Monday 2/8/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

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Streaks, Tips, Notes

Toronto Raptors at Detroit Pistons February 8, 7:30 EST

The Raptors have certainly been dominant recently winning thirteen of fourteen on the hardwood outscoring opponents by 8.9 points/game with a 9-5 record againt the betting line. Toronto clicking on all cylinders laying just -1.5 points works in their favor. The Raptors have thived in this spot posting a 6-2 ATS record as road chalk of three or less. Raptors 5-1 ATS playing on 'The Palace of Auburn Hills' hardwood, 6-1 ATS playing with three or more days rest are worth a second look.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cardinals (19-4) at Blue Devils (17-6)

Date: February 08, 2016 7:00 PM EDT

Rick Pitino doesn't believe his Louisville players should be punished for the mistakes of others, but he won't mind if they take out their frustrations on opponents.

Coming off an emotional performance after learning their postseason fate, the 19th-ranked Cardinals hope to have leading scorer Damion Lee back Monday night when they try to take over sole possession of the ACC lead with a victory at Duke.

A day after school president James Ramsey announced that the team wouldn't play in the conference or NCAA tournaments, Louisville responded by outscoring Boston College 44-20 in the paint and forcing 18 turnovers in Saturday's 79-47 home rout.

Ramsey said an investigation revealed that violations did occur when the school reviewed allegations by escort Katina Powell that former basketball staffer Andre McGee paid her and other dancers to strip and have sex with recruits and players.

Louisville's streak of nine straight NCAA tournament appearances will end with the ban. Pitino said after Saturday's game that it's wrong to make players pay the price.

"This is wrong," said Pitino, who is set to coach his 1,000th game (741-258). "It's a bad system, but that does not mean we are not wrong in what we've done."

Trey Lewis stepped up with 16 points Saturday, Deng Adel scored 13 and Chinanu Onuaku pulled down 13 rebounds as the Cardinals (19-4, 8-2) shot 50.9 percent. Lee, averaging a team-high 17.0 points, did not play because of a bruised knee.

After last Monday's 71-65 home win over North Carolina, Louisville moved into a first-place tie atop the ACC following the Tar Heels' loss to Notre Dame on Saturday and can now take over sole possession at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

"We just have to make sure we rally around each other and continue to support each other throughout the whole thing," said Lee, whose status remains uncertain. "We have accomplished a mini goal, now we have one day to prepare for Duke."

Louisville leads the ACC in points allowed per game (59.8) and defensive field-goal percentage (37.6) after holding opponents to a 23.7 3-point percentage in its last two. It should be tested against a Duke team averaging a league-high 84.8 points.

The Blue Devils also have hit 25 of 51 from beyond the arc in their past two games, including a season-high 14 in Saturday's 88-80 win over N.C. State in coach Mike Krzyzewski's return following a one-game absence due to illness.

Since dropping four of five to fall out of the Top 25 for the first time since 2007, the Blue Devils (17-6, 6-4) have gotten back on track with back-to-back victories and snapped their first two-game home skid since '07 against the Wolf Pack.

Grayson Allen finished with 28 points and four 3-pointers, while Luke Kennard had 26 and six off the bench. Allen, who ranks second in the ACC with 20.9 points per game, has totaled 56 while making 11 of 17 from beyond the arc in his last two.

Duke now braces for a challenging stretch against Louisville, Virginia and UNC.

"I think we're very prepared," Allen said. "One thing we've been doing very well these past couple of weeks is our preparation for games has been there."

The Blue Devils have lost four of six against the Cardinals but won 63-52 at Louisville last season. They've won seven straight at home versus ranked opponents.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Longhorns (16-7) at Sooners (19-3)

Date: February 08, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

Oklahoma should fall from the top spot of the AP Top 25, but the bigger concern for coach Lon Kruger's squad is regaining its composure in time to rebound from another Big 12 road defeat.

Though the top-ranked Sooners haven't dropped a home game in more than a year, they must be sharp enough to prevent surging Texas from earning a fifth straight victory Monday night and third over a Top 25 opponent on the road.

The country's top 3-point shooting team at 46.2 percent coming into the weekend, Oklahoma (19-3, 7-3) went a season-worst 6-of-24 from beyond the arc in Saturday's 80-69 loss at Kansas State. It was an all-around rough night for the Sooners, who failed to hold an early nine-point lead, allowed the Wildcats to shoot better than any opponent has against them (52.9 percent) this season and reached a boiling point when senior Isaiah Cousins received a late technical for kicking the ball into the crowd.

"If you do not play well and if you get out-fought, you are probably not going to win games in the Big 12," said Kruger, whose team is tied with Kansas and the Longhorns for second in the league behind West Virginia.

"It is a tough lesson for us but we will have to bounce back and play better."

All of Oklahoma's losses have come on the road, with Saturday's the largest margin of defeat.

The Sooners have won 18 straight at home since losing to Kansas State in overtime Jan. 10, 2015. Included in the run was a 71-69 victory over Texas (16-7, 7-3) on Feb. 17 - the Sooners' fourth straight in the series.

Buddy Hield (25.6 points per game) went 4 of 17 for 12 points in that meeting, and averaged 14 while shooting 33.3 percent in the last three with Texas. The nation's second-leading scorer had 23 points Saturday but shot 7 of 16 and didn't attempt his first free throw until the final 10 minutes.

"Everyone is going to make it tough for me," said Hield, who had trouble shaking Kansas State's Wesley Iwundu. "I just have to find a way to score the ball ... I just have to do a better job."

Cousins scored 16 and Ryan Spangler added 14 with 10 rebounds. Second-leading scorer Jordan Woodard (13.7 ppg) went 0 for 6 and failed to score in 29 minutes Saturday. Woodard made up for Hield's offensive struggles at home against Texas last season by scoring a team-high 13.

The Longhorns have dropped three straight at Oklahoma by a combined 20 points, but won 67-59 at No. 15 Baylor on Monday and followed with Saturday's 69-59 home victory over Texas Tech. The Big 12 leader in defensive field-goal percentage (40.2) during conference play, Texas held the Red Raiders to 38.8 percent after Baylor made just 35.2 percent of its attempts.

"We are feeling good," guard Isaiah Taylor said. "We are confident as a team right now, but we are not satisfied and we are not going to ease up. This team is hungry."

Texas, which also won 56-49 at then-No. 6 West Virginia last month, is 4-2 against ranked opponents in 2015-16. First-year Longhorns coach Shaka Smart is eager to see how his team handles this task.

"It's a great opportunity and at the same time, a great challenge," he said. "I would hope our guys are really excited. I'm excited."

Taylor averages a team-leading 15.3 points but 6.5 on 8-of-35 shooting in four games against Oklahoma.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday's Tip Sheet
By David Schwab

Big Monday on ESPN features a pair of interesting matchups in both the ACC and the Big 12.

In the opener, the Louisville Cardinals with go on the road to Durham in the first of two February showdowns against the unranked Duke Blue Devils.

Later Monday night, the Texas Longhorns get a shot at one of the top dogs in the conference when they go on the road to Norman to face Oklahoma.

No. 19 Louisville Cardinals at Duke Blue Devils (ESPN, 7:00 p.m. )

Opening Odds: Duke -3 ½

Betting Matchup

The beleaguered Cardinals responded with a resounding 79-47 pasting of the Boston College Eagles as 20-point home favorites this past Saturday just a day after the team announced its self-imposed one-year postseason ban for some alleged wrongdoings. Louisville is now tied for the lead in the ACC at 8-2 straight-up with a 4-6 record against the spread. The total stayed UNDER the 127 ½-point line against BC and it has stayed UNDER in its last three games.

Along with the Cardinals’ issues off the court, they had to face the Eagles without the services of their top scorer Damion Lee. The senior guard missed that game with a knee injury and he is listed as questionable for Monday night. In 22 previous starts he has averaged 17 points while shooting 47.4 percent from the field. Louisville is averaging 79 points per game and hitting 48.3 percent of its shots.

Duke took a positive step towards moving back into the national rankings with Saturday’s 88-80 victory against NC State, but it failed to cover as an 11 ½-point home favorite. This was just the third SU win in the Blue Devils last seven games and during this slide they are a costly 2-5 ATS. The total went OVER the closing 152 ½-point line in that win after staying UNDER in five of their previous seven outings.

One of the biggest issues that Duke has had over the past few weeks is consistency in its scoring. The Blue Devils are averaging a healthy 84.8 points a game, which is the fifth-highest total in the nation, but this number has dropped to 77.3 points in their last seven games. The 88 points scored against NC State could be a good sign especially with sophomore guard Grayson Allen leading the way with a game-high 28 points. He is the second-highest scorer in the ACC this season with 20.9 PPG.

Betting Trends

-- The Cardinals have failed to cover in their last five road games and they are 2-7 ATS in their last nine games following a SU win. The total has gone OVER in six of their last seven games on the road.

-- The Blue Devils are 1-3-1 ATS in their last five home games and they are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games against a team with a SU winning record. The total has gone OVER in six of their last eight games played at home.

-- Duke has won two of three meetings both SU and ATS since Louisville joined the ACC. The total went OVER in two of those three games.

Texas Longhorns at No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners (ESPN, 9:00 p.m. ET)

Opening Odds: Oklahoma -9

Betting Matchup

Texas continues to stay in the hunt for the Big 12 regular season title at 7-3 SU in conference play and it is riding a four-game winning streak both SU and ATS following Saturday’s 69-59 victory against Texas Tech as a 9 ½-point home favorite. The total stayed UNDER 133 ½ points in that game and it has stayed UNDER in all four games during this current run.

Senior guard Javan Felix led all scorers in Saturday’s win with 20 points, but the main force behind the Longhorns’ success this season has been junior guard Isaiah Taylor. He leads the team in points (15.3) and assists (5.1) and he is shooting a team-best 44.4 percent from the field. Texas is averaging 72.7 PPG and it is shooting just 43.9 percent as a team.

This will probably be the second time this season that Oklahoma gives up the top spot in the AP Top 25 following Saturday’s stunning 80-69 road loss to Kansas State as a five-point favorite. It was the Sooners third conference loss against seven SU wins and they are now 4-6 ATS in those 10 games. The total went OVER 148 in Saturday’s loss and it has gone OVER in four of their last five games.

Buddy Hield is one of the top scorers in the nation with 25.6 PPG and the senior guard came close to matching that average against Kansas State with 23 points. The Sooners have three other players averaging at least 11 points a game as part of an offense that is ranked fourth in the nation in scoring (85.0 PPG). Hield is connecting on 52.4 percent of his shots from the field and he is shooting an effective 51.1 percent from three-point range.

Betting Trends

-- The Longhorns have covered ATS in their last five games against a team with a SU winning record and they are 5-0 ATS in their last five games following a SU win. The total has stayed UNDER in their last four road games.

-- The Sooners are 1-4 ATS in their last five games following a SU loss and they have failed to cover in five of their last seven games at home. The total has gone OVER in eight of their last nine home games.

-- Head-to-head in this Big 12 tilt, the underdog is 6-1 ATS in the last seven meetings and the total has gone OVER in four of the last six games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Notes for Monday's games..........

Georgetown won 93-73 at St John's Jan 13, making 10-24 on arc in tilt that saw both teams take 30+ FTs. Hoyas lost five of last seven games since then- they lost two of last three home games. Johnnies lost last 10 visits here, last five by double digits. St John's lost its last 14 games; its last win was Dec 13 over Syracuse. Red Storm is is 0-5 on Big East road, with three losses by 18+. Big East double digit home favorites are 7-6.

Oklahoma State waxed TCU 69-48 at home Jan 2, in game they led by 2 at half; Cowboys are 6-1 vs TCU in Big X play, but lost 70-55 in LY's visit here, after winning by 17-22 in previous two visits. OSU is 0-5 on Big X road- they did win at Auburn 10 days ago. Big X home underdogs of 4 or less points are 3-7 vs spread. TCU lost nine of last 11 games; its wins were by 12 over Tennessee, by 1 over Texas.

Duke is 1-5 this season if they score less than 80 points, 16-1 if they score 80+- they lost two of last three home games. Louisville has no postseason next month; they'll treat games like this as their Super Bowl. Duke won 63-52 at Louisville LY, in first game as ACC rivals. Cardinals are 3-1 on ACC road, losing at Clemson by 4; they pounded BC in first game since they were banned from postseason. ACC home favorites of less than 5 points are 7-4 vs spread.

Oklahoma won its last four games with Texas, winning last seven here, five by 9+ points. Sooners lost at K-State Saturday; they're 5-0 at home in Big X, with three of last four home wins by 10+ points. Texas is 7-1 in its last eight games, losing by 9 at Kansas; they held last four foes under 60 points. Longhorns are 2-3 on Big X road, also losing by 1 at TCU, 8 at Texas Tech. Big X home favorites of 8+ points are 9-7.

Quick turnaround for Notre Dame after upsetting North Carolina in last game Saturday. Irish re 2-3 on ACC road, losing last two on foreign soil, at Syracuse/Miami. Clemson is 5-0 at home in ACC, all vs top 60 teams; Tigers are 0-3 vs Notre Dame in ACC play, losing by 4-2-14 points- they're 2-3 in last five games overall, with all three losses on road. ACC home teams are 9-7 vs spread in games where spread was 3 or less. .

Samford shot 69% inside arc, was up 49-24 at half in 94-74 home win vs Citadel Jan 5, ending 3-game series skid. Bulldogs are 1-9 since then and lost their last six games- they're 0-6 on SoCon road- this is Samford's 1st road game in 16 days. Citadel is 3-4 in its last seven games, losing its last two games by 40-16 points; they're 2-4 at home in SoCon. SoCon home underdogs of less than 5 points are 2-7 vs spread.

Quinnipiac won its last three games after starting season 5-13; they hit 13-26 on arc in last game, are just 35.3% for season. Bobcats split four games with St Peter's in MAAC play, going 1-1 in each gym- they're 2-3 on MAAC road. Peacocks lost last five games, scoring 55.8 ppg- they're 2-2 at home in MAAC, losing last two home games by 31-8. MAAC home favorites of 6 or less points are 6-7 vs spread.

Wofford won 65-61 at VMI Jan 5; they're 3-0 vs Keydets in conference play, winning 75-70 in LY's game here. Terriers are 4-1 at home in league play, with three wins by 11+ points, losing only to Chattanooga- SoCon double digit home favorites are 6-2 vs spread. VMI lost 10 of its last 11 games, they're 0-6 on SoCon road with five losses by 15+ points- their only SoCon road loss by less than 15 was by 3 at The Citadel.

NC-Greensboro outscored Furman 7-0 over final 3:08 to nudge Paladins 67-66 back on Jan 5, its fourth win in last five series games. UNCG won four of last seven games after starting season 5-12; they're 1-4 on SoCon road, with only win by 7 at The Citadel. Furman won five of its last six games, losing by 8 at Chattanooga Saturday; they won last three games at home by total of seven points. SoCon single digit home favorites are 17-11 against the spread.

Chattanooga raced out to 29-7 lead, beat Mercer 74-62 at home Jan 5th, as home team is now 3-0 in this series since Bears joined SoSon. Mercer won seven of last nine games overall, with both losses in OT; they're 2-3 on SoCon road, with losses by 12-2-6 points. SoCon home underdogs of less than 5 points are 2-7 vs spread. Chattanooga won its last eight and 15 of last 16 games- their only loss was at Furman by 15.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Big-12 Showdown'

Oklahoma Sooners fell to 19-3 (10-10 ATS) on the season with a 80-69 loss as -4.5 point road chalk at Kansas State in their last game. Lead by last year's BIG XII P.O.Y. Buddy Hield (25.6) along three other double digit scorers the Sooners are dropping 85.0 points/game while allowing opponents 72.0 per/contest.

In their last game, Texas Longhorns improved to 16-7 (11-11 ATS) on the campaign with a 69-59 win over Texas Tech covering the -9.5 point spot. Longhorns net 72.7 per/game with Isaiah Taylor leading the troops dropping 15.3 per/contest. Defensively, Longhorns give up 66.5 per/game on 39.6% from the field, 32.8% from long range.

Home court advantage will play a significant role in Oklahoma winning this contest. The Sooners tough to topple on home court have won eight straight in front of its frienzied home crowd including twelve consecutive hosting a Big-12 opponent. However, you bet Oklahoma at some risk. The Sooners carry into the contest a 4-7 record against the betting line in conference play and are a vig-losing 6-6 ATS last twelve hosting a Big-12 visitor. On the other side, Longhorns come in a money-making 6-1 ATS the past seven on the hardwood, 6-3 ATS last nine trips into Norman.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Streaks, Tips, Notes

Oklahoma St. Cowboys at Texas Christian Horned Frogs February 8, 7:00 EST

The Horned Frogs average a modest 68.7 points per game and limit the opposition to 69.5 points per contest. Whether it’s lock-down defense or a lack of offensive scoring ability the Horned Frogs are playing 'Under' the total consistently (5-12 O/U). Horned Frogs get a chance to keep 'Under' gamblers happy when they host Oklahoma State Cowboys as the series is 5-2 'Under' and Pokes are 8-2 'Under' when netting 70 or less points/game.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Northfield Park

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


Race 6 - Post: 7:40 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 83 - Purse:$7000 - CLAIMING $8000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 MANIPULATOR 7/1


# 2 MIDNIGHT GAMBOL 9/2


# 9 ABS RAYNO HALL 7/2


The choice this time is MANIPULATOR and the potential win price justifies the long odds. Has a sharp shot in this contest, if he can repeat his back racing class. The consortium always likes a proven performer. This horse's high winning clip is confirmation of that. The 5 position sports an above average win pct at Northfield Park. MIDNIGHT GAMBOL - Not many knocks against this nice horse, let's give him a shot. ABS RAYNO HALL - Feel the need for speed, this horse has been turning in some stellar TrackMaster SRs averaging around 85. The panel of smart guys gives this harness racer a great chance to win this one, class ratings are tops in the field of starters.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 7 - Post: 9:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$15000 - NON-WINNERS OF 4 P-M RACES OR $40,000 LIFETIME. 3,4& 5 YEAR OLD FILLIES & MARES


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 GOLD STAR DYNASTY 3/1


# 3 SILOUETTE 3/1


# 4 GALLEY WENCH 7/1


GOLD STAR DYNASTY looks great to best this grouping. Many top players will recognize the stellar speed fig in the last gathering. Stacks up against any horse in this group. SILOUETTE - This standardbred has been making trips to the winner's circle on a routine basis, look for her to make another appearance soon. Great in the money percentage for Dube and this entrant. A great likelihood to get the victory. GALLEY WENCH - Can't miss based on TrackMaster SRs which have been fantastic (76 avg) within the recent past. It's chancy to consider on class alone, but this mare has among the most solid class markings of the grouping.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Hialeah

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 110y on the Dirt. Purse: $9500 Class Rating: 73

QUARTER HORSE 110Y, FOR ACCREDITED FLORIDA BREDS) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 HOT TANG 9/2


# 2 SCANDALIA 3/1


# 7 PM LOUISIANA OAK 4/1


I think HOT TANG is a respectable choice. Trainer has strong win rate (19 percent) at this distance and surface. The speed rating of 67 from his most recent race looks competitive in here. Has a strong shot for this event if you like back class. SCANDALIA - Has respectable Speed Figures and has to be considered for a wager for this event. Ran a sharp last race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel

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


Race 4 - Claiming - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $30000 Class Rating: 96

FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF TWO RACES AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE DECEMBER 8 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE THEN ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000, FOR EACH $2,500 TO $20,000 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 SIR SIDNEY 4/1


# 4 PONZI SCHEME 3/1


# 3 WORTHY LION 9/2


SIR SIDNEY is the best wager in this race. This gelding looks like a longshot with a chance. Is a strong contender based on figs posted recently under today's conditions. I like the jockey on this gelding - quite good chance to win the outing. PONZI SCHEME - Has run admirably when racing a dirt route race. Ran a solid last race. WORTHY LION - Will almost certainly come out strong - I have liked the way this horse has moved quickly to the front end recently. With a quite good 92 speed rating last time out, will unquestionably be a factor in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Sam Houston - Race #10 - Post: 5:08pm - Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $5,500 Class Rating: 86

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 CONDOBOUND (ML=8/1)
#12 OVERSPENT (ML=10/1)


CONDOBOUND - Last time around the track was at Retama Park in a race with an Equibase class figure of 93. Dropping a significant amount in Equibase class figure this time out puts him in a solid position right here in this race. While the finish was disappointing, this magnificent animal made a good stretch move last out at Retama Park. Should do better in this event. OVERSPENT - This gelding might as well call Sam Houston home. Don't overlook how he races well over this track. The morning line odds on this gelding are higher than those of the other entrant from the shedrow of trainer Griggs. Often the longer-priced part of a 'split' entry wins. You have to like that latest race speed rating, 82, which is the top most recent race speed rating of this field.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 PAGETS (ML=7/2), #6 DELWOOD (ML=5/1), #5 BUCKWILD (ML=8/1),

PAGETS - This less than sharp equine hasn't been coming close at the finish line lately. DELWOOD - Not normally the kind of horse one plays off of any type of extended vacation. Disappointing speed fig last time out at Fair Meadows Tulsa at 1 mile. Don't believe this racer will improve too much in today's race. BUCKWILD - This animal just hasn't looked fit of late.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #7 CONDOBOUND to win if you can get odds of 5/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [7,12]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turf Paradise - Race #6 - Post: 3:09pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,000 Class Rating: 79

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 CONGREGATIONALIST (ML=6/1)
#8 DA BOSS (ML=5/1)
#2 KERSHNER (ML=7/2)


CONGREGATIONALIST - I like to see fast drills. This gelding's last one was very good. Second fastest of the day. Last ran at Turf Paradise and finished fifth. Reviewing his PP lines, I see he was close at the wire, within five of the winner. Dropping in class rating points from his December 21st race at Turf Paradise. Based on that info, I will give this one the advantage. DA BOSS - All systems look good for this gelding. Last morning work, 2nd fastest of the day, shows he's fit and ready. Don't often see a profitable return on investment like +60. This jock/conditioner twosome has done well together over the last twelve months. The race may set up nicely for this gelding's powerful charge. KERSHNER - Ramgeet brings him right back. I advise you stay with this live gelding. I think that a sprinter coming off a layoff will usually run his best in the 3rd or 4th start back. 68-72-77 are last 3 speed ratings. Improving each time out is something he should do again in this race.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 MOBIUS (ML=3/1), #9 OUR MINESWEEPER (ML=6/1), #5 JILAS MIRACLE (ML=8/1),

MOBIUS - This chalk horse ran on Jan 16th and hasn't had a work since then. OUR MINESWEEPER - When checking today's class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed fig than in the last race to compete in this dirt sprint. JILAS MIRACLE - This entrant didn't go to the front end and didn't make up any ground in the lane last time he ran.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - DA BOSS - Although he ran fourth on Jan 27th, the try wasn't half bad. Expect a good effort this time.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 CONGREGATIONALIST is going to be the play if we are getting 3/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,2,8] with [1,2,8] with [1,2,6,7,8] with [1,2,6,7,8] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Monday 2/8 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 1,2,6/6/1,3,7,8/5,6/3,5,6 = $14.40

EARLY PICK 4: 5,6/3,5,6/1,3,9/2,4,7 = $54

LATE PICK 4: 2,4,7/2/3,6,7/2,4,8 = $27

MEET STATS: 228 - 717 / $1223.40 BEST BETS: 38 - 66 / $136.80

SPOT PLAYS: 17 - 66 / $191.30

Best Bet: MUSICAL RHYTHM (8th)

Spot Play: SIR MACHALOT (5th)


Race 1

(6) VELOCITY HEADLIGHT drops back to the lowest class where he has dominated recently and will take some beating here. (1) JUST HENRY gamely held on last week when claimed and he should get a good trip here. (2) BROADIES SONG fits this class like a glove and should be right there again.

Race 2

(6) HILLSONATOR has been a different horse this year and likely dominates here as a very short-priced favorite. (7) GRAND PREMIERE looked good when winning off a break last time and looks like the only real threat to the choice - if there is one. (2) BETTER TO BE LUCKY ships in and races out of trotting specialist Bax's barn. Keep an eye on him as the series progresses. He might be worth a shot at a price in the final.

Race 3

(1) MIAMI MAGIC closed a big gap late last time when she motored home. She can beat these if asked for more speed early. (3) TRUMPETS finished quickly racing in the snow and looks faster than she was at two. She can contend right away vs. these. (8) CROWN CLASSIC just missed last time, extending her futility record to 25 races. She's not impossible here considering her recent improving form.

Race 4

(5) TRISUN raced well last time and finished quickly. Jamieson quite often moves horses up the second time he drives as is the case with this gelding. (6) MACH POWER has won his first two starts easily at London for his Hall of Fame trainer and can be expected to drop several seconds here. (3) WINDSONG LEOPOLD closed mildly here Thursday night and the move to an inside post should help him get out a bit closer to the leaders here.

Race 5

(5) SIR MACHALOT beat a better field than this one here on December 19 and has some darkened form since. I would expect Macarthur to send him at the outset for good position here. (3) SUNNY BEACH DAY typically races well at this bottom level and tonight should be no different. (6) PRINCE SHARKA has shown high speed racing in the Maritimes and can't be dismissed here making his Woodbine debut.

Race 6

(1) JUSTICE JET drops and should get lots of early action to set up his late charge; top call. (9) DOMEDOMEDOME will likely take a closing approach here and the pace scenario could also work to her advantage. (3) MUSCLE MATTERS raced decently a class higher and could trip out near the lead here.

Race 7

(4) CHICAGO HANOVER was flying late last week and has been solid in this class for several weeks. He should be dangerous from close range. (7) UFDRAGONS ROCKET drops back to a class he fits much better and is sure to be heard from. (2) WOGGY ROCKS debuts for Montini and is also in great form. He's not out of this.

Race 8

(2) MUSICAL RHYTHM lays over this group and need only stay trotting to get the job done. (8) LOVE HUNTER has raced solidly for several weeks and the rival that beat him his past two starts does nothing but win races. He looks next best. (6) FLEET BUMBLEBEE has good closing power and can tale air. He's a good one for the bottom of Tris and Supers.

Race 9

(7) FEARLESS MAN was dead game last week when edged by a streaking rival. He will be tough on the front end here. (3) CASH FOR GOLD won with no urging whatsoever last week and can contend here at a price. (6) ZEUS LIGHTNING continues to race well but is a bit win-shy.

Race 10

(4) HE IS RISEN got hung the mile last time and raced evenly. He can be expected to go forward in his second start in the new barn. (2) KABLOOIE debuts for Menary and should be a top contender. (8) CROWN ISLE has raced well on this circuit previously and is worth including at a price. (7) PRINCE ADAM has raced okay since shipping west and might be able to get on the High-5 ticket here. (9) LOST IN PANSLATION closed for a slice last time and could do the same here in a generally weak field.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 2/8 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

MEET STATS: 29 - 93 / $191.70

BEST BETS: 4 - 8 / $14.60

Best Bet: DOUBLE YOUR BET (5th)

Spot Play: FLOAT ON BY (9th)


Race 1

(5) BEAS IDEAL is a perfect three-for-three to begin her career and the mare can control these again. (1) AMAZON IDEAL was second best in her last two, including finishing well versus the top choice last week. (2) A LITTLE ROLL qualified willingly at The Meadowlands in preparation for her career debut. A 5/1/2 triple here may pay under 10 dollars.

Race 2

(3) LUKAS HALL has done nothing in recent memory but the Mark Ford trainee is better than that; it wouldn't shock me if he turned things around. (1) TRADING PLACES closed well last week at a big price; contender from the rail. (6) FOLLOW MY DREAMS picked up Stratton last out and immediately awakened; he catch drives again.

Race 3

(3) AUTOMATIC SLIMS double jumped in class off the claim and failed miserably; he's back at the proper level tonight. (4) WAYNE THE LEFTY is an automatic contender here. (6) TOUCH THE ROCK will be forwardly placed with Brennan. (8) DALLENBACH HANOVER will likely tour the track from this spot, but note he's back in the Cad Gregory barn and keep him in mind for future efforts.

Race 4

(5) DOMINUS HANOVER has come up second best in his two local starts, both good efforts. He's ready to jog. (2) CAVIAR COURT finally gets a good post and can show more. (3) GLOBAL REVOLUTION hit the board in his last two and should land another share.

Race 5

(1) DOUBLE YOUR BET plunges in class and should control the action from this spot; I expect a big night from Banca considering his string of lucky inside post position draws. (4) JUST BETTOR keeps Brennan and can show more. (5) JC KINGDOM moves in a couple of slots and we've seen good early speed from him in the past.

Race 6

(2) CREDIT CREATION ships from The Meadowlands and recently added hobbles; note he did have an easy win here last summer. (4) STAYIN STRONG was a winner in his debut for Abbatiello, who is off to a solid start this year. (3) ARRAKIS has decent speed and seems well mannered.

Race 7

(3) SILOUETTE is much improved since Dube got in the bike and she can take her second straight. (1) BROWN BRINNY gapped last out, missed some time but she now debuts for Banca and has the rail. (4) GALLEY WENCH never wins but can usually be counted on for a share.

Race 8

(3) MAYFLOWERMOONSHINE went backwards last week in a needed start; he draws a bit better and we all know the veteran is capable with these. (1) MYBROTHERGEORGE gapped and never threatened last out for Banca but he has the rail now so I'm sure he'll be ready to roll. (6) MISTER ACCUMULATOR had a decent 2015 season and he should fit with these basement claiming types.

Race 9

(1) FLOAT ON BY hasn't been that bad in recent efforts from impossible spots and she makes all the sense in the world from this inside spot. (2) OK HEARTBEAT is another that debuts for Banca and she did beat lesser last out. (5) SHE'S HEAVENLY sat buried and finished with pace last week versus better; chance with these.

Race 10

(2) K SLATER tried to leave from the outside but was going nowhere in last; he's always better with an inside post and he's capable of tripping out from this spot. (1) BIG JER is second start at this reduced level and looms the one to beat. (4) HYPNOTIST should save ground and try to shake free late.

Race 11

(1) SKY HANOVER had a decent three-year-old campaign and needed last week's tightener; she's handled by the unproven Lucas Wallin but still deserves a long look. (5) DOUBLEDAY could try to be forwardly placed from this spot. (2) STORMONT PARK got bumpy leaving last out and broke; prior start was good.

Race 12

(1) A PLUS HANOVER kicked home very nicely last week and will now look to trip out from the rail. (3) I AM THE COWBOY was a well rated winner last out and the Allard trainee can certainly repeat. (5) DELLA CRUISE gets some serious class relief and promises to be more involved.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Fair Grounds (5th) Dynamo Ridge, 6-1
(6th) Sapphire Seas, 3-1


Laurel Park (1st) Mane Monsteur, 6-1
(5th) Tricky Lion, 3-1


Mahoning Valley (5th) Real Luck, 3-1
(6th) Sir Bluegrass, 4-1


Sam Houston (7th) My Sharp Misty, 8-1
(8th) Jorani, 9-2


Turf Paradise (4th) Powerofemotion, 3-1
(5th) Lion's Prey, 5-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday's six-pack

My six favorite Super Bowls

6) Steelers 31, Rams 19-- First time your team gets there, it is cool no matter what.

5) Chiefs 23, Vikings 7-- Just for NFL Films highlights, with Hank Stram miked.

4) Saints 31, Colts 17-- Saints were bad for long time; their fans deserved this game.

3) Raiders 32, Vikings 14-- Was good to see John Madden win a championship.

2) Steelers 27, Cardinals 23-- Good ballgame, dramatic ending.

1) Rams 23, Titans 16-- In my world, the greatest sporting event ever played.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Monday

505 CLIPPERS @ 506 76ERS 7:05 PM

Take: 505 CLIPPERS -9

It’s the second off back to back road games for the Clippers, following their Sunday win at Miami. Normally, that would not make laying a bunch of points the next night against a bad team the most desirable situation. But the fact this game is against the woeful 76ers creates an entirely different dynamic.

I’m not going to pretend this is a game the Clippers are going be fired up for. But unlike some past editions of the Clippers, this team has been doing a better job of maintaining the necessary focus. That’s really all it should take to dust off the pathetic 76ers.

Philly comes into this one off a rare victory. But that’s probably not the best news for the Sixers, as they are 0-7 off a win this season, and they have zero wins against winning opponents. It’s not exactly a substantial sample, but on the two occasions this season where the 76ers were at home off a win, they got absolutely mauled each time.

This is the second meeting between these teams this year, with the Clippers annihilating Philly by 31 at Staples in early January. I’ll assume the margin will be somewhat less here, but perhaps not all that much.

Philadelphia has just one shot to compete here and that’s if the Clippers dimply dismiss them and get very lazy. That can obviously happen. Just look back at the recent visit to this building by the Warriors. The champs got up by a whole bunch, went to sleep mentally and nearly ended up getting stunned in what would have been the season’s biggest upset.

But while I certainly can grasp the concept of how the Clippers can screw this up, I just don’t envision it happening. Even if it’s not the sharpest LA team we see tonight, I’ll take my chances they can win by doubles, and if they do that, it’ll be enough. I’ll side with the Clippers minus the points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp NBA Pick, Monday, Feb 8, 2016 7:05 PM ET

(501) CHICAGO BULLS VS (502) CHARLOTTE HORNETS

Take: UNDER

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Monday, February 8, 2016 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the Chicago Bulls and the Charlotte Hornets. A pair of strong defensive teams square off with a high total. Chicago is No. 1 in the NBA in field goal shooting defense. The Under is 8-3-1 in the Bulls last 12 vs. a team with a losing straight up record. Charlotte is 34-16-1 under the total when their opponent allows 100 points or more in their previous game. Play Chicago/Charlotte under the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Arthur Ralph Sports

Bonus Play: MON Clemson-1