,” Cooley said. “The deuce felt like a fair number. We can see where the bettors are leaning early and adjust from there. We anticipate Saints money from the public, and this line could head south sooner than later.”

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers (+1)


Minnesota just keeps on rolling behind a top-notch defense that ranks No. 2 in the league in scoring, allowing just 17 points per game. On Sunday, the Vikings (10-2 SU, 9-3 ATS) went to Atlanta as a 2-point underdog and won a defensive slog 14-9.


Carolina (8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS) won and cashed four straight heading into Sunday’s showdown with New Orleans. But the Panthers couldn’t keep it going, losing 31-21 catching 5.5 points.

“No matter how many wins, the Vikings don’t get any love from the general betting public,” Cooley said. “Sharps were on them again (against the Saints), and likely will be here, but the squares aren’t hopping aboard, so these spreads are kept somewhat at bay. Of course, you have to think Minnesota is going to stumble at some point.”


Philadelphia Eagles at Los Angeles Rams (no line)

Philadelphia has been the class of the NFC this season, but its impressive winning streak of nine games SU and eight games ATS finally ended Sunday night. The Eagles (10-2 SU, 9-3 ATS) went off as 3.5-point road chalk against Seattle and lost outright, 24-10.


Los Angeles is red-hot of late, going 6-1 SU and ATS in its last seven outings. The NFC West-leading Rams (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS) doubled up Arizona 32-16 giving 7.5 points on the road Sunday.


With Philly having played in the Sunday nighter, Bookmaker.eu won’t post the line on this game until Monday.


“Depending on how Sunday night plays out, we could make this anywhere from a pick to L.A. a small ‘dog,” Cooley said. “If the latter happens, the Rams feel like a very live ‘dog at home. Despite the two prolific offenses, I expect to see sharp players on the under.”

Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5)

Kansas City started the season 5-0 SU and ATS and was 6-2 SU and ATS through eight weeks. The Chiefs (6-6 SU and ATS) haven’t won since then, dumping four in a row to fall into a three-way logjam atop the AFC West with Oakland and San Diego. On Sunday, K.C. blew a 14-0 lead by the end of the first quarter and ultimately lost to the New York Jets 38-31 as a 4-point road fave.


Oakland has also played far below expectations this season, but has won three of its last four (1-2-1 ATS). In Week 13, the Raiders (6-6 SU, 4-7-1 ATS) held off the New York Giants 24-17 giving 10 points at home.


“Early action from the pros has been on Oakland, which prompted a 1-point move. They really don’t like this K.C. squad right now, and it’s obvious why,” Cooley said of sharp Raiders action forcing Bookmaker down to K.C. -3.5. “That said, you know this losing streak is going to end soon, and this is a season-defining type of game for the Chiefs. Expect their best effort here.”

 

[CNOTES]

Monday's Best Bet
December 4, 2017


Week 13 MNF Best Bet
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals


One of the nastiest rivalries in the NFL during the past few years takes center stage tonight as the Pittsburgh Steelers go into Cincinnati and look to sweep the Bengals away this year. A win by Pittsburgh would not only give the Steelers a 2-0 SU record against Cincy this year, but they'd keep pace with New England for 1st overall in the AFC, keep a three-game lead over Baltimore for the AFC North, with a return match against the Ravens coming up next week, and effectively end Cincinnati's slim playoff hopes.


That's quite a bit to play for if you're in the Steelers camp tonight, and given the recent history these two teams have, there shouldn't be any sort of “letdown” from either side tonight.

Bookmaker.eu Odds: Pittsburgh (-4); Total set at 43


Pittsburgh's 29-14 win over the Bengals in late October helped spark this run the Steelers have been on as that victory was two in a row for Pittsburgh at the time and they've since gone on to win four straight. That six-game winning streak (4-2 ATS) is on the line in Cincinnati tonight, and it's not going to be easy to extend.


The Bengals are playing with basically their season on the line at 5-6 SU, knowing that likely only one Wildcard spot is within reach for them this year, and any loss the rest of the way in essence puts the 2017 Cincinnati Bengals on life support. A desperate team can often be a dangerous one, and there is no question that Cincinnati's precarious position is part of the reason why we've already seen money on the side in this game come that way.


This game opened up with the Steelers in the -6.5 range, but ever since late last week this number has settled around the current -4. Even some -3.5's are starting to pop up across the board as bigger bettors look to cash in on a Bengals team that's got everything to play for tonight. A Bengals ATS win would be the reverse of what cashed in the first meeting, and with the perception/reality based notion of the Steelers not being anywhere near as good on the road as they are at home, this spread probably did end up opening up a little too high.


However, it's not the side I'm looking to back – especially now with most, if not all the value sucked out of it – as this total of 43 has held rather steady the entire week. VegasInsider.com shows about a 60/40 split in favor of the 'over' for tonight's total, as a slight majority believe the 43 points we saw in the first meeting will indeed get surpassed. After all, that game was 20-14 at halftime as the Bengals were shutout in the final two frames while Pittsburgh padded their lead with three FG's. A half of sub-10 points combined is becoming more and more rare in today's NFL, and with the Bengals scoring 20+ in four of their five games since that first Pittsburgh game, and the Steelers scoring 20+ in all four of their games during that span – including back-to-back weeks of 31+ - you can see why the 'over' has actually got some significant traction for most tonight.


Yet, this is the 5th and final division rematch game of Week 13 and if you've followed along all year, you'll know that I do prefer to flip results (either ATS or totals) in these return matchups. So far that line of thought in Week 13 hasn't done great as the previous four rematch games saw the same team win ATS in three contests, while the reversing the total results ended up going 2-2. But specifically regarding tonight's Steelers/Bengals game, I do believe that flip flopping this total is the better way to bet this contest. And those 43 points in the first meeting was more than enough for that game to sail 'over' the closing total of 40.


That means we should expect this game to be relatively lower scoring and be chalk-full of all the nastiness and physical play we've come to expect from these two teams when they share a field. The Steelers perception/reality argument about them on the road does have some truth to it when discussing their results as visitors this year, as they are a perfect 0-6 O/U away from home this year and have only scored more than 21 points once (Week 1). Offensively you can't help but wonder if those Steelers playmakers may have one eye on what lies ahead for them the next two weeks (Baltimore, New England), and with guys like WR Ju Ju Smith-Schuster and Antonio Brown dealing with some nagging injuries, those “footsteps” they might hear from the Bengals defenders could have Pittsburgh's attack performing at a sub-optimal level.


Taking things a step further, Pittsburgh has been a great 'under' bet on the road as they are 5-22 O/U in their last 27 away from home. This Steelers defense can clearly travel, and with a 6-20 O/U run going anywhere when playing a foe with a losing record, there may be a bit more reality to that talk about Pittsburgh's home/road splits than some Steelers fans may want to believe.


From Cincinnati's perspective, they know what's at stake for them in this game and probably know they aren't likely to beat the Steelers in a back-and-forth, shootout type game. The fact that Cincy's defense ranks 5th in the league against the pass helps them in that regard, and if this game turns into a slugfest, the Bengals should like their chances. With a 5-16 O/U run going after an ATS win, and a 4-12 O/U run going in divisional games, Cincinnati will look to their defense to step up big tonight.


So in a game where both defensive weaknesses are against the run, we've got high stakes for both sides regarding the playoff picture, and plenty of “sharp” money has already pushed the Bengals line down, there really is nowhere else to look but the under. The fact that oddsmakers have shown plenty of respect to the Bengals ATS action they've gotten so far suggests that this 'under' play may be quite correlated with that. Cincinnati just doesn't have the weapons to keep up with Pittsburgh if the Steelers offense is hitting on all cylinders, and based on how this line has moved in terms of the action it's received, that doesn't appear to be the type of game oddsmakers are expecting tonight.


Lot of running plays bleeds the clock down, and we all know about the level of physicality both teams bring to the table when they meet up. Touchdowns will be at a premium, and with drives hopefully stalling out in the redzone and FG tries following, this game tops out at 40 to 41 points.

Odds per - Bookmaker.eu


Best Bet: Under 43 points

 

[CNOTES]

Betting Recap - Week 13
December 4, 2017


Overall Notes


NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE WEEK 13 RESULTS


Wager Favorites-Underdogs
Straight Up 9-6
Against the Spread 7-8


Wager Home-Away
Straight Up 11-4
Against the Spread 9-6


Wager Totals (O/U)
Over-Under 7-8


The largest underdogs to win straight up
Jets (+4, ML +170) vs. Chiefs, 38-31
Seahawks (+4, ML +170) vs. Eagles, 24-10
49ers (+2.5, ML +125) at Bears, 15-14
Vikings (+2, ML +115) at Falcons, 14-9


The largest favorite to cover
Jaguars (-10) vs. Colts, 30-10
Patriots (-8) at Bills, 23-3
Rams (-7) at Cardinals, 32-16
Titans (-7) vs. Texans, 24-13

Feeling Minnesota


-- The Minnesota Vikings passed a major test on the road against the Atlanta Falcons, winning 14-9 in a defensive battle. The Purple People Eaters are on a roll, winning eight straight while covering seven in a row. Might we see the first-ever team to play a Super Bowl in their home stadium? We'll find out if the Vikings can do it in back-to-back road games with a trip to meet the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte in Week 14. The Panthers had their four-game cover streak halted with a 31-21 loss against the New Orleans Saints.


Jimmy Time


-- The San Francisco 49ers turned to QB Jimmy Garoppolo to start in Week 13 against the Chicago Bears, and his first start with the team was a success. Suddenly the Niners have won twice in the past three weeks, while the 'under' improved to 4-1 over their past five. The offense still needs work, as they have scored 15 or fewer points in five of the past six outings. But the Niners look like an NFL team again with Garoppolo at the helm. And, really, they haven't been that bad on the road this season, posting a respectable 4-2 ATS mark. They're back on the road next Sunday against the turnover-prone Houston Texans.
Total Recall


-- Vegas was expecting a shootout in Western New York in the New England-Buffalo (49) battle, but it never came into fruition. 'Over' bettors had a sinking feeling when the teams couldn't muster any touchdowns in the first half, and that bad feeling was compounded when QB Tyrod Taylor (knee) was carted off to the locker room. The Patriots picked up the pace in the third quarter with 14 points, but the teams combined for a scoreless fourth quarter and barely made it halfway to the over. The second-highest total was in the Minnesota-Atlanta (48.5) game, and that also was never threatened with 23 total points. It isn't often Vegas is way off, but these two battles weren't even close to the number.


-- The three lowest totals on the board from Sunday -- Indianapolis-Jacksonville (41), Denver-Miami (41) and San Francisco-Chicago (42) -- went 2-1 to the 'under'. The Broncos-Dolphins game featured two safeties, a rarity, to add to the scoring total. The Colts-Jaguars game just barely made it 'under', with a total of 40 points. Oddly enough, this was the first weekend all season where the NFL slate did not have at least one matchup with a total in the 30's.


-- The Chargers defense continues to impress, allowing just 10 points to the winless Browns. They have yielded just 13.9 PPG over their past seven games, which is a major reason they find themselves tied atop the AFC West despite an 0-4 SU/0-3-1 ATS start. The 'under' is an impressive 6-1 over the past seven for the Bolts, including 4-0 in their past four road games. They are home in Week 14 against the Redskins before they hit the road to play the Chiefs in Week 15 and Jets in Week 16.


-- The 'Over/under' finished 1-1 in the first two primetime games during Week 13, and the 'over' is 24-16 (60.0%) through the first 40 primetime games of the 2017 season with Monday's Pittsburgh Steelers-Cincinnati Bengals result still pending. Officially, the 'over' finished 27-24 (52.9%) through 51 games under the lights in 2016. In 2015, the over finished 20-28-1 (41.7%) in 49 primetime games. In 2014, the over went 33-17 (66.0%) in primetime games, and the over was 28-22 (56.0%) in 2013.


Injury Report


-- Bills QB Tyrod Taylor (knee) was knocked out of the loss against the Patriots due to a knee injury, but he reportedly told sources after the game that the injury wasn't as serious and he'll have further tests. Taylor sounds optimistic about a return sooner rather than later.


-- Lions QB Matthew Stafford (hand) suffered a hand injury late in the loss at Baltimore, and he was taken to the locker room with a towel wrapped around his hand. X-rays were negative.


-- Eagles TE Zach Ertz (concussion) left for the locker room due to the league's mandated NFL concussion protocol in the the third quarter and he did not return.


Looking Ahead


-- The Falcons (-2, 54) host the Saints in Thursday's game in a key NFC South battle. Atlanta swept the two high-scoring battles last season, averaging 41.5 PPG while allowing 32.0 PPG. The last time these teams met on a Thursday was back on Nov. 29, 2012, a 23-13 victory by the Falcons as Atlanta covered at the Georgia Dome in a game which easily hit the 'under'. Five of the past seven meetings in Atlanta have resulted in 'under' results, although this will be the first meeting at the brand, spanking new Mercedes-Benz Stadium. And hey, Atlanta fans...good news...Chick-Fil-A will be open for this game!


-- First place will be on the line when the Raiders and Chiefs do battle at Arrowhead. The Chiefs will be looking to avenge a heartbreaking 31-30 loss in the Black Hole back in Week 7. It was a rare Raiders win, as the Chiefs had won the five previous meetings while going 4-2 ATS. The Chiefs have won four straight home meetings against the Raiders, while going 3-1 ATS in the meetings. The 'under' is also an impressive 8-1 in the past nine meetings in Kansas City.


-- The Ravens and Steelers will lock horns at the confluence, and Pittsburgh looks for three straight wins in the series for the first time since sweeping the two regular-season matchups and the 2009 AFC Championship Game during the 2008-09 season. The 'under' has hit in four of the past five meetings in this series, and Baltimore enters the game 4-1-1 ATS over the past six meetings. The Steelers have won just three times in the past eight meetings at Heinz Field, including a playoff game in 2015. In fact, Pittsburgh is just 5-10 SU and 5-8-2 ATS over the past 15 meetings overall in the regular season and playoffs.

 

[CNOTES]

Saints bury books in Week 13
December 4, 2017


After nine consecutive wins and eight straight covers, the Eagles experienced only their second loss of the season Sunday night at Seattle which in turn helped the Las Vegas sports not lose too much, but still enough to hurt. The books were all on the ropes ready for the public knockout punch with another Eagles cover following a rough first 13 games of Sunday's week 13 action. Most books still lost, but a few were able to escape with a short profit.


"Every scenario for us in the Sunday night game is a loser with the Seahawks and Under being our best scenario," MGM Resorts sports book hub manager Jeff Stoneback said just prior to kickoff of the Seahawks eventual 24-10 win.


The Eagles had lots of live parlays waiting to cash after nearly every popular team covered the spread earlier.


"The Saints and Over were both bad for us, but not as bad as the Packers and Rams," said Station Casinos sports book director Jason McCormick. However, Station books were fortunate to escape with a small win thanks to Seattle, which paid bettors +180 on the money-line.


There was no escaping the Saints' 31-21 home win against the Panthers. Every book took a beating in this battle between the NFC South where the Saints moved from 4-point favorites to -6 by kickoff.


"The Saints were our worst game of the day," said Stoneback. "The Patriots weren't as bad just because it was a morning game. If was in the afternoon it may have been worse than the Saints."


The Saints game was in the afternoon and had results branched in from the nine 10 a.m. PT games waiting to cash, and they did cash a bunch. The most popular two-team parlay of the day was Patriots to the Saints. As for New England, the Westgate's 2-to-1 Super Bowl favorite, all they did on Sunday was win 23-3 at Buffalo (+8) for its eighth straight win and sixth straight cover.


These are the type of teams the public loves to hook up in teasers and parlays and if you look at how the sports books have been faring on a few teams since Week 4, you'll wonder why anyone would bet any other team. The Eagles (8-1 ATS), Rams (7-2 ATS), Vikings (7-2 ATS), Patriots (7-2 ATS) and Saints (6-3 ATS) have combined to go an incredible 35-10 ATS since Oct. 1. The Vikings' 14-9 win at Atlanta had equal action game because the Falcons are still popular, but the public finds other teams to insert.


"The favorites only went 7-6 ATS on the day, but bettors caught most of the favorites they we're betting the most collectively such as the Saints, Patriots, Rams and Jaguars," said Stoneback. "It was just a terrible afternoon. We we're a small loser in the nine morning games, but got whalloped in the afternoon with the Rams and Saints."


Jacksonville's No. 1 defense gained public favor this week as they were 10-point home favorites against the Colts and they'd win 30-10. The Rams (-7) took care of business at Arizona with a 32-16 win to maintain it's lead in the NFC West. They get a visit from a Philly squad this week coming off a loss and a couple long west coast flights. It'll be interesting see how they bounce back and if the Rams are really serious about getting that bye in the playoffs.


Bettors knew how to stay clear of betting against the Browns this week catching +13.5 at Los Angeles against the Chargers. Cleveland lost 19-10 to cover making them 3-9 ATS and pulling them out of the bettors' gutter. After Denver's awful 35-9 loss at Miami, the Broncos (2-9-1 ATS) are now the worst cover team in the NFL. Way to go Mr. Elway, Super Bowl to toilet bowl in record time.


Anyway, the inflated point spread on the Chargers kept bettors away from picking against the Browns again.


The Giants also did the amazing to get a backdoor field goal to cut the Raiders (-9.5) lead to 24-17 with under two minutes to go. It's one of the few games to go the books way because the public absolutely hates Geno Smith. There was one game the books also thought they had that turned on them in the last seconds.


"The Titans (-7) ended up being a loser for us thanks to that play," said Stoneback of Derrick Henry's 75-yard TD run with under a minute to go to go from a 17-13 ATS loser to a 24-13 ATS win. The Texans did the same thing the Giants did by kicking a field goal when down by 10 with hopes of recovering the onside kick. Henry rolled through a sweep and just kept plowing all the way down field. It was cheered heavily by the sports book crowds.


Week 13 finished up with favorites going 7-7 ATS with five underdogs winning outright and eight of them staying Under the total. Congrats on a great week people, Merry Christmas!

 

[CNOTES]

MONDAY, DECEMBER 4
GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS


PIT at CIN 08:30 PM


PIT -4.0


O 43.0

 

[CNOTES]

december nfl best bets & opinions ( based on 5 units )


date w-l-t % units record


12/04/2017 0-1-1 0.00% -5.50
12/03/2017 11-17-0 39.29% -38.50


best bets:......................ats.................... ..units.........................o/u....................units


12/03/2017..................0 - 1.....................-5.50............................0 - 0..................push
12/03/2017..................5 - 5.....................-2.50............................5 - 5..................-2.50

 

[CNOTES]

NFL opening line report: Focus is on the NFC in Week 14 with several key matchups
Patrick Everson


"We anticipate Saints money from the public, and this line could head south sooner than later."


Without question, the best Week 14 NFL games are in the NFC, as the playoff picture continues to evolve. Patrick Everson checks in on the opening lines for a handful of matchups, with insights from Scott Cooley, odds consultant for offshore sportsbook Bookmaker.eu.


New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons (-2)


New Orleans had a one-game hiccup, then got right back to its winning ways and now stands atop the NFC South. The Saints (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS) saw their eight-game win streak end in Week 12 at the Los Angeles Rams, but came home Sunday and beat Carolina 31-21 as a 5.5-point chalk.


Defending NFC champion Atlanta is making things tough for itself to even get back to the playoffs, let alone the Super Bowl. The Falcons (7-5 SU, 5-7 ATS) had a nice little three-game SU and ATS win streak, then had a dismal offensive showing and lost at home to Minnesota 14-9 as a 2-point favorite in Week 13.

“Our team was anywhere from a pick ‘em to -3 for this matchup,” Cooley said. “The deuce felt like a fair number. We can see where the bettors are leaning early and adjust from there. We anticipate Saints money from the public, and this line could head south sooner than later.”

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers (+1)


Minnesota just keeps on rolling behind a top-notch defense that ranks No. 2 in the league in scoring, allowing just 17 points per game. On Sunday, the Vikings (10-2 SU, 9-3 ATS) went to Atlanta as a 2-point underdog and won a defensive slog 14-9.


Carolina (8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS) won and cashed four straight heading into Sunday’s showdown with New Orleans. But the Panthers couldn’t keep it going, losing 31-21 catching 5.5 points.

“No matter how many wins, the Vikings don’t get any love from the general betting public,” Cooley said. “Sharps were on them again (against the Saints), and likely will be here, but the squares aren’t hopping aboard, so these spreads are kept somewhat at bay. Of course, you have to think Minnesota is going to stumble at some point.”


Philadelphia Eagles at Los Angeles Rams (no line)

Philadelphia has been the class of the NFC this season, but its impressive winning streak of nine games SU and eight games ATS finally ended Sunday night. The Eagles (10-2 SU, 9-3 ATS) went off as 3.5-point road chalk against Seattle and lost outright, 24-10.


Los Angeles is red-hot of late, going 6-1 SU and ATS in its last seven outings. The NFC West-leading Rams (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS) doubled up Arizona 32-16 giving 7.5 points on the road Sunday.


With Philly having played in the Sunday nighter, Bookmaker.eu won’t post the line on this game until Monday.


“Depending on how Sunday night plays out, we could make this anywhere from a pick to L.A. a small ‘dog,” Cooley said. “If the latter happens, the Rams feel like a very live ‘dog at home. Despite the two prolific offenses, I expect to see sharp players on the under.”

Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5)

Kansas City started the season 5-0 SU and ATS and was 6-2 SU and ATS through eight weeks. The Chiefs (6-6 SU and ATS) haven’t won since then, dumping four in a row to fall into a three-way logjam atop the AFC West with Oakland and San Diego. On Sunday, K.C. blew a 14-0 lead by the end of the first quarter and ultimately lost to the New York Jets 38-31 as a 4-point road fave.


Oakland has also played far below expectations this season, but has won three of its last four (1-2-1 ATS). In Week 13, the Raiders (6-6 SU, 4-7-1 ATS) held off the New York Giants 24-17 giving 10 points at home.


“Early action from the pros has been on Oakland, which prompted a 1-point move. They really don’t like this K.C. squad right now, and it’s obvious why,” Cooley said of sharp Raiders action forcing Bookmaker down to K.C. -3.5. “That said, you know this losing streak is going to end soon, and this is a season-defining type of game for the Chiefs. Expect their best effort here.”

 

[CNOTES]

NFL's biggest betting mismatches: Week 14
Monty Andrews


Oakland Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-4, 47.5)


Raiders' ragged secondary vs. Chiefs' elite ball security


The AFC West is officially the craziest division in the NFL, with three teams tied for the division lead as we enter the final four weeks of the regular season. This week's encounter between the streaking Raiders and the tumbling Chiefs will have a significant impact on how the final standings play out - and despite Kansas City having squandered what was a comfortable lead just a month ago, it has a sizeable edge in this one when it comes to retaining possession on offense.


The Oakland pass defense is a major reason why the Raiders are sitting at .500 through 13 weeks rather than leading the division by several games. By any measure, Oakland has struggled mightily to contain opposing signal callers, surrendering 20 pass touchdowns with just one interception; only one other team, the Atlanta Falcons (three), have fewer than five INTs. In addition, Oakland's 108.2 passer rating against is easily the worst in football.


Despite Kansas City's recent struggles, don't expect the Raiders secondary to suddenly look like world beaters against Alex Smith. The Chiefs have perennially been one of the lowest-turnover offenses in football with Smith at the helm, and 2017 is no exception - Kansas City has thrown just six interceptions, tied for the fourth-fewest in the league. Look for Smith to pick apart Oakland's pass defense, which should at least give the Chiefs a fighting chance of ending their four-game losing skid.


Green Bay Packers at Cleveland Browns (+3.5, 40.5)


Packers' red-zone proficiency vs. Browns' broken defense


No Aaron Rodgers? No problem - okay, several problems, but not as many as fans and bettors thought after the Packers lost their franchise quarterback to a collarbone injury in a Week 6 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Green Bay evened its record at 6-6 with an impressive 26-20 overtime win over Tampa Bay, and with Rodgers due back later this month, a postseason spot remains in play. The Packers will look to improve their chances this week by exploiting a major edge in red-zone play against winless Cleveland.


If there is one area where Green Bay has remained as potent as ever, it is in turning red-zone opportunities into six points. The Packers come into Week 14 with a success rate of nearly 65 percent inside the opponents' 20-yard line, the third-best rate in the league. That red-zone proficiency was on full display in last week's victory over the Buccaneers, when Aaron Jones ran in his only carry from the Tampa Bay 20-yard line to give the Packers a critical victory.


The Browns have been halfway decent at limiting opponent yardage (327.2, 10th in NFL), but are lagging behind in just about every other defensive metric. That includes red-zone points against, with Cleveland having allowed a touchdown on 68.6 percent of foes' trips inside their 20 - the second-worst rate in the NFL. The Browns' chances of earning win No. 1 will likely hinge on their ability to hold Green Bay to field goals - and if that's the case, bettors shouldn't hold their breath.


San Francisco 49ers at Houston Texans (-3, 43)


49ers' third-down troubles vs. Texans' punt-forcing prowess


A two-game losing skid and a date with a suddenly improving San Francisco team has the host Texans staring at a minuscule edge in the Vegas line this weekend. Yet, despite having lost four of its past five games to guarantee a non-winning season, Houston is still in good position heading into Week 14. Not only have the Texans prevailed in two of their previous three home games, but they have been a force on third downs - and the 49ers, for lack of a more eloquent turn of phrase, have not.


Perhaps the switch at quarterback from C.J. Beathard to Jimmy Garoppolo will mean great things for the 49ers on third down - after all, they went a stunning 10-for-18 in such situations in Garoppolo's first start in the red and gold. But one game is just that - and if you look at the season, San Francisco is still converting just 36.3 percent of third downs, good for 26th out of 32 teams. And getting to third down 18 times against the Texans probably won't turn out nearly as well for Garoppolo and the visitors.


Only five teams have been stingier on third down than the Texans, who have forced a punt or fourth-down try on 65.9 percent of opponent opportunities. Houston has been even tighter over the previous three games, allowing teams to extend drives or score on just 31.4 percent of third-down chances. And with opponents converting just 32.4 percent of their third-down opportunities at NRG Stadium, it could be a long afternoon for Garoppolo and the rest of the San Francisco offense.


Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers (-6, 44)


Ravens' ball-hawking skills vs. Big Ben's interception troubles


The Ravens still have a shot at the NFC North title - albeit a small one - as they prepare to visit Ben Roethlisberger and the division-leading Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night. Baltimore did its part to remain in the hunt with a 44-20 drubbing of the Detroit Lions - its third consecutive victory - and will be looking to atone for a 26-9 loss to the Steelers in their previous meeting Oct. 1. Even though Heinz Field is Big Ben's personal playground, the Ravens have the secondary to make life miserable for him.


The Ravens continue to lead the NFL in interceptions with 20 - four more than the runner-up Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars. And while it's fair to note that eight of those picks came in Baltimore's first two games - specifically, four each against the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns - the Ravens are still a top-six interception unit even if they hadn't recorded an INT in either of those contests. Opponents throw a pick on 5.14 percent of passing plays vs. Baltimore.


Roethlisberger escaped with just one interception in the Steelers' Week 4 triumph in Baltimore, but that was largely because his team ran the ball an unbelievable 42 times in the victory. Pittsburgh passers - yes, plural, thanks to Robert Golden's 44-yard completion in a Week 7 win over Cincinnati - come into this weekend with (12) interceptions, the seventh-most of any team. And with the Ravens looking to make up for their earlier loss, Pittsburgh might want to fire up 35 more carries for Le'Veon Bell.

 

[CNOTES]

NFL
Long Sheet


Week 14


Thursday, December 7


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NEW ORLEANS (9 - 3) at ATLANTA (7 - 5) - 12/7/2017, 8:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) when playing on a Thursday since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 18-9 ATS (+8.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) off a division game over the last 2 seasons.

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

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Sunday, December 10


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DETROIT (6 - 6) at TAMPA BAY (4 - 8) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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CHICAGO (3 - 9) at CINCINNATI (5 - 7) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 13-33 ATS (-23.3 Units) in road games in December games since 1992.
CHICAGO is 16-32 ATS (-19.2 Units) in road games in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
CHICAGO is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points over the last 2 seasons.

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

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INDIANAPOLIS (3 - 9) at BUFFALO (6 - 6) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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SEATTLE (8 - 4) at JACKSONVILLE (8 - 4) - 12/10/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 67-37 ATS (+26.3 Units) in December games since 1992.
JACKSONVILLE is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) against NFC West division opponents since 1992.
JACKSONVILLE is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.

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

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OAKLAND (6 - 6) at KANSAS CITY (6 - 6) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 33-59 ATS (-31.9 Units) in December games since 1992.
OAKLAND is 32-56 ATS (-29.6 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 3-2 against the spread versus OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
KANSAS CITY is 4-1 straight up against OAKLAND over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MINNESOTA (10 - 2) at CAROLINA (8 - 4) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 112-83 ATS (+20.7 Units) as an underdog since 1992.
CAROLINA is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
CAROLINA is 56-35 ATS (+17.5 Units) in December games since 1992.
CAROLINA is 52-33 ATS (+15.7 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
MINNESOTA is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 this season.
MINNESOTA is 32-13 ATS (+17.7 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 32-13 ATS (+17.7 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 23-11 ATS (+10.9 Units) against conference opponents over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 23-9 ATS (+13.1 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins this season.

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

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GREEN BAY (6 - 6) at CLEVELAND (0 - 12) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 186-131 ATS (+41.9 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 66-38 ATS (+24.2 Units) in December games since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 61-36 ATS (+21.4 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
CLEVELAND is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 6-20 ATS (-16.0 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points this season.
CLEVELAND is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
CLEVELAND is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses this season.

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

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SAN FRANCISCO (2 - 10) at HOUSTON (4 - 8) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 45-27 ATS (+15.3 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.

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

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WASHINGTON (5 - 7) at LA CHARGERS (6 - 6) - 12/10/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 43-26 ATS (+14.4 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.

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

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NY JETS (5 - 7) at DENVER (3 - 9) - 12/10/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY JETS are 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
DENVER is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all games this season.
DENVER is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in all lined games this season.
DENVER is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points this season.
DENVER is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) against conference opponents this season.
DENVER is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
DENVER is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses this season.
DENVER is 58-83 ATS (-33.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.

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

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TENNESSEE (8 - 4) at ARIZONA (5 - 7) - 12/10/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 48-27 ATS (+18.3 Units) in non-conference games since 1992.
ARIZONA is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 9-18 ATS (-10.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points this season.
ARIZONA is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

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PHILADELPHIA (10 - 2) at LA RAMS (9 - 3) - 12/10/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
LA RAMS is 183-228 ATS (-67.8 Units) in all games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 183-228 ATS (-67.8 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 131-180 ATS (-67.0 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
LA RAMS is 142-180 ATS (-56.0 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
LA RAMS is 20-36 ATS (-19.6 Units) against NFC East division opponents since 1992.
LA RAMS is 62-93 ATS (-40.3 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
LA RAMS is 67-96 ATS (-38.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.

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

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DALLAS (6 - 6) at NY GIANTS (2 - 10) - 12/10/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 37-60 ATS (-29.0 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY GIANTS is 4-1 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
NY GIANTS is 3-2 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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BALTIMORE (7 - 5) at PITTSBURGH (10 - 2) - 12/10/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 104-74 ATS (+22.6 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 51-30 ATS (+18.0 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 91-63 ATS (+21.7 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 3-1 against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
BALTIMORE is 3-2 straight up against PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Monday, December 11


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NEW ENGLAND (10 - 2) at MIAMI (5 - 7) - 12/11/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) as a favorite of 10 or more points over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 24-7 ATS (+16.3 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 24-7 ATS (+16.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 23-7 ATS (+15.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-5 ATS (+11.5 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-0 ATS (+9.0 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 62-39 ATS (+19.1 Units) in December games since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 65-44 ATS (+16.6 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-3 ATS (+13.7 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 60-36 ATS (+20.4 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
MIAMI is 70-98 ATS (-37.8 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ENGLAND is 4-1 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 4-1 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

 

[CNOTES]

NFL


Week 14


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


Thursday, December 7


NEW ORLEANS @ ATLANTA
New Orleans is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games
New Orleans is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Atlanta's last 17 games at home




Sunday, December 10


SAN FRANCISCO @ HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games
San Francisco is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games at home
Houston is 11-4 SU in its last 15 games at home


OAKLAND @ KANSAS CITY
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oakland's last 9 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
Oakland is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
Kansas City is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Oakland
Kansas City is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Oakland


INDIANAPOLIS @ BUFFALO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Indianapolis's last 6 games when playing on the road against Buffalo
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Indianapolis's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Buffalo's last 14 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Buffalo's last 6 games when playing at home against Indianapolis


MINNESOTA @ CAROLINA
Minnesota is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Minnesota is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Carolina is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games


CHICAGO @ CINCINNATI
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games
Chicago is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Cincinnati
Cincinnati is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 7 games


GREEN BAY @ CLEVELAND
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Green Bay's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Cleveland's last 11 games at home
Cleveland is 4-16-1 ATS in its last 21 games at home


DETROIT @ TAMPA BAY
Detroit is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 8 games at home
Tampa Bay is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games at home


DALLAS @ NY GIANTS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Dallas's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of Dallas's last 22 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of NY Giants's last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Giants's last 7 games


WASHINGTON @ LA CHARGERS
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Washington's last 11 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Washington's last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of LA Chargers's last 7 games
LA Chargers is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games


TENNESSEE @ ARIZONA
Tennessee is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee's last 6 games when playing Arizona
Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Tennessee
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Arizona's last 18 games at home


NY JETS @ DENVER
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Jets's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Jets's last 6 games when playing on the road against Denver
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Denver's last 6 games when playing at home against NY Jets
Denver is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing NY Jets


SEATTLE @ JACKSONVILLE
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Seattle's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games
Jacksonville is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Jacksonville's last 6 games


PHILADELPHIA @ LA RAMS
Philadelphia is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games
Philadelphia is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games
LA Rams is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
LA Rams is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games


BALTIMORE @ PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Baltimore's last 5 games on the road
Baltimore is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home




Monday, December 11


NEW ENGLAND @ MIAMI
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
New England is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Miami's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Miami's last 11 games at home