Hurricanes expecting to start Khudobin Saturday
Justin Hartling
The Carolina Hurricanes have been far from spectacular this year and with a 6-12-1-2, it seems that there will be a goalie platoon. Coach Peters said that Cam Ward and Anton Khudobin will split duties this weekend.
Khudobin, who is expected to start Saturday, is 0-4-2 this season with a 2.96 GAA and .898 save percentage.
Justin Hartling
The Carolina Hurricanes have been far from spectacular this year and with a 6-12-1-2, it seems that there will be a goalie platoon. Coach Peters said that Cam Ward and Anton Khudobin will split duties this weekend.
Khudobin, who is expected to start Saturday, is 0-4-2 this season with a 2.96 GAA and .898 save percentage.
Blue Jackets weak in back end of consectuive games
Justin Hartling
Nobody every said it was easy to play games on consecutive nights, but the Columbus Blue Jackets have been extra bad this season in that situation. The Jackets are 1-4 in the back end of consecutive games this season.
Columbus has also been outscored 18-12 in those games this season.
Justin Hartling
Nobody every said it was easy to play games on consecutive nights, but the Columbus Blue Jackets have been extra bad this season in that situation. The Jackets are 1-4 in the back end of consecutive games this season.
Columbus has also been outscored 18-12 in those games this season.
Six fresh teams to play weary opponents
Justin Hartling
After a full slate of NHL action Friday there will be worn out teams, but there are six teams set to take the ice Saturday rested.
The Toronto Maple Leafs, Tampa Bay Lightning, Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks will all be playing teams on the back end of consecutive games Saturday.
Justin Hartling
After a full slate of NHL action Friday there will be worn out teams, but there are six teams set to take the ice Saturday rested.
The Toronto Maple Leafs, Tampa Bay Lightning, Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks will all be playing teams on the back end of consecutive games Saturday.
NBA Preview: Clippers (10-5) at Jazz (5-11)
Date: November 29, 2014 9:00 PM EDT
Fatigue has proven to be no enemy to the Los Angeles Clippers, and the same can be said of the Utah Jazz in recent seasons.
The Clippers can cap a seven-game trip with an 11th straight victory over the Jazz, who have dropped a season-high four straight heading into this Saturday night matchup.
Los Angeles (10-5) seeks a 6-1 record on this trip after coasting past Houston 102-85 on Friday. Now the Clippers get a chance to improve upon their NBA-best 4-0 record in the second half of back-to-back games.
When the Clippers get back home, they will have traveled 7,231 miles during this trip. It is the second-longest trip by distance that any team in the NBA will travel in a seven-game stretch this season.
'The road is hard,' coach Doc Rivers said. 'Winning is hard. The fact that we're doing it on the road is great.'
Blake Griffin is third in the NBA with 29.5 points per game in the second half of back-to-backs. Frontcourt mate DeAndre Jordan has made 19 of 21 shots in those games for a league-best 90.5 field-goal percentage.
Those big men combined for 23 rebounds Friday as they took advantage of a Rockets club missing Dwight Howard. Griffin posted his fourth double-double with 30 points.
'It tells you that their confidence is starting to grow,' Rivers said. 'I've always thought that when your team has confidence they have energy. They don't get tired. I thought that's what that was.'
Griffin and Jordan have been in the lineup for every game of this run over Utah (5-11), which hasn't defeated Los Angeles since a 108-79 rout Jan. 17, 2012.
Griffin is averaging 24.8 points during this win streak over the Jazz in which Jordan is averaging 9.6 rebounds.
The Jazz are searching for answers after losing 97-82 at Oklahoma City on Wednesday. They matched their lowest point total of the season and were outscored in every quarter.
"I thought we were really ready to play, and we played very, very well on both ends of the court," coach Quin Snyder said. "Then the game got more physical and it knocked us back."
Gordon Hayward scored a team-high 24 points for Utah, which also finished with a season-low three points from its bench.
The Jazz could have a tough time containing Griffin, whose third effort in which he had at least 30 points required him to log just over only 30 minutes Friday. He scored 12 points in the first quarter and sat out nearly the entire fourth.
'I tried to be more aggressive early - getting to the lane,' Griffin said. 'We just did a good job of moving the ball early. Even though they were banged up, I thought it was a good test for us.'
He starred in the first matchup against Utah this season with 31 points on 14-of-21 shooting and nine rebounds in a 107-101 home win Nov. 3. Hayward led the Jazz with 27 points.
Date: November 29, 2014 9:00 PM EDT
Fatigue has proven to be no enemy to the Los Angeles Clippers, and the same can be said of the Utah Jazz in recent seasons.
The Clippers can cap a seven-game trip with an 11th straight victory over the Jazz, who have dropped a season-high four straight heading into this Saturday night matchup.
Los Angeles (10-5) seeks a 6-1 record on this trip after coasting past Houston 102-85 on Friday. Now the Clippers get a chance to improve upon their NBA-best 4-0 record in the second half of back-to-back games.
When the Clippers get back home, they will have traveled 7,231 miles during this trip. It is the second-longest trip by distance that any team in the NBA will travel in a seven-game stretch this season.
'The road is hard,' coach Doc Rivers said. 'Winning is hard. The fact that we're doing it on the road is great.'
Blake Griffin is third in the NBA with 29.5 points per game in the second half of back-to-backs. Frontcourt mate DeAndre Jordan has made 19 of 21 shots in those games for a league-best 90.5 field-goal percentage.
Those big men combined for 23 rebounds Friday as they took advantage of a Rockets club missing Dwight Howard. Griffin posted his fourth double-double with 30 points.
'It tells you that their confidence is starting to grow,' Rivers said. 'I've always thought that when your team has confidence they have energy. They don't get tired. I thought that's what that was.'
Griffin and Jordan have been in the lineup for every game of this run over Utah (5-11), which hasn't defeated Los Angeles since a 108-79 rout Jan. 17, 2012.
Griffin is averaging 24.8 points during this win streak over the Jazz in which Jordan is averaging 9.6 rebounds.
The Jazz are searching for answers after losing 97-82 at Oklahoma City on Wednesday. They matched their lowest point total of the season and were outscored in every quarter.
"I thought we were really ready to play, and we played very, very well on both ends of the court," coach Quin Snyder said. "Then the game got more physical and it knocked us back."
Gordon Hayward scored a team-high 24 points for Utah, which also finished with a season-low three points from its bench.
The Jazz could have a tough time containing Griffin, whose third effort in which he had at least 30 points required him to log just over only 30 minutes Friday. He scored 12 points in the first quarter and sat out nearly the entire fourth.
'I tried to be more aggressive early - getting to the lane,' Griffin said. 'We just did a good job of moving the ball early. Even though they were banged up, I thought it was a good test for us.'
He starred in the first matchup against Utah this season with 31 points on 14-of-21 shooting and nine rebounds in a 107-101 home win Nov. 3. Hayward led the Jazz with 27 points.
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Woodbine
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 6 - Post: 9:05 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 84 - Purse:$22000 - FILLIES & MARES, NW $14,000 LAST 5 STARTS OR NW $28,000 LAST 10 STARTS. AE: NW $130,000 LIFETIME. AE: OPT. CLM. $35,000.
CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium
# 5 RADAR CONTACT 7/1
# 7 METRO SHOPPING 10/1
# 6 WILDCAT BEAUTY 9/1
RADAR CONTACT has a respectable shot to take this race especially at such a decent 7/1. This entrant has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 85 average class number. Should play well for this one. Considered a solid wager based solely on her high top prize percentage. METRO SHOPPING - This contender may have some hidden form, a score would be a pleasant surprise. WILDCAT BEAUTY - Look for Heard and this fine animal to take the whole enchilada in this contest. Exemplary in the money percentage for the trainer/horse partnership. When the trainer Heard puts Henry up for the drive very good things happen. Just check out the 20 win percent.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 6 - Post: 9:05 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 84 - Purse:$22000 - FILLIES & MARES, NW $14,000 LAST 5 STARTS OR NW $28,000 LAST 10 STARTS. AE: NW $130,000 LIFETIME. AE: OPT. CLM. $35,000.
CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium
# 5 RADAR CONTACT 7/1
# 7 METRO SHOPPING 10/1
# 6 WILDCAT BEAUTY 9/1
RADAR CONTACT has a respectable shot to take this race especially at such a decent 7/1. This entrant has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 85 average class number. Should play well for this one. Considered a solid wager based solely on her high top prize percentage. METRO SHOPPING - This contender may have some hidden form, a score would be a pleasant surprise. WILDCAT BEAUTY - Look for Heard and this fine animal to take the whole enchilada in this contest. Exemplary in the money percentage for the trainer/horse partnership. When the trainer Heard puts Henry up for the drive very good things happen. Just check out the 20 win percent.
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 10:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 95 - Purse:$21000 - NON-WINNERS OF $25,000 IN LAST 6 STARTS
CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium
# 5 FOOL ME ONCE 5/2
# 1 VALIDUS DEO 9/5
# 2 THE LADIES MAN 6/1
FOOL ME ONCE is the most favorable wager in this race. It's a bit chancy to consider on class alone, but this horse has among the most competitive class ratings of the field. Take a good long look at making this horse your win play based on very high win stat alone. Some trainers just fit better with certain solid standardbreds. That seems to be the case in this race with Alagna. A very nice wager. VALIDUS DEO - Should be considered in this contest if only for the great speed fig achieved in the last competition. Driver-handler are no strangers to the winners circle and should have this gelding breaking away from the pack. THE LADIES MAN - This harness racer looks dangerous. Look at the 95 average speed rating. The knowledge group noted a clear-cut performance out of this entrant last time. Hoping for a repeat of that to score.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 10:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 95 - Purse:$21000 - NON-WINNERS OF $25,000 IN LAST 6 STARTS
CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium
# 5 FOOL ME ONCE 5/2
# 1 VALIDUS DEO 9/5
# 2 THE LADIES MAN 6/1
FOOL ME ONCE is the most favorable wager in this race. It's a bit chancy to consider on class alone, but this horse has among the most competitive class ratings of the field. Take a good long look at making this horse your win play based on very high win stat alone. Some trainers just fit better with certain solid standardbreds. That seems to be the case in this race with Alagna. A very nice wager. VALIDUS DEO - Should be considered in this contest if only for the great speed fig achieved in the last competition. Driver-handler are no strangers to the winners circle and should have this gelding breaking away from the pack. THE LADIES MAN - This harness racer looks dangerous. Look at the 95 average speed rating. The knowledge group noted a clear-cut performance out of this entrant last time. Hoping for a repeat of that to score.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Churchill Downs
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 9 - Stakes - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $200000 Class Rating: 89
GOLDEN ROD S. - GRADE 2 FOR FILLIES, TWO YEARS OLD.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 8 WEST COAST BELLE 4/1
# 10 KATHBALLU 8/1
# 3 I'M A CHATTERBOX 20/1
I think about WEST COAST BELLE here. Has quite good Equibase Speed Figures and has to be considered for a wager in this contest. This equine has a very good win percent in dirt routes. Ought to be given a shot based on the strong Equibase Speed Fig earned in the last contest. KATHBALLU - This racer enters today's race with second time Lasix. Has to be considered against this field displaying very good figs recently and an average speed figure of 84 under similar conditions. I'M A CHATTERBOX - Ought to come out strong - I have liked the way this filly has moved swiftly to the lead recently. I would give the nod to this filly on the rider and conditioner numbers alone.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 9 - Stakes - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $200000 Class Rating: 89
GOLDEN ROD S. - GRADE 2 FOR FILLIES, TWO YEARS OLD.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 8 WEST COAST BELLE 4/1
# 10 KATHBALLU 8/1
# 3 I'M A CHATTERBOX 20/1
I think about WEST COAST BELLE here. Has quite good Equibase Speed Figures and has to be considered for a wager in this contest. This equine has a very good win percent in dirt routes. Ought to be given a shot based on the strong Equibase Speed Fig earned in the last contest. KATHBALLU - This racer enters today's race with second time Lasix. Has to be considered against this field displaying very good figs recently and an average speed figure of 84 under similar conditions. I'M A CHATTERBOX - Ought to come out strong - I have liked the way this filly has moved swiftly to the lead recently. I would give the nod to this filly on the rider and conditioner numbers alone.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Penn National
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 6 - Claiming - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $16200 Class Rating: 84
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE OCTOBER 26 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 26 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $6,250, IF FOR $6,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 6 QUIZZER 8/1
# 2 SCARLET'S NUMBER 3/1
# 1 A LADY CALLED MAX 15/1
My selection in this competition is QUIZZER especially at such a decent 8/1. Always good to invest in a handler with this kind of very strong win percentage - 18 percent - at this distance & surface. Ferreira has her trained quite well to break sharply out of the gate. Overall, this trainer has been profitable at this distance/surface. SCARLET'S NUMBER - May best this group of horses in this race here, showing strong figs of late. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Kulp running at this distance are the most favorable in this group. A LADY CALLED MAX - Her earnings per start in dirt route events alone makes you take a look at her.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 6 - Claiming - 8.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $16200 Class Rating: 84
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE OCTOBER 26 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 26 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $6,250, IF FOR $6,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 6 QUIZZER 8/1
# 2 SCARLET'S NUMBER 3/1
# 1 A LADY CALLED MAX 15/1
My selection in this competition is QUIZZER especially at such a decent 8/1. Always good to invest in a handler with this kind of very strong win percentage - 18 percent - at this distance & surface. Ferreira has her trained quite well to break sharply out of the gate. Overall, this trainer has been profitable at this distance/surface. SCARLET'S NUMBER - May best this group of horses in this race here, showing strong figs of late. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Kulp running at this distance are the most favorable in this group. A LADY CALLED MAX - Her earnings per start in dirt route events alone makes you take a look at her.
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Bar
Del Mar - Race #8 - Post: 4:02pm - Stakes - 9.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $300,000 Class Rating: 113 Hollywood Derby (Grade 1)
Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar
#4 SAWYER'S HILL (ML=5/1)
#5 CALIFORNIA CHROME (ML=4/5)
#1 TALCO (FR) (ML=10/1)
SAWYER'S HILL - Colt looks like the lone speed here. He may turn the race into a procession. Bejarano's agent must like anytime Mulhall gives them a mount; win percent together is tremendous. CALIFORNIA CHROME - A definite class advantage goes to this horse. A good sign he will be very competitive in this grass race. A little change in scenery has got to do this thoroughbred well. Reading the PPs, it seems like he likes to visit the winner's circle at multiple tracks. Horse has improved at least 2 speed figure points in last two races. I look for that to continue its positive trend in this field. TALCO (FR) - Last ran at Santa Anita and finished fifth. Reviewing his handicapping information, I see he was close at the wire, within 5 of the winner. Sadler brings him back again. I suggest you stick with this hot colt. This horse gets shipped over here after showing signs of class at a major foreign racing venue. A good sign in my opinion. This colt is certainly on the improve with speed figs of 92, 100, 107 last three out.
Vulnerable Contenders: #2 LEXIE LOU (ML=3/1), #3 FLAMBOYANT (FR) (ML=6/1),
LEXIE LOU - This filly registered a fig in her last event which likely isn't good enough in today's race. FLAMBOYANT (FR) - This colt finished off the board on August 31st and wasn't near the winner in the last race either.
Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - CALIFORNIA CHROME - With the highest last speed rating of 119, this colt looks exceptional against these thoroughbreds.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #4 SAWYER'S HILL to win if you can get at least 9/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,4]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,4,5] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
Bar
Del Mar - Race #8 - Post: 4:02pm - Stakes - 9.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $300,000 Class Rating: 113 Hollywood Derby (Grade 1)
Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar
#4 SAWYER'S HILL (ML=5/1)
#5 CALIFORNIA CHROME (ML=4/5)
#1 TALCO (FR) (ML=10/1)
SAWYER'S HILL - Colt looks like the lone speed here. He may turn the race into a procession. Bejarano's agent must like anytime Mulhall gives them a mount; win percent together is tremendous. CALIFORNIA CHROME - A definite class advantage goes to this horse. A good sign he will be very competitive in this grass race. A little change in scenery has got to do this thoroughbred well. Reading the PPs, it seems like he likes to visit the winner's circle at multiple tracks. Horse has improved at least 2 speed figure points in last two races. I look for that to continue its positive trend in this field. TALCO (FR) - Last ran at Santa Anita and finished fifth. Reviewing his handicapping information, I see he was close at the wire, within 5 of the winner. Sadler brings him back again. I suggest you stick with this hot colt. This horse gets shipped over here after showing signs of class at a major foreign racing venue. A good sign in my opinion. This colt is certainly on the improve with speed figs of 92, 100, 107 last three out.
Vulnerable Contenders: #2 LEXIE LOU (ML=3/1), #3 FLAMBOYANT (FR) (ML=6/1),
LEXIE LOU - This filly registered a fig in her last event which likely isn't good enough in today's race. FLAMBOYANT (FR) - This colt finished off the board on August 31st and wasn't near the winner in the last race either.
Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - CALIFORNIA CHROME - With the highest last speed rating of 119, this colt looks exceptional against these thoroughbreds.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #4 SAWYER'S HILL to win if you can get at least 9/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,4]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,4,5] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Bar
Laurel Park - Race #1 - Post: 12:35pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $27,000 Class Rating: 67
Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar
#7 TINUVIEL (ML=5/1)
#2 WISE DAMES (ML=5/2)
#4 CHAIN LIGHTNING (ML=6/1)
TINUVIEL - Mancilla and Mancilla perform well when they combine forces. It's hard to beat a +320 return on investment for a jockey and trainer. Took a big class drop last out, and I think she may have needed it. Mancilla enters her at a similar class level today. I'd expect an improved performance. WISE DAMES - Looking at today's class figure, this thoroughbred is up against an easier group than last time out at Penn National. This entrant earns a lot of money per race around the track. I believe she can augment the lifetime earnings in this event. CHAIN LIGHTNING - I have to believe that today's shorter trip should help this filly. Took a significant drop in class rating in the last race at Santa Anita. Returning to a similar level in today's race. Should perform well right here.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 CITY ANGEL (ML=2/1), #5 HEAVENLY SKY (ML=5/1), #1 COUNT MY BLESSINGS (ML=8/1),
CITY ANGEL - I usually bet against a turf horse trying the dirt for the first time. HEAVENLY SKY - Just can't wager on this pony. Didn't show me anything last time around the track or on Sep 13th. COUNT MY BLESSINGS - Hard to bet on at 8/1 odds after the two most recent efforts.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #7 TINUVIEL on the win end if we get at least 9/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [4,7]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [2,4,7] Total Cost: $6
Bar
Laurel Park - Race #1 - Post: 12:35pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $27,000 Class Rating: 67
Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar
#7 TINUVIEL (ML=5/1)
#2 WISE DAMES (ML=5/2)
#4 CHAIN LIGHTNING (ML=6/1)
TINUVIEL - Mancilla and Mancilla perform well when they combine forces. It's hard to beat a +320 return on investment for a jockey and trainer. Took a big class drop last out, and I think she may have needed it. Mancilla enters her at a similar class level today. I'd expect an improved performance. WISE DAMES - Looking at today's class figure, this thoroughbred is up against an easier group than last time out at Penn National. This entrant earns a lot of money per race around the track. I believe she can augment the lifetime earnings in this event. CHAIN LIGHTNING - I have to believe that today's shorter trip should help this filly. Took a significant drop in class rating in the last race at Santa Anita. Returning to a similar level in today's race. Should perform well right here.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 CITY ANGEL (ML=2/1), #5 HEAVENLY SKY (ML=5/1), #1 COUNT MY BLESSINGS (ML=8/1),
CITY ANGEL - I usually bet against a turf horse trying the dirt for the first time. HEAVENLY SKY - Just can't wager on this pony. Didn't show me anything last time around the track or on Sep 13th. COUNT MY BLESSINGS - Hard to bet on at 8/1 odds after the two most recent efforts.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #7 TINUVIEL on the win end if we get at least 9/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [4,7]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [2,4,7] Total Cost: $6
Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct
RACE #10 - AQUEDUCT - 4:18 PM EASTERN POST
The Cigar Mile Handicap
8.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE I THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $500,000.00 PURSE
#1 PRIVATE ZONE
#6 SECRET CIRCLE
#2 ITSMYLUCKYDAY
#4 VYJACK
The Cigar Mile was originally run as the N.Y.R.A. MILE prior to 1997, and was renamed that year in honor of the two-time Horse of the Year who won the 1994 edition. Cigar equaled Citation's modern-day North American record of 16 consecutive victories with his win in the Citation Challenge at Arlington International in 1996. Among his victories during that streak were the 1995 Woodward, the 1995 Jockey Club Gold Cub, the 1995 Breeders' Cup Classic, and the 1996 Woodward, all at Belmont Park; as well as the aforementioned 1994 NYRA Mile at Aqueduct.
Here in the 26th running of this Grade I test, #1 PRIVATE ZONE will enjoy a speed advantage on this field, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in five straight starts, hitting the board in three, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 2nd race back, in a race which was contested at today's TrackMaster PLUS Class Level of 118. #6 SECRET CIRCLE, the morning line favorite, has hit the board in five straight, winning twice, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 4th race back.
RACE #10 - AQUEDUCT - 4:18 PM EASTERN POST
The Cigar Mile Handicap
8.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE I THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $500,000.00 PURSE
#1 PRIVATE ZONE
#6 SECRET CIRCLE
#2 ITSMYLUCKYDAY
#4 VYJACK
The Cigar Mile was originally run as the N.Y.R.A. MILE prior to 1997, and was renamed that year in honor of the two-time Horse of the Year who won the 1994 edition. Cigar equaled Citation's modern-day North American record of 16 consecutive victories with his win in the Citation Challenge at Arlington International in 1996. Among his victories during that streak were the 1995 Woodward, the 1995 Jockey Club Gold Cub, the 1995 Breeders' Cup Classic, and the 1996 Woodward, all at Belmont Park; as well as the aforementioned 1994 NYRA Mile at Aqueduct.
Here in the 26th running of this Grade I test, #1 PRIVATE ZONE will enjoy a speed advantage on this field, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in five straight starts, hitting the board in three, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 2nd race back, in a race which was contested at today's TrackMaster PLUS Class Level of 118. #6 SECRET CIRCLE, the morning line favorite, has hit the board in five straight, winning twice, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 4th race back.
Balmoral: Saturday 11/29 Analysis
By Jeremey Day
DRF HARNESS
Race 10 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Best Bet (49 - 97 / $193.90): KANARIS (8th)
Spot Play: FOX VALLEY REBEL (7th)
Race 1
(1) SURCLASSER bumps up in class but could have more to offer. The trotter gets the best post and was the driver's choice. (2) FOX VALLEY VETO comes into the race off a break but just missed at this level the start prior. (6) MASTER OF EXCUSES wet a big effort last out against tougher; threat.
Race 2
In a really weak field (8) PARKLANE SPARKLE has beaten better and gets sent out for a trainer that has them ready when they hit the track. (1) WIZE UP was knocking on the door at this level before getting roughed up last out. (2) SWEET ALYSSA filly should be used underneath only; command a price.
Race 3
(1) DIXIE'S BOY gets a huge driver change with the best post; big chance. (2) HOT ROD PETE can't seem to get over the hump when it comes to getting his picture taken but has hit the board all year long. (5) FIRST FROST lightly raced pacer looks to be progressing nicely and is a threat at a price.
Race 4
(2) IN OVER MY HEAD picks up the top driver and should be closer turning for home with plenty of pace to close into; fires late. (4) BEST MAN HANOVER is sneaky sharp right now and versatile. (6) ICE SCRAPER will set a blazing pace off the gate playing catch me if you can for a hot trainer; vulnerable late.
Race 5
(6) WHISTLE PIG mare could have more to offer second start at the track down in class. (5) JUST BY DESIGN comes out of the same race as the top choice and raced gamely last out. (3) DALLAS JONES mare drew off last start out but gets sent out for a low percentage pilot.
Race 6
(4) LOLITA HALL well bred mare looks to be getting better with every start. (3) DANCINONTHETABLE filly owns a good burst of speed and should be in line for a good trip up close. (7) PERCHED ON TOP filly could have an excuse with the off track last race. A good effort puts her right on the wire.
Race 7
(3) FOX VALLEY REBEL is sitting on a big effort for proven connections one of these weeks. (8) JACKSON BERLOW is racing better than his lines indicate and is a trouble-free trip away from hitting the board. (7) WASHINGTON HANOVER the driver missed the gate last week taking him out of the race but trainer has been hot as of recent; threat.
Race 8
(7) KANARIS takes a significant drop in class and will be used aggressively. (8) FOX VALLEY NORMAN is capable of pacing a good mile with the right setup. (4) FIRST CLASSALLTHWAY gelding owns some back class and could be one of few threats to the top choice.
Race 9
(1) PARTY HANOVER should be better second start after a long ship in from out east. The pacer dominated this bunch a few months ago. (5) RYLEIGH'S LILLY mare is inconsistent from week to week but has been razor sharp in her last two. (4) STATE STREET LIZ mare will be blasting off the gate and could get a nice pocket trip.
Race 10
(1a) BIG BRAD four-year-old stallion has been off his game but could rebound down in class. (5) REAL WINNER pacer faces slightly easier and could be sitting on a big effort. (2a) PRAIRIE THUNDER is probably best suited for the big track but gets sent out for very inconsistent connections.
Race 11
(2) E R RHONDA filly faces older but makes her first start in a new barn for connections that do really well in this scenario. (4) REV ME UP owns all the back class and drops back down to a level where she can compete. (1) WINDOW WIPER mare was good last out kicking home nicely but needs more to hit the top spot.
Race 12
(8) SVAYA KNOWS going to try the pacer one more time on top. The 3-year-old owns a good move but needs a smooth trip to cash. (4) SUNSET DREAMER got rough-gaited when leaving for the top spot last out. The pacer will be firing early and has been getting better. (9) ACES AGAIN is probably best suited coming from off the pace. The pacer has burned cash in three straight and will probably offer a much better price; fires late.
Race 13
(8) BELL VALLEY BILL needed his last start and should have more to offer second start back off a layoff. (1) SHISWELL'S DELIGHT gets the best post, will offer a nice price, and has been competitive at this level. (5) ASHES N DUST picks up a significant driver change and was improved last start.
By Jeremey Day
DRF HARNESS
Race 10 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Best Bet (49 - 97 / $193.90): KANARIS (8th)
Spot Play: FOX VALLEY REBEL (7th)
Race 1
(1) SURCLASSER bumps up in class but could have more to offer. The trotter gets the best post and was the driver's choice. (2) FOX VALLEY VETO comes into the race off a break but just missed at this level the start prior. (6) MASTER OF EXCUSES wet a big effort last out against tougher; threat.
Race 2
In a really weak field (8) PARKLANE SPARKLE has beaten better and gets sent out for a trainer that has them ready when they hit the track. (1) WIZE UP was knocking on the door at this level before getting roughed up last out. (2) SWEET ALYSSA filly should be used underneath only; command a price.
Race 3
(1) DIXIE'S BOY gets a huge driver change with the best post; big chance. (2) HOT ROD PETE can't seem to get over the hump when it comes to getting his picture taken but has hit the board all year long. (5) FIRST FROST lightly raced pacer looks to be progressing nicely and is a threat at a price.
Race 4
(2) IN OVER MY HEAD picks up the top driver and should be closer turning for home with plenty of pace to close into; fires late. (4) BEST MAN HANOVER is sneaky sharp right now and versatile. (6) ICE SCRAPER will set a blazing pace off the gate playing catch me if you can for a hot trainer; vulnerable late.
Race 5
(6) WHISTLE PIG mare could have more to offer second start at the track down in class. (5) JUST BY DESIGN comes out of the same race as the top choice and raced gamely last out. (3) DALLAS JONES mare drew off last start out but gets sent out for a low percentage pilot.
Race 6
(4) LOLITA HALL well bred mare looks to be getting better with every start. (3) DANCINONTHETABLE filly owns a good burst of speed and should be in line for a good trip up close. (7) PERCHED ON TOP filly could have an excuse with the off track last race. A good effort puts her right on the wire.
Race 7
(3) FOX VALLEY REBEL is sitting on a big effort for proven connections one of these weeks. (8) JACKSON BERLOW is racing better than his lines indicate and is a trouble-free trip away from hitting the board. (7) WASHINGTON HANOVER the driver missed the gate last week taking him out of the race but trainer has been hot as of recent; threat.
Race 8
(7) KANARIS takes a significant drop in class and will be used aggressively. (8) FOX VALLEY NORMAN is capable of pacing a good mile with the right setup. (4) FIRST CLASSALLTHWAY gelding owns some back class and could be one of few threats to the top choice.
Race 9
(1) PARTY HANOVER should be better second start after a long ship in from out east. The pacer dominated this bunch a few months ago. (5) RYLEIGH'S LILLY mare is inconsistent from week to week but has been razor sharp in her last two. (4) STATE STREET LIZ mare will be blasting off the gate and could get a nice pocket trip.
Race 10
(1a) BIG BRAD four-year-old stallion has been off his game but could rebound down in class. (5) REAL WINNER pacer faces slightly easier and could be sitting on a big effort. (2a) PRAIRIE THUNDER is probably best suited for the big track but gets sent out for very inconsistent connections.
Race 11
(2) E R RHONDA filly faces older but makes her first start in a new barn for connections that do really well in this scenario. (4) REV ME UP owns all the back class and drops back down to a level where she can compete. (1) WINDOW WIPER mare was good last out kicking home nicely but needs more to hit the top spot.
Race 12
(8) SVAYA KNOWS going to try the pacer one more time on top. The 3-year-old owns a good move but needs a smooth trip to cash. (4) SUNSET DREAMER got rough-gaited when leaving for the top spot last out. The pacer will be firing early and has been getting better. (9) ACES AGAIN is probably best suited coming from off the pace. The pacer has burned cash in three straight and will probably offer a much better price; fires late.
Race 13
(8) BELL VALLEY BILL needed his last start and should have more to offer second start back off a layoff. (1) SHISWELL'S DELIGHT gets the best post, will offer a nice price, and has been competitive at this level. (5) ASHES N DUST picks up a significant driver change and was improved last start.
Meadowlands: Saturday 11/29 Analysis
By Derick Giwner
DRF HARNESS
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
MEET STATS: 12 - 52 / $60.20 BEST BETS: 2 - 3 / $6.00
Best Bet: ROCKEYED OPTIMIST (5th)
Spot Play: STALLONE BLUE CHIP (13th)
Race 1
(1) NASSAU COUNTY gets his claiming price cut nearly in half and hails from a barn that has started the meet with a pair of wins. (6) EXPENSIVE TOY ships in sharp from Yonkers and has early speed. (8) NUCLEAR ENEMY is another with good early foot.
Race 2
(1) MAXI BON was used hard early in both recent starts and now gets perfectly drawn way inside the logical favorites. Don't be shocked if he steps up with a big mile. (7) SWEET ROCK destroyed a much easier field last time. (6) SOMESTARSOMEWHERE seems to race down to the level of his competition. It is impossible to 'love' this horse as the favorite.
Race 3
(1B) JOURNEYMAN & (1) HALL BRO form two-thirds of an entry that looks like a legitimate 3-5 shot. Both horses are very sharp. (4) CAVIART LUCA couldn't overcome the trip last time; driver change tonight. (2) CAVIART CHASE has speed and form.
Race 4
(3) SID ROCK took a shot first over and faded last time. New driver Corey Callahan can get more out of him. (10) ACE OF SHARKS looks like the one to beat, but is stuck in post 10. (1) WHITE BLISS finds an easier spot this week; needs to show more.
Race 5
(8) ROCKEYED OPTIMIST paced a 54 1/5 final half in his first start since August. Connections were clearly giving the 3YO an easy mile; expecting more now. (6) JK PATRIOT ships in sharp and picks up Gingras. (2) BADIX HANOVER draws well this week and could be aggressive early on.
Race 6
(5) BETTORS GLASS was very sharp before racing over his head last time at Philly. Six-year-old draws a good post to work with tonight. (7) SHOOTER'S DREAM is clearly racing well now. (1) LONG LIVE ROCK drops back down to the level of his last win two starts ago. (2) CAM B ZIPPER has shown past success here.
Race 7
(3) SWEET LOU put in a huge mile in the Breeders Crown and certainly deserved to win. He is the clear one to beat in career finale. (2) MODERN LEGEND also raced very well while uncovered in the Crown. Any smooth trip would give him a big shot of winning. (4) CLEAR VISION is not going to pass multiple horses at this level. He needs to be closer on the rim to have a shot.
Race 8
(2) IAM BONASERA should be sharper in his second start after seven weeks off. Erv Miller trainee knows how to win and is plenty fast. (5) SECOND WIND N couldn't overcome the outside draw most recently. Classy veteran figures to fire off the gate from this post. (7) SCHOOLKIDS posted a convincing score versus easier.
Race 9
(8) LONEWOLF CURRIER raced evenly in his first start of 2014. Speedy 4-year-old has every right to be ready for a big mile now. (2) MY TEMUDJIN N got away slowly and lost any chance versus B-2 foes; class drop. (7) MIGHT YOUNG JOE already has five wins at the Meadowlands this year.
Race 10
(2) WISHING STONE finally draws well after a string of outside posts in big events. If he can somehow work out a decent trip, the reward will be huge. (1) CREATINE raced very well in the Breeders Crown and should be handled aggressively tonight. (5) SEBASTIAN K has been the divisional leader all year but hasn't won since August. I respect his chances but have reservations. (6) MARKET SHARE was very flat in the Crown final; needed the start?
Race 11
(6) ASLAN couldn't be any sharper. Any reasonable trip should place him in the photo. (5) SPEED AGAIN has high speed and could steal the race. (7) GOLDEN RECEIVER qualified well; classy.
Race 12
(2) ESPEN DE VIE finds a much softer spot this week and should improve. (6) AGOOD TIME TO ROCK just missed last week at this level. (10) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE has ability but needs a trip from the bad post.
Race 13
(7) STALLONE BLUE CHIP couldn't close on a night when speed was playing very well. He drops in class now and should be very tough. (12) ALEX BULLVILLE also gets to move down a notch. (8) OPEN WATER doesn't win often but could get a big piece if he guns off the gate. (10) BUBBIE BOY faces easier.
By Derick Giwner
DRF HARNESS
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
MEET STATS: 12 - 52 / $60.20 BEST BETS: 2 - 3 / $6.00
Best Bet: ROCKEYED OPTIMIST (5th)
Spot Play: STALLONE BLUE CHIP (13th)
Race 1
(1) NASSAU COUNTY gets his claiming price cut nearly in half and hails from a barn that has started the meet with a pair of wins. (6) EXPENSIVE TOY ships in sharp from Yonkers and has early speed. (8) NUCLEAR ENEMY is another with good early foot.
Race 2
(1) MAXI BON was used hard early in both recent starts and now gets perfectly drawn way inside the logical favorites. Don't be shocked if he steps up with a big mile. (7) SWEET ROCK destroyed a much easier field last time. (6) SOMESTARSOMEWHERE seems to race down to the level of his competition. It is impossible to 'love' this horse as the favorite.
Race 3
(1B) JOURNEYMAN & (1) HALL BRO form two-thirds of an entry that looks like a legitimate 3-5 shot. Both horses are very sharp. (4) CAVIART LUCA couldn't overcome the trip last time; driver change tonight. (2) CAVIART CHASE has speed and form.
Race 4
(3) SID ROCK took a shot first over and faded last time. New driver Corey Callahan can get more out of him. (10) ACE OF SHARKS looks like the one to beat, but is stuck in post 10. (1) WHITE BLISS finds an easier spot this week; needs to show more.
Race 5
(8) ROCKEYED OPTIMIST paced a 54 1/5 final half in his first start since August. Connections were clearly giving the 3YO an easy mile; expecting more now. (6) JK PATRIOT ships in sharp and picks up Gingras. (2) BADIX HANOVER draws well this week and could be aggressive early on.
Race 6
(5) BETTORS GLASS was very sharp before racing over his head last time at Philly. Six-year-old draws a good post to work with tonight. (7) SHOOTER'S DREAM is clearly racing well now. (1) LONG LIVE ROCK drops back down to the level of his last win two starts ago. (2) CAM B ZIPPER has shown past success here.
Race 7
(3) SWEET LOU put in a huge mile in the Breeders Crown and certainly deserved to win. He is the clear one to beat in career finale. (2) MODERN LEGEND also raced very well while uncovered in the Crown. Any smooth trip would give him a big shot of winning. (4) CLEAR VISION is not going to pass multiple horses at this level. He needs to be closer on the rim to have a shot.
Race 8
(2) IAM BONASERA should be sharper in his second start after seven weeks off. Erv Miller trainee knows how to win and is plenty fast. (5) SECOND WIND N couldn't overcome the outside draw most recently. Classy veteran figures to fire off the gate from this post. (7) SCHOOLKIDS posted a convincing score versus easier.
Race 9
(8) LONEWOLF CURRIER raced evenly in his first start of 2014. Speedy 4-year-old has every right to be ready for a big mile now. (2) MY TEMUDJIN N got away slowly and lost any chance versus B-2 foes; class drop. (7) MIGHT YOUNG JOE already has five wins at the Meadowlands this year.
Race 10
(2) WISHING STONE finally draws well after a string of outside posts in big events. If he can somehow work out a decent trip, the reward will be huge. (1) CREATINE raced very well in the Breeders Crown and should be handled aggressively tonight. (5) SEBASTIAN K has been the divisional leader all year but hasn't won since August. I respect his chances but have reservations. (6) MARKET SHARE was very flat in the Crown final; needed the start?
Race 11
(6) ASLAN couldn't be any sharper. Any reasonable trip should place him in the photo. (5) SPEED AGAIN has high speed and could steal the race. (7) GOLDEN RECEIVER qualified well; classy.
Race 12
(2) ESPEN DE VIE finds a much softer spot this week and should improve. (6) AGOOD TIME TO ROCK just missed last week at this level. (10) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE has ability but needs a trip from the bad post.
Race 13
(7) STALLONE BLUE CHIP couldn't close on a night when speed was playing very well. He drops in class now and should be very tough. (12) ALEX BULLVILLE also gets to move down a notch. (8) OPEN WATER doesn't win often but could get a big piece if he guns off the gate. (10) BUBBIE BOY faces easier.
Yonkers: Saturday 11/29 Analysis
By Matt Rose
DRF HARNESS
MEET STATS: 355 - 1034 / $1873.10 BEST BETS: 57 - 84 / $185.20
Best Bet: HILLBILLY HANOVER (5th)
Spot Play: MC DYNAMITE (9th)
Race 1
(3) BLADE SEELSTER always races well and always offers a price; with some luck he can score again. (1) GEORGE JETTISON finally lands a good post for his new connections. (2) VENGANCE is up in class for new connections off the claim and he lands a good inside spot.
Race 2
(5) JUSTIFIED drops in class and is reunited with Brennan; classy Burke trainee should be heading to the front. (2) BROOKSTONE drops a notch off last week's front-end meltdown; Bartlett is back driving. (1) COLBY JATE returns locally and has been racing competitively in Pennsylvania.
Race 3
(1) SON OF FERGIE A closed a ton last week for Vallee and he's rewarded with the rail; he can stalk and go right by late. (5) HERE WE GO AGAIN will probably jog because I didn't pick him on top this time. Veteran is a major contender with the drop in class. (3) TALKING BLUES was second best last week from a similar spot.
Race 4
(3) A COOL CARD had no chance from the eight hole in his local debut; Brainard trainee will be much more involved tonight. (4) TOWNSLIGHT HANOVER has been racing well out of town and he looks like a good fit here. (3) FAMEOUS WESTERN raced okay last week but could have offered more.
Race 5
(5) HILLBILLY HANOVER returns locally at a much reduced level and the Burke-trained veteran looks very solid from this spot. (2) LIFE UP FRONT was flat from the pocket last week; I'll include him one more time hoping for improvement. (4) P L FIGHTER is back with Bartlett and has hit the board in four-of-five since the Fraley claim.
Race 6
(5) MICKEY HANOVER returns off a failed try at Pocono; prior two local efforts were very sharp. (6) BEACH MEMORIES debuts for Burke tonight and he just missed in his last two Big M tries, both solid efforts. (8) P H SUPERCAM is assigned outside again and may have too much ground to cover.
Race 7
(5) SAPPHIRE CITY is up in class off back-to-back wins; classy gelding looks sharp again and can easily take another. (1) UPFRONT COUNTRYBOY is also ascending the class ladder after a series of solid efforts. (3) MORTAL ZIN was flying home last week to just miss and he can land a share from this spot.
Race 8
(1) SANTANNA ONE is back inside and his last three races from good posts resulted in victories. (4) RONNY BUGATTI sat in last week and never had a chance as the 6/5 favorite; something tells me he'll be more involved tonight. (6) KIWI IDEAL N has ability and could be a closing threat.
Race 9
(5) MC DYNAMITE was airborne in the stretch last out and he can power past here with any sort of favorable trip. (4) THIRTY TWO RED trailed with little chance last week but he should be more involved from this spot. (7) OFF LIKA PROMDRESS didn't fire last week in a strange race; four-year-old has ability.
Race 10
(2) FOREVER JUST gets some needed class relief and draws much better as well; Auciello trainee should never be too far back. (6) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY also drops off a decent effort last out; (5) FASTLANELUKE double-jumps off a solid win and he could hit the ticket here at a decent price.
Race 11
(1) VALIDUS DEO is another who always benefits from an inside post postion; Bartlett's back driving tonight. (5) FOOL ME ONCE tired on the front end last out with no excuse; Alagna trainee should be better than that. (4) BULLET BOB does have early speed at his disposal; let's see if he leaves the gate.
Race 12
(4) BJ'S GUY held very gamely last week after a long uncovered trip; Godinez trainee appears ready to score. (3) FAT MANS ALLEY is back inside, which makes all the difference; will he be overbet? (1) DIAMOND COWBOY retreated after flashing early speed last week; prior effort, his first for Allard, was solid.
By Matt Rose
DRF HARNESS
MEET STATS: 355 - 1034 / $1873.10 BEST BETS: 57 - 84 / $185.20
Best Bet: HILLBILLY HANOVER (5th)
Spot Play: MC DYNAMITE (9th)
Race 1
(3) BLADE SEELSTER always races well and always offers a price; with some luck he can score again. (1) GEORGE JETTISON finally lands a good post for his new connections. (2) VENGANCE is up in class for new connections off the claim and he lands a good inside spot.
Race 2
(5) JUSTIFIED drops in class and is reunited with Brennan; classy Burke trainee should be heading to the front. (2) BROOKSTONE drops a notch off last week's front-end meltdown; Bartlett is back driving. (1) COLBY JATE returns locally and has been racing competitively in Pennsylvania.
Race 3
(1) SON OF FERGIE A closed a ton last week for Vallee and he's rewarded with the rail; he can stalk and go right by late. (5) HERE WE GO AGAIN will probably jog because I didn't pick him on top this time. Veteran is a major contender with the drop in class. (3) TALKING BLUES was second best last week from a similar spot.
Race 4
(3) A COOL CARD had no chance from the eight hole in his local debut; Brainard trainee will be much more involved tonight. (4) TOWNSLIGHT HANOVER has been racing well out of town and he looks like a good fit here. (3) FAMEOUS WESTERN raced okay last week but could have offered more.
Race 5
(5) HILLBILLY HANOVER returns locally at a much reduced level and the Burke-trained veteran looks very solid from this spot. (2) LIFE UP FRONT was flat from the pocket last week; I'll include him one more time hoping for improvement. (4) P L FIGHTER is back with Bartlett and has hit the board in four-of-five since the Fraley claim.
Race 6
(5) MICKEY HANOVER returns off a failed try at Pocono; prior two local efforts were very sharp. (6) BEACH MEMORIES debuts for Burke tonight and he just missed in his last two Big M tries, both solid efforts. (8) P H SUPERCAM is assigned outside again and may have too much ground to cover.
Race 7
(5) SAPPHIRE CITY is up in class off back-to-back wins; classy gelding looks sharp again and can easily take another. (1) UPFRONT COUNTRYBOY is also ascending the class ladder after a series of solid efforts. (3) MORTAL ZIN was flying home last week to just miss and he can land a share from this spot.
Race 8
(1) SANTANNA ONE is back inside and his last three races from good posts resulted in victories. (4) RONNY BUGATTI sat in last week and never had a chance as the 6/5 favorite; something tells me he'll be more involved tonight. (6) KIWI IDEAL N has ability and could be a closing threat.
Race 9
(5) MC DYNAMITE was airborne in the stretch last out and he can power past here with any sort of favorable trip. (4) THIRTY TWO RED trailed with little chance last week but he should be more involved from this spot. (7) OFF LIKA PROMDRESS didn't fire last week in a strange race; four-year-old has ability.
Race 10
(2) FOREVER JUST gets some needed class relief and draws much better as well; Auciello trainee should never be too far back. (6) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY also drops off a decent effort last out; (5) FASTLANELUKE double-jumps off a solid win and he could hit the ticket here at a decent price.
Race 11
(1) VALIDUS DEO is another who always benefits from an inside post postion; Bartlett's back driving tonight. (5) FOOL ME ONCE tired on the front end last out with no excuse; Alagna trainee should be better than that. (4) BULLET BOB does have early speed at his disposal; let's see if he leaves the gate.
Race 12
(4) BJ'S GUY held very gamely last week after a long uncovered trip; Godinez trainee appears ready to score. (3) FAT MANS ALLEY is back inside, which makes all the difference; will he be overbet? (1) DIAMOND COWBOY retreated after flashing early speed last week; prior effort, his first for Allard, was solid.
SPOT PLAYS
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (3rd) Divine Luck, 6-1
(8th) Quezon, 5-1
Charles Town (2nd) Heron's Waltz, 4-1
(4th) Go Kid Go, 7-2
Churchill Downs (5th) Sailing Shiksa, 4-1
(9th) West Coast Belle, 4-1
Del Mar (1st) Kantune, 7-2
(2nd) Galehorn, 7-2
Delta Downs (1st) Gabby's Toga, 9-2
(6th) Higher Ed, 3-1
Fair Grounds (2nd) Powder Road, 4-1
(5th) Debbie Ann, 4-1
Golden Gate Fields (8th) Single Launch, 3-1
(9th) The Gray Hound, 4-1
Gulfstream Park West (4th) Lady Mayfair, 4-1
(8th) Firespike, 3-1
Hawthorne (2nd) Getwutupreyfor, 5-1
(5th) Hapman, 4-1
Laurel Park (1st) Tinuviel, 5-1
(5th) Tripmeister, 3-1
Mahoning Valley (5th) Gray Dowry, 7-2
(8th) Sweet Intimidator, 4-1
Mountaineer (4th) U S Frequentflyer, 5-1
(7th) Carnival Kid, 9-2
Parx (5th) Persuasive Girl, 4-1
(9th) Trust in Tebow, 4-1
Penn National (6th) Scarlet's Number, 3-1
(10th) May Day Cash, 4-1
Remington Park (5th) Holiday Clover, 7-2
(8th) King Kid, 9-2
Retama Park (5th) Potente Rivale, 4-1
(10th) Our Romeo, 4-1
Tampa Bay Downs (2nd) Magic Olivia, 3-1
(5th) Anchorwoman, 7-2
Woodbine (2nd) Lumber Man, 4-1
(6th) Boggie, 7-2
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (3rd) Divine Luck, 6-1
(8th) Quezon, 5-1
Charles Town (2nd) Heron's Waltz, 4-1
(4th) Go Kid Go, 7-2
Churchill Downs (5th) Sailing Shiksa, 4-1
(9th) West Coast Belle, 4-1
Del Mar (1st) Kantune, 7-2
(2nd) Galehorn, 7-2
Delta Downs (1st) Gabby's Toga, 9-2
(6th) Higher Ed, 3-1
Fair Grounds (2nd) Powder Road, 4-1
(5th) Debbie Ann, 4-1
Golden Gate Fields (8th) Single Launch, 3-1
(9th) The Gray Hound, 4-1
Gulfstream Park West (4th) Lady Mayfair, 4-1
(8th) Firespike, 3-1
Hawthorne (2nd) Getwutupreyfor, 5-1
(5th) Hapman, 4-1
Laurel Park (1st) Tinuviel, 5-1
(5th) Tripmeister, 3-1
Mahoning Valley (5th) Gray Dowry, 7-2
(8th) Sweet Intimidator, 4-1
Mountaineer (4th) U S Frequentflyer, 5-1
(7th) Carnival Kid, 9-2
Parx (5th) Persuasive Girl, 4-1
(9th) Trust in Tebow, 4-1
Penn National (6th) Scarlet's Number, 3-1
(10th) May Day Cash, 4-1
Remington Park (5th) Holiday Clover, 7-2
(8th) King Kid, 9-2
Retama Park (5th) Potente Rivale, 4-1
(10th) Our Romeo, 4-1
Tampa Bay Downs (2nd) Magic Olivia, 3-1
(5th) Anchorwoman, 7-2
Woodbine (2nd) Lumber Man, 4-1
(6th) Boggie, 7-2
Soccer EPL Best Bets - Week 12
By Toby Maxtone-Smith
It was a good week for English clubs in the Champions League.
In three England vs. Germany clashes, the English club won all three. Chelsea were fantastic in their 5-0 demolition of Schalke. The 1/6 Premier League favourites have now moved ahead of Barcelona in the betting to win their second Champions League title. Arsenal secured qualification with a 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund, while a Sergio Aguero hat-trick kept Manchester City’s hopes alive with a 3-2 win against Bayern Munich. The only blip came from Liverpool (predictable - given their start to the season). However, both the Reds and Man City know that a win would send them through.
The most eye-catching game in the Premier League this weekend sees second-placed Southampton face Man City. Southampton’s great start may have been hidden somewhat by a relatively easy start, but a win at St. Mary’s on Sunday would be a huge statement of intent. Elsewhere, Chelsea travel to Sunderland, Arsenal travel to West Brom and Manchester United, fresh from a win at the Emirates, welcome Hull City.
Let's handicap Week 12 of the Premier League.
The Banker: Chelsea to win to nil at Sunderland at 23/20
Chelsea look by far the best team in England at the moment, and that is reflected in the 4/11 on them to win their 11th match of 13 in the league this season up at Sunderland on Saturday. Whereas last season, it was away games to struggling teams that cost Chelsea the title, this year they have had no trouble with such fixtures. Their only dropped points have been away to the two Manchester clubs. Sunderland have played some decent football on home soil this season, albeit with just one win to show for it, but they won’t cause Chelsea many problems.
Sunderland’s strategy against the big teams tends to be fairly defensive, and that is reflected in home draws to Spurs, Everton and Manchester United. Chelsea, however, are a cut above those teams, and 23/20 on them winning to nil is a value bet.
The Solid Bet: Manchester City to win at Southampton at 13/10
This is where we’ll see what Southampton are made of. Having started the season as the seventh or eighth favourites to go down, the Saints have won eight of their twelve games so far and sit second in the table. They have won five and drawn one at home, and will be in confident mood for the visit of Manchester City in Sunday’s early kick-off.
However, those six home matches have come against West Brom, Newcastle (when they were in crisis), QPR, Sunderland, Stoke and Leicester. On the road, Southampton have lost their two hardest matches against Liverpool and Spurs. And the more those two teams struggle, the worse those results look for Ronald Koeman’s men.
Manchester City have lost just two of their last 19 in the league. In Sergio Aguero, they have the best player in the Premier League right now. The Argentine has 12 in his last 10, and Southampton looked suspect to pace in their last match - against Aston Villa.
The Outsider: Everton to win at Tottenham Hotspur at 9/4
Both these sides were in Europa League action on Thursday, and it is Everton who are further along in their development as a side than Spurs. They won impressively in Wolfsburg last time out, and now have Romelu Lukaku hitting some form after a slow start to the season. Spurs, meanwhile, put in what seems like their millionth lacklustre display in the last three years as they beat Partizan Belgrade 1-0. Everton started the season strangely, conceding heaps of goals, but they have been more solid of late. The Toffees are now five games in the league without defeat, and have only lost once away all season.
Spurs are tenth, but really they should be lower. Their last two Premier League wins, against Hull and Aston Villa, have been identical. They have gone 1-0 down, played awfully, and have needed opposition red cards before they turn the game around to win. These lucky results represent two of their three wins since August. In that time, they’ve lost at home to Newcastle, Stoke and West Brom. Everton are a far better side than all of them, and can increase the worried mood around White Hart Lane
The First Goalscorer: Alexis Sanchez to score first for Arsenal at West Brom at 4/1
Arsenal are usually a team I look to oppose away from home, but this week might be an exception. They put in a very encouraging performance in the Champions League, and have one or two key players coming back from injury. West Brom are 14th in the league, and their only goal in their last three was an own goal against Leicester. They have been leaky at the back on home turf, having conceded twice in all but one of their games at The Hawthorns.
Without Alexis Sanchez, Arsenal would be nowhere this year. He has eight goals in his last eight games for Arsenal, and might just be too good for West Brom. With Arsenal struggling for other goalscoring options, it may be worth taking the 4/1 on the Chilean breaking the deadlock.
By Toby Maxtone-Smith
It was a good week for English clubs in the Champions League.
In three England vs. Germany clashes, the English club won all three. Chelsea were fantastic in their 5-0 demolition of Schalke. The 1/6 Premier League favourites have now moved ahead of Barcelona in the betting to win their second Champions League title. Arsenal secured qualification with a 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund, while a Sergio Aguero hat-trick kept Manchester City’s hopes alive with a 3-2 win against Bayern Munich. The only blip came from Liverpool (predictable - given their start to the season). However, both the Reds and Man City know that a win would send them through.
The most eye-catching game in the Premier League this weekend sees second-placed Southampton face Man City. Southampton’s great start may have been hidden somewhat by a relatively easy start, but a win at St. Mary’s on Sunday would be a huge statement of intent. Elsewhere, Chelsea travel to Sunderland, Arsenal travel to West Brom and Manchester United, fresh from a win at the Emirates, welcome Hull City.
Let's handicap Week 12 of the Premier League.
The Banker: Chelsea to win to nil at Sunderland at 23/20
Chelsea look by far the best team in England at the moment, and that is reflected in the 4/11 on them to win their 11th match of 13 in the league this season up at Sunderland on Saturday. Whereas last season, it was away games to struggling teams that cost Chelsea the title, this year they have had no trouble with such fixtures. Their only dropped points have been away to the two Manchester clubs. Sunderland have played some decent football on home soil this season, albeit with just one win to show for it, but they won’t cause Chelsea many problems.
Sunderland’s strategy against the big teams tends to be fairly defensive, and that is reflected in home draws to Spurs, Everton and Manchester United. Chelsea, however, are a cut above those teams, and 23/20 on them winning to nil is a value bet.
The Solid Bet: Manchester City to win at Southampton at 13/10
This is where we’ll see what Southampton are made of. Having started the season as the seventh or eighth favourites to go down, the Saints have won eight of their twelve games so far and sit second in the table. They have won five and drawn one at home, and will be in confident mood for the visit of Manchester City in Sunday’s early kick-off.
However, those six home matches have come against West Brom, Newcastle (when they were in crisis), QPR, Sunderland, Stoke and Leicester. On the road, Southampton have lost their two hardest matches against Liverpool and Spurs. And the more those two teams struggle, the worse those results look for Ronald Koeman’s men.
Manchester City have lost just two of their last 19 in the league. In Sergio Aguero, they have the best player in the Premier League right now. The Argentine has 12 in his last 10, and Southampton looked suspect to pace in their last match - against Aston Villa.
The Outsider: Everton to win at Tottenham Hotspur at 9/4
Both these sides were in Europa League action on Thursday, and it is Everton who are further along in their development as a side than Spurs. They won impressively in Wolfsburg last time out, and now have Romelu Lukaku hitting some form after a slow start to the season. Spurs, meanwhile, put in what seems like their millionth lacklustre display in the last three years as they beat Partizan Belgrade 1-0. Everton started the season strangely, conceding heaps of goals, but they have been more solid of late. The Toffees are now five games in the league without defeat, and have only lost once away all season.
Spurs are tenth, but really they should be lower. Their last two Premier League wins, against Hull and Aston Villa, have been identical. They have gone 1-0 down, played awfully, and have needed opposition red cards before they turn the game around to win. These lucky results represent two of their three wins since August. In that time, they’ve lost at home to Newcastle, Stoke and West Brom. Everton are a far better side than all of them, and can increase the worried mood around White Hart Lane
The First Goalscorer: Alexis Sanchez to score first for Arsenal at West Brom at 4/1
Arsenal are usually a team I look to oppose away from home, but this week might be an exception. They put in a very encouraging performance in the Champions League, and have one or two key players coming back from injury. West Brom are 14th in the league, and their only goal in their last three was an own goal against Leicester. They have been leaky at the back on home turf, having conceded twice in all but one of their games at The Hawthorns.
Without Alexis Sanchez, Arsenal would be nowhere this year. He has eight goals in his last eight games for Arsenal, and might just be too good for West Brom. With Arsenal struggling for other goalscoring options, it may be worth taking the 4/1 on the Chilean breaking the deadlock.
English Premier League betting breakdown: Southampton's stellar season
By SOCCER AUTHORITY
Game of the Week: Southampton (+225) vs. Man City (+140)
Southampton have been this season's surprise package and find themselves in 2nd position after 12 games. Many will argue that the fixture list so far has been relatively easy for the Saints, and that's the reason for their high league position, there's some truth to it! They lost both games against "Top 6" opposition this year (Liverpool and Spurs) so we expect them to struggle here
Man City will be aware that a win on Sunday will leapfrog them above the Saints into 2nd position, and with two wins from two this could be set up nicely for the Citizens.
Key stat: Manchester City have scored in all six of their Premier League away games this season.
Team to watch: Newcastle (+270) (vs. West Ham)
Newcastle are currently on a six-game win streak! They've shot up the table from 18th position to 5th. This week they will travel to London to play a West Ham side who have failed to win any of their last 3 Premier League games.
Key stat: West Ham have only won 2 of the last 17 Premier League games against Newcastle
Underdog of the week: Liverpool (-137) vs. Stoke (+425)
Stoke have only lost away from home twice this season and have beaten respected teams such as Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City along the way. Liverpool don't look like a side that can beat anyone at the moment; their current form reads LLLLD.
Key Stat: Balotelli (Liverpool) has not scored or created a goal in the Premier League this season.
Key Injuries:
Jack Wilshire (Arsenal)
Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)
Edin Dzeko (Man City)
Diego Costa - Probable (Chelsea)
Luke Shaw & Daley Blind (Man Utd)
By SOCCER AUTHORITY
Game of the Week: Southampton (+225) vs. Man City (+140)
Southampton have been this season's surprise package and find themselves in 2nd position after 12 games. Many will argue that the fixture list so far has been relatively easy for the Saints, and that's the reason for their high league position, there's some truth to it! They lost both games against "Top 6" opposition this year (Liverpool and Spurs) so we expect them to struggle here
Man City will be aware that a win on Sunday will leapfrog them above the Saints into 2nd position, and with two wins from two this could be set up nicely for the Citizens.
Key stat: Manchester City have scored in all six of their Premier League away games this season.
Team to watch: Newcastle (+270) (vs. West Ham)
Newcastle are currently on a six-game win streak! They've shot up the table from 18th position to 5th. This week they will travel to London to play a West Ham side who have failed to win any of their last 3 Premier League games.
Key stat: West Ham have only won 2 of the last 17 Premier League games against Newcastle
Underdog of the week: Liverpool (-137) vs. Stoke (+425)
Stoke have only lost away from home twice this season and have beaten respected teams such as Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City along the way. Liverpool don't look like a side that can beat anyone at the moment; their current form reads LLLLD.
Key Stat: Balotelli (Liverpool) has not scored or created a goal in the Premier League this season.
Key Injuries:
Jack Wilshire (Arsenal)
Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool)
Edin Dzeko (Man City)
Diego Costa - Probable (Chelsea)
Luke Shaw & Daley Blind (Man Utd)
NCAAB Fade & Shade Report
By Bruce Marshall
We're only two weeks into the college hoops season, but already some "shade" and "fade" candidates have emerged. These trends can change quickly, but as we hit the end of November, the following sides have caught our eye.
Select teams are presented in conference order.
AMERICAN
SMU....FADE. Larry Brown's Mustangs have had a tough early slate, but they are also not sneaking up on anybody this season, and the current ineligibility of key F Markus Kennedy has depleted the Ponies' frontline. No covers in first four games vs. spread.
TEMPLE...FADE. Still fully respect HC Fran Dunphy, but the Owls had a significant downturn last season, and it might take Dunphy a while to put the pieces back together. Three touted Philly-product transfers have yet to make significant contributions, with Gs Jesse Morgan (UMass) and Devin Coleman (Clemson) yet to gain eligibility and ex-Texas F Jaylen Bond dealing with an ankle injury. Owls shooting only 34.6% from floor through first five games and own just one spread cover (albeit an impressive home win over La Tech), as labored effort vs. supposedly-outmanned Big Five foe Penn on Nov. 25 suggests Temple far from a finished product until further notice.
ATLANTIC 10
RHODE ISLAND...SHADE. Regional sources had suggested to keep an eye on upgrades from Dan Hurley's Rhody, which returned four starters from last year's team that improved six wins (from 8 to 14) a season ago. A nice addition has been touted frosh G Jared Terrell, a punishing 220-pounder (in the mold of Illinois' Rayvonte Rice) already making significant contributions, scoring 12.7 ppg, and Rams have served notice with home win over Big Ten contender Nebraska. Hurley will be looking for improvement beyond the arc (Rhody just 23% triples first three games), but soph G E.C. Matthews (16.3 ppg) has assumed the go-to scoring role of graduated Xavier Munford. Upcoming Nov. 27 battle vs. Kansas will be next indicator if Rams are for real.
GEORGE MASON...FADE. The Patriots picked the wrong year to move from the Colonial to the A-10 last season, as most of the GMU teams over the previous decade (many of those coached by Jim Larranaga) would have fared far better than last year's side that skidded to an 11-20 mark, Mason first non-winning campaign in 14 years. Among the current Patriot concerns are lack of three-point shooting (only 27%), and while juco F Shevon Thompson (12 ppg) is adding some pop on the attack end, what HC Paul Hewitt needs is for Thompson or someone else to begin hitting some 3s, as the GMU halfcourt is poorly-spaced without the ability to connect from longer range. Recent last-place finish in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off is a red flag for Patriots.
ACC
MIAMI-FLA...SHADE. Jim Larranaga had to limp through last season with a depleted offense after all starters had departed following the Sweet 16 run from the previous year. Now it looks as if Larranaga's re-formulated mix has solved some of those issues, as Texas transfer F Sheldon McClellan (16.7 ppg) provides instant offense, while Kansas State transfer G Angel Rodriguez is hitting 49% beyond the arc thru first six games, all Cane wins. Miami impressively romped through the field in last week's Charleston Classic, and the new Canes are getting more familiar with Larranaga's defensive schemes, including his pet "scramble" deployment. Miami looks prepared to get back to the Dance this season.
PITT...FADE. Perhaps the Panthers will eventually round into shape and get Jamie Dixon to his familiar place in the Big Dance come March. But for the moment, the Panthers have an incomplete look, with sr. G Cameron Wright out for a month with foot problems and F Durand Johnson suspended for the season. The Panthers were non-competitive in their Maui Classic semifinal loss vs. San Diego State.
NOTRE DAME...SHADE. Though the Irish lost a close one last week to vastly underrated Providence, it looks like HC Mike Brey has the Domers back on the right track. Especially since key PG Jerian Grant (18.4 ppg and 7.2 apg thru two weeks) is back in good graces after last season's academic-related suspension cost him the second half of the 2013-14 campaign. Brey is also receiving plenty of quality minutes from 6-10 jr. Zach Auguste (16.8 ppg), who has evolved into a capable scoring threat in the post (perhaps even more dangerous than the graduated Garrick Sherman) and is shooting a cool 68% from the floor in the early going.
FLORIDA STATE...FADE. Very slow break from the gate for Leonard Hamilton's Noles, who have dropped three of four straight up and all four of those vs. the number since an opening win over Manhattan. FSU is not stretching opposing defenses because it hasn't been able to consistently shoot the three-ball with any accuracy (FSU just 25% beyond arc). Hamilton is counting heavily upon 6-4 frosh G Xavier Rathan-Mayes to help jump start the offense, though the young Canadian has been erratic in his early efforts.
BIG EAST
BUTLER...SHADE. It was an odd offseason at Hinkle Fieldhouse, with whispers that something was wrong with HC Brandon Miller, who was not seen much around the basketball facility or on the recruiting circuit. Confirming something was amiss, Miller took a medical leave of absence on October 2, thrusting assistant Chris Holtmann into the interim HC job. While Big East sources say AD Barry Collier will allow Miller to return when able, others believe Holtmann is likely to be the coach moving forward and has this season as an audition to keep the job. So far so good for the Bulldogs, who are running more with Holtmann, allowing 6-6 jr. Kellen Dunham (19 ppg) to do a pretty good Gordon Hayward imitation in the first two weeks of the season. Butler's upset win over North Carolina in the opening round of the Battle 4 Atlantis confirms the early-season ascent.
MARQUETTE...FADE. Longtime Mike Krzyzewski disciple Steve Wojciechowski gets a much-anticipated head coaching assignment, which many believe is a test run to see if "Wojo" is really going to be the man to replace Coach K whenever the latter decides to step down. Wojo, however, does not seem to have inherited a full deck from predecessor Buzz Williams (now at VPI) in Milwaukee after the departure of three double-digit scorers from last season's team that slipped to a modest 17-15 SU record after a Sweet 16 run the previous year. A home loss to Nebraska-Omaha and a labored win over NJIT within the last week suggest the Golden Eagles will not be a serious contender in this year's Big East race, as Marquette sorely lacks interior presence and has been badly beaten on the boards in its early games. Touted BYU transfer G Matt Carlino is also hitting just 32% from the floor in the early going.
BIG 12
TCU...SHADE. The Horned Frogs have been lapped by the rest of the Big 12 the past couple of years, but it looks as if Fort Worth is not going to be an easy stop this season for the many power teams in the conference. Especially since TCU will be playing home games this season in the much-cozier Wilkerson-Greines Activity Center, a 4759-seat facility located about 15 minutes from the Frogs' campus due to renovations at Daniel-Meyer Coliseum. Trent Johnson has not been sitting on his hands just collecting another paycheck at TCU, however, working the network to secure several transfers who have made an immediate impact, including ex-UTEP swingman Chris Washburn (a solid defensive presence on the perimeter) and ex-CMU and Pitt PG Trey Ziegler, who provides depth in the backcourt and relief for vastly underrated PG Kyan Anderson. Also in the mix are juco F Kenrich Williams (scored double-digits twice in first four games) plus now-healthy F Devonta Abron (missed all of 2013-14 with Achilles tendon injury). Moreover, injury-plagued 6-9 Amric Fields, who scored 13 ppg a year ago though missing about half of the term due to knee problems, is expected back soon. If Frogs really are improved, there are no soft spots in this year's Big 12.
WEST VIRGINIA...SHADE. Quick rebuild job done by Bob Huggins, whose Mountaineers served notice on the rest of the league that they must be reckoned with once more with an impressive win at last week's Puerto Rico Tip-Off, including mild upset over defending national champ UConn in title game. "Huggy" has surrounded key returnees PG Juwan Staten (18.1 ppg LY) and soph PF Devin Williams (238 rebounds as a frosh) with a collection of impactful newcomers, including Fs Jonathan Holton and Elijah Macon, both ineligible last season, and frosh Gs Jevon Carter and Daxton Miles, Jr., plus juco G Jaysean Paige, now part of lineup rotations. WVU now has lots of size and athleticism, plus depth, which allows Huggins to employ full-court pressure tactics (especially disruptive against George Mason and UConn in Puerto Rico) without worry of wearing out his troops.
BIG TEN
MARYLAND...SHADE. Early warning shot fired by conference newcomer Terps in recent Kansas City Tourney when Mark Turgeon's crew handily took care of regional preference Iowa State at the Sprint Center. Significant development in the early weeks has been immediate positive contribution of true frosh PG Melo Trimble, already scoring 15 ppg and more than adequately replacing Seth Allen, whose offseason transfer to Virginia Tech created questions at the point for Turgeon. But with Trimble scoring and effectively getting the ball to explosive 6-5 swingman Dez Wells (16.2 ppg), Maryland has displayed a very sharp offensive edge in the first few weeks of the season. Wells wrist injury suffered in the ISU win likely keeps him out until Christmas, though he should be back in the lineup before Big Ten play commences. Trimble's service abilities have also helped the team hit on nearly 50% of its field goal attempts thus far. Watch these guys.
RUTGERS...FADE. While Maryland looks as if it can become an immediate factor in the Big Ten, fellow loop newcomer Rutgers might take a lot of lumps this season. The Scarlet Knights are in year two of a patient rebuild under decorated alum, and former NBA player and assistant, Eddie Jordan, whose modified Princeton offense has proven a bit of an awkward fit in Piscataway. The Scarlet Knights aren't even hitting 40% from the floor in the early stages of the season, and the tougher (much tougher) portion of the slate is still to come. Jordan needs another reliable scoring option (or two) to step forward beyond 5-10 G Myles Mack (15.3 ppg) and active 6-9 PF Kadeem Jack (12 ppg). Remember, this team was only 12-21 (and 5-13 in league play) in the American last season.
IVY
YALE...SHADE. It might not be a one-team race in the Ivies after all, as HC James Jones' Yale is suggesting it can chase Harvard for the automatic Big Dance berth. The same five starters are back for the Eli that advanced to the CIT finale last spring, led by vet inside-outside combo of 6-8 F Justin Sears (17 ppg) and lanky 6-4 PG Javier Duren (14.3 ppg). Close opening loss to Metro-Atlantic contender Quinnipiac no embarrassment, and Bulldogs then rattled off four wins in a row, including success at the recent Kent State tournament when beating the capable host Golden Flashes after a comfy win over improved Missouri Valley rep Southern Illinois.
MOUNTAIN WEST
NEW MEXICO...FADE. The Lobos could be in the process of a steep decline, and the next several weeks could be especially difficult in Albuquerque. Newly-coifed Lobo HC Craig Neal (no more long hair!) has a lot more reloading to do than many figured after UNM disappointed in the recent Charleston Tourney, where it lost 2 of 3. After getting consistent scoring production from the high and low posts the past couple of years, the Lobos now have neither after the departures of key frontliners Cam Bairstow and Alex Kirk. And now Craig Neal's star son Cullen (a sharpshooting soph guard who was scoring team-best 17 ppg) is out until further notice with an ankle injury, forcing a lot of scoring burden upon Aussie pass-first sr. PG Hugh Greenwood (only 33% from floor and 24% beyond arc), who has looked very uncomffortable in new scoring role. Until Cullen Neal returns, and papa Craig finds some inside scoring punch, the Lobos look very vulnerable.
PAC-12
STANFORD...SHADE. Some Pac-12 insiders expected Stanford to perhaps take a step back after HC Johnny Dawkins effectively saved his job with a surprise run to the Sweet 16 last term, when graduated frontliners Dwight Powell and Josh Huestis (both DD scorers) were key components. But early efforts suggest Dawkins won't miss Powell and Huestis too much, as ballyhooed 6-8 frosh F Reid Travis (a Top 50 recruit) has hit the ground running in Palo Alto while 6-11 sr. C Stefan Nastic (15 ppg) has more than doubled his previous scoring average. Still in the mix from the Sweet 16 team are key cogs G Chasson Randle (18 ppg) and swingman Anthony Brown (14 ppg). There doesn't appear to be much downgrade on the Farm.
WASHINGTON STATE...FADE. Longtime Oregon HC Ernie Kent returns to the Pac, hired by his former Duck AD, Bill Moos, to resurrect the Coug program that lost momentum under Ken Bone after reaching some unprecedented heights for Tony Bennett a few years earlier. Early indicators suggest the rebuild is going to take a while, as Kent has inherited an incomplete roster with only one true scoring threat, G DeVonte Lacy (19.4 ppg last season), who has been schemed out of the offensive flow by opposing coaches in early action. It's still early, but until another reliable scoring option or two emerges beyond Lacy, and soph PG Que Johnson begins to tap some of his potential, Wazzu is going to be hard-pressed to improve upon its early abysmal shooting numbers (37% from floor and 29% beyond arc).
SEC
TENNESSEE...FADE This one figured as much, as all but one of the starters (and several key reserves) from last year's Sweet 16 Vol side departed, as did HC Cuonzo Martin (to Cal), who knew a couple of lean years might be on the horizon in Knoxville. New HC Donnie Tyndall, most recently at Southern Miss, would then come under the microscope this fall as the NCAA began poking around the program he left behind in Hattiesburg. The Vols had only played twice as we went to press, and not too much shame in a loss to dangerous VCU, but it would appear as if lone returning starter G Josh Richardson (10.3 ppg in 2013-14) is going to have to handle the bulk of the scoring burden until someone else emerges. A re-tooled roster and an undistinguished and baby-faced frontline spell problems in the SEC.
VANDERBILT...SHADE: Such is our respect for HC Kevin Stallings that we would not be surprised to see the Dores make a run at an NCAA bid for the first time in three years. Once a Big Dance regular, Stallings has had to endure unusual personnel issues (especially in the backcourt) the past few years, but appears to have re-stabilized the program behind do-everything 6-10 soph Damian Jones (16 ppg and 8.3 rpg in first four), who appears to be one of the conference's top frontline threats and looks a lot more confident and physically mature after taking some beatings under the boards a year ago. Stallings is also quietly confident that touted frosh Gs Riley LaChance and Wade Baldwin IV (who have both looked good in early action) will provide the needed glue that has been absent from recent Vandy backcourts. The early schedule has not been too demanding, but four wins out of the box suggests that after a brief interlude, the Dores could once again be a factor in the SEC.
By Bruce Marshall
We're only two weeks into the college hoops season, but already some "shade" and "fade" candidates have emerged. These trends can change quickly, but as we hit the end of November, the following sides have caught our eye.
Select teams are presented in conference order.
AMERICAN
SMU....FADE. Larry Brown's Mustangs have had a tough early slate, but they are also not sneaking up on anybody this season, and the current ineligibility of key F Markus Kennedy has depleted the Ponies' frontline. No covers in first four games vs. spread.
TEMPLE...FADE. Still fully respect HC Fran Dunphy, but the Owls had a significant downturn last season, and it might take Dunphy a while to put the pieces back together. Three touted Philly-product transfers have yet to make significant contributions, with Gs Jesse Morgan (UMass) and Devin Coleman (Clemson) yet to gain eligibility and ex-Texas F Jaylen Bond dealing with an ankle injury. Owls shooting only 34.6% from floor through first five games and own just one spread cover (albeit an impressive home win over La Tech), as labored effort vs. supposedly-outmanned Big Five foe Penn on Nov. 25 suggests Temple far from a finished product until further notice.
ATLANTIC 10
RHODE ISLAND...SHADE. Regional sources had suggested to keep an eye on upgrades from Dan Hurley's Rhody, which returned four starters from last year's team that improved six wins (from 8 to 14) a season ago. A nice addition has been touted frosh G Jared Terrell, a punishing 220-pounder (in the mold of Illinois' Rayvonte Rice) already making significant contributions, scoring 12.7 ppg, and Rams have served notice with home win over Big Ten contender Nebraska. Hurley will be looking for improvement beyond the arc (Rhody just 23% triples first three games), but soph G E.C. Matthews (16.3 ppg) has assumed the go-to scoring role of graduated Xavier Munford. Upcoming Nov. 27 battle vs. Kansas will be next indicator if Rams are for real.
GEORGE MASON...FADE. The Patriots picked the wrong year to move from the Colonial to the A-10 last season, as most of the GMU teams over the previous decade (many of those coached by Jim Larranaga) would have fared far better than last year's side that skidded to an 11-20 mark, Mason first non-winning campaign in 14 years. Among the current Patriot concerns are lack of three-point shooting (only 27%), and while juco F Shevon Thompson (12 ppg) is adding some pop on the attack end, what HC Paul Hewitt needs is for Thompson or someone else to begin hitting some 3s, as the GMU halfcourt is poorly-spaced without the ability to connect from longer range. Recent last-place finish in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off is a red flag for Patriots.
ACC
MIAMI-FLA...SHADE. Jim Larranaga had to limp through last season with a depleted offense after all starters had departed following the Sweet 16 run from the previous year. Now it looks as if Larranaga's re-formulated mix has solved some of those issues, as Texas transfer F Sheldon McClellan (16.7 ppg) provides instant offense, while Kansas State transfer G Angel Rodriguez is hitting 49% beyond the arc thru first six games, all Cane wins. Miami impressively romped through the field in last week's Charleston Classic, and the new Canes are getting more familiar with Larranaga's defensive schemes, including his pet "scramble" deployment. Miami looks prepared to get back to the Dance this season.
PITT...FADE. Perhaps the Panthers will eventually round into shape and get Jamie Dixon to his familiar place in the Big Dance come March. But for the moment, the Panthers have an incomplete look, with sr. G Cameron Wright out for a month with foot problems and F Durand Johnson suspended for the season. The Panthers were non-competitive in their Maui Classic semifinal loss vs. San Diego State.
NOTRE DAME...SHADE. Though the Irish lost a close one last week to vastly underrated Providence, it looks like HC Mike Brey has the Domers back on the right track. Especially since key PG Jerian Grant (18.4 ppg and 7.2 apg thru two weeks) is back in good graces after last season's academic-related suspension cost him the second half of the 2013-14 campaign. Brey is also receiving plenty of quality minutes from 6-10 jr. Zach Auguste (16.8 ppg), who has evolved into a capable scoring threat in the post (perhaps even more dangerous than the graduated Garrick Sherman) and is shooting a cool 68% from the floor in the early going.
FLORIDA STATE...FADE. Very slow break from the gate for Leonard Hamilton's Noles, who have dropped three of four straight up and all four of those vs. the number since an opening win over Manhattan. FSU is not stretching opposing defenses because it hasn't been able to consistently shoot the three-ball with any accuracy (FSU just 25% beyond arc). Hamilton is counting heavily upon 6-4 frosh G Xavier Rathan-Mayes to help jump start the offense, though the young Canadian has been erratic in his early efforts.
BIG EAST
BUTLER...SHADE. It was an odd offseason at Hinkle Fieldhouse, with whispers that something was wrong with HC Brandon Miller, who was not seen much around the basketball facility or on the recruiting circuit. Confirming something was amiss, Miller took a medical leave of absence on October 2, thrusting assistant Chris Holtmann into the interim HC job. While Big East sources say AD Barry Collier will allow Miller to return when able, others believe Holtmann is likely to be the coach moving forward and has this season as an audition to keep the job. So far so good for the Bulldogs, who are running more with Holtmann, allowing 6-6 jr. Kellen Dunham (19 ppg) to do a pretty good Gordon Hayward imitation in the first two weeks of the season. Butler's upset win over North Carolina in the opening round of the Battle 4 Atlantis confirms the early-season ascent.
MARQUETTE...FADE. Longtime Mike Krzyzewski disciple Steve Wojciechowski gets a much-anticipated head coaching assignment, which many believe is a test run to see if "Wojo" is really going to be the man to replace Coach K whenever the latter decides to step down. Wojo, however, does not seem to have inherited a full deck from predecessor Buzz Williams (now at VPI) in Milwaukee after the departure of three double-digit scorers from last season's team that slipped to a modest 17-15 SU record after a Sweet 16 run the previous year. A home loss to Nebraska-Omaha and a labored win over NJIT within the last week suggest the Golden Eagles will not be a serious contender in this year's Big East race, as Marquette sorely lacks interior presence and has been badly beaten on the boards in its early games. Touted BYU transfer G Matt Carlino is also hitting just 32% from the floor in the early going.
BIG 12
TCU...SHADE. The Horned Frogs have been lapped by the rest of the Big 12 the past couple of years, but it looks as if Fort Worth is not going to be an easy stop this season for the many power teams in the conference. Especially since TCU will be playing home games this season in the much-cozier Wilkerson-Greines Activity Center, a 4759-seat facility located about 15 minutes from the Frogs' campus due to renovations at Daniel-Meyer Coliseum. Trent Johnson has not been sitting on his hands just collecting another paycheck at TCU, however, working the network to secure several transfers who have made an immediate impact, including ex-UTEP swingman Chris Washburn (a solid defensive presence on the perimeter) and ex-CMU and Pitt PG Trey Ziegler, who provides depth in the backcourt and relief for vastly underrated PG Kyan Anderson. Also in the mix are juco F Kenrich Williams (scored double-digits twice in first four games) plus now-healthy F Devonta Abron (missed all of 2013-14 with Achilles tendon injury). Moreover, injury-plagued 6-9 Amric Fields, who scored 13 ppg a year ago though missing about half of the term due to knee problems, is expected back soon. If Frogs really are improved, there are no soft spots in this year's Big 12.
WEST VIRGINIA...SHADE. Quick rebuild job done by Bob Huggins, whose Mountaineers served notice on the rest of the league that they must be reckoned with once more with an impressive win at last week's Puerto Rico Tip-Off, including mild upset over defending national champ UConn in title game. "Huggy" has surrounded key returnees PG Juwan Staten (18.1 ppg LY) and soph PF Devin Williams (238 rebounds as a frosh) with a collection of impactful newcomers, including Fs Jonathan Holton and Elijah Macon, both ineligible last season, and frosh Gs Jevon Carter and Daxton Miles, Jr., plus juco G Jaysean Paige, now part of lineup rotations. WVU now has lots of size and athleticism, plus depth, which allows Huggins to employ full-court pressure tactics (especially disruptive against George Mason and UConn in Puerto Rico) without worry of wearing out his troops.
BIG TEN
MARYLAND...SHADE. Early warning shot fired by conference newcomer Terps in recent Kansas City Tourney when Mark Turgeon's crew handily took care of regional preference Iowa State at the Sprint Center. Significant development in the early weeks has been immediate positive contribution of true frosh PG Melo Trimble, already scoring 15 ppg and more than adequately replacing Seth Allen, whose offseason transfer to Virginia Tech created questions at the point for Turgeon. But with Trimble scoring and effectively getting the ball to explosive 6-5 swingman Dez Wells (16.2 ppg), Maryland has displayed a very sharp offensive edge in the first few weeks of the season. Wells wrist injury suffered in the ISU win likely keeps him out until Christmas, though he should be back in the lineup before Big Ten play commences. Trimble's service abilities have also helped the team hit on nearly 50% of its field goal attempts thus far. Watch these guys.
RUTGERS...FADE. While Maryland looks as if it can become an immediate factor in the Big Ten, fellow loop newcomer Rutgers might take a lot of lumps this season. The Scarlet Knights are in year two of a patient rebuild under decorated alum, and former NBA player and assistant, Eddie Jordan, whose modified Princeton offense has proven a bit of an awkward fit in Piscataway. The Scarlet Knights aren't even hitting 40% from the floor in the early stages of the season, and the tougher (much tougher) portion of the slate is still to come. Jordan needs another reliable scoring option (or two) to step forward beyond 5-10 G Myles Mack (15.3 ppg) and active 6-9 PF Kadeem Jack (12 ppg). Remember, this team was only 12-21 (and 5-13 in league play) in the American last season.
IVY
YALE...SHADE. It might not be a one-team race in the Ivies after all, as HC James Jones' Yale is suggesting it can chase Harvard for the automatic Big Dance berth. The same five starters are back for the Eli that advanced to the CIT finale last spring, led by vet inside-outside combo of 6-8 F Justin Sears (17 ppg) and lanky 6-4 PG Javier Duren (14.3 ppg). Close opening loss to Metro-Atlantic contender Quinnipiac no embarrassment, and Bulldogs then rattled off four wins in a row, including success at the recent Kent State tournament when beating the capable host Golden Flashes after a comfy win over improved Missouri Valley rep Southern Illinois.
MOUNTAIN WEST
NEW MEXICO...FADE. The Lobos could be in the process of a steep decline, and the next several weeks could be especially difficult in Albuquerque. Newly-coifed Lobo HC Craig Neal (no more long hair!) has a lot more reloading to do than many figured after UNM disappointed in the recent Charleston Tourney, where it lost 2 of 3. After getting consistent scoring production from the high and low posts the past couple of years, the Lobos now have neither after the departures of key frontliners Cam Bairstow and Alex Kirk. And now Craig Neal's star son Cullen (a sharpshooting soph guard who was scoring team-best 17 ppg) is out until further notice with an ankle injury, forcing a lot of scoring burden upon Aussie pass-first sr. PG Hugh Greenwood (only 33% from floor and 24% beyond arc), who has looked very uncomffortable in new scoring role. Until Cullen Neal returns, and papa Craig finds some inside scoring punch, the Lobos look very vulnerable.
PAC-12
STANFORD...SHADE. Some Pac-12 insiders expected Stanford to perhaps take a step back after HC Johnny Dawkins effectively saved his job with a surprise run to the Sweet 16 last term, when graduated frontliners Dwight Powell and Josh Huestis (both DD scorers) were key components. But early efforts suggest Dawkins won't miss Powell and Huestis too much, as ballyhooed 6-8 frosh F Reid Travis (a Top 50 recruit) has hit the ground running in Palo Alto while 6-11 sr. C Stefan Nastic (15 ppg) has more than doubled his previous scoring average. Still in the mix from the Sweet 16 team are key cogs G Chasson Randle (18 ppg) and swingman Anthony Brown (14 ppg). There doesn't appear to be much downgrade on the Farm.
WASHINGTON STATE...FADE. Longtime Oregon HC Ernie Kent returns to the Pac, hired by his former Duck AD, Bill Moos, to resurrect the Coug program that lost momentum under Ken Bone after reaching some unprecedented heights for Tony Bennett a few years earlier. Early indicators suggest the rebuild is going to take a while, as Kent has inherited an incomplete roster with only one true scoring threat, G DeVonte Lacy (19.4 ppg last season), who has been schemed out of the offensive flow by opposing coaches in early action. It's still early, but until another reliable scoring option or two emerges beyond Lacy, and soph PG Que Johnson begins to tap some of his potential, Wazzu is going to be hard-pressed to improve upon its early abysmal shooting numbers (37% from floor and 29% beyond arc).
SEC
TENNESSEE...FADE This one figured as much, as all but one of the starters (and several key reserves) from last year's Sweet 16 Vol side departed, as did HC Cuonzo Martin (to Cal), who knew a couple of lean years might be on the horizon in Knoxville. New HC Donnie Tyndall, most recently at Southern Miss, would then come under the microscope this fall as the NCAA began poking around the program he left behind in Hattiesburg. The Vols had only played twice as we went to press, and not too much shame in a loss to dangerous VCU, but it would appear as if lone returning starter G Josh Richardson (10.3 ppg in 2013-14) is going to have to handle the bulk of the scoring burden until someone else emerges. A re-tooled roster and an undistinguished and baby-faced frontline spell problems in the SEC.
VANDERBILT...SHADE: Such is our respect for HC Kevin Stallings that we would not be surprised to see the Dores make a run at an NCAA bid for the first time in three years. Once a Big Dance regular, Stallings has had to endure unusual personnel issues (especially in the backcourt) the past few years, but appears to have re-stabilized the program behind do-everything 6-10 soph Damian Jones (16 ppg and 8.3 rpg in first four), who appears to be one of the conference's top frontline threats and looks a lot more confident and physically mature after taking some beatings under the boards a year ago. Stallings is also quietly confident that touted frosh Gs Riley LaChance and Wade Baldwin IV (who have both looked good in early action) will provide the needed glue that has been absent from recent Vandy backcourts. The early schedule has not been too demanding, but four wins out of the box suggests that after a brief interlude, the Dores could once again be a factor in the SEC.
