GAME RECAP
FURIOUS FOURTH: BETHEL-THOMPSON RALLIES ARGOS IN IMPROBABLE COMEBACK WIN
TORONTO — Trailing by 24 points in the third quarter at home on Thursday night, the Toronto Argonauts were well on their way to their sixth loss in seven games to kick off 2018. But an exhilarating second half comeback led by quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson, starting his first CFL game, may have saved the defending Grey Cup champions’ season.
After a tumultuous first half, Bethel-Thompson led the Argos back from a 38-14 deficit with the go-ahead touchdown with one second left the Argos to a 42-41 win over Ottawa to set a wild pace for Week 8 of the CFL season. The 28-year-old quarterback threw for four touchdowns and 302 yards, capping off the improbable victory with a fearless final-minute drive finished off by Armanti Edwards’ 23 yard catch.
Harris and the REDBLACKS got to work early in the first quarter with a 48-yard pass to Diontae Spencer on the REDBLACKS’ opening drive. That put Ottawa deep into Toronto territory, which led to Brad Sinopoli‘s 17-yard touchdown catch to open the scoring less than three minutes into the contest.
The Argos defence gave the home side their first spark of the game by sacking Harris deep in Ottawa’s end to give McLeod Bethel-Thompson prime field position midway through the first quarter. But Ottawa didn’t make it easy for the 28-year-old Argos pivot starting his first CFL game.
Derico Murray ended the drive on its first play with a crushing interception, but the Argos defence responded by forcing turnover of their own when Justin Tuggle snagged a Greg Ellingson fumble to send Harris off the field.
When the Argos offence couldn’t capitalize, their defence and special teams lifted the home team and their fans. The Argos pinned Harris and the offence deep in their own territory, then Martese. Jackson returned a punt 46 yards to set up a goal line series for the Argos.
Coming off the bench, backup quarterback James Franklin was able to ram the ball into the end zone with his feet to trim Ottawa’s lead to 8-7 near the end of the first quarter.
The REDBLACKS rebounded in the second quarter with help from a costly pass interference penalty by the Argos in their own end zone, allowing Dominique Davis to deliver a one-yard touchdown run to put Ottawa back in control.
With Harris and his offence finding their rhythm, the Argos defence was able to halt an effective drive midway through the second quarter, only to have Jackson fumble the ensuing REDBLACKS’ punt. The loose ball was gobbled up by Anthony Cioffi in the end zone to ring up Ottawa’s lead to 14 points.
Another Argos turnover allowed Ottawa to pad their lead before halftime. Running back James Wilder Jr. fumbled the ball on his own nine yard line, giving Harris prime position to put the game out of reach. He needed just one play to find Spencer for a 17-yard touchdown to put the Argos in a 21-point hole at the break.
Bethel-Thompson led a resurgent Argos offence into the second half. In eight plays, he led the Argos to an eight-play, 60-yard drive after kickoff ending with a five-yard, S.J. Green touchdown catch to narrow the deficit to 28-14.
Unfortunately for the Argos, the momentum paused. Harris led the REDBLACKS to a field goal, then Spencer returned a punt 87 yards to the end zone give Ottawa a 24-point lead.
Needing a jolt, Green got Toronto back on track with his hands and feet. He caught three straight receptions for 16, 48 and 14 yards from Bethel-Thompson to set up another Franklin rushing touchdown, cutting the deficit to 38-20. Followed up by a Abdul Kanneh interception on Harris, the Argos forced themselves back in the game for the final quarter.
Early in the fourth quarter, Bethel-Thompson finished a superb drive with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Green to bring the Argos within 12 points.
Ottawa wideout R.J. Harris took back some momentum with a 40-yard catch on the ensuing drive, leading to a REDBLACKS field goal which the Argos matched five minutes later with six minutes remaining.
Following a two-and-out for the REDBLACKS, the Argos’ comeback bid launched into full throttle. Jackson returned the ensuing punt 70 yards, then Bethel-Thompson and Wilder Jr. connected on a 20 yard catch and run into the end zone to cut the lead to 41-36 at the three minute warning.
After the Argos defence forced a punt, the Argos proceeded down the field on a spirited drive in the final minute, including a conversion on third-down at the REDBLACKS’ 35 yard line. The offence inched forward, lifted by a suddenly boisterous crowd at BMO Field. Finally, in a play that changed the Argos season, Bethel-Thompson scrambled out of the pocket and found Edwards for the game winning touchdown with one second remaining on the clock to steal the improbable win.
The REDBLACKS are set to face Johnny Manziel and the Montreal Alouettes in Week 9, while the Argos get a two-week break to rest and prepare for the B.C. Lions, who will visit BMO Field on Aug. 18.
FURIOUS FOURTH: BETHEL-THOMPSON RALLIES ARGOS IN IMPROBABLE COMEBACK WIN
TORONTO — Trailing by 24 points in the third quarter at home on Thursday night, the Toronto Argonauts were well on their way to their sixth loss in seven games to kick off 2018. But an exhilarating second half comeback led by quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson, starting his first CFL game, may have saved the defending Grey Cup champions’ season.
After a tumultuous first half, Bethel-Thompson led the Argos back from a 38-14 deficit with the go-ahead touchdown with one second left the Argos to a 42-41 win over Ottawa to set a wild pace for Week 8 of the CFL season. The 28-year-old quarterback threw for four touchdowns and 302 yards, capping off the improbable victory with a fearless final-minute drive finished off by Armanti Edwards’ 23 yard catch.
Harris and the REDBLACKS got to work early in the first quarter with a 48-yard pass to Diontae Spencer on the REDBLACKS’ opening drive. That put Ottawa deep into Toronto territory, which led to Brad Sinopoli‘s 17-yard touchdown catch to open the scoring less than three minutes into the contest.
The Argos defence gave the home side their first spark of the game by sacking Harris deep in Ottawa’s end to give McLeod Bethel-Thompson prime field position midway through the first quarter. But Ottawa didn’t make it easy for the 28-year-old Argos pivot starting his first CFL game.
Derico Murray ended the drive on its first play with a crushing interception, but the Argos defence responded by forcing turnover of their own when Justin Tuggle snagged a Greg Ellingson fumble to send Harris off the field.
When the Argos offence couldn’t capitalize, their defence and special teams lifted the home team and their fans. The Argos pinned Harris and the offence deep in their own territory, then Martese. Jackson returned a punt 46 yards to set up a goal line series for the Argos.
Coming off the bench, backup quarterback James Franklin was able to ram the ball into the end zone with his feet to trim Ottawa’s lead to 8-7 near the end of the first quarter.
The REDBLACKS rebounded in the second quarter with help from a costly pass interference penalty by the Argos in their own end zone, allowing Dominique Davis to deliver a one-yard touchdown run to put Ottawa back in control.
With Harris and his offence finding their rhythm, the Argos defence was able to halt an effective drive midway through the second quarter, only to have Jackson fumble the ensuing REDBLACKS’ punt. The loose ball was gobbled up by Anthony Cioffi in the end zone to ring up Ottawa’s lead to 14 points.
Another Argos turnover allowed Ottawa to pad their lead before halftime. Running back James Wilder Jr. fumbled the ball on his own nine yard line, giving Harris prime position to put the game out of reach. He needed just one play to find Spencer for a 17-yard touchdown to put the Argos in a 21-point hole at the break.
Bethel-Thompson led a resurgent Argos offence into the second half. In eight plays, he led the Argos to an eight-play, 60-yard drive after kickoff ending with a five-yard, S.J. Green touchdown catch to narrow the deficit to 28-14.
Unfortunately for the Argos, the momentum paused. Harris led the REDBLACKS to a field goal, then Spencer returned a punt 87 yards to the end zone give Ottawa a 24-point lead.
Needing a jolt, Green got Toronto back on track with his hands and feet. He caught three straight receptions for 16, 48 and 14 yards from Bethel-Thompson to set up another Franklin rushing touchdown, cutting the deficit to 38-20. Followed up by a Abdul Kanneh interception on Harris, the Argos forced themselves back in the game for the final quarter.
Early in the fourth quarter, Bethel-Thompson finished a superb drive with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Green to bring the Argos within 12 points.
Ottawa wideout R.J. Harris took back some momentum with a 40-yard catch on the ensuing drive, leading to a REDBLACKS field goal which the Argos matched five minutes later with six minutes remaining.
Following a two-and-out for the REDBLACKS, the Argos’ comeback bid launched into full throttle. Jackson returned the ensuing punt 70 yards, then Bethel-Thompson and Wilder Jr. connected on a 20 yard catch and run into the end zone to cut the lead to 41-36 at the three minute warning.
After the Argos defence forced a punt, the Argos proceeded down the field on a spirited drive in the final minute, including a conversion on third-down at the REDBLACKS’ 35 yard line. The offence inched forward, lifted by a suddenly boisterous crowd at BMO Field. Finally, in a play that changed the Argos season, Bethel-Thompson scrambled out of the pocket and found Edwards for the game winning touchdown with one second remaining on the clock to steal the improbable win.
The REDBLACKS are set to face Johnny Manziel and the Montreal Alouettes in Week 9, while the Argos get a two-week break to rest and prepare for the B.C. Lions, who will visit BMO Field on Aug. 18.
GAME TRACKER
REILLY, WALKER PUSH ESKS PAST RIDERS
EDMONTON — Mike Reilly and the Edmonton Eskimos closed out an exciting Thursday night double header with a 26-19 victory against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Esks grabbed their fifth win of the season in a back-and-forth game that saw four lead changes in the second half.
Reilly came through once again for Edmonton to lock up his 50th career win. The league’s leading passer threw for 257 yards and a touchdown and added the game-winning rushing touchdown in the final minutes.
Derel Walker showcased his phenomenal playmaking ability all night for the Esks, hauling in six catches for 154 yards and a touchdown.
Zach Collaros looked solid in his return to action after being sidelined since Week 2, finishing 22 of 34 for 261 yards and a touchdown.
The Riders’ defence did their part with a fumble recovery and four sacks, including Charleston Hughes‘ ninth of the season.
The Esks’ offence began firing on all cylinders right away in this one, with Reilly leading a six-play, 85-yard touchdown drive on the team’s second possession. Reilly connected with Walker for a 61-yard catch and run that put the offence in position to score. C.J. Gable capped off the drive with a physical three-yard touchdown run to give Edmonton the early lead. Gable finished the night with 81 yards on 14 carries.
The Riders answered with a scoring drive of their own to close out the opening quarter. Collaros injected life into Saskatchewan’s offence and found receiver Jordan Williams-Lambert on back-to-back plays for gains of 29 and 13 yards. Marcus Thigpen took the ball into the end zone from one yard out to even things up.
Edmonton retook the lead on the following drive with a 49-yard field goal from Sean Whyte.
Both defensive units looked strong in the opening half, keeping the big plays few and far between while also generating heavy pressure.
The Riders put together a big drive to start the second half, and Collaros continued to show how much of a difference he can make. Collaros hit Duron Carter for a 41-yard touchdown to put Saskatchewan ahead, utilizing perfect touch to place the ball where only Carter could get it.
But it was a short-lived lead, as Reilly answered the Riders’ passing touchdown with one of his own. The veteran passer found Walker in double coverage for a 36-yard touchdown to retake the lead, his fifth score of the season. Walker consistently created separation to make big-play receptions against the Riders’ secondary.
Riders running back Tre Mason showed off his own playmaking ability on the next drive, using his speed and vision to break free for a 42-yard run. Esks’ defensive back Nicholas Taylor came through with the touchdown-saving tackle. Saskatchewan appeared to score a few plays later with a one-yard quarterback sneak from David Watford, but the quarterback was ruled down after the play was reviewed, resulting in a turnover on downs.
The Riders added two points when the Esks conceded a safety after being pinned back in their own territory, making it 17-16 for Edmonton heading into the fourth quarter.
Duke Williams got the Edmonton crowd excited when he reeled in a Reilly pass and took it 98 yards to the end zone, but it was ruled that the receiver was touched down with just a 17-yard catch. The Esks’ drive ended abruptly when defensive back Jovon Johnson stripped the ball from Nate Behar. Defensive lineman Tobi Antigha recovered the fumble to set up a 33-yard field goal from kicker Brett Lauther, putting the Riders up 19-17.
But Reilly and the Esks found a way to move the ball down the field once again, and receiver Kenny Stafford came up with a huge 46-yard catch by going up high over the opposing defender. Reilly finished the drive off by keeping the ball himself for a one-yard quarterback sneak into the end zone.
Riders defensive back Crezdon Butler broke up the ensuing two-point conversion attempt, making it 23-19 for Edmonton with just over two minutes to play.
Whyte added a 46-yard field goal in the final minute to seal the 26-19 victory for Edmonton.
The Eskimos will travel to face the BC Lions in Week 9 action next Thursday, while the Roughriders will be off until they host the Calgary Stampeders in Week 10.
REILLY, WALKER PUSH ESKS PAST RIDERS
EDMONTON — Mike Reilly and the Edmonton Eskimos closed out an exciting Thursday night double header with a 26-19 victory against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Esks grabbed their fifth win of the season in a back-and-forth game that saw four lead changes in the second half.
Reilly came through once again for Edmonton to lock up his 50th career win. The league’s leading passer threw for 257 yards and a touchdown and added the game-winning rushing touchdown in the final minutes.
Derel Walker showcased his phenomenal playmaking ability all night for the Esks, hauling in six catches for 154 yards and a touchdown.
Zach Collaros looked solid in his return to action after being sidelined since Week 2, finishing 22 of 34 for 261 yards and a touchdown.
The Riders’ defence did their part with a fumble recovery and four sacks, including Charleston Hughes‘ ninth of the season.
The Esks’ offence began firing on all cylinders right away in this one, with Reilly leading a six-play, 85-yard touchdown drive on the team’s second possession. Reilly connected with Walker for a 61-yard catch and run that put the offence in position to score. C.J. Gable capped off the drive with a physical three-yard touchdown run to give Edmonton the early lead. Gable finished the night with 81 yards on 14 carries.
The Riders answered with a scoring drive of their own to close out the opening quarter. Collaros injected life into Saskatchewan’s offence and found receiver Jordan Williams-Lambert on back-to-back plays for gains of 29 and 13 yards. Marcus Thigpen took the ball into the end zone from one yard out to even things up.
Edmonton retook the lead on the following drive with a 49-yard field goal from Sean Whyte.
Both defensive units looked strong in the opening half, keeping the big plays few and far between while also generating heavy pressure.
The Riders put together a big drive to start the second half, and Collaros continued to show how much of a difference he can make. Collaros hit Duron Carter for a 41-yard touchdown to put Saskatchewan ahead, utilizing perfect touch to place the ball where only Carter could get it.
But it was a short-lived lead, as Reilly answered the Riders’ passing touchdown with one of his own. The veteran passer found Walker in double coverage for a 36-yard touchdown to retake the lead, his fifth score of the season. Walker consistently created separation to make big-play receptions against the Riders’ secondary.
Riders running back Tre Mason showed off his own playmaking ability on the next drive, using his speed and vision to break free for a 42-yard run. Esks’ defensive back Nicholas Taylor came through with the touchdown-saving tackle. Saskatchewan appeared to score a few plays later with a one-yard quarterback sneak from David Watford, but the quarterback was ruled down after the play was reviewed, resulting in a turnover on downs.
The Riders added two points when the Esks conceded a safety after being pinned back in their own territory, making it 17-16 for Edmonton heading into the fourth quarter.
Duke Williams got the Edmonton crowd excited when he reeled in a Reilly pass and took it 98 yards to the end zone, but it was ruled that the receiver was touched down with just a 17-yard catch. The Esks’ drive ended abruptly when defensive back Jovon Johnson stripped the ball from Nate Behar. Defensive lineman Tobi Antigha recovered the fumble to set up a 33-yard field goal from kicker Brett Lauther, putting the Riders up 19-17.
But Reilly and the Esks found a way to move the ball down the field once again, and receiver Kenny Stafford came up with a huge 46-yard catch by going up high over the opposing defender. Reilly finished the drive off by keeping the ball himself for a one-yard quarterback sneak into the end zone.
Riders defensive back Crezdon Butler broke up the ensuing two-point conversion attempt, making it 23-19 for Edmonton with just over two minutes to play.
Whyte added a 46-yard field goal in the final minute to seal the 26-19 victory for Edmonton.
The Eskimos will travel to face the BC Lions in Week 9 action next Thursday, while the Roughriders will be off until they host the Calgary Stampeders in Week 10.
Friday, Aug. 3
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2-4 SU, 2-4 ATS) at Montreal Alouettes (1-5 SU, 2-4 ATS)
Point-spread: Hamilton -6
Total: 54
Game Overview
It looks like the Tiger-Cats have been a bit overrated by the oddsmakers with a trio of SU losses closing as favorites in all three contests. They will have to cover a big number on the road this week to try and turn things around. Jeremiah Masoli continues to throw the ball well with a 67.0 percent completion rate on his 215 passing attempts. However, his 1,914 passing yards as the second-highest total in the CFL have only resulted in five touchdown passes against six interceptions.
There is a good chance that Johnny Manziel does see some playing time in this game against his former team. That may be a motivating factor for him, but he is still stuck on an offense that has scored a grand total of 92 points in six games. On the other side of the ball, the Alouettes have allowed a combined total of 192 points in that same time span. Tyrell Sutton has been the team’s top rusher with 262 yards and one score on 58 carries.
Betting Trends
-- Hamilton is 5-1 SU in its last six games against Montreal with a 4-2 edge ATS. The total has stayed UNDER in six of the last eight games between these two East Division rivals.
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Friday, August 3
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HAMILTON (2 - 4) at MONTREAL (1 - 5) - 8/3/2018, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games when playing on a Friday over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses since 1996.
MONTREAL is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
HAMILTON is 3-2 against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
HAMILTON is 4-1 straight up against MONTREAL 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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Friday, August 3
Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Hamilton is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Hamilton is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Hamilton's last 7 games
Hamilton is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Hamilton is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games on the road
Hamilton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Montreal
Hamilton is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Hamilton's last 8 games when playing Montreal
Hamilton is 17-8 ATS in its last 25 games when playing on the road against Montreal
Hamilton is 4-18 SU in its last 22 games when playing on the road against Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Hamilton's last 11 games when playing on the road against Montreal
Montreal Alouettes
Montreal is 2-15 ATS in its last 17 games
Montreal is 1-16 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Montreal's last 8 games
Montreal is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Montreal is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Montreal's last 5 games at home
Montreal is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Hamilton
Montreal is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Hamilton
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Montreal's last 8 games when playing Hamilton
Montreal is 8-17 ATS in its last 25 games when playing at home against Hamilton
Montreal is 18-4 SU in its last 22 games when playing at home against Hamilton
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Montreal's last 11 games when playing at home against Hamilton
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Friday, August 3
Hamilton @ Montreal
Game 375-376
August 3, 2018 @ 7:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
110.797
Montreal
98.873
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 12
52
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 6 1/2
49
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-6 1/2); Over
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Hamilton (2-4) (-6.5, 50) @ Montreal (1-5)— Manziel gets first CFL start for Montreal vs Ti-Cat team that traded him to Alouettes 11 days ago. Hamilton won five of last six series games, taking last three visits here, by 27-24-12 points. Under is 6-2 in last eight seres games. Ti-Cats lost their last three games, scoring 13-20-15 points; they scored 38-31 in their two wins. Three of their last four games stayed under. Montreal lost its last three games; all five of its losses are by 10+ points, part of why they’re changing QB’s. Under is 3-1 in their last four games.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2-4 SU, 2-4 ATS) at Montreal Alouettes (1-5 SU, 2-4 ATS)
Point-spread: Hamilton -6
Total: 54
Game Overview
It looks like the Tiger-Cats have been a bit overrated by the oddsmakers with a trio of SU losses closing as favorites in all three contests. They will have to cover a big number on the road this week to try and turn things around. Jeremiah Masoli continues to throw the ball well with a 67.0 percent completion rate on his 215 passing attempts. However, his 1,914 passing yards as the second-highest total in the CFL have only resulted in five touchdown passes against six interceptions.
There is a good chance that Johnny Manziel does see some playing time in this game against his former team. That may be a motivating factor for him, but he is still stuck on an offense that has scored a grand total of 92 points in six games. On the other side of the ball, the Alouettes have allowed a combined total of 192 points in that same time span. Tyrell Sutton has been the team’s top rusher with 262 yards and one score on 58 carries.
Betting Trends
-- Hamilton is 5-1 SU in its last six games against Montreal with a 4-2 edge ATS. The total has stayed UNDER in six of the last eight games between these two East Division rivals.
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Friday, August 3
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HAMILTON (2 - 4) at MONTREAL (1 - 5) - 8/3/2018, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in road games when playing on a Friday over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 35-20 ATS (+13.0 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses since 1996.
MONTREAL is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-18 ATS (-13.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 5-15 ATS (-11.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-8 ATS (-7.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
HAMILTON is 3-2 against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
HAMILTON is 4-1 straight up against MONTREAL 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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Friday, August 3
Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Hamilton is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Hamilton is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Hamilton's last 7 games
Hamilton is 7-2 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Hamilton is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games on the road
Hamilton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Montreal
Hamilton is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Hamilton's last 8 games when playing Montreal
Hamilton is 17-8 ATS in its last 25 games when playing on the road against Montreal
Hamilton is 4-18 SU in its last 22 games when playing on the road against Montreal
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Hamilton's last 11 games when playing on the road against Montreal
Montreal Alouettes
Montreal is 2-15 ATS in its last 17 games
Montreal is 1-16 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Montreal's last 8 games
Montreal is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Montreal is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Montreal's last 5 games at home
Montreal is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Hamilton
Montreal is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Hamilton
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Montreal's last 8 games when playing Hamilton
Montreal is 8-17 ATS in its last 25 games when playing at home against Hamilton
Montreal is 18-4 SU in its last 22 games when playing at home against Hamilton
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Montreal's last 11 games when playing at home against Hamilton
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Friday, August 3
Hamilton @ Montreal
Game 375-376
August 3, 2018 @ 7:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
110.797
Montreal
98.873
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 12
52
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 6 1/2
49
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-6 1/2); Over
************************
Hamilton (2-4) (-6.5, 50) @ Montreal (1-5)— Manziel gets first CFL start for Montreal vs Ti-Cat team that traded him to Alouettes 11 days ago. Hamilton won five of last six series games, taking last three visits here, by 27-24-12 points. Under is 6-2 in last eight seres games. Ti-Cats lost their last three games, scoring 13-20-15 points; they scored 38-31 in their two wins. Three of their last four games stayed under. Montreal lost its last three games; all five of its losses are by 10+ points, part of why they’re changing QB’s. Under is 3-1 in their last four games.
NEWS
‘CATS CLAW MANZIEL, ALS IN DOMINANT 50-11 PERFORMANCE
MONTREAL — Johnny Football made his CFL debut, but it was his old team that stole the show, prevailing 50-11 on Friday night at Percival Molson Stadium in Montreal.
Early on, Ticats quarterback Jeremiah Masoli was unphased by a noticeably-loud Percival Molson Stadium, finding slotback Jalen Saunders behind the Als’ secondary for a 48-yard gain on the game’s second play. Four plays later, Brandon Banks caught a 17-yard touchdown pass to cap an efficient 79-yard drive that took under three minutes to complete.
Manziel’s first CFL play was a handoff to BJ Cunningham, and a loss of five yards. Moments later, he was intercepted by linebacker Larry Dean. Running back Alex Green capped the drive with a one-yard run. Soon after, Hamilton’s Curtis Newton blocked a Boris Bede punt and Sean Thomas Erlington recovered and ran it in 10 yards for the score. By the end of the quarter, Hamilton was up by 28.
After the slow start, Manziel showed signs of rhythm. Near the end of the opening quarter, he completed consecutive passes at midfield and marched the Als downfield. Thanks to those efforts, Boris Bede got Montreal on the board in the first play of the second quarter with a 30-yard field goal. Hamilton responded a few minutes later with Green’s second touchdown of the half.
Hamilton’s defence continued to give Montreal’s new starting quarterback fits. By the end of his first career CFL half, Manziel had thrown four interceptions, including two to defensive back Jumal Rolle. If there was a silver lining, it was Manziel’s movement in the pocket and ability to avoid the aggressive Hamilton pass rush.
Ticats kicker Lirim Hajrullahu hit a 42-yard field goal to give Hamilton a commanding 35-point lead heading into the third quarter. He then started the scoring in the second half, nailing a 48-yard field goal five minutes into the third quarter.
Manziel looked more comfortable to start the third quarter, completing passes to Ernest Jackson and Eugene Lewis. Despite that, he was unable to get the Als downfield and gain significant yardage.
On the other side of the ball, Jeremiah Masoli continued his efficient evening. He found receivers Chris Williams and Terrence Toliver for decent gains at midfield to end the third quarter. He then spotted Jalen Saunders on a crisp back-shoulder throw for 21 yards. Masoli then joined in on the scoring action, running the ball in six yards for the touchdown. It capped a nine-play, 97-yard drive that took just under six minutes to execute.
The beginning of the fourth quarter marked the end of the night for Johnny Manziel, who was replaced by Vernon Adams, Jr. with the Als trailing by 44. His stat line in his first career CFL start? 11 completions, 104 passing yards, and four interceptions.
Adams did use his mobility on his second drive of the game. He was able to avoid pressure and scramble for gains of eight and 13 yards. A pass interference penalty put the ball in the red zone, but Hamilton’s smothering defence prevented Montreal from getting any points.
Montreal did score with under three minutes left in the game on an Adams run from the one-yard line. They then converted the two-point convert to give the Als 11 on the evening. Hajrullahu hit a field goal at the end of the fourth quarter to put the Ticats at 50.
Manziel and the Alouettes’ next test is on Aug. 11 when they travel to Ottawa to take on the Redblacks. The Ticats will face the Blue Bombers in Winnipeg on Friday.
‘CATS CLAW MANZIEL, ALS IN DOMINANT 50-11 PERFORMANCE
MONTREAL — Johnny Football made his CFL debut, but it was his old team that stole the show, prevailing 50-11 on Friday night at Percival Molson Stadium in Montreal.
Early on, Ticats quarterback Jeremiah Masoli was unphased by a noticeably-loud Percival Molson Stadium, finding slotback Jalen Saunders behind the Als’ secondary for a 48-yard gain on the game’s second play. Four plays later, Brandon Banks caught a 17-yard touchdown pass to cap an efficient 79-yard drive that took under three minutes to complete.
Manziel’s first CFL play was a handoff to BJ Cunningham, and a loss of five yards. Moments later, he was intercepted by linebacker Larry Dean. Running back Alex Green capped the drive with a one-yard run. Soon after, Hamilton’s Curtis Newton blocked a Boris Bede punt and Sean Thomas Erlington recovered and ran it in 10 yards for the score. By the end of the quarter, Hamilton was up by 28.
After the slow start, Manziel showed signs of rhythm. Near the end of the opening quarter, he completed consecutive passes at midfield and marched the Als downfield. Thanks to those efforts, Boris Bede got Montreal on the board in the first play of the second quarter with a 30-yard field goal. Hamilton responded a few minutes later with Green’s second touchdown of the half.
Hamilton’s defence continued to give Montreal’s new starting quarterback fits. By the end of his first career CFL half, Manziel had thrown four interceptions, including two to defensive back Jumal Rolle. If there was a silver lining, it was Manziel’s movement in the pocket and ability to avoid the aggressive Hamilton pass rush.
Ticats kicker Lirim Hajrullahu hit a 42-yard field goal to give Hamilton a commanding 35-point lead heading into the third quarter. He then started the scoring in the second half, nailing a 48-yard field goal five minutes into the third quarter.
Manziel looked more comfortable to start the third quarter, completing passes to Ernest Jackson and Eugene Lewis. Despite that, he was unable to get the Als downfield and gain significant yardage.
On the other side of the ball, Jeremiah Masoli continued his efficient evening. He found receivers Chris Williams and Terrence Toliver for decent gains at midfield to end the third quarter. He then spotted Jalen Saunders on a crisp back-shoulder throw for 21 yards. Masoli then joined in on the scoring action, running the ball in six yards for the touchdown. It capped a nine-play, 97-yard drive that took just under six minutes to execute.
The beginning of the fourth quarter marked the end of the night for Johnny Manziel, who was replaced by Vernon Adams, Jr. with the Als trailing by 44. His stat line in his first career CFL start? 11 completions, 104 passing yards, and four interceptions.
Adams did use his mobility on his second drive of the game. He was able to avoid pressure and scramble for gains of eight and 13 yards. A pass interference penalty put the ball in the red zone, but Hamilton’s smothering defence prevented Montreal from getting any points.
Montreal did score with under three minutes left in the game on an Adams run from the one-yard line. They then converted the two-point convert to give the Als 11 on the evening. Hajrullahu hit a field goal at the end of the fourth quarter to put the Ticats at 50.
Manziel and the Alouettes’ next test is on Aug. 11 when they travel to Ottawa to take on the Redblacks. The Ticats will face the Blue Bombers in Winnipeg on Friday.
Saturday’s 6-pack
Six active QB’s with the most NFL starts:
251- Tom Brady
248- Drew Brees
214- Eli Manning
198- Ben Roethlisberger
192- Philip Rivers
158- Matt Ryan
Tweet of the Day
“I wouldn’t wish that upon anybody. It happened. It was just one of those things that you never expect to happen to you, but it happened, and I’m just happy to be out here playing football.”
Chargers’ rookie Derwin James, robbed at gunpoint in LA back in June
Saturday’s quiz
Of the six active QB’s with the most NFL starts (see list above), who is the only one who has played for more than one team?
Friday’s quiz
Jim McMahon was the Chicago Bears’ QB when they won their only Super Bowl title.
Thursday’s quiz
Outfielder Dwight Evans played 20 years in the major leagues, 19 of them for the Red Sox, the last one in Baltimore.
***************************
Saturday’s List of 13: Clearing out a cluttered mind…..
13) Milwaukee Brewers are 26-9 in the second game of a series, 13-5 on road, 13-4 at home; 15-6 if they won the series opener, 11-3 if they lost (7-0 at home).
12) Bronx Bombers are 12-2 in second game of a series if they lost the opener.
11) Seattle Mariners are 10-4 in second game of a series if they lost the series opener, 8-13 if they won the opener.
10) Tampa Bay Rays are 14-5 in second game of a series if they won the opener, 4-12 if they lost the opener.
9) Toronto Blue Jays are 4-11 in second game of a series if they lost the opener.
8) There are three NFL teams this season where their backup QB’s have never started an NFL game: Carolina, Dallas and the Giants. Starters better stay healthy!!!!
7) Took me about 35 seconds Thursday night to remember when I hear Cris Collinsworth’s voice, to hit the mute button. He just irritates me, and I’m not 100% sure why.
6) Umpiring crew at Wrigley Field this weekend for Padres-Cubs series: Fieldin Culbreth, CB Bucknor, Angel Hernandez and a rookie replacement. This would be the opposite of an All-Star crew, no offense to the rookie umpire.
5) If you look at the backup QB’s, Tampa Bay’s Ryan Fitzpatrick has 119 career starts, most of any backup, and he’ll start in Weeks 1-3, with James Winston suspended. Matt Cassel has 81 career starts, 2nd-most of all NFL backups.
Nike declined to extend Winston’s endorsement deal this season.
4) There are six NFL teams with a new starting QB this season.
You look at Buffalo’s three QB’s, and they have started a combined five NFL games.
3) You see all these legal experts and writers on MSNBC, FOX News and CNN; how much are they paid for each appearance? Some of them are on almost every day.
2) Mariners’ 2B Dee Gordon turned his ankle Thursday night when he stepped on 2nd base as he tried to turn a double play.
I think fairly soon the major leagues will go to flat bases, to lessen the number of injuries from guys stepping on bases that may be slick, from rain during the game.
1) Weird Stat of the Day: Rangers’ 2B Rougned Odor is the 4th player in MLB history to walk five times and hit a home run in the same game. The other three?
Hank Aaron, Mark McGwire, Edgar Martinez.
Odor is the only one of the four where none of the walks were intentional.
Six active QB’s with the most NFL starts:
251- Tom Brady
248- Drew Brees
214- Eli Manning
198- Ben Roethlisberger
192- Philip Rivers
158- Matt Ryan
Tweet of the Day
“I wouldn’t wish that upon anybody. It happened. It was just one of those things that you never expect to happen to you, but it happened, and I’m just happy to be out here playing football.”
Chargers’ rookie Derwin James, robbed at gunpoint in LA back in June
Saturday’s quiz
Of the six active QB’s with the most NFL starts (see list above), who is the only one who has played for more than one team?
Friday’s quiz
Jim McMahon was the Chicago Bears’ QB when they won their only Super Bowl title.
Thursday’s quiz
Outfielder Dwight Evans played 20 years in the major leagues, 19 of them for the Red Sox, the last one in Baltimore.
***************************
Saturday’s List of 13: Clearing out a cluttered mind…..
13) Milwaukee Brewers are 26-9 in the second game of a series, 13-5 on road, 13-4 at home; 15-6 if they won the series opener, 11-3 if they lost (7-0 at home).
12) Bronx Bombers are 12-2 in second game of a series if they lost the opener.
11) Seattle Mariners are 10-4 in second game of a series if they lost the series opener, 8-13 if they won the opener.
10) Tampa Bay Rays are 14-5 in second game of a series if they won the opener, 4-12 if they lost the opener.
9) Toronto Blue Jays are 4-11 in second game of a series if they lost the opener.
8) There are three NFL teams this season where their backup QB’s have never started an NFL game: Carolina, Dallas and the Giants. Starters better stay healthy!!!!
7) Took me about 35 seconds Thursday night to remember when I hear Cris Collinsworth’s voice, to hit the mute button. He just irritates me, and I’m not 100% sure why.
6) Umpiring crew at Wrigley Field this weekend for Padres-Cubs series: Fieldin Culbreth, CB Bucknor, Angel Hernandez and a rookie replacement. This would be the opposite of an All-Star crew, no offense to the rookie umpire.
5) If you look at the backup QB’s, Tampa Bay’s Ryan Fitzpatrick has 119 career starts, most of any backup, and he’ll start in Weeks 1-3, with James Winston suspended. Matt Cassel has 81 career starts, 2nd-most of all NFL backups.
Nike declined to extend Winston’s endorsement deal this season.
4) There are six NFL teams with a new starting QB this season.
You look at Buffalo’s three QB’s, and they have started a combined five NFL games.
3) You see all these legal experts and writers on MSNBC, FOX News and CNN; how much are they paid for each appearance? Some of them are on almost every day.
2) Mariners’ 2B Dee Gordon turned his ankle Thursday night when he stepped on 2nd base as he tried to turn a double play.
I think fairly soon the major leagues will go to flat bases, to lessen the number of injuries from guys stepping on bases that may be slick, from rain during the game.
1) Weird Stat of the Day: Rangers’ 2B Rougned Odor is the 4th player in MLB history to walk five times and hit a home run in the same game. The other three?
Hank Aaron, Mark McGwire, Edgar Martinez.
Odor is the only one of the four where none of the walks were intentional.
Saturday. Aug. 4
British Columbia Lions (2-3 SU, 3-2 ATS) at Calgary Stampeders (6-0 SU, 5-1 ATS)
Point-Spread: Calgary -9
Total: 52
Game Overview
BC is coming off a bye after giving Ottawa a run for its money in a four-point loss on July 20 as a seven-point road underdog. Before that, the Lions split a home-and-home series against Winnipeg SU and ATS. The switch to Travis Lulay from Jonathon Jennings at quarterback appears to have provided a spark for an offense that failed to score more than 22 points in each of its first four games.
Calgary is in the driver seat in the West as clearly the best team in the CFL. The Stampeders have won each of their first six games by a double-digit margin of victory behind Bo Levi Mitchel throwing the ball all over the field and a stingy defense that has given up an average of 11.3 PPG. Mitchell is third in the league in passing yards (1,517) and he is second on the list in touchdown throws with 12.
Betting Trends
-- Calgary is a perfect 5-0 SU in its last five home games against the Lions and it has gone 7-3 SU in its last 10 home games against BC. The total has stayed UNDER in six of the last eight meetings in this West Division tilt.
*******************
Saturday, August 4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BRITISH COLUMBIA (2 - 3) at CALGARY (6 - 0) - 8/4/2018, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALGARY is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 52 over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 132-97 ATS (+25.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1996.
CALGARY is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in August games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 over the last 3 seasons.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 27-11 ATS (+14.9 Units) in road games in August games since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) in road games in weeks 5 through 9 since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
CALGARY is 4-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
CALGARY is 5-1 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, August 4
British Columbia Lions
British Columbia is 5-10-1 ATS in its last 16 games
British Columbia is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of British Columbia's last 8 games
British Columbia is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
British Columbia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games on the road
British Columbia is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Calgary
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Calgary
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of British Columbia's last 8 games when playing Calgary
British Columbia is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Calgary
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Calgary
The total has gone OVER in 7 of British Columbia's last 10 games when playing on the road against Calgary
Calgary Stampeders
Calgary is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Calgary's last 7 games
Calgary is 17-8 ATS in its last 25 games at home
Calgary is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Calgary is 23-2 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Calgary's last 6 games at home
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing British Columbia
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Calgary's last 8 games when playing British Columbia
Calgary is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against British Columbia
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Calgary's last 10 games when playing at home against British Columbia
*******************************
Saturday, August 4
BC Lions @ Calgary
Game 377-378
August 4, 2018 @ 9:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
BC Lions
106.958
Calgary
124.799
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Calgary
by 18
54
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Calgary
by 11 1/2
51
Dunkel Pick:
Calgary
(-11 1/2); Over
***********************
BC Lions (2-3) @ Calgary (6-0) (-11.5, 50)— Calgary won five in row, eight of last nine series games; they’re 3-0-1 vs spread in last four. Lions lost their last five visits here (1-4 vs spread). Under is 6-2 in last eight series games. Lions are 0-3 on road, losing by 19-22-4 points (12 vs spread)— all three of those games went over (their two home games stayed under). Calgary is unbeaten and 5-1 vs spread, winning home games by 14-10-17 points. Five of Stampeders’ six games stayed under the total.
British Columbia Lions (2-3 SU, 3-2 ATS) at Calgary Stampeders (6-0 SU, 5-1 ATS)
Point-Spread: Calgary -9
Total: 52
Game Overview
BC is coming off a bye after giving Ottawa a run for its money in a four-point loss on July 20 as a seven-point road underdog. Before that, the Lions split a home-and-home series against Winnipeg SU and ATS. The switch to Travis Lulay from Jonathon Jennings at quarterback appears to have provided a spark for an offense that failed to score more than 22 points in each of its first four games.
Calgary is in the driver seat in the West as clearly the best team in the CFL. The Stampeders have won each of their first six games by a double-digit margin of victory behind Bo Levi Mitchel throwing the ball all over the field and a stingy defense that has given up an average of 11.3 PPG. Mitchell is third in the league in passing yards (1,517) and he is second on the list in touchdown throws with 12.
Betting Trends
-- Calgary is a perfect 5-0 SU in its last five home games against the Lions and it has gone 7-3 SU in its last 10 home games against BC. The total has stayed UNDER in six of the last eight meetings in this West Division tilt.
*******************
Saturday, August 4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BRITISH COLUMBIA (2 - 3) at CALGARY (6 - 0) - 8/4/2018, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CALGARY is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 29-17 ATS (+10.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 52 over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 132-97 ATS (+25.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1996.
CALGARY is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in August games over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins over the last 3 seasons.
CALGARY is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 over the last 3 seasons.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 27-11 ATS (+14.9 Units) in road games in August games since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) in road games in weeks 5 through 9 since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
CALGARY is 4-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
CALGARY is 5-1 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, August 4
British Columbia Lions
British Columbia is 5-10-1 ATS in its last 16 games
British Columbia is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of British Columbia's last 8 games
British Columbia is 2-7 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
British Columbia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games on the road
British Columbia is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Calgary
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Calgary
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of British Columbia's last 8 games when playing Calgary
British Columbia is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Calgary
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Calgary
The total has gone OVER in 7 of British Columbia's last 10 games when playing on the road against Calgary
Calgary Stampeders
Calgary is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Calgary's last 7 games
Calgary is 17-8 ATS in its last 25 games at home
Calgary is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Calgary is 23-2 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Calgary's last 6 games at home
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing British Columbia
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Calgary's last 8 games when playing British Columbia
Calgary is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against British Columbia
Calgary is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Calgary's last 10 games when playing at home against British Columbia
*******************************
Saturday, August 4
BC Lions @ Calgary
Game 377-378
August 4, 2018 @ 9:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
BC Lions
106.958
Calgary
124.799
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Calgary
by 18
54
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Calgary
by 11 1/2
51
Dunkel Pick:
Calgary
(-11 1/2); Over
***********************
BC Lions (2-3) @ Calgary (6-0) (-11.5, 50)— Calgary won five in row, eight of last nine series games; they’re 3-0-1 vs spread in last four. Lions lost their last five visits here (1-4 vs spread). Under is 6-2 in last eight series games. Lions are 0-3 on road, losing by 19-22-4 points (12 vs spread)— all three of those games went over (their two home games stayed under). Calgary is unbeaten and 5-1 vs spread, winning home games by 14-10-17 points. Five of Stampeders’ six games stayed under the total.
PREVIEW
LIONS, STAMPS CLOSE OUT WEEK 8 IN CALGARY
CALGARY — The BC Lions know they’re in for a challenge on Saturday night at McMahon Stadium in Calgary.
Facing the league-leading, undefeated Stampeders on their own turf will be challenge enough, but the Lions will have to do it without return man Chris Rainey, running back Brandon Rutley and receiver Shaq Johnson.
BC is a bruised bunch, with starting running back Jeremiah Johnson also returning from the injured list and quarterback Travis Lulay making just his third start off a serious knee injury.
But with the West Division’s top clubs already creating separation space between themselves and the 2-3 Lions, Saturday’s game in Calgary is important for Wally Buono’s team.
“They’re a very well-coached football team, very physical in all three facets,” Buono told BCLions.com. “The offence is physical when they run the football, all three components on defence are excellent within the system, (and) their pass rush with just four guys is something you have to be aware of.”
The Leos’ pass rush has been inconsistent this season, and General Manager Ed Hervey pulled the trigger on a move to address that last week with the acquisition of defensive end Shawn Lemon.
“I beat them in the Grey Cup last year. I’m excited. It’s a good test for us as a team,” said Lemon, who recorded one sack in five games this season with Toronto prior to the bye-week trade. “It’s kind of a blessing to get in on a bye week so to say. You get time to get adjusted to the city, adjusted to the playbook. I’m feeling more and more confident with more reps every day.”
Calgary’s offensive line has given opposing teams fits over the last number of seasons, and a veteran like Lemon understands their blocking schemes and what the Stamps will try to do come Saturday.
“It’s not good against a quarterback like Bo (Levi Mitchell) to rush individually. Rush together, understand what other guys are doing and just try to play as fast as possible,” said the eighth-year veteran Lemon. “We just have to come out and be aggressive. It’s about executing the game plan, trusting the guys next to us and understanding we have to rush together.”
In addition to battling the current edition of the Stamps — which is 6-0 and pretty good in its own right — the Lions will also be battling history: BC has lost six straight games, including two in the playoffs, at McMahon.
“It would be very big for this team moving forward to get a road win in this division,” said receiver Bryan Burnham. “We have to do our best to extend drives, stay on the field and give our defence a rest when they need it because they’ve really been great all season.”
BC has shown flashes in all three phases this season, but has yet to put together a 60-minute effort.
“As an offence, we haven’t been helping them,” continued Burnham. “(Special teams coordinator) Jeff Reinebold always talks about complementary football and that’s the offence helping out the defence when we can and staying on the field. We just have to move the ball, pick up first downs and we’ll be alright.”
Personnel-wise, the Lions will make seven changes to the lineup that lost in Ottawa two weeks ago.
The key pieces entering are the aforementioned Johnson at running back and Lemon at D-end, while Kevin Elliott will start at wide receiver in place of Shaq Johnson.
A Florida A&M product, Elliott has seen his receptions and games played decrease each season since catching 50 passes for 642 yards as a member of the Toronto Argonauts in 2015; he was limited to just five catches in three games split between Hamilton and Ottawa last season.
The incredible thing about the Stamps’ perfect start to the season is everybody affiliated with the team believes they can play at a significantly higher level.
Key players have been in and out of the lineup and on any given night the offence has alternately dominated or been largely stifled.
Calgary’s injury woes will continue this week, with rookie running back Romar Morris slated to make his second straight start in place of the injured Don Jackson.
“I’m ready to go out there and make an impact,” Morris told Stampeders.com. “I want to go out there and have a great game and fill in seamlessly like last week.
“I know that I’ve put in the work to get to this point now it’s just all about putting everything together from the practice field to game action.”
Calgary running backs coach Marc Mueller believes Morris, a UNC product who carried the ball 12 times for 43 yards against Saskatchewan in Week 7, is ready to handle Jackson’s duties.
“We’re very confident that Romar will play a sound game like he did the week before,” said Mueller. “It’s what we expect from whoever is out there, to represent the horse that everyone has before you.”
Top receiver Eric Rogers will also be out for the foreseeable future following a minor knee surgery on Wednesday; the 27 year-old sits second on the Stampeders with 329 receiving yards thus far in 2018.
The challenge posed by BC is one head coach Dave Dickenson — a former Lion and player under Buono himself — knows inside and out.
“We know BC is going to come in firing all of their bullets and we have to match that and be ready to go,” said the four-time Grey Cup Champion. “It’s always a tough game against them, we’ve had some classics against BC and hopefully we find a way to get that seventh win and stay with our lead in the West.”
Offensive lineman Randy Richards will also make his season debut for Calgary at right tackle.
Crunchin’ Numbers:
8 – Of previous nine meetings between the two teams have been won by Calgary.
12 – Defensive tackles for BC’s Jordan Herdman in his team’s Week 6 loss at Ottawa. That number was the highest in league history for a first-year starter since the stat began being tracked in 1987.
14– Points or more the Stamps have led by in each of their first six games this season. Only two teams in CFL history have led by that number of points in more than six consecutive games: 1982 Winnipeg Blue Bombers (seven), 2011 BC Lions (seven).
The Calgary Stampeders are shaping up to be one of the best defensive teams in the history of the CFL; the BC Lions are struggling to put up points consistently.
But: Travis Lulay is working back into form after a long injured spell, and the Lions do have Jeremiah Johnson back this week.
Second but: The Stamps defence is giving up 10.2 points a night.
Third but: Calgary is downright dominant at McMahon Stadium.
A win would be massive for both teams; Calgary will want to maintain its two-game lead on second-place Edmonton, while the Lions will hope to make up some ground on Saskatchewan (26-19L @ Edmonton) and Winnipeg (bye) in the West Division standings.
Should be a fun one in Cowtown.
Kickoff is at 9:00 p.m. ET and can be seen on TSN.
LIONS, STAMPS CLOSE OUT WEEK 8 IN CALGARY
CALGARY — The BC Lions know they’re in for a challenge on Saturday night at McMahon Stadium in Calgary.
Facing the league-leading, undefeated Stampeders on their own turf will be challenge enough, but the Lions will have to do it without return man Chris Rainey, running back Brandon Rutley and receiver Shaq Johnson.
BC is a bruised bunch, with starting running back Jeremiah Johnson also returning from the injured list and quarterback Travis Lulay making just his third start off a serious knee injury.
But with the West Division’s top clubs already creating separation space between themselves and the 2-3 Lions, Saturday’s game in Calgary is important for Wally Buono’s team.
“They’re a very well-coached football team, very physical in all three facets,” Buono told BCLions.com. “The offence is physical when they run the football, all three components on defence are excellent within the system, (and) their pass rush with just four guys is something you have to be aware of.”
The Leos’ pass rush has been inconsistent this season, and General Manager Ed Hervey pulled the trigger on a move to address that last week with the acquisition of defensive end Shawn Lemon.
“I beat them in the Grey Cup last year. I’m excited. It’s a good test for us as a team,” said Lemon, who recorded one sack in five games this season with Toronto prior to the bye-week trade. “It’s kind of a blessing to get in on a bye week so to say. You get time to get adjusted to the city, adjusted to the playbook. I’m feeling more and more confident with more reps every day.”
Calgary’s offensive line has given opposing teams fits over the last number of seasons, and a veteran like Lemon understands their blocking schemes and what the Stamps will try to do come Saturday.
“It’s not good against a quarterback like Bo (Levi Mitchell) to rush individually. Rush together, understand what other guys are doing and just try to play as fast as possible,” said the eighth-year veteran Lemon. “We just have to come out and be aggressive. It’s about executing the game plan, trusting the guys next to us and understanding we have to rush together.”
In addition to battling the current edition of the Stamps — which is 6-0 and pretty good in its own right — the Lions will also be battling history: BC has lost six straight games, including two in the playoffs, at McMahon.
“It would be very big for this team moving forward to get a road win in this division,” said receiver Bryan Burnham. “We have to do our best to extend drives, stay on the field and give our defence a rest when they need it because they’ve really been great all season.”
BC has shown flashes in all three phases this season, but has yet to put together a 60-minute effort.
“As an offence, we haven’t been helping them,” continued Burnham. “(Special teams coordinator) Jeff Reinebold always talks about complementary football and that’s the offence helping out the defence when we can and staying on the field. We just have to move the ball, pick up first downs and we’ll be alright.”
Personnel-wise, the Lions will make seven changes to the lineup that lost in Ottawa two weeks ago.
The key pieces entering are the aforementioned Johnson at running back and Lemon at D-end, while Kevin Elliott will start at wide receiver in place of Shaq Johnson.
A Florida A&M product, Elliott has seen his receptions and games played decrease each season since catching 50 passes for 642 yards as a member of the Toronto Argonauts in 2015; he was limited to just five catches in three games split between Hamilton and Ottawa last season.
The incredible thing about the Stamps’ perfect start to the season is everybody affiliated with the team believes they can play at a significantly higher level.
Key players have been in and out of the lineup and on any given night the offence has alternately dominated or been largely stifled.
Calgary’s injury woes will continue this week, with rookie running back Romar Morris slated to make his second straight start in place of the injured Don Jackson.
“I’m ready to go out there and make an impact,” Morris told Stampeders.com. “I want to go out there and have a great game and fill in seamlessly like last week.
“I know that I’ve put in the work to get to this point now it’s just all about putting everything together from the practice field to game action.”
Calgary running backs coach Marc Mueller believes Morris, a UNC product who carried the ball 12 times for 43 yards against Saskatchewan in Week 7, is ready to handle Jackson’s duties.
“We’re very confident that Romar will play a sound game like he did the week before,” said Mueller. “It’s what we expect from whoever is out there, to represent the horse that everyone has before you.”
Top receiver Eric Rogers will also be out for the foreseeable future following a minor knee surgery on Wednesday; the 27 year-old sits second on the Stampeders with 329 receiving yards thus far in 2018.
The challenge posed by BC is one head coach Dave Dickenson — a former Lion and player under Buono himself — knows inside and out.
“We know BC is going to come in firing all of their bullets and we have to match that and be ready to go,” said the four-time Grey Cup Champion. “It’s always a tough game against them, we’ve had some classics against BC and hopefully we find a way to get that seventh win and stay with our lead in the West.”
Offensive lineman Randy Richards will also make his season debut for Calgary at right tackle.
Crunchin’ Numbers:
8 – Of previous nine meetings between the two teams have been won by Calgary.
12 – Defensive tackles for BC’s Jordan Herdman in his team’s Week 6 loss at Ottawa. That number was the highest in league history for a first-year starter since the stat began being tracked in 1987.
14– Points or more the Stamps have led by in each of their first six games this season. Only two teams in CFL history have led by that number of points in more than six consecutive games: 1982 Winnipeg Blue Bombers (seven), 2011 BC Lions (seven).
The Calgary Stampeders are shaping up to be one of the best defensive teams in the history of the CFL; the BC Lions are struggling to put up points consistently.
But: Travis Lulay is working back into form after a long injured spell, and the Lions do have Jeremiah Johnson back this week.
Second but: The Stamps defence is giving up 10.2 points a night.
Third but: Calgary is downright dominant at McMahon Stadium.
A win would be massive for both teams; Calgary will want to maintain its two-game lead on second-place Edmonton, while the Lions will hope to make up some ground on Saskatchewan (26-19L @ Edmonton) and Winnipeg (bye) in the West Division standings.
Should be a fun one in Cowtown.
Kickoff is at 9:00 p.m. ET and can be seen on TSN.
GAME RECAP
STAMPEDERS DOWN LIONS 27-18; REMAIN PERFECT
CALGARY — Defence was the order of the day as the Calgary Stampeders downed the BC Lions 27-18 on Saturday night at McMahon Stadium.
Stamps quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell eclipsed the 350-yard mark for the first time in 2018, completing 19 of 31 passes for 370 yards and a touchdown. His favoured target in the win was Kamar Jorden, who caught five passes for a ridiculous 185 yards.
Travis Lulay went 25-for-39 in the loss for BC, racking up 281 yards and throwing a touchdown and interception.
The Lions battled gamely in the second half, but every bit of momentum gained by Lulay and co. was quickly killed by Calgary.
Ja’Gared Davis paced the Stamps with seven tackles; T.J. Lee stood out defensively for the visitors with a six-tackle performance.
BC opened the scoring on the first series of the ballgame, capping a steady eight-play, 50-yard with a 40-yard Ty Long field goal.
Calgary responded quickly, with Bo Levi Mitchell stepping up in the pocket to sling a 53-yard touchdown bomb to Kamar Jorden; Rene Paredes nailed the convert, and the Stamps led 7-3.
Jameer Thurman swung momentum further in Calgary’s favour late in the first quarter, when he collected a deflected Lulay pass for his first interception of the season; the Stamps were unable to move the chains past midfield, however, and were forced to punt.
A 44-yard kick from Paredes midway through the second quarter extended Calgary’s lead to 10-3.
The Stamps offence roared to life inside the three-minute warning, as — backed up against the goal line — Mitchell aired one out for a 62-yard completion to Jorden; six plays later, Nick Arbuckle ground his way into the end zone from a yard out to complete the 102-yard drive. The ensuing Paredes convert sent Calgary to the locker room with a 17-3 lead.
BC began brightly in the second half, with the Lions defence forcing a two-and-out before a monstrous Travon Van return gave the Lions great field position. The visitors could not convert that position into points, however, as a third-and-goal pass from Lulay sailed incomplete over a diving Cory Watson in the end zone.
Punter Rob Maver then tacked on a single for the Stampeders with a booming 58-yard punt, extending the lead to 15.
Lulay responded by marching the Lions 70 yards on five plays — highlighted by a 48-yard connection to Emmanuel Arceneaux — to set up a five-yard Jeremiah Johnson touchdown run; Long’s convert cut the deficit to 18-10.
Calgary responded on the following drive, as — aided by three penalties, including an objectionable-conduct call on Anthony Orange which extended the drive — the Stamps punched the ball in from the one-yard line via Nick Arbuckle. Paredes made good on the convert to restore the hosts’ 15-point lead.
The Stamps defence then contributed two points, forcing BC to concede a safety on third down following a tackle-for-loss by Ciante Evans.
BC ratcheted the pressure up somewhat with just under five minutes remaining, as Lulay found Bryan Burnham for the latter’s first touchdown of the season; Long’s convert, plus a single on the subsequent kickoff, brought the visitors within nine.
It was as close as the Lions would come, as star Stamps linebacker Alex Singleton secured the win with 90 seconds left on a key solo tackle — his sixth of the night — in a critical third-down situation.
The loss dropped the Lions to 2-4; Wally Buono’s team will now return home for a critical divisional game against Edmonton (5-2) on Thursday Night Football (Aug. 9, 10 p.m. ET).
Calgary moved to 7-0 with the win, and will now have two full weeks off prior to a Week-10 visit to Regina (Aug. 19, 7 p.m. ET).
The victory etched the 2018 edition of the Stampeders into the franchise’s history book, as Dave Dickenson’s group became just the fifth squad in the team’s 74-year history to begin a season 7-0 (1948, ’49, ’93 and ’95).
STAMPEDERS DOWN LIONS 27-18; REMAIN PERFECT
CALGARY — Defence was the order of the day as the Calgary Stampeders downed the BC Lions 27-18 on Saturday night at McMahon Stadium.
Stamps quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell eclipsed the 350-yard mark for the first time in 2018, completing 19 of 31 passes for 370 yards and a touchdown. His favoured target in the win was Kamar Jorden, who caught five passes for a ridiculous 185 yards.
Travis Lulay went 25-for-39 in the loss for BC, racking up 281 yards and throwing a touchdown and interception.
The Lions battled gamely in the second half, but every bit of momentum gained by Lulay and co. was quickly killed by Calgary.
Ja’Gared Davis paced the Stamps with seven tackles; T.J. Lee stood out defensively for the visitors with a six-tackle performance.
BC opened the scoring on the first series of the ballgame, capping a steady eight-play, 50-yard with a 40-yard Ty Long field goal.
Calgary responded quickly, with Bo Levi Mitchell stepping up in the pocket to sling a 53-yard touchdown bomb to Kamar Jorden; Rene Paredes nailed the convert, and the Stamps led 7-3.
Jameer Thurman swung momentum further in Calgary’s favour late in the first quarter, when he collected a deflected Lulay pass for his first interception of the season; the Stamps were unable to move the chains past midfield, however, and were forced to punt.
A 44-yard kick from Paredes midway through the second quarter extended Calgary’s lead to 10-3.
The Stamps offence roared to life inside the three-minute warning, as — backed up against the goal line — Mitchell aired one out for a 62-yard completion to Jorden; six plays later, Nick Arbuckle ground his way into the end zone from a yard out to complete the 102-yard drive. The ensuing Paredes convert sent Calgary to the locker room with a 17-3 lead.
BC began brightly in the second half, with the Lions defence forcing a two-and-out before a monstrous Travon Van return gave the Lions great field position. The visitors could not convert that position into points, however, as a third-and-goal pass from Lulay sailed incomplete over a diving Cory Watson in the end zone.
Punter Rob Maver then tacked on a single for the Stampeders with a booming 58-yard punt, extending the lead to 15.
Lulay responded by marching the Lions 70 yards on five plays — highlighted by a 48-yard connection to Emmanuel Arceneaux — to set up a five-yard Jeremiah Johnson touchdown run; Long’s convert cut the deficit to 18-10.
Calgary responded on the following drive, as — aided by three penalties, including an objectionable-conduct call on Anthony Orange which extended the drive — the Stamps punched the ball in from the one-yard line via Nick Arbuckle. Paredes made good on the convert to restore the hosts’ 15-point lead.
The Stamps defence then contributed two points, forcing BC to concede a safety on third down following a tackle-for-loss by Ciante Evans.
BC ratcheted the pressure up somewhat with just under five minutes remaining, as Lulay found Bryan Burnham for the latter’s first touchdown of the season; Long’s convert, plus a single on the subsequent kickoff, brought the visitors within nine.
It was as close as the Lions would come, as star Stamps linebacker Alex Singleton secured the win with 90 seconds left on a key solo tackle — his sixth of the night — in a critical third-down situation.
The loss dropped the Lions to 2-4; Wally Buono’s team will now return home for a critical divisional game against Edmonton (5-2) on Thursday Night Football (Aug. 9, 10 p.m. ET).
Calgary moved to 7-0 with the win, and will now have two full weeks off prior to a Week-10 visit to Regina (Aug. 19, 7 p.m. ET).
The victory etched the 2018 edition of the Stampeders into the franchise’s history book, as Dave Dickenson’s group became just the fifth squad in the team’s 74-year history to begin a season 7-0 (1948, ’49, ’93 and ’95).
WEEK 9
Thursday, August 9, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
10:00 PM Edmonton Eskimos British Columbia Lions
Friday, August 10, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
8:30 PM Hamilton Tiger Cats Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Saturday, August 11, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
8:00 PM Montreal Alouettes Ottawa Redblacks
************************
WEST DIVISION
RK TEAM GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV
1 Calgary 7 7 0 0 14 206 86 4-0-0 3-0-0 2-0-0
2 Edmonton 7 5 2 0 10 198 167 3-1-0 2-1-0 3-0-0
3 Winnipeg 7 4 3 0 8 239 147 2-1-0 2-2-0 1-2-0
4 Saskatchewan 7 3 4 0 6 151 175 2-2-0 1-2-0 0-2-0
5 BC 6 2 4 0 4 126 165 2-0-0 0-4-0 1-3-0
EAST DIVISION
RK TEAM GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV
1 Ottawa 7 4 3 0 8 176 168 2-1-0 2-2-0 2-1-0
2 Hamilton 7 3 4 0 6 181 147 1-2-0 2-2-0 1-1-0
3 Toronto 7 2 5 0 4 137 220 2-2-0 0-3-0 1-0-0
4 Montreal 7 1 6 0 2 103 242 0-4-0 1-2-0 0-2-0
*************************
BEST BETS
DATE W-L-T % UNITS
08/04/2018 0-2-0 0.00% -11.00
08/03/2018 2-0-0 100.00% +10.00
08/02/2018 2-1-1 50.00% +4.50
TOTALS............4-3-1........57.14%.....+3.50
Thursday, August 9, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
10:00 PM Edmonton Eskimos British Columbia Lions
Friday, August 10, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
8:30 PM Hamilton Tiger Cats Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Saturday, August 11, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
8:00 PM Montreal Alouettes Ottawa Redblacks
************************
WEST DIVISION
RK TEAM GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV
1 Calgary 7 7 0 0 14 206 86 4-0-0 3-0-0 2-0-0
2 Edmonton 7 5 2 0 10 198 167 3-1-0 2-1-0 3-0-0
3 Winnipeg 7 4 3 0 8 239 147 2-1-0 2-2-0 1-2-0
4 Saskatchewan 7 3 4 0 6 151 175 2-2-0 1-2-0 0-2-0
5 BC 6 2 4 0 4 126 165 2-0-0 0-4-0 1-3-0
EAST DIVISION
RK TEAM GP W L T PTS F A HOME AWAY DIV
1 Ottawa 7 4 3 0 8 176 168 2-1-0 2-2-0 2-1-0
2 Hamilton 7 3 4 0 6 181 147 1-2-0 2-2-0 1-1-0
3 Toronto 7 2 5 0 4 137 220 2-2-0 0-3-0 1-0-0
4 Montreal 7 1 6 0 2 103 242 0-4-0 1-2-0 0-2-0
*************************
BEST BETS
DATE W-L-T % UNITS
08/04/2018 0-2-0 0.00% -11.00
08/03/2018 2-0-0 100.00% +10.00
08/02/2018 2-1-1 50.00% +4.50
TOTALS............4-3-1........57.14%.....+3.50
Sunday’s 6-pack
— Arizona 3B Jake Lamb (shoulder) will have rotator cuff surgery, is done for year.
— Giants’ 3B Pablo Sandoval (hamstring) is also done for the season
— St Louis OF Dexter Fowler broke his foot, is probably done for the year.
— Mike Trout has a bruised wrist, missed last three Angel games.
— Reds OF Scott Schebler (shoulder) had a setback with his rehab, is still on the DL
— Chicago Bears’ backup QB Chase Daniel has earned $24.3M in his career and has thrown only 78 passes in eight seasons.
Tweet of the Day
“Truly, I just think Carolina was bad for me. It was a bad fit from the get-go. If you would’ve put me with any other quarterback, let’s be real, you know what I’m saying? Any other accurate quarterback like Rodgers or Eli Manning or Big Ben — anybody! — quarterbacks with knowledge, that know how to place a ball and give you a better chance to catch the ball. It just felt like I wasn’t in that position.”
Bills’ WR Kelvin Benjamin, on his time in Carolina
Sunday’s quiz
Who managed the Tampa Bay Rays in their only World Series appearance?
Saturday’s quiz
Of the six active QB’s with the most NFL starts, Drew Brees is the only one who has played for more than one team (Chargers/Saints)
Friday’s quiz
Jim McMahon was the Chicago Bears’ QB when they won their only Super Bowl title.
*******************
Sunday’s List of 13: Trends on NFC teams
Arizona Cardinals scored 123 fewer points LY than they did in 2016; this year, they’ve got a new coach, two new QB’s. Last three years, Redbirds are 1-7-1 vs spread in NFC West home games.
Last four years, Atlanta Falcons are 9-2 vs spread as an underdog of 3 or fewer points. Last five years, they’re 6-15 as a non-divisional home favorite.
Last two years, Carolina is 6-12-1 vs spread when favored; since 2012, Panthers are 20-8 as a road underdog. Norv Turner is the new OC this season, which will be interesting.
Chicago Bears are 8-1-2 vs spread in last 11 games as a home underdog; they improved from -20 to even in turnovers LY, but won only two more games, improving from 3-13 to 5-11.
Since 2014, Dallas Cowboys are 12-4-1 vs spread as road favorites; over last decade, they’re 22-39 as home favorites.
Under Jim Caldwell, favorites were 22-7-3 vs spread in Detroit Lion home games. Since 2008, Lions are 4-11 are home underdogs. They were +11 in turnovers LY and still missed the playoffs.
Green Bay missed playoffs LY for first time in eight years; since 2014, they’re 17-8-2 as home favorites. Over is 21-11 in Packer games the last two years.
Since 2015, Rams are 3-7 vs spread as a favorite of 3 or fewer points; their last playoff win was in 2004. Since 2010, LA is 6-11 as a divisional home favorite.
Kirk Cousins will be Minnesota’s 5th different Week 1 starting QB the last five years, and 11th in last 15 years; despite that, they went 32-16 last three years. Under Zimmer, Vikings are 14-5 as favorites of 3 or fewer points.
New Orleans has made playoffs seven times since 2000; they won their first playoff game six of those seven years. Saints are 16-8 vs spread in las 24 games as an underdog. Since 2011, over is 35-21 in their home games.
Giants have played in one playoff game the last six years; over last nine years, underdogs are 34-19 vs spread in their divisional games.
Last five years, over is 27-13 in Eagles’ road games. Under Pederson, Philly is 10-4-1 vs spread at home. Since 2012, Eagles are 6-11-1 vs spread in divisional home games.
49ers started last season 1-10, then won their last five games; expectations are lot higher this season. Since 2014, they’re 13-19 vs spread at home.
Seahawks made playoffs 11 of last 14 years. Since 2015, under is 15-9 in Seattle road games. Since ’11, Seahawks are 23-12-1 vs spread coming off a loss.
Since 2014, Buccaneers are 3-10 vs spread as home favorites, 2-8 as favorites of 3 or fewer points. Tampa Bay hasn’t made the playoffs since 2007; their last playoff win was the Super Bowl 16 years ago.
Since 2015, Redskins are 14-7 vs spread in game following a loss; since ’08, they’re 18-28-2 vs spread in non-divisional home games, but 17-9 as a divisional road underdog.
— Arizona 3B Jake Lamb (shoulder) will have rotator cuff surgery, is done for year.
— Giants’ 3B Pablo Sandoval (hamstring) is also done for the season
— St Louis OF Dexter Fowler broke his foot, is probably done for the year.
— Mike Trout has a bruised wrist, missed last three Angel games.
— Reds OF Scott Schebler (shoulder) had a setback with his rehab, is still on the DL
— Chicago Bears’ backup QB Chase Daniel has earned $24.3M in his career and has thrown only 78 passes in eight seasons.
Tweet of the Day
“Truly, I just think Carolina was bad for me. It was a bad fit from the get-go. If you would’ve put me with any other quarterback, let’s be real, you know what I’m saying? Any other accurate quarterback like Rodgers or Eli Manning or Big Ben — anybody! — quarterbacks with knowledge, that know how to place a ball and give you a better chance to catch the ball. It just felt like I wasn’t in that position.”
Bills’ WR Kelvin Benjamin, on his time in Carolina
Sunday’s quiz
Who managed the Tampa Bay Rays in their only World Series appearance?
Saturday’s quiz
Of the six active QB’s with the most NFL starts, Drew Brees is the only one who has played for more than one team (Chargers/Saints)
Friday’s quiz
Jim McMahon was the Chicago Bears’ QB when they won their only Super Bowl title.
*******************
Sunday’s List of 13: Trends on NFC teams
Arizona Cardinals scored 123 fewer points LY than they did in 2016; this year, they’ve got a new coach, two new QB’s. Last three years, Redbirds are 1-7-1 vs spread in NFC West home games.
Last four years, Atlanta Falcons are 9-2 vs spread as an underdog of 3 or fewer points. Last five years, they’re 6-15 as a non-divisional home favorite.
Last two years, Carolina is 6-12-1 vs spread when favored; since 2012, Panthers are 20-8 as a road underdog. Norv Turner is the new OC this season, which will be interesting.
Chicago Bears are 8-1-2 vs spread in last 11 games as a home underdog; they improved from -20 to even in turnovers LY, but won only two more games, improving from 3-13 to 5-11.
Since 2014, Dallas Cowboys are 12-4-1 vs spread as road favorites; over last decade, they’re 22-39 as home favorites.
Under Jim Caldwell, favorites were 22-7-3 vs spread in Detroit Lion home games. Since 2008, Lions are 4-11 are home underdogs. They were +11 in turnovers LY and still missed the playoffs.
Green Bay missed playoffs LY for first time in eight years; since 2014, they’re 17-8-2 as home favorites. Over is 21-11 in Packer games the last two years.
Since 2015, Rams are 3-7 vs spread as a favorite of 3 or fewer points; their last playoff win was in 2004. Since 2010, LA is 6-11 as a divisional home favorite.
Kirk Cousins will be Minnesota’s 5th different Week 1 starting QB the last five years, and 11th in last 15 years; despite that, they went 32-16 last three years. Under Zimmer, Vikings are 14-5 as favorites of 3 or fewer points.
New Orleans has made playoffs seven times since 2000; they won their first playoff game six of those seven years. Saints are 16-8 vs spread in las 24 games as an underdog. Since 2011, over is 35-21 in their home games.
Giants have played in one playoff game the last six years; over last nine years, underdogs are 34-19 vs spread in their divisional games.
Last five years, over is 27-13 in Eagles’ road games. Under Pederson, Philly is 10-4-1 vs spread at home. Since 2012, Eagles are 6-11-1 vs spread in divisional home games.
49ers started last season 1-10, then won their last five games; expectations are lot higher this season. Since 2014, they’re 13-19 vs spread at home.
Seahawks made playoffs 11 of last 14 years. Since 2015, under is 15-9 in Seattle road games. Since ’11, Seahawks are 23-12-1 vs spread coming off a loss.
Since 2014, Buccaneers are 3-10 vs spread as home favorites, 2-8 as favorites of 3 or fewer points. Tampa Bay hasn’t made the playoffs since 2007; their last playoff win was the Super Bowl 16 years ago.
Since 2015, Redskins are 14-7 vs spread in game following a loss; since ’08, they’re 18-28-2 vs spread in non-divisional home games, but 17-9 as a divisional road underdog.
Wednesday’s 6-pack
Odds to win the 2019 college basketball title a long time from now:
— Duke Blue Devils 11-2
— Kentucky Wildcats, Kansas Jayhawks 6-1
— Gonzaga Bulldogs 7-1
— Villanova Wildcats 8-1
— Nevada Wolf Pack 10-1
— North Carolina Tar Heels, Virginia Cavaliers 12-1
Tweet of the Day
“Listen, I’m glad nobody saw that I was shaking. That was my childhood hero. … He’s the reason I eat my vegetables and say my prayers. … Take your vitamins and say your prayers, brother!”
Buccaneers’ DE Vinny Curry, after meeting Hulk Hogan this week
Wednesday’s quiz
Kings County in New York is better known by another name; what is it?
Tuesday’s quiz
Everyone knows Jim Kelly played for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL, but he also played for the USFL’s Houston Gamblers, before he played in the NFL.
Monday’s quiz
Terry Collins managed the Angels before Mike Scioscia.
***************************
Wednesday’s List of 13: Mid-week musings……
13) Its good if you learn something new every day; was reading an article today about a card game called booray, a cross between spades and hearts that has its roots in Louisiana and is very popular amongst NBA players on airplanes and in hotels.
Professional athletes are competitive by nature, whether they’re playing ball or cards or doing whatever it is that they do. They also have a lot of money.
12) Go to actionnetwork.com for an interesting article about how in 2009, a booray game between two players on the Washington Wizards got out of hand and I’m understating that. Go read the article; poor Flip Saunders, who was coaching the Wizards at the time.
11) I’m watching Hard Knocks on HBO the other night, from last year’s show featuring the Tampa Bay Bucs, and the narrator says this line:
“Quite simply, he’s the most important player on the team.”
He was talking about QB Jameis Winston, and if you’re a Bucs’ fan, it has to make you queasy, because Winston is suspended for the first three games this season, for off-field issues.
Buccaneers opened at +7.5 in their season opener at New Orleans; game has been bet up to 9.5, with Ryan Fitzpatrick the likely Tampa Bay starter at QB.
10) The great Tony Gwynn got his 2,000th hit on August 6, 1993 and he got his 3,000th hit on an August 6, 1999. Gwynn’s mother’s birthday was August 6th.
9) 76ers’ rookie Zhaire Smith broke his foot this week; what is it with Sixers rookies and foot injuries?
8) Sounds like when Robinson Cano returns to the Seattle Mariners next week, it’ll be as a first baseman. He is playing first base in his AAA; there are thoughts he could play 3B, too, but since he can’t play in the postseason, Dee Gordon will likely stay at second for Seattle.
7) Last week, the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces needed nearly 26 hours to travel to Washington from Las Vegas after flight delays and cancellations Friday. By the time the team reached its hotel, it was 3:45 p.m. — about four hours before the scheduled tip.
Aces players decided not to play because of concerns about their health and safety after 26 hours of travel; the WNBA ruled Tuesday that the Aces have to forfeit that game.
6) Sounds like Lakers-Warriors will be on Christmas Day; who ever would’ve guessed?
5) Bronx Bombers are still on the hook for $47M over the next three years to Jacoby Ellsbury, the oft-injured outfielder who had hip surgery in NYC this week.
4) Get well soon to Red Sox TV announcer Jerry Remy, who has battled cancer multiple times in the last decade and now has to do it again. We wish him well.
3) RIP to hockey great Stan Mikita, 78 who passed away this week. Mikita played for 22 years with the Chicago Blackhawks, is their all-time leading scorer.
One of my first memories as a young Bruins fan was rooting against the Blackhawks, who had Mikita and Bobby Hull as their best players. RIP, sir.
2) An Irish guy living in Vancouver went streaking during the 9th inning of the Toronto-Mariners game in Seattle Saturday night, all for an $80 bet. Now the guy may get deported back to Ireland, because of his subsequent arrest. Brilliant!!!
1) Which reminds me that when the Blue Jays visit Seattle every year, a ton of Toronto fans invade Safeco Field; the Blue Jays are Canada’s team, after all, and Seattle is close to Canada.
Odds to win the 2019 college basketball title a long time from now:
— Duke Blue Devils 11-2
— Kentucky Wildcats, Kansas Jayhawks 6-1
— Gonzaga Bulldogs 7-1
— Villanova Wildcats 8-1
— Nevada Wolf Pack 10-1
— North Carolina Tar Heels, Virginia Cavaliers 12-1
Tweet of the Day
“Listen, I’m glad nobody saw that I was shaking. That was my childhood hero. … He’s the reason I eat my vegetables and say my prayers. … Take your vitamins and say your prayers, brother!”
Buccaneers’ DE Vinny Curry, after meeting Hulk Hogan this week
Wednesday’s quiz
Kings County in New York is better known by another name; what is it?
Tuesday’s quiz
Everyone knows Jim Kelly played for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL, but he also played for the USFL’s Houston Gamblers, before he played in the NFL.
Monday’s quiz
Terry Collins managed the Angels before Mike Scioscia.
***************************
Wednesday’s List of 13: Mid-week musings……
13) Its good if you learn something new every day; was reading an article today about a card game called booray, a cross between spades and hearts that has its roots in Louisiana and is very popular amongst NBA players on airplanes and in hotels.
Professional athletes are competitive by nature, whether they’re playing ball or cards or doing whatever it is that they do. They also have a lot of money.
12) Go to actionnetwork.com for an interesting article about how in 2009, a booray game between two players on the Washington Wizards got out of hand and I’m understating that. Go read the article; poor Flip Saunders, who was coaching the Wizards at the time.
11) I’m watching Hard Knocks on HBO the other night, from last year’s show featuring the Tampa Bay Bucs, and the narrator says this line:
“Quite simply, he’s the most important player on the team.”
He was talking about QB Jameis Winston, and if you’re a Bucs’ fan, it has to make you queasy, because Winston is suspended for the first three games this season, for off-field issues.
Buccaneers opened at +7.5 in their season opener at New Orleans; game has been bet up to 9.5, with Ryan Fitzpatrick the likely Tampa Bay starter at QB.
10) The great Tony Gwynn got his 2,000th hit on August 6, 1993 and he got his 3,000th hit on an August 6, 1999. Gwynn’s mother’s birthday was August 6th.
9) 76ers’ rookie Zhaire Smith broke his foot this week; what is it with Sixers rookies and foot injuries?
8) Sounds like when Robinson Cano returns to the Seattle Mariners next week, it’ll be as a first baseman. He is playing first base in his AAA; there are thoughts he could play 3B, too, but since he can’t play in the postseason, Dee Gordon will likely stay at second for Seattle.
7) Last week, the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces needed nearly 26 hours to travel to Washington from Las Vegas after flight delays and cancellations Friday. By the time the team reached its hotel, it was 3:45 p.m. — about four hours before the scheduled tip.
Aces players decided not to play because of concerns about their health and safety after 26 hours of travel; the WNBA ruled Tuesday that the Aces have to forfeit that game.
6) Sounds like Lakers-Warriors will be on Christmas Day; who ever would’ve guessed?
5) Bronx Bombers are still on the hook for $47M over the next three years to Jacoby Ellsbury, the oft-injured outfielder who had hip surgery in NYC this week.
4) Get well soon to Red Sox TV announcer Jerry Remy, who has battled cancer multiple times in the last decade and now has to do it again. We wish him well.
3) RIP to hockey great Stan Mikita, 78 who passed away this week. Mikita played for 22 years with the Chicago Blackhawks, is their all-time leading scorer.
One of my first memories as a young Bruins fan was rooting against the Blackhawks, who had Mikita and Bobby Hull as their best players. RIP, sir.
2) An Irish guy living in Vancouver went streaking during the 9th inning of the Toronto-Mariners game in Seattle Saturday night, all for an $80 bet. Now the guy may get deported back to Ireland, because of his subsequent arrest. Brilliant!!!
1) Which reminds me that when the Blue Jays visit Seattle every year, a ton of Toronto fans invade Safeco Field; the Blue Jays are Canada’s team, after all, and Seattle is close to Canada.
CFL Betting Recap - Week 8
Joe Williams
League Betting Notes
-- Favorites went 3-1 SU in Week 8
-- Favorites/underdogs went 2-2 ATS in Week 8
-- Home teams posted a 3-1 SU record in Week 8
-- Home/road teams posted a 2-2 ATS record in Week 8
-- The 'Over/under' went 2-2 in Week 8
Analysis
Toronto (2-5) kicked off the week on Thursday night with an exciting 42-41 win against Ottawa (4-3), winning outright as a 6 1/2-point underdog. After opening the season with a 4-0 record for the 'under', the 'over' has connected in each of the past three. The Argonauts have forgotten how to play defense, allowing 39.7 points per game (PPG) across the past three.
Edmonton (5-2) has won a season-high three straight games after winning against barely covering against Saskatchewan (3-4). The Eskimos have covered in back-to-back games for the first time this season, too, while the 'under' is 3-1 over their past four.
The 'under' is 3-1-1 across the past five games for the Roughriders. Saskatchewan has had issues on offense, scoring 19 or fewer points in four of their past six outings.They're also averaging 19.0 PPG in their past three home contests, too.
Johnny Manziel made his much-anticipated CFL debut, but it was a disaster for Montreal (1-6). His second pass of the game was an interception, the first of four picks on the night in a 50-11 stomping courtesy of Hamilton (3-4) continues, Manziel's first CFL team. QB Jeremiah Masoli outshined his former understudy, and the Ti-Cats picked up a much-needed victory of their own after going 0-3 SU/ATS across the past three.
Calgary (7-0) kept their record unblemished with a 27-18 victory at home against BC Lions (2-4). Suddenly the Stamps are having issues covering, however, going 1-2 ATS over the past three after opening 4-0 ATS.
For the Lions, they have covered a season-high three straight outings, and they're 2-0 ATS over the past two on the road after opening 0-2 ATS in their first two away from home.
Team Betting Notes and A Look Ahead
-- The Esks and Lions will tussle in Vancouver in Week 9, kicking off a three-game weekend in the CFL. Edmonton is 7-1 ATS in their past eight against the West, and 6-2 ATS in their past six on the road. The Lions are 4-10-1 ATS in their past 15 against teams with a winning record, 4-11-1 ATS in their past 16 against the West and 0-7-1 ATS in their past eight games in Week 9. BC is also 0-4 ATS in their past four tries against Edmonton.
-- The Ti-Cats look to build on their rout of the Als, facing Winnipeg (4-3) in Manitoba. The Bombers have covered five of their seven games this season, and the 'over' is also 5-2. At home, the Bombers are a perfect 3-0 ATS to date, and the 'over' is also 3-0 in their three home outings.
-- Hamilton has covered eight of their past 10 on the road, but they're just 6-13-2 ATS in the past 21 against teams with a winning overall mark. Winnipeg has covered seven of the past 10 at home, but they're just 2-5 ATS in their past seven following a bye week. Hamilton is 5-1 ATS in the past six trips to Winnipeg.
-- The 'under' has connected in six straight meetings between the Ti-Cats and Bombers, and the under is 4-1 in the past five battles in Winnipeg.
-- Montreal hit rock-bottom with a 39-point loss at home last week. They'll hit the road, but they are just 2-7 ATS in the past nine away from home, while going 1-5 ATS in the past six against winning sides. Montreal is also 5-17 ATS in the past 22 overall.
-- The RedBlacks looks to stay hot against losing sides, going 7-3 ATS in the past 10 against teams with a losing record. They're also 7-3 ATS in the past 10 against the Eastern Conference. However, they have covered just one of the past five at home.
-- Ottawa has dominated their series against Montreal, covering 10 of the past 11 meetings, including 4-1 ATS in the past five at home. The 'under' has cashed in five straight meetings.
Joe Williams
League Betting Notes
-- Favorites went 3-1 SU in Week 8
-- Favorites/underdogs went 2-2 ATS in Week 8
-- Home teams posted a 3-1 SU record in Week 8
-- Home/road teams posted a 2-2 ATS record in Week 8
-- The 'Over/under' went 2-2 in Week 8
Analysis
Toronto (2-5) kicked off the week on Thursday night with an exciting 42-41 win against Ottawa (4-3), winning outright as a 6 1/2-point underdog. After opening the season with a 4-0 record for the 'under', the 'over' has connected in each of the past three. The Argonauts have forgotten how to play defense, allowing 39.7 points per game (PPG) across the past three.
Edmonton (5-2) has won a season-high three straight games after winning against barely covering against Saskatchewan (3-4). The Eskimos have covered in back-to-back games for the first time this season, too, while the 'under' is 3-1 over their past four.
The 'under' is 3-1-1 across the past five games for the Roughriders. Saskatchewan has had issues on offense, scoring 19 or fewer points in four of their past six outings.They're also averaging 19.0 PPG in their past three home contests, too.
Johnny Manziel made his much-anticipated CFL debut, but it was a disaster for Montreal (1-6). His second pass of the game was an interception, the first of four picks on the night in a 50-11 stomping courtesy of Hamilton (3-4) continues, Manziel's first CFL team. QB Jeremiah Masoli outshined his former understudy, and the Ti-Cats picked up a much-needed victory of their own after going 0-3 SU/ATS across the past three.
Calgary (7-0) kept their record unblemished with a 27-18 victory at home against BC Lions (2-4). Suddenly the Stamps are having issues covering, however, going 1-2 ATS over the past three after opening 4-0 ATS.
For the Lions, they have covered a season-high three straight outings, and they're 2-0 ATS over the past two on the road after opening 0-2 ATS in their first two away from home.
Team Betting Notes and A Look Ahead
-- The Esks and Lions will tussle in Vancouver in Week 9, kicking off a three-game weekend in the CFL. Edmonton is 7-1 ATS in their past eight against the West, and 6-2 ATS in their past six on the road. The Lions are 4-10-1 ATS in their past 15 against teams with a winning record, 4-11-1 ATS in their past 16 against the West and 0-7-1 ATS in their past eight games in Week 9. BC is also 0-4 ATS in their past four tries against Edmonton.
-- The Ti-Cats look to build on their rout of the Als, facing Winnipeg (4-3) in Manitoba. The Bombers have covered five of their seven games this season, and the 'over' is also 5-2. At home, the Bombers are a perfect 3-0 ATS to date, and the 'over' is also 3-0 in their three home outings.
-- Hamilton has covered eight of their past 10 on the road, but they're just 6-13-2 ATS in the past 21 against teams with a winning overall mark. Winnipeg has covered seven of the past 10 at home, but they're just 2-5 ATS in their past seven following a bye week. Hamilton is 5-1 ATS in the past six trips to Winnipeg.
-- The 'under' has connected in six straight meetings between the Ti-Cats and Bombers, and the under is 4-1 in the past five battles in Winnipeg.
-- Montreal hit rock-bottom with a 39-point loss at home last week. They'll hit the road, but they are just 2-7 ATS in the past nine away from home, while going 1-5 ATS in the past six against winning sides. Montreal is also 5-17 ATS in the past 22 overall.
-- The RedBlacks looks to stay hot against losing sides, going 7-3 ATS in the past 10 against teams with a losing record. They're also 7-3 ATS in the past 10 against the Eastern Conference. However, they have covered just one of the past five at home.
-- Ottawa has dominated their series against Montreal, covering 10 of the past 11 meetings, including 4-1 ATS in the past five at home. The 'under' has cashed in five straight meetings.
CFL Betting Notes - Week 9
David Schwab
Week 8 Betting Recap
For the second week in a row in the CFL, the favorites went 3-1 straight-up. However, they were an even 2-2 against the spread. Toronto pulled off the lone SU upset on Thursday night with a thrilling 42-41 victory at home against Ottawa as a 6 ½-point underdog. Later on Thursday night, Edmonton got past Saskatchewan 26-19 to barely cover the 6 ½ points at home.
On Friday night, Hamilton crushed Montreal 50-11 as a seven-point favorite on the road. Calgary remained perfect on the year with Saturday’ 27-18 victory against British Columbia, but it failed to cover as a heavy 12 ½-point favorite at home.
Thursday, Aug. 9
Edmonton Eskimos (5-2 SU, 3-4 ATS) at British Columbia Lions (2-4 SU, 4-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Edmonton -3 ½
Total: 54
Game Overview
Edmonton has won its last two games both SU and ATS with much better consistency on each side of the ball. You know that things are going well when Mike Reilly completes just 48.1 percent of his 27 passing attempts for 257 yards and the Eskimos still win. With that performance last week, he has now thrown for a CFL-high 2,320 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first seven games. CJ Gable is third in the league in rushing yards with 481 on 94 attempts.
The Lions became the first team this season to lose to Calgary by fewer than 10 points. They have now covered in their last three games while closing as underdogs in all three contests. Travis Lulay is firmly back in place as BC’s starting quarterback despite the losing record. He has put the ball up 112 times with 72 completions for 932 yards and four touchdown throws against two interceptions.
Betting Trends
-- The Eskimos are 7-1 SU in the last eight meetings and they have gone 5-1 ATS in their last six games in this West Division matchup. The total has gone OVER in six of the last nine meetings.
Friday, Aug. 10
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (3-4 SU, 3-4 ATS) at Winnipeg Blue Bombers (4-3 SU, 5-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Winnipeg -4
Total: 57
Game Overview
The Tiger-Cats snapped a SU three-game losing streak while closing as favorites in convincing fashion. Granted they were playing Montreal, but there was some solid balance on offense with 250 yards passing and 169 yards on the ground. Credit Hamilton’s defense for making Johnny Manziel’s CFL debut at quarterback utterly forgettable. This unit picked him off four times while limiting the Alouettes to 107 yards through the air.
Winnipeg went into last week’s bye with three victories (SU and ATS) in its previous four games. This includes a sweep against Toronto in a home-and-home series. Matt Nichols has completed 63.1 percent of his 111 passing attempts for 873 yards and five touchdowns in his first four starts at quarterback. Running back Andrew Harris leads the CFL in rushing with 638 yards and five scores on 105 attempts.
Betting Trends
-- Hamilton has an 8-4 edge ATS in the last 12 meetings in this inter-division tilt and it is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games against Winnipeg. The total has stayed UNDER in each of the last five meetings.
Saturday. Aug. 11
Montreal Alouettes (1-6 SU, 2-5 ATS) at Ottawa RedBlacks (4-3 SU, 3-4 ATS)
Point-spread: Ottawa -13.5
Total: 50
Game Overview
Things cannot get much worse for Montreal in its dismal one-win effort through its first seven games. Manziel was less than impressive in his CFL debut, but things should start to slow down a bit this week against an Ottawa defense that is suddenly suspect coming off last week’s fourth-quarter collapse against Toronto. The one positive takeaway for the Alouettes was the 176 yards it gained on the ground in last week’s lopsided loss.
Ottawa blew a 24-point lead in the third quarter of last Thursday’s loss to the Argonauts. Quarterback Trevor Harris did his part with 381 yards passing and two touchdown throws behind a completion rate of 77.1 percent on 35 passing attempts. Running back William Powell was held to 35 yards rushing on 14 carries in that game. However, he is still ranked second in rushing overall in the CFL with 504 yards on 106 attempts.
Betting Trends
-- Ottawa has won its last five games against Montreal both SU and ATS with the total staying UNDER the closing betting line in all five matchups.
David Schwab
Week 8 Betting Recap
For the second week in a row in the CFL, the favorites went 3-1 straight-up. However, they were an even 2-2 against the spread. Toronto pulled off the lone SU upset on Thursday night with a thrilling 42-41 victory at home against Ottawa as a 6 ½-point underdog. Later on Thursday night, Edmonton got past Saskatchewan 26-19 to barely cover the 6 ½ points at home.
On Friday night, Hamilton crushed Montreal 50-11 as a seven-point favorite on the road. Calgary remained perfect on the year with Saturday’ 27-18 victory against British Columbia, but it failed to cover as a heavy 12 ½-point favorite at home.
Thursday, Aug. 9
Edmonton Eskimos (5-2 SU, 3-4 ATS) at British Columbia Lions (2-4 SU, 4-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Edmonton -3 ½
Total: 54
Game Overview
Edmonton has won its last two games both SU and ATS with much better consistency on each side of the ball. You know that things are going well when Mike Reilly completes just 48.1 percent of his 27 passing attempts for 257 yards and the Eskimos still win. With that performance last week, he has now thrown for a CFL-high 2,320 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first seven games. CJ Gable is third in the league in rushing yards with 481 on 94 attempts.
The Lions became the first team this season to lose to Calgary by fewer than 10 points. They have now covered in their last three games while closing as underdogs in all three contests. Travis Lulay is firmly back in place as BC’s starting quarterback despite the losing record. He has put the ball up 112 times with 72 completions for 932 yards and four touchdown throws against two interceptions.
Betting Trends
-- The Eskimos are 7-1 SU in the last eight meetings and they have gone 5-1 ATS in their last six games in this West Division matchup. The total has gone OVER in six of the last nine meetings.
Friday, Aug. 10
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (3-4 SU, 3-4 ATS) at Winnipeg Blue Bombers (4-3 SU, 5-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Winnipeg -4
Total: 57
Game Overview
The Tiger-Cats snapped a SU three-game losing streak while closing as favorites in convincing fashion. Granted they were playing Montreal, but there was some solid balance on offense with 250 yards passing and 169 yards on the ground. Credit Hamilton’s defense for making Johnny Manziel’s CFL debut at quarterback utterly forgettable. This unit picked him off four times while limiting the Alouettes to 107 yards through the air.
Winnipeg went into last week’s bye with three victories (SU and ATS) in its previous four games. This includes a sweep against Toronto in a home-and-home series. Matt Nichols has completed 63.1 percent of his 111 passing attempts for 873 yards and five touchdowns in his first four starts at quarterback. Running back Andrew Harris leads the CFL in rushing with 638 yards and five scores on 105 attempts.
Betting Trends
-- Hamilton has an 8-4 edge ATS in the last 12 meetings in this inter-division tilt and it is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games against Winnipeg. The total has stayed UNDER in each of the last five meetings.
Saturday. Aug. 11
Montreal Alouettes (1-6 SU, 2-5 ATS) at Ottawa RedBlacks (4-3 SU, 3-4 ATS)
Point-spread: Ottawa -13.5
Total: 50
Game Overview
Things cannot get much worse for Montreal in its dismal one-win effort through its first seven games. Manziel was less than impressive in his CFL debut, but things should start to slow down a bit this week against an Ottawa defense that is suddenly suspect coming off last week’s fourth-quarter collapse against Toronto. The one positive takeaway for the Alouettes was the 176 yards it gained on the ground in last week’s lopsided loss.
Ottawa blew a 24-point lead in the third quarter of last Thursday’s loss to the Argonauts. Quarterback Trevor Harris did his part with 381 yards passing and two touchdown throws behind a completion rate of 77.1 percent on 35 passing attempts. Running back William Powell was held to 35 yards rushing on 14 carries in that game. However, he is still ranked second in rushing overall in the CFL with 504 yards on 106 attempts.
Betting Trends
-- Ottawa has won its last five games against Montreal both SU and ATS with the total staying UNDER the closing betting line in all five matchups.
CFL
Dunkel
Week 9
Thursday, August 9
Edmonton @ BC Lions
Game 351-352
August 9, 2018 @ 10:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Edmonton
114.888
BC Lions
108.565
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 6 1/2
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 3 1/2
54
Dunkel Pick:
Edmonton
(-3 1/2); Under
Friday, August 10
Hamilton @ Winnipeg
Game 353-354
August 10, 2018 @ 8:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
113.557
Winnipeg
119.985
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Winnipeg
by 6 1/2
53
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Winnipeg
by 4
57
Dunkel Pick:
Winnipeg
(-4); Under
Saturday, August 11
Montreal @ Ottawa
Game 355-356
August 11, 2018 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Montreal
100.113
Ottawa
107.127
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Ottawa
by 7
58
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Ottawa
by 13 1/2
49 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Montreal
(+13 1/2); Over
Dunkel
Week 9
Thursday, August 9
Edmonton @ BC Lions
Game 351-352
August 9, 2018 @ 10:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Edmonton
114.888
BC Lions
108.565
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 6 1/2
48
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 3 1/2
54
Dunkel Pick:
Edmonton
(-3 1/2); Under
Friday, August 10
Hamilton @ Winnipeg
Game 353-354
August 10, 2018 @ 8:30 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
113.557
Winnipeg
119.985
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Winnipeg
by 6 1/2
53
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Winnipeg
by 4
57
Dunkel Pick:
Winnipeg
(-4); Under
Saturday, August 11
Montreal @ Ottawa
Game 355-356
August 11, 2018 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Montreal
100.113
Ottawa
107.127
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Ottawa
by 7
58
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Ottawa
by 13 1/2
49 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Montreal
(+13 1/2); Over
CFL
Long Sheet
Week 9
Thursday, August 9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDMONTON (5 - 2) at BRITISH COLUMBIA (2 - 4) - 8/9/2018, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
EDMONTON is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
EDMONTON is 21-41 ATS (-24.1 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 58-33 ATS (+21.7 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 5-1 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 5-1 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
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Friday, August 10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAMILTON (3 - 4) at WINNIPEG (4 - 3) - 8/10/2018, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WINNIPEG is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in August games over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing on a Friday over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WINNIPEG is 3-2 against the spread versus HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
WINNIPEG is 3-2 straight up against HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
5 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, August 11
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTREAL (1 - 6) at OTTAWA (4 - 3) - 8/11/2018, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
OTTAWA is 6-1 against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
OTTAWA is 6-1 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
6 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Long Sheet
Week 9
Thursday, August 9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDMONTON (5 - 2) at BRITISH COLUMBIA (2 - 4) - 8/9/2018, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
EDMONTON is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
EDMONTON is 21-41 ATS (-24.1 Units) in road games after 2 or more consecutive straight up wins since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 58-33 ATS (+21.7 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.
Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 5-1 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 5-1 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, August 10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAMILTON (3 - 4) at WINNIPEG (4 - 3) - 8/10/2018, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WINNIPEG is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 18-8 ATS (+9.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in August games over the last 3 seasons.
WINNIPEG is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in non-conference games over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing on a Friday over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
WINNIPEG is 3-2 against the spread versus HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
WINNIPEG is 3-2 straight up against HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
5 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, August 11
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTREAL (1 - 6) at OTTAWA (4 - 3) - 8/11/2018, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 5-16 ATS (-12.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) off a division game over the last 3 seasons.
MONTREAL is 6-17 ATS (-12.7 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MONTREAL is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) after 2 or more consecutive straight up losses over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
OTTAWA is 6-1 against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
OTTAWA is 6-1 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
6 of 7 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
