LOGICAL APPROACH
SAN FRANCISCO + 3 over Arizona (Monday) - An Arizona win all but clinches the NFC West Title for a second straight season. The Cardinals were extremely impressive in defeating Minnesota last week at home where they are just 3-3. Arizona has been more impressive on the road where they've won 5 of 6 times this season. The 49ers upset Arizona in week 1 and played their best football in September. But they've dropped 6 of their last 8 to virtually fall out of Playoff contention although they are 4-2 at home. The 49ers figure to put forth their best effort of the season in front of the national Monday night audience. It's a great spot for the 49ers and a potential flat spot for Arizona following their big win over Minnesota. Statistically the teams are fairly even defensively with Arizona having a decided edge on offense. But that edge is largely in the passing game as the Cardinals rushing attack is as weak as San Francisco's. Interestingly, despite the poor but similar raw numbers, the Cardinals are allowing 4.4 yards per carry while the Niners allow just 3.6, second best in the league. And although the Cards have the better QB in Warner, the Niners' Smith has shown great progress since taking over the starting job from Hill earlier this season. He did not play against the Cards in the opening day win. The Niners should make the most of their time in the spotlight in what has turned out to be a slightly more disappointing season than was expected in pre season. San Francisco wins 27-23.
Arizona/San Francisco OVER 44 ½
SAN FRANCISCO + 3 over Arizona (Monday) - An Arizona win all but clinches the NFC West Title for a second straight season. The Cardinals were extremely impressive in defeating Minnesota last week at home where they are just 3-3. Arizona has been more impressive on the road where they've won 5 of 6 times this season. The 49ers upset Arizona in week 1 and played their best football in September. But they've dropped 6 of their last 8 to virtually fall out of Playoff contention although they are 4-2 at home. The 49ers figure to put forth their best effort of the season in front of the national Monday night audience. It's a great spot for the 49ers and a potential flat spot for Arizona following their big win over Minnesota. Statistically the teams are fairly even defensively with Arizona having a decided edge on offense. But that edge is largely in the passing game as the Cardinals rushing attack is as weak as San Francisco's. Interestingly, despite the poor but similar raw numbers, the Cardinals are allowing 4.4 yards per carry while the Niners allow just 3.6, second best in the league. And although the Cards have the better QB in Warner, the Niners' Smith has shown great progress since taking over the starting job from Hill earlier this season. He did not play against the Cards in the opening day win. The Niners should make the most of their time in the spotlight in what has turned out to be a slightly more disappointing season than was expected in pre season. San Francisco wins 27-23.
Arizona/San Francisco OVER 44 ½
Pick 'n' Roll: Today's best NBA bets
New Orleans Hornets at Dallas Mavericks (-8.5, 193.5)
It’s funny what a contract year can do for a player’s productivity in the NBA. Erick Dampier enjoyed his finest pro season in the final year of a contract back in 2003-04.
Dallas swooped in and signed the big man to a huge seven-year deal. Of course he’s enjoying his finest season since then this year and will be a free agent this summer.
He’s averaging 17 points, 17.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks over the last two games, which has been appreciated by his teammates.
“The big fella has to play, plain and simple,” Jason Terry told The Dallas Morning News after a 13-point win over Miami on Friday. “We got to have Erick Dampier on the court. I don’t care what team we’re playing against – big lineup, little lineup, what have you. He has to be out there.
“He’s having an outstanding year, and whatever we have to do to keep him out there, we have to do.”
The Mavs don’t know what they can get from Josh Howard on a night to night basis, but they can rely on Dampier for rebounding and interior defense, at least for this year.
Pick: Dallas
Golden State at Philadelphia (+3.5, 210)
Just call Golden State the ''Road'' Warriors. Unfortunately for them, they are showing signs of home sickness.
The Warriors are on the final game of a five-game, seven-day road trip that zigged and zagged its way across the USA, from Oklahoma City to New Jersey to Chicago to Detroit and finally back in Philly.
Looks like a flight itinerary from a discount airline, and the Warriors needed their automatic time-zone changers on their cell phones. It's the kind of trip that can make or break team chemistry, and this one appears to be having the latter affect on Golden State.
Two Warriors went down with injuries Saturday night - center Andris Biedrins (groin) and forward Ronny Turiaf (knee), who are out indefinitely. Sure, it's only 8.3 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, but they make a total of six Warriors sitting on the sidelines.
Too bad they are playing the Sixers or this one might be a lock. How can you trust a team that's lost 10 straight to cover against any team, even one as road weary as the Warriors?
You can't, but with both teams struggling on offense there is one smart play. The Warriors have gone under the total on all four games on this road trip and the Sixers have gone under in their three previous home games.
Just root for defense, or for a lack of offense.
Pick: Under 210
New Orleans Hornets at Dallas Mavericks (-8.5, 193.5)
It’s funny what a contract year can do for a player’s productivity in the NBA. Erick Dampier enjoyed his finest pro season in the final year of a contract back in 2003-04.
Dallas swooped in and signed the big man to a huge seven-year deal. Of course he’s enjoying his finest season since then this year and will be a free agent this summer.
He’s averaging 17 points, 17.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks over the last two games, which has been appreciated by his teammates.
“The big fella has to play, plain and simple,” Jason Terry told The Dallas Morning News after a 13-point win over Miami on Friday. “We got to have Erick Dampier on the court. I don’t care what team we’re playing against – big lineup, little lineup, what have you. He has to be out there.
“He’s having an outstanding year, and whatever we have to do to keep him out there, we have to do.”
The Mavs don’t know what they can get from Josh Howard on a night to night basis, but they can rely on Dampier for rebounding and interior defense, at least for this year.
Pick: Dallas
Golden State at Philadelphia (+3.5, 210)
Just call Golden State the ''Road'' Warriors. Unfortunately for them, they are showing signs of home sickness.
The Warriors are on the final game of a five-game, seven-day road trip that zigged and zagged its way across the USA, from Oklahoma City to New Jersey to Chicago to Detroit and finally back in Philly.
Looks like a flight itinerary from a discount airline, and the Warriors needed their automatic time-zone changers on their cell phones. It's the kind of trip that can make or break team chemistry, and this one appears to be having the latter affect on Golden State.
Two Warriors went down with injuries Saturday night - center Andris Biedrins (groin) and forward Ronny Turiaf (knee), who are out indefinitely. Sure, it's only 8.3 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, but they make a total of six Warriors sitting on the sidelines.
Too bad they are playing the Sixers or this one might be a lock. How can you trust a team that's lost 10 straight to cover against any team, even one as road weary as the Warriors?
You can't, but with both teams struggling on offense there is one smart play. The Warriors have gone under the total on all four games on this road trip and the Sixers have gone under in their three previous home games.
Just root for defense, or for a lack of offense.
Pick: Under 210
Ice picks: Today's best NHL bets
Ottawa Senators at Toronto Maple Leafs (-140, 6)
Don’t look now but the Maple Leafs, once at the bottom of the league in points, are now 7-3 over their last 10 games.
Toronto’s offense is the catalyst for the turnaround. The Buds have scored 16 goals in their last four games and the over is 5-1 in their last six.
The top line of Phil Kessel, Matt Stajan and Alexei Ponikarovsky has built some nice chemistry. The trio combined for four goals and four assists in Toronto’s 6-3 win over Washington on Saturday.
The Sens have gone 3-1 since snapping a four-game skid. Ottawa backers were ecstatic to see winger Alex Kovalev break out of his scoring slump with a hat trick against the Hurricanes. Before Saturday’s outburst, Kovalev hadn’t slipped one past goalie since Oct. 29.
Kovalev is a streaky player and if he can stay active for the next week or so, Ottawa’s offense should benefit.
Pick: Over
Los Angeles Kings at Vancouver Canucks (-180, 5.5)
If you check out the Western Conference standings you’ll see one team at the top that might shock you. The Kings a tied for the most points (45) and have the most wins (21) in the West. That’s a huge improvement for a club that had just 79 points and 34 wins a season ago.
“We don’t want to get too cocky, too ahead of ourselves,” forward Justin Williams told the L.A. Daily News. “We’re playing decent. We don’t think we’ve reach our potential.”
The Kings are coming off two narrow victories and will be playing their fourth game in six nights. Expect a letdown Monday night in Vancouver.
Pick: Canucks
Ottawa Senators at Toronto Maple Leafs (-140, 6)
Don’t look now but the Maple Leafs, once at the bottom of the league in points, are now 7-3 over their last 10 games.
Toronto’s offense is the catalyst for the turnaround. The Buds have scored 16 goals in their last four games and the over is 5-1 in their last six.
The top line of Phil Kessel, Matt Stajan and Alexei Ponikarovsky has built some nice chemistry. The trio combined for four goals and four assists in Toronto’s 6-3 win over Washington on Saturday.
The Sens have gone 3-1 since snapping a four-game skid. Ottawa backers were ecstatic to see winger Alex Kovalev break out of his scoring slump with a hat trick against the Hurricanes. Before Saturday’s outburst, Kovalev hadn’t slipped one past goalie since Oct. 29.
Kovalev is a streaky player and if he can stay active for the next week or so, Ottawa’s offense should benefit.
Pick: Over
Los Angeles Kings at Vancouver Canucks (-180, 5.5)
If you check out the Western Conference standings you’ll see one team at the top that might shock you. The Kings a tied for the most points (45) and have the most wins (21) in the West. That’s a huge improvement for a club that had just 79 points and 34 wins a season ago.
“We don’t want to get too cocky, too ahead of ourselves,” forward Justin Williams told the L.A. Daily News. “We’re playing decent. We don’t think we’ve reach our potential.”
The Kings are coming off two narrow victories and will be playing their fourth game in six nights. Expect a letdown Monday night in Vancouver.
Pick: Canucks
THE SPORTS ADVISORS
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
NFL
Arizona (8-4 SU and ATS) at San Francisco (5-7, 7-3-2 ATS)
The Cardinals head to Candlestick Park in San Francisco looking to clinch a playoff spot and their second straight NFC West title with a victory over the 49ers.
Arizona is coming off last week’s dominating 30-17 rout of NFC North-leading Minnesota. Quarterback Kurt Warner threw for 285 yards and three TDs with big days from WRs Anquan Boldin (seven catches, 98 yards, two TDs) and Larry Fitzgerald (eight catches, 143 yards, one TD). The Arizona offense is ranked fifth in the NFL, averaging 266.8 yards a game, however the defense – despite last week’s strong effort against the Vikings – is ranked 24th, giving up 363 yards per contest.
San Francisco has alternated wins and losses in each of its last five games (2-2-1 ATS), coming up short in Seattle last weekend 20-17 as a one-point favorite. QB Alex Smith threw for a career-best 310 yards with two TDs against the Seahawks, but the offense is still ranked 28th in the league, managing just 285.4 total ypg.
The 49ers opened this season with a 20-16 victory at Arizona as a 5½-point underdog. However, Arizona swept the season series last year, including a 23-13 season-opening win in San Francisco as a one-point favorite. The visitor has cashed in eight straight meetings in this rivalry, and the Cardinals are 4-0 ATS in their last four trips to northern California.
Arizona is on a plethora of positive ATS runs, including 4-1 overall, 6-1 on the road, 9-3 against NFC teams, 8-3 against division foes and 8-3 after a spread-cover. San Francisco is riding ATS streaks of 10-4-3 overall, 6-2-1 at home, 15-5 on Monday, 6-0-2 as an underdog and 5-2 against NFC West rivals.
The Cardinals have topped the posted total in 14 of 17 December games and 37 of 53 games against teams with losing records, but they are on “under” streaks of 7-3 overall, 4-1 on the highway and 4-0 as a road favorite. The Niners are on “under” streaks of 5-1 in December, 9-3 as a home ‘dog and 5-0 in NFC West games.
Finally, the last five Monday Night Football contests have stayed under the total, following a 19-5-1 “over” stretch on Mondays.
ATS ADVANTAGE: ARIZONA and UNDER
NBA
Oklahoma City (12-10, 13-9 ATS) at Denver (17-7, 13-11 ATS)
The Nuggets will try to make it five in a row over the Thunder when they welcome their Northwest Division rivals to the Pepsi Center.
Oklahoma City has won five of their last eight (SU and ATS), but dropped a 102-89 decision to the Cavaliers on Sunday in Oklahoma City, failing as 3½-point home underdogs. The Thunder have won consecutive roadies, including Friday’s 102-94 victory at Memphis as a two-point ‘dog.
Denver has dropped two of its last three (0-3 ATS), but rallied for a 105-99 win over the Suns on Saturday, coming up short as a nine-point home favorite. The Nuggets are 10-1 (7-4 ATS) in front of the home fans this season, where they average 116.1 points a game and shoot 49.5 percent from the floor.
The Nuggets swept the four-game season series from Oklahoma City last year, but the Thunder got the cash in each of the four games and are 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings (all as an underdog). In the two contests at the Pepsi Center, Denver prevailed 112-99 (coming up short as a 13½-point favorite) and 122-112 (falling short as a 13-point chalk). The winner has scored a minimum of 112 points in each of the last nine meetings.
The Thunder are on ATS runs of 5-2 on the road and 6-1 on Monday, while Denver comes in on ATS streaks of 15-6 at home, 36-17 against Western Conference teams and 7-0 on Monday.
Oklahoma City has stayed below the posted total in four of five against Western Conference teams and five of six on Monday, but it is on “over” runs of 9-4-1 overall, 10-4-1 on the road and 5-1 when playing the second night of a back-to-back. Denver has topped the total in four of five against teams with winning records, but it is on “under” streaks of 4-1 after getting a day off, 5-2 at home and 5-1 against Western Conference teams.
Finally, the over is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings between these two and 4-0 in the past four clashes in Denver.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
NFL
Arizona (8-4 SU and ATS) at San Francisco (5-7, 7-3-2 ATS)
The Cardinals head to Candlestick Park in San Francisco looking to clinch a playoff spot and their second straight NFC West title with a victory over the 49ers.
Arizona is coming off last week’s dominating 30-17 rout of NFC North-leading Minnesota. Quarterback Kurt Warner threw for 285 yards and three TDs with big days from WRs Anquan Boldin (seven catches, 98 yards, two TDs) and Larry Fitzgerald (eight catches, 143 yards, one TD). The Arizona offense is ranked fifth in the NFL, averaging 266.8 yards a game, however the defense – despite last week’s strong effort against the Vikings – is ranked 24th, giving up 363 yards per contest.
San Francisco has alternated wins and losses in each of its last five games (2-2-1 ATS), coming up short in Seattle last weekend 20-17 as a one-point favorite. QB Alex Smith threw for a career-best 310 yards with two TDs against the Seahawks, but the offense is still ranked 28th in the league, managing just 285.4 total ypg.
The 49ers opened this season with a 20-16 victory at Arizona as a 5½-point underdog. However, Arizona swept the season series last year, including a 23-13 season-opening win in San Francisco as a one-point favorite. The visitor has cashed in eight straight meetings in this rivalry, and the Cardinals are 4-0 ATS in their last four trips to northern California.
Arizona is on a plethora of positive ATS runs, including 4-1 overall, 6-1 on the road, 9-3 against NFC teams, 8-3 against division foes and 8-3 after a spread-cover. San Francisco is riding ATS streaks of 10-4-3 overall, 6-2-1 at home, 15-5 on Monday, 6-0-2 as an underdog and 5-2 against NFC West rivals.
The Cardinals have topped the posted total in 14 of 17 December games and 37 of 53 games against teams with losing records, but they are on “under” streaks of 7-3 overall, 4-1 on the highway and 4-0 as a road favorite. The Niners are on “under” streaks of 5-1 in December, 9-3 as a home ‘dog and 5-0 in NFC West games.
Finally, the last five Monday Night Football contests have stayed under the total, following a 19-5-1 “over” stretch on Mondays.
ATS ADVANTAGE: ARIZONA and UNDER
NBA
Oklahoma City (12-10, 13-9 ATS) at Denver (17-7, 13-11 ATS)
The Nuggets will try to make it five in a row over the Thunder when they welcome their Northwest Division rivals to the Pepsi Center.
Oklahoma City has won five of their last eight (SU and ATS), but dropped a 102-89 decision to the Cavaliers on Sunday in Oklahoma City, failing as 3½-point home underdogs. The Thunder have won consecutive roadies, including Friday’s 102-94 victory at Memphis as a two-point ‘dog.
Denver has dropped two of its last three (0-3 ATS), but rallied for a 105-99 win over the Suns on Saturday, coming up short as a nine-point home favorite. The Nuggets are 10-1 (7-4 ATS) in front of the home fans this season, where they average 116.1 points a game and shoot 49.5 percent from the floor.
The Nuggets swept the four-game season series from Oklahoma City last year, but the Thunder got the cash in each of the four games and are 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings (all as an underdog). In the two contests at the Pepsi Center, Denver prevailed 112-99 (coming up short as a 13½-point favorite) and 122-112 (falling short as a 13-point chalk). The winner has scored a minimum of 112 points in each of the last nine meetings.
The Thunder are on ATS runs of 5-2 on the road and 6-1 on Monday, while Denver comes in on ATS streaks of 15-6 at home, 36-17 against Western Conference teams and 7-0 on Monday.
Oklahoma City has stayed below the posted total in four of five against Western Conference teams and five of six on Monday, but it is on “over” runs of 9-4-1 overall, 10-4-1 on the road and 5-1 when playing the second night of a back-to-back. Denver has topped the total in four of five against teams with winning records, but it is on “under” streaks of 4-1 after getting a day off, 5-2 at home and 5-1 against Western Conference teams.
Finally, the over is 20-7 in the last 27 meetings between these two and 4-0 in the past four clashes in Denver.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
Al DeMarco
Monday's Play
20 Dime - Arizona
As you know, I went against San Francisco last Sunday, backing Seattle as a one-point home dog against the Niners, picking up an additional 15 dimes for our bankroll when the Seahawks kicked a game-winning field goal as time expired to escape with the 20-17 triumph. But truth be told, I was lucky to get the win because San Fran outplayed the 'Hawks from start to finish, outgaining them in total yards 356-292, but repeated redzone failures and turnovers resulted in missed scoring opportunities that ultimately cost the Niners the game. The irony is that was only the second time in an eight-game stretch where San Francisco had outgained its opponent.
While the Niners were losing again on the road, Arizona was scoring its most impressive victory of the season in a 30-17 upset of visiting Minnesota as Kurt Warner completed 22-of-32 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns. In his last 14 quarters of action, Warner has hit 72% of his passes for 1089 yards and 12 TDs with zero interceptions.
Even more impressive than Warner's outing was the performance of the Cardinal defense as it stuffed Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, holding him to a season-low 19 yards on 13 carries. It also picked off Favre twice and sacked him three times.
This is a revenge game for Arizona as it was upset 20-16 as a 5 1/2-point home chalk in the season-opener for both teams. The Cardinals fell behind by 10 early, rebounded to take a 16-13 lead early in the fourth quarter, but watched Shaun Hill direct a 15-play, 80-yard scoring drive with 7 1/2 minutes to play for the game-winning score. Ironically, the Niners went three-and-out in their other five second-half possessions in that contest.
Arizona basically shot itself in its collective foot in the first go-round, committing 12 penalties for 82 yards while offering spotty pass protection for Warner, who was sacked three times and intercepted twice. While the Cardinals have since rebounded and soared as the season progressed, the Niners are a different team that's taking the field in today's rematch. Shaun Hill is out at quarterback; Alex Smith is in. And the Niners are no longer a running team as they've switched to a spread attack rather than rely just on Frank Gore (22 carries, 30 yards in first meeting) to move the chains.
The Cards have been a great play on the road this year - when Warner has been healthy. In those games, they're 4-0 SU and ATS. At St. Louis, they were up big but once Warner left with an injury they held on for the win but failed to cover. At Tennessee, where Warner was sidelined by a concussion, they lost outright. Still, they're on runs of 7-2 SU and 6-3 ATS entering this game in a series where the road team has reeled off 10 straight covers.
You know as well as I that the Niners have been a strong dog play under Mike Singletary, but that is generally with them getting more points than what they're getting tonight. And considering how this team has struggled to get into the redzone of late (10 points at home vs. Chicago, 17 at Seattle) - and how well the Arizona defense has played in recent weeks - I think this is a bargain price to be laying with the Cardinals, who are playing with extreme confidence after knocking off the Vikings last week and have excelled all season on the road when Warner has been healthy.
In terms of Monday night trends, the favorite has taken the cash four of the past five weeks, and road teams are on a 5-3 ATS run. On the other hand, many will point out that San Francisco sports one of the best Monday night home pointspread records around at 19-8-3, but I note that most of those victories came with guys named Montana and Young at quarterback, not Smith. And those Niner teams knew how to exploit redzone opportunities while this year's edition does not.
Don't expect a high-scoring game here, but a solid win by the Cardinals, who do just enough to escape with a 24-17 win in revenge.
Strategy Note:
The price of this game has held steady at 3 1/2 all week long as I release it around 6:00 P.M. Eastern Sunday night. Naturally I want you to buy down the 1/2 point on Arizona - even if the line goes to -4 or -4 1/2.
Monday's Play
20 Dime - Arizona
As you know, I went against San Francisco last Sunday, backing Seattle as a one-point home dog against the Niners, picking up an additional 15 dimes for our bankroll when the Seahawks kicked a game-winning field goal as time expired to escape with the 20-17 triumph. But truth be told, I was lucky to get the win because San Fran outplayed the 'Hawks from start to finish, outgaining them in total yards 356-292, but repeated redzone failures and turnovers resulted in missed scoring opportunities that ultimately cost the Niners the game. The irony is that was only the second time in an eight-game stretch where San Francisco had outgained its opponent.
While the Niners were losing again on the road, Arizona was scoring its most impressive victory of the season in a 30-17 upset of visiting Minnesota as Kurt Warner completed 22-of-32 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns. In his last 14 quarters of action, Warner has hit 72% of his passes for 1089 yards and 12 TDs with zero interceptions.
Even more impressive than Warner's outing was the performance of the Cardinal defense as it stuffed Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, holding him to a season-low 19 yards on 13 carries. It also picked off Favre twice and sacked him three times.
This is a revenge game for Arizona as it was upset 20-16 as a 5 1/2-point home chalk in the season-opener for both teams. The Cardinals fell behind by 10 early, rebounded to take a 16-13 lead early in the fourth quarter, but watched Shaun Hill direct a 15-play, 80-yard scoring drive with 7 1/2 minutes to play for the game-winning score. Ironically, the Niners went three-and-out in their other five second-half possessions in that contest.
Arizona basically shot itself in its collective foot in the first go-round, committing 12 penalties for 82 yards while offering spotty pass protection for Warner, who was sacked three times and intercepted twice. While the Cardinals have since rebounded and soared as the season progressed, the Niners are a different team that's taking the field in today's rematch. Shaun Hill is out at quarterback; Alex Smith is in. And the Niners are no longer a running team as they've switched to a spread attack rather than rely just on Frank Gore (22 carries, 30 yards in first meeting) to move the chains.
The Cards have been a great play on the road this year - when Warner has been healthy. In those games, they're 4-0 SU and ATS. At St. Louis, they were up big but once Warner left with an injury they held on for the win but failed to cover. At Tennessee, where Warner was sidelined by a concussion, they lost outright. Still, they're on runs of 7-2 SU and 6-3 ATS entering this game in a series where the road team has reeled off 10 straight covers.
You know as well as I that the Niners have been a strong dog play under Mike Singletary, but that is generally with them getting more points than what they're getting tonight. And considering how this team has struggled to get into the redzone of late (10 points at home vs. Chicago, 17 at Seattle) - and how well the Arizona defense has played in recent weeks - I think this is a bargain price to be laying with the Cardinals, who are playing with extreme confidence after knocking off the Vikings last week and have excelled all season on the road when Warner has been healthy.
In terms of Monday night trends, the favorite has taken the cash four of the past five weeks, and road teams are on a 5-3 ATS run. On the other hand, many will point out that San Francisco sports one of the best Monday night home pointspread records around at 19-8-3, but I note that most of those victories came with guys named Montana and Young at quarterback, not Smith. And those Niner teams knew how to exploit redzone opportunities while this year's edition does not.
Don't expect a high-scoring game here, but a solid win by the Cardinals, who do just enough to escape with a 24-17 win in revenge.
Strategy Note:
The price of this game has held steady at 3 1/2 all week long as I release it around 6:00 P.M. Eastern Sunday night. Naturally I want you to buy down the 1/2 point on Arizona - even if the line goes to -4 or -4 1/2.
DUNKEL NHL
Phoenix at Detroit
The Coyotes are coming off a 2-1 win over San Jose and look to build on their 6-1 record in their last 7 games after allowing 2 goals or less in the previous game. Phoenix is the pick (+160) according to Dunkel, which has the Coyotes favored by 1/2 a goal. Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (+160). Here are all of today's picks.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. EST
Game 1-2: Florida at NY Islanders
Dunkel Ratings: Florida 11.106; NY Islanders 11.499
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: NY Islanders (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (-145); Over
Game 3-4: Atlanta at NY Rangers
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 10.683; NY Rangers 10.706
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Rangers by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: NY Rangers (-140); 6
Dunkel Pick: NY Rangers (-140); Under
Game 5-6: Nashville at Columbus
Dunkel Ratings: Nashville 11.301; Columbus 10.519
Dunkel Line & Total: Nashville by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Columbus (-130); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Nashville (+120); Over
Game 7-8: Ottawa at Toronto
Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 12.389; Toronto 11.825
Dunkel Line & Total: Ottawa by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-135); 6
Dunkel Pick: Ottawa (+125); Under
Game 9-10: Philadelphia at Boston
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 11.137; Boston 11.588
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-145); Under
Game 11-12: Buffalo at Montreal
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 12.011; Montreal 11.983
Dunkel Line & Total: Buffalo by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Buffalo (-130); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (-130); Under
Game 13-14: Phoenix at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Phoenix 12.146; Detroit 11.478
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit (-170); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (+160); Over
Game 15-16: Los Angeles at Vancouver
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 12.383; Vancouver 12.846
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Vancouver (-175); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Vancouver (-175); Over
Phoenix at Detroit
The Coyotes are coming off a 2-1 win over San Jose and look to build on their 6-1 record in their last 7 games after allowing 2 goals or less in the previous game. Phoenix is the pick (+160) according to Dunkel, which has the Coyotes favored by 1/2 a goal. Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (+160). Here are all of today's picks.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. EST
Game 1-2: Florida at NY Islanders
Dunkel Ratings: Florida 11.106; NY Islanders 11.499
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Islanders by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: NY Islanders (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Islanders (-145); Over
Game 3-4: Atlanta at NY Rangers
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta 10.683; NY Rangers 10.706
Dunkel Line & Total: NY Rangers by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: NY Rangers (-140); 6
Dunkel Pick: NY Rangers (-140); Under
Game 5-6: Nashville at Columbus
Dunkel Ratings: Nashville 11.301; Columbus 10.519
Dunkel Line & Total: Nashville by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Columbus (-130); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Nashville (+120); Over
Game 7-8: Ottawa at Toronto
Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 12.389; Toronto 11.825
Dunkel Line & Total: Ottawa by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-135); 6
Dunkel Pick: Ottawa (+125); Under
Game 9-10: Philadelphia at Boston
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 11.137; Boston 11.588
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 1/2; 4 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-145); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-145); Under
Game 11-12: Buffalo at Montreal
Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 12.011; Montreal 11.983
Dunkel Line & Total: Buffalo by 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Buffalo (-130); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (-130); Under
Game 13-14: Phoenix at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Phoenix 12.146; Detroit 11.478
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Detroit (-170); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Phoenix (+160); Over
Game 15-16: Los Angeles at Vancouver
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 12.383; Vancouver 12.846
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Vancouver (-175); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Vancouver (-175); Over
DCI
Season: 165-111 (.598)
BOSTON 3, Philadelphia 2
Ottawa vs. TORONTO: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Florida vs. N.Y. ISLANDERS: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
N.Y. RANGERS 3, Atlanta 2
Nashville vs. COLUMBUS: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Buffalo vs. MONTREAL: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
DETROIT 2, Phoenix 1
Los Angeles vs. VANCOUVER: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Season: 165-111 (.598)
BOSTON 3, Philadelphia 2
Ottawa vs. TORONTO: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Florida vs. N.Y. ISLANDERS: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
N.Y. RANGERS 3, Atlanta 2
Nashville vs. COLUMBUS: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Buffalo vs. MONTREAL: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
DETROIT 2, Phoenix 1
Los Angeles vs. VANCOUVER: TOO CLOSE TO CALL
DUNKEL NBA
Minnesota at Utah
The Timberwolves look to build on their 7-1 ATS record in their last 8 games as an underdog. Minnesota is the pick (+13) according to Dunkel, which has the Jazz favored by only 11. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+13). Here are all of today's picks.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. EST
Game 501-502: Indiana at Orlando
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 111.729; Orlando 125.563
Dunkel Line & Total: Orlando by 14; 206
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A
Game 503-504: Golden State at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Golden State 114.511; Philadelphia 116.058
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia by 4; 209 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Golden State (+4); Under
Game 505-506: Boston at Memphis
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 125.323; Memphis 120.466
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 5; 202
Vegas Line & Total: Boston by 9; 194 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (+9); Over
Game 507-508: New Orleans at Dallas
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 113.723; Dallas 123.861
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 10; 187
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas by 8; 196
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (-8); Under
Game 509-510: Minnesota at Utah
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 112.005; Utah 122.844
Dunkel Line & Total: Utah by 11; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Utah by 13; 200 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+13); Under
Game 511-512: Oklahoma City at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 118.318; Denver 123.878
Dunkel Line & Total: Denver by 5 1/2; 212
Vegas Line & Total: Denver by 10 1/2; 207 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (+10 1/2); Over
Game 513-514: Washington at LA Clippers
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 114.447; LA Clippers 116.224
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 2; 190
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A
Minnesota at Utah
The Timberwolves look to build on their 7-1 ATS record in their last 8 games as an underdog. Minnesota is the pick (+13) according to Dunkel, which has the Jazz favored by only 11. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+13). Here are all of today's picks.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 14
Time Posted: 7:30 a.m. EST
Game 501-502: Indiana at Orlando
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 111.729; Orlando 125.563
Dunkel Line & Total: Orlando by 14; 206
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A
Game 503-504: Golden State at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Golden State 114.511; Philadelphia 116.058
Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1 1/2; 198
Vegas Line & Total: Philadelphia by 4; 209 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Golden State (+4); Under
Game 505-506: Boston at Memphis
Dunkel Ratings: Boston 125.323; Memphis 120.466
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 5; 202
Vegas Line & Total: Boston by 9; 194 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (+9); Over
Game 507-508: New Orleans at Dallas
Dunkel Ratings: New Orleans 113.723; Dallas 123.861
Dunkel Line & Total: Dallas by 10; 187
Vegas Line & Total: Dallas by 8; 196
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (-8); Under
Game 509-510: Minnesota at Utah
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 112.005; Utah 122.844
Dunkel Line & Total: Utah by 11; 195
Vegas Line & Total: Utah by 13; 200 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+13); Under
Game 511-512: Oklahoma City at Denver
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma City 118.318; Denver 123.878
Dunkel Line & Total: Denver by 5 1/2; 212
Vegas Line & Total: Denver by 10 1/2; 207 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma City (+10 1/2); Over
Game 513-514: Washington at LA Clippers
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 114.447; LA Clippers 116.224
Dunkel Line & Total: LA Clippers by 2; 190
Vegas Line & Total: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A
Brandon Lang
NOTE:
Really felt good about a 4-0 sweep yesterday, but the Bengals just couldn't hang.
Indy did exactly what I thought they would. Jets did exactly as I thought they would. Eagles did exactly what I thought they would.
Unfortunately, the Bengals didn't but I won't complain about 3-1 NFL Sundays ever. In fact, I will gladly take 3-1 NFL Sundays for the rest of my career.
With the winning day yesterday I've quietly won 5 of the last 7 Sundays as I continue to finish this NFL season strong on Sundays.
Now it's time to build off another winning Sunday with my 5th Monday night winner in the last 7 weeks as well.
10 DIME - SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS - Simply put, getting 3 1/2 to 4 points in what I feel is a field goal game is the way to go in this game tonight.
Arizona looked fantastic manhandling the Vikings last Sunday night, and now face their division rival by the bay in what has been a very competitive series as of late.
Niners went down to Arizona week one and figured out a way to get the 20-16 win in a game they were dominated in but on the flip side of that the Cardinals were without Boldin or Breaston.
Now at full strength with exception of running back Hightower a big banged up, Arizona looks to continue their late season momentum against a team they are very familiar with.
What makes the underdog tonight very appealing to me is the fact they threw the ball at Seattle 21 of their first 25 plays last week which tells me San Francisco is very comfortable having Smith throw to Davis and Crabtree.
The Niners have been great at home all year long with exception of the Falcons and the Titans, the latter of the two slipping away late in the 4th quarter.
Fact of the matter is the underdog in Arizona Cardinal games this year has gone 9-3 ATS, and that tells me not only do they play down to their competition when favored, they don't put teams away when laying points as well.
I just don't see this home dog not showing up on Monday night and giving the Cardinals all they can handle and if you are going to attack this Cardinals defense, it has to be thru the air because their run defense is just too good.
As always I see these two playing a close game and I see it coming down to a field goal game and with that being the case, value is taking the points.
FREE SELECTION - GEORGIA TECH YELLOW JACKETS
NOTE:
Really felt good about a 4-0 sweep yesterday, but the Bengals just couldn't hang.
Indy did exactly what I thought they would. Jets did exactly as I thought they would. Eagles did exactly what I thought they would.
Unfortunately, the Bengals didn't but I won't complain about 3-1 NFL Sundays ever. In fact, I will gladly take 3-1 NFL Sundays for the rest of my career.
With the winning day yesterday I've quietly won 5 of the last 7 Sundays as I continue to finish this NFL season strong on Sundays.
Now it's time to build off another winning Sunday with my 5th Monday night winner in the last 7 weeks as well.
10 DIME - SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS - Simply put, getting 3 1/2 to 4 points in what I feel is a field goal game is the way to go in this game tonight.
Arizona looked fantastic manhandling the Vikings last Sunday night, and now face their division rival by the bay in what has been a very competitive series as of late.
Niners went down to Arizona week one and figured out a way to get the 20-16 win in a game they were dominated in but on the flip side of that the Cardinals were without Boldin or Breaston.
Now at full strength with exception of running back Hightower a big banged up, Arizona looks to continue their late season momentum against a team they are very familiar with.
What makes the underdog tonight very appealing to me is the fact they threw the ball at Seattle 21 of their first 25 plays last week which tells me San Francisco is very comfortable having Smith throw to Davis and Crabtree.
The Niners have been great at home all year long with exception of the Falcons and the Titans, the latter of the two slipping away late in the 4th quarter.
Fact of the matter is the underdog in Arizona Cardinal games this year has gone 9-3 ATS, and that tells me not only do they play down to their competition when favored, they don't put teams away when laying points as well.
I just don't see this home dog not showing up on Monday night and giving the Cardinals all they can handle and if you are going to attack this Cardinals defense, it has to be thru the air because their run defense is just too good.
As always I see these two playing a close game and I see it coming down to a field goal game and with that being the case, value is taking the points.
FREE SELECTION - GEORGIA TECH YELLOW JACKETS
