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Inside The Huddle – Friday
#263 MIAMI @ #264 ATLANTA - 7:00 PM
Line: Falcons -3, Total: 37
The Miami Dolphins will kick off the 2014 preseason against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on Friday. Miami, of course, is coming off a controversy-filled 8-8 campaign a year ago which ultimately resulted in offensive tackle Jonathan Martin leaving the team after being bullied by linemate Richie Incognito and others. Head coach Joe Philbin survived the embarrassing scandal but is likely on a short leash considering owner Stephen Ross embattled general manger Jeff Ireland in favor of Dennis Hickey and gave Hickey full autonomy over all personnel matters.
One thing that is certain is that the Fish need improved play from the Offensive-line. Miami allowed a league-high 58 sacks and couldn't protect quarterback Ryan Tannehill with Martin and Incognito or without them. The Dolphins started the rebuild up front by giving ex- Kansas City left tackle Branden Albert a monster deal in free agency and drafting Tennessee offensive tackle Ja'Wuan James with the 19th overall pick.
The team suffered a huge blow, however, when its best O-lineman, center Mike Pouncey, was forced to undergo hip surgery back in June, a development which will cost the Pro-Bowler at least three months. Defensively, Miami was able to bring in veteran cornerback Cortland Finnegan to team with Brent Grimes on the outside. Finnegan has probably seen his better days but he's always been a scrappy player who competes and brings a nastiness contagious to any defense.
Atlanta, of course, went from the penthouse to the outhouse in 2013, following up a trip to the NFC Championship Game with a 4-12 injury-plagued season. Among the most compelling storylines for the Falcons figures to be the shift to an attacking defensive scheme under coordinator Mike Nolan, a change made far more difficult after the devastating offseason loss of linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who went down with a ruptured Achilles tendon. Weatherspoon's potential replacements -- 2013 undrafted college free agent Joplo Bartu and nondescript veteran Tim Dobbins -- are significant downgrades.
General manager Thomas Dimitroff was intent on getting bigger and more physical up front, however, and he took some significant strides in that direction, bringing in run-stuffer Paul Soliai from Miami and big, five- technique defensive end Tyson Jackson in free agency and drafting the athletically-gifted Ra'Shede Hageman. Offensively the Falcons have a star quarterback in place (Matt Ryan) and are counting on big-play receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White to stay healthy as well as a revamped offensive line featuring the No. 6 overall pick, Jake Matthews, and free agent pickup Jon Asamoah.
Jones and White believe they have what it takes to become the first NFL receiving duo to each top the 1,500-yard mark. "There ain't no telling. Me and Rod... 1,500, 2,000 ... You never know what we can do out there," Jones told SiriusXM NFL Radio. "I think it's possible, absolutely," Ryan added. "I'm lucky to have two of the best guys and the best tandem in the NFL. I think they're both going to have big years."
QB ROTATIONS
•Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, Matt Moore, Pat Devlin, Brock Jensen.
•Falcons: Matt Ryan, T.J. Yates, Sean Renfree.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Dolphins: 11-18 ATS Game #1 (0-2 L2), 19-13 favorite, 28-20 dog, 0-4 favorites off BB straight-up wins, 1-6 away versus opponent off SU favorite loss, 2-7 road favorite’s, 1-8 SU and ATS under Philbin.
•Falcons: 14-14 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 25-21 favorite, 27-21 dog, 10-1 off SU dog win versus opponent off straight-up loss, 6-1 road favorite’s, 8-2 away off SU favorite loss, 1-8 Home under Smith.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Miami, Joe Philbin 2-7 SU, 1-8 ATS, 5-4 O/U, 0-6 vs. opponent Game Two or later.
•Atlanta, Mike Smith 7-17 SU, 9-13-2 ATS, 11-12-1 O/U, 5-1 off SU favorite loss.
FAST FACT
The Dolphins were ranked 20th against the pass last season, but they only allowed 17 passing touchdowns (3rd). They also intercepted 18 passes (10th) and had 42 sacks (11th). Note: The Falcons and Dolphins have met in the preseason 12 previous times with Atlanta holding a slim 7-5 edge in the series.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 26 times, while the favorite covered the spread 16 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 26 times, while the underdog won straight up 19 times. 31 games went under the total, while 23 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 42 times, while the underdog covered first half line 42 times. *No EDGE. 47 games went under first half total, while 43 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
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#265 BUFFALO @ #266 CAROLINA - 7:30 PM
Line: Bills -1.5, Total: 37
The Buffalo Bills will continue their extended preseason in the Tar Heel State when they take on a Carolina Panthers team trying to build on an impressive 2013 resume. The Bills fell in the annual Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio last Sunday when New York fourth-round rookie Andre Williams ran for 48 yards and a touchdown as the Giants edged Buffalo 17-13. Bills second-year quarterback E.J. Manuel was just 2-of-7 for 19 yards, while highly touted rookie wide receiver Sammie Watkins was targeted three times, but did not have a reception.
Backup QB Jeff Tuel completed 12-of-17 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown to Robert Woods, who caught four passes for 49 yards and the score. Bryce Brown, who was acquired in a trade from Philadelphia in the offseason, carried the ball seven times for 40 yards in defeat. "I just had a lot of fun," said Tuel. "Tried to stay within the system and just move the ball and just did what we've been doing all camp and it ended up working out."
The Panthers, meanwhile, finished 12-4 in 2013 but have faced plenty of obstacles since. QB Cam Newton underwent left ankle surgery in March and wasn't ready for serious offseason work while receiver Steve Smith, perhaps the best player in franchise history, is now in Baltimore. Also, steady left tackle Jordan Gross and linemate Travelle Wharton both called it a career and pass-rushing star Greg Hardy is dealing with some significant legal issues and could be facing a league-imposed suspension.
Newton has been practicing consistently at camp but could be held out on Friday. "I'm not going to say yes and all of a sudden he's not going to (play). And I'm not going to say no and all of a sudden he's going to," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. The biggest issue on the field for Carolina seems to be at receiver, a group which is headlined by C-level free agent pickups Jerricho Cotchery and Jason Avant, along with rookie first-round pick Kelvin Benjamin. Meanwhile converted right tackle Byron Bell is penciled in to replace Gross at the all-important left tackle spot.
On defense, the front seven remains one of the National Football League's best, especially if Hardy is on the field but the team lost underrated safety Mike Mitchell and nickel playmaker Captain Munnerlyn in free agency. Veteran safety Thomas Decoud, who made the Pro Bowl in Atlanta after the 2012 season, will be asked to help replace the departed Mitchell.
QB ROTATIONS
•Bills: E. J. Manuel, Thad Lewis, Jeff Tuel, Dennis Dixon.
•Panthers: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Matt Blanchard, Joe Webb.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Bills: 12-17 Game #2 (0-2 L2), 13-23 favorite, 31-32 dog, 0-6 favorites off double-digit straight-up win, 0-6 off BB SU wins, 2-8 home versus opponent off DD SU loss, 1-10 L11 away.
•Panthers: 10-8 Game #1 (1-0 most recent), 15-19 favorite, 21-19 dog, 8-0 off straight-up dog win, 5-1 dogs versus opponent off double-digit SU win, 1-6 favorites off BB SU losses, 6-1 off BB SU wins.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Buffalo, Doug Marrone 2-2 SU, 1-2-1 ATS, 2-2 O/U, 0-2 vs. opponent off SU win.
•Carolina, Ron Rivera 6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS, 6-6 O/U, 5-1 if total is 36 points or less.
FAST FACT
Following its Week #1 Lost to the Giants the Bills now stand just 1-11 straight-up and 1-10-1 against the spread versus the National Football Conference during the exhibition season. Buffalo is also 1-10-1 ATS when playing on Fridays.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 16 times, while the favorite covered the spread 12 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 20 times, while the underdog won straight up 11 times. 25 games went under the total, while 17 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 21 times, while the favorite covered first half line 17 times. *No EDGE. 40 games went over first half total, while 39 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Road teams where the first half total is between 18 and 21 (BUFFALO) - off 1 or more consecutive unders.
(59-29 over the last 5 seasons.) (67.0%, +27.1 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 19
The average first half score in these games was: Team 10.1, Opponent 12.3 (Total first half points scored = 22.4)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (28-10).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (117-75).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (286-183).
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#267 TAMPA BAY @ #268 JACKSONVILLE - 7:30 PM
Line: Jaguars -1, Total: 37
The rebuilding Jacksonville Jaguars will open the 2014 preseason on Friday by hosting fellow Sunshine State resident Tampa Bay and its new coach, Lovie Smith. Led by second-year general manager David Caldwell and head coach Gus Bradley, the Jaguars are coming off a 4-12 season in 2013, including four wins in a five game stretch during the second half of the season. The foundation of Jacksonville's rebuilding process has begun to take shape with the headliner being rookie quarterback Blake Bortles, who was taken with the third overall pick in May's draft.
Caldwell also hit free agency hard, bringing in significant contributors at running back (Toby Gerhart), left guard (Zane Beadles) and on the defensive line (Red Bryant, Chris Clemons and Ziggy Hood). Next up is figuring out whether veteran Chad Henne will serve as the bridge at the quarterback position or if Bortles can hit the ground running, and if rookie receivers Marqise Lee or Allen Robinson can at least help alleviate the loss of the very talented Justin Blackmon, who is suspended indefinitely for repeated violations of the league's substance-abuse policy.
"We still have a lot of work to do so you won't see us game prep much for Tampa Bay," Bradley said. "You'll see us go out and get some of these situations done. Try to elevate the level of play through a little bit more reps for the ones, get them acclimated to it. And then be precise on our responsibilities."
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, are a sexy pick by many to be a playoff contender in 2014, especially if veteran free agent quarterback Josh McCown can take advantage of a similar set-up to what he had in Chicago with two very tall receivers (Vincent Jackson and rookie Mike Evans). The 35-year-old McCown is no long-term fix for Tampa, which finished a disappointing 4-12 a year ago, but he proved that he could perform with solid skill-position talent around him with the Bears last year.
The Sam Houston State product really excelled when throwing the jump ball to lengthy receivers like Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett in Chicago and will have a similar setup in Tampa now that the 6-foot-5 Evans and 6-5 rookie tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins will be joining similar-sized veteran Jackson. "He reminds me of Drew (Brees)," Bucs linebacker Jonathan Casillas told WEPN radio in New York when discussing McCown. "Not just the way he throws the ball, but his approach to the game. The first one in, last one out. You know, he's always around. He's very (communicative), very personable. And you can tell he's a born leader."
Defensively Smith came in and quickly asserted that the Bucs' pass rush simply wasn't good enough so the team spent heavily on former Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson, signing the lengthy player to a five-year deal worth $43 million, including $24 million in guaranteed money. The 27-year-old former third-round pick out of Georgia Tech is one of the better two-way ends in football, stellar against the run and solid when chasing the passer. Johnson had 11 1/2 sacks in 2012 before dropping back to just 3 1/2 last year in Mike Zimmer's rotational system. More reps in Smith's scheme should mean bigger numbers for the high-priced Johnson.
"Coach Smith and (defensive coordinator Leslie) Frazier, they're putting together a great defense," Johnson said. "I'm just thankful to be a part of it, and looking forward to all the stuff I can do."
QB ROTATIONS
•Buccaneers: Josh McCown, Mike Glennon, Mike Kafka, Alex Tanney.
•Jaguars: Chad Henne, Blake Bortles, Ricky Stanzi.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Buccaneers: 14-15 ATS Game #1 (0-1 most recent), 22-25 favorite, 29-18 dog, 7-1 dogs versus opponent off straight-up dog win, 12-3 .500 or more off straight-up loss, 0-5 away off SU dog win.
•Jaguars: 7-9 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 21-22 favorite, 19-12 dog, 7-1 off BB straight-up losses, 4-1 home dog’s, 4-0 favorites off straight-up favorite loss, 7-1 away off DD SU win, 8-2 Over/Under L10.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Tampa Bay, Lovie Smith 19-18 SU, 18-18-1 ATS, 20-17 O/U, 5-1 off SU dog win.
•Jacksonville, Gus Bradley 1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS, 2-2 O/U, 0-3 SU/ATS pick or dog.
FAST FACT
According to our NFL database here at WWW.StatSystemsSports.net we find the Jacksonville Jaguars having gone 11-4 Over/Under at home (73% Overs) since the 2006 season. Jacksonville home games have averaged 42.1 PPG in this time frame.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 24 times, while the underdog covered the spread 10 times. *EDGE against the spread =JACKSONVILLE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 29 times, while the underdog won straight up 7 times. 33 games went under the total, while 16 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 32 times, while the underdog covered first half line 25 times. *No EDGE. 44 games went under first half total, while 34 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
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#269 NEW ORLEANS @ #270 ST LOUIS - 8:00 PM
Line: Rams -3, Total: 38
The high-powered New Orleans Saints begin their quest for another successful campaign on Friday night at the Edward Jones Dome when they open the preseason against what figures to be an improved St. Louis Rams team. The Saints have advanced to the playoffs in four of the past five seasons and are looking to build on last year's 11-5 finish. Despite having little salary-cap room at the beginning of free agency New Orleans was able to bring in a difference maker for the back end of its defense in former Buffalo safety Jairus Byrd.
He, along with fellow safety Kenny Vaccaro and cornerback Keenan Lewis, now give the Saints a host of upper-echelon players in the secondary, meaning defensive coordinator Rob Ryan can get exotic with the pass rush. The Saints do need to replace the production of departed scatback Darren Sproles but head coach Sean Payton is as inventive as it gets and rookie receiver Brandin Cooks should step in as NOLA's new "Where's Waldo" player.
Meanwhile, the team avoided a potential messy situation by signing star tight end Jimmy Graham to a big-money, four-year contract on July 15. "I think the expectations for us as a team are higher," said Payton. "This is another team. There are a handful of new faces that weren't here a year ago. Our goals are set high."
In St. Louis this is likely the make-or-break year for quarterback Sam Bradford, who will be returning from a torn ACL suffered in Week 7 of last season. The fact that Bradford and the Rams play in a division where three teams won 10- or-more games a year ago isn't going to help matters but Jeff Fisher's club figures to have one of the NFL's best fronts on defense and an offense with some pretty impressive pieces if the QB can hold his own water. "It's all about expectations now," said Fisher. "Yes, we have youth, but now there's skill at every position. There's experience there, too."
QB ROTATIONS
•Saints: Drew Brees, Luke McCown, Ryan Griffin.
•Rams: Sam Bradford, Shaun Hill, Austin Davis
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Saints: 18-13 ATS Game #1 (3-0 L3), 21-26 favorite, 35-19 dog, 4-0 dogs off BB straight-up losses, 10-1 versus opponent off straight-up loss under Payton, 7-1 away off DD SU win.
•Rams: 12-18 ATS, Game #1 (0-2 L2), 20-22 favorite, 24-30 dog, 6-1 after scoring 35 or more points, 5-1 versus opponent off BB straight-up and ATS wins, 4-1 away off SU dog win, 1-4 dogs off BB SU losses.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•New Orleans, Sean Payton 16-13 SU, 18-11 ATS, 14-12-3 O/U, 10-1 vs. opponent off SU loss.
•St. Louis, Jeff Fisher 37-35 SU, 36-34-2 ATS, *34-23 O/U, 5-0 dog vs. opponent off SU/ATS win.
FAST FACT
The Saints are s 19-4 ATS in a road game where the total is between 35.5 and 38 points since 1993. Note: This will be only the third preseason meeting between the two old NFC West rivals and the first time they have met since 1967 and 1968, the first two years of existence for the Saints and when the Rams franchise was located in Los Angeles.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 21 times, while the favorite covered the spread 8 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW ORLEANS. In past games, the underdog won the game straight up 16 times, while the favorite won the game straight up 14 times. 21 games went over the total, while 19 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 33 times, while the favorite covered first half line 27 times. *No EDGE. 38 games went over first half total, while 18 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
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#271 PHILADELPHIA @ #272 CHICAGO - 8:00 PM
Line: Bears -2, Total: 41.5
The Philadelphia Eagles kick off their preseason slate in the Windy City on Friday as they travel to Soldier Field to take on the Chicago Bears. The Eagles surprised many by finishing 10-6 and winning the NFC East in 2013 under the direction of innovative rookie head coach Chip Kelly. A potential sequel, however, will have to take place without one of the game's best, pure home-run hitters in receiver DeSean Jackson. Jackson, who was coming off a career year, was released in the offseason due to problems with Kelly and the whispers of some nefarious off-the-field behavior but division rival Washington had no issue with quickly picking up the Pro-Bowl selection.
Hindsight will ultimately prove that the Jackson mess was either incredible hubris on Kelly's part or provide further proof that the former Oregon mentor is indeed one of the great offensive minds of this generation. Jeremy Maclin, who is returning from a torn ACL and has been seen limping at times in camp, and the lengthy Riley Cooper will start at receiver for the Birds with rookie second-round pick Jordan Matthews hoping to mix in frequently. None possesses the pure, gamebreaking ability of Jackson, though, so the spacing Kelly craves figures to be a bit more difficult to create this time around.
A second major issue propped up late in June when second-year right tackle Lane Johnson tested positive for a performance- enhancing drug and suspended by the NFL for the first four games of the upcoming season. On the other side of the ball Philadelphia has struggled at safety since former six-time All-Pro Brian Dawkins walked in free agency after the 2008 season. The Eagles feel they finally have a solid presence on the back end, though, after signing former Saints first-round pick Malcolm Jenkins in free agency. "He had the specific skill set that we were looking for," Kelly said. "So he was the No. 1 guy we were looking for in free agency."
That skill set Kelly is speaking of is coverage skills, a necessity for a defense which ranked last in the NFL last season defending the pass, allowing an average of 289.8 yards per game. "It's just about making the calls and eliminating the dumb mistakes to where you (limit) big plays or blown coverage’s," Jenkins said. "That's where I come in, as far as knowing the defense, making the right calls, and getting everybody lined up so then we can go play fast."
Bears general manager Phil Emery spent much of his offseason trying to upgrade a defense which collapsed in 2013, focusing largely on the front four. Chicago bid adieu to veterans Julius Peppers, Henry Melton and Corey Wootton and used free agency to bolster the defensive end position, bringing in veteran pass-rushing star Jared Allen, along with Lamarr Houston and Willie Young. Emery then carpet-bombed defensive tackle in the draft with a pair of early selections, second-rounder Ego Ferguson and third-rounder Will Sutton. Much like last season, though, Chicago will go only as far as its high-powered offense can take it. Little tinkering was done there and rightfully so because the Bears were so explosive on offense last season.
A few issues popped up this week, however. Receiver Marquess Wilson, who was battling for the No. 3 position behind Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery, will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a fractured right clavicle in Monday's training camp practice. Wilson was hurt when he dove for a pass in the end zone. "Diving for balls is one of the most difficult things not to do when you're a competitive player," Bears coach Marc Trestman said. "We promote it, we talk about it a lot. When a guy goes to make a play on the ball you're not going to be disappointed with him if he doesn't go to the ground.
" Meanwhile star tight end Martellus Bennett was suspended Tuesday for conduct detrimental to the team after an incident in practice in which he slammed rookie cornerback Kyle Fuller to the ground after the first-round pick spun the veteran around on a tackle after a reception. The Eagles and Bears will be meeting in the preseason for just the third time since 1975, with the series tied at one game apiece.
QB ROTATIONS
•Eagles: Nick Foles, Mark Sanchez, Matt Barkley, G.J. Kinne.
•Bears: Jay Cutler, Jordan Palmer, Jimmy Clausen, David Fales.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Eagles: 9-18 ATS Game #1 (1-8 L9), 26-33 favorite, 15-22 dog, 5-1 road favorite’s with revenge, 0-5 home versus opponent off BB straight-up wins, 1-7 favorites off BB SU and ATS wins.
•Bears: 15-14 ATS Game #1 (0-2 L2), 18-26 favorite, 28-25 dog, 5-1 dogs off double-digit straight-up loss, 0-7 favorites off BB SU and ATS losses, 1-5 home versus opponent off SU dog win.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Philadelphia, Chip Kelly 2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS, 3-1 O/U, 2-0 SU/ATS if total is 40 points or more.
•Chicago, Marc Trestman 2-2SU, 1-3 ATS, 3-1 O/U, 0-2 dog.
FAST FACT
Philadelphia has gone a perfect 5-0-1 Over/Under in the last three seasons when playing on the preseason road (47.1 combined PPG). Going back a little further, the numbers for Philly are still consistently strong at 18-9-2 Over/Under (67% Overs) since the 1999 season. Last season, the Eagles road encounters had 55 and 47 total points scored.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 11 times, while the underdog covered the spread 9 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 13 times, while the underdog won straight up 8 times. 14 games went over the total, while 3 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 23 times, while the underdog covered first half line 23 times. *No EDGE. 18 games went over first half total, while 6 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
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#273 OAKLAND @ #274 MINNESOTA - 8:00 PM
Line: Vikings -3, Total: 38
A new coach and a new temporary home will be unveiled to the Minnesota Vikings' faithful on Friday. Head coach Mike Zimmer will make his debut with the Vikings as they open the 2014 NFL preseason against the visiting Oakland Raiders. The contest also marks the first game of the Vikings' two-year stay on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The Vikings will play the 2014 and 2015 seasons at TCF Bank Stadium while the team's new stadium is being built downtown at the same site as its previous home, Mall of America Field.
Minnesota, which finished 5-10-1 in 2013, figures to finally sport a 21st- century defense now that Zimmer has taken over the head-coaching duties from Tampa-2 acolyte Leslie Frazier. The real issue with the Vikings, however, remains the game's most important position. The franchise was set back years by 2011 draft bust Christian Ponder. For now, veteran Matt Cassel is the placeholder for rookie first-round pick Teddy Bridgewater, an intriguing prospect who struggled in the pre-draft process but has drawn rave reviews from Minny offensive coordinator Norv Turner during training camp.
Bridgewater, who was once considered a top-five-level prospect, was taken with the 32nd overall pick, a prudent gamble. The Louisville product is the most polished and NFL-ready signal caller from this year's draft class. "There is no pressure on this kid to come in and play," general manger Rick Spielman said. "We're very comfortable with Matt Cassel right now. He'll come in and compete and then the coaches will determine if he's even ready to play this year." On defense Minnesota re-built the front four (re-signing promising pass rusher Everson Griffen and inking ascending nose tackle Linval Joseph, along with underrated swingman Corey Wootton), and addressed cornerback as well (snaring slot star Captain Munnerlyn and the lengthy Derek Cox) in free agency.
Perhaps no team upgraded its overall talent level more than the Raiders, who finished 4-12 in 2013, in the offseason. General manger Reggie McKenzie had a ton of money to spend and he brought in a host of veterans who figure to help, headlined by quarterback Matt Schaub, running back Maurice Jones-Drew, wide receiver James Jones and O- linemen Austin Howard and Kevin Boothe on offense, and defensive linemen Justin Tuck, Antonio Smith and Lamarr Woodley as well as cornerback Carlos Rogers on defense. Add potential rookie linebacking star Khalil Mack to that mix and you can see Oakland is among the most-improved teams in football, at least on paper.
The wheels came off on Schaub during his final season in Houston and it's conceivable the 33-year-old QB's days as a productive starter at this level are over. The Raiders, though, are obviously hoping that last season was the anomaly and that Schaub will return to being the 4,000-yard passer he was in 2012 when the Texans were making a postseason run. "I think every man on the team is counting on him being the guy," veteran safety Charles Woodson told Sirius XM NFL Radio when discussing Schaub. "You know, you bring him over from Houston, and it's been duly noted about the struggles that he had last year. But you can't discount the year that he had before last year so we're looking at last year as being an anomaly and that not being the true Matt Schaub."
QB ROTATIONS
•Raiders: Matt Schaub, Derek Carr, Matt McGloin, Trent Edwards.
•Vikings: Matt Cassel, Christian Ponder, Teddy Bridgewater.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Raiders: 15-15 ATS Game #1 (1-0 most recent), 22-27 favorite, 25-27 dog, 0-7 favorites versus opponent off straight-up favorite loss, 0-4 home after allowing 35 or more points, 1-9 dogs off DD ATS loss.
•Vikings: 17-14 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 28-23 favorite, 27-19 dog, 4-0 dogs versus opponent off BB straight-up wins, 7-1 home off SU loss versus opponent off SU loss, 1-7 away versus opponent off DD SU loss.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Oakland, Dennis Allen 2-6 SU, 3-5 ATS, 5-3 O/U, 1-4 dog 4 points or more.
•Minnesota, Mike Zimmer no trends available.
FAST FACT
In the last five seasons, the best road Over team has been the Oakland Raiders. Their road games have averaged 44.8 total PPG in the same time span, and the games have gone 9-1 Over/Under (90% Overs). That’s a ‘total reversal’ from 2000-2007, when Raider road games went 3-13 Over/Under Note: This will be the fifth time the Vikings have met the Raiders in the preseason with Minnesota holding a 3-1 advantage in the series.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 16 times, while the favorite covered the spread 15 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 20 times, while the underdog won straight up 12 times. 30 games went under the total, while 23 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 36 times, while the favorite covered first half line 34 times. *No EDGE. 55 games went over first half total, while 26 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
StatSystemsSports
Inside The Huddle – Friday
#263 MIAMI @ #264 ATLANTA - 7:00 PM
Line: Falcons -3, Total: 37
The Miami Dolphins will kick off the 2014 preseason against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on Friday. Miami, of course, is coming off a controversy-filled 8-8 campaign a year ago which ultimately resulted in offensive tackle Jonathan Martin leaving the team after being bullied by linemate Richie Incognito and others. Head coach Joe Philbin survived the embarrassing scandal but is likely on a short leash considering owner Stephen Ross embattled general manger Jeff Ireland in favor of Dennis Hickey and gave Hickey full autonomy over all personnel matters.
One thing that is certain is that the Fish need improved play from the Offensive-line. Miami allowed a league-high 58 sacks and couldn't protect quarterback Ryan Tannehill with Martin and Incognito or without them. The Dolphins started the rebuild up front by giving ex- Kansas City left tackle Branden Albert a monster deal in free agency and drafting Tennessee offensive tackle Ja'Wuan James with the 19th overall pick.
The team suffered a huge blow, however, when its best O-lineman, center Mike Pouncey, was forced to undergo hip surgery back in June, a development which will cost the Pro-Bowler at least three months. Defensively, Miami was able to bring in veteran cornerback Cortland Finnegan to team with Brent Grimes on the outside. Finnegan has probably seen his better days but he's always been a scrappy player who competes and brings a nastiness contagious to any defense.
Atlanta, of course, went from the penthouse to the outhouse in 2013, following up a trip to the NFC Championship Game with a 4-12 injury-plagued season. Among the most compelling storylines for the Falcons figures to be the shift to an attacking defensive scheme under coordinator Mike Nolan, a change made far more difficult after the devastating offseason loss of linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who went down with a ruptured Achilles tendon. Weatherspoon's potential replacements -- 2013 undrafted college free agent Joplo Bartu and nondescript veteran Tim Dobbins -- are significant downgrades.
General manager Thomas Dimitroff was intent on getting bigger and more physical up front, however, and he took some significant strides in that direction, bringing in run-stuffer Paul Soliai from Miami and big, five- technique defensive end Tyson Jackson in free agency and drafting the athletically-gifted Ra'Shede Hageman. Offensively the Falcons have a star quarterback in place (Matt Ryan) and are counting on big-play receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White to stay healthy as well as a revamped offensive line featuring the No. 6 overall pick, Jake Matthews, and free agent pickup Jon Asamoah.
Jones and White believe they have what it takes to become the first NFL receiving duo to each top the 1,500-yard mark. "There ain't no telling. Me and Rod... 1,500, 2,000 ... You never know what we can do out there," Jones told SiriusXM NFL Radio. "I think it's possible, absolutely," Ryan added. "I'm lucky to have two of the best guys and the best tandem in the NFL. I think they're both going to have big years."
QB ROTATIONS
•Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, Matt Moore, Pat Devlin, Brock Jensen.
•Falcons: Matt Ryan, T.J. Yates, Sean Renfree.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Dolphins: 11-18 ATS Game #1 (0-2 L2), 19-13 favorite, 28-20 dog, 0-4 favorites off BB straight-up wins, 1-6 away versus opponent off SU favorite loss, 2-7 road favorite’s, 1-8 SU and ATS under Philbin.
•Falcons: 14-14 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 25-21 favorite, 27-21 dog, 10-1 off SU dog win versus opponent off straight-up loss, 6-1 road favorite’s, 8-2 away off SU favorite loss, 1-8 Home under Smith.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Miami, Joe Philbin 2-7 SU, 1-8 ATS, 5-4 O/U, 0-6 vs. opponent Game Two or later.
•Atlanta, Mike Smith 7-17 SU, 9-13-2 ATS, 11-12-1 O/U, 5-1 off SU favorite loss.
FAST FACT
The Dolphins were ranked 20th against the pass last season, but they only allowed 17 passing touchdowns (3rd). They also intercepted 18 passes (10th) and had 42 sacks (11th). Note: The Falcons and Dolphins have met in the preseason 12 previous times with Atlanta holding a slim 7-5 edge in the series.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 26 times, while the favorite covered the spread 16 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 26 times, while the underdog won straight up 19 times. 31 games went under the total, while 23 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 42 times, while the underdog covered first half line 42 times. *No EDGE. 47 games went under first half total, while 43 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
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#265 BUFFALO @ #266 CAROLINA - 7:30 PM
Line: Bills -1.5, Total: 37
The Buffalo Bills will continue their extended preseason in the Tar Heel State when they take on a Carolina Panthers team trying to build on an impressive 2013 resume. The Bills fell in the annual Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio last Sunday when New York fourth-round rookie Andre Williams ran for 48 yards and a touchdown as the Giants edged Buffalo 17-13. Bills second-year quarterback E.J. Manuel was just 2-of-7 for 19 yards, while highly touted rookie wide receiver Sammie Watkins was targeted three times, but did not have a reception.
Backup QB Jeff Tuel completed 12-of-17 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown to Robert Woods, who caught four passes for 49 yards and the score. Bryce Brown, who was acquired in a trade from Philadelphia in the offseason, carried the ball seven times for 40 yards in defeat. "I just had a lot of fun," said Tuel. "Tried to stay within the system and just move the ball and just did what we've been doing all camp and it ended up working out."
The Panthers, meanwhile, finished 12-4 in 2013 but have faced plenty of obstacles since. QB Cam Newton underwent left ankle surgery in March and wasn't ready for serious offseason work while receiver Steve Smith, perhaps the best player in franchise history, is now in Baltimore. Also, steady left tackle Jordan Gross and linemate Travelle Wharton both called it a career and pass-rushing star Greg Hardy is dealing with some significant legal issues and could be facing a league-imposed suspension.
Newton has been practicing consistently at camp but could be held out on Friday. "I'm not going to say yes and all of a sudden he's not going to (play). And I'm not going to say no and all of a sudden he's going to," Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. The biggest issue on the field for Carolina seems to be at receiver, a group which is headlined by C-level free agent pickups Jerricho Cotchery and Jason Avant, along with rookie first-round pick Kelvin Benjamin. Meanwhile converted right tackle Byron Bell is penciled in to replace Gross at the all-important left tackle spot.
On defense, the front seven remains one of the National Football League's best, especially if Hardy is on the field but the team lost underrated safety Mike Mitchell and nickel playmaker Captain Munnerlyn in free agency. Veteran safety Thomas Decoud, who made the Pro Bowl in Atlanta after the 2012 season, will be asked to help replace the departed Mitchell.
QB ROTATIONS
•Bills: E. J. Manuel, Thad Lewis, Jeff Tuel, Dennis Dixon.
•Panthers: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Matt Blanchard, Joe Webb.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Bills: 12-17 Game #2 (0-2 L2), 13-23 favorite, 31-32 dog, 0-6 favorites off double-digit straight-up win, 0-6 off BB SU wins, 2-8 home versus opponent off DD SU loss, 1-10 L11 away.
•Panthers: 10-8 Game #1 (1-0 most recent), 15-19 favorite, 21-19 dog, 8-0 off straight-up dog win, 5-1 dogs versus opponent off double-digit SU win, 1-6 favorites off BB SU losses, 6-1 off BB SU wins.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Buffalo, Doug Marrone 2-2 SU, 1-2-1 ATS, 2-2 O/U, 0-2 vs. opponent off SU win.
•Carolina, Ron Rivera 6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS, 6-6 O/U, 5-1 if total is 36 points or less.
FAST FACT
Following its Week #1 Lost to the Giants the Bills now stand just 1-11 straight-up and 1-10-1 against the spread versus the National Football Conference during the exhibition season. Buffalo is also 1-10-1 ATS when playing on Fridays.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 16 times, while the favorite covered the spread 12 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 20 times, while the underdog won straight up 11 times. 25 games went under the total, while 17 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 21 times, while the favorite covered first half line 17 times. *No EDGE. 40 games went over first half total, while 39 games went under first half total. *No EDGE.
•SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS: Play Over - Road teams where the first half total is between 18 and 21 (BUFFALO) - off 1 or more consecutive unders.
(59-29 over the last 5 seasons.) (67.0%, +27.1 units. Rating = 2*)
The average first half total posted in these games was: 19
The average first half score in these games was: Team 10.1, Opponent 12.3 (Total first half points scored = 22.4)
The situation's record this season is: (0-0).
Over the last 3 seasons the situation's record is: (28-10).
Over the last 10 seasons the situation's record is: (117-75).
Since 1993 the situation's record is: (286-183).
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#267 TAMPA BAY @ #268 JACKSONVILLE - 7:30 PM
Line: Jaguars -1, Total: 37
The rebuilding Jacksonville Jaguars will open the 2014 preseason on Friday by hosting fellow Sunshine State resident Tampa Bay and its new coach, Lovie Smith. Led by second-year general manager David Caldwell and head coach Gus Bradley, the Jaguars are coming off a 4-12 season in 2013, including four wins in a five game stretch during the second half of the season. The foundation of Jacksonville's rebuilding process has begun to take shape with the headliner being rookie quarterback Blake Bortles, who was taken with the third overall pick in May's draft.
Caldwell also hit free agency hard, bringing in significant contributors at running back (Toby Gerhart), left guard (Zane Beadles) and on the defensive line (Red Bryant, Chris Clemons and Ziggy Hood). Next up is figuring out whether veteran Chad Henne will serve as the bridge at the quarterback position or if Bortles can hit the ground running, and if rookie receivers Marqise Lee or Allen Robinson can at least help alleviate the loss of the very talented Justin Blackmon, who is suspended indefinitely for repeated violations of the league's substance-abuse policy.
"We still have a lot of work to do so you won't see us game prep much for Tampa Bay," Bradley said. "You'll see us go out and get some of these situations done. Try to elevate the level of play through a little bit more reps for the ones, get them acclimated to it. And then be precise on our responsibilities."
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, are a sexy pick by many to be a playoff contender in 2014, especially if veteran free agent quarterback Josh McCown can take advantage of a similar set-up to what he had in Chicago with two very tall receivers (Vincent Jackson and rookie Mike Evans). The 35-year-old McCown is no long-term fix for Tampa, which finished a disappointing 4-12 a year ago, but he proved that he could perform with solid skill-position talent around him with the Bears last year.
The Sam Houston State product really excelled when throwing the jump ball to lengthy receivers like Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett in Chicago and will have a similar setup in Tampa now that the 6-foot-5 Evans and 6-5 rookie tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins will be joining similar-sized veteran Jackson. "He reminds me of Drew (Brees)," Bucs linebacker Jonathan Casillas told WEPN radio in New York when discussing McCown. "Not just the way he throws the ball, but his approach to the game. The first one in, last one out. You know, he's always around. He's very (communicative), very personable. And you can tell he's a born leader."
Defensively Smith came in and quickly asserted that the Bucs' pass rush simply wasn't good enough so the team spent heavily on former Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson, signing the lengthy player to a five-year deal worth $43 million, including $24 million in guaranteed money. The 27-year-old former third-round pick out of Georgia Tech is one of the better two-way ends in football, stellar against the run and solid when chasing the passer. Johnson had 11 1/2 sacks in 2012 before dropping back to just 3 1/2 last year in Mike Zimmer's rotational system. More reps in Smith's scheme should mean bigger numbers for the high-priced Johnson.
"Coach Smith and (defensive coordinator Leslie) Frazier, they're putting together a great defense," Johnson said. "I'm just thankful to be a part of it, and looking forward to all the stuff I can do."
QB ROTATIONS
•Buccaneers: Josh McCown, Mike Glennon, Mike Kafka, Alex Tanney.
•Jaguars: Chad Henne, Blake Bortles, Ricky Stanzi.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Buccaneers: 14-15 ATS Game #1 (0-1 most recent), 22-25 favorite, 29-18 dog, 7-1 dogs versus opponent off straight-up dog win, 12-3 .500 or more off straight-up loss, 0-5 away off SU dog win.
•Jaguars: 7-9 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 21-22 favorite, 19-12 dog, 7-1 off BB straight-up losses, 4-1 home dog’s, 4-0 favorites off straight-up favorite loss, 7-1 away off DD SU win, 8-2 Over/Under L10.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Tampa Bay, Lovie Smith 19-18 SU, 18-18-1 ATS, 20-17 O/U, 5-1 off SU dog win.
•Jacksonville, Gus Bradley 1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS, 2-2 O/U, 0-3 SU/ATS pick or dog.
FAST FACT
According to our NFL database here at WWW.StatSystemsSports.net we find the Jacksonville Jaguars having gone 11-4 Over/Under at home (73% Overs) since the 2006 season. Jacksonville home games have averaged 42.1 PPG in this time frame.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 24 times, while the underdog covered the spread 10 times. *EDGE against the spread =JACKSONVILLE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 29 times, while the underdog won straight up 7 times. 33 games went under the total, while 16 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 32 times, while the underdog covered first half line 25 times. *No EDGE. 44 games went under first half total, while 34 games went over first half total. *No EDGE.
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#269 NEW ORLEANS @ #270 ST LOUIS - 8:00 PM
Line: Rams -3, Total: 38
The high-powered New Orleans Saints begin their quest for another successful campaign on Friday night at the Edward Jones Dome when they open the preseason against what figures to be an improved St. Louis Rams team. The Saints have advanced to the playoffs in four of the past five seasons and are looking to build on last year's 11-5 finish. Despite having little salary-cap room at the beginning of free agency New Orleans was able to bring in a difference maker for the back end of its defense in former Buffalo safety Jairus Byrd.
He, along with fellow safety Kenny Vaccaro and cornerback Keenan Lewis, now give the Saints a host of upper-echelon players in the secondary, meaning defensive coordinator Rob Ryan can get exotic with the pass rush. The Saints do need to replace the production of departed scatback Darren Sproles but head coach Sean Payton is as inventive as it gets and rookie receiver Brandin Cooks should step in as NOLA's new "Where's Waldo" player.
Meanwhile, the team avoided a potential messy situation by signing star tight end Jimmy Graham to a big-money, four-year contract on July 15. "I think the expectations for us as a team are higher," said Payton. "This is another team. There are a handful of new faces that weren't here a year ago. Our goals are set high."
In St. Louis this is likely the make-or-break year for quarterback Sam Bradford, who will be returning from a torn ACL suffered in Week 7 of last season. The fact that Bradford and the Rams play in a division where three teams won 10- or-more games a year ago isn't going to help matters but Jeff Fisher's club figures to have one of the NFL's best fronts on defense and an offense with some pretty impressive pieces if the QB can hold his own water. "It's all about expectations now," said Fisher. "Yes, we have youth, but now there's skill at every position. There's experience there, too."
QB ROTATIONS
•Saints: Drew Brees, Luke McCown, Ryan Griffin.
•Rams: Sam Bradford, Shaun Hill, Austin Davis
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Saints: 18-13 ATS Game #1 (3-0 L3), 21-26 favorite, 35-19 dog, 4-0 dogs off BB straight-up losses, 10-1 versus opponent off straight-up loss under Payton, 7-1 away off DD SU win.
•Rams: 12-18 ATS, Game #1 (0-2 L2), 20-22 favorite, 24-30 dog, 6-1 after scoring 35 or more points, 5-1 versus opponent off BB straight-up and ATS wins, 4-1 away off SU dog win, 1-4 dogs off BB SU losses.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•New Orleans, Sean Payton 16-13 SU, 18-11 ATS, 14-12-3 O/U, 10-1 vs. opponent off SU loss.
•St. Louis, Jeff Fisher 37-35 SU, 36-34-2 ATS, *34-23 O/U, 5-0 dog vs. opponent off SU/ATS win.
FAST FACT
The Saints are s 19-4 ATS in a road game where the total is between 35.5 and 38 points since 1993. Note: This will be only the third preseason meeting between the two old NFC West rivals and the first time they have met since 1967 and 1968, the first two years of existence for the Saints and when the Rams franchise was located in Los Angeles.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 21 times, while the favorite covered the spread 8 times. *EDGE against the spread =NEW ORLEANS. In past games, the underdog won the game straight up 16 times, while the favorite won the game straight up 14 times. 21 games went over the total, while 19 games went under the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 33 times, while the favorite covered first half line 27 times. *No EDGE. 38 games went over first half total, while 18 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
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#271 PHILADELPHIA @ #272 CHICAGO - 8:00 PM
Line: Bears -2, Total: 41.5
The Philadelphia Eagles kick off their preseason slate in the Windy City on Friday as they travel to Soldier Field to take on the Chicago Bears. The Eagles surprised many by finishing 10-6 and winning the NFC East in 2013 under the direction of innovative rookie head coach Chip Kelly. A potential sequel, however, will have to take place without one of the game's best, pure home-run hitters in receiver DeSean Jackson. Jackson, who was coming off a career year, was released in the offseason due to problems with Kelly and the whispers of some nefarious off-the-field behavior but division rival Washington had no issue with quickly picking up the Pro-Bowl selection.
Hindsight will ultimately prove that the Jackson mess was either incredible hubris on Kelly's part or provide further proof that the former Oregon mentor is indeed one of the great offensive minds of this generation. Jeremy Maclin, who is returning from a torn ACL and has been seen limping at times in camp, and the lengthy Riley Cooper will start at receiver for the Birds with rookie second-round pick Jordan Matthews hoping to mix in frequently. None possesses the pure, gamebreaking ability of Jackson, though, so the spacing Kelly craves figures to be a bit more difficult to create this time around.
A second major issue propped up late in June when second-year right tackle Lane Johnson tested positive for a performance- enhancing drug and suspended by the NFL for the first four games of the upcoming season. On the other side of the ball Philadelphia has struggled at safety since former six-time All-Pro Brian Dawkins walked in free agency after the 2008 season. The Eagles feel they finally have a solid presence on the back end, though, after signing former Saints first-round pick Malcolm Jenkins in free agency. "He had the specific skill set that we were looking for," Kelly said. "So he was the No. 1 guy we were looking for in free agency."
That skill set Kelly is speaking of is coverage skills, a necessity for a defense which ranked last in the NFL last season defending the pass, allowing an average of 289.8 yards per game. "It's just about making the calls and eliminating the dumb mistakes to where you (limit) big plays or blown coverage’s," Jenkins said. "That's where I come in, as far as knowing the defense, making the right calls, and getting everybody lined up so then we can go play fast."
Bears general manager Phil Emery spent much of his offseason trying to upgrade a defense which collapsed in 2013, focusing largely on the front four. Chicago bid adieu to veterans Julius Peppers, Henry Melton and Corey Wootton and used free agency to bolster the defensive end position, bringing in veteran pass-rushing star Jared Allen, along with Lamarr Houston and Willie Young. Emery then carpet-bombed defensive tackle in the draft with a pair of early selections, second-rounder Ego Ferguson and third-rounder Will Sutton. Much like last season, though, Chicago will go only as far as its high-powered offense can take it. Little tinkering was done there and rightfully so because the Bears were so explosive on offense last season.
A few issues popped up this week, however. Receiver Marquess Wilson, who was battling for the No. 3 position behind Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery, will be sidelined indefinitely after suffering a fractured right clavicle in Monday's training camp practice. Wilson was hurt when he dove for a pass in the end zone. "Diving for balls is one of the most difficult things not to do when you're a competitive player," Bears coach Marc Trestman said. "We promote it, we talk about it a lot. When a guy goes to make a play on the ball you're not going to be disappointed with him if he doesn't go to the ground.
" Meanwhile star tight end Martellus Bennett was suspended Tuesday for conduct detrimental to the team after an incident in practice in which he slammed rookie cornerback Kyle Fuller to the ground after the first-round pick spun the veteran around on a tackle after a reception. The Eagles and Bears will be meeting in the preseason for just the third time since 1975, with the series tied at one game apiece.
QB ROTATIONS
•Eagles: Nick Foles, Mark Sanchez, Matt Barkley, G.J. Kinne.
•Bears: Jay Cutler, Jordan Palmer, Jimmy Clausen, David Fales.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Eagles: 9-18 ATS Game #1 (1-8 L9), 26-33 favorite, 15-22 dog, 5-1 road favorite’s with revenge, 0-5 home versus opponent off BB straight-up wins, 1-7 favorites off BB SU and ATS wins.
•Bears: 15-14 ATS Game #1 (0-2 L2), 18-26 favorite, 28-25 dog, 5-1 dogs off double-digit straight-up loss, 0-7 favorites off BB SU and ATS losses, 1-5 home versus opponent off SU dog win.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Philadelphia, Chip Kelly 2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS, 3-1 O/U, 2-0 SU/ATS if total is 40 points or more.
•Chicago, Marc Trestman 2-2SU, 1-3 ATS, 3-1 O/U, 0-2 dog.
FAST FACT
Philadelphia has gone a perfect 5-0-1 Over/Under in the last three seasons when playing on the preseason road (47.1 combined PPG). Going back a little further, the numbers for Philly are still consistently strong at 18-9-2 Over/Under (67% Overs) since the 1999 season. Last season, the Eagles road encounters had 55 and 47 total points scored.
--In past games, the favorite covered the spread 11 times, while the underdog covered the spread 9 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 13 times, while the underdog won straight up 8 times. 14 games went over the total, while 3 games went under the total. *EDGE against the total =OVER.
--In past games, the favorite covered first half line 23 times, while the underdog covered first half line 23 times. *No EDGE. 18 games went over first half total, while 6 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
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#273 OAKLAND @ #274 MINNESOTA - 8:00 PM
Line: Vikings -3, Total: 38
A new coach and a new temporary home will be unveiled to the Minnesota Vikings' faithful on Friday. Head coach Mike Zimmer will make his debut with the Vikings as they open the 2014 NFL preseason against the visiting Oakland Raiders. The contest also marks the first game of the Vikings' two-year stay on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The Vikings will play the 2014 and 2015 seasons at TCF Bank Stadium while the team's new stadium is being built downtown at the same site as its previous home, Mall of America Field.
Minnesota, which finished 5-10-1 in 2013, figures to finally sport a 21st- century defense now that Zimmer has taken over the head-coaching duties from Tampa-2 acolyte Leslie Frazier. The real issue with the Vikings, however, remains the game's most important position. The franchise was set back years by 2011 draft bust Christian Ponder. For now, veteran Matt Cassel is the placeholder for rookie first-round pick Teddy Bridgewater, an intriguing prospect who struggled in the pre-draft process but has drawn rave reviews from Minny offensive coordinator Norv Turner during training camp.
Bridgewater, who was once considered a top-five-level prospect, was taken with the 32nd overall pick, a prudent gamble. The Louisville product is the most polished and NFL-ready signal caller from this year's draft class. "There is no pressure on this kid to come in and play," general manger Rick Spielman said. "We're very comfortable with Matt Cassel right now. He'll come in and compete and then the coaches will determine if he's even ready to play this year." On defense Minnesota re-built the front four (re-signing promising pass rusher Everson Griffen and inking ascending nose tackle Linval Joseph, along with underrated swingman Corey Wootton), and addressed cornerback as well (snaring slot star Captain Munnerlyn and the lengthy Derek Cox) in free agency.
Perhaps no team upgraded its overall talent level more than the Raiders, who finished 4-12 in 2013, in the offseason. General manger Reggie McKenzie had a ton of money to spend and he brought in a host of veterans who figure to help, headlined by quarterback Matt Schaub, running back Maurice Jones-Drew, wide receiver James Jones and O- linemen Austin Howard and Kevin Boothe on offense, and defensive linemen Justin Tuck, Antonio Smith and Lamarr Woodley as well as cornerback Carlos Rogers on defense. Add potential rookie linebacking star Khalil Mack to that mix and you can see Oakland is among the most-improved teams in football, at least on paper.
The wheels came off on Schaub during his final season in Houston and it's conceivable the 33-year-old QB's days as a productive starter at this level are over. The Raiders, though, are obviously hoping that last season was the anomaly and that Schaub will return to being the 4,000-yard passer he was in 2012 when the Texans were making a postseason run. "I think every man on the team is counting on him being the guy," veteran safety Charles Woodson told Sirius XM NFL Radio when discussing Schaub. "You know, you bring him over from Houston, and it's been duly noted about the struggles that he had last year. But you can't discount the year that he had before last year so we're looking at last year as being an anomaly and that not being the true Matt Schaub."
QB ROTATIONS
•Raiders: Matt Schaub, Derek Carr, Matt McGloin, Trent Edwards.
•Vikings: Matt Cassel, Christian Ponder, Teddy Bridgewater.
MOST RECENT PRESEASON TRENDS – ALL ATS
•Raiders: 15-15 ATS Game #1 (1-0 most recent), 22-27 favorite, 25-27 dog, 0-7 favorites versus opponent off straight-up favorite loss, 0-4 home after allowing 35 or more points, 1-9 dogs off DD ATS loss.
•Vikings: 17-14 ATS Game #1 (0-3 L3), 28-23 favorite, 27-19 dog, 4-0 dogs versus opponent off BB straight-up wins, 7-1 home off SU loss versus opponent off SU loss, 1-7 away versus opponent off DD SU loss.
TEAM/COACH - SU, ATS, O/U, BEST/WORSE ROLE
•Oakland, Dennis Allen 2-6 SU, 3-5 ATS, 5-3 O/U, 1-4 dog 4 points or more.
•Minnesota, Mike Zimmer no trends available.
FAST FACT
In the last five seasons, the best road Over team has been the Oakland Raiders. Their road games have averaged 44.8 total PPG in the same time span, and the games have gone 9-1 Over/Under (90% Overs). That’s a ‘total reversal’ from 2000-2007, when Raider road games went 3-13 Over/Under Note: This will be the fifth time the Vikings have met the Raiders in the preseason with Minnesota holding a 3-1 advantage in the series.
--In past games, the underdog covered the spread 16 times, while the favorite covered the spread 15 times. *No EDGE. In past games, the favorite won the game straight up 20 times, while the underdog won straight up 12 times. 30 games went under the total, while 23 games went over the total. *No EDGE.
--In past games, the underdog covered first half line 36 times, while the favorite covered first half line 34 times. *No EDGE. 55 games went over first half total, while 26 games went under first half total. *EDGE against first half total =OVER.
