Friday 11/11/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Indiana Hoosiers (27-8) at Kansas Jayhawks (33-5)

Date: November 11, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

HONOLULU -- Kansas must venture to Hawaii for its season opener, but anticipation over the debut of Josh Jackson will not let attention wander.

Rated as the No. 1 recruit as part of an incoming national class loaded with talent, Jackson is an addition the Jayhawks hope will enable them to reach the Final Four for the first time since 2012.

That is the biggest goal entering a season in which Kansas is expected to rule the Big 12 again and tie the all-time Division I record of 13 consecutive conference championships set by UCLA from 1967-79.

But first things first as the season begins Friday in the Armed Forces Classic against reigning Big Ten champion Indiana.

The opener will be followed by a game Tuesday against top-rated Duke at the Champions Classic in New York.

Hardly an easy start for any freshman, including Jackson, whose position is hard to define.

"I'm just easing my way in, just trying not to think about making too many mistakes," Jackson said after playing four different positions in the second of two exhibition games the Jayhawks played.

"Just going out and trying to play basketball. It's just a game. I really enjoy playing each and every position. So, coming up this year, I think you guys will see me in a bunch of different positions."

If he provides the expected impact, the No. 3 Jayhawks should be quite formidable. They return one of the most experienced set of small guards in America.

Bullish senior Frank Mason never shies away from contact underneath and came within one assist of a triple-double in the Jayhawks' first exhibition. Junior Devonte' Graham was the most outstanding player in last year's Big 12 Tournament when he was regarded as the most improved player on a 33-5 squad that bowed out in the Elite Eight against eventual NCAA champion Villanova.

Each dealt with minor ailments in exhibition games -- Mason, a jammed thumb and sore shin; Graham, with cramping.

"We have to get (Graham) to where he can play 30-plus (minutes) along with Frank. That's key for us," said Bill Self, who enters his 14th season as Kansas coach.

Indiana was a blueblood that started poorly last season. A difficult opening stretch included a 1-2 mark at the Maui Invitational and a 20-point loss to Duke in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge. Yet the Hoosiers went 15-3 in the Big Ten and finished 27-8 with a loss to eventual NCAA runner-up North Carolina in the Sweet 16.

Sophomore forward OG Anunoby came on late for the Hoosiers and should easily surpass the 13.7 minutes he averaged, while contributing in all areas.

"He's a great example," said Indiana coach Tom Crean, "of somebody that's getting better constantly, understands that it all starts with what you do with your defensive mindset and how important it is to make the game easier for everybody else."

Others must seamlessly fit into the Hoosiers' rhythmic ball movement, particularly after losing All-Big Ten point guard Yogi Ferrell.

Pittsburgh transfer Josh Newkirk will step into that spot after recovering from microfracture surgery on his knee. Crean estimates Newkirk's vertical jump has improved seven to eight inches since arriving at Indiana, then healing.

Another guard, junior James Blackmon, recovered from an injured knee that limited him to 13 games last year. He offers scoring pop. Underneath, and high expectations exist for 6-10 sophomore center Thomas Bryant, who was a 68.3 percent shooter last season.

"We don't just want to be a good offensive team," cautioned Bryant. "We want to be defensive, as well."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Nevada Wolf Pack (24-14) at Saint Mary's Gaels (29-6)

Date: November 11, 2016 11:00 PM EDT

Saint Mary's College begins the most promising season in school history with a challenging opener, a Friday night (11 p.m. ET) home contest against Nevada, another team with high hopes.

The Gaels are ranked in the Associated Press preseason poll for the first time, coming in at No. 17, and they are picked to finish second behind Gonzaga in the preseason West Coast Conference coaches poll.

It's easy to see why expectations are high.

The Gaels return all five starters from a squad that last season tied for the WCC regular-season title, beat Gonzaga twice and set a school record for wins while going 29-6.

Despite all that, St. Mary's failed to get an NCAA Tournament bid, something that seems well within reach this season.

Dealing with such high expectations is something new for the tiny school located in rural Moraga, Calif., and it's new for Randy Bennett, who is beginning his 16th season as the Gaels head coach. He is trying to avoid the big-picture possibilities and focus on the little things that got St. Mary's to this intersection.

Even as attention multiplies, the Gaels are going with their "we first" mantra.

When asked to name his No. 1 goal, Bennett said, "I think just be who we are, try to be better all the time. We're trying to stay focused as opposed to worrying about rankings."

The Gaels must stay true to their reliance on patience, sound fundamentals and excellent three-point shooting. They are not going to overwhelm anyone with athleticism.

That identity will be tested in the opener against an athletic Nevada squad that made remarkable progress last season in Eric Musselman's first year as the Wolf Pack's head coach.

Musselman, who had been the head coach of two NBA teams (Golden State and Sacramento), transformed a Nevada team that had won just nine games the year before he arrived into a 24-win team that won the College Basketball Invitational postseason tournament last season. With four starters returning, the Wolf Pack were picked by the media to finish second in the Mountain West Conference this season, behind San Diego State.

Nevada has one player who could present major problems for the Gaels - sophomore forward Cameron Oliver, who was named to the Mountain West's preseason all-conference team after averaging 13.4 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.61 blocks as a freshman.

"Obviously he had an unbelievable freshman season," said Musselman. "Cam is a great, great shot-blocker. He's an elite floor-runner. He proved last year he can knock the three down.

"Sometimes Cam doesn't know how good he can be in the post. We want to continue to throw the ball down to him in the post like we did in the CBI (when Oliver averaged 19.0 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.5 blocks in six games)."

Musselman is concerned about his team's defense, and that could be a problem against a St. Mary's team that last season led the nation in field goal percentage (50.4) and was ninth in three-point percentage (40.6).

Nearly every St. Mary's starter can shoot from long range, and Stefan Gonzalez returns after hitting 52.6 percent of his threes (40 of 76) while coming off the bench a year ago.

Three St. Mary's players -- Emmett Naar, Dan Pineau and Joe Rahon -- were named to the WCC's 10-man preseason all-conference squad. Naar and Pineau are two of the seven Australian players on the Gaels roster, which is perennially filled with players from Down Under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Army Cadets (19-14) at Oregon Ducks (31-7)

Date: November 11, 2016 11:00 PM EDT

EUGENE, Ore. - Oregon has its highest preseason ranking in history.

The Ducks are No. 5 in the Associated Press Top 25 as they prepare to open the season Friday night at home against Army. That is the same spot Oregon held ended last season before losing to Oklahoma in the Elite Eight.

The Ducks return four starters but first-team, all-conference forward Dillon Brooks will miss the start of the season after having foot surgery in September. The 6-foot-7 junior led Oregon with 16.7 points and 3.1 assists per game last season.

Until Brooks returns, sophomore guard Tyler Dorsey is Oregon's top returning scorer after averaging 13.4 points per game last season.

"We have been preparing for this moment and the hype is coming in with preseason top-five rankings," Dorsey said. "We have to focus on the season coming around and take this last week seriously. We have to get ready because the hype means nothing. Teams will come at us like Oklahoma did in the scrimmage. They were the underdog, so we need to get ready for teams like that."

Six-foot-10 center Chris Boucher set the Oregon school record with 110 blocked shots last season while averaging 12.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Point guard Casey Benson averaged 6.0 points and 3.1 assists per game.

The Ducks add senior guard Dylan Ennis, a graduate transfer from Villanova who successfully appealed for a sixth year of eligibility after missing all but two games last year due to injury.

The Ducks were picked as an overwhelming favorite to repeat as Pac-12 Conference champions, but coach Dana Altman said the team still has to live up to the hype.

"I know a lot of nice things are being said about us, we aren't anywhere near that team right now," Altman said.

Dorsey said the Ducks need to take the same attitude as last year when they were not ranked in the preseason polls, but captured their first conference crown since 2002.

"We have to look at it like we are the underdogs like last season and take the same mentality," he said. "There is going to be pressure. Being in the top-five in the country there will be a target on our back, but we have to thrive under pressure."

Oregon has a trio of shot-blockers led by Boucher and 6-9 junior Jordan Bell, who holds the school record with 147 blocks in two seasons. Kavell Bigby-Williams joined the team after averaging 5.6 blocks per game last year in junior college.

"We have great shot-blockers in the back so we know if we get blown by then there is help," Dorsey said. "It is definitely hard to score against us in the paint. If you get in there, you have to float it up high or it will get swatted. It definitely changes your shot."

The Ducks expect to start three guards with Dorsey, Benson and Ennis at least until Brooks returns, likely in late November. Bell and Boucher will round out the starting line-up with Bigby-Williams coming off the bench.

Oregon added three freshmen -- guard Payton Pritchard and forwards M.J. Cage and Keith Smith -- who will also be counted on to contribute this season.

The Ducks will be tested early with four of their first six games on the road, including a trip to Baylor on Nov. 15. Oregon is at the Maui Invitational from Nov. 21-23.

"My expectations are always high for our team," Altman said. "I want them to play our best and we are not playing anywhere near our best. They are not wanting to take care of the details of the game and fundamentals. It is a simple game, the game doesn't change, and right now we are not taking care of the things we need to take care of."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Friday’s top 13 games– not a lot of info early on. I’m giving you what I have.
Clemson is back home in remodeled ($63.5M) Littlejohn Coliseum this year. Georgia hammered Tigers 71-48 LY; game was 39-24 at half. Dawgs shot 65% for game, have 8 of top 10 guys back from LY. Both teams have 3 of 5 starters back; Clemson has ???’s at point guard. LY, ACC teams were 12-8 vs SEC squads- they were 5-4 vs spread when favored.

James Madison-Old Dominion used to be CAA rivals but haven’t met since ODU jumped leagues for football reasons. JMU won last two meetings- they fired coach Brady LY after a 21-11 year that saw them lose in 1st round of CAA tourney. Dukes have 4 starters back from LY. Monarchs lost top 2 scorers from LY but their other three starters are back.

Temple had already lost three of top four scorers from LY when they lost two more guards to injury after season, including their starting PG; they’re young, thin now. Owls won 10 of last 11 games with city rival LaSalle, winning last two by 1-13 points. Explorers have four starters back plus three transfers eligible but they were 9-22 LY.

Cal-Irvine won 73-63 at Utah State LY; 7-6 Ndiaye had 4 blocked shots, but he is gone now and Anteaters are much younger this year, with only one starter back from 28-10 team. Utah State has seven new guys after T8 finish in 11-team Mountain West LY. Last year, Mountain West teams were 6-5 against the Big West, 2-1 vs spread when the underdog.

Saint Mary’s has its whole team back from LY and is a top 20 preseason team nationally; Gaels missed out on NCAAs despite being 27-5 on Selection Sunday- their non-conference schedule was #203 of 351. Nevada won CBI LY; they’ve got 4 starters back, plus 3 transfers eligible as former NBA coach Musselman stocks his shelves. Wolf Pack was 24-14 in his first year LY.

San Diego State missed NCAAs LY and big part of reason was 53-48 loss to San Diego, game that was played outdoors at Petco Park- loss ended 9-game series win streak for Aztecs, with three of last four series wins by 12 or less points. Aztecs have 3 starters back, will try to play faster. USD had 5 kids transfer/run off- they have only one junior and one senior. MW teams were 10-4 vs WCC LY, 2-2 vs spread when the underdog.

Harvard-Stanford is in China, for whatever reason. Harvard has its PG back he missed LY with a bum knee;* they also had solid recruiting class. Stanford has new coach, former UAB coach Haase; Cardinal has 4 starters back but their best player left. Stanford will need its freshmen to be solid contributors to have a successful season. Pac-12 won/covered three games with Ivy League LY, winning by 37-14-12 points.

Vanderbilt changed coaches, lost 2 transfers and are unsure about who their PG is, but they do have 3 starters back from LY. Marquette has 4 starters back and is expected to play small a lot this year- they’re 33-32 in Wojo’s first two years as head coach. Vandy was 66-54 in SEC play last 7 years; they’ll miss Stallings. Big East teams were 8-2 vs SEC LY, 2-2 when the underdog.

Arizona is apparently down to 7 scholarship players with SF Trier (eligiblity ?’s) not making trip to Hawai’i. Wildcats are reloading with top 4 scorers from LY not here- they’re still talented, but not as deep/experienced as usual. Michigan State brought in three good freshmen, has a junior PG, young team- they head to NYC after this to play Kentucky. Izzo teams are usually way better in March than November.

Kansas lost six guys from LY but reloaded and is a top 5 preseason team. they do have three starters back from LY. Indiana lost 2 of top 3 scorers but good a transfer PG from Pitt plus their big guy Bryant shunned NBA to come back, which helps. Hoosiers have only one senior, but have 3 starters back from LY. Big 14 teams were only 2-6 vs Big X LY, 2-3 vs spread when they were the underdog.

Tennessee has 7 freshman; they’re more talented, deeper but way younger than they’ve been in a while. Vols were 31-35 the last two years. Chattanooga was 29-6 LY, losing to Indiana in NCAAs; they’ve got a senior PG, 5 new guys- this game will mean lot more to them than the Tennessee kids. SEC teams were 4-1 vs SoCon teams LY, 3-2 vs spread (all as favorites).

South Dakota State’s coach left after 21 years last spring to go to Wright State ($500K/year); Jackrabbits have 2 starters back from a 26-8 team that lost to Maryland by 5 in NCAA’s last year. California got NBA prospect Rabb back after he shunned NBA, a huge break for them. Bears are deep at guard, might lack for 3-point shooting. Pac-12 teams were 2-0 vs Summit teams LY, but didn’t cover either game.

USC made NCAAs LY for first time in 5 years but because of attrition now have only 2 juniors, 1 senior on squad. Trojans are expected to regress some this year. Montana has 4 starters back f54.1 pts/game) from LY’s team- Griz have gone 28-8 in Big Sky last two years but lost in finals of conference tourney both times. Pac-12 teams were 9-2 vs Big Sky LY, 6-5 vs spread.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

ACC Report - Week 11
By Joe Williams

2016 ACC STANDINGS
Team SU Conference ATS Over/Under
Boston College 4-5 1-5 3-5-1 3-6
Clemson 9-0 6-0 5-4 3-6
Duke 3-6 0-5 6-3 2-7
Florida State 6-3 3-3 4-4 4-4
Georgia Tech 5-4 2-4 3-4-1 5-2-1
Louisville 8-1 6-1 5-3-1 7-2
Miami (Fla.) 5-4 2-3 5-4 5-4
North Carolina 7-2 5-1 6-3 4-5
North Carolina State 4-5 1-4 6-3 4-4-1
Pittsburgh 5-4 2-3 3-6 8-1
Syracuse 4-5 2-3 4-5 2-7
Virginia 2-7 1-4 4-4-1 3-5-1
Virginia Tech 7-2 5-1 4-5 5-4
Wake Forest 6-3 3-2 5-4 4-5

Boston College at Florida State (Fri. - ESPN2, 7:30 p.m. ET)
Boston College heads down to Tallahassee to battle a Florida State team which is favored by three touchdowns. The Eagles were riding high after a 21-14 win at N.C. State two weeks ago, but they were smacked back down to Earth with a 52-7 home loss to Louisville last weekend. FSU narrowly defeated the Wolfpack last week in Raleigh, and look to avoid their third loss in the four home games for the 'Noles. The 'under' is 4-1 in the past five for FSU, and 4-0 in their past four Friday appearances. The 'under' is 41-16-1 in the past 58 road games for the Eagles, and 6-1-1 in his past eight Friday appearances. The under is also 33-16-2 in their past 51 against teams with a winning overall record.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Boston College at FSU
By Brian Edwards

Florida State isn’t in the mix for an ACC Championship or a berth in the College Football Playoff, but it certainly wants to finish strong in what has been a disappointing campaign to date. The Seminoles will look to avoid a fourth loss when they host Boston College on Friday night at Doak Campbell Stadium.

As of Wednesday night, most betting shops had FSU installed as a 21-point favorite with a total of 48.5 points. Gamblers could take the Eagles on the money line for a sweet +850 payout (risk $100 to win $850).

FSU (6-3 straight up, 4-4 against the spread) has limped to a 2-2 SU record and a 1-2 ATS mark at home this year. This is just the second time the Seminoles have lost twice at home in the same season since Jimbo Fisher took over in 2010. They saw a 22-game home winning streak snapped in Week 5 when North Carolina came to Tallahassee and emerged with a 37-35 win thanks to a walk-off field goal from 54 yards out.

Since then, Fisher’s seventh team at FSU has once again gone down at home, where Clemson captured a 37-34 victory two weeks ago. Despite the setback, FSU took the cash as a 4.5-point home underdog. Dalvin Cook enjoyed a monster night against the Tigers, rushing for 169 yards and four touchdowns on just 19 attempts.

Cook’s 70-yard TD scamper put his team in front 28-20 going into the final stanza. However, Clemson answered with an early fourth-quarter TD to trim the deficit to two, and then it took a 29-28 advantage on a 46-yard Greg Huegel field goal with 5:25 remaining. Cook’s eight-yard TD run with 3:23 left staked FSU to a 34-29 lead after the two-point conversion failed.

But the defense couldn’t close the deal. Deshaun Watson found Jordan Leggett with a 34-yard scoring strike at the 2:06 mark and the Clemson defense secured the victory with a subsequent stop.

In bounce-back mode last week at North Carolina State, FSU trailed for most of the game but was able to pull out a 24-20 victory. The Wolfpack covered the number as a 6.5-point home ‘dog, while the 44 combined points stayed ‘under’ the 58-point tally.

Cook was limited to 65 rushing yards and one TD on 18 carries, but freshman QB Deondre Francois came though in the clutch. Francois, who completed 22-of-39 passes for 330 yards and one TD without an interception, found Travis Rudolph for a 19-yard TD pass with 3:09 left to lift his team to victory. Nyqwan Murray had nine receptions for 153 yards, but the ‘Noles were fortunate to win after losing the yardage battle by a 463-393 margin.

Cook has rushed for 1,134 yards to move into second place on the school’s all-time rushing list behind only Warrick Dunn. Cook needs only 127 rushing yards to surpass Dunn’s total of 3,959 yards. He has rushed for 12 TDs while averaging 5.8 yards per carry. Cook also has 25 receptions for 388 yards and one TD.

Francois has established himself as the QB of the present and future. He has connected on 60.0 percent of his passes for 2,492 yards with a 12/4 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Francois has also rushed for three TDs.

His favorite target is Rudolph, who has 38 catches for 599 yards and four TDs. Jesus ‘Bobo’ Wilson is FSU’s second-leading receiver with 30 grabs for 390 yards and one TD, but the senior wideout was injured in a 17-6 home win over Wake Forest on Oct. 15. The foot injury is expected to keep him out for the rest of the season.

FSU owns a 23-18-1 spread record in 42 games as a home favorite on Fisher’s watch. Meanwhile, Boston College has compiled a 7-3-1 ATS mark in 11 games as a road underdog during Steve Addazio’s four-year tenure.

FSU is fielding its worst defense since 2009 when it allowed 30.0 points per game in Bobby Bowden’s last year at the helm. Through nine games, the Seminoles are ranked No. 73 in the nation in scoring defense (28.8 PPG). They are No. 95 out of 128 FBS teams in pass defense.

The secondary has greatly missed the presence of sophomore safety Derwin James, who tore his meniscus in Week 2 and hasn’t played since then. James had already recorded 11 tackles and one interception before going down. Also, starting senior safety Nate Andrews has been out since early October due to pectoral injury. Andrews had produced 18 tackles and one interception through four games.

The FSU defense is led by senior DE DeMarcus Walker, who has 51 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, three QB hurries, one blocked kick and two passes broken up.

Boston College (4-5 SU, 3-5-1 ATS) went bowling in its first two seasons under Addazio, only to have all sorts of QB injuries and limp to a 3-9 record in 2015. BC lost five one-possession games by 14 combined points last year, wasting a season in which its defense held foes to a meager 15.3 PPG.

The defense hasn’t been as stout this year, but the stop unit has still played well. The Eagles are ranked No. 14 in the country in total defense and eighth against the run, but they remain horrendous on the other side of the ball. They are No. 126 of 128 FBS teams in total offense and No. 122 in scoring (19.4 PPG).

BC has wins at UMass (26-7), vs. Wagner (42-10), vs. Buffalo (35-3) and at N.C. State (21-14). The Eagles were destroyed at Virginia Tech (49-0), vs. Clemson (56-10) and vs. Louisville last weekend (52-7). They’ve also dropped a pair of one-possession games vs. Georgia Tech (17-14 in Dublin, Ireland) and vs. Syracuse (28-20).

U of L raced out to a 38-0 halftime lead at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill last Saturday. The Cardinals easily took the money as 24.5-point road ‘chalk,’ while the 59 combined points jumped ‘over’ the 52-point tally on Lamar Jackson’s third rushing TD with 1:57 remaining in the third quarter.

Jackson produced video-game numbers against the BC defense. The Heisman Trophy favorite threw for 231 yards and four TDs. Jackson also had 185 rushing yards on only 15 totes.

BC senior QB Patrick Towles, a grad transfer from Kentucky, completed 13-of-21 passes for 147 yards with one TD and one interception. For the season, Towles has completed just 51.0 percent of his passes for 1,293 yards with an 8/6 TD-INT ratio. He has rushed for 250 yards and four TDs.

The ground game has been basically non-existent for the Eagles. Jon Hilliman has rushed for a team-best 432 yards and five TDs, but he’s averaging a pedestrian 3.3 YPC. His 102-yard effort in the opener against Georgia Tech has been the lone time he’s surpassed 74 rushing yards versus an ACC foe.

Since the ‘over’ cashed in its first three games, FSU has seen the ‘under’ hit at a 4-1 clip in its last five contests. The ‘under’ is 2-1 for the ‘Noles in their three lined home outings. They have seen their games average combined scores of 62.3 PPG.

The ‘under’ is 6-3 overall for BC, 2-1 in its three true road assignments. The Eagles have seen their games average combined scores of 45.7 PPG.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.


**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

-- FSU true freshman DE Brian Burns has had an excellent debut season, but he’s suspended for the first half against BC due to a targeting penalty in the second half of last week’s win in Raleigh. Burns has recorded 12 tackles, five TFL’s, four sacks, one forced fumble and one QB hurry.

-- Georgia Tech has suspended RB Dedrick Mills for the next two games. Mills has rushed for 578 yards and 11 TDs this year. He is eligible to return for the regular-season finale at Georgia.

-- Sportsbooks have updated its Games of the Year spreads. These contests include Louisville -10.5 at Houston, Stanford -6.5 at California, Texas -3 vs. TCU, Washington -7.5 at Washington St., FSU -7 vs. Florida, Ohio St. -4.5 vs. Michigan, Alabama -14 vs. Auburn, USC -17 vs. Notre Dame, Oklahoma -11 vs. Oklahoma State and Navy -7 vs. Army.

-- Alabama’s stock apparently took a hit in its 10-0 win over LSU. I say that because the oddsmakers have adjusted their lines for potential championship matchups. The Crimson Tide was a double-digit ‘chalk’ to every team except Michigan two weeks ago. At that time, Alabama was a 9.5-point ‘chalk’ vs. the Wolverines. Now the Tide is favored by 7.5 vs. Ohio State, 10 vs. Michigan, 8 vs. Clemson, 10 vs. Washington and 7.5 vs. Louisville.

-- Dabo Swinney announced Wednesday that four underclassmen are going pro after this year and will get to participate in Senior Day against South Carolina at Death Valley on Nov. 26. Those players include Watson, Wayne Gallman, Mike Williams and Artavis Scott.

-- Though Middle Tennessee is holding out hope that he can return for a bowl game, sophomore quarterback Brent Stockstill will miss at least the last three regular-season games after breaking his collarbone in a 45-25 home loss UTSA in Week 10. Stockstill, the C-USA Freshman of the Year and a third-team All C-USA selection as a freshman in 2015, threw for 2,801 yards with a 27/5 TD-INT ratio in the Blue Raiders’ first nine games. The head coach’s son has a 57/14 TD-INT ratio in his first two seasons.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview:Boston College Eagles (4-5) at Florida State Seminoles (6-3)

Date: November 11, 2016 7:30 PM EDT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- It's going to be a historic night at Doak Campbell Stadium on Friday when Florida State and Boston College face off.

Just how historic remains to be seen.

For starters, the Seminoles, who moved up four spots to No. 18 in the College Football Playoff rankings released Tuesday night, will be hosting a Friday game in Tallahassee for only the second time -- and the first since 1957.

But the history that Seminole fans are no doubt hoping to witness -- and Eagles fans no doubt hoping their team doesn't become a footnote to -- is Dalvin Cook's continued quest of Florida State's all-time rushing record.

With 3,833 yards through three seasons, the junior from Miami is now 127 yards away from breaking the 20-year-old record held by running back Warrick Dunn. And, ironically, Cook averages 126 per game.

So, yeah ... stay tuned.

And if you're a member of Boston College's defense, better stay alert.

"Dalvin Cook I think is one of the better running backs in the country," Eagles coach Steve Addazio said Monday. "We obviously know Dalvin well. He has 196 carries, for 1,134 yards, 5.8 average, 12 touchdowns, 25 catches. He's their marquee guy. This will be a great challenge for us. I'm looking forward to this week."

Cook hasn't run wild on Boston College (4-5, 1-4 ACC) during his three years at Florida State (6-3, 3-3) like he has against other teams. Last year, during the Seminoles' 14-0 shutout win in Chestnut Hill, Mass. -- also on a Friday night -- the Eagles' then-No. 1 ranked defense held Cook to a season-low 54 yards. And In 2014, Boston College limited Cook to 76 yards during the Seminoles' 20-17 victory.

So, yes, Cook -- who has rushed for 100-plus yards in five of his last six games -- may very well get the coveted school rushing record Friday night.

But, no, Boston College is not afraid of the Heisman Trophy candidate one bit.

"They are going to play you tough and physical, every week, even when they have been defeated," said Florida State head coach Jimbo Fisher, who is 6-0 against Boston College since taking over in 2010. "Their up-front people play great and they play tremendous leverage. Set edges on the defense, play inside their hands real well. Technique very physical. Big, strong, physical guys. Play the box real well. Play a lot of man with big, long, lanky secondary people. Tackle very well in space. Hit you very well. (Addazio) does a very good job with them."

Fisher, too, has done a good job in his seventh year at the helm -- but by his own lofty standards he set for the program, he would undoubtedly consider those efforts not great.

In the last three seasons, Florida State's meeting with Boston College was to keep the Seminoles' ACC Championship hopes alive. But with three losses -- all to ACC opponents -- those titles hopes are well out the window now. A porous defense -- ranked 73rd in total defense out of 128 FBS programs -- is mostly to blame for the team's struggles, resembling nothing like that of the 2013 unit which sent all 11 starters to the NFL.

In fact, in two of Florida State's three losses, the Seminoles had a lead with four minute or less to play and the defense simply could not hold it.

"Discipline (is how we can improve)," Fisher said of his team's defensive struggles. "I mean, just keep staying on guys and coaching the heck out of them, just like we do in practice."

The good news for the Seminoles -- 21-point favorites against the Eagles -- is that their defense has looked good against mediocre offensive teams. And Boston College (ranked 126th in the nation in total offense) is certainly that. Florida State held Miami to its lowest rushing total of the season in Week 6 and the defense didn't allow a touchdown against Wake Forest (for the third straight season) a week later.

But two weeks ago, the defense regressed, allowing 37 points at home against Clemson, then putting its offense in a late hole last week against N.C. State before the Seminoles came back to win 24-20.

Boston College, meanwhile, is coming off a 52-7 home shellacking by No. 6 Louisville -- a loss not too dissimilar from Florida State's 63-20 defeat at the hands of the Cardinals earlier this year.

Addazio said that he believes those types of results are indicative not of Boston College or Florida State going through down years, but rather that ACC 2.0 is suddenly really, really good.

"I mean, we're playing -- we have elite teams in this conference," said Addazio, who's 21-26 in his fifth season with the Eagles. "I think more in our conference than in some of the other conferences. Every conference has got an elite team, but we have a series of them (this year)."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAF Game of the Day: Boston College at Florida State

Boston College at No.18 Florida State (-21, 48.5)

Junior Dalvin Cook has a chance to become Florida State’s all-time leading rusher when the 18th-ranked Seminoles host Boston College on Friday night in an ACC matchup. Cook needs 127 yards to pass Warrick Dunn (3,959) for the top spot in Florida State history after being held to 65 in last week’s 24-20 come-from-behind victory at North Carolina State.

Cook won’t have it easy against a Boston College defense which ranks second in the league against the run (106.6 yards), but Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher told reporters his team is playing hard despite being out of contention for the College Football Playoff and the ACC title game. “They still believe in each other, believe in what we’re doing and they believe in this program,” Fisher said. “And they want to be part of history and what this program has meant in the past. I think that carries them today. There’s a lot of pride in this group.” Boston College still has a chance to get a bowl bid after last week’s 52-7 loss to No. 6 Louisville at home and a strong performance in Tallahassee would go a long way toward sealing it. Eagles coach Steve Addazio told reporters he likes his team’s attitude and demeanor as it approaches the final three games, which include battles with Connecticut and Wake Forest.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2.

LINE HISTORY: The Seminoles opened the week as 21-point home favorites and that number hasn’t moved all week. The total hit the board at 48.5 and has held steady.

INJURY REPORT:

Boston College - LB Connor Strachan (questionable, shoulder)

Florida State - DB Trey Marshall (questionable, concussion), DT Adam Torres (questionable, foot), OL Corey Martinez (questionable, knee), DT Darvin Taylor II (questionable, shoulder), RB Johnathan Vickers (questionable, concussion), OL Derrick Kelly (questionable, undisclosed), DE Brian Burns (questionable, suspension), TE Jalen Wilkerson (questionable, concussion), DB Derwin James (out for season, knee), WR Jesus Wilson (out for season, foot)

WEATHER REPORT: It looks like a perfect night for football in Tallahassee. The forecast is calling for clear skies, negligible wind and temperatures at kick off in the mid 60’s.

ABOUT BOSTON COLLEGE (4-5 SU, 3-5-1 ATS, 3-6 O/U): The Eagles could not follow up their first ACC victory against N.C. State versus Louisville, allowing Heisman Trophy candidate Lamar Jackson 416 total yards. Boston College is 15th in the nation in total defense and eighth against the run, but its offense is still a work in progress. Quarterback Patrick Towles has completed only 51 percent of his passes, the Eagles are 88th in the nation in rushing yards and sophomore Michael Walker is the only receiver with at least 20 catches (24 for 281 yards).

ABOUT FLORIDA STATE (6-3 SU, 4-4 ATS, 4-4 OU): Fisher announced Monday that senior receiver Jesus Wilson will undergo foot surgery and is out for the rest of the season while sophomore Nyqwan Murray has stepped up with 15 catches and 249 yards the last two weeks. “There’s still a lot he can really clean up and he knows that,” Fisher told reporters of Murray. “… But I’m going to tell you, he has a chance to be a very good player.” Freshman quarterback Deondre Francois, who has been sacked 26 times, completes 60 percent of his passes and owns only four interceptions.

TRENDS:

Eagles are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Eagles are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games on grass.
Seminoles are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS loss.
Under is 9-1 in Seminoles last 10 games in November.
Eagles are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings in Florida State.

CONSENSUS: The public is favouring the double digit home favorite at a rate of 67 percent and the over is getting more action a rate of 62 percent.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAF

Friday’s game

Four of last five Florida State games were decided by 4 or less points; Seminoles are 2-4 vs spread as a favorite this year, 0-2 at home- they’re 6-10-1 in last 17 games as a home favorite, and lost SU in two of last three home games, to UNC/Clemson. FSU won its last six games vs Boston College (3-3 vs spread), winning last three by 14-3-14 points. Eagles lost three of last four games, losing 52-7 to Louisville (38-0 at half), 56-10 to Clemson (21-3 at half). BC is 6-1-1 in is last eight games as a road underdog, 1-1 this year- they’re 12-10-1 as an underdog under Addazio. ACC home favorites are 10-13 vs spread.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Tech Trends - Week 11
By Bruce Marshall

Friday, Nov. 11

BOSTON COLLEGE at FLORIDA STATE... Eagles 6-1-1 as visiting dog since 2014 in Addazio’s best role with BC. Jimbo 0-3 as Doak Campbell chalk this season, 6-11 in role since 2014.

BC, based on team trends.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Friday
By Mike Dempsey

Coming up on Saturday at Aqueduct we have a pair of great betting races—the $200,000 Red Smith Handicap (G3) and the $150,000 Discovery (G3) both which drew large and competitive fields.

A field of 11 will go in the Red Smith, which is the last graded stakes race on turf in New York in 2016. Wake Forest is the 8-5 morning line favorite.

The Chad Brown trainee won the Man O’ War (G1) at Belmont Park back in May but has lost four starts since, most recently a third-place finish in the Canadian International (G1) at Woodbine.

The Graham Motion trained Messi did not fire his best when shipped to Santa Anita for the John Henry (G2) last out where he tired to finish 10th. He won four of his first eight starts after landing in the U.S. including the Sky Classic (G2) and Knickerbocker (G3).

The Discovery drew a solid group of 11 three-year-olds in one of the few remaining races restricted to the division.

Brown sends out the duo of Gift Box, who was fourth in the Travers (G1) in his last outing and My Man Sam, who was sixth in the Travers and then ran fourth in the Pennsylvania Derby (G2).

Adulator earned a 100 Beyer in a runner up finish against second level optional claimers and Governor Malibu figures to take some betting action off his runner up finish in the state bred Empire Classic in his last outing.

First we need to make some dough on Friday’s nine race card at the Big A. The card gets off on the slow side with a pair of six horse fields followed by a five-horse field and then six, but the remainder of the card offers us some good betting opportunities.


Here is the opening race from Aqueduct to get the day off to a good start:

AQU Race 1 Md $20,000 (12:20 ET)
#1 Beverly Mine 2-1
#6 Causeway Cutie 6-1
#5 Smart Alex 8-5
#2 Ocean Conquest 12-1

Analysis: Beverly Mine caught a sloppy track and Chorus Line, who went on to win by 23 1/4 lengths and then came back to beat $50,000 starter allowance company in her next outing on Nov. 4 here by eight lengths. She caught a muddy track two back in her debut, checking in fifth against maiden special eight company. She figures to shake loose early here breaking from the inside.

Causeway Cutie tracked the early pace, came with a four wide bid and weakened late to finish fourth going a mile back in June. The winner, third and fifth place finisher all exited that race to win next out. The blinkers come off and she gets a jock upgrade here from Davis to Cancel.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 1,6 / 1,5,6
TRI: no play

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Aqueduct:

AQU Race 7 OClm $80,000N1X (3:17 ET)
#1 Annie Rocks / 1a Island Reward 3-1
#7 Kentucky Road 6-1
#9 Vagabond 7-2
#3 Ultimate Cause 6-1

Analysis: Annie Rocks beat $50,000 starter allowance foes last out in a game effort in her first start off the claim by the Servis barn. The third place finisher Khaleesi Kat came back to beat $50,000 starter allowance foes here in her next start on Nov. 6. She has won 2 of 3 on turf and looks like a good fit in this spot. Entrymate Island Reward makes her first start since June where the filly was third at this level in her first start against winners. She broke her maiden two back at Churchill Downs going a mile. She makes her first start here for the Brown barn that is 26% winners with runners coming back off a 61-180 day layoff.

Kentucky Road was not a threat in a fifth place finish last out in her first start off the claim by the Maker barn. The filly was beaten just a neck two back for a $40,000 tag at Belmont Park. She caught soft ground last out and she shown she is better on firmer footing which she will get today. Gallardo takes the call and the 6-1 morning line looks fair enough.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 1,7 / 1,3,7,9
TRI: 1,7 / 1,3,7,9 / 1,2,3,7,9

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Aqueduct
R1: #2 Ocean Conquest 12-1
R2: #4 Fly Ash 8-1
R4: #5 New Road 15-1
R8: #2 Major League 8-1
R9: #3 Amiliana’s Hope 10-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Cal-Expo

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 8 - Post: 8:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 71 - Purse:$2400 - NON-WINNERS OF $750
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 1 LIFE SIGNATURE 6/5
# 7 SETTLEMENT REQUEST 9/1
# 6 FRANKTHEBANK 4/1

All signs point to LIFE SIGNATURE for the contender. Can't miss based on speed figs which have been outstanding (79 avg) recently. Clearly the class of the field of horses with an average rating of 82. A nice choice. Kennedy and Graham have a great working relationship. Outstanding results from their outings. SETTLEMENT REQUEST - Positive feel - running well enough to contend in this contest. FRANKTHEBANK - Could be considered in this event if only for the formidable TrackMaster Speed Rating achieved in the most recent outing.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Century Downs

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 9 - Post: 2:50 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 72 - Purse:$7800 - HCP NW 4 RACES OR 23,500 LIFE
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 6 CLASSY ARTIST 3/1
# 9 PTSMAGICMARK 8/1
# 1 GRAY ZEE 9/2

CLASSY ARTIST looks very nice to best this group. Not many knocks against this standardbred, let's give him a shot. Feel the need for speed, this horse has been turning in some fantastic TrackMaster Speed Ratings averaging around 76. Had one of the most favorable speed figs of the race in his last contest. Must use in your wagers. PTSMAGICMARK - The panel of smart guys can't help but favor this fine animal because the internal pace numbers fit well here at Century Downs. The better than average ROI for horses starting from the 9 position makes this harness racer a terrific bet. GRAY ZEE - When Lamont sends this entrant out you can bet they'll hit the board, percentages show them there 61 percent of the time. Is a huge win contender given the 68 TrackMaster SR from his most recent competition.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero Race Track

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 8 - Allowance - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $15325 Class Rating: 85

FOR NATIVE THREE YEAR OLDS. WEIGHT, 118 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 11, 2016 ALLOWED 1 LBS. A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 11, 2016 ALLOWED 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 1 CONCERTO BELLO 1/1

# 3 INGENIERO A 2/1

# 2 NABORI 15/1

I've got to go with CONCERTO BELLO. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Morales running at this distance are the best in this field. Morales has him trained quite well to break promptly out of the starting gate. Will make a good showing versus this field. INGENIERO A - His 72 average has this gelding with among the strongest speed figs for this event. Will almost certainly compete well in the early speed contest which bodes well with this group. NABORI - Will make a good showing versus this field.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park West

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 10 - Claiming - 7.5f on the Turf. Purse: $15000 Class Rating: 97

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 11 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $8,000


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 9 DOMINATE 6/1

# 4 JOES BLAZING AARON 4/1

# 2 TEQUESTA STORM 6/1

DOMINATE looks like the bet in here. JOES BLAZING AARON - The average class fig alone makes this entrant a definite contender. His 96 average has this gelding with among the strongest speed figures in this competition. TEQUESTA STORM - Will almost certainly come out very solid - I have liked the way this gelding has moved quickly to the lead recently. I like the rider on this gelding - decent chance to win the race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Churchill Downs - Race #6 - Post: 3:30pm - Claiming - 8.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $20,000 Class Rating: 87

Rating:

#8 READY IF YOU ARE (ML=6/1)
#1 RED BLUE AND TRUE (ML=15/1)


READY IF YOU ARE - Have to give this gelding a shot. Ran a strong outing last time around the track within the last 30 days. Taking this jock/conditioner combination is a smart choice. Coming off a fourth place finish at Indiana Downs, some may skip this horse. I'm not. He just missed hitting the show spot, and has pretty decent morning line odds today. RED BLUE AND TRUE - The return on investment when Osorio and Duvall team up is good.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 FRENCHMAN BAY (ML=5/2), #4 CALIFORNIA COAST (ML=4/1), #7 DOGTOWN (ML=5/1),

FRENCHMAN BAY - This favorite hasn't been to the track in awhile. No drills since last race. When looking at today's Equibase class figure, he will have to earn a much better speed fig than last out to compete in this dirt route. CALIFORNIA COAST - This gelding finished out of the money on August 26th and wasn't close last out either. DOGTOWN - Hasn't been close to winning at all lately.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:

#8 READY IF YOU ARE to win at post-time odds of 2/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [1,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Golden Gate Fields - Race #1 - Post: 12:45pm - Maiden Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $9,000 Class Rating: 81

Rating:

#6 MACHO MARINI (ML=7/2)
#4 JACKSON TELLER (ML=9/2)


MACHO MARINI - The 'x-factor' at work here is that this gelding has been working over this track getting ready for his first start. This jock and trainer's horses have been producing a beneficial ROI. Going on Lasix for the first time. While a general handicapping angle, it's still quite useful. JACKSON TELLER - Larson adds Lasix to this one today. I'd look for an increased ability.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 RUNN'N REBEL (ML=2/1), #3 LULLABY'S ORPHAN (ML=5/2), #1 SECRET REVEALED (ML=8/1),

RUNN'N REBEL - Garnered a common speed rating in the last race in a $12,500 Maiden Claiming race on Oct 21st. Unlikely to see an improved performance off of that fig. LULLABY'S ORPHAN - Difficult to wager on any racer in a sprint affair at 5/2 when he hasn't shown any positive results in sprints in the last 60 days. That was just not a very good exhibition in the last event. SECRET REVEALED - Hasn't finished in the money in any short distance races of late. Unlikely to see him doing it this time around either. Don't feel this runner will make a winning move today. That last speed figure was mediocre when compared with today's Equibase class figure.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Putting our cash on #6 MACHO MARINI to win. Have to have odds of at least 7/5 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [4,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct

RACE #2 - AQUEDUCT - 12:49 PM EASTERN POST

8.0 FURLONGS DIRT FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD $16,000.00 CLAIMING $27,000.00 PURSE

#3 DREAM ON
#2 ARGYLE GAL
#4 FLY ASH
#6 SHOPPINGFORSILVER

#3 DREAM ON takes a class drop (-3), and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in each of her last five outings, hitting the board in three, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in her 5th race back. #2 ARGYLE GAL has hit the board in two of her respective last three "adventures," winning in her last start. Jockey Irad Ortiz was in her irons for that win which produced a +385% return on investment in the process, and Ortiz is back this afternoon here in Ozone Park for his 2nd ride, gunning for back-to-back "Circle Trips!"

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Friday 11/11 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $40,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

PICK 5: 5,6,7,8/2,5/2,3/4,5,7/1,2 = $19.20

EARLY PICK 4: 4,5,7/1,2/2,3,5,7/7,8,10 = $72

LATE PICK 4: 2,7/2,5,7/8,9/6,8,10 = $36

MEET STATS: 0 - 0 / $0.00 BEST BETS: 0 – 0 / $0.00

SPOT PLAYS: 0 – 0 / $0.00

Best Bet: GRANA PADANNO (3rd)

Spot Play: TORI HANOVER (4th)


Race 1

(5) MASERATI SEELSTER faces considerably easier here dropping out of a claiming handicap and he should get put into play early; top call in the opener. (7) ACEFORTYFOURTALON also moves into a conditioned claimer off a decent effort in a handicap; using. (6) THINK AGAIN has a poor win record but he's been racing decently of late and isn't impossible here. (8) LOOKIN AT A WINNER flashed much better late speed last week and he is another that can win this with the right trip.

Race 2

(2) IDYLLIC BEACH's potent early speed, driver and post are all factors that give her the edge here. (5) SOMEOMENSOMEWHERE has caught fire the past few weeks and she is an obvious threat again. (1) BETTORS UP rarely misses the board and she should make the ticket here, too. (4) ROCKETTE will be passing rivals late for a smaller share here.

Race 3

(2) GRANA PADANNO should be tough here taking a sizable class drop and getting a good post to work from. (3) OLYMPIC SON is capable of leaving much quicker than he has been and if he does, he should be a big threat here. (6) HARPER BLUE CHIP rallied strongly into a slowing late pace last week. He is getting closer to the elusive first win of the year now. (4) SECOND SISTER can sit a good trip near the front and share here.

Race 4

(7) TORI HANOVER should be driven much more aggressively here by Zeron facing easier; top call. (4) CAVIART ALLY tends to finish second frequently, but she is one of the best in here and could take a win with a decent trip. (5) THAT'S THE TICKET should also be laying closer early here exiting the Breeders Crown final; using. (1) CANDLELIGHT DINNER was badly off form when she was laid up in September. She will have to be seen once.

Race 5

(1) REQUEST FOR PAROLE gutted out a win in this class last time and she should be tough here right back while looking for her third straight win. (2) BET YA did a lot of the work in the choice's winning mile and she faded a bit late. A slightly easier trip puts her right there. (10) SELLING THE DREAM is as sharp as they come, but she will likely be fighting for scraps here leaving from the outside. (4) PARTY IN ROME is another that did much of the work last time.

Race 6

(7) SNOWSTORM HANOVER should be aggressively driven here starting from an outer post and has a great chance of doubling up. (3) WHISKEY LINDY should be a big threat from close range here if he stays flat. (5) SEVEN AND SEVEN - the local hope - has to be considered, even coming off the shelf, based on his excellent season so far. (2) INTERNATIONAL MONI can sit a good trip here and take a share if he stays flat this time.

Race 7

(10) TRUE REFLECTION takes a plunge in class and picks up Tetrick here. She deserves top billing, but beware taking too short of a price keeping the 10-hole in mind. (8) KISS ME OR NOT races better from on or near the lead. Maybe she gets sent tonight. (7) SHELLYSSILVERMOON raced decently last time after 48 days. Keep her in mind when you fill out your Pick 4 tickets. (6) DOCS HOLLYWOOD is famous for taking slices. She could hit the ticket at a price here off the layoff.

Race 8

(7) MOONSHINER HANOVER was no match for the best rookie trotter on the continent in the Breeders Crown, but, he should be tough here. (2) WHAT THE HILL wasn't far behind the choice in that mile and he should be the main danger leaving from a good post. (5) LINDY THE GREAT is in sharp form and he could trip out here close to the pace; beware. (6) DANCER HALL has been beating his elders regularly locally but he will need to find another gear to go with some of these.

Race 9

(2) SANDBETWEENURTOES rallied sharply late to win last week and now that she returns again on a 7-day cycle, she can double up here. (7) IMAGINE DRAGON comes off a rapid win down south and she will no doubt be sent hard early off the gate here; the main danger. (5) DELIGHTFUL HILL has been known to spring an upset in this class if she can land in the pocket early; toss her on Pick 4 tickets. (6) ROCK N ROLL XAMPLE looks best of the rest and she should share here.

Race 10

(9) ACEFOURTYFOUR ALEX gets reclassified here and she will likely attract a claim, so expect an aggressive drive. (8) CHARMING HILL is in sharp form racing in this class and can't be ignored here. (7) BONNIES GEM merits a look dropping out of the same race as the choice. (1) MONEY MAGIC can rally again for a share as she did last time.

Race 11

(10) WHISTYS PARADISE got stacked up on way too much cover last time. She could take this at a price with a better trip and has won at this track frequently in the past. (8) MAPLELEA should benefit from a solid early pace here. (6) VOODOO CHARM figures to take a share racing from close range here. (2) CANT STOP should take these a long way and stick around for a piece. (1) MISS COCO LUCK likes this track and she can improve here and take a small slice.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 11/11 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 25 - 53 / $109.60 (+$3.60)

BEST BETS: 2 - 4 / $4.80 (-3.20)

Best Bet: DETROIT RAPPER (1st)

Spot Play: MAGENTA MAN (6th)


Race 1

(5) DETROIT RAPPER has looked OK since returning to the Meadowlands and now faces a blank field. Unless he makes a major mistake, he should win for fun. (8) DOWNUNDERMATTER doesn’t win often but gets some class relief. (4) CYPRESS POINT moves into a new barn and could show improvement.

Race 2

(5) KEYSTONE THOMAS was surprisingly 9-1 last week and finished second after battling on the engine. This field came up softer and a down the road effort seems likely. (4) DOC SIMON’S DREAM could flash early speed and sit the pocket behind the top choice with a chance to pull off the upset. (6) AVIVAS WINNER had an interesting trip last time.

Race 3

(1) MY GIRL GAL comes off a win at Vernon and really doesn’t face a difficult task tonight. Adding Corey Callahan to the team doesn’t hurt, either. (5) SOOKIE ships in razor sharp from Freehold and lured Jim Marohn, Jr. off my top pick. (2) KEYSTONE I WISH drops down and deserves at least some consideration.

Race 4

(5) ITS PAYDAY FRIDAY gets a nice driver switch to Brett Miller and has found a great spot to flex his muscles. (2) HYWAY MARCUS returns to The Meadowlands at a reduced level and merits respect; must use. (7) I C CAVIAR did his best chasing Obrigado in his last qualifier and was able to stay trotting the entire way. He is more than capable of winning on his best game.

Race 5

I don’t often pick Monticello shippers at The Meadowlands, but (2) PAYDAZE ON THE WAY comes in off a sharp score and has proven he can put up a faster mile on tracks larger than the half. (1) KESONS AVAIA & (3) CHEYENNE PATTI come out of the same race and finished one-two. I give a slight edge to the former this week because of the switch in posts. (6) FIRST BEST has been stuck with outside posts of late and could show more here.

Race 6

(1) MAGENTA MAN raced well in his first start since May. Any small improvement will make him very tough in this spot. (6) ROCK OF CASHEL couldn’t last on the lead a week ago but remains the most likely winner in this race and probable favorite. (3) MARKET SHARE hasn’t done much since shipping to this track but finds a field with some outside speed to set up his late rally.

Race 7

(2) GWENEEEE J was bottled up in traffic after a ground-saving trip in her first start in five weeks. Let’s look for a bit more aggressive drive and a much better result on Friday. (9) NOT BEFORE EIGHT is the best horse in the race, but she is saddled with the worst post and has to overcome a similar break in action. (3) ICOMMANDMYSPIRIT was used hard last time and hung in there rather well.

Race 8

(7) ROADWAY came up short in the stretch last week but I’m not jumping ship yet. Driver change here to Brett Miller keeps me on board. (8) GREAT SOUL comes off a win and lured Ginsburg off my top pick. (1A) BAKIN ON THE BEACH & (1) STORMIN RUSTLER have back class and can certainly tap into it at any moment; formidable combination.

Race 9

(1) NOWUCIT NOWUDONT & (2) FLYING ISA N drop in company coming out of the same race last week where they finished fifth and fourth, respectively. The former gets the nod since he dealt with a tough first-over trip and I suspect the latter will be an underlay of sorts since he was closing fast in the stretch. (4) EARL’S SPEEDER reunites with John Campbell, who steered him to victory two starts back.

Race 10

(2) RIGHT STUFF tried her luck on the engine and was caught by a classy veteran mare last out. This field came up short and seems to lack early speed, which should suit her nicely. (1) PRINCESS KATIE was used to the front last time and should have an easier chance at a smooth trip in this field. (5) ROYAL KNOCKOUT is typically good for an exotic spot and perhaps more if everything goes right. (6) SUNSHINE DANCER gets a driver change.

Race 11

(2) BULLVILLE MAGGIE gets a better post to work with this week and that can make a huge difference. As long as she provides a double-digit price, I’ll take a shot. (1) EXOTIC BEACH was stuck with a bad post at Pocono last time but shows a win at this level here two starts back. (9) PURITY can romp if on her game, which may be a big IF right now. (7) FOUR HOUR NAP has form but hasn’t been able to get over the top lately.