Saturday 12/26/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Golden Hurricane (6-6) at Hokies (6-6)

Date: December 26, 2015 5:45 PM EDT

It took Frank Beamer seven years to get Virginia Tech to a bowl game after taking over a program that had experienced little national success, but once he got the Hokies to the postseason they never looked back.

Now, Beamer returns to the place where his program's magnificent run started - just as his own is coming to an end.

The final game of Beamer's 29 years on the Virginia Tech sidelines comes against Tulsa on Saturday at the Independence Bowl in Shreveport, the same venue where the Hokies began their once-unfathomable string of 23 consecutive bowl appearances in 1993.

To most in the early 1990s, Blacksburg, Virginia, was a nondescript town tucked in the foothills between the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, but over the last few decades it's become known as the home to one of college football's most consistently good teams.

The Hokies (6-6) often were more than that during college football's longest active postseason run, winning four ACC and three Big East titles, finishing in the top 10 of the AP Poll seven times, playing in eight major bowl games and reaching the BCS championship game in 1999.

"I have always said I think I will know when it's time, and I think it's time," Beamer said upon announcing his retirement in November. "There have been some difference of opinions out there, and any time you have a public life, there will be that.

"I do feel like it's the right thing to do, and it's the right thing for Virginia Tech. I think it's the right time for me. It's a tough business. I think it's a younger guy's business, talking about practices and games. Everything is critical. Every loss is critical. After you do that a number of years, I think it wears on you a little bit."

A young man's business indeed, as the coach who will take over in Blacksburg was just 10 years old when Beamer arrived at Virginia Tech. That's Memphis' Justin Fuente, who turned around a decrepit Tigers program by going 19-6 in the past two seasons.

Fuente will keep Beamer's longtime defensive coordinator Bud Foster when he inherits the job, but for now the attention is on Beamer as Virginia Tech returns to the Independence Bowl for the first time since a 45-20 win over Indiana on New Year's Eve 1993.

Keeping that bowl streak alive was no small feat after Virginia Tech's 3-5 start. But the Hokies won three of their final four - all on the road, including a come-from-behind victory at Virginia on Nov. 28 - to earn the chance to send Beamer out a winner.

"It's kind of (a) neat deal really," Beamer said. "I remember how excited and how great a thing it was when we got that first bowl bid to go to the Independence Bowl, and such excitement around the program and our fans. To go back there, what goes around comes around. I'm excited."

Fuente is working out of a temporary office in Lane Stadium and is busy recruiting, but he might be able to offer Beamer some tips about Tulsa (6-6). Memphis won both of its American Athletic Conference games against the Golden Hurricane after Fuente's arrival, including a wild 66-42 victory in October.

Those were the most points Tulsa gave up this season, but that poor defensive performance was hardly an anomaly. The Golden Hurricane ranked 119th out of 127 FBS teams in scoring defense (38.6 points per game) and 125th in total defense (531.5 yards per game).

Like Virginia Tech, Tulsa had to rally on the final day of the regular season to become bowl eligible. It trailed Tulane 34-24 midway through the fourth quarter before a Zack Langer touchdown run and a pair of interception returns for scores ensured the Golden Hurricane would go bowling in coach Philip Montgomery's first season.

"I'm so proud of our football team," Montgomery said. "These guys have worked so, so hard. I'm overwhelmed with the emotions that I have for them and what they've done."

Virginia Tech allowed the second-lowest completion percentage by opposing quarterbacks (47.9) in the nation, and it should have a pretty good idea where most of Dane Evans' passes are going. Keyarris Garrett and Joshua Atkinson combined for 153 receptions and 2,383 receiving yards.

Garrett accounted for 1,451 of those, the second-most in the nation.

"He's just an unbelievable playmaker," Montgomery said. "He is probably one of the most unselfish receivers I've ever been around."

Sophomore Isaiah Ford (63 catches for 937 yards, 10 TDs) is Michael Brewer's top weapon, and the passing game is key considering Virginia Tech is 114th in the nation at 3.6 yards per carry. If ever running back Travon McMillian was going to break out, though, it'd likely come against a Tulsa team that allowed 922 rushing yards over its final three games.

The Golden Hurricane are appearing in their first bowl since 2012, and they've won four of their past six heading into their first meeting with Virginia Tech since 1978.

The Hokies are 10-12 in bowls under Beamer, beating AAC foe Cincinnati 33-17 in last season's Military Bowl.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cornhuskers (5-7) at Bruins (8-4)

Date: December 26, 2015 9:15 PM EDT

The FBS has been saturated with so many bowl games that the eligibility rules had to be altered in order to fill them.

First-year Nebraska coach Mike Riley certainly isn't complaining after his squad suffered a number of close defeats that have the Cornhuskers believing their 5-7 record is a misrepresentation of their season.

They'll get a chance to prove that against a UCLA team that also fell short of expectations in the Foster Farms Bowl on Saturday night at Levi's Stadium.

NCAA rules state that teams must have at least six wins and a .500 record to compete in a bowl, but with a record 80 slots to fill, three 5-7 teams are getting a chance to play in the postseason.

Nebraska was the first to be given the opportunity based on the program's Academic Progress Ratings for 2013-14. The situation is so uncommon that even the university isn't acknowledging the bowl appearance in regard to Riley's contract, which calls for bonus money to be paid to him and his assistants for reaching the postseason.

It wouldn't have been so complicated had the Huskers pulled out some more close games. Five losses were by five points or fewer with none coming by more than 10, and they hung tough with then-No. 3 Iowa in the season finale before falling 28-20 at home.

The Huskers won at least nine games in each of the previous seven seasons under Bo Pelini, who was fired after 2014. Riley left Oregon State to take the Nebraska job.

"We're really glad to be practicing football," Riley said. "We have a great opportunity. All of what we are doing is focused on winning the game. This is one more great opportunity. We've had a couple of them in the past month, and we have one more coming up."

The Huskers do have a quality victory on their resume, beating Michigan State - which now is ranked third and headed to the College Football Playoff - when Tommy Armstrong hit Brandon Reilly on a controversial 30-yard touchdown pass with 17 seconds remaining in a 39-38 win Nov. 7.

Nebraska ranks second in the Big Ten in total offense at 442.5 yards per game and has the nation's eighth-best run defense at 113.4 yards allowed per game.

"I think it's a great opportunity for us to show that we're a better team than what our record says," offensive lineman Ryne Reeves told the team's official website. "For us seniors, it's another opportunity for us to go out on top with a win and it would be a good springboard for the guys going into next year."

This was supposed to be the year UCLA took the next step after back-to-back 10-win seasons with Brett Hundley at quarterback. Josh Rosen took over and was named Pac-12 offensive freshman of the year while throwing for 3,349 yards and 20 touchdowns, but the Bruins finished just 5-4 in the conference and are 8-4 overall.

The Bruins began the year ranked 13th and were expected to contend for the Pac-12 title, even getting some attention as a dark horse for the CFP. Back-to-back losses to Arizona State on Oct. 3 and then-No. 15 Stanford the following week derailed those hopes.

UCLA still had an opportunity to clinch the South Division and appear in the conference title game with a chance to make a major bowl, but it lost 40-21 to rival USC in the regular-season finale.

Instead, the Bruins were relegated to facing sub-.500 Nebraska, which they'll be playing for the third time in four years. UCLA beat the Huskers 36-30 in 2012 at home, then scored 38 unanswered points to win 41-21 the following year in Lincoln.

The advantage this year also appears to go to the Bruins, as Rosen will be going up against a Nebraska defense that ranked 13th in the 14-team Big Ten in passing defense allowing an average of 288.2 yards per game.

And if it ends up coming down to a UCLA field-goal attempt, it can count on Lou Groza Award winner Ka'imi Fairbairn.

"Facing a storied program like Nebraska presents our young men with a tremendous challenge," coach Jim Mora said. "We are looking forward to putting the pads back on, competing hard and making the most of this opportunity."

UCLA and Nebraska have met 12 times since 1946, with each winning six.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Saturday's Early Games Tip Sheet
By Joe Williams

**Connecticut vs. Marshall**

-- The UConn Huskies (6-6 SU, 5-7 ATS) head to the St. Petersburg Bowl to meet the Marshall Thundering Herd (9-3 SU, 7-5 ATS).

-- UConn was 3-5 SU after their loss Oct. 24, and it appeared their postseason hopes were fading fast. However, the Huskies rattled off three wins in their final four games to become bowl eligible, including a surprising 20-17 win over Houston as 7 1/2-point underdogs. The Huskies went 2-4 SU away from home this season, and they failed to cover their past three games away from the state of Connecticut.

-- Huskies QB Bryant Shirreffs (head) missed the season finale due to a head injury, but he is expected to be under center Saturday. He completed 60.3 percent of his pass attempts this season, posting 1,992 yards with nine touchdowns and seven interceptions. His real value to the offense is with his feet, as he ran for 428 yards with three scores. RB Arkeel Newsome can also do it all, running for 756 yards with six rushing touchdowns while averaging 4.4 yards per run. He also racked up 432 receiving yards with two scores. WR Noel Thomas is the go-to player in the receiving game with 719 yards and 13.3 yards per game while finding the end zone three times.

-- Marshall faltered down the stretch a bit, starting out 8-1 before losing two of their final three games, both on the road. Marshall was also 5-2 ATS through their first seven games before limping home with a 2-3 ATS mark over their final five outings.

-- After years of effectiveness from former QB Rakeem Cato, he moved on and it became the Chase Litton show in Huntington this season. He threw for 2,390 yards with a 59.4 completion percentage while tossing 22 touchdowns with just seven interceptions. He isn't much of a threat to run, but the three-pronged attack of running backs certainly is. Leading rusher RB Devon Johnson (back) is nursing a back ailment, and he is questionable to play. He averaged 6.6 yards per game while scoring five times on the ground and once through the air. If he cannot go, Hyleck Foster (85-406-3), Remi Watson (80-398-5), Tony Pittman (64-327-3) and Keion Davis (63-258-2) each showed Marshall's depth. WR Davonte Allen led the way with 696 receiving yards, while WR DeAndre Reaves also chipped in with 13.1 yards per reception while scoring five times. TE Ryan Yurachek is also a receiving threat, particularly in the red zone. He had 39 grabs for 361 yards and a team-high eight scores.

-- We've grown accustomed to seeing Marshall in bowl games. They won the inaugural Boca Raton Bowl last season, topping Northern Illinois 52-23, and they have won four straight bowl games and nine of their past 10 bowl games dating back to 1998. They topped Florida International in this game (then the Beef O'Brady's Bowl) back in 2011 by a 20-10 score, and they have won each of their past two bowl games in the state of Florida.

-- Connecticut will be making its sixth all-time bowl appearance, and first since a 48-20 setback in the 2011 Fiesta Bowl against Oklahoma.

-- Marshall is currently favored by five points at most shops as of Friday morning. As a single-digit favorite this season the Thundering Herd was 5-1 SU/ATS, while UConn went 3-1 SU/ATS as a single-digit underdog during the regular season.

-- The 'under' hit in each of the past five for the Huskies, and finished 10-2 this season. For the Herd, the under was 4-1 in their final five games, and it hit in six of the past eight and eight of the past 11.

-- Marshall has covered four straight bowl games, and they're 12-4 ATS in their past 16 non-conference games. UConn is 5-15-1 ATS in their past 21 non-conference tilts, and just 2-12 ATS in their past 14 games on fieldturf.

-- ESPN will have the telecast at 11:00 a.m. Eastern.

**Miami-Florida vs. Washington State**

-- A pair of 8-4 teams hook up in El Paso for the Hyundai Sun Bowl, and this one could be an entertaining affair.

-- The Miami Hurricanes (8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS) look for the season-high third straight cover. They enter 4-1 SU over their past five games since turning their season around with an improbable series of laterals in the final seconds at Duke back on Halloween. Miami has struggled defensively, and that could be an issue against a high-octane Washington State Cougars (8-4 SU, 9-3 ATS) offense. Miami allowed at least 20 points in each of their past 11 games.

-- Miami's talented QB Brad Kaaya completed 61.7 percent of his passes for 3,019 yards, 15 touchdowns and four interceptions. He isn't a threat to run, but he did find the end zone twice with his legs. RB Joseph Yearby was the workhorse for the Canes, posting 939 rushing yards (4.9 yards per carry) with six scores, while RB Mark Walton chipped in with eight rushing scores. WR Stacy Coley led the receivers with 645 yards while finding the end zone three times, and WR Rashawn Scott managed 620 yards and five touchdowns. WR Herb Waters averaged 16.0 yards per grab, while WR David Njoku had 18.1 yards per game, emerging as a deep threat down the stretch.

-- The Cougars stumbled out of the chute this season with a stunning 24-17 opening game loss to FCS Portland State. However, the Cougs quickly recovered with a road win at Rutgers and a home win against Wyoming before losing at California Oct. 3. That setback against the Golden Bears was actually the first of an 8-0 ATS cover streak which only ended Nov. 27 in the Apple Cup against Washington, a 45-10 loss. The Cougs were not the same with QB Luke Falk (concussion) out for that game, but he is probable for the Sun Bowl.

-- Falk threw for 4,266 yards while completing 70.7 percent of his passes this season, tossing 36 touchdowns while being picked off just eight times. WR Gabe Marks (ankle), the team's leading receiver with 99 catches for 1,125 yards and 14 scores, is probable to play due to his ankle injury. WR Dom Williams also needs just three yards for 1,000-yard season, and he reached double digits with 11 scores. The rushing game isn't much to worry about, but RB Gerard Wicks can be a threat with 599 yards and three scores on the ground.

-- Washington State's bowl history has been up and down lately, going 2-3 SU in their past five postseason appearances. Their last bowl game was memorable, as they lost 48-45 against Colorado State in a wild New Mexico Bowl in 2013. Overall the Cougs are 6-5 in bowl games, and this will be their first postseason meeting against an ACC foe.

-- Miami has a rather impressive 36 bowl games in their program's history, but lately it hasn't been very good. They have dropped five straight bowl games, last winning in the MPC Computers Bowl in 2006 against Nevada. They lost their most recent bowl appearance against a Pac-12 team, falling to Cal in the 2008 Emerald Bowl, and they're 0-3 all-time against Pac-12 schools in bowl games, although Colorado shouldn't really count since that setback occured in the 1967 Bluebonnet Bowl. The Hurricanes will be making their second-ever appearance in the Sun Bowl, and they hope to do better than the 33-17 loss they suffered against Notre Dame Dec. 31, 2010.

-- The Hurricanes are 0-4 ATS in their past four bowl games, and 0-5 ATS in their past five neutral-site battles. The Cougars are 8-1 ATS in their past nine games overall, and 6-0 ATS in their past six against teams with a winning record. The 'under' is 6-1 in Miami's past seven neutral-site games, and 5-1 in their past six bowl games. For Washington State, the under is 4-1 in their past five outings.

-- Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Eastern on CBS.

**Washington vs. Southern Mississippi**

-- Washington and Southern Mississippi, two teams with bright futures, hook up in the Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl. While the Huskies (6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS) barely became bowl eligible until the last game of the regular season, they're installed as an 8 1/2-point favorite over the Golden Eagles (9-4 SU, 10-3 ATS).

-- The Huskies smashed rival Washington State in the Apple Cup, 45-10, as UW took advantage of the fact the Cougars were without their starting signal caller. The 45-10 romp helped Washington win and cover their final two games, averaging 48.5 points per game during their most impressive stretch of the entire season.

-- The Golden Eagles flipped the script from last season, as they were just 3-9 SU with five covers. In 2015 they were a bettors' best friend, covering their first five games out of the chute, and 10 of 12 regular season games before being smacked down at Western Kentucky in the Conference USA Championship Game.

-- Southern Miss will be making its 23rd bowl appearance in school history, and they look to return to their dominant ways during the mid-2000's. The Golden Eagles have dropped two of their past five bowl appearances since 2006. They faced Utah in the 2003 Liberty Bowl, losing 17-0, but they were not in the Pac-12 at the time.

-- Washington has had their issues in the postseason lately, too, winning just once in their past four bowl games, and managing a 4-10 bowl record in 14 games dating back to the 1992 Rose Bowl.

-- The Huskies received great production from freshman RB Myles Gaskin, rolling for 1,121 yards and 10 touchdowns, both school freshman records. He averaged 5.6 yards per carry with a total of 912 rushing yards in his final eight games. Gaskins might be leaned up even more heavily than usual, too, as backup RB Dwayne Washington (leg) is questionable to play due to a leg injury. QB Jake Browning struggled with his effectiveness, completing 62.9 percent of his passes for 2,671 yards, 16 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.

-- QB Nick Mullens had a great season for the Golden Eagles, passing for 4,145 yards with 36 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He isn't a threat to run the ball, but he was able to punch it in for three rushing scores. USM featured two 1,000-yard rushers, as all-everything RB Jalen Richard led the team with 1,098 yards on 14 rushing scores while adding 284 receiving yards and two touchdowns. RB Ito Smith rambled for 1,088 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging a robust 7.0 yards per carry. He was also good for 493 receiving yards with three scores. The Golden Eagles also featured an impressive trio of receivers, with WRs Michael Thomas (62-1,201-12), Casey Martin (74-855-7) and D.J. Thompson (52-743-6) all serving as threats.

-- The 'under' is 20-8 in Washington's past 28 games overall, and 5-2 in their past seven neutral-site games. The under is also 6-2 in their past eight games against teams with a winning record, and 5-1 in their past six non-conference tilts. The 'under' is 7-3 in USM's past 10 games overall.

-- Kickoff is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.

**Indiana vs. Duke**

-- This would be an amazing basketball matchup, but Saturday's game features two football teams with a long history of playing, but a rather short history of postseason appearances when Indiana and Duke meet at Yankee Stadium in the Pinstripe Bowl.

-- Indiana (6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS) started the season with four straight wins, including a road win Sept. 26 at Wake Forest, an ACC opponent. However, the Hoosiers hit the skids in conference, losing their first six Big Ten games before posting wins at Maryland Nov. 21 and at Purdue Nov. 28 to become bowl eligible. The Hoosiers finished the season with covers in each of their final three games, and they posted 41 or more points in each game during the stretch. With the Hoosiers, win or lose, you can expect plenty of offense.

-- For the Hoosiers, QB Nate Sudfeld is a star. He completed 60.7 percent of his passes for 3,184 yards, 24 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He isn't a dual-threat QB, but he did run for five touchdowns, while backup QB Zander Diamont also found the end zone twice with his feet. The real rushing star is RB Jordan Howard, who more than adequately replaced RB Tevin Coleman, now with the Atlanta Falcons. Howard rolled for 1,213 rushing yards and nine scores, while RB Devine Redding posted 785 yards and eight touchdowns. On the receiving end, sophomore WR Simmie Cobbs Jr. led the team with 54 grabs, 914 yards and four touchdowns, while WRs Ricky Jones and Mitchell Paige tied for the team lead with five receiving scores.

-- Duke (7-5 SU, 6-6 ATS) was humming along into late October with thoughts of the ACC Championship Game dancing in their head. However, the Blue Devils were stunned on a controversial last-second, lateral-filled kickoff return for score on Halloween night against Miami, and Duke was never the same. The Blue Devils followed that Miami loss with three more setbacks, including a 66-31 shellacking from rival North Carolina Nov. 7. They were able to cobble together enough offense in a 27-21 win and cover at Wake Forest in the season finale, something both of these squads have in common - a road win at Wake.

-- The Blue Devils offense was led by QB Thomas Sirk, who completed 60.0 percent of his passes for 2,461 yards, 15 touchdowns and just six interceptions, and he also led the team with 143 rushing attempts, 654 yards, 4.6 yards per carry and six rushing scores. Backup QB Parker Boehme threw for a pair of scores while running for 181 yards and five rushing touchdowns. RB Shaq Powell also chipped in with 530 yards and three touchdowns, while RB Jela Duncan found the end zone four times. WR Max McCaffrey served as the team's most valuable receiver, taking over for the departed WR Jamison Crowder, now of the Washington Redskins. McCaffrey posted 601 yards and five scores while freshman WR T.J. Rahming debuted with 522 receiving yards and 13.1 yards per grab.

-- Duke heads to a bowl game for a fourth consecutive season, extending a school record. Previous to the 2012 season the Blue Devils had appeared in just eight bowl games with none in consecutive campaigns. Duke is just 3-8 SU all-time in the postseason, and their bowl victory came in the 1960 Cotton Bowl. While Duke has been involved in three memorable games from the 2012 Belk Bowl, 2013 Chick-Fil-A Bowl against Johnny Manziel and Texas A&M and the 2014 Sun Bowl against Arizona State, they just haven't been able to get over the hump.

-- Like the Blue Devils, Indiana has a spotty and infrequent bowl resume. They haven't appeared in a bowl game since the 2007 season, a 49-33 loss to Oklahoma State in the Insight.com Bowl, and they haven't won a postseason game since the 1991 Copper Bowl, a 24-0 shutout of Baylor. The Hoosiers are 0-2 SU against current ACC schools in bowl games.

-- Indiana is 5-1 ATS in their past six non-conference games, and 6-1 ATS in their past seven outings following a straight-up win. However they're just 2-7 ATS in their past nine games on grass. Duke enters play 15-5-1 ATS in their past 21 non-conference tilts, but just 1-4 ATS in their past five overall and 0-4 ATS in their past four on grass.

-- For IU, the 'over' is 4-0-1 in their past five non-conference tilts, and 3-1-1 in their past five against ACC foes. The over is also 35-15-2 in their past 52 against teams with a winning overall record. While the under is 4-0 in Duke's past four non-conference tilts, the over is 5-1 in their past six outings and 4-1 in their past five on grass.

-- Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Saturday's bowl games betting preview and odds

St. Petersburg Bowl - Connecticutt Huskies vs. Marshall Thundering Herd (-5, 44.5)

Game to be played at Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida

Sitting at 5-5 with games against Houston and Temple remaining, it appeared Connecticut was destined to miss the postseason for the fifth straight year. The Huskies, however, handed the Cougars their only loss of the season to become bowl eligible and face Marshall in the St. Petersburg (Fla.) Bowl on Dec. 26. It is UConn's first postseason appearance since meeting Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl in 2010 while the Thundering Herd are looking for their third bowl victory in as many seasons.

The Huskies, who are 21-39 overall since their showcase in the Fiesta Bowl, shocked the No. 16 Cougars 20-17 in their penultimate regular-season contest. UConn will have Bryant Shirreffs back under center after he suffered a severe concussion in that game. Shirreffs admitted that he lost consciousness after receiving a blow to the helmet. “It was a pretty big hit, it is probably the hardest hit I’ve taken,” the sophomore told reporters

Marshall won the Boca Raton Bowl last season and has beaten just one team, Southern Mississippi, which earned a bowl berth this year. The game, which will be played at Tropicana Field - the baseball home of the Tampa Bay Rays, shapes up to be a low-scoring affair as the Thundering Herd finished the season ranked 14th in scoring defense at 18.4 points per game while the Huskies were 17th at 19.8. Marshall is 9-3 in bowl appearances all-time and has won nine of its last 10 appearances but is unlikely to have star running back Devon Johnson, who missed the final five games of the season with a back injury.

TV: 11 a.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: Marshall opened as 4-point favorites and have been bet up a point to sit a -5. The total has been bet up just slightly from 44 to 44.5.

INJURY REPORT:

Connecticutt - WR B. Lemelle (probable Saturday, lower body), QB B. Shirreffs (probabel Saturday, head), LB M. Walsh (questionable Saturday, knee).

Marshall - RB D. Johnson (questionable Saturday, back), LB R. Huskey (questionable Saturday, suspension), S. Houston (questionable Saturday, suspension).

WEATHER REPORT: Indoors.

ABOUT CONNECTICUT (6-6, 5-7 ATS, 2-10 O/U): UConn's offense is paced by Arkeel Newsome, who ranks 18th in the nation in all-purpose yards (1,621) while Shirreffs threw for 1,992 yards while completing 60.3 percent of his passes, the school's best numbers since Dan Orlovsky in 2004. The Huskies lost five of six games during a dreadful stretch in the middle of their schedule and are 3-2 all time in bowl games. UConn placed five players on the all-conference team led by Jamar Summers, who was tied for third in the nation with seven interceptions and was its only first-team choice.

ABOUT MARSHALL (9-3, 7-5 ATS, 4-8 O/U): Marshall won seven straight games but dropped two of its final three contests to fall into a tie for second place in the C-USA East Division. Freshman Chase Litton took over the starting job at quarterback in the third week of the season, won his first seven starts and finished the season with 2,387 yards passing with 22 touchdowns and seven interceptions. The Herd has a strong special teams unit paced by punter Tyler Williams averaging 44.3 yards and DeAndre Reaves, who had 47 receptions and is a major threat in the return game.

TRENDS:

* Connecticut is 4-0-1 ATS in its last five versus Conference USA opponents.
* Marshall is 4-0 ATS in its last four bowl games.
* Under is 5-0 in Connecticut's last five games overall.
* Under is 4-1 in Marshall's last five games overall.


Hyundai Sun Bowl - Miami Hurricanes vs. Washington State Cougars (-3, 62)

Game to be played at Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, Texas

Miami (Fla.) goes after its first postseason victory since 2006 when it takes on Washington State in the Hyundai Sun Bowl on Dec. 26 at El Paso, Texas. The Hurricanes won four of five games after coach Al Golden was fired and Larry Scott, who took over in an interim basis, will try to end the school’s five-game losing streak in bowl games since beating Nevada 21-20 in the 2006 MPC Computers Bowl at Boise, ID. The Cougars built their best record (8-4) since 2003, when they went 10-3 with a Holiday Bowl victory, and have played only one postseason game since (2013 New Mexico Bowl).

Two efficient, productive 6-4 sophomore quarterbacks face off when Miami’s Brad Kaaya meets Luke Falk of the Cougars. Kaaya, who missed 1 1/2 games with a concussion in midseason, has thrown for at least 3,000 yards in two straight years while connecting for 41 touchdowns with 16 interceptions (12 as a freshman). Falk returned to practice after missing the regular-season finale against Washington with a concussion and has completed 70.7 percent of his passes with 36 TDs and 4,266 yards this season but isn’t expected to have top receiver Gabe Marks (ankle).

The teams are tied for 83rd in the nation in scoring defense (28.8), and a big play on that side of the ball could turn the tide in a game that features two high-powered offenses. Washington State leads the nation in red-zone conversions for TDs at 94.3 percent but is near the bottom in sacks allowed (39). The Hurricanes have 15 interceptions, led by six from Artie Burns, and 24 sacks while ranking seventh in the country in turnover margin (plus-13).

TV: 2 p.m. ET, CBS.

LINE HISTORY: Washington State has held steady at the opening number of -3. The total also hasn't moved off its opening number of 62.

INJURY REPORT:

Miami - OL D. Isidora (questionable Saturday, undisclosed), OL S. Odogwu (questionable Saturday, knee), S J. Carter (out Saturday, suspension), DL C. Jenkins (out Saturday, academics).

Washington State - QB L. Falk (probable Saturday, concussion), OL J. Dahl (probable Saturday, foot), WR G. Marks (probable Saturday, ankle).

WEATHER REPORT: It could be a messy day in El Paso, with a 65 percent chance of rain and a strong 10-12 mile per hour wind gusting towards the northern end zone. Temperatures will be in the high 40's.

ABOUT MIAMI (8-4, 7-5 ATS, 6-6 O/U): Kaaya was hampered by an inconsistent rushing attack that ranks 116th in the nation but still threw for 3,019 yards with 15 touchdowns and gives 2016 coach Mark Richt a dependable quarterback around whom to build. Wide receivers Stacy Coley, Rashawn Scott and Herb Waters each have at least 38 receptions and 600 yards as Kaaya has completed 61.7 percent of his throws. Joseph Yearby needs 61 rushing yards to reach 1,000 and the Hurricanes boast one of the top kickers in the nation in Michael Badgley, who has made 24-of-27 attempts inside 50 yards.

ABOUT WASHINGTON STATE (8-4, 9-3 ATS, 5-7 O/U): Falk, who was named to the All-Pac 12 first team, leads an offense that has nine players with at least 200 receiving yards. Marks, who was injured in the 45-10 loss to Washington on Nov. 27th, is fourth in the nation in receptions (99), tied for fourth in receiving TDs (14) and 19th in receiving yards (1,125), while Dom Williams has made 73 catches and is three yards shy of 1,000. Defensive lineman Hercules Mata’afa (six sacks) was named a freshman All-American by USA Today and sophomore linebacker Peyton Pelluer leads the team with 98 tackles.

TRENDS:

* Miami is 0-4 ATS in their last four bowl games.
* Washington State is 6-0 ATS in their last six games versus a team with a winning record.
* Under is 6-1 in Miami's last seven neutral site games.
* Under is 4-1 in Washington State's last five games overall.


Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl - Washington Huskies vs. Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles (+8.5, 55)

Game to be played at Cotton Bowl Stadium, Dallas, Texas

Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl is the location for the first postseason game between Pac-12 and Conference USA teams when Washington meets Southern Miss on Dec. 26 at the historic Cotton Bowl. The Huskies needed wins over Oregon State and Washington State in the season’s final two weeks to become bowl eligible and play in the postseason for a sixth straight season. Led by third-year head coach Todd Monken and quarterback Nick Mullens, the Golden Eagles were the most improved program in FBS this season (six more wins than last season) and qualified for their first bowl since 2011.

The Southern Miss offense has gone from scoring 19 points per game in 2014 to 40.6 points this season, scoring 50 or more a school-record five times. The Golden Eagles have broken single-season school records for completions (312), passing yards (4,263), total offensive yards (6,758), touchdowns (67), and points (528). Mullens, the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, has completed 63.4 percent of his 483 passes for 4,145 yards and 36 TDs against 12 interceptions.

The Golden Eagles’ talented offense will be going up against the best defense in the Pac-12. Washington led the conference and was among the top 30 in FBS in points allowed per game (17.8), yards against (349.9) and red zone defense (77.8 percent). Cornerback Sidney Jones and safety Budda Baker earned spots on the All-Pac-12 first team, Azeem Victor led the team with 88 tackles while fellow linebackers Cory Littleton and Travis Feeney combined for 13 sacks.

TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: Washington opened as 8.5-point favorites and have to move off that nunmber. The total has been bet down slightly, going from 55.5 to 55.

INJURY REPORT:

Washington - RB D. Washington (questionable Saturday, leg).

Southern Mississippi - LB A. Swain (questionable Saturday, undisclosed).

WEATHER REPORT: There is plenty of inclement weather in the forecast for this matchup. Thunderstorms are expected in the area with a 73 percent chance of rain. There will also be a strong 15-17 mile per hour wind gusting across the field from south to north.

ABOUT WASHINGTON (6-6, 7-5 ATS, 4-8 O/U): Running back Myles Gaskin, who set school freshman records with 1,121 yards and 10 touchdowns, will be the focal point of the offense. He ran for 265 yards as the Huskies outscored the Beavers and Cougars by a combined 80 points to close out the season. In his final eight games, Gaskins ran for 912 yards (5.6 per carry), but quarterback Jake Browning (62.9 percent completion, 2,671 yards, 16 TDs, 10 Interceptions) had an inconsistent season, throwing four scoring passes each in wins over Arizona and Oregon State but multiple interceptions in losses to California and Arizona State.

ABOUT SOUTHERN MISS (9-4, 10-3 ATS, 5-8 O/U): Mullens posted an historic season but he was shut down in the Conference USA championship game, throwing for only 181 yards with three interceptions in the 45-28 loss to Western Kentucky. Casey Martin is his favorite target with 74 catches for 855 yards and seven TDs, but Michael Thomas is the deep threat, grabbing 62 balls for 1,201 yards and 12 scores. The Golden Eagles’ run game is also potent, as senior Jalen Richard (1,098 yards rushing, 14 TDs, 5.9 yards per carry) and sophomore Ito Smith (1,088 yards rushing, eight TDs, seven yards per carry) combined for more than 2,900 yards from scrimmage and 27 scores.

TRENDS:

* Washington is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games in December.
* Southern Mississippi is 6-0 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games.
* Under is 5-1 in Washington's last 6 non-conference games.
* Under is 7-3 in Southern Mississippi's last 10 games overall.


New Era Pinstripe Bowl - Indiana Hoosiers vs. Duke Blue Devils (+3, 71.5)

Game to be played at Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York

Indiana and Duke, two schools known more for their prowess on the basketball court, meet on the gridiron for the first time since 1984 - this time in a baseball stadium - as they invade Yankee Stadium for the Pinstripe Bowl on Dec. 26. Indiana is in a bowl game for the first time since 2007 and plays in just its second since 1993. The Blue Devils are making their fourth bowl appearance in a row but are in search of their first postseason win since the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 2, 1961.

Both teams boast quality quarterbacks, with Hoosiers senior Nate Sudfeld leading the Big Ten in passing yards (3,184), touchdowns (24) and pass efficiency (153.9). His play in back-to-back road wins to end the regular season lifted Indiana into the bowl picture, as he threw for 735 yards and eight touchdowns with no interceptions against Maryland and Purdue. Duke signal caller Thomas Sirk is not quite on that level as a passer, but he did rank third in the ACC in pass completions and can hurt opponents with his legs, compiling a team-high 648 yards and six touchdowns on the ground.

The Hoosiers and Blue Devils both had strong starts before gut-punch losses altered their seasons and may have prevented them from attaining a more notable bowl berth. Indiana was 4-2 and up 25 points at home against a bad Rutgers team, but it collapsed in a 55-52 loss that was the lowlight during a six-game losing streak. Duke was 6-1 and on top of the ACC Coastal division before visiting Miami utilized eight laterals in a wild kickoff return for a touchdown that sent the Blue Devils to a damaging 30-27 defeat that started a four-game losing streak.

TV: 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC.

LINE HISTORY: Indiana opened as 2-point favorites and have been bet up to -3. It's the total that has seen plenty of action. Since opening at 67, that number has climbed all the way to 71.5.

INJURY REPORT:

Indiana - WR I. James (questionable Saturday, shoulder), QB Z. Diamont (questionable Saturday, undisclosed), RB J. Howard (questionable Saturday, knee), S C. Dutra (out Saturday, ankle), S J. Cook Jr. (out Saturday, foot).

Duke - S J. Cash (out Saturday, wrist).

WEATHER REPORT: There will be a 55 percent chance of rain in New York, with a 6-8 mile per hour wind gusting from east to west. Temperatures will be in the high 40's during the game.

ABOUT INDIANA (6-6, 7-5 ATS, 9-2-1 O/U): The long layoff before the bowl game allows running back Jordan Howard's knee to heal up, and head coach Kevin Wilson said there is a chance the junior plays, which could transform Indiana's attack. Howard produced 1,213 yards in only nine games but missed the finale against Purdue and later had his knee scoped. He averaged 168.8 yards a game during the Hoosiers' 4-0 start and 206 in narrow losses to Iowa and Michigan down the stretch.

ABOUT DUKE (7-5, 6-6 ATS, 5-7 O/U): Behind Sirk and a balanced attack that features five receivers with at least 30 catches and four rushers with more than 300 yards, the Blue Devils should move the ball against an Indiana squad that ranked last in the Big Ten in total defense. Duke will want to shore up its defensive unit, though, after it was lit up for an average of 42.3 points during the four-game losing streak. Senior safety Jeremy Cash, who had 101 tackles - 18 for a loss - and 2.5 sacks, shined through it all to claim ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors.

TRENDS:

* Indiana is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games.
* Duke is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
* Over is 4-0-1 in Indiana's last 5 non-conference games.
* Over is 5-1 in Duke's last 6 games overall.


Camping World Independence Bowl - Tulsa Golden Hurricane vs. Virginia Tech Hokies (-14, 61.5)

Game to be played at Independence Stadium, Shreveport, Louisiana

The storied career of coach Frank Beamer will come to an end when he leads Virginia Tech to its 22nd straight bowl appearance. Beamer, who made his first bowl appearance with the Hokies in the 1993 Independence Bowl, will guide them one last time when they face Tulsa in this year’s edition in Shreveport, LA. on Dec. 26. The legendary coach announced his impending retirement earlier in the season and will move on to a different position in the athletic department at the end of the campaign.

“I want to finish this thing in a good way, but we’ve got to go play well,” Beamer told reporters. “Tulsa can throw the football. Any time you can throw the football the way they do, you’re always dangerous. We’ve got to get ready for that.” The Golden Hurricane became bowl eligible by showing off that passing offense in a 45-34 win at Tulane in the regular-season finale. Dane Evans threw for 367 yards and three touchdowns in that triumph as Tulsa overcame a 10-point, fourth-quarter deficit to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2012.

The Golden Hurricane were set to deal with upheaval on the coaching staff as well, but offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert reportedly turned down a three-year contract to take the same position at Texas. Gilbert oversaw a unit that averaged 27.9 points and ranked 11th in FBS with an average of 329.8 passing yards. The Hokies ranked ninth nationally in passing defense, limiting opponents to an average of 173.8 yards.


TV: 5:45 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: Virginia Tech opened as 13.5-point favorites and are now favored by two converted touchdowns. The total has stayed put at the opening number of 61.5.

INJURY REPORT:

Tulsa - N/A.

Virginia Tech - N/A.

WEATHER REPORT: There is a 50 percent chance of rain, with a chance of thunderstorms in the area. There will also be a 9-12 mile per hour wind gusting towards the northern end zone. Temperatures will be in the mid 70's for the game.

ABOUT TULSA (6-6, 6-5-1 ATS, 7-5 O/U): The Independence Bowl will mark the career finales for senior running back Zach Langer and wide receiver Keyarris Garrett, who combined for 24 touchdowns in the regular season. Garrett is second in FBS with 1,451 receiving yards and torched Tulane for 216 on 10 catches in the regular-season finale. The two seniors make things easier for junior quarterback Evans, who needs 42 passing yards to reach 4,000 on the season.

ABOUT VIRGINIA TECH (6-6, 6-6 ATS, 5-7 O/U): Beamer made his reputation by being dominant on special teams, and kicker Joey Slye is ready to send his coach out on a winning note. “It’s another bowl game, and coach Beamer is taking it like another bowl game,” Slye told reporters. “That’s kind of trickling down to the rest of the players. We’ve got business to do, we’ve got business to handle, so let’s go out and handle business.” Beamer is set to be replaced by former Memphis coach Justin Fuente, whose team ripped Tulsa 66-42 in the regular season.

TRENDS:

* Tulsa is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 bowl games.
* Virginia Tech is 2-5-1 ATS in its last eight neutral site games.
* Under is 6-0 in Tulsa's last 6 neutral site games.
* Over is 6-0 in Hokies last 6 non-conference games.


Fosters Farms Bowl - UCLA Bruins vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers (+6.5, 61)

Game to be played at Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California

UCLA’s bid to go to the Rose Bowl fell apart late while Nebraska thought it had played its way out of bowl berth entirely, at least until the NCAA stepped in. The Bruins settled for a spot in the Foster Farms Bowl at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Dec. 26 after coming up one game short of playing in the Pac-12 title game. The Cornhuskers are one of three five-win programs that benefited from the NCAA’s decision to use Academic Progress Rate as the main tiebreaking mechanism to help it reach the 80 teams needed to fill out 40 bowl games.

Nebraska is assured of finishing with a losing record for the third time since 1962, but its seven losses have come by a total of 31 points under first-year coach Mike Riley. The Cornhuskers became only the second FBS program since 2006 to lose four times on the final play of regulation or in overtime. The results started to get better as some key players began to get healthy near the end of the season, highlighted by Nebraska’s 39-38 comeback win over Big Ten champion Michigan State on Nov. 7.

UCLA, which has won 11 consecutive non-conference contests - which includes a home win over Nebraska in 2013 to complete a two-game series sweep – controlled its own destiny in the Pac-12 South entering the final weekend of the regular season before falling to eventual champion USC. The Bruins are 0-2 at this event, losing to Florida State in the 2006 Emerald Bowl and Illinois in the 2011 Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl – both of which were played in San Francisco. Coach Jim Mora can notch his 38th career victory with UCLA in this contest, however, and break his tie with Terry Donahue for the most wins over his first four seasons at the school.

TV: 9:15 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: UCLA opened favored by a converted touchdown, but were quickly moved to -6.5, where they currently sit. The total hasn't moved off the opening number of 61.

INJURY REPORT:

UCLA - OL K. Lacy (probable Saturday, ankle), OL C. McDermott (questionable Saturday, knee), RB S. Manfro (questionable Saturday, shoulder).

Nebraska - LB M. Newby (probable Saturday, shoulder), WR A. Moore (questionable Saturday, shoulder), DL M. Stoltenberg (out Saturday, knee).

WEATHER REPORT: It should be a perfect night for football in Santa Clara, with clear skies, just a slight breeze and temperatures in the low 40's for the game.

ABOUT UCLA (8-4, 5-6-1 ATS, 3-8-1 O/U): The Bruins witnessed a number of record-setting performances this season as kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn became the conference’s all-time leading scorer and receiver Jordan Payton become the school’s all-time receptions leader. Quarterback Josh Rosen threw two interceptions against the Trojans to stop his streak of not throwing one at 245 attempts, one of several school records he broke en route to earning Pac-12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors. Paul Perkins ranks third in the conference in rushing (1,275 yards) while first-team All-Pac 12 junior defensive tackle Kenny Clark is the leader of a defense that is tied for first in the conference in fewest yards allowed per play (4.9).

ABOUT NEBRASKA (5-7, 6-6 ATS, 7-5 O/U): Tommy Armstrong Jr. operates the Big Ten’s second-ranked total offense and is the only Cornhusker to record two seasons with at least 3,000 total yards, but threw nine of his 16 interceptions over the final three contests. Jordan Westerkamp tied Nate Swift for the most single-season receptions in school history (63) in Nebraska’s 28-20 loss to Iowa in the regular-season finale while tight end Cethan Carter began to emerge as a valuable big-play threat for Armstrong as the regular season drew to a close. Although defensive tackles Vincent Valentine and Maliek Collins combined to miss seven games in 2015, Nebraska still ranks eighth in the country in run defense (113.4 yards per game).

TRENDS:

* UCLA is 6-1 ATS in its last seven games following a ATS loss.
* Nebraska is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 non-conference games.
* Under is 3-0-1 in UCLA's last four games overall.
* Over is 6-1 in Nebraska's last seven non-conference games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAF

St Petersburg Bowl, Dec 26
Marshall lost two of last three games, is 1-3 vs bowl teams; they won last four bowl games, allowing 17.5 ppg (2-0 as fave)- they won this bowl back in 2011. Thundering Herd starts a freshman QB. UConn is in its first bowl in five years; Huskies are 1-5 vs bowl teams this year- they scored total of only 30 points in last three games. Faves are 3-2 vs spread in this bowl last five years, with an average total of 54.4. C-USA non-conference favorites are 4-4 this year; AAC underdogs 13-10.

Sun Bowl, El Paso
Over last six years, Pac-12 teams are 7-1 vs ACC teams in bowls, with one win in 2012 Sun Bowl. Miami is 0-5 in bowl games last seven years, scoring 15.6 ppg; Hurricanes won four of last five games after 58-0 loss to Clemson- they are 4-1 in games decided by 6 or less points. Mike Leach is back in west Texas with Washington State team that went 8-3 in last 11 games after losing opener to I-AA team. Wazzu is 3-1 as favorite this year; they lost 48-45 to Colorado State in bowl game two years ago, their only bowl since '03.

Heart of Dallas Bowl
Southern Mississippi was 4-32 last three years; now they're 9-4, winning six in row before losing C-USA title game 45-28 at WKU. Golden Eagles are in first bowl since '11- underdogs covered four of their last five bowls. Pac-12 teams are 12-6 in bowls last two years; Washington lost three of its last four bowls, giving up 35.5 ppg. Huskies won last two games, scoring 97 points to become bowl eligible; they're 1-6 scoring less than 31 points. Favorites won/covered this bowl last four years, with average total of 54.8.

Pinstripe Bowl, Bronx
Duke lost four of last five games, allowing 38 ppg after a 6-1 start; they threw three guys off team, lost All-American safety to injury. Since '89, Blue Devils are 0-5 in bowl games, allowing 43.8 ppg. Last six years, Big 14 teams are 5-2 in bowls vs ACC teams. Indiana is in first bowl since '07; their last bowl was 1991 Copper Bowl. Hoosiers lost six games in row during season, losing by 8 or less points to Iowa-Michigan-Ohio State; they also blew 52-26 lead in loss to Rutgers. Underdog covered all four (3-1SU) Pinstripe Bowls.

Independence Bowl, Shreveport
This is Frank Beamer's last game at Virginia Tech; Hokies are 2-3 in last five bowls- two of five went to OT. Tech won three of last four games to get bowl eligible; their last two wins were by total of five points- they're 3-4 as favorite, three of their five I-A wins are by 15+ points. Tulsa was 5-19 last two years, is 4-3 vs spread as an underdog this year; they are in first bowl since '12- they're 4-1 in last five bowls, scoring 44.4 ppg/ Favorites are 3-2 vs spread in this bowl last five years; average total in last four, 57.5.

Foster Farms Bowl, Santa Clara
5-7 Nebraska is here because not enough teams won six games; Cornhuskers lost four of last five bowls, losing twice to Pac-12 squads. Nebraska is 3-5 vs bowl teams this year; they're 1-5 in games decided by 5 or less points. Mora is 2-1 in bowls, scoring 42-40 in last two; Bruins lost this bowl 20-14 to Illinois in '11; unsure how excited they are with this trip up north. UCLA OC Mazzone was hospitalized LW with blood clot in his lung. Pac-12/Big 14 split last eight bowl meetings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Bowl Tech Trends - Week 2
By Bruce Marshall

Saturday, December 26

Matchup Skinny Edge

UCONN vs. MARSHALL (St. Petersburg Bowl)
UConn just 2-4 vs. line away from home TY and 3-8 vs. spread away from Rentsch since Diaco arrived in 2014. Diaco 4-4 as dog TY after 2-7 mark in role in LY’s rough debut. First bowl in five years for Huskies. Herd has won and covered last four bowls since 2009 and is 9-3 its last 12 as chalk away from home.

Marshall, based on team trends.


MIAMI-FLA. At WASHINGTON STATE (Sun Bowl)
Wazzu had covered eight in a row prior to season-ending loss in Apple Cup vs. Huskies in a game minus Luke Falk. Leach 13-7 vs. spread last 20 away from Pullman Canes have lost their last five bowls SU, 1-6 vs. spread last seven bowls. Miami 3-2 as dog in 2015 but was 1-6 in role previous two years.

WSU, based on team trends.


SOUTHERN MISS at WASHINGTON (Dallas Bowl)
USM has covered 10 of first 12 this season prior to CUSA title loss at WKU and was 4-2 as dog in 2015. Also 4-0 vs. spread in non-league games. Petersen 4-3 vs. spread vs. non-Pac 12 since arriving last season in Seattle and is 10-6 vs. line last 16 overall with Huskies.

USM, based on recent trends.


INDIANA vs. DUKE (Yankee Pinstripe Bowl)
IU first bowl since 2007. Hoosiers around .500 in most spread categories past few years, though they have covered 4 of last 6 away from home. Cutcliffe winless SU last three years in bowls but has covered last two. Duke no bowl wins SU since the 1954 team beat Nebraska 34-7 in the Orange Bowl. Blue Devils lost and failed to cover four straight down stretch before finale win over Wake Forest. Cutcliffe had been 24-9-1 vs. line in the 34 games prior to late slump.

Slight to Duke, based on extended trends.


TULSA vs. VIRGINIA TECH (Independence Bowl)
Tulsa covered all six games on road this season, and is 9-1 vs. number last 10 away from home. Golden Hurricane also 4-1 SU and vs. line last four bowls (though this is first since 2012 Liberty). Beamer just 7-9-1 vs. line last 17 bowls. Beamer also just 4-9 last 13 as chalk away from home.

Tulsa, based on team trends.


NEBRASKA vs. UCLA (Foster Farms Bowl)
These teams met in 2012-13 with UCLA winning and covering each. Mora has won and covered last two bowls while Huskers have covered last two bowls after dropping previous three SU and vs. number. Mike Riley 5-3 vs. line in bowls with OSU. Riley 3-1 as dog this season and 29-18 as dog since 20008, which includes 1-5 mark LY in role at Oregon State.

Slight to Nebraska, based on team trends.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Streaks, Tips, Notes

Independence Bowl Dec. 26, 5:45 EST

The Tulsa Golden Hurricane and Virginia Tech Hokies hook up in the Independence Bowl the day after Christmas. Both Tulsa (6-6, 6-5-1 ATS) and Viginia Tech (6-6 SU/ATS) had to rally on the final day of the regular season to become bowl eligible. The Golden Hurricane's are appearing in their first bowl since 2012 when they defeated Iowa State 31-17 as -2.5 point favorite making it 5-2 SU/ATS the past seven bowl games. The Hokies defeating Cincinnati 33-17 in last season's Military Bowl enter 8-9 (7-9-1 ATS) last seventeen bowl games.

Hokies, who would love nothing beter than to hand coach Frank Beamer a victory in his 23rd consecutive bowl appearances with Viginia Tech. The added incentive has oddsmakers giving Virginia Tech the nod (-14.5). Hokies should give Beamer his well deserved win against Tulsa's weak and porous defense allowing 38.6 points/game on 292.9 passing, 238.6 rushing yards/game. However, covering the massive number will be a challenge, Hokies were double digit chalk twice this season going 1-1 ATS and are just 4-15-1 last twenty laying ten or more points.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Injury Report
By The Sports Xchange

WASHINGTON REDSKINS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (Saturday night)
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
--Out: LB Perry Riley (foot)
--Questionable: S Dashon Goldson (rib, knee, shoulder), WR Ryan Grant (abdomen), RB Matt Jones (hip), C Josh LeRibeus (ankle), T Morgan Moses (ankle)
--Probable: LB Will Compton (neck), DE Kedric Golston (calf), DE Jason Hatcher (neck, knee), WR DeSean Jackson (foot, knee), S Jeron Johnson (hamstring), DE Frank Kearse (finger), LB Ryan Kerrigan (toe), TE Jordan Reed (shoulder), LB Keenan Robinson (shoulder), RB Chris Thompson (shoulder)
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
--Questionable: WR Seyi Ajirotutu (ankle), DT Bennie Logan (calf), CB Byron Maxwell (shoulder)
--Probable: QB Sam Bradford (left shoulder), CB Eric Rowe (concussion)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Expert Picks Against the Spread: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles Odds
by Alan Matthews

I'm liking these Saturday NFL games! Last week I previewed the NY Jets at Dallas and recommended giving the 2.5 points to the Cowboys and going under the total of 42. The Jets won 19-16 to officially eliminate Dallas from the postseason and give me a profitable sweep.

So we stick with the lone Saturday game this week and it's another important one in the NFC East as Washington visits Philadelphia. It's now crystal clear that the East winner is going to be the No. 4 seed in the playoffs. And I expect that champion to get housed at home in the wild-card round by raging Seattle, which should be the No. 5 seed. If the Vikings were to grab the No. 5, then the East champion can win that game. But that's a story for another day.

So here are the scenarios for winning the NFC East.

Washington (7-7) can make Week 17 anticlimactic with a victory here as that clinches the division. The Skins haven't won the East since Robert Griffin III's amazing rookie season, which now seems like ages ago (especially to RGIII). Philadelphia (6-8) wins the East with a victory here and then next week at the New York Giants. And the G-Men (6-8) win the division with a victory Sunday in Minnesota (not super confident that happens) and then next week over Philadelphia while also having Washington lose twice.

There is one scenario where Philly wins the division with a victory here and loss next week. The Eagles would need Washington to lose Week 17 in Dallas and the Giants to lose Sunday in Minnesota. That would make all three teams 7-9 after next week and the Eagles would beat the Redskins on better division record (3-3 vs. 2-4) and beat the Giants by having the best record against common opponents (7-7 vs. 6-8). Washington can still win the division with a loss here, win next week in Dallas, a Giants loss Sunday and then New York win over Philadelphia.

That all clear? I hope so because I doubt I can repeat it. Sportsbooks have the Redskins at -140 favorites for the East, the Eagles at +160 and Giants at +700.

Redskins at Eagles Betting Story Lines

Washington completed its home regular-season slate at 6-2 with a 35-25 win over Buffalo last week. And that game followed what has been a major trend all season: quarterback Kirk Cousins was excellent in his own stadium. He completed 22-for-28 for 319 yards and four scores without a turnover, a near-perfect 153.7 rating. DeSean Jackson caught six for 153 and a TD.

It's almost amazing how different Cousins is at home compared to the road, where Washington is 1-5. Cousins has a passer rating of 117.0 at home, which is second in the NFL. He is completing 74.7 percent of his throws there with 16 touchdowns and only two picks. On the road, his rating is 74.6, which is 30th in the league. He has completed 64 percent with six touchdowns and nine picks. You see this with dome guys a lot when they play outdoors, but the Redskins obviously don't play in a dome.

The schedule has been a factor. Washington's six road opponents so far have a .630 winning percentage and they include the Patriots and Panthers. Only two road teams the Skins have played currently have losing records. Four of the road foes have Top-10 pass defenses. At home, Washington's opponents are a combined 19 games under .500 right now. Three home foes have bottom-10 pass defenses.

Might this be the final home game for Chip Kelly as Eagles' coach? He's not going to be fired, but ownership might demand he give up personnel power if the team misses the playoffs again. Kelly might say no and request to be released from his contract or traded (to Tennessee?). I can't figure the Eagles out. Thought they had a pretty good shot of beating the visiting Cardinals in Week 15 but Philly was clobbered 40-17. Defensive coordinator Bill Davis is under fire again after his unit allowed 28 first downs and nearly 500 yards. The Eagles also turned it over four times. It was Sam Bradford's fifth game with at least two picks this year. Philly is 2-3 in those five.

Two key Eagles defenders were hurt last week and might miss this one: nose tackle Bennie Logan and cornerback Byron Maxwell. Two starting Redskins offensive linemen suffered minor injuries last week but should play.

In Week 4, the Eagles went to Washington as 3-point favorites and lost 23-20. Cousins threw the game-winning 4-yard TD pass to Pierre Garcon -- capping a 90-yard drive -- with 26 seconds left. He threw for 290 yards on the day and wasn't picked off. Bradford threw for 270 and three scores (all in second half) without an interception. Philly did lose two fumbles and kicker Caleb Sturgis missed an extra point and 33-yard field-goal try. So do the math there and see how important those misses were.

Redskins at Eagles Betting Odds and Trends

At 5Dimes, Philadelphia is a 3-point favorite (-115) with a total of 47.5. On the moneyline, the Eagles are -165 and Redskins +145. On the alternate lines, Philly is -2.5 (-140) and -3.5 (+110). Washington is 7-7 against the spread (2-4 on road) and 7-7 "over/under" (4-2 on road). Philadelphia is 6-8 ATS (3-4 at home) and 6-8 O/U (3-4 at home).

Washington is 4-12 ATS in its past 16 after a win. The Redskins are 2-8 ATS in their past 10 following an ATS win. The Eagles are 1-4 ATS in their past five vs. the NFC. They are 0-8 ATS in their past eight following a double-digit loss at home. The over is 5-1 in Philly's past six after a double-digit home loss. The over is 9-2 in Washington's past 11 following an ATS win. The Redskins are 5-2 ATS in the past seven meetings.

Redskins at Eagles Betting Prediction

From purely a fan perspective, I am rooting for the Eagles here as that makes Week 17 all the more interesting. And that's how it should be. But I have no clue which team shows up. That said, the Eagles haven't lost back-to-back games Bradford has started since Weeks 1-2. So I'll give the 2.5 points here. Go under the total as it looks to be rainy/foggy

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey

We come out of the Christmas break and have some really good racing action on tap on Saturday including the return of Runhappy as the chalk in the $300,000 Malibu (G1) on the opening day card at Santa Anita.

Runhappy makes his first start since winning the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) for trainer Maria Borell, who was fired the following morning by owner James McIngvale. The story went viral and Borell is suing ‘Mattress Mac” for commissions she never received.

The colt is the 6-5 morning line favorite with Laura Wohlers named the trainer. Wohlers is McIngvale’s sister-in-law and trained the colt in his first two career starts.

The karma of this entire drama can’t bode well for Runhappy and I think the Racing Gods will step in and the colt could get upset. He is 6-5 on the morning line but more likely to go off at 2-5. I’ll take a stab with Watershed, a lightly raced Kiaran McLaughlin trainee who beat first level allowance foes in his last outing.

We have three graded stakes at Gulfstream Park including a couple of good betting races on turf, the $100,000 W.L. McKnight Handicap (G3) and the $100,000 La Prevoyante Handicap (G3). The stakes action starts with the $100,000 Sugar Swirl (G3) for fillies and mares going six furlongs on the main track.

At Aqueduct a small field will go to the post in the $100,000 Damn Runyon. Six were entered but three are cross-entered in Sunday’s stake.

Todd Pletcher enters a pair of runners at 4-5, Spooked Out and Sudden Surprise, with the latter likely to scratch and go Sunday.

Later on the card a field of six go in the $100,000 Gravesand at six furlongs on the inner track. It will be the final career start for Palace, who is the 2-1 morning line favorite.

He was claimed by Linda Rice for $16,000 and went on to win 11 races for the barn including seven stakes.


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

GP Race 1 Clm $6,250 (12:05 ET)
#8 Poco Man 4-1
#9 Congenial 5-2
#2 Kitten in May 12-1
#4 Storm Warnings 8-1

Analysis: Poco Man stalked the early pace, found himself stuck in traffic lacking room at the 1/8 and finished up with some interest when clear for fourth. The gelding beat $10,000 foes two back in the slop at Gulfstream Park West going seven panels in a race washed off the grass. He has landed in the exacta in four of nine trips here and a cleaner trip makes him the one to beat here.

Congenial pressed the early pace and weakened to finish fourth last out. He was claimed out of the race by the Navarro barn that is 30% winners first off the claim. The gelding has been popular at the claim box, taken in three of his last four starts. He has lost 11 in a row since beating $32,000 claimers at Churchill Downs in Sept. of '14. The stretch back out to a route will suit him.

Wagering
WIN: #8 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 8,9 / 2,4,8,9
TRI: 8,9 / 2,4,8,9 / 2,4,5,8,9

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Aqueduct:

AQU Race 8 The Gravesand (3:50 ET)
#3 Palace 2-1
#5 Fabulous Kid 7-2
#4 Heaven's Runway 6-1
#2 Green Gratto 3-1

Analysis: Palace will be making his final career start here, the former $16,000 claimer having racked up over $1.5 million in his career. He has won just 1 of 6 this year but was a game second last out in the Fall Highweight (G3). The six-year-old stalked the early pace and came with a good late run to just miss over a main track that was kind to inside speed that day. He has run well over the inner track, landing in the exacta in all four trips. Looks like he will go out a winner.

Fabulous Kid also exits the Fall Highweight where he stumbled and was bumped coming out of the gate and finished up well for a close up third, beaten a half-length for the top spot. He earned a career top two back in a neck win against $100,000 optional claimers on the main track here. He comes in here in the best form of his career having stepped it up since landing with Jacobson four back.

Wagering
WIN: #3 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 3,5 / 3,4,5
TRI: no play

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

GP Race 9 The W.L. McKnight Hcp G3 (4:05 ET)
#10 Kaigun 7-2
#3 Roccia d'Oro 15-1
#11 Da Big Hoss 3-1
#5 War Dancer 4-1

Analysis: Kaigun stalked the early pace and finished with some interest for the runner up spot last out in the Red Smith 'Cap (G3) at 1 3/8 miles. His lone try at 1 1/2 miles came two back in the Canadian International (G1) over good grounds and he had the lead mid stretch and weakened late to finish fourth, beaten three lengths. He is 0 for 6 this year but has been facing mostly tougher.

Roccia d'Oro makes his third start since coming to the U.S., last out beaten a neck a nose when third against Alw-1 optional claimers. Two back in his U.S. debut at Belmont Park off a five-month layoff he was fourth behind Mr Maybe, who won the Red Smith in his next outing. The colt has a decent pedigree and the most upside among this group and is going to be a decent price.

Da Big Hoss makes his first start since the Breeders' Cup Turf (G1) where he had some trouble early and picked it up late to finish sixth, beaten 6 1/2 lengths. The Maker barn claimed this guy for $50,000 and he won the restricted John's Call and the Kentucky Turf Cup (G2). Castellano takes the call but the price may end up on the light side.

Wagering
WIN: #10 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 3,10 / 3,5,10,11
TRI: 3,10 / 3,5,10,11 / 3,5,9,10,11

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Gulfstream Park
R1: #2 Kitten in May 12-1
R2: #7 Port Severn 10-1
R2: #36 Racetrack Romance 12-1
R4: #1 You Bought Her 10-1
R5: #9 Lady Nura 10-1
R6: #2 Sweet Forestry 10-1
R6: #10 Lil’ Smartiepants 8-1
R7: #2 Loud and Lovely 8-1
R7: #9 Casting Couch 10-1
R7: #3 Avalancha 10-1
R9: #3 Roccia d’Oro 15-1
R10: #8 Star Contender 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Cal-Expo

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


Race 8 - Post: 8:35 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 85 - Purse:$4400 - OPEN III POST POSITIONS DRAWN IN GROUPS


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 ENDEAVORS KING 6/1


# 4 JAZZMANIAN DEVIL 3/1


# 1 BESTNOTLIE HANOVER 8/1


ENDEAVORS KING looks really good to best this bunch. Most definitely the class of the grouping with an average rating of 87. A nice play. The 5 hole sports a much better than average win figure at Cal-Expo. Fans should always give a second look to harness racers beginning from the 5 post as the return on investment is much better than the expected average. JAZZMANIAN DEVIL - Could positively beat this group given the 89 TrackMaster Speed Rating recorded in his last contest. This gelding getting the ultimate prize wouldn't be impossible, a chance. BESTNOTLIE HANOVER - Most likely the class of the race with an average rating of 86. A nice choice. My calculations say this Wilkinson comes back sharply after a layoff and in good shape

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Rideau Carleton

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


Race 3 - Post: 1:40 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 75 - Purse:$4250 - CLAIMING $6,500. ALLOWANCES FOR AGE & SEX.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 6 IVE GOT IT ALL 5/1


# 9 LUKES DEVON 4/1


# 3 WEDGEWOOD 3/1


If you want a formidable play in this race, feast your eyes on IVE GOT IT ALL. Many smart handicappers know speed is is such an important factor. This interesting entrant has credentials with a 75 average figure. Been doing work with some tougher customers of late, has a distinct class advantage. (Average Rating 76). Always strong driver/conditioner tandem. 37 percent winners when they work together. LUKES DEVON - Is a very promising choice given the 71 TrackMaster Speed Rating from his most recent race. Can't miss the connections here, a 31 winning percentage, one of the most respectable at getting into the winners circle. WEDGEWOOD - Achieved a 70 speed rating last time out. A duplicate showing here should get the victory for this one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Hawthorne

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


Race 8 - Allowance - 6.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $21000 Class Rating: 92

FOR ILLINOIS REGISTERED, CONCEIVED AND/OR FOALED. THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON $9,800 ONCE OR A STATE BRED RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, OR STARTER OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 22 ALLOWED 3 LBS. (PREFERENCE BY


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 PALE HOSE 9/2


# 6 EVEN FEVER 5/1


# 3 GRAY MENSCH 10/1


PALE HOSE looks to be a decent contender. If you gander closely, this entrant has some longshot potential. Has competitive Equibase Speed Figs and has to be considered for a bet for this race. Perez should be able to get this gelding to break out sharply in this event. EVEN FEVER - This entrant has been constatntly racing well lately. Solid dividends have been scored by risk takers using this rider and trainer duo recently. GRAY MENSCH - Will almost certainly compete well in the early speed clash which bodes well with this group of horses. Boasts reliable Equibase Speed Figs on average overall when put alongside the rest of this group of horses.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Hialeah

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


Race 6 - Claiming - 330y on the Dirt. Purse: $11500 Class Rating: 80

QUARTER HORSE 330Y, FOR ACCREDITED FLORIDA BREDS) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 7 SHAKE A CORONA 3/1


# 9 CHAUBY 8/1


# 4 SILVER FOR ME 12/1


I've got to go with SHAKE A CORONA. He has been running soundly and the Equibase Speed Figures are among the most competitive in this group. Strong gamble today on Lasix. With Esqueda aboard him, this gelding will most likely be able to break out sharply in this event. CHAUBY - Looks decent to be up near the front end at the first call. Has to be given a chance based on the solid Equibase speed fig garnered in the last race. SILVER FOR ME - The class fig of today's affair is much lower than his last race. Has a strong shot in this race if you like back class.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Golden Gate Fields - Race #6 - Post: 2:45pm - Optional Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $27,000 Class Rating: 93

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#2 MARQULA (ML=6/1)
#7 ALLABOUTACTION (ML=9/5)


MARQULA - Already ran against today's morning line choice on December 5th at Golden Gate Fields and finished ahead of that one. Have to believe he can do it again in this event. In 2YO races you have to take a good look the sire stats. This one here has one of the most solid with 2YO's. ALLABOUTACTION - Baze was aboard this gelding last time out and was impressed enough to take the horse right back.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 ALGENON (ML=2/1), #6 RISK REWARD (ML=9/2), #1 LAST ONE STANDING (ML=8/1),

ALGENON - Not much value on this thoroughbred at the probable odds of 2/1. RISK REWARD - In the last race it was a nice victory, but this time out the stretch run is going to be a true test of courage. LAST ONE STANDING - This field is a whole lot tougher than the ones he met in the last event. Don't feel this less than sharp equine will do much running in today's event. That last rating was somewhat easily forgotten when compared with today's class figure.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#2 MARQULA is going to be the play if we are getting 5/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Tampa Bay Downs - Race #9 - Post: 4:26pm - Maiden Special - 8.2 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 73

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 BALI STRAIT (ML=7/2)
#7 EQUITABLE (ML=3/1)
#2 FIND THE MONEY (ML=12/1)


BALI STRAIT - The last time I saw this horse was at Presque Isle Downs. Finished second, but had a pretty decent chunk of the win pool. Could be dangerous in this field. My expertise says this is the only stalker in the race. This trainer sure has a knack for stretching out most any equine. Getting the extra distance sure seems to help Harty's starters perform well. EQUITABLE - Was in a Maiden Special race at Churchill Downs last time out. That race had a class figure of 83 and she is moving down in this field. A certain win candidate. Have to make this filly a win candidate; she comes off a strong race on November 28th. She has the highest earnings per start. Take a long look at this thoroughbred. FIND THE MONEY - I undeniably see good things for this steed right here.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 DREAMUP (ML=4/1), #4 DAME STREET (ML=5/1), #3 CLARAVOYANT (ML=6/1),

DREAMUP - Should be difficult for this animal to beat this group off of that last speed rating. Unlikely to improve enough to run a figure close enough to today's Equibase class figure, so put her on the vulnerable contenders list. DAME STREET - Would be taking an underlay on this one at the probable odds of 5/1. CLARAVOYANT - Would be taking an underlay on this entrant at the likely odds of 6/1.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 BALI STRAIT to win at post-time odds of 5/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [2,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2,7] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,2,7] with [1,2,7] with [1,2,4,6,7] with [1,2,4,6,7] Total Cost: $36

SUPER HIGH 5 WAGERS:
[1,2,7] with [1,2,7] with [1,2,6,7] with [1,2,4,5,6,7] with [1,2,4,5,6,7] Total Cost: $72

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct

RACE #2 - AQUEDUCT - 12:50 PM EASTERN POST


The Damon Runyon Stakes

8.3 FURLONGS TWO YEAR OLDS STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#6 SUDDEN SURPRISE
#2 GEHRIG
#4 TAOISEACH
#3 SPOOKED OUT

Well folks ... the Damon Runyon is named for the world famous newspaperman who chronicled Broadway doings and the lives of sports figures and gamblers for several decades. The musical "Guys and Dolls" is based on several of his short stories. Racing was one of his hobbies and he campaigned a modest string of horses. Runyon died in 1946. Here in the 37th running of "The Runyon," #6 SUDDEN SURPRISE takes the least severe step-up in class (+1) in this stakes field this afternoon, is the overall speed leader, and has produced "POWER RUNS" in five straight, including a quartet of "POWER RUN WINS" in his last five outings. Jockey John Velazquez and Trainer Todd Pletcher send him to the post ... they've hit the board with an impressive 53 % of more than 325 entries saddled as a team to date. #2 GEHRIG has hit the board in both of his two career starts to date, including a "POWER RUN WIN" to break his maiden in his last start.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Balmoral: Saturday 12/26 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 9 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (53 - 90 / $185.20): SCARY HARRY (9th)

Spot Play: ROCKIN SOCKEM (3rd)


Race 1

(1) ODDS ON DOMINICA raced gamely last out against a better bunch and gets the best post. (8) SMASHY CERISE drops in for a tag and should be ready for a better effort third start over the track. (4) CEE CEE'S DELIGHT doesn't win often and has never won on the big track; use underneath.

Race 2

(5) BIG FOOTED BUTCH lightly raced pacer comes into the race off a scratch but has a ton of upside. (3) MACHO BURBON pacer can beat this bunch if he minds his manners; command a price. (6) SAGEBRUSH SAM two-year-old faces older and has just been racing evenly; use underneath.

Race 3

(6) ROCKIN SOCKEM filly pacer should offer a big price in a wide-open race. The 3-year-old had tons of pace last start with nowhere to go. (5) MUY CALIENTE has beaten much better on the year. The veteran pacer takes a significant drop in class. (2) MOLLY GO LIGHTLY also drops in class but was very dull last week.

Race 4

(7) LEGAL TRANFER had some sneaky late pace last week and can threaten with a good setup. (4) MADOFF has yet to win at this track on the year but can certainly beat this bunch with some racing luck. (1) URAWOMANIZER bumps up in class but gets the best post in a tough race to gauge.

Race 5

(4) SHAKEITTOTHEMOON will look to make it two straight against a similar field. (5) LIL MISS KNUCKLES gets sent out for a capable barn; threat. (9) PEMBROKE BOOGIE probably needed his last effort and showed some nice late interest.

Race 6

(5) ANTS INER PANTS owns some back class and has room to improve second start back off a long layoff. (4) BIG EXPENSE three-year-old has a high ceiling and will look to make it nine of fourteen in his short career. (2) HUDSON JESSE burned cash last week and had no excuse; use caution.

Race 7

(4) RUSSELL L twelve-year-old owns only one win on the year but is capable of pacing a good mile. (6) RICHESS NESTOR owns the fastest win at the track on the year; threat. (3) B R FLYING DALI drops down to the bottom level and will be used aggressively.

Race 8

(6) ICE SCRAPER needed the start after shipping in from Ohio last week. The Super Night champ should be much better this time around. (1) SUNSET DREAMER has come a long way from being in cheap claimers. The pacer's last effort was tremendous. (2) FIVEKNUCKLESHUFFLE would need more to beat this group; command a price.

Race 9

(1) SCARY HARRY well bred pacer owns a big burst of speed; big chance. (7) SMOKE RINGS hasn't been as sharp in his last two and has yet to win in twenty starts on the year; use underneath. (9) HEAVENLY KNOX four-year-old gelding has had a great year and owns multiple wins at this track.

Race 10

(5) HELLO MY DREAM pacing mare has raced well in two straight and can go much faster. (3) GENTLE JANET has been knocking on the door against better; threat. (10) FOX VALLEY GYPSY two-year-old pacer is up against it from the far outside but can hit the ticket underneath.

Race 11

(4) AS SEELY PROMISED has only had three starts in two months but the pacing mare takes a big drop in class. (5) ALL PINK mare has raced huge in two of her last three; fires early. (8) DP ANGEL is hit or miss every week and usually offers low value.

Race 12

(2) BIG BRAD is tough to endorse on the top spot but the former 2-year-old track record holder is facing a really weak field. (1) JERRICO well bred gelding is another horse that rarely wins but is dropping down a level. (3) SPORTY GYPSY has been competitive against better on the year; threat.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Saturday 12/26 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 3,6,8/3,5,6,8/1,2/3,6/1,3,4,5,7 = $48

EARLY PICK 4: 3,6/1,3,4,5,7/5/4,8,10 = $30

LATE PICK 4: 3,9,10/2,7/1,2,3/4,5 = $36

MEET STATS: 168 - 506 / $905.10 BEST BETS: 26 - 46 / $91.80

SPOT PLAYS: 14 - 46 / $142.70

Best Bet: DIGGIN IN (13th)

Spot Play: STAR COVER (7th)


Race 1

(6) DAZZLING ROCKETTE just failed last time at odds-on to one has come back to beat better last week. She's missed three weeks which might be a concern except that Moreau has won with several of these types at this meet already. (3) ST LADS PENNY LANE showed some life late last time, pacing a strong final 1/4. She has upset possibilities here. (8) DIANNA SANTANNA drops to face easier but often finds herself too far back to contend for the win; minor share predicted.

Race 2

(8) STRONG HOPE raced decently last time off a 5-week break now gets Filion for the first time which has been a big angle at this meet. (6) UPFRONTLUCKYCAROL goes first time for trainer Baillargeon here which is also a potent angle - especially with trotters. (5) OLE JACK MAGIC closed for 2nd after gapping his cover on the turn last week. He needs to be able to keep up around the final turn to be able to threaten for the top spot.

Race 3

(2) CAJON LIGHTNING had to circle stalling cover last week which thwarted any hope he had of winning as stablemate (1) MOHAWK WARRIOR was driving out of the pocket and converting a perfect trip. This Valedictory Final should come down to these two. (8) ROCKINONBY was third to the top two after setting the pace last week now joins them in Moreau's barn. He isn't totally without a shot considering that barn change.

Race 4

(3) CHICAGO HANOVER engaged the leader in an all-out third quarter war last week and despite having to pace that frame in 26 3/5 still prevailed for the win. He can take another here. (6) ROCKABELLA moved first up into some strong fractions last time and held on reasonably well. He can threaten here in his 2nd start over the track. (5) LETS WAIT AND SEE stands a much better chance of grabbing a share here starting from the middle of the gate.

Race 5

(7) CHEYENNE REIDER made a solid late move for third last week on a night when speed ruled. He should get a good pace to chase here. (1) VEGAS ROCKS went a phenomenal trip last week - although somewhat aided by the track bias - and is the one to beat here (5) VELOCITY DRIVEN couldn't close in the speed-biased conditions and can improve here. Consider also (3) MCKINNEY and (4) SHOCK N ROCK for multi-race wagers as this is a very competitive dash.

Race 6

(5) MUSICAL RHYTHM was flawless last week and will likely take another here if he stays flat. (9) IN SECRET got a good trip to win his last but is sharp and in solid form. He will be passing horses late. (2) STORMONT WIZARD exits the Autumn Series where he did well but has missed 3 weeks and will likely be overbet here.

Race 7

(8) STAR COVER got stung first-over to the tune of a 26 2/5 third 1/4 last week and still hung in until very late. He's very sharp and would be extra tough if he made the front early here but he doesn't need the lead to win, either. (10) BIG CITY JEWEL closed impressively last week against the bias and can threaten here at a price. (4) AMERICAN ROCK tried to overcome some insane fractions last time but tired late. He fits here.

Race 8

(3) TWIN B SWEETHEART recovered from an interference break early to finish 4th last week. She can take these with a smoother trip. (9) WEEKLY SPECIAL looked home-free at the 3/4 last week then ran while on a big lead. She clearly is improved and dangerous. (10) BAD AS LEADER is on a roll but the post may be her undoing here.

Race 9

(2) WANDA BAYAMA has been sensational in the preliminary legs of this series and looks mighty tough to beat here in the final. (7) MUCH ADOO hasn't been able to hold the choice off late the past two weeks but others in similar scenarios have turned the tables. She needs more speed late, though. (8) PINKY TUSCADERO made a big move then hung in the stretch last week. She can close for a smaller share here.

Race 10

(3) SOMEWHERE FANCY had lots of pace late on a night where closers basically couldn't win. He will likely move much earlier here starting from a better post. (1) NIRVANA SEELSTER drops from the top class and is a must-use in the late Pick 4. (2) GRIN FOR MONEY is undefeated in Moreau's barn but faces tougher and has missed three weeks; your call.

Race 11

(5) MACH A WISH had to circle poor cover when the pocket-sitter was moving to the front last week on a night when closers were at a disadvantage. She should be better coming back in 7 days, too; top call. (4) ANISTON SEELSTER just failed to catch a razor-sharp winner that is on a major roll. She's the one to fear most. (3) NAT A VIRGIN closed decently off excess cover last time and retains a catch-driver which makes her a threat.

Race 12

(1) SUNNY BEACH DAY isn't the most reliable for the top spot but he's as sharp now as he's ever been and should get a good trip here. (6) TRACK MASTER D was right there with the choice at the wire last week and rates highly here. (8) MACHAL JORDAN drops in class and he has earned most of his money this year when that scenario presents itself; beware.

Race 13

(2) DIGGIN IN simply lays over this group and likely tops this High-5 as the odds-on choice. (7) STATURE SEELSTER paced a sub-27 second third 1/4 on his way to victory last time and looks like the only real threat. (3) JULERICA took ridiculous money last time and struggled to make it around the final turn then closed for third once straightened out; minor share predicted. (5) READ THE PROPOSAL likely surrenders the lead on the backside here then sticks around for a slice. (4) PISTOPACKINPIPER brings some good form north and should make the High-5 ticket.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Saturday 12/26 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 3 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 5 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 9 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 54 - 157 / $287.90 BEST BETS: 6 - 12 / $17.90

Best Bet: FOX VALLEY LEGEND (13th)

Spot Play: COCOACABANA (4th)


Race 1

(1) OVER AND OUT has come back from vacation with two decent races and doesn’t exactly face a group of world-beaters. (4) DREAMS OF THUNDER raced well with Lasix added and won’t be hurt by Campbell joining the team; must use. (9) CALIPARI finds a field without a ton of early zip and could fire away and take command. (8) SPICE IT UP LINDY is capable of winning this week but becomes a huge player if he doesn’t and drops in class next time.

Race 2

(8) MAGENTA MAN comes off a solid victory and looks like an obvious chalk winner. (2) CYPRESS POINT raced much better in his second start for the new barn. Another barn change this week; hopefully keeps it going. (1) DOMINO VOLO has been cautiously handled thus far but certainly is a win candidate on his best.

Race 3

I’m not crazy with (11) MOJARRA HANOVER starting from post 11, but she represents the best combination of talent and form in the race. (3) FAITHFUL FRIEND came up with an even effort at Philly after a long time on the sidelines. I give this 3-year-old a serious shot but fear she’ll be overbet considering the 1-for-15 lifetime record. (8) BORN TO DREAM is in a perfect spot to succeed and that is when these Pat Lachance trainees usually get aggressive. (9) LARGON LAURA can certainly be a threat with the right setup.

Race 4

(1) COCOACABANA doesn’t offer the cleanest gait in the world, but has the ability to trot a pretty quick mile. If she behaves I’d expect a win. (4) FINISH LINE came up just short in his first start with hobbles. He is a clear threat to the winner. (8) CUP TOWN GIRL bested the former last week and rounds out the trio most likely to take a picture.

Race 5

(11) NOT BEFORE EIGHT came uncovered and easily beat a slightly easier group last time. This filly has some ability and seems capable of handling this field at a better price. (1) CAPELA is a sharp horse with a major post edge on (10) CHEYENNE ROBIN, who has won three straight and beat her last week. Both figure as major players. (4) QUICK AINT FAIR qualified back in decent order and has a strong career record.

Race 6

(8) CHARLES VII finished up very willingly in that qualifier with Lasix added. He was keeping good company at Yonkers and should have every chance tonight. (5) MERGATROID has been racing well for well over a month; using. (2) ULSTER has high speed and could run away and hide. (1) MARION MILLIONAIR has shown some closing speed of late.

Race 7

(2) PURITY continues to climb the condition ladder with success and I see no reason to get off the bandwagon. (3) CLEAR VIEW HANOVER has proven herself at this track and the trainer in the bike means a better price. (6) GWENEEEE J raced well during the summer and her return qualifier was solid.

Race 8

(1) SWEET JUSTICE was done in by post 10 last time but still raced reasonably well. In a field without an abundance of form, he is the one to beat. (6) SHEER FLEX had some late trot racing for this barn last time; drops tonight. (2) DANISH DURANGO also drops down and gets post relief; big threat. (7) LADY WINDSOR could be coming late if the pace scenario is favorable.

Race 9

(6) UVA HANOVER rallied with good energy from an impossible spot in the Open a week ago and now catches a weaker field. (5) HYWAY MARCUS raced well with Lasix added and seems to be moving in the right direction now. (8) CASH ME OUT sprinted home in 26 4/5 last time; maybe. (11) TWEET ME is a horse that tends to show good life late in the mile. She has a shot with a clean trip.

Race 10

(5) FANTICIPATION has typically raced well here while unable to visit the winner’s circle. Tonight she faces either dull foes or those moving up in class and will have every opportunity to get home first. (8) CNDIANA JONES was in against much tougher and stuck in post 10 last week. This is a prime spot. (1) LIZZIE’S DREAM doesn’t entice on the top of tickets at just 3 for her last 71, but she figures to flash speed and get a good piece. (11) LET HER ROCK should follow the former away from the second tier and get a nice piece.

Race 11

(5) STITCH IN TIME was in over his head and made a break last time out. He fits in nicely with this very competitive field and should have every opportunity. (4) YOU ROCK MY WORLD won two straight then got stuck with an outside post at The Meadows; clear player back in NJ. (7) KEYSTONE THOMAS has won three straight and figures to be flying off the wings of the gate. (3) HOUSE OF CASH won against similar last time.

Race 12

(4) SIR LEHIGH Z TAM finally gets a good post to start from after a trio of 10-holes. Lachance trainee has proven herself her in the past and has tactical speed if necessary. (1) PANCAKES can’t seem to get over the top but is clearly in good form; brush and crush try from inside? (2) EXHILARATED drops down after some nice efforts; hard to toss. (11) JANIE BAY can clearly win but hasn’t been as good lately as I thought she’d be.

Race 13

(8) FOX VALLEY LEGEND stormed home in his last two versus better to be second and third. He should be able to handle this group. (2) INNER PEACE should be using his big early speed to get some separation on the favored top choice. (1) FEISTY LOVE figures to get away closer to the action this time around.

Race 14

(3) BLUE MUSE has proven capable of dropping a big mile and this field ripe for the taking. (5) HASTY PROFFITT has been in tough from outside posts at Philly; better spot this week. (6) NAMESMUSCLE has won two of three starts for Burke.

Race 15

(2) SHARP EDGE drops down off a decent effort and was able to lure Bongiorno off a Burke-trained horse. (3) JACKIE GOLDSTEIN closed well to beat the top choice last time; main danger. (4) DIVINATION moves into a good post for the first time in a few weeks. (10) MISS PANTHERS wouldn’t be a complete surprise but has some work to do from the poor post.