Monday 12/19/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tennessee State Tigers (8-2) at Duke Blue Devils (10-1)

Date: December 19, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

DURHAM, N.C. -- Duke reached this segment of the season with the notion that it will be a recharged team.

And perhaps reloading as well.

The fifth-ranked Blue Devils have been idle for more than a week for final exams but return to action Monday night against Tennessee State.

This has been one of the potential targeted dates for the debut of heralded forward Harry Giles, the most coveted recruit in the freshman class. He has been out since a surgical procedure in September, with the Blue Devils willing to bring him along at a conservative pace.

Coach Mike Krzyzewski said mid-December was a logical time to consider that Giles might be ready for game action.

Duke (10-1) has won eight games in a row but hasn't played since demolishing UNLV 94-55 on Dec. 10.

Junior guard Grayson Allen scored a career-high 34 points in the game against UNLV, a rather premature outburst in some respects because he has been dealing with an array of ailments.

"I think over the exam period is a time where, and then maybe Christmas, where we can get him closer to 100 percent and then hopefully work these guys in a little bit," Krzyzewski said.

Freshman Jayson Tatum has averaged 15 points and seven rebounds in the three games he has played for the Blue Devils since a preseason foot injury. Post player Marques Bolden also has played in three games in a more limited capacity.

"Everyone has to be able to contribute and help us, but right now I think we can smile a little bit and be happy that we got some of our guys back," Duke forward Amile Jefferson said.

Sophomore guard Luke Kennard leads Duke in scoring at 20 points per game.

As more players become available, it will be a juggling act of sorts as Krzyzewski has two games remaining before the Atlantic Coast Conference schedule kicks in.

"We've got to keep finding minutes for these guys," Krzyzewski said. "We've got to put this thing together while we're playing games."

This game marks Duke's only home outing during a five-game stretch. This is the last nonconference home as the Blue Devils try to tack one more on their NCAA-best 131 home out-of-conference winning streak.

This is the third of four road games this month for Tennessee State (8-2).

Tigers coach Dana Ford said it's obvious Duke has a special operation.

"I think they are the best team in America," Ford said. " ... Everything is first class. They're champions. You don't even have to know people inside the program to tell what you are dealing with."

Tennessee State is off to an 8-2 start for the second season in a row. However, the Tigers are winless in nine previous meetings against teams in the ACC.

That includes a 67-55 overtime loss on Dec. 10 at North Carolina State. Since then, the Tigers whipped Alabama State 68-46, allowing only 13 first-half points.

This will be the first meeting between Tennessee State and Duke. The Tigers are 1-33 all time against Top 25 opponents in Division I.

"We'll try to put together the best game plan available to give our guys the best chance to go out there and win the next game," Ford said. "We are just very appreciative, our entire university, our program and our alums, that we are going to have the opportunity to play at Cameron Indoor Stadium against a first-class program."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Delaware State Hornets (3-9) at Indiana Hoosiers (8-2)

Date: December 19, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- After a humbling loss the Indiana Hoosiers return home, where they've been unbeatable, as the Delaware State Hornets visit Simon Skolt Assembly Hall on Monday.

Hoosiers coach Tom Crean bemoaned his team's lack of defense in an 83-78 loss to No. 18 Butler in Saturday's Crossroads Classic at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The defeat will undoubtedly drop Indiana down the rankings when the latest poll is announced Monday.

"We just didn't guard well enough," Crean said.

Indiana (8-2) had been proficient at shooting and defending against 3-pointers, but did neither well against the Bulldogs. The Hoosiers missed their first eight 3-pointers and allowed Butler to make 7 of 14 as Indiana trailed by 14 at halftime.

"Really, it was a mindset thing, energy thing," junior guard James Blackmon Jr. said. "That was what we were upset about, the way we came out in the first half."

If recent history is an indicator, Monday will be a different story.

Indiana is 7-0 at home this season and looking to extend its home winning streak to 25 games, which would tie for fifth longest in program history. The closest any team has come while visiting the Hoosiers' home floor this season was then-No. 3 North Carolina, which lost 76-67. Since 2011-12, the Hoosiers are 88-11 (.888) at home, best in the Big Ten.

Delaware State also lost on Saturday, 85-66 at Binghamton (N.Y.). The Hornets (3-9) are just 1-8 away from home.

The Hoosiers are averaging 86.6 points per game while allowing 67.4 points, hence Crean's disappointment in the recent defensive effort. The Hornets are averaging just 68.7 points and allowing 75.9 per game.

For the season, Indiana is 91 of 240 (.379) from 3-point range while opponents have made 60 of 220 (.273). Delaware State has hit 99 of 253 (.391) from beyond the arc while opponents have converted 104 of 296 (.351).

Indiana junior forward OG Anunoby was rusty in his return after a three-game absence due to a sprained left ankle. He scored seven points and grabbed seven rebounds against Butler, which dropped his scoring average to 11.7 per game.

Blackmon, who scored a team-high 26 against the Bulldogs, is Indiana's leading scorer at 17.9 points per game. Junior guard Robert Johnson averages 12.9 and sophomore center Thomas Bryant is at 12.2.

Delaware State is led by sophomore guard Devin Morgan at 13.8 points per game, but he attempted just four shots in finishing with six points Saturday. He was the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Rookie-of-the-Year last season.

Hornets junior forward Kavon Waller averages 11.5 and senior guard DeAndre Haywood is at 10.8.

Kevin Walker is in his third full season of coaching Delaware State, which upset St. Johns 79-72 on the road on Nov. 29.

The Hoosiers' two losses came against in-state schools, the other in overtime at Fort Wayne. Their eight wins also include knocking off then-No. 3 Kansas in the season opener at Hawaii.

The Hornets and Hoosiers are meeting for the first time.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cornell Big Red (2-6) at USC Trojans (10-0)

Date: December 19, 2016 10:30 PM EDT

USC will try to build on its best start in nearly half a century when the 24th-ranked Trojans play host to Cornell on Monday night at the Galen Center in Los Angeles.

USC (10-0) escaped with its unbeaten record intact after a dramatic 82-77 victory over Troy on Saturday night. The Trojans haven't been undefeated at this point in a season since going 16-0 to begin the 1970-71 campaign.

Cornell (2-6) hasn't enjoyed nearly as much success. The Big Red have lost three of its last four games and is coming off a 97-78 loss to Wyoming.

Cornell is likely to encounter a very motivated USC squad after the Trojans survived a scare against Troy. USC trailed at the half for just the second time this season. The Trojans fell behind by 10, trailed by nine with 12:35 to play and were down by three with 1:18 remaining, but Jordan McLaughlin and Chimezie Metu made crucial plays in the final 1:03 to help them prevail.

"We have to come out every game and focus and lock in to that game," Metu said.

McLaughlin presented a different perspective, saying the team could benefit from a comeback victory. The Trojans, who was still missing injured starter Bennie Boatwright, have had five comebacks of at least nine points in their 10 wins this season.

"It was huge to get a win like this," McLaughlin said. "We know we can (rally). It's good for our young guys to get this out of the way. It was big. It helps us mature. Everyone was making big plays down the stretch."

USC coach Andy Enfield praised McLaughlin and Metu for their efforts late in the game. McLaughlin finished with 21 points. Metu had 18 points and eight rebounds.

"Jordan was dominant tonight in the second half to help us win and so was Chimezie," Enfield said. "We're going to do this by committee this year. Our starting lineup has to do a better job of defending and getting us out to a lead."

Elijah Stewart is averaging a team-high 16.5 points and 5.7 rebounds for USC. McLaughlin averages 13.4 points and 4.8 assists. Metu, the team's leading rebounder, is averaging 12.9 points and eight rebounds.

Matt Morgan is leading Cornell in scoring and rebounding, averaging 18.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Stone Gettings is averaging 12 points and 5.1 rebounds. Robert Hatter averages 10 points, 4.5 rebounds and a team-high 2.6 assists.

Cornell is led by first-year coach Brian Earl, who was hired to replace Bill Courtney after the Big Red went 10-18 last season. Players have embraced the change in coaching styles even if it hasn't translated into success yet.

"Last year, it was more listening to the coaches and doing what they wanted rather than listening to each other," Morgan told The Cornell Daily Sun. "We are the ones on the court and we might see things differently than they might see. (Earl has) done a good job of listening to us, and, at the same time, we listen to him just as much."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Monday’s best 13 games

Eastern Michigan is coached by former Syracuse assistant; the 2-3 zone is no secret to ehm. Eagles are 3-4 vs D-I teams, losing by 3-27-8 points to teams ranked in top 110- their best win was over #164 Omaha. Syracuse lost at home to Georgetown Saturday; they’re 1-4 vs top 100 teams, wth only win by 21 over Monmouth. Orange lost four of last six games; they’re shooting 40.1% on arc (#26), have #16 eFG% defense but some of that is from playing in a dome. ACC home favorites are 34-21 vs spread; MAC road underdogs are 18-16.

LSU is 7-2 vs schedule #232; they’re #326 experience team- Tigers are 6-0 at home, 2-2 vs top 100 teams, with losses to Wichita/VCU on neutral floor in Bahamas. Charleston is 8-3 vs schedule #192; they’re #295 experience team that is forcing turnovers 22.9% of time (#31) but shooting just 28.7% (#329) in arc. Cougars play pace #342; they allowed Wake Forest is only team that scored more than 68 points against them. SEC home favorites are 24-26 against the spread; CAA road underdogs are 16-9.

SMU won 85-70 at Stanford LY, shooting 59.6% inside arc; Mustangs are 8-3 vs schedule #164; their bench is in bottom 10 in country in minutes, which is why one of their subs quit last week. SMU lost by 5 at USC of Pac-12 last month; they’re 3-3 vs top 100 teams, beating TCU by 15 in last one. Stanford is 7-3 vs schedule #41, losing three of four top 50 games- they lost at Kansas by 15 in only true road game. Cardinal has #302 eFG%. AAC home favorites are 12-9 vs spread; Pac-12 underdogs are 10-15 away from home.

Colorado State was 32-42 on foul line in 83-75 home win over LMU last year; Lions were 12-16 on line in game LMU led by 3 at half. Rams are 4-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, winning by 11-8-22-17 points; they’re starting three sophs, two seniors, an odd mix. LMU won its last two games by one point each; they lost by 15 at Nevada, won by 1 at Northridge in only two true road games. Mountain West home favorites are 16-12 vs spread; WCC road underdogs are 9-9. LMU coach Dunlap won D-II national title in Colorado with Metro State.

Mississippi State is 6-3 vs schedule #305; they’re 4-0 vs teams ranked outside top 200, winning by 4-7-6-17 points. Bulldogs are forcing turnovers 21.4% of time- they start two frosh, two sophs, are least experienced team in country. Southern Miss hasn’t played in nine days; they lost their last four games, by 23-11-49-7 points. Eagles are turning ball over 22.6% of time, are shooting 26.7% on arc- they lost to LSU by 17 in only other games vs SEC foe. SEC home favorites are 24-26 vs spread; C-USA road underdogs are 22-23.

Troy is #91 experience team that lost 82-77 at unbeaten USC Saturday- they led USC by 10 early in second half. Troy is 1-4 on road with only win by hoop at Hawai’i; their only other top 200 game was 23-point loss at UAB. Wyoming won its last five games including a win at Northern Iowa; Cowboys are 2-1 vs teams outside top 200, with wins by 19-10 and a loss at Pacific. Wyoming is starting four juniors and a senior with a new coach. Mountain West home favorites are 16-12 vs spread; Sun Belt road underdogs are 15-22.

Colorado beat Air Force the last five years, the last four all by 11+ points; Buffaloes won by 13 at Portland, lost by 8 at BYU in only true road games. Colorado has #23 eFG% defense but doesn’t force lot of turnovers. Air Force lost five of last six games but only one of the losses was by more than nine points; Falcons lost by 9 to Akron in only top 100 game- their best win is over #133 Missouri State. Air Force is making 44.1% of its 3’s, #2 in country. Pac-12 favorites are 11-9 away from home; Mountain West home underdogs are 4-3.

UNLV got drilled in second half at Oregon Saturday, has Kansas coming in Thursday; this is big game for them to avoid losing streak heading into league play, against Southern Illinois squad that is 6-5 vs schedule #209- Salukis are 1-3 in true road games, with only win at school that is outside top 300. UNLV is 6-5 vs schedule #309; they’re 0-4 vs top 200 teams, but three of those losses were to top 50 teams. SIU starts two sophs, two seniors; they’re #72 experience team. Mountain West home favorites are 16-12 vs spread; MVC road underdogs are 7-9.

Coastal Carolina was 7-11 on arc, shot 57% inside arc in 71-63 win at Wofford LY; CCU was u 17 in first half- they’re 5-7 this year vs schedule #120 in their first year as a Sun Belt team; Chanticleers won by 3-15-30 in their only three games vs teams ranked outside top 150. Wofford is 1-7 vs D-I teams with three non-D-I wins; Terriers split pair of games vs teams outside top 200- they’ve played schedule #29 to this point. Sun Belt home favorites are 7-7 vs spread; SoCon road underdogs are 18-13.

Furman is 2-5 in games decided by 6 or less points; their last three games (2-1) were all decided by 3 or less. Paladins are 3-3 in true road games, winning last two at Liberty/Gardner-Webb (which just beat Nebraska). Tennessee Tech is 2-9 vs schedule #221; they’re 0-6 vs top 200 teams, only two D-I wins over Alabama A&M, rated worst team in country. That said, Tech lost by 8 at Michigan State, by 6 at Tennessee; they must have some talent. SoCon favorites are 6-2 away from home; OVC home underdogs are 4-7.

Oral Roberts lost by point to unbeaten Creighton Saturday; Eagles were outscored 6-0 over final 5:09 of game. Despite that encouraging score, ORU is 0-10 vs D-I teams this year with five top 100 losses. Little Rock is 9-2 vs schedule #344; their losses are to Idaho/Pepperdine. Trojans won by 2-5 points in only two true road games at Central Arkansas/Northern Arizona. UALR is forcing turnovers 21.2% of time- they have game at Florida on Wednesday. Sun Belt favorites are 6-6 away from home; Summit League home underdogs are 1-3 agains the spread.

Belmont’s game at Green Bay over weekend was postponed by weather; Bruins are #47 experience team that is shooting only 29.9% on arc, way worse than they usually do. Belmont was 0-2 vs Horizon teams LY, with two losses by total of six points. Milwaukee is 3-8 vs schedule #98; they’re 0-4 vs teams in top 150, with losses by 14-24-16-2 points. Panthers lost last three games; they’re starting two frosh and a sophomore, have #330 eFG% defense. OVC favorites are 5-1 away from home; Horizon home underdogs are 5-2.

Drake is 0-9 vs D-I teams after losing to Iowa State by 17 Saturday; its coach already quit- they are 0-3 vs teams ranked #200 or lower, losing by 6-6-5 points. Five of Drake’s last six losses were by 6 or less points. South Dakota State won four of last five D-I games after an 0-6 start; Jackrabbits are 3-1 vs teams outside top 200 but are 0-5 in true road games. State won its last two games by total of seven points, beating Murray State in OT last game. MVC home favorites are 18-12 vs spread; Summit League road underdogs are 21-22.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Chippewas (6-6) at Golden Hurricane (9-3)

Date: December 19, 2016 2:30 PM EDT

Central Michigan coach John Bonamego confessed he had some homework to do when it was announced that the Chippewas were playing Tulsa in the Miami Beach Bowl.

"I don't know much about Tulsa yet," he said, "but I know we'll face a high-powered offense."

Indeed, the Golden Hurricane (9-3) will bring the nation's sixth-most productive offense in the country to Marlins Park in Miami to face the Chippewas (6-6) at 2:30 p.m. Monday with ESPN handling the telecast.

In just his second season, coach Philip Montgomery has guided his Tulsa crew to churn out yardage at a 522.6-yard-per-game clip, which ranks No. 6 in FBS statistics nationally. Not only that, the former Baylor offensive coordinator has the Golden Hurricane on the verge of becoming the first FBS program to feature a 3,000-yard passer, two 1,000-yard rushers and two 1,000-yard receivers.

Tulsa already is the just the fifth team with a 3,000-yard passer (quarterback Dane Evans with 3,044), two 1,000-yard rushers (running backs James Flanders with 1,529 and D'Angelo Brewer with 1,330) and a 1,000-yard receiver (wide receiver Keenan Lucas with 1,108).

Wide receiver Josh Atkinson goes into the game needing just 73 yards in catches to hit 1,000.

"I'm not a big stat guy," Montgomery said. "But this is one that's out there. It's never been done. To have the opportunity to do it just doesn't come along very often."

Montgomery said he won't alter his approach to the game to go for the mark -- "Don't let the horse buck you there. Let's stay in the saddle and finish this thing up," is the colorful way he put it -- because getting to the 10-win level for the 10th time in program history takes priority.

"That's what our focus is," Montgomery said. "We've talked about it. Teams that are excited about bowl season, that are fired up about going to the bowl, those are the ones that usually play well. And our guys are excited about it."

The Chippewas have a little motivation of their own. They will be playing in their third consecutive bowl, but they have lost their last two postseason appearances, including a 21-14 loss to Minnesota in last season's Quick Lane Bowl, Bonamego's first at CMU.

"We want to win, get a bowl ring, hold a trophy -- something we haven't been able to do," senior quarterback Cooper Rush said. "It's definitely on our mind."

Rush figures to play a key role if that is to happen. He has passed for nearly 275 yards per game and 23 touchdowns with junior wide receiver Corey Rush accounting for 1,028 yards and nine touchdowns on a team-high 69 receptions.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday's Bowl Tip Sheet
By Joe Williams

**Tulsa vs. Central Michigan**

-- The lone bowl game Monday takes place at Marlins Park in Miami, Fla., as Mid-American Conference (MAC) representative Central Michigan (6-6 straight up, 5-7 against the spread) enters as a heavy underdog against Tulsa (9-3 straight up, 8-4 ATS) of the American Athletic Conference (AAC). The Golden Hurricane of Tulsa are listed as a 12 1/2-point favorite as of Sunday morning with a total just shy of 70.

-- Central Michigan fired out to a 3-0 record this season, including their memorable and controversial last-second victory at Oklahoma State Sept. 10. The Chippewas also started 3-0 ATS, but ended up covering just two of their final nine outings. In addition, the Chips posted just one victory in their final five regular season games, although it was an impressive 27-20 win over Ohio, a MAC Championship Game participant and current bowl team. The Chippewas managed to win two times in six games away from home, posting a 2-4 ATS mark on the road. Against bowl teams this season the Chippewas managed a 2-4 SU/ATS mark. CMU appeared to shoot their wad in a triple-overtime victory over Northern Illinois back on Oct. 15, as they were 5-2 SU/4-3 ATS at that point, but they fizzled hard down the stretch. The Chips were able to score 30 or more points in each of their first four games, but hit the mark just once in the final eight games, and that was the triple-overtime outing against NIU. Meanwhile CMU's defense went south down the stretch, giving up 28.2 points per game (PPG) in their final five outings.

-- CMU might not even be in a position for a bowl appearance if not for their controversial win in Stillwater. The Cowboys of Oklahoma State snapped the ball, threw the ball deep and out of bounds in an attempt to kill the clock. Oklahoma State was whistled for intentional grounding, which was the proper call. However, MAC officials incorrectly awarded the Chips an untimed down, which they converted into a miraculous 51-yard Hail Mary for score. After the game, officials admitted the game should have been over and the storybook finish should never have taken place. As it stands, both Oklahoma State and Central Michigan ended up bowling.

-- Central Michigan had a rather prolific pass attempt this season, posting 275.8 yards per game through the air to rank 26th in the nation. However, they managed just 119.2 yards per game on the ground to check in 116th in the country while posting 27.7 PPG and 395.1 total yards per game which were both middle of the pack. QB Cooper Rush was the story on offense, completing 61.0 percent of his passes for 3,292 yards with 23 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. He wasn't a dual-threat quarterback, though, posting minus-13 yards with one score on 62 rush attempts.

-- When CMU wants to run the ball, it is RBs Devon Spalding (shoulder) and Jahray Hayes handling the totes. Spalding is a question mark for Monday's game due to a shoulder injury. If he cannot play it would be a huge hole in the offense, as he posted three of his six regular season touchdowns in the season finale at Eastern Michigan. Hayes also visited the end zone three times in the final three games, but he operated more like the hammer in short-yardage situations. If he is forced to shoulder more of the load, pun totally intended, the Chips would definitely not be firing on all cylinders in the run game.

-- The Chippewas were double-digit underdogs twice this season. Their one cover, even if not for the controversial ending, was at Oklahoma State Sept. 10. They failed to cover a 10-point number in a conference loss at Toledo Oct. 22 to kick off their 1-4 ATS slide to end the season.

-- Tulsa (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS) had a lot more consistency in their season, and they never lost back-to-back games at any point during the season. While Tulsa was completely outplayed Sept. 10 at Ohio State in a 48-3 loss, on the same day as CMU's big win at Oklahoma State, they were able to survive and advance in the following three weeks, including overtime wins at Fresno State and at home against Southern Methodist.

-- Tulsa's season wasn't without controversy, either, although they were on the short end of the stick in their most memorable game Oct. 15. Tulsa was tied with Houston 31-31 with 3:31 to go, but the Cougars pulled ahead on a 24-yard fumble recovery for touchdown to take a 38-31 lead with 81 seconds remaining in regulation. The Golden Hurricane drove down to the 2-yard line in the closing seconds of regulation. QB Dane Evans hit Jesse Brubaker on a short pass and he reached for the goal line and appeared to be in, sending the game potentially to overtime. However, after further review officials determined Brubaker was short and the ball did not cross the plane before time ran out, handing Tulsa a gut-wrenching loss at TDECU Stadium in Houston.

-- The difficult loss seemed to galvanize the Golden Hurricane, as they won five of their final six regular season games while going 6-1 ATS over their final seven outings. Tulsa ranked No. 5 in the country in total yards with 523.2 yards per game, buoyed by a strong rushing attack ranking eighth in the country with 262.4 yards per game. The Golden Hurricane averaged 41.4 PPG to rank 11th in the country, too.

-- Evans threw for 3,044 yard with 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, jelling nicely with WRs Keevan Lucas and Josh Atkinson for big numbers. Lucas led the team with 74 receptions, 1,108 yards and 15.0 yards per reception while also finding the end zone a team-high 12 times. Atkinson was right on his tail with 66 grabs for 927 yards and seven scores. WR Justin Hobbs emerged as an outstanding tertiary receiving option, hauling in 47 receptions for 657 yards and four scores while equaling Atkinson with 14.0 yards per catch.

-- In the run game, James Flanders gobbled up huge chunks of real estate, running for 6.3 yards per carry on 241 totes, leading the team wiht 1,529 yards and 17 forays into the end zone. D'Angelo Brewer was not only a complement, but an equal in a two-headed rushing attack. He rolled for 1,330 yards with seven scores on 247 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per game. Evans, like CMU's Rush, is a drop-back passer and not a dual-threat, but he was able to find the end zone four times with his feet.

-- Tulsa is looking for a better outcome than their showing last season in the Independence Bowl. They were outscored 55-52 in Frank Beamer's swan song game against Virginia Tech. Their last victory in the postseason came in 2012 when they topped Iowa State 31-17 to win the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, posting their 10th victory of the season that year. The Golden Hurricane have won four of their past six bowl games, covering five of the outings.

-- For Central Michigan, they have managed just three all-time bowl victories, with their last win coming in the Little Caesars Bowl in 2012 against Western Kentucky. The Chips have allowed 21 or more points in all but one of their nine bowl games since their postseason debut in 1990. They have also scored at least 21 points in eight of their nine bowl games, posting a low of 14 points last season in the Quick Lane Bowl in a loss against Minnesota.

-- These teams last met Oct. 17, 1987, with Central Michigan topping Tulsa 41-18.

-- Central Michigan is 8-2 ATS in their past 10 non-conference games, but they're just 1-4 ATS in their past five against teams with a winning record and 1-4 ATS in their past five games overall.

-- Tulsa covered six of their final seven games overall, they're 4-1 ATS in their past five neutral-site games and they are 5-2-1 ATS in their past eight against non-conference foes.

-- The 'under' is 8-0 in the past eight for Central Michigan against teams with a winning overall record.

-- The 'under' is 6-1 in Tulsa's past seven neutral site games, and 6-2 in their past eight bowl appearances. The under is also 4-0 in the past four for the Golden Hurricane against MAC foes.

-- Kickoff is slated for 2:30 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Miami Beach Bowl betting preview: Central Michigan vs Tulsa

Central Michigan Chippewas vs Tulsa Golden Hurricane (-12.5, 69.5)

Central Michigan, which counted a very controversial 30-27 non-conference victory at Oklahoma State among its six wins to become bowl eligible, will face another team from the Sooner state - high-scoring Tulsa - in the Miami Beach Bowl on Dec. 19 at Marlins Park, home of Major League Baseball's Miami Marlins. The Chippewas made national news with their memorable no-time-on-the-clock, hook-and-ladder Hail Mary touchdown to upset Oklahoma State in Stillwater, Okla., on Sept. 10. After the game, it was determined the MAC officiating crew - which later was suspended - had made a mistake by giving Central Michigan an extra untimed down with no time remaining after Oklahoma State was called for intentional grounding on fourth down.

That improbable win over the Cowboys came in very handy for Central Michigan, which lost four of its final five games - including a 26-21 heartbreaker to Eastern Michigan in its regular-season finale on a long touchdown pass with 21 seconds left. Without the Oklahoma State victory in its hip pocket, Central Michigan would be spending mid-December in chilly Mount Pleasant, Mich. instead of sunny Miami, where coach John Bonamego was special teams coordinator for the Dolphins from 2008-10. "It's got to be in the top five in destinations for a bowl game," Bonamego told reporters. "There's a tremendous amount of culture down there. It's a great destination ... a lot of good people, a lot of good friends."

Tulsa finished second to Navy in the American Athletic Conference West Division. The Golden Hurricane's three losses came against the Midshipmen (42-40), Houston (38-31) and Ohio State (48-3). Coached by former Houston and Baylor offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery, Tulsa ranks sixth nationally in total offense (522.8 yards), eighth in rushing offense (261.8) and 11th in scoring (41.4 points), and will be going up against a Central Michigan defense that ranked 43rd in total defense (376.2).

TV: 2:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: Tulsa opened as 11.5-point favorites over Central Michigan. That number wasn't high enough for the betting public and was bet up a full point to 12.5. The total hit the board at 68 and went up to 70.5, before settling at 70. View complete line history here.

WHAT SHARPS SAY: "Tulsa is close to a two-touchdown favorite here and probably for good reason as these teams closed the season going in opposite directions. The Golden Hurricane finished on a 5-1 run with the only loss coming against Navy by just two points and they outgained all six of those opponents. It should be noted however that Tulsa had three wins come in overtime and all of those were against non-bowling teams. Central Michigan lost four of its last five games after a 5-2 start so it comes in with very little momentum. This is a big number however and double-digit underdogs in lesser bowls usually fare
well so the Chippewas could stay within this number even though Tulsa is the much more talented team." - Matt Fargo

WEATHER REPORT: It should be a beautiful night for football at Marlins Park in Miami. The forecast is calling for sunny skies, minimal winds and temperatures in the low 80’s.

INJURY REPORT:

Central Michigan - DB Amari Coleman (questionable, knee), RB Devon Spalding (questionable, shoulder)

Tulsa - CB Keanu Hill (questionable, knee)

ABOUT THE CHIPPEWAS (6-6 SU, 5-7 ATS, 6-6 O/U): The Chippewas are led by senior quarterback Cooper Rush, who has completed 254-of-416 passes for 3,299 yards and 23 touchdowns. Wideout Corey Willis is his favorite target with 1,028 yards receiving and nine touchdowns while Devon Spalding is the team's top rusher with 737 yards and six scores on 131 carries despite missing two games. Cornerback Amari Coleman, who led the MAC in passes defended (19) and tied for first in the conference with four interceptions, and inside linebacker Malik Fountain (84 tackles, 10 tackles for loss) both were First Team All-MAC selections.

ABOUT THE GOLDEN HURRICANE (9-3 SU, 8-4 ATS, 8-4 O/U): The Golden Hurricane feature two 1,000-yard rushers in senior James Flanders (1,529) and D'Angelo Brewer (1,330), who finished 1-2 in the AAC, a 3,000-yard passer in senior Dane Evans (3,044) and a 1,000-yard receiver in senior Keevan Lucas (1,108). If senior wide receiver Josh Atkinson (927) reaches the 1,000-yard mark in the bowl game, Tulsa would become the first team in FBS history with a 3,000-yard passer, two 1,000-yard rushers and two 1,000-yard receivers. Senior linebacker Trent Martin leads the defense in tackles (94) and interceptions (two) while defensive lineman Jesse Brubaker tops the team in tackles for loss with 12.5 - including 4.5 sacks - to go along with 54 tackles.

TRENDS:

* Chippewas are 1-4 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
* Golden Hurricane are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall.
* Over is 6-1 in Chippewas last 7 games on grass.
* Over is 6-1 in Golden Hurricane last 7 games following a straight up win.
* Over is 13-3 in Golden Hurricane last 16 games after allowing more than 450 total yards in their previous game.

CONSENSUS: The public is backing Tulsa with 61 percent of wagers on the Golden Hurricane. The over is getting 61 percent of the action.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAF

Bowl game writeups

Dec 19
Miami Beach Bowl: Central Michigan-Tulsa
Central Michigan lost 49-48/21-14 in bowls last two years; Chippewas are 3-6 overall in bowls, with four of last five decided by 3 or less points. CMU is 4-2 in games decided by 7 or less points. Tulsa is over .500 for first time in four years; they’re 3-2 in last five bowls, losing 55-52 to Va Tech LY. Chippewas lost four of last five games but did win at Oklahoma State; CMU is 1-2 as an underdog this year, 2-3 in games with double digit spread. Tulsa is 4-4 as a favorite this year, 2-4 vs number in games with double digit spread- they allowed 30+ points in six of last nine games. Favorite won/covered this bowl in first two years, with totals of 80-103. Weather isn’t a factor, being domed stadium. AAC non-conference favorites are 10-8 vs spread; MAC underdogs are 15-11.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Dogs to Watch - Week 15

We've hit the homestretch of the NFL campaign and teams everywhere are doing what they can to stay in the playoff hunt. There are plenty of teams still alive in both conferences and that makes for some very interesting games (and point spreads) this week. We've got plenty of teams getting 4 points or more on the line and there's no question that at least one or two of them are more than capable of pulling off the outright upset.

Underdogs That Qualify

Carolina Panthers (+6); ML (+220)

Of the 10 teams on this list, putting ML wagers on Indianapolis (+170), Jacksonville (+220), Carolina (+220), Tennessee (+205), and Tampa Bay (+255) should see you go at least 2-3 SU and wrangle up some profits.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday Night Football betting preview: Carolina at Washington

Carolina Panthers at Washington (-6.5, 50.5)

How much of an impact Josh Norman's decision to leave Carolina via free agency had on the team will never be known, but one thing is certain: The Panthers will need a miracle to return to the postseason. Sitting three games out of the final playoff spot in the NFC with three to play, Carolina will pay a visit to Norman and the Washington Redskins on Monday night.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera said his team has "no room for error" and quarterback Cam Newton insisted going up against Norman, who signed a $75 million, five-year deal with the Redskins, is not part of the game plan. "It's not a game about him vs. us," Newton said. "We just need to win this game." Washington is not in as precarious a situation as Carolina but still faces an uphill climb, trailing Tampa Bay by one-half game for the sixth seed in the NFC. The Redskins suffered their worst loss of the 2015 season with a 44-16 beating at Carolina 13 months ago.

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

POWER RANKINGS: Carolina (2) - Washington (-1) + home field (-3) = Washington -2

LINE HISTORY: Washington opened as 4.5-home favorites and the public quickly jumped on the home team - bumping the line up two-full points to 6.5. The total hit the board at 51 and has been faded half-point to 50.5.

WEATHER REPORT: The forecast for FedEx Field on Monday night is calling for partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the high-20’s at kickoff. There will also be a 2-7 mph winds from the north just to make things a little more frosty.

WHAT BOOKS SAY: “We had Washington listed as a -4.5 point favourite Sunday night and by Monday afternoon it was up to Redskins-5 , and Wednesday we were up to -6 and finally settling in on our current number of Washington -6.5 where we are seeing just over 55% of the Action on the Redskins to cover.” - Michael Stewart.

INJURIES:

Carolina - LB Luke Kuechly (probable, concussion), K Graham Gano (probable, heel), QB Cam Newton (probable, shoulder), WR Kelvin Benjamin (questionable, back), OT Daryl Williams (questionable, ankle), DE Charles Johnson (questionable, hamstring), LB David Mayo (questionable, concussion)

Washington - TE Jordan Reed (probable, shoulder), DE Chris Baker (questionable, ankle), RB Mack Brown (questionable, concussion), LB Ryan Kerrigan (questionable, knee), OT Ty Nsekhe (questionable, ankle), LB Martrell Spaight (questionable, shoulder), P Tress Way (questionable, ankle), RB Matt Jones (questionable, knee), G Spencer Long (questionable, concussion), S Will Blackmon (questionable, concussion), G Shawn Lauvao (questionable, groin), L Will Compton (questionable, knee), S Su’a Cravens (doubtful, bicep)

ABOUT CAROLINA (5-8 SU, 4-8-1 ATS, 7-6 O/U): Although Carolina is coming off a 28-16 victory over San Diego, its playoff hopes went on life support following a disastrous two-game West Coast trip in which its defense was carved up for 75 points in losses at Oakland and Seattle. Star middle linebacker Luke Kuechly, sidelined for the past three games, has practiced fully for the past three days but remains in the NFL's concussion protocol. Newton, dealing with a sore throwing shoulder that limited him in practice this week, has only 15 touchdown passes after tossing a career-high 35 last season and has failed to reach 200 yards in the air in three of the past four games. Carolina has amassed a league-best 39 sacks.

ABOUT WASHINGTON (7-5-1 SU, 9-4 ATS, 11-2 O/U): Washington coach Jay Gruden is not worried about Norman being overly amped up to face his former team, which allowed him to walk as a free agent after pulling back the franchise tag. "The good thing with Josh is that it doesn't vary week to week," Gruden said. "He gets up for everybody. That's the beauty of him. That's why he's such a great player, because he doesn't discriminate as far as him and his emotions and his level of intensity for game day." Quarterback Kirk Cousins has surpassed 4,000 yards for the second straight season and could get a boost with tight end Jordan Reed (shoulder), limited to one catch last week. Washington has won three straight at home, averaging 33 points.

TRENDS:

* Panthers are 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 road games.
* Panthers are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS win.
* Washington are 8-2 ATS vs. a team with a losing record.
* Over is 13-3 in Panthers last 16 vs. a team with a winning record.
* Underdog is 9-2 ATS in their last 11 meetings.

CONSENESUS: The public is split 50/50 on the betting line. The over is getting 59 percent of the action.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Panthers (5-8) at Redskins (7-5)

Date: December 19, 2016 8:30 PM EDT

The matchup Monday night between the Carolina Panthers and host Washington Redskins has playoff implications with three games to go in the regular season.

Yet there's another topic that naturally has been making the rounds leading up to the game in Landover, Md. (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN).

That's the role of Redskins cornerback Josh Norman, who played with the Panthers and was the focal point of the secondary until he wasn't retained in the spring.

Now Norman goes against his former team. At least the Panthers don't expect any surprises from the often-flamboyant and talkative defensive back.

"I think the guys know what to expect from Josh," Carolina coach Ron Rivera said. "That's the beauty of it."

The Redskins don't want Norman or anything else to be a distraction because it's a critical time for them as they try to stay in line for an NFC wild card spot. Close games have become part of the process for Washington (7-5-1).

"With the parity in the NFL, we keep grinding it out and it's what we expect," Redskins coach Jay Gruden said.

The Panthers have been complimentary of Norman, noting that he became a high-level player with them the past couple of years.

"He listened and he learned and he grew," Rivera said of Norman said. "Those long arms of his come into play. ... The way he practiced improved the level of play around him. He brought a swagger to us. Guys feed off of that and that's what happened."

Carolina quarterback Cam Newton said he can't become consumed with Norman's actions.

"It's not a game about him vs. us," Newton said. "We just need to win this game."

Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins consulted with Norman months ago about some of what to expect from Carolina's defense.

"It really goes back to the spring," Cousins said. "We talked some about the coverages and stuff, but at the end of the day it's about executing."

Cousins was in the same pre-draft training group a few years ago with Norman, so they had a connection prior to become teammates.

"What I've always loved about him is that he's a worker," Cousins said. "Winning matters to him. He has been a part of a winning team. He knows what that looks like."

Cousins looks like a different quarterback at times as he continues to develop and might be directing a playoff-bound team.

"I see him building his confidence," Rivera said. "I see him making good decisions. I see why they like who he is. To me, it all starts with Kirk Cousins. He has really come along. ... They've got play makers and that's what you have to be aware of."

Carolina ripped the Redskins in a 44-16 home victory last season. That included the defense forcing five turnovers.

"Hopefully, we don't turn it over five times," Cousins said. "You'd like to think we're a more mature team ... and you protect the ball better."

Cousins said there are lots of similarities with the Panthers defense to what the Redskins had to face a year ago.

"I remember Carolina being one of the better defenses we played all year," Cousins said. "A lot of the same players are back. I do think their defense is still very good and smart players."

With Norman now on the opposing team, the Redskins have been keen on praising the Panthers secondary this week. That includes rookie cornerbacks James Bradberry and Daryl Worley.

"It's hard to come into this league and play right away," Cousins said of Carolina's rookie cornerbacks.

Cousins has been praised for his poise and precision at times as the Redskins have hung tough in the NFC East. The offense has become more difficult to defend.

"No matter who's on the field, we spread it around," Cousins said. "You're building that chemistry on knowing where guys should be."

It's unclear if Cousins will have to contend with Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, who has missed three games because of a concussion. He returned to practice several days before last week's game against San Diego, but ultimately wasn't cleared to play.

The Redskins were glad to have extra time because of the Monday night game. That might give linebackers Su'a Cravens (elbow) and Will Compton (knee sprain) time to recover from ailments, while special teams player Mack Brown entered the concussion protocol based on a hit last week against Philadelphia.

The Panthers (5-8) have to win their final three games and receive quite a bit of help to land in the playoffs. It's a complicated path to the postseason even for a team that has won four of its last seven games.

"There is no room for error and we have to rely on certain other things happening," Rivera said. "At the end of the day, our concern is our next game. We play the Redskins on Monday night and I believe our guys are going to prep and get ready. ... Our intention is to win them all."

Washington holds a 7-5 edge in the all-time series with the Panthers, who've won the past four meetings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Carolina travels to D.C.

MNF Betting Preview
Carolina Panthers vs. Washington Redskins

Odds: Washington (-6.5); Total set at 51

This MNF game has come to be known as the “Josh Norman Return” as he gets to face his old teammates from Carolina for the first time. There is no denying that the Panthers have missed having Norman on their side this year as they will miss the playoffs 12 months after making the Super Bowl, but while many will point to Norman wanting to prove to the Panthers they made a mistake with him, there is no doubt that the current Carolina Panthers have a desire to show up their old friend and prove that the organization did make the right decision in moving on.

Beating Norman and the Redskins on their home field under the bright MNF lights would be a great notch in an otherwise dismal season for the Panthers, especially when that result would significantly hurt Washington's playoff hopes as well.

Carolina is just 1-5 SU (1-4-1 ATS) away from home this season, but that record could be much different had a few bounces gone their way. The Panthers lost by 1 in Denver to open up the NFL season, fell by three in New Orleans in mid-October, and lost by three in Oakland a few weeks back.

The margin of error between a successful, playoff bound season and one that has a team ending their year after 16 games is very slim and the Panthers have definitely been on the wrong side of things in that regard this season. But with little left to play for other than paychecks, this appearance in front of a national audience is like the Panthers “Super Bowl” this year and I expect them to show up. With the added Norman factor in the game, this game has the potential to be one of the better MNF contests of the year.

Washington is back at home after three straight road games that saw them go 1-2 SU and 2-1 ATS. They are still very much in the hunt for a Wild Card spot in the NFC, but this is a game they've got to have. Sadly for Redskins fans, it's been their defense that's been a bit of a dumpster fire for most of the year as eight straight opponents have put up 20+ on Washington and that's not exactly the best formula for success in this league. They were quite lucky to escape Philadelphia with a win last week and understand that despite the Panthers record (and some significant injuries), they are still a very dangerous team.

What makes things worse for the home side here is the fact that Washington is on a 1-5 ATS run under the MNF lights and have a 10-25-2 ATS run going at home against a team with a losing record.

There aren't many NFL fans out there that would deny the idea that Washington has been a team that consistently plays 'up' or 'down' to their level of competition and that does not bode well for them laying almost a touchdown here. Bettors were quick to jump on board with the Redskins when this line opened up at -4.5, but the value on this game has significantly shifted the other way now.

Carolina may not be happy with the way 2016 has gone, but ending the season strong is a good stepping stone entering 2017. This Panthers core knows that they've got the talent to be an elite level team in this league and with their last chance to show it on a grand scale this year here, we could very well see their best performance of the season. Giving Cam Newton and company 6.5 points against a defense that routinely allows 20+ points is far too much to ask of the Redskins offense in a spot like this, when all the pressure is clearly on the Redskins.

Best Bet: Carolina (+6.5)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MNF - Panthers at Redskins
By Kevin Rogers

The Week 15 card wraps up on Monday night from Washington as the Redskins look to stay alive in the NFC playoff race against the Panthers. Last season, Carolina lost its first game in Week 16 following a 14-0 start, but went through the expected letdown this season after a Super Bowl appearance by limping to a 5-8 record. The Panthers can put a dent in Washington’s postseason hopes with a road victory at FedEx Field.

LAST WEEK

Carolina (5-8 SU, 4-8-1 ATS) rebounded from a 40-7 drubbing at Seattle in Week 13 to beat San Diego last Sunday, 28-16 to cash as one-point home favorites. After allowing a total of 75 points in the previous two losses, the Panthers’ defense stepped up by causing five turnovers, including three interceptions of Chargers’ quarterback Philip Rivers. Kicker Graham Gano connected on four field goals for Carolina, while the Panthers overcame just 10 completions from Cam Newton to improve to 4-3 at Bank of America Stadium.

Washington (7-5-1 SU, 9-4 ATS) finished off a string of three consecutive road games by rallying past Philadelphia, 27-22 to cover as two-point favorites. The Redskins lost the previous two weeks at Dallas and Arizona, but pulled off the season sweep of the Eagles thanks to a pair of touchdown passes by Kirk Cousins and the go-ahead touchdown run scored by Chris Thompson after the two-minute warning. DeSean Jackson burned his former team by hauling in three catches for 102 yards and a touchdown, his highest yardage mark in a victory this season.

SERIES HISTORY

The Panthers have won four consecutive matchups with the Redskins since 2009, including three victories at Bank of America Stadium. Last season, Carolina blasted Washington, 44-16 to easily cover as seven-point favorites. The Redskins hung around after one quarter, tying the Panthers at 14-14 with a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. However, Carolina exploded for 17 points in the second quarter and only allowed a fourth quarter safety in the final 45 minutes. Newton diced up the Redskins’ defense for five touchdown passes to five different receivers, as last season’s MVP owns a perfect 3-0 record against Washington in his career.

LINE MOVEMENT

The Las Vegas Westgate Superbook opened the Redskins as four-point favorites with a total of 51, but Washington has jumped to seven-point chalk. The total is still a solid 51 across the board as game-time temperatures are expected to be in the low 30’s.

ROAD WOES

Carolina has slumped to a 1-5 mark on the highway this season following a 7-1 road record last season. The Panthers dropped three of those games by three points or less at Denver, Oakland, and New Orleans, while allowing at least 35 points in four of six road contests, as Carolina is 5-1 to the OVER away from Bank of America Stadium. Carolina is listed as an underdog for the third time this season, going 0-2 SU and 1-1 ATS with the lone cover coming at Oakland as 3 ½-point ‘dogs in a 35-32 setback.

MONDAY NIGHT MISERY

Since 2013, the Redskins have struggled on Monday Night Football by posting a 1-5 SU/ATS record, including an 0-5 SU/ATS mark at FedEx Field. In this season’s opener against Pittsburgh, the Redskins were steamrolled by the Steelers, 38-16 on Monday night as 2 ½-point underdogs. The last time Washington won a Monday night home game came in 2012 against the Giants, as the Redskins own a dreadful 2-15 record on Mondays at FedEx Field since the stadium opened in 1997.

HOME COOKING

The Redskins will look to break their Monday night jinx as home teams on Monday night have fared well over the last two months by going 7-2 SU and 6-2-1 ATS in the last nine weeks. Following a five-week UNDER run, the OVER has hit in four of the past six Monday night games.

PROPS – According to Las Vegas Westgate Superbook

Carolina

C. Newton – Total Completions
19 – OVER (-110)
19 – UNDER (-110)

C. Newton – Total Touchdown Passes + Interceptions
2 – OVER (-110)
2 – UNDER (-110)

J. Stewart – Total Rushing Yards
69 ½ - OVER (-110)
69 ½ - UNDER (-110)

Washington

K. Cousins – Total Gross Passing Yards
283 ½ - OVER (-110)
283 ½ - UNDER (-110)

K. Cousins – Total Touchdown Passes
1 ½ - OVER (-170)
1 ½ - UNDER (+150)

R. Kelly – Total Rushing Yards
66 ½ - OVER (-110)
66 ½ - UNDER (-110)

NEXT WEEK

The Redskins opened as a 3 ½-point road favorite at Chicago in Week 16 at the Westgate Superbook, their fourth away contest in the past five weeks. Carolina is listed as a 2 ½-point home underdog against Atlanta next Sunday according to the Westgate, one year after the Falcons upset the Panthers as a home ‘dog.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday Night Football Predictions: Carolina Panthers at Washington Redskins Odds
by Alan Matthews

Believe it or not, it's already the penultimate Monday night game of the 2016 regular season because the league doesn't want any teams playing on Monday in Week 17 and thus having a short playoff week -- or just having nothing to play for that night and rendering the game unwatchable.

I consider myself excellent at math, but thankfully the NFL has figured out playoff scenarios for me because I assumed the defending NFC champion Carolina Panthers (5-8) were eliminated. To quote Lee Corso: "Not so fast, my friend!" The Panthers could well be officially out by the time they take the field Monday. But here's what must happen for them to return to the playoffs:

*-Panthers win this game, Week 16 vs. Atlanta and Week 17 at Tampa Bay.

*-Falcons lose Sunday vs. San Francisco, Week 16 at Carolina and Week 17 vs. New Orleans.

*-Buccaneers lose Sunday at Dallas, Week 16 at New Orleans and Week 17 vs. Carolina

*-Saints lose Sunday at Arizona and then win both Week 16 vs. Tampa and Week 17 in Atlanta.

That would leave us with a three-way tie for first in the NFC South at 8-8 between the Panthers, Bucs and Falcons, and Carolina would win the tiebreaker. I hope you got all that because I'm dizzy. All that clearly isn't going to happen regardless.

Defending NFC East champion Washington (7-5-1) won't be taking the division title again, nor did I expect it to. I honestly thought the Redskins would finish somewhere around 7-9 this year, but Kirk Cousins has proven his breakout 2015 season was largely no fluke. The Redskins are currently sitting at No. 7 in the NFC, and that tie in London vs. Cincinnati could be costly. Tampa Bay (8-5) holds down the NFC's final wild-card spot, so Washington will be rooting for Dallas on Sunday night. Green Bay and Minnesota (7-6) are right behind the Redskins. But Washington beat both of them. The Skins didn't play the Bucs. Washington finishes at Chicago and then home to the Giants (who may have nothing to play for).

Panthers at Redskins Betting Story Lines

Before I get to what these teams did last week, the top story here revolves around Washington cornerback Josh Norman. He was a Pro Bowler last year for Carolina and certainly a big reason why the Panthers were 15-1 in the regular season and won the NFC title. The Panthers couldn't agree to a long-term deal with him this offseason and slapped the franchise tag on Norman -- only to rescind it later and let Norman walk for nothing. The Redskins were the first team he visited and they wouldn't let him leave without signing a big contract.

Carolina GM Dave Gettleman said he preferred to extend a couple of his defensive linemen instead of giving Norman some massive deal. Except Gettleman hasn't signed anyone, and that defense misses Norman in a huge way. Not letting Norman play one year on the tag is one of the worst decisions in franchise history and tops Houston giving Brock Osweiler $37 million guarantee as the biggest mistake this past offseason by any team. Last year, Carolina was No. 1 against the pass in terms of opposing QB rating, No. 11 in yards allowed and gave up 21 TD throws while picking off 24 passes. This year, the Panthers in those first two categories are No. 20 and No. 30 and have given up 24 TDs with 15 INTs. Obviously that's not all on missing Norman as the Panthers have dealt with some injuries, but a big portion surely is. Norman usually shut down half the field, which allowed defensive coordinator Sean McDermott flexibility to be aggressive up front. Expect Norman to shadow Kelvin Benjamin on Monday. Benjamin has been basically invisible since about mid-October and appeared to be benched at the end of last week's game.

The Panthers ended a two-game losing streak last Sunday with a 28-16 win over San Diego despite Cam Newton completing just 10-for-27 for 160 yards with a TD and pick. The completion percentage was the second-worst of his career. He's been below 50 percent the past four games. Newton did have an MRI on his shoulder this week, but it was clear. I could see him being shut down after this game, however. He has regressed, but his O-Line is terrible.

The Redskins also ended a two-game losing streak last Sunday with a 27-22 comeback win in Philadelphia. Chris Thompson won it on a 25-yard TD run with 1:53 to go. With 21 seconds remaining and the Eagles on the Washington 14, Ryan Kerrigan had a sack that forced quarterback Carson Wentz to fumble to end it. Cousins threw for 234 yards and two scores but had a pick-six. Tight end Jordan Reed was in question with a shoulder injury. He played but wasn't effective with one catch. Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams returned from his four-game suspension and played great.

Panthers at Redskins Betting Odds and Trends

Washington is a 7-point favorite (+120) with a total of 51. On the moneyline, the Redskins are -255 and Panthers +215. On the alternate lines, the Redskins are -6.5 (-102), -6 (-110), -5.5 (-117) and -5 (-122). Carolina is 4-8-1 against the spread (1-4-1 on road) and 7-6 "over/under" (5-1 on road). Washington is 9-4 ATS (4-2 at home) and 11-2 O/U (6-0 at home).

The Panthers are 1-4 ATS in their past five vs. teams with a winning record. They are 1-8-1 ATS in their past 10 on the road. The Redskins are 5-1 ATS in their past six after a win. They are 8-2 ATS in their past 10 vs. teams with a losing record. The over is 8-1 in Carolina's past nine road games vs. teams with a winning home record. The over is 13-3 in Washington's past 16 vs. teams with a losing record. The underdog is 9-2 ATS in the past 11 meetings.

Panthers at Redskins Betting Prediction

These teams met Week 11 last year in Charlotte, and Washington was crushed 44-16. That was easily the Redskins' biggest beating of 2015. Newton threw a career-high five TD passes (all to different receivers), four in the first half. The Redskins coughed it up five times, Cousins was sacked five times (also picked off once and lost two fumbles), and the Redskins rushed for 14 yards on 12 carries.

I like the total here more than the side. If this game were early in the season on a warm night, I'd go over. But it's going to be about 22 in Landover on Monday night. So I'm going under. Take Washington but at -6.5.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL

Week 15

Monday Night

Panthers (5-8) @ Redskins (7-5-1)— Washington enters week half-game behind Bucs in Wild Card race; Redskins won/covered last four home games, scoring 31.5 pts/game- they’re 3-1 as home favorites. Panthers are 1-5 on road, with only win 13-10 at LA; they were favored in four of six road games, are 1-1 as a road underdog. Washington scored 23+ points in its last six games; they’re 6-1 allowing less than 27 points. Carolina held Redskins to nine first downs in 44-16 win LY; Panthers won last four series games after losing seven of previous eight- Carolina lost five of six games here. NFC South non-divisional road underdogs are 9-2 vs spread. NFC East home favorites are 7-3. Last six Redskin games went over total; under is 4-2 in last six Carolina games. Hopefully Cam Newton wore a tie on the team flight.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Monday Night Football'

Redskins enter the contest 7-5-1 (9-4 ATS) overall with a +1.0 winning margin, 4-2 SU/ATS at home with a +2.7 differential. On the other side, Panthers are 5-8 (4-8-1 ATS) on the campaign with a -2.0 losing margin, 1-5 (1-4-1 ATS) on the road losing by an average -8.7 points/game.

Redskins with more at stake looking to keep their slim playoff hopes alive, oddsmakers opened Redskins -4.0 point home favorite. But, betting market has since moved Skins' to -7.0 point faves. Currently in Over/Under markets, the Total is sitting at 51.0

Given what's at stake, Redskins should get the job done in front of the home audience. However, coming through against-the-spread will be a challenger.

The Redskins have a habit of floundering against the betting line in the situation they find themselve here. Redskins are 1-3 ATS as home chalk vs teams with a sub .400% record, they're a money-burning 1-6 ATS as home favorites vs a team off a win its previous effort. Additionally, Redskins have not responded at FedEx Field under Monday night light's posting money-guzzling 1-9 record against the betting line including 0-3 ATS handing points to the visitor.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 12/19 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $40,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

PICK 5: 7/2,6,8/3/6,7,9,10/1,3,4,5,10 = $12

EARLY PICK 4: 6,7,9,10/1,3,5/4,5/4,5,6 = $72

LATE PICK 4: 4,5,6/2,3,7,10/5,8/1,3,7 = $72

MEET STATS: 53 - 207 / $299.60 BEST BETS: 8 - 20 / $25.80

SPOT PLAYS: 5 - 20 / $24.80

Best Bet: UTOPIA (3rd)

Spot Play: J JS DELIVERY (1st)


Race 1

(7) J JS DELIVERY showed some life when dropped into a claiming handicap last time now he tries what should be a much easier spot vs. conditioned claimers; top call. (1) THINK AGAIN raced well in his first start for Moreau - but he still has only won 2 of his last 56 starts. Beware taking too short a win price on this gelding. (5) SIERRA MADRE takes a share every week and he should find this conditioned claimer easier. He's not out of this. (2) WALTZKING HANOVER should be a pace threat here and stick around for a share.

Race 2

(2) ZAGSTER notably moves into Allard's barn here following a very good effort. That stable could be on the verge of heating up; top call. (6) MARQUIS VOLO edged the choice with a determined effort last time. He should be on Pick 5 tickets. (8) MEADOWBRANCH MEMO used a 26 4/5 third 1/4 to get away on his foes last week. He is a threat with that kind of speed. (1) DUH BUBBEES figures to tag along and grab another share.

Race 3

(3) UTOPIA went a big trip to take a new life's mark last week; call to repeat. (5) ITS HUW YOU KNOW set the pace in that mile - showing how good he can be when he behaves - and he will do the same here if he stays flat. (6) CATCH THE DREAM figures for another smaller share here. (2) RAMAS LAST SON should make the ticket leaving from an inner post.

Race 4

(6) DIGGIN IN takes a pretty big class drop here and he should handle these if nothing is amiss. (7) NO BU also drops after setting the pace in a claiming handicap. Coming back quicker here should help. (9) STROKIN is worth a look making his debut for trainer Bourassa and picking up Henry. (10) RAGING FINGERS should show more here dropping to the bottom level, but his post is no bargain.

Race 5

(1) ER ZACH ATTACK showed some late interest in his Woodbine debut and that was after missing a month. He could show sharp improvement here. (3) FRANKIE BOY closes quickly each start. One of these times he will be close enough to pounce. (5) THREE OF CLUBS should be a threat here if he can stay flat this time. (10) AVATARTIST drops and he may get sent hard off the gate which would make him dangerous.

Race 6

(5) IM WANTED makes his second start for the leading trainer after showing sharp improvement last week; top call. (4) PRINCE OF MINTO rallied strongly to win last week and he should be a major threat here right back. (8) GRACE DUHARAS figures to rally belatedly for a share. (10) GUSCREST raced well last week off the shelf but the 10-hole likely dooms him to a smaller share here.

Race 7

(6) YORK SEELSTER debuts for Cullen off the claim here and he is sure to get an aggressive steer. (4) PUSH BACK raced well first time in a claimer last week and although he has seen better days, he appears to fit here currently. (5) LISVINNIE and (1) JIMMY BE GOOD are two more sharp contenders that you need to consider for Pick 4 tickets. This is a very contentious dash that is likely to be decided by trip.

Race 8

(10) ALL B OVER debuts for Moreau after tearing up Rideau Carlton's surface several weeks in a row. These are tougher but he could be up to it. (3) ESCUELA is sharp and will be passing horses late; using. (7) VICS ROYAL LADY made two moves last time but couldn't reach the tripped-out winner late in the mile. She figures to be a threat here. (2) CHARLIE IS A JOKER takes a big class plunge and can obviously win, but he will also likely be overbet in this spot.

Race 9

(8) MIGRATE BLUE CHIP raced well under a lot of pressure throughout last week. A slightly better trip gets him to the winner's circle here. (5) LATE NIGHT was the one that was dueling with the choice last time. He, too, figures to get an easier trip here which makes him a contender. (6) BIG JOHN HOUN closed well into a slowing late pace in the same race. He figures for a share here. (2) KILLER THRILLER brings solid form with him from Ottawa; for a share.

Race 10

(7) I WANNA BE GEARED improved sharply in his debut for Johnson last week. I'll give him the nod here. (1) INTENDED STYLE couldn't get close to a very sharp winner last time, but he does rate highly here. (3) MYSTIC DEUCE rallied for a sharp win in the drop to this class last week; using. (9) JAC SPADE continues to race well, but post likely relegates him to a smaller share here. (4) ROCKIN THE HOUSE raced okay off a long break. He can share here, too.

 

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Spot Plays

For Monday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Mahoning Valley (3rd) Glorious Ride, 3-1
(7th) Stony Hill, 8-1


Parx Racing (2nd) Midnight Princess, 3-1
(8th) Sir Rockport, 4-1


Turf Paradise (5th) Doc West, 3-1
(8th) Right to Glory, 5-1

 

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Monday’s six-pack

Six most popular picks in Week 15 of the Westgate SuperContest:

6) Patriots (430) -3.5- W

5) Lions (433) +4- L

4) Ravens (456) -5.5- L

3) Raiders (501) -3- T

2) Buccaneers (593) +6.5- W

1) Steelers (603) -3- W

 

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#1 Sports

Monday's Free Selection: Wyoning Cowboys - 8