Monday 11/28/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Dinos' big faves hosting Sixers'

Philadelphia at Toronto November 28, 7:30 EST

The Toronto Raptors square off in a division clash Monday night at the Air Canada Centre with the Philadelphia Sixers. Purple Dinos' are off a gruelling five game road trip (3-2 SU/ATS) which ended Friday evening with a 105-99 victory over Milwaukee Bucks. Division leading Raptors carrying a 10-6 (10-5-1 ATS) record behind 110.7 points per 100 possesions while allowing opponents 106.2 per 100 possesions should feel pretty confident entering the contest.

Raptors have dominated the series winning twelve consecutive games cashing nine of twelve tickets. Raptors can also tap into home court advantage. In the past 40 regular season games in front of the home audience, Purple Dinos' have won 38 contest with just 8 losses. Add the great equalizer, Raptors are 21-18-1 against the betting line at home.

Sixers' off a home loss vs Cleveland Sunday head into Toronto 4-13 (10-7 ATS) on the campaign dropping 95.7 per 100 possesions with a 105.1 PPG defensive efficiency rating. Life on the road has not been easy for Philadelphia. In Sixers' last 25 on unfriendly hardwood the result has been 1 Win, 24 losses (10-15 ATS). Sixers' have also had issues playing without rest. The last 22 times the team has found itself playing with little shut-eye they're 1-21 SU with a cash draining 7-15 record against the spread.

Huge discrepancy in scoring talent along with two full days of rest to get ready for this game, the Raptors have opened a whopping -14.5 point home favorites - Buyer Beware, last seventeen as double digit home chalk, Raptors are 7-10 ATS including 1-2 ATS hosting Sixeers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Monday’s games

Sacramento won three of last four games, covered five of last six; Kings are 2-5 as a road underdog- six of their last seven games went over total. Washington is 4-5 at home, 3-4 as a home favorite. Over is 5-2 in their last seven games. Home side won last six Sacramento-Washington games; Kings lost last three visits here, by 9-16-14 points (0-3 vs spread). Under is 5-3 in last eight series games.

Raptors are 4-3 at home, 3-2 as home favorites; they won last two games, by 13-7 points. Over is 7-2-1 in last ten Toronto games. Sixers lost tough home game with Cleveland; they’re 0-5 on road, 1-4 as road underdogs. Over is 10-5 in Philly’s last fifteen games. Toronto won its last ten games with Philly, covering last five; 76ers lost last five visits here (2-3 vs spread). Four of last five series games went over total.

Oklahoma City won last two games by 3-18 points, but they’ve lost four of last five road games, are 3-4 overall on road (2-5 vs spread). Over is 7-4 in their last 11 games. Knicks won/covered their last six home games; they’re 6-1 vs spread in last seven games overall. Under is 4-2 in their last six home tilts. Thunder is 7-3 in last ten games with New York, 3-1 in last four visits to Manhattan; Knicks covered last three series games. Three of last four series games stayed under.

Boston won three of its last four games; they’re 5-4 on road (6-3 vs spread). Under is 8-1 in their last nine games. Miami lost three of its last four games; they’re 2-6 at home, 2-2 as a home favorite. Under is 8-4 in Miami’s last twelve games. Celtics won four of* their last five games with Miami; under is 6-1 in last seven series games. Boston won its last two visits to Miami, both by 10 points.

Utah won its last two games by 25-27 points; they’re 5-5 on road, 4-0 as a road favorite. Under is 4-2 in last six Jazz games. Minnesota lost four of last five games, is 3-4 at home, 0-3 as a home underdog. Under is 4-2 in Wolves’ last six games. Jazz won seven of last nine games with Minnesota; three of last four series games stayed under the total. Utah won four of its last five visits to Twin Cities.

Charlotte lost four of last five games; they lost three of last four on road, are 1-0-1 as a road underdog. Over is 3-1-1 in last five Hornet games. Grizzlies won seven of last eight games, are 5-3 at home, 3-2 as a home underdog. Under is 4-2 in their last six games. Memphis won seven of last ten games with Charlotte; last three series games played here went over total. Hornets lost three of last four visits to Memphis (2-2 vs spread).

Hawks got hammered by the Lakers in Staples last night; they’ve lost five of last six games, are 1-3 as road underdogs. Last eight Atlanta games stayed under the total. Warriors won their last 11 games, are 2-4 as home favorites. Last four Warrior home games went over total. Golden State won eight of last nine games with Atlanta (6-3 vs spread, 3-3 in last six); Hawks lost last four visits to Oakland (1-3 vs spread).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Arizona State Sun Devils (4-2) at Kentucky Wildcats (6-0)

Date: November 28, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

LEXINGTON, Ky. -- No. 1-ranked and unbeaten Kentucky is hitting the road in a big way, exiting the mainland for Nassau, Bahamas, and a date with Arizona State on Monday.

"Now we've got to go on a trip and we've got to play in the Bahamas because our fans like to make trips, so we'll play in the Bahamas," coach John Calipari said Friday after Kentucky's 111-76 rout of Tennessee-Martin. "Go have a vacation with us down there, and spend three days in the Bahamas."

The game, to be played at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort, is actually the brainchild of Calipari. His intention is to bring the Big Blue Nation fan base and his extremely popular basketball team together in a relaxed environment.

"What I'm hoping is, bring your kids," Calipari said in his early November sales pitch. "Let's make this a terrific weekend. You're on the island, you're in a great venue and setup."

Kentucky (6-0) has already faced Michigan State at Madison Square Garden in New York and will play North Carolina on Dec. 17 in Las Vegas. But Calipari believes this trip has its own special appeal.

"I understand New York and I understand Vegas, but I think this is going to be the trip," Calipari said. "I want it to be a family where we're all there."

In 2010, Kentucky participated in the Maui Invitational, an event during which Kentucky's fan base regularly descended on Hawaii. But Calipari doesn't like the lengthy travel and ended it after regular participation dating back nearly 20 seasons.

Instead, Calipari took his club to the Bahamas in July 2014 for a six-game exhibition swing. During the trip, he promised fans they would return for a regular-season game every few years. Monday's game fulfills that promise.

On Sunday afternoon, Calipari did something he had never done in eight seasons in Lexington, inviting Kentucky fans to watch an open practice.

"It's an experience where you can get as close to this team," Calipari said. "You're not getting that close in Vegas and you're not getting that close up in New York. You're just not. It's a different environment."

Arizona State (4-2) has defeated Portland State, Cal Poly, Tulane and Citadel. Coach Bobby Hurley's club lost to Northern Iowa and Davidson. The Sun Devils haven't played since Wednesday, when they outscored Citadel 127-110.

"We're playing Arizona State," Calipari said. "It's not like we're playing a team that's not good. They're a good team."

Junior guard Tra Holder leads Arizona State in scoring at 18 points per game, followed by senior guard Torian Graham (17.3), junior guard Shannon Evans (16.2), senior forward Obinna Oleka (12.2) and freshman guard Sam Cunliffe (9.8). Oleka is averaging a double-double including his 10.3 rebounds per game.

Kentucky is led by in scoring by freshman guard Malik Monk at 18.7 points per game, thanks to a career-best 26 against UT-Martin. Sophomore guard Isaiah Briscoe averages 18.0 points but was forced to sit out the last two games with a bruised lower back. He was scheduled to undergo an MRI exam on Friday night.

Freshman point guard De'Aaron Fox averages 15.5 points and 7.8 assists and freshman forward Bam Adebayo averages 11.0 points and a team-best 7.3 rebounds.

One thing seems assured when the teams meet in paradise. Fans are in for fast-paced action as Kentucky averages 92.3 points and Arizona State, 85.7. The difference could be defense -- the Wildcats give up just 64 points compared to 79.2 for Arizona State.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-0) at Florida State Seminoles (5-1)

Date: November 28, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- After starting season 4-0 -- all four wins at home -- No. 25 Florida State's first road trip of the season ended 1-1.

And by the time they take the floor Monday night for the ACC/Big Ten Challenge against Minnesota, the Seminoles could be out of the poll as quickly as they got in.

That will be up to the AP Top 25 voters, who placed Florida State (5-1) among the country's elite for the first time since the 2012 season last Monday. But the Seminoles were upset by a 2-2 Temple team in the semifinals of the NIT Season Tip-Off on Thanksgiving, despite leading by as many as 18 points in the second half.

They rebounded in a big way a day later, handily beating Illinois in the third-place game, despite some noticeable errors in their play.

"Right now, we're going through some growing pains. We have guys missing assignments, not quite sure where to be," said Florida State head coach Leonard Hamilton, whose top two scorers are a sophomore and freshman. "But I'm hoping we can continue to win as we grow up."

Florida State and Minnesota (6-0) met 11 times previously -- five of those ACC/Big Ten Challenge -- with the Seminoles owning a 3-2 edge in the Challenge, which is in its 18th year this season. The Golden Gophers, however, won the last two meetings, the most recent of which was a 71-61 victory Dec. 3, 2013.

Florida State sophomore guard Dwayne Bacon leads the team in scoring at 18.2 points per game while true freshman forward Jonathan Isaac -- the crown jewel of the Seminoles' 2016 recruiting class -- is every bit as good advertised to start his career, averaging 15.3 points.

Isaac and Bacon are the only two players to reach double figures in all six of the Seminoles' six games.

The Golden Gophers are paced by guard Amir Coffey at 15.9 points.

Monday's contest will mark Minnesota's first game away from home, and head coach Richard Pitino hopes his team is ready for it.

"It gets a lot tougher now going on the road, so we'll see how we look with more adversity, I guess," Pitino said following their 57-45 win Saturday night against Southern Illinois.

It remains to be seen if Minnesota will have the services of starting center Reggie Lynch. The 6-foot-10 Lynch, who averages nine points and 3.6 blocks, sat Saturday with an ankle injury.

Florida State will wear turquoise uniforms against Minnesota on Monday to raise awareness for bringing sport to Native American and Aboriginal youth. It marks the seventh time -- but the first time this season -- the Seminoles will wear the special uniforms.

"The Seminole Tribe of Florida approached us about this program and we are honored and excited to wear these unique uniforms," Hamilton said. "The color is significant as it is deeply symbolic of friendship and community in the Native American culture."

Florida State first wore the turquoise uniforms in their 89-61 win over UT-Martin in Tallahassee on November 17, 2013.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Manhattan Jaspers (2-3) at West Virginia Mountainers (4-1)

Date: November 28, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- No. 19 West Virginia left the championship game of the NIT Season Tipoff with a loss and multiple teaching points.

"We didn't guard," coach Bob Huggins said after Friday's 81-77 loss to Temple in Brooklyn. "We didn't guard the way we're capable of guarding. Our help defense was atrocious. We fouled too much. We didn't make free throws. We missed open shots. We missed 17 layups -- 17 point-blank at the rim."

The Mountaineers (4-1) trailed 45-25 at the half, reclaimed the lead with eight minutes left and then failed to finish a game in which they were heavily favored.

On Monday night, when Huggins' team returns to action against Manhattan (2-3), he's hoping for more consistent defense -- not just the suffocating spurt WVU showed during the second half against Temple. He's also bothered by 60 percent foul shooting and the Mountaineers penchant for committing too many turnovers themselves. They forced 19 by Temple only to give back 16.

"That's a formula for disaster," Huggins said.

If there was a positive from the defeat, sophomore forward Esa Ahmad scored a career-high 19 points, becoming the offensive force many fans envisioned.

Nathan Adrian (13.2 points, 7.8 rebounds) and Ahmad (12 points, 5.4 rebounds) give West Virginia versatile forwards. Jevon Carter (9.6 points, 4 assists, 3.6 steals) and Tarik Phillip (9.6 points, 3.6 rebounds) lead a rotation of five guards that figures only to grow stronger with Daxter Miles (5.5 points) regaining his conditioning after a three-game illness absence.

The Jaspers, picked fourth in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, also have lost to Temple, 88-67, on Nov 20. They edged Detroit 84-81 in double-overtime on Saturday behind 32 points by guard Zavier Turner. The 5-foot-9 Ball State transfer averages 19.4 points and three assists per game.

Forward Zane Waterman (11.4 points, 7.4 rebounds) and freshman guard Aaron Walker (10.2 points, 4.0 rebounds) could be key if Manhattan is to stop West Virginia's trend of blowing out mid-majors in Morgantown. The Mountaineers have won three home games by an average of 40 points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Boise State Broncos (3-2) at Oregon Ducks (4-2)

Date: November 28, 2016 11:00 PM EDT

EUGENE, Ore. -- Oregon is back home until 2017.

The 13th-ranked Ducks (4-2) played four of their first six games away from home before returning home for nine consecutive games in their home state beginning with Monday night's tip-off against Boise State (3-2).

"We've got home games now in December," Oregon coach Dana Altman said. "We've got to get home and get to work and get a lot of things ironed out."

Oregon was ranked as high as No. 4 in the country before losses to Baylor and Georgetown that may knock it out of the polls on Monday.

"I've got faith in these guys," Altman said. "These guys have been through it. They won a lot of games and finished second in the Pac-12 and then first. They won a (Pac-12) tournament and went to the finals in the other one. They'll bounce back."

After losing its opener to Georgetown at the Maui Invitational last week, Oregon beat Tennessee and Connecticut.

"I think UConn has a lot of potential and they will get better and Tennessee is young, so they will grow as a team," Altman said. "I think those are three good games for us. Three athletic teams and it gave us an idea of all the things that we need to work on. Our guys know that. They know they are not playing like they are capable, especially the veterans."

Oregon welcomed back all-conference forward Dillon Brooks in Maui after he missed the first three games of the season following foot surgery in July. The 6-foot-7 junior came off the bench to average 11.3 points in 18.7 minutes per game.

He is expected to return to the starting line-up against Boise State.

"I thought for not playing four- and one-half months, he stepped up and played good," Altman said.

Altman will have to alter his rotation when Brooks returns to the starting line-up. The seventh-year coach said he plans to use a month at home to settle on playing time heading into conference play later this month.

"This gives us a month to try and really get things in place with the next seven games in Oregon," he said. "We have to get to work."

Center Chris Boucher leads Oregon with 15 points while averaging 6.8 rebounds. Junior forward Jordan Bell leads Oregon with 8.3 rebounds while scoring 11.2 points per game.

Boise State, which beat Oregon 74-72 last season, lost to College of Charleston and Mississippi State before winning two straight against Western Michigan and Presbyterian. Six-foot-seven forward Chandler Hutchison leads the team with 18.4 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.

Broncos coach Leon Rice is well aware the rematch with the Ducks will result in a tough battle.

"Oregon is on the schedule next so we have to step way up," Rice said at a postgame press conference. "This is a terrific Oregon team and a team that's going to contend for a Pac 12 title."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Monday’s games

Charlotte beat Appalachian State the last three years, by 16-10-18 points; 49ers lost last two games, by 22 at Davidson, in OT at home to SC-Upstate after a 3-0 start. Charlotte starts two sophs, two seniors; they’re making 47.1% of their 3’s, #2 in country. Appalachian State lost by 35 at Duke Saturday; they lost to Davidson, Tennessee by 12-9 points, won at Hartford by 9. ASU starts a freshman and three sophs. C-USA home favorites are 8-5 vs spread. Sun Belt road underdogs are 10-8.

Kentucky beat Michigan State by 21 in its only neutral court game; that was also their only top 10 0game so far. Young Wildcats (#344 in experience) are forcing turnovers 25.7% of time, but their schedule so far has also been #290. Arizona State lost by 19 to Northern Iowa, 8 to Davidson in its two top 100 games so far; ASU won its last game 127-110 over Citadel, which uses a Westhead-like system. Sun Devils start two juniors, two seniors; they don’t sub much. Pac-12 underdogs are 3-8 vs spread this month.

Florida State blew an 18-point lead with 13:29 left and lost to Temple in Brooklyn Thursday; Seminoles are 5-1, beating Iona by 21, Illinois by 11 in their other top 100 games. FSU is playing #54 tempo; their bench is playing #37 minutes- they start two sops and a freshman. Minnesota is 6-0 (all at home) with top 100 wins over Tex-Arlington/St John’s, Arkansas. Gophers have #11 eFG% defense so far, but this is their first road game. ACC home favorites are 15-9 against spread. Big 14 underdogs are 11-10 vs spread.

Northwestern is 4-2, but 1-2 vs top 100 teams, with tough losses to Butler/Notre Dame and win over Texas; Wildcats have made 43.5% of 3-pointers, have #36 eFG%- they start two juniors, two sophs. Wake Forest is 5-1 with a 78-61 win at Charleston; Deacons are #263 experience team playing #68 tempo; their best wins are Charleston/Bucknell. Wake also start two juniors, two sophs. Big 14 home favorites are 11-11 vs spread; ACC underdogs are 3-9, but this is their first true road games as an underdog this year.

Butler is 6-0 after couple of tough wins in Las Vegas, by 9 over Vandy, 4 over Arizona; Bulldogs already have three top 100 wins; this is their first true road game. Butler is forcing turnovers 24.6% of time (#17). Utah is 4-0 against easiest schedule in country (two non-D-I teams); Utes* are pretty young but playing lot of guys- they start two juniors and a senior. Big East favorites are 15-14 vs spread, 8-9 away from home. Pac-12 underdogs are 3-8 vs spread, but none of those were as home underdogs.

Oregon is 4-2 but has struggled a little, losing by 17 at Baylor, by 4 to Georgetown on Maui; Ducks are turning ball over 22.2% of time, but got Brooks back- they beat Tennessee in OT, UConn in Maui Classic after losing to Hoyas- they’re only playing seven guys. Boise State is 2-3, losing by 12-13 to Charleston/Miss State; Broncos start a freshman and two sophs. Mountain West road underdogs are 8-3 vs spread this month. Pac-12 home favorites are 14-15 against the spread.

Manhattan is turning ball over 25.5% of time in its 2-3 start, bad news against an annoyed West Virginia team. WVU was down 20 at the half to Temple Friday, stormed back but lost by 4; my guess is their practices since have been fierce. Mountaineers are forcing turnovers 32.1% of time (#1 in country); their three wins vs teams outside the top 100 are all by 28+ points. Manhattan needed double OT to win at Detroit Saturday; Jaspers lost by 21 at Temple before that- they’re 1-2 in true road games, with losses by 12-21 points.

Oral Roberts beat local rival Tulsa last three years by 2-5-9 points, beating Hurricane LY even when Tulsa was playing seven seniors- now those kids are graduated, Tulsa is rebuilding, and is 2-2 this season, losing by 27 at Wichita State in its only road game- they beat Oregon State by 12 in only other top 200 game. Oral Roberts is 0-4 vs D-I teams, losing to Ole Miss in OT in first round on Virgin Islands- they’re turning ball over 21.1% of time, shooting only 30% on arc. Summit League underdogs are 11-16 vs spread away from home.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL injury report

GREEN BAY PACKERS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES on Monday night
GREEN BAY PACKERS
--Out: LB Kyler Fackrell (hamstring), cornerback Demetri Goodson (knee), G T.J. Lang (foot), LB Blake Martinez (knee)
--Questionable: CB Damarious Randall (groin), LB Jake Ryan (ankle)
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
--Out: RB Ryan Mathews (knee), RT Halapoulivaati Vaitai (knee).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Opening Line Report - Week 12
By Marcus DiNitto

If you’ve been blindly betting the Cowboys (9-0-1 ATS) and the Patriots (8-2 ATS), and blindly fading the Browns (2-9 ATS) and the 49ers (2-8 ATS) this NFL season, you’ve cashed tickets at a stout 34-6-1 clip.

“What’s been hurting us the most is the Cowboys and Patriots covering every week and the Browns and the Niners failing to cover,” said Jason Simbal, vice president of risk at CG Technology.

“Free money (for bettors). Just bet against the Niners and the Browns,” Nick Bogdanovich, director of trading at William Hill U.S., said of the tough day for his book on Sunday.

Ed Salmons, oddsmaker at the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook, said public action on the Cowboys has picked up in recent weeks. “They bet against them at Green Bay (in Week 6), but since that game they’ve been betting them religiously,” he said of the gamblers at his shop.

The Cowboys, who have covered every spread since pushing against the Giants in Week 1, take their traditional featured spot on Thanksgiving Day next week, opening as solid home favorites against the Redskins.

Here’s a look at the opening betting lines for the entire Week 12 slate, with more insight from Bogdanovich, Simbal and Salmons. Numbers listed are the Las Vegas consensus as of about 11 p.m. ET on Sunday night, with early moves and differences among books noted as well.

Monday, Nov. 28

Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles (-3)

The Week 12 Monday nighter doesn’t look nearly as sexy as it did earlier this season. Green Bay has lost five of its last six games; Philly has lost five of seven.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Total Talk - Week 12
By Chris David

Week 11 and Thanksgiving Day Recaps

The ‘under’ produced an 11-3 record in Week 11 as the defensive units dominated the offense last week. Only three teams were able to score 30-plus points and some of those numbers were misleading. The Redskins and Patriots scored 20 and 17 points respectively in the fourth quarter of their wins and the Vikings received 14 of their points from defense and special teams.

Thanksgiving Day continued the ‘under’ trend (2-1) and it was almost a perfect day for the low side but the Cowboys and Redskins combined for 34 points in the final 15 minutes and the ‘over’ winner certainly made the turkey taste better for many.

Excluding the holiday results, the ‘over’ holds a slight edge with an 82-78-1 record through 11 weeks.

Under the Lights

The ‘over’ went 2-1 in the primetime matchups last week and both tickets to the high side cashed with late fourth quarter surges. Including Thursday’s holiday result between Pittsburgh and Indianapolis, the ‘under’ has gone 19-16-1 this season.

Green Bay at Philadelphia: The Packers have seen the ‘over’ cash in four straight and the defense (38.3 PPG) has been embarrassed during this span. I’d expect Philadelphia’s offense to have success as well but the outcome of this total will come down to the Green Bay offense against the Philadelphia defense. All the numbers point to the Birds in that matchup, who are allowing a league-best 9.5 PPG at home this season and they shut down some quality quarterbacks in Ben Roethlisberger and Matt Ryan too. They also have run up 26 sacks in 10 games and 15 of those have come at home, which is tops in the NFL. Even though the above “road system” says ‘over’ in this matchup, I’d tread lightly based on the matchup.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Packers (4-6) at Eagles (5-5)

Date: November 28, 2016 8:30 PM EDT

The Green Bay Packers started the season, as they always do, with championship aspirations.

The Philadelphia Eagles, after crushing Pittsburgh 34-3 to improve to 3-0, looked like they were emerging as a surprise challenger.

Instead, Monday night's game at Lincoln Financial Field could serve as an elimination game. The Packers have lost four in a row to plunge to 4-6 and 14th place in the NFC playoff race. Even with an upset victory over the Eagles, they would remain two games behind the division-leading Lions after their Thanksgiving Day win over Minnesota.

The Eagles have crashed back to Earth with losses in five of their last seven games. At 5-5, they are in ninth place in the NFC and trail Washington (6-3-1) for the final NFC wild-card spot.

For the Packers, this is unexpected territory as they join New England as the only teams to qualify for the playoffs in each of the past seven seasons.

Head coach Mike McCarthy's confidence, however, hasn't waned.

"We have the right kind of men," he said. "This group of men, we're going to get to where we want to go. I'm fully confident in that. The process, the approach, the preparation, we're going to get this the way it needs to be. This locker room is awesome.

"We've got to win. We get that. It's about results. But everything leading up to that, I'm very pleased with. So we're just going to keep stoking our fire and we're going to do everything we need to do this week and prepare to go beat Philadelphia."

For the Eagles, their up-and-down play isn't surprising considering rookie quarterback Carson Wentz, the No. 2 overall pick in this year's draft, is learning on the job. That doesn't mean there isn't disappointment.

They lost last week at Seattle by 11 points but their other four losses have come by a combined 19 points.

"It's something that we kind of in the back of our minds sort of planned for," first-year head coach Doug Pederson said. "Still, to be 5-5 and to be in the thick of it is a credit to him and the rest of the team and how well they've played. We've had our chances. We've had moments to pull out some of these close games that we've been in. It's just something that it is what it is right now. He's learning. Every rep that he takes, he's learning. It's going to make him a much better quarterback down the road."

If there are big advantages for the Eagles, it's defense and venue. The Eagles rank fourth in the league with 18.6 points allowed per game. They've allowed a total of 38 points in going 4-0 at home.

The Packers, meanwhile, gave up 47 points at Tennessee in Week 10 and 42 more at Washington in Week 11. Green Bay hasn't allowed back-to-back 40-point games since 1953 or four consecutive 30-point games since 1952. The Packers have lost four in a row on the road for the first time since 2008.

Injuries are a factor for both teams.

The Eagles' top running backs, Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles, were knocked out of the Seattle game. Sproles (broken rib) is more likely to play than Mathews (knee), Pederson said. Still, it could leave the Eagles' running game in the hands of rookie Wendell Smallwood.

Top cornerback Leodis McKelvin is in the concussion protocol.

The Packers had seven starters out by the end of the Washington game, including both starting cornerbacks and both starting inside linebackers. With the injuries to Jake Ryan (ankle) and Blake Martinez (knee) at inside linebacker, the Packers might be forced to move Clay Matthews back inside, where he played the previous season-and-a-half.

There's a chance the Packers could get back second-year cornerback Damarious Randall, who's missed the past five games following groin surgery, but veteran Sam Shields will spend the rest of the season on injured reserve with a concussion.

Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins and Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota took advantage of that depleted secondary to post passer ratings of more than 145 the last two weeks.

Can Wentz take advantage, too? In his first four games, Wentz had a 103.5 passer rating with seven touchdowns vs. one interception. In the last six games, he's had a passer rating of 72.3 with four touchdowns and six interceptions.

Against Seattle, Wentz completed 51.1 percent of his passes, threw two interceptions and had a passer rating of just 61.2.

"We've just got to be on point. We had a couple mistakes that really hurt us," Wentz said. "Especially when you're facing good teams, you can't have those letdowns. You have to be sharp. You can't have those little mistakes that can really cost you big in the end. I think we're learning that. Unfortunately, we have too many of those every week, even in wins."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Gridiron Angles - Week 12
By Vince Akins

NFL O/U OVER TREND:

-- The Eagles are 15-0 OU (9.97 ppg) since Oct 06, 2013 off a loss where they made at least 5 third downs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday Night Football betting preview: Packers at Eagles

Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5, 47.5)

The early-season hype surrounding rookie Carson Wentz has quieted down, but the whispers are growing louder around two-time MVP Aaron Rodgers' inability to stop his team's maddening slump. Both quarterbacks will be trying to keep their teams in the playoff chase when Wentz and the Philadelphia Eagles host Rodgers and the sliding Green Bay Packers on Monday night.

The Eagles have dropped five of seven since No. 2 overall draft pick Wentz led them to a 3-0 start, slipping into last place in the NFC East. Still, the Eagles are right on the heels of division rival Washington (6-4-1) for the final playoff spot in the conference and also own a 4-0 record at home, including victories over Atlanta and Minnesota in their last two at Lincoln Financial Field. The Packers are in the midst of a spectacular four-game slide during which they have allowed a staggering 153 points, but Rodgers is maintaining a positive outlook. "I feel like we can run the table, I really do," Rodgers said. "You just feel like it just takes one (win). We get one under our belts, things might start rolling for us and we can run the table."

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

LINE HISTORY: The Eagles opened as 3.5-point home favorites and, despite a brief rise to -4, the spread currently sits on the opening number. The total hit the betting board at 48, dropped a full point to 47 and currently sits at 47.5.

WEATHER REPORT: The forecast for Philadelphia is calling for partly cloudy skies and temperatures in the mid-40's for kickoff on Monday evening - not too bad for late November in Philly. There will be a light breeze (3-4 mph) that will not be a factor.

WHAT SHARPS SAY: "Both teams are struggling after decent starts this season. Green Bay has gone just 1-5 SU (2-4 ATS) after a 3-1 SU (2-1-1 ATS) start, while Philadelphia has gone just 2-5 SU/ATS after their 3-0 SU/ATS start. Both teams are struggling to throw the ball as the Packers are averaging only 6.3 yards per pass this season (versus opponents that allow 6.7 ypp), while the Eagles average just 6.2 yards per pass (versus opponents that allow 6.8 ypp)." - Steve Merril.

INJURY REPORT:

Packers - LB J. Ryan (Probable, ankle), CB D. Randall (Questionable, groin), LB K. Fackrell (Questionable, hamstring), C J. Tretter (Questionable, knee), G T. Lang (Questionable, ankle), T D. Barclay (Questionable, shoulder), S K. Bice (Questionable, back), LB B. Martinez (Out, knee), CB D. Goodson (Out, knee), CB M. Dorleant (Questionable, undisclosed), CB S. Shields (I-R, concussion), RB E. Lacy (I-R, ankle), RB D. Jackson (I-R, knee), RB J. Crockett (I-R, shoulder).

Eagles - CB L. McKelvin (Probable, concussion), DE C. Barwin (Probable, undisclosed), RB D. Sproles (Probable, ribs), DE S. Means (Questionable, illness), DT T. Hart (Questionable, ankle), S T. Brooks (Questionable, hamstring), DT F. Cox (Questionable, undisclosed), RB R. Matthews (Out, knee), T H. Vaitai (Out, knee), T L. Johnson (Elig Week 16, suspension), CB R. Brooks (I-R, quadricep), LB J. Walker (I-R, knee), DE A. McCalister (I-R, calf).

ABOUT THE PACKERS (4-6 SU, 4-5-1 ATS, 6-4 O/U): Following narrow losses to Atlanta and Indianapolis by a combined six points, Green Bay's defense has been carved up for 89 points by Tennessee and Washington in the first two stops of its three-game road trip. With the Packers having failed to force a turnover in three of the last four defeats, defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters: "You just keep working at it. ... We know how to do it, we’ve done it for quite a while around here, but we’re not getting it done right now." Green Bay is hopeful that Christine Michael, claimed off waivers from Seattle, will be ready to bolster a sagging running game with a full week of practice. Rodgers continues to put up solid numbers with 15 TD passes and three interceptions in his last five games.

ABOUT THE EAGLES (5-5 SU, 5-5 ATS, 5-5 O/U): It's hardly a surprise that Wentz has been unable to sustain his hot start, given the dearth of playmakers at wide receiver and a spotty running game. Wentz threw seven touchdown passes against one interception in his first four games, but those numbers have changed with four scoring tosses and six picks in the last six contests. Wentz has thrown for more than 238 yards just once in his last seven games, with wideout Jordan Matthews his favorite target with 53 receptions and three touchdowns. Ryan Mathews rushed for a season-high 109 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Atlanta on Nov. 13, but he injured his knee in last week's loss at Seattle and is not expected to play. Philadelphia has surrendered only 38 points in its four home games.

TRENDS:

* Packers are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game.
* Eagles are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 Monday games.
* Over is 4-0 in Packers last 4 games overall.
* Over is 9-0 in Eagles last 9 games in Week 12.
* Under is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.

CONSENSUS: The home favorite Philadelphia Eagles are picking up 58 percent of the point spread action and the Over is getting 76 percent of the Over/Under wagers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Packers look to snap skid

Week 12 SNF Betting Preview
Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Odds: Philadelphia (-4); Total set at 48

The Green Bay Packers have been one of the NFL's best teams to fade in the month of November as they have gone 0-3 ATS so far in the month as part of a four-game losing streak.

It's been the Packers defense that's to blame for those defeats as they seemingly can't stop anyone right now, allowing 30 or more points in all four of their defeats during this run, including 40+ in the last two.

At 4-6 SU and looking up at the 7-4 SU Detroit Lions in the division, there is no more margin of error left in Green Bay's season and they've got to turn things around in a hurry.

Going into Philadelphia on MNF isn't exactly the best place to start a turnaround for the Packers as Philly has been a very tough out at home. The Eagles have beaten the likes of Pittsburgh, Minnesota, and Atlanta already on this field and have been much better then people expected entering the year.

Rookie QB Carson Wentz appears to be the real deal, and a perfect 4-0 SU and ATS mark at home this season is part of the reason they are laying more than a FG here. Obviously, Green Bay's disasters the past few weeks finally appear to have many jumping off their bandwagon, but I wouldn't be in such a hurry to lay the chalk with the Eagles this week.

For one, Green Bay's offense has been doing everything they can to eliminate the mistakes made by their defense during this losing stretch. Had the Packers got even average defensive play over their past four games they could very well be sitting at 2-2 SU over that stretch and right in the hunt for the NFC North lead.

It was Aaron Rodgers and the offense that endured much of the criticism early on this year, but with 24 or more points in five straight games, that Packers offense has found something that definitely works.

That play will be tested against an Eagles team that has yet to allow more than 15 points in any home game this season, but the level of desperation on the Green Bay sideline this week will be at an all-time high and they are going to need to rely on their strength (the offense) to save their season.

Green Bay has gone 4-1 ATS in their past five games with Philadelphia and are playing an Eagles team who've had their own struggles this month too as they are 1-5 ATS in their last six November games.

Secondly, the Eagles dominance at home has come in large part because of their ability to force numerous turnovers in those contests and halt the opposition in their tracks. I expect this to be one of Aaron Rodgers' best games of the year to date and I don't see him or the rest of the Packers offense putting the ball on the turf much.

Taking care of the ball will force an Eagles offense that only averages 222.1 yards/game through the air to continually go the length of the field. Even with all of Green Bay's defensive issues of late, forcing the Eagles to go the length of the field on a routine basis gives the Packers defense a much higher chance at success.

So while many are finally jumping ship on the Packers this year after there defensive struggles were laid bare for everyone to see on national television last week, I'm taking the alternate approach here and believe them to be the side that gives this Eagles team their first home loss of the year.

Remember, the Eagles were projected to be a 6-7 win team this year with Wentz at the helm and that's likely exactly where they'll finish.

No team is ever as bad as they look one week – especially on a nationally televised game – and with the Eagles offense not striking fear in anyone these days, the Packers defense should surprise many with a strong turnaround.

Best Bet: Take Green Bay +4

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Monday Night Football'

Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles November 28, 8:30 EST

Eagles have betting trends in their favor. Philadelphia surrendering only 38 points in its four home games are 4-0 ATS as host this season. Eagles are 5-1 ATS in their last six Monday games, 3-0 ATS home vs NFC North and 6-2 ATS laying -4.5 or less at home. One the other side, Packers' defense carved up for 31 or more points in each of the four losse are 0-6 ATS after allowing more than 30 points in their previous game. Packers have covered jus one last five away under Monday Night Light's, have a 0-4 ATS skid in B-2-B road games and are 2-4 ATS away vs NFC East.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MNF - Packers at Eagles
By Kevin Rogers

Both the Packers and Eagles are sitting outside the NFC Wild Card race heading into December. The two NFC squads meet up in Philadelphia on Monday night looking to rebound from losses last week, as Green Bay is trying to end a four-game losing skid. The Eagles have been terrific at home by posting a 4-0 mark at Lincoln Financial Field, as they attempt to keep their home defensive domination going.

LAST WEEK

The Packers (4-6 SU, 4-5-1 ATS) lost not only their fourth consecutive game at Washington, but dropped to 1-4 away from Lambeau Field. The Redskins routed the Packers, 42-24 as three-point favorites as Green Bay allowed over 42 points for the second consecutive week. Washington outgained Green Bay, 515-424, even though Aaron Rodgers threw for 351 yards and three touchdowns in the defeat. Rodgers put up great fantasy numbers in the last two losses (351 vs. Washington and 371 vs. Tennessee), but the Packers’ defense has been carved up resulting in four straight OVERS.

The Eagles (5-5 SU, 5-5 ATS) continued their road struggles as well by falling at Seattle as 6 ½-point underdogs, 26-15. After Philadelphia took a 7-6 second quarter lead on a Carson Wentz touchdown pass to Zach Ertz, the Seahawks outscored the Eagles, 20-8 the rest of the way to send the Eagles to its fifth away loss of the season. Wentz has thrown four interceptions in his last two road losses to the Seahawks and Giants, while Philadelphia was limited to its fewest points in a game this season.

HOME COOKING

Philadelphia has struggled on the road in Wentz’s rookie season, but the Eagles are unbeaten at Lincoln Financial Field by posting a 4-0 SU/ATS record. In the four wins, the Eagles have allowed a total of 38 points, as Philadelphia has finished UNDER the total in each home contest. All four victories have come by at least nine points, while holding the Falcons to a season-low 15 points two weeks ago.

PACKING IT AWAY

Last season, the Packers won six of 10 games away from Lambeau Field. However, Green Bay hasn’t won a road game this season since a Week 1 triumph at Jacksonville, 27-23. The OVER has hit in four of five away contests for Green Bay, while allowing at least 23 points in four of five road games. The Packers have covered five of their last seven in the role of a road underdog since the 2014 NFC Championship game, but three of those ATS wins came in the playoffs.

SERIES HISTORY

From 2003 through 2014, the Eagles and Packers hooked up 10 times as Philadelphia captured six matchups. These teams last met in November 2014 at Lambeau Field as the Packers routed the Eagles, 53-20 to cash easily as 4 ½-point favorites. Rodgers picked apart the Philadelphia defense for 341 yards and three touchdown passes, while wide receiver Jordy Nelson hauled in four passes for 109 yards and a touchdown. Green Bay is making its first trip to Lincoln Financial Field since the Wild Card round in the 2010 season. The Packers eliminated the Eagles, 21-16 as Rodgers tossed three touchdowns in their first playoff win en route to capturing Super Bowl XLV.

LINE MOVEMENT

The Las Vegas Westgate Superbook opened the Eagles as a three-point favorite, shaded to -120. That number has moved up with Philadelphia now laying 3 ½, while several offshore books. The total is floating all over the board with numbers between 47 and 48.

MONDAY NIGHT MEMORIES

The Packers have split their last four Monday night games, but are playing on the road on a Monday for the first time since 2012. Many football fans will remember that controversial finish when Green Bay lost on the Hail Mary pass at Seattle, 14-12 as three-point road favorites. The Eagles are playing their second Monday night game this season after routing the Bears in Week 2 by a 29-14 count. Philadelphia has won five of its past six Monday nighters since 2013, including a perfect 2-0 SU/ATS record at Lincoln Financial Field.

KEY TREND

Vince Akins provides a trend that favors the Packers on Monday. According to Akins, the Eagles are 0-13 ATS (-7.85 ppg) since 2011 as a favorite of less than six points when facing a team averaging less than 25 rushes per game. Green Bay has carried the ball 19 times or fewer in each of the last four games.

PROPS – According to Las Vegas Westgate Superbook

Green Bay

A. Rodgers – Gross Passing Yards
285 ½ - OVER (-110)
285 ½ - UNDER (-110)

A. Rodgers – Total Touchdown Passes
2 – OVER (EVEN)
2 – UNDER (-120)

J. Nelson – Will he score a touchdown?
YES -145
NO +125

Philadelphia

C. Wentz – Total Completions
23 ½ - OVER (-110)
23 ½ - UNDER (-110)

C. Wentz – Total Touchdown Passes
1 ½ - OVER (-130)
1 ½ - UNDER (+110)

J. Matthews – Total Receiving Yards
66 ½ - OVER (-110)
66 ½ - UNDER (-110)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Pompano Park

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

Race 8 - Post: 9:26 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 85 - Purse:$7000 - CLAIMING $15,000 BYRON PICKED 1 OVER 5 HENNESSEY PICKED 5 OVER 6
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 4 DAMON BLUE CHIP 2/1
# 5 STIRLING CADILLAC 7/2
# 1 COOL LIKE FIRE 5/1

Really keen on the likelihood of DAMON BLUE CHIP taking down the winner's share in here. Has competitive TrackMaster Speed Ratings and quite possibly has to be thought of for a wager in this race. This gelding has been performing against some of the most competitive horses in this grouping of late. Have to make Macdonald the wager here if only for the last thirty days win percent. Big chance for the trip to the winner's circle. STIRLING CADILLAC - The number crunching team noted a very promising showing out of this standardbred last time. Looking for a repeat of that to dominate. Reason to like this gelding as he has in the sulky one of the top drivers in win percentage the past month. COOL LIKE FIRE - Comes into this competition with really good TrackMaster class stats as compared to the field - worth a look. Could most definitely better this group given the 85 TrackMaster speed fig achieved in his last race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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

Race 5 - Post: 8:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 75 - Purse:$20000 - NON-WINNERS OF 4 P-M RACES OR $40,000 LIFETIME. 2,3& 4 YEAR OLD FILLIES & MARES
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 4 IDEAL PRINCESS 7/5
# 2 SHORTSTORY HANOVER 4/1
# 5 TRACEY'S DESIRE 12/1

IDEAL PRINCESS has a very nice shot to take this contest. Horoscope said take a chance today, this race horse is as good as any to take a shot with. Had one of the most favorable speed ratings of the race in her last race. Must use in your bets. With Bartlett in the cart, watch out for this race horse to get the win. SHORTSTORY HANOVER - Her 82 avg has this filly among the best speed figs for this race. The 81 avg class stat may give this filly a distinct advantage in the field. TRACEY'S DESIRE - This fine animal may have some hidden form, a score would be a pleasant surprise.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mahoning Valley Race Course

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


Race 6 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $8600 Class Rating: 69

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 28 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 8 IWANTAPRONOTION 6/1

# 7 DRAMA PRINCESS 5/1

# 5 COLOR ME BLUSH 5/2

IWANTAPRONOTION looks very strong to best this field. Her 60 average has this filly with among the strongest speed figs for this event. This filly has a strong winning percentage in dirt sprint races. Has very good Equibase Class Figures relative to this group of animals - worth a look. COLOR ME BLUSH - Could best this group based on the speed rating - 67 - of her last affair.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Turf Paradise

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


Race 3 - Allowance - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $14000 Class Rating: 90

FOR CERTIFIED ARIZONA BREDS) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 28 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 28 ALLOWED 4 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 8 RISKY VENTURE 3/1

# 5 STONEYS MR CRUISER 9/2

# 7 BET THE HARBOR 5/1

RISKY VENTURE has a respectable shot to take this race. Should be given consideration here on the basis of the figs in the speed department alone. This gelding obviously likes the distance, going 1 out of 4 in his races lately. Has been running admirably lately and should be close to the lead early on. STONEYS MR CRUISER - Overall, has one of the best earnings per start in dirt sprint events in this field. His 77 average has this colt with among the top Equibase Speed Figures in this contest. BET THE HARBOR - The average Equibase class figure alone makes this entrant a definite contender. He has recorded solid figs under today's conditions and ought to fare well versus this group.