WELL ALL-IN-ALL A DISAPPOINTING WEEK ALTHOUGH WE STILL CAME OUT AHEAD AT THE END. SATURDAY 6-5 DAY FOR A +2.5 NET UNIT GAIN AFTER VIG, AND SUNDAY 4-3 IN THE NFL FOR A +.4 NET UNIT PROFIT AFTER VIG. JUST CAN'T SEEM TO CATCH A NEEDED BREAK AS WE HAVE CERTAINLY CHOSEN THE RIGHT SIDES WITH SAN DIEGO OUTGAINING BALTIMORE BY 140 TOTAL YARDS, BUT AGAIN FOR THE THIRD STRAIGHT WEEK, VERY COSTLY TURNOVERS KILLED OUR CHANCE FOR AN ATS WIN. THE 8* PLAY AS PROJECTED SHOULD HAVE BEEN AN EASY WINNER WITH NORTH TEXAS STICKING RIGHT WITH ARKANSAS, BUT A TOUGH SECOND QUARTER WHERE THEY GAVE UP 24 POINTS FOLLOWED BY A SCORELESS 3RD AND 4TH QUARTERS. BUT WE ARE RIGHT ON THE CUSBIT GUYS, WHEN THE 8* PLAY HITS NEXT TIME...IT WILL BE A HUGE DAY! AS ALWAYS, I PLAY ALL GAMES AT $100/UNIT SO ADJUST THE RATING ACCORDING TO HOW YOU BET. GOOD LUCK IF YOU PLAY!
THIS WEEK AM GOING TO POST SOME EARLY PLAYS FOR THE PURPOSES OF POSSIBLY MIDDELING THE GAME COME SATURDAY MORNING. I WOULD RECOMMEND BUYING THE LSU LINE NOW...AS THE GAME WILL GO UP PAST A TWO (2) TD NUMBER BEFORE GAMETIME...AND THEN BUYBACK YOUR BET FOR A GREAT MIDDELING OPPORTUNITY. THE LINE IS CURRENTLY -13!
IF YOUR INTERESTED IN GETTING A FULL SEASON OF MY PLAYS AND THE NEWSLETTERS SENT ME A PM...AS I WILL NOT BE POSTING ALL MY PLAYS THIS YEAR.
8* MY TOP PLAY...VERY RARE (23-8 ) LAST YEAR IN FOOTBALL (74%)
6-7* HIGH RATED SELECTION ONLY WHEN ALOT OF GAMES ON THE CARD TO CHOSE FROM (WELL OVER 60%)
5* EXCEPTIONAL PLAY USUALLY HIGHEST WHEN ONLY A FEW GAMES
4* VERY STRONG SELECTION
3* STRONG SELECTION
2* PROBABLE COVER (MOST COMMON RATING)
1* A GAME THAT SHOULD COVER
OPINION PLAY: GAME THAT I THINK MAY WIN BUT OFTEN JUST TO WATCH A GAME OR A LEAN USUALLY 1/2 A UNIT.
Season Record: College 20-20 50% (-5.20) -$520
Season Record: NFL 10-10 50% (-1.50) -$150
SUMMARY OF PLAYS NCAA FOOTBALL:
(3*) WASHINGTON -12.5 ADDED
(2*) CALIFORNIA +13.5 ADDED
(2*) TULANE +30 ADDED
(2*) KANSAS +10.5 UNCONFIRMED
SUMMARY OF GAMES FOR POTENTIAL BUYBACK:
(2*) SAN DIEGO STATE +12
(2*) NAVY +2
SUMMARY OF PLAYS NFL FOOTBALL:
(3*) EAGLES +3 ADDED
(1*) EAGLES +160 ADDED
----------------------------------------------------------------------
STANFORD (2 - 0) at WASHINGTON (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 3:30 PM
141 STANFORD
142 WASHINGTON -12.5
Detailed Analysis
Washington quarterback Cody Pickett has attempted 38 passes per game this season. He may have to match or exceed that total Saturday when the 18th-ranked Huskies open Pac-10 Conference play against Stanford, which leads the nation in rushing defense. While Stanford (2-0) has faced two teams that also like to throw the ball - San Jose State and Brigham Young - it has allowed only four yards on the ground in 41 attempts. "It's a real pressure-oriented defense and that gives you a lot of things to concern yourself with," Huskies coach Keith Gilbertson said. Washington (2-1) has bounced back from a season-opening loss at Ohio State with a pair of wins against overmatched opponents. Last week, The Huskies overcame a sloppy start to rout Idaho, 45-14, behind an effective ground attack. Washington rushed for 231 yards against the Vandals, its highest total since the 2001 Rose Bowl. Rich Alexis ran for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Huskies allowed Idaho to close to 17-14 early in the second half, but put away the game by scoring on four straight possessions. Pickett completed 20-of-29 passes for 234 yards. The Cardinal, who have played the fewest games of any Pac-10 team, rallied for an 18-14 victory over BYU last week as quarterback Trent Edwards scored on a 14-yard run with 3:51 remaining. Stanford overcame a sub-par effort by Edwards, who completed 10-of-23 passes for just 25 yards. He also threw two interceptions and was sacked four times. But the Cardinal held BYU to minus-five yards rushing on 25 carries. Stanford did allow the Cougars to pass for 310 yards.
Washington leads the all-time series with Stanford, 38-32-4, but it has been one-sided in recent years, with the Huskies winning 19 of the last 21 meetings. Washington has reeled off 10 wins in a row at home and has not lost in Seattle to the Cardinal since 1975. Suprisingly, the Cardinal are undefeated this year, checking in at a surprising 2-0 after upsetting BYU at Provo last week. But the win streak will end this week in Seattle. First, Stanford beat a horrible San Jose St. club at home. Then came last week's surprise win over the Cougars. But a closer inspection of the stats in that upset show that the Cardinal quarterback, freshman Trent Edwards, was 10 of 23 for 25 yards. That's no typo...25 yards thru the air to go along with 2 interceptions! Fortunately for Stanford, BYU happened to commit 5 critical turnovers on the day. That won't cut it vs. a Washington club that has bounced back nicely from that 28-9 setback to Ohio State three weeks ago. Suddenly the Huskies have found a ground game to compliment QB Cody Pickett, running for 426 yards total the past two games. Washington has won 5 straight in this series, covering four times. And will Again.
Projected Score: Washington 36, Stanford 20
PLAY 3* UNITS ON WASHINGTON -12.5
USC (3 - 0) at CALIFORNIA (2 - 3)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 5:00 PM
147 USC -13.5
148 CALIFORNIA
Detailed Analysis
If it is possible to be a better team a year after losing a Heisman Trophy winner, Southern California may be the perfect example. The third-ranked Trojans (3-0) will look to continue their early season excellence when they come off a bye to open Pac-10 play against California (2-3) on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll came into this season wondering how he would replace quarterback Carson Palmer, last year's Heisman winner who guided the Trojans to an 11-2 record and a win over Iowa in the Orange Bowl. So far, Carroll hasn't had to worry about the most important position on the field, because he's getting big contributions from just about everywhere else. Whether it was the defense's stellar effort in a 23-0 win at then-No. 6 Auburn to open the season, or the offense combining for 96 points in wins over BYU and Hawaii, the Trojans look like a team on a mission to not only win the Pac-10 but also contend for a national championship. It also doesn't hurt that that Palmer's replacement, Matt Leinart, a 6-foot-5, 220-pounder, has stepped in and been efficient throwing 51-for-85 for 647 yards and six touchdowns with three interceptions.
The road continues against Cal, a team in transition following the departure of quarterback Kyle Boller. "We're pumped up the Pac-10 is finally here and we can play games that give us a chance to win a championship," Carroll said. "It starts off with Cal, a young team that's transitioned from a good season last year and has started to play good football. They caused problems for teams last year and us in particular. They had a big-time win at Illinois that I'm sure was a boost." Carroll said he expects Tedford to mix things up on offense, which could make Cal unpredictable. "Jeff Tedford has done a great job with the style of the offense and I think he's one of the better coaches we will face all year," Carroll said. "He creates challenges for us on defense. It's a very wide-open style. They do a lot of things and make it very difficult for us."
Cal coach Jeff Tedford knows what his team is up against. "(The Trojans) are very talented. They are very well coached," Tedford said. "They have great schemes. They are fast, athletic, great tacklers on defense. They have great receivers and a great offensive line. They are a very well-balanced group."
Cal comes into this matchup with momentum after winning 31-24 over Illinois at Champaign last week. A 68-yard punt return by Vincent Strang late in the first half put Cal up by two touchdowns, and the Golden Bears withstood a furious Illinois rally in the final five minutes. Cal quarterback Aaron Rodgers, making his first start of the season, completed 20 of 37 passes for 263 yards and one touchdown, a 14-yarder to Geoff McArthur. Rodgers and McArthur hooked up six times for 90 yards in the second quarter. Still, Tedford says his players will have to be even better to stand a chance against USC. "We have to make the plays when they come our way," Tedford said. "We have to take advantage of all our opportunities. It comes down to execution." Cal has covered 6 of past 8 vs. hated Pac-10 rival USC, including narrow 30-28 loss at L.A. Coliseum LY
While the Trojans enjoyed a week off, the Golden Bears were shocking Illinois in Champaign, 31-24. In a scheduling quirk, this will be California's sixth game while USC will be playing just their fourth. It's too early in the year for fatigue to be a factor so advantage Cal who has performed well vs. some very good competition. The offense has been particularly impressive under the guidance of quarterback Aaron Rogers. The Juco transfer, who had an incredible 28 to 4 ratio of touchdowns to interceptions last year, is doing a pretty good job of making Bear fans forget about the departed Kyle Boller. The Trojans are a legitimate Top 10 club but are laying big points to a team that has yet to lose a game by more than 11 points under the guidance of head coach Jeff Tedford is a dicey proposition! Take the points and pray!
Projected Score: USC 30, California 21
PLAY 2* UNITS ON CALIFORNIA +13.5
TULANE (3 - 1) at TEXAS (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 7:00 PM
169 TULANE
170 TEXAS -30
Detailed Analysis
No. 13 Texas will be facing one of the hottest quarterbacks in the country Saturday when it hosts Tulane in its final non-conference contest. Tulane's J.P. Losman has thrown for more than 300 yards in each of the Green Wave's first four games and leads the nation in touchdowns (15) and passing yards (1,355). Losman has completed 64 percent of his passes (109-of-171) and ranks second in the nation in total offense. He passed for 350 yards and five touchdowns against Army. "They have a talented quarterback, a lot of good receivers and the offensive line is returning eight or nine starters," Texas defensive tackle Kalen Thornton said. "They are a very talented team, and it's going to be tough to get out there and get after them."
Texas leads the all-time series with Tulane, 16-1-1, and has not allowed a point against the Green Wave (3-1) since 1962. Since then, the Longhorns have won four games by a combined score of 132-0, including a 49-0 victory last season. But this year's Tulane team is averaging 35.8 points per game. After their first three contests were decided by three points, the Green Wave defeated Army, 50-33, last week, forcing eight turnovers. "We beat them pretty well last year, but they were 0-3," Texas quarterback Chance Mock said. "By most pro prospects, they have the highest rated quarterback in the country, and that will be a challenge for our defense." Last week, Texas (2-1) rebounded from a home loss to Arkansas by routing winless Rice, 48-7. The Longhorns rushed for just 62 yards against Arkansas, but Benson ran for 85 in the first half alone against Rice. The Longhorns exploited Rice's defense on Saturday night, as RB Cedric Benson scored three touchdowns and backup RB Selvin Young had two more in a 41-point first half on their way to an easy 48-7 victory over the Owls. Against the Owls, they managed 323 total net rushing yards, a marked improvement!
Make no mistake, the Green Wave can score: In four games this season, Tulane has outscored its opponents 143-123 and won its last three contests after losing to TCU in the season opener. Although the Green Wave have some momentum, it could be hard to beat the Longhorns on their home turf. Texas defeated the Green Wave in Tulane last season 49-0 as 32-point favorites and this one looks to be a surefire shoot-out so take the hot QB with 30 points.
Projected Score: Texas 42, Tulane 28
PLAY 2* UNITS ON TULANE +30
MISSOURI (4 - 0) at KANSAS (3 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 12:35 PM
167 MISSOURI -11.5 -10.5
168 KANSAS
Detailed Analysis
No. 23 Missouri heads into the start of conference play undefeated - but just barely. After escaping with an overtime win against Middle Tennessee, the 23rd-ranked Tigers seek their first 5-0 start in more than two decades Saturday when they visit Kansas in the Big 12 Conference opener for both teams. Middle Tennessee came into the game as a three-touchdown underdog, but Missouri needed Brad Smith's four-yard touchdown run and a 36-yard extra point by Mike Matheny to hold off the winless Blue Raiders, 41-40, in triple overtime. Matheny was forced to kick a long extra point because of a penalty for excessive celebration following Smith's touchdown. Smith passed for three touchdowns and accounted for 238 yards of total offense for Missouri, which has not been 5-0 since 1981, when the Tigers finished 8-4.
Kansas (3-1) is off to its best start since 1987, but faces a stiffer test this week after routing Division I-AA Jacksonville State, 41-6. Bill Whittemore, who threw for 319 yards, passed for two touchdowns and ran for two more in the Jayhawks' 28-point first quarter, Kansas' highest-scoring period since 1964. Whittemore became the first player in school history to be responsible for four touchdowns in one period. The Jayhawks appear to be making progress under second-year coach Mark Mangino, having already surpassed last season's win total (2-10). But they have dropped 15 straight conference games.
Missouri and Kansas are meeting for the 112th time in the nation's second-oldest rivalry. The Tigers are looking for their first three-game winning streak in the series since 1986-88. Missouri posted a 36-12 victory last season as Smith passed for two touchdowns and scored on a 75-yard run.
The Jayhawks (3-1 SU, 2-1 ATS) have been on a roll lately, losing their first game of the season to Northwestern, but coming back strong with three consecutive victories over UNLV, Wyoming and Jacksonville State. In those three victories, Kansas has scored 46, 42 and 41 points, respectively. QB Bill Whittemore passed for 319 yards with two TDs and rushed for two more TDs against Jacksonville State. The Tigers have looked tough to beat and should get another victory here in what could turn out to be a high-scoring contest. Again, backing the hot QB with the points.
Projected Score: Missouri 40, Kansas 36
PLAY 2* UNITS ON KANSAS +10.5
SAN DIEGO ST (3 - 1) at UCLA (1 - 2)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 10:00 PM
179 SAN DIEGO ST
180 UCLA -12
Detailed Analysis
Analysis forthcoming check back later!
PLAY 2* UNITS ON SAN DIEGO STATE +12
POSSIBLE MIDDLE WHEN THE LINE MOVES, OR POSSIBLE UPGRADE
NAVY (2 - 1) at RUTGERS (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 7:00 PM
157 NAVY
158 RUTGERS -2
Detailed Analysis
Analysis forthcoming check back later!
PLAY 2* UNITS ON NAVY +2
POSSIBLE UPGRADE
--------------------------------------------------------------------
PHILADELPHIA (0 - 2) at BUFFALO (2 - 1)
Week 4 Sunday, 9/28/2003 1:00 PM
199 PHILADELPHIA 41
200 BUFFALO -3.5
Detailed Analysis
Will the real Philadelphia Eagles please stand up? They haven't yet, although in fairness, they've lost to the last two Super Bowl champs (Bucs, Patriots). On the other hand, both those games were at home and the Eagles (0-2 SU/ATS) are averaging 5 points per game! The Eagles entered this season with Super Bowl aspirations. After losing in the NFC championship game each of the last two seasons, the Eagles entered this year with one goal - Super Bowl or bust. So far, it's been a major bust as the Eagles have been manhandled in losing their two home games by a combined 48-10 against the defending Super Bowl champion Bucs and Pats.
The Eagles enter this contest off their bye and are looking to avoid their first three-game losing streak since dropping four in a row in 1999 - Andy Reid's first season as coach. Reid, who has built a reputation as an offensive coach, has watched his offense look downright offensive through two games. The Eagles have committed seven turnovers, yielded 10 sacks and Reid has abandoned the running game. McNabb has completed just 45 percent (37-of-82) of his passes for 334 yards and three interceptions. Buckhalter, who began the season as the Eagles' starting running back, has just one carry in two games. "We lost two games and people think it's the end of the world," Buckhalter said. "We're going to go out there and play some emotional football and start a winning streak." The Eagles' defense also has been decimated by injuries. They have lost three defensive linemen to season-ending injuries and cornerback B Taylor and fellow Pro Bowl free safety B Dawkins likely will miss their second straight game with foot injuries.
Many, think that being shorthanded on defense could be trouble against the Bills, who feature quarterback Bledsoe and star receiver E Moulds. Running back T Henry could miss the contest with injured ribs. Bledsoe and the rest of the Bills' offense will be looking to get back on track after getting shut down in last Sunday's 17-7 loss at Miami. The Bills managed just 118 total yards and eight first downs in losing for the first time in three games. Against the Dolphins, Bledsoe completed 10-of-25 passes for 98 yards, with two interceptions. Moulds was held to two receptions for 30 yards.
Buffalo leads the series, 5-4. The Bills posted a 26-0 victory over the Eagles in the last meeting between the teams here in 1999. Perhaps getting away from the Philly boo-birds will help. Injuries have hit Philly hard, but with two weeks to prepare for this matchup look for Andy Reid to steady the ship and for innovative defensive coordinator Jimmy Johnson to have some tricks up his sleeve, though missing safety Brian Dawkins and possibly cornerback Bobby Taylor. This is a great spot for the Eagles. Coming off a bye and back-toback home losses, the Eagles have to be extremely hungry for a win. Add Buffalo’s terrible 2-20 ATS record (11 ATS losses in a row) in the game following a Miami game and Philly’s sterling 13-5 ATS mark as road dogs and the game sets up perfectly. Remember, the Green Birds are 7-1 ATS in games off a SU favorite loss with Reid.
Projected Score: BUF Bills 17, PHI Eagles 24
PLAY 3* UNITS ON THE EAGLES +3.5
PLAY EAGLES MONEYLINE +160
[This message was edited by Sports Guru on September 25, 2003 at 02:08 PM.]
THIS WEEK AM GOING TO POST SOME EARLY PLAYS FOR THE PURPOSES OF POSSIBLY MIDDELING THE GAME COME SATURDAY MORNING. I WOULD RECOMMEND BUYING THE LSU LINE NOW...AS THE GAME WILL GO UP PAST A TWO (2) TD NUMBER BEFORE GAMETIME...AND THEN BUYBACK YOUR BET FOR A GREAT MIDDELING OPPORTUNITY. THE LINE IS CURRENTLY -13!
IF YOUR INTERESTED IN GETTING A FULL SEASON OF MY PLAYS AND THE NEWSLETTERS SENT ME A PM...AS I WILL NOT BE POSTING ALL MY PLAYS THIS YEAR.
8* MY TOP PLAY...VERY RARE (23-8 ) LAST YEAR IN FOOTBALL (74%)
6-7* HIGH RATED SELECTION ONLY WHEN ALOT OF GAMES ON THE CARD TO CHOSE FROM (WELL OVER 60%)
5* EXCEPTIONAL PLAY USUALLY HIGHEST WHEN ONLY A FEW GAMES
4* VERY STRONG SELECTION
3* STRONG SELECTION
2* PROBABLE COVER (MOST COMMON RATING)
1* A GAME THAT SHOULD COVER
OPINION PLAY: GAME THAT I THINK MAY WIN BUT OFTEN JUST TO WATCH A GAME OR A LEAN USUALLY 1/2 A UNIT.
Season Record: College 20-20 50% (-5.20) -$520
Season Record: NFL 10-10 50% (-1.50) -$150
SUMMARY OF PLAYS NCAA FOOTBALL:
(3*) WASHINGTON -12.5 ADDED
(2*) CALIFORNIA +13.5 ADDED
(2*) TULANE +30 ADDED
(2*) KANSAS +10.5 UNCONFIRMED
SUMMARY OF GAMES FOR POTENTIAL BUYBACK:
(2*) SAN DIEGO STATE +12
(2*) NAVY +2
SUMMARY OF PLAYS NFL FOOTBALL:
(3*) EAGLES +3 ADDED
(1*) EAGLES +160 ADDED
----------------------------------------------------------------------
STANFORD (2 - 0) at WASHINGTON (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 3:30 PM
141 STANFORD
142 WASHINGTON -12.5
Detailed Analysis
Washington quarterback Cody Pickett has attempted 38 passes per game this season. He may have to match or exceed that total Saturday when the 18th-ranked Huskies open Pac-10 Conference play against Stanford, which leads the nation in rushing defense. While Stanford (2-0) has faced two teams that also like to throw the ball - San Jose State and Brigham Young - it has allowed only four yards on the ground in 41 attempts. "It's a real pressure-oriented defense and that gives you a lot of things to concern yourself with," Huskies coach Keith Gilbertson said. Washington (2-1) has bounced back from a season-opening loss at Ohio State with a pair of wins against overmatched opponents. Last week, The Huskies overcame a sloppy start to rout Idaho, 45-14, behind an effective ground attack. Washington rushed for 231 yards against the Vandals, its highest total since the 2001 Rose Bowl. Rich Alexis ran for 116 yards and two touchdowns. The Huskies allowed Idaho to close to 17-14 early in the second half, but put away the game by scoring on four straight possessions. Pickett completed 20-of-29 passes for 234 yards. The Cardinal, who have played the fewest games of any Pac-10 team, rallied for an 18-14 victory over BYU last week as quarterback Trent Edwards scored on a 14-yard run with 3:51 remaining. Stanford overcame a sub-par effort by Edwards, who completed 10-of-23 passes for just 25 yards. He also threw two interceptions and was sacked four times. But the Cardinal held BYU to minus-five yards rushing on 25 carries. Stanford did allow the Cougars to pass for 310 yards.
Washington leads the all-time series with Stanford, 38-32-4, but it has been one-sided in recent years, with the Huskies winning 19 of the last 21 meetings. Washington has reeled off 10 wins in a row at home and has not lost in Seattle to the Cardinal since 1975. Suprisingly, the Cardinal are undefeated this year, checking in at a surprising 2-0 after upsetting BYU at Provo last week. But the win streak will end this week in Seattle. First, Stanford beat a horrible San Jose St. club at home. Then came last week's surprise win over the Cougars. But a closer inspection of the stats in that upset show that the Cardinal quarterback, freshman Trent Edwards, was 10 of 23 for 25 yards. That's no typo...25 yards thru the air to go along with 2 interceptions! Fortunately for Stanford, BYU happened to commit 5 critical turnovers on the day. That won't cut it vs. a Washington club that has bounced back nicely from that 28-9 setback to Ohio State three weeks ago. Suddenly the Huskies have found a ground game to compliment QB Cody Pickett, running for 426 yards total the past two games. Washington has won 5 straight in this series, covering four times. And will Again.
Projected Score: Washington 36, Stanford 20
PLAY 3* UNITS ON WASHINGTON -12.5
USC (3 - 0) at CALIFORNIA (2 - 3)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 5:00 PM
147 USC -13.5
148 CALIFORNIA
Detailed Analysis
If it is possible to be a better team a year after losing a Heisman Trophy winner, Southern California may be the perfect example. The third-ranked Trojans (3-0) will look to continue their early season excellence when they come off a bye to open Pac-10 play against California (2-3) on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll came into this season wondering how he would replace quarterback Carson Palmer, last year's Heisman winner who guided the Trojans to an 11-2 record and a win over Iowa in the Orange Bowl. So far, Carroll hasn't had to worry about the most important position on the field, because he's getting big contributions from just about everywhere else. Whether it was the defense's stellar effort in a 23-0 win at then-No. 6 Auburn to open the season, or the offense combining for 96 points in wins over BYU and Hawaii, the Trojans look like a team on a mission to not only win the Pac-10 but also contend for a national championship. It also doesn't hurt that that Palmer's replacement, Matt Leinart, a 6-foot-5, 220-pounder, has stepped in and been efficient throwing 51-for-85 for 647 yards and six touchdowns with three interceptions.
The road continues against Cal, a team in transition following the departure of quarterback Kyle Boller. "We're pumped up the Pac-10 is finally here and we can play games that give us a chance to win a championship," Carroll said. "It starts off with Cal, a young team that's transitioned from a good season last year and has started to play good football. They caused problems for teams last year and us in particular. They had a big-time win at Illinois that I'm sure was a boost." Carroll said he expects Tedford to mix things up on offense, which could make Cal unpredictable. "Jeff Tedford has done a great job with the style of the offense and I think he's one of the better coaches we will face all year," Carroll said. "He creates challenges for us on defense. It's a very wide-open style. They do a lot of things and make it very difficult for us."
Cal coach Jeff Tedford knows what his team is up against. "(The Trojans) are very talented. They are very well coached," Tedford said. "They have great schemes. They are fast, athletic, great tacklers on defense. They have great receivers and a great offensive line. They are a very well-balanced group."
Cal comes into this matchup with momentum after winning 31-24 over Illinois at Champaign last week. A 68-yard punt return by Vincent Strang late in the first half put Cal up by two touchdowns, and the Golden Bears withstood a furious Illinois rally in the final five minutes. Cal quarterback Aaron Rodgers, making his first start of the season, completed 20 of 37 passes for 263 yards and one touchdown, a 14-yarder to Geoff McArthur. Rodgers and McArthur hooked up six times for 90 yards in the second quarter. Still, Tedford says his players will have to be even better to stand a chance against USC. "We have to make the plays when they come our way," Tedford said. "We have to take advantage of all our opportunities. It comes down to execution." Cal has covered 6 of past 8 vs. hated Pac-10 rival USC, including narrow 30-28 loss at L.A. Coliseum LY
While the Trojans enjoyed a week off, the Golden Bears were shocking Illinois in Champaign, 31-24. In a scheduling quirk, this will be California's sixth game while USC will be playing just their fourth. It's too early in the year for fatigue to be a factor so advantage Cal who has performed well vs. some very good competition. The offense has been particularly impressive under the guidance of quarterback Aaron Rogers. The Juco transfer, who had an incredible 28 to 4 ratio of touchdowns to interceptions last year, is doing a pretty good job of making Bear fans forget about the departed Kyle Boller. The Trojans are a legitimate Top 10 club but are laying big points to a team that has yet to lose a game by more than 11 points under the guidance of head coach Jeff Tedford is a dicey proposition! Take the points and pray!
Projected Score: USC 30, California 21
PLAY 2* UNITS ON CALIFORNIA +13.5
TULANE (3 - 1) at TEXAS (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 7:00 PM
169 TULANE
170 TEXAS -30
Detailed Analysis
No. 13 Texas will be facing one of the hottest quarterbacks in the country Saturday when it hosts Tulane in its final non-conference contest. Tulane's J.P. Losman has thrown for more than 300 yards in each of the Green Wave's first four games and leads the nation in touchdowns (15) and passing yards (1,355). Losman has completed 64 percent of his passes (109-of-171) and ranks second in the nation in total offense. He passed for 350 yards and five touchdowns against Army. "They have a talented quarterback, a lot of good receivers and the offensive line is returning eight or nine starters," Texas defensive tackle Kalen Thornton said. "They are a very talented team, and it's going to be tough to get out there and get after them."
Texas leads the all-time series with Tulane, 16-1-1, and has not allowed a point against the Green Wave (3-1) since 1962. Since then, the Longhorns have won four games by a combined score of 132-0, including a 49-0 victory last season. But this year's Tulane team is averaging 35.8 points per game. After their first three contests were decided by three points, the Green Wave defeated Army, 50-33, last week, forcing eight turnovers. "We beat them pretty well last year, but they were 0-3," Texas quarterback Chance Mock said. "By most pro prospects, they have the highest rated quarterback in the country, and that will be a challenge for our defense." Last week, Texas (2-1) rebounded from a home loss to Arkansas by routing winless Rice, 48-7. The Longhorns rushed for just 62 yards against Arkansas, but Benson ran for 85 in the first half alone against Rice. The Longhorns exploited Rice's defense on Saturday night, as RB Cedric Benson scored three touchdowns and backup RB Selvin Young had two more in a 41-point first half on their way to an easy 48-7 victory over the Owls. Against the Owls, they managed 323 total net rushing yards, a marked improvement!
Make no mistake, the Green Wave can score: In four games this season, Tulane has outscored its opponents 143-123 and won its last three contests after losing to TCU in the season opener. Although the Green Wave have some momentum, it could be hard to beat the Longhorns on their home turf. Texas defeated the Green Wave in Tulane last season 49-0 as 32-point favorites and this one looks to be a surefire shoot-out so take the hot QB with 30 points.
Projected Score: Texas 42, Tulane 28
PLAY 2* UNITS ON TULANE +30
MISSOURI (4 - 0) at KANSAS (3 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 12:35 PM
167 MISSOURI -11.5 -10.5
168 KANSAS
Detailed Analysis
No. 23 Missouri heads into the start of conference play undefeated - but just barely. After escaping with an overtime win against Middle Tennessee, the 23rd-ranked Tigers seek their first 5-0 start in more than two decades Saturday when they visit Kansas in the Big 12 Conference opener for both teams. Middle Tennessee came into the game as a three-touchdown underdog, but Missouri needed Brad Smith's four-yard touchdown run and a 36-yard extra point by Mike Matheny to hold off the winless Blue Raiders, 41-40, in triple overtime. Matheny was forced to kick a long extra point because of a penalty for excessive celebration following Smith's touchdown. Smith passed for three touchdowns and accounted for 238 yards of total offense for Missouri, which has not been 5-0 since 1981, when the Tigers finished 8-4.
Kansas (3-1) is off to its best start since 1987, but faces a stiffer test this week after routing Division I-AA Jacksonville State, 41-6. Bill Whittemore, who threw for 319 yards, passed for two touchdowns and ran for two more in the Jayhawks' 28-point first quarter, Kansas' highest-scoring period since 1964. Whittemore became the first player in school history to be responsible for four touchdowns in one period. The Jayhawks appear to be making progress under second-year coach Mark Mangino, having already surpassed last season's win total (2-10). But they have dropped 15 straight conference games.
Missouri and Kansas are meeting for the 112th time in the nation's second-oldest rivalry. The Tigers are looking for their first three-game winning streak in the series since 1986-88. Missouri posted a 36-12 victory last season as Smith passed for two touchdowns and scored on a 75-yard run.
The Jayhawks (3-1 SU, 2-1 ATS) have been on a roll lately, losing their first game of the season to Northwestern, but coming back strong with three consecutive victories over UNLV, Wyoming and Jacksonville State. In those three victories, Kansas has scored 46, 42 and 41 points, respectively. QB Bill Whittemore passed for 319 yards with two TDs and rushed for two more TDs against Jacksonville State. The Tigers have looked tough to beat and should get another victory here in what could turn out to be a high-scoring contest. Again, backing the hot QB with the points.
Projected Score: Missouri 40, Kansas 36
PLAY 2* UNITS ON KANSAS +10.5
SAN DIEGO ST (3 - 1) at UCLA (1 - 2)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 10:00 PM
179 SAN DIEGO ST
180 UCLA -12
Detailed Analysis
Analysis forthcoming check back later!
PLAY 2* UNITS ON SAN DIEGO STATE +12
POSSIBLE MIDDLE WHEN THE LINE MOVES, OR POSSIBLE UPGRADE
NAVY (2 - 1) at RUTGERS (2 - 1)
Week 5 Saturday, 9/27/2003 7:00 PM
157 NAVY
158 RUTGERS -2
Detailed Analysis
Analysis forthcoming check back later!
PLAY 2* UNITS ON NAVY +2
POSSIBLE UPGRADE
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PHILADELPHIA (0 - 2) at BUFFALO (2 - 1)
Week 4 Sunday, 9/28/2003 1:00 PM
199 PHILADELPHIA 41
200 BUFFALO -3.5
Detailed Analysis
Will the real Philadelphia Eagles please stand up? They haven't yet, although in fairness, they've lost to the last two Super Bowl champs (Bucs, Patriots). On the other hand, both those games were at home and the Eagles (0-2 SU/ATS) are averaging 5 points per game! The Eagles entered this season with Super Bowl aspirations. After losing in the NFC championship game each of the last two seasons, the Eagles entered this year with one goal - Super Bowl or bust. So far, it's been a major bust as the Eagles have been manhandled in losing their two home games by a combined 48-10 against the defending Super Bowl champion Bucs and Pats.
The Eagles enter this contest off their bye and are looking to avoid their first three-game losing streak since dropping four in a row in 1999 - Andy Reid's first season as coach. Reid, who has built a reputation as an offensive coach, has watched his offense look downright offensive through two games. The Eagles have committed seven turnovers, yielded 10 sacks and Reid has abandoned the running game. McNabb has completed just 45 percent (37-of-82) of his passes for 334 yards and three interceptions. Buckhalter, who began the season as the Eagles' starting running back, has just one carry in two games. "We lost two games and people think it's the end of the world," Buckhalter said. "We're going to go out there and play some emotional football and start a winning streak." The Eagles' defense also has been decimated by injuries. They have lost three defensive linemen to season-ending injuries and cornerback B Taylor and fellow Pro Bowl free safety B Dawkins likely will miss their second straight game with foot injuries.
Many, think that being shorthanded on defense could be trouble against the Bills, who feature quarterback Bledsoe and star receiver E Moulds. Running back T Henry could miss the contest with injured ribs. Bledsoe and the rest of the Bills' offense will be looking to get back on track after getting shut down in last Sunday's 17-7 loss at Miami. The Bills managed just 118 total yards and eight first downs in losing for the first time in three games. Against the Dolphins, Bledsoe completed 10-of-25 passes for 98 yards, with two interceptions. Moulds was held to two receptions for 30 yards.
Buffalo leads the series, 5-4. The Bills posted a 26-0 victory over the Eagles in the last meeting between the teams here in 1999. Perhaps getting away from the Philly boo-birds will help. Injuries have hit Philly hard, but with two weeks to prepare for this matchup look for Andy Reid to steady the ship and for innovative defensive coordinator Jimmy Johnson to have some tricks up his sleeve, though missing safety Brian Dawkins and possibly cornerback Bobby Taylor. This is a great spot for the Eagles. Coming off a bye and back-toback home losses, the Eagles have to be extremely hungry for a win. Add Buffalo’s terrible 2-20 ATS record (11 ATS losses in a row) in the game following a Miami game and Philly’s sterling 13-5 ATS mark as road dogs and the game sets up perfectly. Remember, the Green Birds are 7-1 ATS in games off a SU favorite loss with Reid.
Projected Score: BUF Bills 17, PHI Eagles 24
PLAY 3* UNITS ON THE EAGLES +3.5
PLAY EAGLES MONEYLINE +160
[This message was edited by Sports Guru on September 25, 2003 at 02:08 PM.]
