Friday 2/12/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Friday's Tip Sheet
By David Schwab

College hoops is the only game in town this weekend with the NBA All-Star break, but sports bettors will have a trio of matchups to focus their attention on this Friday night. First up is an Atlantic 10 clash between the No. 19 Dayton Flyers and the Rhode Island Rams in a 7 p.m. (ET) tip.

The next two conference tilts are in the Pac-12 starting with the No. 23 USC Trojans on the road against the Arizona State Sun Devils at 8 p.m. In a 9 p.m. tip in Tucson, the No. 17 Arizona Wildcats will play host to the UCLA Bruins.

No. 19 Dayton Flyers at Rhode Island Rams (ESPN2, 7 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: Dayton -1.5

Betting Matchup

Dayton finds itself at the top of the A-10 standings at 10-1 straight-up as part of an overall record of 20-3. The Flyers are riding a SU eight-game winning streak while going 5-2 ATS in their last seven outings. This is not the most prolific scoring team in the nation with 74.5 points per game, but Dayton is holding its opponents to just 64 PPG. The Flyers needed a late-game rally to get past Duquesne 76-74 as heavy 14-point home favorites their last time out after trailing in that game by as many as 12 points late in the second half.

The Rams have won their last two games (SU and ATS) to move to 6-5 (SU and ATS) in conference play. This past Tuesday, they hammered George Mason 81-63 as 12-point home favorites. The total went OVER 133 in that game and it has gone OVER in three of their last five games. This is another tough defensive team with a matching points-allowed average of 64.0. Sophomore guard Jarvis Garrett leads the team in both points (13.3) and assists (4.3) as part of the team’s scoring average of 70.4 PPG.

Betting Trends

-- The Flyers are 5-1 ATS in their last six road games and they are 5-2 in their last seven games following a SU win. The total has stayed UNDER in seven of their last 11 games on the road.

-- The Rams are just 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 games following a SU win, but they have covered three of their last four Friday games. The total has stayed UNDER in five of their last six games played on Friday.

-- The home team in this A-10 matchup is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings and the total has gone OVER in five of the last six meetings at Rhode Island.

No. 23 USC Trojans at Arizona State Sun Devils (PAC12 Network, 8 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: USC -1

Betting Matchup

USC remains in the thick of the Pac-12 regular season title race on the strength of a SU 6-2 record in their last eight games while going 5-3 ATS. They Trojans have been off since Feb. 4 when they knocked-off rival UCLA 80-61 as 5 ½-point home favorites. The total stayed UNDER 161 ½ points in that game after going OVER in eight of their previous 10 outings. The Trojans are ranked 12th in the nation in scoring with 84 PPG and they are ranked ninth in rebounds with 41.8. This is a deep scoring team with six different players averaging at least 11 points led by sophomore guard Jordan McLaughlin (12.5 PPG).

The Sun Devils got a much needed 67-55 victory last Saturday against Washington State as 3 ½-point road favorites after losing five of their previous six games. Their record ATS over this seven-game stretch stands at 3-3-1. The total stayed UNDER 153 in that win after going OVER in their previous eight games. Sophomore guard Tra Holder led all scorers in last Saturday’s win with 16 points to basically match his team-high scoring average of 15.5 PPG.

Betting Trends

-- The Trojans are 2-6 ATS in their last eight road games against a team with a SU winning record at home and they are 2-6 ATS in their last eight Friday games. The total has gone OVER in their last five games on the road.

-- The Sun Devils are 5-12-1 ATS in their last 18 conference games and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six games following a SU win. The total has gone OVER in their last seven home games.

-- Head-to-head in this Pac-12 tilt, the road team has covered in four of the last five meetings and the total has stayed UNDER in the last five games. USC drew first blood in this season’s series on Jan. 7with a 75-65 victory as a 5 ½-point home favorite.

UCLA Bruins at No. 17 Arizona Wildcats (ESPN, 9 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: Arizona -11.5

Betting Matchup

The Bruins have also been off since that loss to USC and heading into this game they are 4-6 (SU and ATS) in conference play. Going back to a previous 89-75 loss to the Trojans on Jan. 13 as 2 ½-point home favorites, they are 2-4 (SU and ATS) in their last six games. UCLA has allowed at least 80 points in all four of those losses and on the year it is ranked well down the Division I list in points allowed (77.0). Offensively, the Bruins are averaging 79.3 PPG led by junior guard Bryce Alford’s 16.7 PPG, but he has been held to 12 points or less in three of his last four starts.

Arizona is two games in back of Oregon for first place in the Pac-12 at 7-4 (SU and ATS) following a three-game winning streak both SU and ATS. The total stayed UNDER in all three games. The Wildcats last loss came against the Ducks on Jan. 28 in a 83-75 setback as 7 ½-point home favorites. They have shown some solid balance at both ends of the court with 81.2 points a game on offense complementing a defense that is holding opponents to 67.6 PPG. Senior forward Ryan Anderson (16.2 PPG) leads a trio of players averaging at least 14 points and he is the team’s top shooter with an impressive shooting percentage of 58.7.

Betting Trends

-- The Bruins have failed to cover in four of their last five road games and they are 1-5 ATS in their last six games played on Friday. The total has gone OVER in four of their last five games following a SU loss.

-- The Wildcats are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games and they are 21-7 in their last 28 conference games. The total has gone OVER in five of their last six games at home.

-- The road team in this matchup is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings and the total has gone OVER in three of the last five meetings. UCLA has the early edge in the season series with a 87-84 victory on Jan. 7 as a three-point home underdog.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAAB

Notes for Friday's games..........

Ohio won eight of last ten games with Buffalo, but lost 93-66 here LY. Bobcats won four of last five games overall- they won last two games on road, at Toledo/Ball State,, after losing first three MAC road tilts. Bulls are 4-2 at home in MAC, with two losses by total of six points; they've won four of last five games overall. MAC home favorites of 6 or less points are 19-13 against the spread.

Princeton won six of last seven games with Cornell, but lost 68-60 here LY; Tigers are 3-6 in last nine visits to Ithaca. Princeton is 4-1 in Ivy so far, with three wins by 13+ points; their loss was at Yale by 4. Cornell is 2-4 in Ivy, losing only home games by 11 to Columbia; Big Red is 0-5 vs top 100 teams, with four losses by 18+ points. Ivy League home underdogs are 4-2 against the spread.

Yale-Dartmouth split last six meetings; Bulldogs lost brutal 59-58 game here LY that cost them their first Ivy title since 1959- they lost twice in last three visits here. Yale won its last nine games, winning at Brown by 24 in its only Ivy road game. Dartmouth lost its last four games, giving up 77 ppg; three of its five Ivy losses are by 7 or less points. Ivy League home underdogs are 4-2 against spread.

Columbia is 5-1 in Ivy League, losing by 14 at Yale, beating Cornell by 4 in only home games; Lions are 12-2 in last 14 games after starting season 4-5. Home side won last seven Penn-Columbia games; Quakers lost three in row at Columbia, by 17-19-27 points. Ivy League home favorites of 8+ points are 2-4 vs spread. Penn won couple home games LW after its 0-3 Ivy start- they lost both road games so far, by 23-6 points.

Harvard won Ivy League the last four years but they're 1-5 this season, losing last five games in row- they're worst foul shooting team (56.8%) in country. Crimson has won 12 games in row over Brown, with two of last three in OT. Bruins lost its last seven visits here.Brown is 2-4 in Ivy, losing noly road game at Yale by 9. Ivy League home favorites of 7 or less points are 4-2 against the spread.

Dayton won eight games in row, 13 of last 14 games; they're 4-1 on road in A-14, with only loss at LaSalle. Flyers won last three games against Rhode Island by 7-16-4 points, but they've lost last six visits here, with last win at URI 10 years ago. A-14 home underdogs of less than 5 points are 1-7 vs spread. Rams have injury issues; they're 5-1 at home in A-14, losing to St Joe's by 9- wins are against bottom half of league.

USC beat Arizona State 75-65 at home Jan 7; ASU shot 7-25 on arc and 6-15 on foul line. Trojans are 3-2 in last five series games, lost lost three in row in Tempe, by 4-5-5 points. Pac-12 home underdogs of 3 or less points are 10-2 vs spread. USC is 2-3 on Pac-12 road; they allowed 85+ points in all three league losses. ASU is 3-8 in Pac-12, sweeping Wazzu and beating Oregon State at home- they split their four home games.

UCLA made 11-22 on arc in 87-84 upset over Arizona Jan 7; Bruins are 5-3 in last eight series games, but lost six of last seven visits here, losing last two by 10-6 points. Pac-12 double digit home favorites are 6-1 vs spread. UCLA lost four of last six games overall, allowing 80+ points in all four losses- they're 1-4 on Pac-12 road, with only win at Oregon St. Arizona is 3-0 since its 49-game home winning streak was snapped last week, winning by 17-15-5 points.

Monmouth won six games in row, 16 of last 18; they're 6-2 on MAAC road, winning last three road tilts by 15-6-26 points. Hawks are 1-4 vs Rider in MAAC play, winning 55-54 here LY after losing 77-71 the year before, in OT. Broncs won last four home games, including an upset over Iona- they lost two of last three games overall. MAAC home underdogs of 8 or less points are 10-13 against the spread.

St Peter's lost 63-61 at Niagara Jan 7; Eagles shot 59% inside arc in their 7th win over Peacocks in last nine series games. Eagles won three of last four visits here. St Peter's snapped 5-game skid in last game; they're 3-2 at home in MAAC, losing to Rider/Iona. Niagara lost seven of last eight games, with only win at lowly Marist. MAAC home favorites of 8+ points are 6-10 against the spread.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'ACC Showdown'

The Cavaliers playing some pretty good basketball behind 71.4 points/game along with knowing how to protect their own basket allowing a stingy 59.6 per/contest face a stiff test at Cameron Indoor Arena Saturday afternoon. Duke has hit a few bump this season, but the Blue Devils have won three straight entering the contest. Coach K's troops are also extremely tough to topple in front of the Cameron Crazies. In their last 63 games on home court, the Blue Devils have won 60 with just 3 losses. Over that span Blue Devils are 33-26-3 against the betting line.

Home court advantage along with being one of the better teams in the country on offense (84.3) will play a significant role in Duke winning this contest. However, you bet Blue Devils at some risk. Since the 2001-02 campaign, Duke has won twelve consecutive regular season games on Cameron Indoor Arena hardwood vs. Virginia but the Blue Devils certainly haven't followed in that same vein when adding the great equalizer (spread) posting a 2-9-1 record at the betting window.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Friday
By Mike Dempsey

We have plenty of good betting opportunities this holiday weekend, which includes four Kentucky Derby preps, two which are points races.

We are off to Golden Gate Fields on Saturday for the $200,000 El Camino Real (G2) which will offer up 10-4-2-1 points toward entry into the Run for the Roses.

The race drew a field of 14 and is just one of two Derby points races that are contested over a synthetic surface.

Frank Conversation is the 2-1 morning line favorite and is coming off a victory in the California Derby over the Tapeta surface on Jan. 16. The colt was beaten 8 ½ lengths in a fifth place finish in the Los Alamitos Futurity (G1) two back on dirt.

The race has not had much of an impact on Triple Crown races since the surface was switched to Tapeta in 2009. Chocolate Candy did finish fifth in the 2009 Kentucky Derby.

However, when you put a field of 14 on the track it still is a good betting race, and I will have selections and analysis for the race in tomorrow’s column.

The Sam F. Davis (G3) at Tampa Bay is not a Derby points race, but it serves as a major prep for the $350,000 Tampa Bay Derby (G2) which is a points race.

The best recent effort for an alum of the Sam F. Davis is Musket Man, who ran third in the 2009 Kentucky Derby and Preakness.

This year’s race drew just seven, but it is an evenly matched group. The 5-2 morning line favorite is Gettysburg, a smart looking maiden winner at Gulfstream Park in his last outing for trainer Todd Pletcher. The Pletcher barn has won the race in five of the last 10 years including last year with Vinceremos.

The second choice on the morning line at 3-1 is Destin, who was fourth in the Lecomte (G3) in his last outing and will also be saddled by Pletcher.

The Pletcher duo catch several foes capable of winning including OBS Championship winner Whatawonderfulworld (7-2), Smooth Air victor Rafting (7-2) and Morning Fire (4-1), who won the Pasco over the Tampa Bay Downs main track in his last start.


Here is today’s opener from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:

GP Race 1 Clm $6,250N2L (12:35 ET)
#2 Miss Nalanee 3-1
#6 Starship Galaxy 2-1
#5 Mi Emocion 6-1
#4 Petite Lapin 4-1

Analysis: Miss Nalanee stalked the early pace while down along the rail, fell back when losing position and coming back mildly to finish fourth going a mile over a wet track. The mare drops in facing a softer group here tagged for $6,250. Three back this gal was a good second at Gulfstream Park West in an effort likely good enough to beat this group.

Starship Galaxy tracked the early pace, came up the inside and did not have enough punch left late in a third place finish at this level. The filly appears headed back in the right direction as she makes her third start off the claim here by the Kopaj barn. She can handle the extra ground, her maiden score came at Gulfstream Park West going a mile in the slop for a $10,000 tag.

Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 2,6 / 2,4,5,6
TRI: 2,6 / 2,4,5,6 / 1,2,4,5,6

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:

GP Race 10 Md Sp Wt (5:05 ET)
#1 Hymnotic 5-1
#4 Gioia Stella 2-1
#6 Verbouwen 4-1
#2 Atlantic Sunrise 15-1

Analysis: Hymnotic makes her debut for the Clement barn that also sends out the likely favorite in here. Our top pick was a $180,000 Keeneland purchase by War Front out of a A.P. Indy mare that has dropped three dirt winners including graded stakes placed Endless Chatter ($221,652) but no turf winners. The barn is 13% winners with first timers. So far at the meeting here he is 0 for 9 with firsters with three seconds and a couple of thirds.

Gioia Stella made a good late rally to finish a game second in her debut, sent off at 9-1 in a field of 14 here. This gal was a $1.5 million Keeneland purchase, out of a Belong to Me mare that has dropped three winners including a pair of stakes winners, top earner Sea Queen ($474,495). She adds lasix to the mix and is bred to get the extra ground.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 1,4 / 1,2,4,6
TRI: 1,4 / 1,2,4,6 / 1,2,4,6,9

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.

Gulfstream Park
R4: #6 Brilliantbydesign 15-1
R5: #4 Crazy Frank C 12-1
R6: #1 Keepthedreamalive 12-1
R6: #12 Paddy O’Wagon 10-1
R7: #7 Midterm Exam 8-1
R10: #2 Atlantic Sunrise 15-1
R11: #4 J C Monba 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Friday 2/12 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 1/1,3,4,7/5,7,8/5,6,9/1,4,9 = $21.60

EARLY PICK 4: 5,6,9/1,4,9/1,4/3,7,9 = $54

LATE PICK 4: 3,7,9/4/1,2,5,6/3,5,8 = $36

MEET STATS: 237 - 748 / $1273.60 BEST BETS: 40 - 69 / $143.70

SPOT PLAYS: 17 - 69 / $191.30

Best Bet: WAR N MUNN (8th)

Spot Play: WAR FILLY (10th)


Race 1

(1) HERBIES WILDFLOWER has raced well in the top classes at Miami Valley lately and should be tough in here. Notice the narrow defeat Dec. 12 here to a foe that won the Preferred Trot this week. (4) HUBBY NUMBER ONE looked like a winner last week turning home then the leader took off again. He has a good shot from close range here. (6) TWIGGYS TWICK beat easier handily and should be able to share here.

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Race 2

(1) A PLUS may have needed her first start over this track where she got tired very late; another chance. (7) BEYONCES ROCKIN has qualified sharply and these rivals are well within her grasp if she's ready to roll. (4) DONTBRUSIECARRIE has improved with McNair at the controls and shoots for three straight here; don't take lightly.

Race 3

(5) WHISTYS PARADISE has been tough in this class all winter now goes for a capable barn off the claim; top call. (7) NEVERSAIDIWASSWEET was chased down very late by the choice in an improved effort. She should be the main threat. (8) B SANTANNAS LOVE was claimed by Auciello and could threaten this group right away.

Race 4

(9) PUTMEINTOGO was a wire-to-wire winner last time in this class. Expect her to blast off for the lead at the start here. (6) DAZZLE N DELIGHT closed strongly late last time first time McNair drove. She could offer some value for Pick 4 tickets here. (5) MACHET ROCKET took advantage of a slowing late pace last time but she seems to be improved for the new connections and is a threat here.

Race 5

(4) DOUBLE OLIVES raced tough first-over into a quickening pace last week. She is extra-dangerous if she can find a helmet to follow. (1) AMAZING CONTROL will be tough, as always, starting from the inside and is the one to beat. (9) SHOW SOME LEG has upset possibilities if she can get started up quicker this week.

Race 6

(4) HOPE FOR PADDY closed with a furious rush to win last week and could prove to be a good claim; call to repeat. (1) TOTAL LEE raced decently vs. better in her last two and should get aggressive earlier here. (7) REGALLY READY moved to the front early last time but was quickly overtaken by the eventual winner and couldn't keep pace. She will probably revert to a closing style here and pass many of these late.

Race 7

(3) ASPEN CALIFORNIA looked like a winner last time but hung late, perhaps affected by the wind down the lane. She should get a solid pace to chase here. (9) VICS ROYAL LADY has been racing great but must overcome the outer post. (7) FEDERAL was a good 2nd first time over the track and should be considered here.

Race 8

(4) WAR N MUNN destroyed the field and took a new life's mark doing it last week. He should take another here. (3) THREE TRUTHS was patiently driven and took advantage of a slowing pace last week. He will need to get faster to compete with the choice here. (2) NEW STANDARD continues to close long after the race has been decided for a smaller share. Similar is predicted here.

Race 9

(5) SANDBETWEENURTOES fell just short last time in a much-improved effort; slight nod in a compact but competitive Mares Open field. (2) MS MAC N CHEESE went a big trip to beat the choice and is a top contender here again. (6) BETIT TO GETIT went a bit too fast early and is extra-tough if she can get a breather.

Race 10

(3) WAR FILLY was out a long way trying to make front last week and it cost her late. A slightly better steer gets it done here. (5) P L HURRICANE drops to the lowest level and should be right there. (8) CHEEKIE is much better saving her move until very late and will likely be driven that way here. (10) JAKARDEZ has been facing better and could get a piece of this at a price. (4) IMA HOLY TERROR should be passing horses late and is a good one for the bottom of exotic wagers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 2/12 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 3 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 5 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 9 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 94 - 313 / $544.70 (-$81.30) BEST BETS: 12 - 23 / $49.90 (+$3.90)

Best Bet: KEYSTONE WANDA (10th)

Spot Play: CINCINNATI MISS (9th)


Race 1

(6) THE BAKERS CHOICE finally made it around the track smoothly and actually won that qualifier easily. In a field with many questionable contenders, he seems worth a shot at a decent price. (7) CURFEW is more than capable of taking this field down the road and should have a clearer path this week. (5) PINK PISTOL finished up nicely in her qualifier behind the top pick. Filly hasn’t raced in a long time and seems likely to get a conservative steer. (4) HIPPITY HOP had no shot from post 10; better spot now.

Race 2

(6) AROCKIN HANOVER drops back down to the $10,000 claiming level after a decent effort versus better. (7) BACKDRAFT HANOVER took a shot and weakened late last week. Scott Zeron in the bike is a nice plus this week. (5) THE POKESTER raced well on the rim in this class last time.

Race 3

(4) ONLY IN MY DREAMS hasn’t been very good since returning from a break, but have you seen the rest of this field? I’m hoping Callahan guns this guy to the front and take a shot. (5) DOWNUNDERMATTER comes off a decent effort, which is more than I can say about many of these. (9) PROVE UP is capable of winning in a field this bad. I wish he drew better. (2) COOL BEANS gets a driver switch to Campbell.

Race 4

(6) MC TINY’S HOPE was used hard vying for the front and paid the price. That was her first start since November and some improvement seems likely. (1) PHOTO KING picks up a catch-driver this week and can certainly be expected to do more. (2) PINSTRIPE PROMISE jumped it off before the start and lost all chance following two solid qualifiers; another chance.

Race 5

(9) APRICOT SOUR gets a chance to stretch out on the bigger track tonight and that might be just what the doctor ordered as she clearly isn’t loving life at Yonkers. (6) MOJARRA HANOVER becomes dangerous as she drops down in class, but you may be better off waiting for her to reach the basement condition. (2) CLORIS HANOVER steps up off a decent effort from post 9 and could show speed from this starting spot.

Race 6

(4) WISHIN IWAS FISHIN has been on my radar as a possible contender in recent weeks with the trainer driving. Now that Campbell is signed on to pilot, how can I not take a shot? (3) SUPER CLASSIC was dropping down but in a bad spot a week ago. He draws well this time around and could be a player if he minds his manners. (6) DILUTH lured Tetrick off of three others. (1) PHOTO MASS took a shot and tired last time; needs better trip.

Race 7

(5) EXQUISITE GLIDE has put in two solid qualifiers that should have him ready to roll in his 2016 debut. Six-year-old is no star but this field isn’t exactly loaded with top trotters. (1) ANGELS RANSOM broke in his first start for new connections over at Yonkers and returns here at the basement condition. On paper he looks like the favorite. (3) BALLARE HANOVER was a winner two starts back at this level.

Race 8

(7) INITTOWINAFORTUNE hasn’t been the same mare she was last year but it isn’t like she has been awful in her last two starts. I like the switch back to the Meadowlands and the price should be right as well. (2) NOT BEFORE EIGHT should be able to stick close to the action from the improved post this week. (8) GALLIE BYTHE BEACH was sharp in her qualifier but may need one start against a decent group.

Race 9

(4) CINCINNATI MISS is sure to be overlooked coming off three disappointing efforts and losing driver Corey Callahan to #1. That said, this field seems to lack some early speed and she was able to go down the road here back in December at this level. (10) FLYHAWK EL DURADO is the best horse in the race but is saddled with the worst post. He can overcome. (2) GREY ICE wasn’t awful last time. He could save ground and sneak into the number. (7) WORTH THE MONEY AS won against this kind two starts back.

Race 10

(4) KEYSTONE WANDA comes off two poor efforts, but that was from post eight at Yonkers following a six week gap in pari-mutuel racing. Mare made a healthy $101K last year and if you dig deep into her PP lines (2014), she had some success here at the Meadowlands. (2) MONTENEGRO can’t be as bad as last week; class drop now. (1) THE SUMMER WIND rallied nicely after taking time off; clear player. (9) LOONEY DUNE raced evenly off the bench. I might use her underneath and wait for another class drop next time.

Race 11

(5) PARIS PRINCESS N rallied well from an outside post last time and won from an inside post in her prior start at this level. If Zeron can hustle her to the front (very possible), she should sit a good trip. (8) CHARLES VII raced well when last seen here despite spending plenty of time on the rim. (2) FOREVER AS looks good if you excuse the recent break. (9) ITS HUW YOU KNOW reunites with Gingras but could face other early speed to his inside.

Race 12

(1) BULLVILLE MAGGIE had some traffic and was shut off at one point last week. Four-year-old drops down and adds Gingras; lots to like. (5) THAT WOMAN HANOVER has missed four weeks but remains very dangerous at this level. (4) MAJOR DANCER should fire off the gate and has to wake up eventually, right?

Race 13

(3) B YOYO has been relatively sharp over the last month and seems to be in a prime spot for a down the road try. (2) CASH POOR needed a short vacation following a bad effort at Yonkers. This gelding is very capable of beating this group. (8) CORSBY’S CLAM BAKE woke up in a hurry switching to the bigger track here. He has a shot again tonight but the outside post may be his undoing.

Race 14

(8) VALENTINA DE VIE comes off a string of outside post tries at Yonkers and could enjoy the switch back to The Meadowlands. (1) MATT TIN ROOF has early speed and a good post to secure position. (2) ANTY ENTITY was able to win at this condition three starts back. (6) EXOTIC BEACH is a must on the bottom of your exotics but seems to be having issues getting over the top.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 2/12 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 41 - 162 / $286.70

BEST BETS: 3 - 13 / $14.60

Best Bet: OH MY MAGIC (2nd)

Spot Play: WESTERN CREDIT (4th)


Race 1

(4) HUSTLEONHOME was very sharp on her way to victory in her latest; another fine trip will put her right back into the winner's circle. (3) LOCAL ART showed life last out; sitting in the pocket most of the way, but could not get past Hustleonhome. (1) TRINE HANOVER comes by way of Dover Downs with early zip, the rail and Sears has the assignment.

Race 2

(3) OH MY MAGIC was extremely wide turning for home and mowed down some of these on her way to glory last out; stays in same level for team Brennan/Burke so two straight is not out of the question. (4) ALEXANDER LUKAS stayed in the pocket most of the way and just missed the victory by only a length. (1) GWALLY gets post relief and that should help his cause.

Race 3

(4) MISS ALI MACH N flashed fine speed in her recent outing; led most of the way but in deep stretch she was on empty and had to settle for show money; might have better results with a return to her January 21st trip; looks formidable in here. (2) MACHO CHICK moves back inside and returns to the level where she got the job done two trips ago. (6) THESLEAZYPRINCESS first attempt here was sharp so she is very capable despite the move outside.

Race 4

(7) WESTERN CREDIT made a first over bid turning for home but could not keep it going thru the stretch run last out; he seems to be coming around based on his recent try so with that said, a covered up trip could have this gelding greet the cameraman for pictures. (2) CELEBRITY BLUECHIP took the pocket route the entire trip but he could not get past Oh My Magic last time out. (1) LATOKA made his initial start here on February 1st a winning one and has now wheeled off two straight scores.

Race 5

(3) QUICK AINT FAIR 4-year-old mare was quite good in her latest trip to the post with a second place finish; seems to be versatile and could take these to task with a favorable trip. (7) LOVINEVERYMINUTE did not disappoint the chalk players last out with a sharp victory. (5) LYONS SHADOW has scored twice at this level on January 28th and 21st respectably.

Race 6

This looks like a perfect spot for (1) FOUR BOYS to put it all together; on January 21st, this gelding closed strongly from the five path to miss the victory by a length and a half. He has every opportunity tonight to boss these at his best. (3) FRIDAYNIGHTFLIGHT was sent by Sears down the road last out to take home top prize. (8) SAINT WILLIAM A raced evenly throughout and held on for show honors recently.

Race 7

(4) PASADENA STAR was sent right to the front from the 7-hole and led most of the way, but could not hold off Cashontherocs last out; figures to be geared up to make tonight a winning one. (1) EXTRACURRICULAR makes his return to the fence where he got the job done on December 13th. (3) PRAYER SESSION should appreciate the move to the half-mile oval and this level should help his cause.

Race 8

Two sharp efforts for (4) PAMS LEGACY makes him quite tough in here; on January 16th, this gelding just got up for win honors in a snappy 1:54 1/5; all systems go for all the marbles. (3) BUBBIE BOY was late on the scene in deep stretch and rallied to miss the victory by a length and half. (6) MCCITO is another with late punch and almost got it done last time around.

Race 9

(5) KINGS BARNS was well bet at the windows last out but could not make some noise in the final stretch run of the mile; has the potential to get back into the swing of things, however he will need a better trip to make that happen; we shall see. (8) BACKUP A did not fire in his last two starts but this guy is not facing any standouts in here so he could contend for top connections despite the draw to the 8-hole. (3) ANNUITY could have a say in the outcome if given a favorable trip.

Race 10

(5) ELLA V HORSE Mare put an even finish to settle for fourth money last out; clearly she fits with these so if a favorable trip comes her way, the rest will be battling for place honors. (3) WANNA ROCK N ROLL got the job done wire to window against lesser last time around. (3) GEISHA GIRL N was sent right straight to the lead, but hit the brakes in the final stretch run last out.

Race 11

(3) FOR YOU ALMOSTFREE In his last two starts, this trotter seems to be knocking at the cameraman's door for pictures; very capable of getting the job done with a fine-timed drive. (4) FLIRTING DUEZY took the pocket route home for all the glory last time around. (7) ZORGWIJK NOVA Sharp trotting mare fits well in here based on her last three trips to the post.

Race 12

(7) EXHILARATED is a very consistent mare hitting the board in all her starts this year; has tactical speed and that will help her grab a perfect spot from her outside slot; very capable. (4) ROCKAROUND SUE's last two tries is an indication she is knocking at the door. (3) ICOMMANDMYSPIRIT was on the rim at the 3/4 pole and grinded out a victory in her last start.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (1st) Whimsey's Girl, 3-1
(6th) Golden Gem, 3-1

Charles Town (1st) Patriot Lady, 7-2
(4th) My Reward, 4-1


Delta Downs (8th) First Prize Yankee, 10-1
(9th) Wakkiano, 7-2


Fair Grounds (4th) Hayq's Fable, 3-1
(7th) Virtual Machine, 7-2


Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Percy's Bluff, 9-2
(8th) Lizzy's Atticus, 10-1


Gulfstream Park (6th) Leonardo Da Vinci, 7-2
(9th) Lemon Royal, 10-1


Laurel Park (3rd) Perigee Moon Slide, 10-1
(6th) Sweetest Yet, 5-1


Oaklawn Park (4th) A Band Apart, 9-2
(8th) Tapitsphere, 9-2

Penn National (2nd) Good Chemistry, 5-1
(8th) Street Shiner, 8-1

Sam Houston (3rd) Victors Cowboy, 6-1
(4th) Buckwild, 10-1


Santa Anita (3rd) Ferocious, 5-1
(8th) Icona, 3-1


Tampa Bay Downs (5th) Sinster Blue, 7-2
(7th) Run Gia Run, 7-2


Turfway Park (4th) October Song, 3-1
(10th) Cause I'm Alex, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Friday's six-pack

-- Indiana 85, Iowa 78-- Teams meet again before the Big 14 tournament.

-- California 83, Oregon 63-- Golden Bears got PG Wallace back.

-- UMass 69, VCU 63-- 11-point home dog Minutemen pulled an upset.

-- Temple 63, UConn 58-- Owls swept pair of games with UConn this season
.
-- Hawai'i 74, UC-Irvine 52-- Rainbows made seven 3's in row at one point.

-- All nine NHL games went over the total Thursday; that doesn't happen a lot.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Friday

863 UCLA @ 864 ARIZONA 9:00 PM

Take: 864 ARIZONA -11.5

There’s not much doubt about the marquee clash on the limited Friday night schedule. It’s round two between UCLA and Arizona, with the Wildcats looking for payback from a narrow defeat against the Bruins the first time around.

The number on this game appears to be right where it should be. But I’m going to rely on some intangibles to try and garner an advantage tonight. First off, there’s the revenge factor. As noted several times over the past couple of weeks, I have a definite preference toward backing higher power-ranked teams with positive momentum when in this role.

Arizona fits on that count. The Wildcats saw their very lengthy home court winning streak come to a screeching halt in a loss to Oregon. But Arizona rebounded from that defeat with a blowout win over Oregon State, and then scored the sweep last week on the road with wins at Washington State and Washington.

Things aren’t going as well for the Bruins. No question this team has a few nice wins this season. But there have been more bad losses, and the recent form for UCLA is less than sensational. They’ve dropped four of their last six, with the only wins against Oregon State and Washington State. Three of the four losses were by substantial margins. ‘

I think it’s entirely possible that UCLA is wearing down. The Bruins have very little depth. The UCLA bench is razor thin, and it looks to me like the major minutes might be taking some toll on the starters.

Arizona is still alive to win the PAC-12. But they need a sweep this weekend of UCLA and USC to have any real chance of catching first-place Oregon and the vastly improved Trojans. First things first, the Wildcats need to make sure there’s no second slip-up against the Bruins. I like their chances of taking care of business tonight, and if the ‘Cats come roaring out of the starting gate, this one could end up being lopsided. I’ll take my chances spotting the doubles with Arizona.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp NCAAB Pick, Friday, Feb 12, 2016 6:00 PM EST

(851) PRINCETON VS (852) CORNELL

Take: UNDER THE TOTAL

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Friday, February 12, 2016 is in the Ivy League college basketball scheduled contest between Princeton and Cornell. Cornell is home and No. 5 in the Ivy in points scored. The under is 38-18-1 in the Big Red's last 57 games vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600. Cornell is also 12-4 under the total at home against a team with a winning road record, as well as 9-3 under at home. Princeton is tops in the Ivy League in points allowed, 67.5 ppg. Princeton is 10-3 under the total following a spread loss. And when these rivals clash the under is 4-1, including 5-1 under the total on this court. Play Princeton/Cornell under the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Arthur Ralph Sports

Bonus Play: FRI Over 133 Yale/Dartmouth

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Doc's Sports

Dayton vs Rhode Island

Free College Basketball Prediction From Doc's Sports : Take #859 Dayton over Rhode Island (7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 12)

The Rams continue to receive too much respect and will be no match for the NCAA-bound Flyers tonight in Kingston. Dayton is 20-3 on the season and has won 8 straight games. Rhode Island is starting to get healthy but they have not done anything against good teams this season. St Joes, George Washington, and Saint Bonaventure have beaten the Rams this season, and the same thing will happen tonight.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Art Aronson

Penguins vs Hurricanes

1* Bonus Play Pittsburgh Penguins.

We don't subscribe to any one single handicapping methodology, but instead feel that being flexible with ones approach is the best way to secure profits over the longterm. Sometimes we keep it simple, while other times we'll take into account a bunch of different factors, like motivation, scheduling and significant injuries. Recognizing classic "spot bets" is something we always do as well, IE: the "look ahead" spot, the "let down" spot and the "trap" game. The actual contestants on the field of play rarely enter into our equation when making selections, unless it's a Top 3 player like a LeBron James or Aaron Rodgers etc. One set of criteria which we almost always use when making our decisions, are Against The Spread (ATS) statistics. Sometimes these stats can be overrated and other times they help foreshadow the outcome of a contest.

This particular play is based on a few different factors:

Momentum: The Pens would lose to the Hurricanes last month, but have since gone 5-2-2 and this time the team has goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (13-9-1-2 lifetime vs. Carolina) and Kris Letang back in the lineup.

Dominant special teams: Since that loss to the Hurricanes, the Pens have killed off 25 man advantages out of 25 tries. Also note that Pittsburgh has gone 11 for 32 (34.4 percent) on the power play.

ATS statistics: Note that Pittsburgh is 7-5 (+2.2 units) this year after a loss by two goals or more in its previous game (a 3-0 loss to the Rangers), while Carolina is a brutal 11-20 (-7.8 units) in revenging a loss vs. an opponent.

The bottom line: Three strong factors (momentum, special teams play and strong and relevant ATS statistics) make the PENGUINS a very intriguing investment opportunity, especially at this price.

AAA Sports

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Marc Lawrence

Princeton vs Cornell

Play - Cornell

Edges - Big Red: 10-2-1 ATS home off a loss of 20 or more points. Tigers: the visiting teams 2-8 ATS in this series. With Princeton eyeing up a bigger battle with Columbia tomorrow night, we recommend a 1* play on Cornell. Thank you and good luck as always.