Today's NHL Picks
Pittsburgh at Dallas
The Penguins head to Dallas tonight to face a Stars team that is 1-7 in its last 8 games versus Eastern Conference opponents. Pittsburgh is the pick (-145) according to Dunkel, which has the Penguins favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-145). Here are all of today's picks.
Pittsburgh at Dallas
The Penguins head to Dallas tonight to face a Stars team that is 1-7 in its last 8 games versus Eastern Conference opponents. Pittsburgh is the pick (-145) according to Dunkel, which has the Penguins favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-145). Here are all of today's picks.
| SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. EST |
| Game 51-52: St. Louis at NY Islanders (1:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 12.293; NY Islanders 10.878 Dunkel Line & Total: St. Louis by 1 1/2; 5 Vegas Line & Total: St. Louis (-150); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-150); Under |
| Game 53-54: Boston at Philadelphia (1:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Boston 11.155; Philadelphia 12.231 Dunkel Line & Total: Philadelphia by 1; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-115); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-105); Over |
| Game 55-56: Toronto at Winnipeg (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Toronto 12.367; Winnipeg 11.272 Dunkel Line & Total: Toronto by 1; 5 Vegas Line & Total: Winnipeg (-140); 6 Dunkel Pick: Toronto (+120); Under |
| Game 57-58: Buffalo at Columbus (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Buffalo 10.379; Columbus 12.819 Dunkel Line & Total: Columbus by 2 1/2; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Columbus (-210); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Columbus (-210); Over |
| Game 59-60: Washington at Montreal (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Washington 10.463; Montreal 9.566 Dunkel Line & Total: Washington by 1; 4 1/2 Vegas Line & Total: No Line Dunkel Pick: N/A |
| Game 61-62: Colorado at Tampa Bay (7:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Colorado 11.221; Tampa Bay 12.675 Dunkel Line & Total: Tampa Bay by 1 1/2; 6 1/2 Vegas Line & Total: Tampa Bay (-145); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-145); Over |
| Game 63-64: Pittsburgh at Dallas (8:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 11.861; Dallas 10.170 Dunkel Line & Total: Pittsburgh by 1 1/2; 5 Vegas Line & Total: Pittsburgh (-145); 6 Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-145); Under |
| Game 65-66: Anaheim at Los Angeles (9:30 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Anaheim 11.192; Los Angeles 12.419 Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 1; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Anaheim (-115); 5 Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-105); Over |
| Game 67-68: Minnesota at San Jose (10:30 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 10.394; San Jose 12.042 Dunkel Line & Total: San Jose by 1 1/2; 4 Vegas Line & Total: San Jose (-220); 5 Dunkel Pick: San Jose (-220); Under |
| Game 69-70: Ottawa at Carolina (12:00 p.m. EST) Dunkel Ratings: Ottawa 12.349; Carolina 10.413 Dunkel Line & Total: Ottawa by 2; 6 Vegas Line & Total: Carolina (-125); 5 1/2 Dunkel Pick: Ottawa (+105); Over |
StatFox Super Situations - FoxSheets
NBA OKLAHOMA CITY at PHILADELPHIA
Play On - Favorites of 10 or more points (OKLAHOMA CITY) after beating the spread by 30 or more points total in their last five games against opponent after going under the total by 54 or more points total in their last ten games
29-8 since 1997. ( 78.4% 20.2 units )
1-1 this year. ( 50.0% -0.1 units )
NBA CHICAGO at CHARLOTTE
Play On - Favorites vs. the money line (CHICAGO) after allowing 110 points or more against opponent after allowing 60 points or more in the first half last game
82-23 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.1% 41.1 units )
12-4 this year. ( 75.0% 5.1 units )
NBA INDIANA at DENVER
Play Over - All teams where the first half total is greater than 100 in a game involving two average three point shooting teams (33%-36.5%), after 2 straight games making 9 or more 3 point shots
136-76 since 1997. ( 64.2% 52.4 units )
11-4 this year. ( 73.3% 6.6 units )
NBA OKLAHOMA CITY at PHILADELPHIA
Play On - Favorites of 10 or more points (OKLAHOMA CITY) after beating the spread by 30 or more points total in their last five games against opponent after going under the total by 54 or more points total in their last ten games
29-8 since 1997. ( 78.4% 20.2 units )
1-1 this year. ( 50.0% -0.1 units )
NBA CHICAGO at CHARLOTTE
Play On - Favorites vs. the money line (CHICAGO) after allowing 110 points or more against opponent after allowing 60 points or more in the first half last game
82-23 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.1% 41.1 units )
12-4 this year. ( 75.0% 5.1 units )
NBA INDIANA at DENVER
Play Over - All teams where the first half total is greater than 100 in a game involving two average three point shooting teams (33%-36.5%), after 2 straight games making 9 or more 3 point shots
136-76 since 1997. ( 64.2% 52.4 units )
11-4 this year. ( 73.3% 6.6 units )
StatFox Super Situations - FoxSheets
CBB MARSHALL at LOUISIANA TECH
Play Against - Home favorites of 10 or more points (LOUISIANA TECH) average 3PT shooting team (32-36.5%) against a poor 3PT shooting team (<=32%), good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO's) against a poor pressure defense (<=14.5 TO's) after 15+ games
190-112 since 1997. ( 62.9% 66.8 units )
5-4 this year. ( 55.6% 0.6 units )
CBB WM & MARY at DREXEL
Play Against - A home team vs. the money line (DREXEL) in a game involving two average teams (+/- 3.5 PPG differential.), after allowing 90 points or more
34-24 over the last 5 seasons. ( 58.6% 28.0 units )
0-4 this year. ( 0.0% -4.0 units )
CBB VILLANOVA at MARQUETTE
Play Against - Road teams where the 1rst half line is +1.5 to -1.5 (VILLANOVA) off a loss by 10 points or more to a conference rival, top level team, winning 80% or more of their games on the season
41-15 since 1997. ( 73.2% 24.5 units )
1-0 this year. ( 100.0% 1.0 units )
CBB MARSHALL at LOUISIANA TECH
Play Against - Home favorites of 10 or more points (LOUISIANA TECH) average 3PT shooting team (32-36.5%) against a poor 3PT shooting team (<=32%), good ball handling team (<=14.5 TO's) against a poor pressure defense (<=14.5 TO's) after 15+ games
190-112 since 1997. ( 62.9% 66.8 units )
5-4 this year. ( 55.6% 0.6 units )
CBB WM & MARY at DREXEL
Play Against - A home team vs. the money line (DREXEL) in a game involving two average teams (+/- 3.5 PPG differential.), after allowing 90 points or more
34-24 over the last 5 seasons. ( 58.6% 28.0 units )
0-4 this year. ( 0.0% -4.0 units )
CBB VILLANOVA at MARQUETTE
Play Against - Road teams where the 1rst half line is +1.5 to -1.5 (VILLANOVA) off a loss by 10 points or more to a conference rival, top level team, winning 80% or more of their games on the season
41-15 since 1997. ( 73.2% 24.5 units )
1-0 this year. ( 100.0% 1.0 units )
Football Crusher
no play
(System Record: 55-4, lost last game)
Overall Record: 55-51-1
Hockey Crusher
Los Angeles Kings -105 over Anaheim
(System Record: 60-2, won last 2 games)
Overall Record: 60-42-1
Basketball Crusher
Mississippi State +12 over Mississippi
(System Record: 38-4, lost last 2 games)
Overall Record: 38-49-2
Soccer Crusher
Oostende + RS Waasland UNDER 2.5
This match is happening in Belgium
(System Record: 514-18, lost last game)
Overall Record: 514-442-75
Here are the rest of his basketball plays for today...
Basketball
Brown PK over Yale
Rhode Island +3.5 over Dayton
Villanova -2 over Marquette
Clippers at Raptors: What bettors need to know
Los Angeles Clippers at Toronto Raptors (-1.5, 199.5)
With Chris Paul still sidelined, Blake Griffin has been showing off some of his passing chops in recent games. Griffin looks to continue his generous January as he leads the Los Angeles Clippers into Toronto on Saturday night for a showdown with the Atlantic Division-leading Raptors. Griffin dished out seven assists to go along with 26 points and 13 rebounds in a 112-95 win over the Chicago Bulls, while the Raptors are coming off a 104-95 triumph at Philadelphia.
The Clippers haven't missed a beat without their injured franchise point guard, winning seven of their last nine games behind some sensational play from Griffin. The fourth-year power forward is averaging 25.4 points and 8.9 rebounds in 12 January games, while dishing out close to five assists in that stretch. He and the Clippers will be in for a tough test against a Toronto team that has won 16 of its last 24 games while boasting one of the league's best defenses.
TV: 7 p.m. ET, Prime Ticket (Los Angeles), TSN (Toronto)
ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (30-15): Griffin has heard the criticisms of his game since he was made the first overall pick in 2009. He has taken advantage of Paul's absence to show off his versatility, leading the Clippers to a 7-3 mark with his All-Star teammate out with a separated shoulder. "(I want to be) a leader for us, knocking down shots and being able to mix up my game, going inside when I felt the need to and going outside when I needed to," he told reporters after the win over the Bulls. Griffin was one of six Clippers to finish in double figures versus Chicago.
ABOUT THE RAPTORS (22-20): Griffin isn't the only player showing off a more well-rounded game these days. Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry has reached new heights since the club traded small forward Rudy Gay to the Sacramento Kings and placed Lowry firmly in charge of the offense. The Philadelphia native had a night to remember in his hometown - scoring 18 points, dishing out 13 assists and hauling in 10 rebounds in Friday's victory - and has looked like one of the league's best point guards over the past two months.
TRENDS:
* Clippers are 2-7 ATS in the last nine meetings.
* Raptors are 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games overall.
* Over is 9-1 in Clippers last 10 road games.
* Under is 10-4 in Raptors last 14 overall.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. The teams have split the past six meetings, with the home side winning each time.
2. Griffin averages 19.4 points and 11.6 rebounds in five career games versus the Raptors.
3. Raptors SG DeMar DeRozan is averaging 24.9 points in January.
Los Angeles Clippers at Toronto Raptors (-1.5, 199.5)
With Chris Paul still sidelined, Blake Griffin has been showing off some of his passing chops in recent games. Griffin looks to continue his generous January as he leads the Los Angeles Clippers into Toronto on Saturday night for a showdown with the Atlantic Division-leading Raptors. Griffin dished out seven assists to go along with 26 points and 13 rebounds in a 112-95 win over the Chicago Bulls, while the Raptors are coming off a 104-95 triumph at Philadelphia.
The Clippers haven't missed a beat without their injured franchise point guard, winning seven of their last nine games behind some sensational play from Griffin. The fourth-year power forward is averaging 25.4 points and 8.9 rebounds in 12 January games, while dishing out close to five assists in that stretch. He and the Clippers will be in for a tough test against a Toronto team that has won 16 of its last 24 games while boasting one of the league's best defenses.
TV: 7 p.m. ET, Prime Ticket (Los Angeles), TSN (Toronto)
ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (30-15): Griffin has heard the criticisms of his game since he was made the first overall pick in 2009. He has taken advantage of Paul's absence to show off his versatility, leading the Clippers to a 7-3 mark with his All-Star teammate out with a separated shoulder. "(I want to be) a leader for us, knocking down shots and being able to mix up my game, going inside when I felt the need to and going outside when I needed to," he told reporters after the win over the Bulls. Griffin was one of six Clippers to finish in double figures versus Chicago.
ABOUT THE RAPTORS (22-20): Griffin isn't the only player showing off a more well-rounded game these days. Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry has reached new heights since the club traded small forward Rudy Gay to the Sacramento Kings and placed Lowry firmly in charge of the offense. The Philadelphia native had a night to remember in his hometown - scoring 18 points, dishing out 13 assists and hauling in 10 rebounds in Friday's victory - and has looked like one of the league's best point guards over the past two months.
TRENDS:
* Clippers are 2-7 ATS in the last nine meetings.
* Raptors are 17-5 ATS in their last 22 games overall.
* Over is 9-1 in Clippers last 10 road games.
* Under is 10-4 in Raptors last 14 overall.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. The teams have split the past six meetings, with the home side winning each time.
2. Griffin averages 19.4 points and 11.6 rebounds in five career games versus the Raptors.
3. Raptors SG DeMar DeRozan is averaging 24.9 points in January.
Senators at Hurricanes: What bettors need to know
Ottawa Senators at Carolina Hurricanes (-115, 5.5)
The Carolina Hurricanes host the Ottawa Senators on Saturday afternoon in a battle between two Eastern Conference teams fighting for wild-card playoff spots. The Hurricanes posted a 4-1 victory on Nov. 24, extending their home dominance over the Senators to 10-0-1 in the last 11 meetings. Carolina is returning home after sweeping a brief two-game road trip but is just 11-10-5 at PNC Arena.
Ottawa has one regulation loss in its last 11 games (7-1-3), six of which have been on the road. Craig Anderson has started eight of nine games this month, but Robin Lehner will get the nod Saturday after recording a 27-save shutout in his only start of 2014. Anton Khudobin is expected to start for the Hurricanes, which would mark his 11th consecutive appearance since returning from an ankle injury.
TV: 12 p.m. ET, RSN East (Ottawa), FSN (Carolina)
ABOUT THE SENATORS (22-19-10): Defenseman Erik Karlsson has 11 points in nine games in January, while Clarke MacArthur leads the team with six goals this month. Blue-liner Marc Methot, who is second on the team in average ice time behind Karlsson, has been scratched for the last two games despite saying he feels well enough to play. Methot’s absence might be explained by an increase in ice time for Jared Cowen, who is averaging 23:45 in January.
ABOUT THE HURRICANES (22-19-9): Cam Ward could return soon from a lower-body injury that has kept him out since the end of 2013. Khudobin has fared much better than Ward this season, with a .930 save percentage to Ward’s .895. Alexander Semin has been red-hot of late, tallying six times during his four-game goal-scoring streak.
TRENDS:
* Under is 6-0 in the last six meetings.
* Senators are 1-5 in the last six meetings.
* Hurricanes are 8-3 in their last 11 overall.
* Under is 4-0 in Senators last four vs. Metropolitan.
OVERTIME:
1. Ottawa F Chris Neil scored his 100th career goal Thursday in his 824th game. He has 2,109 career penalty minutes.
2. Hurricanes captain Eric Staal has recorded 36 points in 36 career games against Ottawa.
3. The Senators have the best road power play in the league, converting 24-of-85 opportunities.
Ottawa Senators at Carolina Hurricanes (-115, 5.5)
The Carolina Hurricanes host the Ottawa Senators on Saturday afternoon in a battle between two Eastern Conference teams fighting for wild-card playoff spots. The Hurricanes posted a 4-1 victory on Nov. 24, extending their home dominance over the Senators to 10-0-1 in the last 11 meetings. Carolina is returning home after sweeping a brief two-game road trip but is just 11-10-5 at PNC Arena.
Ottawa has one regulation loss in its last 11 games (7-1-3), six of which have been on the road. Craig Anderson has started eight of nine games this month, but Robin Lehner will get the nod Saturday after recording a 27-save shutout in his only start of 2014. Anton Khudobin is expected to start for the Hurricanes, which would mark his 11th consecutive appearance since returning from an ankle injury.
TV: 12 p.m. ET, RSN East (Ottawa), FSN (Carolina)
ABOUT THE SENATORS (22-19-10): Defenseman Erik Karlsson has 11 points in nine games in January, while Clarke MacArthur leads the team with six goals this month. Blue-liner Marc Methot, who is second on the team in average ice time behind Karlsson, has been scratched for the last two games despite saying he feels well enough to play. Methot’s absence might be explained by an increase in ice time for Jared Cowen, who is averaging 23:45 in January.
ABOUT THE HURRICANES (22-19-9): Cam Ward could return soon from a lower-body injury that has kept him out since the end of 2013. Khudobin has fared much better than Ward this season, with a .930 save percentage to Ward’s .895. Alexander Semin has been red-hot of late, tallying six times during his four-game goal-scoring streak.
TRENDS:
* Under is 6-0 in the last six meetings.
* Senators are 1-5 in the last six meetings.
* Hurricanes are 8-3 in their last 11 overall.
* Under is 4-0 in Senators last four vs. Metropolitan.
OVERTIME:
1. Ottawa F Chris Neil scored his 100th career goal Thursday in his 824th game. He has 2,109 career penalty minutes.
2. Hurricanes captain Eric Staal has recorded 36 points in 36 career games against Ottawa.
3. The Senators have the best road power play in the league, converting 24-of-85 opportunities.
DAVID BANKS
NCAAB
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans
An in-state rivalry could give us perhaps the best matchup in the Big Ten
this season on ESPN Saturday night when the third ranked Michigan State
Spartans (18-1, 10-6-2 ATS) host the 21st ranked Michigan Wolverines (14-4, 9-6-1
ATS) from the Breslin Center at 7:00 ET. While the Spartans have tasted
defeat only once to North Carolina here at home, they will probably be without
starting center Adreian Payne for a fifth straight game here, which would
take away the size advantage they would normally have over the Wolverines.
That makes Michigan State vulnerable vs. a very hot Michigan team.
Michigan State is ranked eighth overall on the Pomeroy Ratings, meaning
that the Spartans may be a tad overrated with their third ranking in the polls
but are still excellent when at full strength, which unfortunately they are
not right now without Payne's 16.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game and
general inside presence at 6-foot-10. Yes, the Spartans have gone 4-0 in the
games that Payne has missed, but they were taken to overtime by Minnesota, only
beat Indiana by five points at home and beat a couple of teams in Illinois
and Northwester that are ranked 84th and 142nd respectively on Pomeroy.
Michigan is a much bigger threat than any of those teams and Matt Costello has
averaged just 5.8 points and 3.8 rebounds the last four games while filling
in for Payne. That lack of production could prove fatal here as no other
Michigan State starter stands taller than 6-foot-6 and Keith Appling is now the
only senior making any significant contributions. Garry Harris leads the
team in scoring with his 18.3 points, but this could be the biggest game in the
young sophomore's life so it remains to be seen how he reacts while being
asked to carry this team on this big stage.
Michigan was just 6-4 after blowing a late lead at home to top ranked
Arizona in a disappointing 72-70 loss back on December 14th, but the Wolverines
have not lost since while reeling off eight straight wins, and at 6-0 in Big
Ten play, they join Michigan State (7-0) as the only two teams undefeated in
conference play, which is just another reason why is probably the biggest
Big Ten game so far this season, especially with the Wolverines up to 10th on
Pomeroy. And Michigan certainly has the offense to take advantage of the
Spartans' lack of size, as the Wolverines are ranked third in the country in
offensive efficiency and seventh in effective field goal percentage. Michigan
is a good three-point shooting team at 38.2 percent, but the Wolverines are
deadly closer to the basket ranking eighth in the land in two-point
shooting at 55.5 percent, and that is where Michigan State will miss the presence
of Payne the most. Michigan also ranks a good 46th in defensive efficiency, a
ranking enhanced by ranking 15th in defensive rebounding percentage, and
again, the Wolverines should now dominate in that department assuming Payne
sits outs as expected.
Michigan is 6-1-1 ATS in their last eight games overall, 6-1 ATS in its
last seven games following a straight up win and 3-0-1 ATS in its last four
games vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600.
PICK: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES+5.5
NCAAB
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans
An in-state rivalry could give us perhaps the best matchup in the Big Ten
this season on ESPN Saturday night when the third ranked Michigan State
Spartans (18-1, 10-6-2 ATS) host the 21st ranked Michigan Wolverines (14-4, 9-6-1
ATS) from the Breslin Center at 7:00 ET. While the Spartans have tasted
defeat only once to North Carolina here at home, they will probably be without
starting center Adreian Payne for a fifth straight game here, which would
take away the size advantage they would normally have over the Wolverines.
That makes Michigan State vulnerable vs. a very hot Michigan team.
Michigan State is ranked eighth overall on the Pomeroy Ratings, meaning
that the Spartans may be a tad overrated with their third ranking in the polls
but are still excellent when at full strength, which unfortunately they are
not right now without Payne's 16.2 points and 7.7 rebounds per game and
general inside presence at 6-foot-10. Yes, the Spartans have gone 4-0 in the
games that Payne has missed, but they were taken to overtime by Minnesota, only
beat Indiana by five points at home and beat a couple of teams in Illinois
and Northwester that are ranked 84th and 142nd respectively on Pomeroy.
Michigan is a much bigger threat than any of those teams and Matt Costello has
averaged just 5.8 points and 3.8 rebounds the last four games while filling
in for Payne. That lack of production could prove fatal here as no other
Michigan State starter stands taller than 6-foot-6 and Keith Appling is now the
only senior making any significant contributions. Garry Harris leads the
team in scoring with his 18.3 points, but this could be the biggest game in the
young sophomore's life so it remains to be seen how he reacts while being
asked to carry this team on this big stage.
Michigan was just 6-4 after blowing a late lead at home to top ranked
Arizona in a disappointing 72-70 loss back on December 14th, but the Wolverines
have not lost since while reeling off eight straight wins, and at 6-0 in Big
Ten play, they join Michigan State (7-0) as the only two teams undefeated in
conference play, which is just another reason why is probably the biggest
Big Ten game so far this season, especially with the Wolverines up to 10th on
Pomeroy. And Michigan certainly has the offense to take advantage of the
Spartans' lack of size, as the Wolverines are ranked third in the country in
offensive efficiency and seventh in effective field goal percentage. Michigan
is a good three-point shooting team at 38.2 percent, but the Wolverines are
deadly closer to the basket ranking eighth in the land in two-point
shooting at 55.5 percent, and that is where Michigan State will miss the presence
of Payne the most. Michigan also ranks a good 46th in defensive efficiency, a
ranking enhanced by ranking 15th in defensive rebounding percentage, and
again, the Wolverines should now dominate in that department assuming Payne
sits outs as expected.
Michigan is 6-1-1 ATS in their last eight games overall, 6-1 ATS in its
last seven games following a straight up win and 3-0-1 ATS in its last four
games vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600.
PICK: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES+5.5
NCAAB
Saturday, January 25
Florida State won three of last five games with Duke, with three wins by 5 or less points- they split last four visits here. FSU is 0-2 vs Virginia, 4-0 vs rest of ACC, with road wins at Clemson/Miami. Duke is 2-1 as ACC home favorite, winning by 22-4-35 points. Seminoles are making 43.8% of 3's in ACC games, #1 in league; Duke is #3, at 40.3%. ACC home favorites of 7+ points are 10-6 vs spread.
Providence won/covered last four games, were favored only once, with a win over Creighton; Friars are playing slowest tempo in league because they use a 6-man rotation. Xavier is 5-1 in Big East, 6-0 vs spread, with only loss by 6 at Creighton; they've scored 80+ points last four games. These are two best rebounding teams in league. Big East dogs are 6-1 vs spread in games where number was 4 or less points.
LaSalle won 69-61 at VCU in only A-13 meeting LY, after trailing by 8 in second half; Explorers only had 14 turnovers that day, are turning it over 19% of time in A-13 play this year (17.9% LY). LaSalle is 2-0 at home in league. beating GW/URI, scoring 74 ppg. VCU forces turnovers 26.1% of time; they split first two A-13 road games, winning at Dayton after losing by 10 at GW. A-13 home underdogs are 4-5 vs spread.
Towson beat Delaware by 3-20 points LY after losing previous five to Blue Hens. Underdogs covered Tigers' first four CAA games; they're 2-0 as road dogs, winning at Drexel/Charleston. Delaware is 5-0, with three of five on road- they won first two home games by 7-5 points, but didn't cover either, as road teams covered all seven of their league games. CAA home favorites are 4-14 against the spread this season.
Iowa State lost its last three games (giving up 83.3 ppg) after 14-0 start, despite being favored in all three; Cyclones won three of last four games with Kansas State, with all four games decided by 9 or less. Wildcats are 5-1 vs spread in league games, losing by 26 at Kansas, 3 at Texas, with win at TCU. Big X home favorites of 8 or less points are 3-6 vs spread. ISU's two Big X wins are by 13 at Texas Tech, 15 over Baylor.
Texas lost three of last four games with Baylor, losing last two visits to Waco by 5-7 points. Longhorns won last four games after 0-2 start in league- they're 1-1 as road dogs, losing by 13 at OSU, winning by 11 at West Va. Baylor lost its last three games after a 13-2 start; they're 1-1 as home favorites, losing to Oklahoma after beating TCU by 26. Big X home favorites are 6-9 vs spread, 2-4 if laying 6 or less points.
Maryland lost three of last four games, but they're 2-0 at home in their last year in ACC, beating Ga Tech/Notre Dame; favorites covered five of their six league games. Pitt is 5-1 in ACC, with only loss at Syracuse by 5; they've won at NC State by 12, Ga Tech by 7. ACC home underdogs are 4-8 vs spread. Pitt's 55.2eFG% on offense is best in ACC- they are making 52.5% of 2-pointers, 42.9% outside arc.
Tennessee won last three games with Florida; teams played once LY in first year of un-balanced schedule. Vols are 2-0 as road dogs, losing by 8 at Kentucky, winning at LSU. Gators won by 6 at Alabama Thursday, have less prep time here; they're 1-1 as home favorites, winning by 16-20 points. Vols are rebounding 41.2% of missed shots in league; Florida is #10 in SEC on defensive boards. SEC home faves of 9+ points are 6-3.
Michigan won four of last six games with Michigan State, losing last two visits here by 10-23 points; home side won last four series games, but Spartans have injury issues, with Payne/Dawson (hand) out. State won its last 11 games; they're 1-2 as home favorites, winning by 4-12-5 in its home games. Wolverines are 6-0 in league, with three wins on road, two as dog. Big Dozen single digit favorites are 5-16 vs spread, 1-9 at home.
Creighton was ridiculous 21-35 from arc in win at Villanova Monday, is 2-1 as Big East home favorite, winning by 18-6-28 points- they've made 43.5% of 3's in league (4-19 in only loss, at Providence). Georgetown is 1-4 without Josh Smith (grades/out for year), with only win at Butler in OT. Hoyas lost other two road games. by 18 at Providence, at Xavier by 23. Big East double digit home favorites are 3-3 vs spread.
BYU has to bounce back from triple OT loss at Portland Thursday, in which Austin/Haws both played 50+ minutes, two others played 43+. Cougars lost last four games with Gonzaga after winning first meeting in WCC, losing here by 11-20 points- Portland loss snapped their 5-game win streak. Gonzaga is 3-2 as WCC home favorite, with four wins by 14 or more points. WCC home favorites of 6+ points are 8-10 vs spread.
Cal-Irvine was 2-1 vs Hawai'i LY, beating Warriors by 11 in conference tourney in Hawai'i's first year in league- they won by 4 here, lost by 6 on islands. Anteaters are 4-0 in league, 1-1 as home favorites, winning by 18-6 over Fullerton/CSUN. Big West home favorites of 9 or less points are 1-5 vs spread. Hawai'i won last two games by 31-17; they're 2-2 in true road games, losing by 12 at Cal Poly, 1 at Northridge.
Belmont won seven of last eight games; lone loss was 74-63 at Eastern Kentucky, when they were -11 (20-9) in turnovers. Bruins are 1-2 as home favorites, winning by 11-2-14 points; they swept EKU by 7-11 points LY. Colonels won last four games, are 3-1 on OVC road, losing by 6 as 11-point favorites at Edwardsville. OVC home favorites of 8 or less points are 10-8 against the spread.
Saturday, January 25
Florida State won three of last five games with Duke, with three wins by 5 or less points- they split last four visits here. FSU is 0-2 vs Virginia, 4-0 vs rest of ACC, with road wins at Clemson/Miami. Duke is 2-1 as ACC home favorite, winning by 22-4-35 points. Seminoles are making 43.8% of 3's in ACC games, #1 in league; Duke is #3, at 40.3%. ACC home favorites of 7+ points are 10-6 vs spread.
Providence won/covered last four games, were favored only once, with a win over Creighton; Friars are playing slowest tempo in league because they use a 6-man rotation. Xavier is 5-1 in Big East, 6-0 vs spread, with only loss by 6 at Creighton; they've scored 80+ points last four games. These are two best rebounding teams in league. Big East dogs are 6-1 vs spread in games where number was 4 or less points.
LaSalle won 69-61 at VCU in only A-13 meeting LY, after trailing by 8 in second half; Explorers only had 14 turnovers that day, are turning it over 19% of time in A-13 play this year (17.9% LY). LaSalle is 2-0 at home in league. beating GW/URI, scoring 74 ppg. VCU forces turnovers 26.1% of time; they split first two A-13 road games, winning at Dayton after losing by 10 at GW. A-13 home underdogs are 4-5 vs spread.
Towson beat Delaware by 3-20 points LY after losing previous five to Blue Hens. Underdogs covered Tigers' first four CAA games; they're 2-0 as road dogs, winning at Drexel/Charleston. Delaware is 5-0, with three of five on road- they won first two home games by 7-5 points, but didn't cover either, as road teams covered all seven of their league games. CAA home favorites are 4-14 against the spread this season.
Iowa State lost its last three games (giving up 83.3 ppg) after 14-0 start, despite being favored in all three; Cyclones won three of last four games with Kansas State, with all four games decided by 9 or less. Wildcats are 5-1 vs spread in league games, losing by 26 at Kansas, 3 at Texas, with win at TCU. Big X home favorites of 8 or less points are 3-6 vs spread. ISU's two Big X wins are by 13 at Texas Tech, 15 over Baylor.
Texas lost three of last four games with Baylor, losing last two visits to Waco by 5-7 points. Longhorns won last four games after 0-2 start in league- they're 1-1 as road dogs, losing by 13 at OSU, winning by 11 at West Va. Baylor lost its last three games after a 13-2 start; they're 1-1 as home favorites, losing to Oklahoma after beating TCU by 26. Big X home favorites are 6-9 vs spread, 2-4 if laying 6 or less points.
Maryland lost three of last four games, but they're 2-0 at home in their last year in ACC, beating Ga Tech/Notre Dame; favorites covered five of their six league games. Pitt is 5-1 in ACC, with only loss at Syracuse by 5; they've won at NC State by 12, Ga Tech by 7. ACC home underdogs are 4-8 vs spread. Pitt's 55.2eFG% on offense is best in ACC- they are making 52.5% of 2-pointers, 42.9% outside arc.
Tennessee won last three games with Florida; teams played once LY in first year of un-balanced schedule. Vols are 2-0 as road dogs, losing by 8 at Kentucky, winning at LSU. Gators won by 6 at Alabama Thursday, have less prep time here; they're 1-1 as home favorites, winning by 16-20 points. Vols are rebounding 41.2% of missed shots in league; Florida is #10 in SEC on defensive boards. SEC home faves of 9+ points are 6-3.
Michigan won four of last six games with Michigan State, losing last two visits here by 10-23 points; home side won last four series games, but Spartans have injury issues, with Payne/Dawson (hand) out. State won its last 11 games; they're 1-2 as home favorites, winning by 4-12-5 in its home games. Wolverines are 6-0 in league, with three wins on road, two as dog. Big Dozen single digit favorites are 5-16 vs spread, 1-9 at home.
Creighton was ridiculous 21-35 from arc in win at Villanova Monday, is 2-1 as Big East home favorite, winning by 18-6-28 points- they've made 43.5% of 3's in league (4-19 in only loss, at Providence). Georgetown is 1-4 without Josh Smith (grades/out for year), with only win at Butler in OT. Hoyas lost other two road games. by 18 at Providence, at Xavier by 23. Big East double digit home favorites are 3-3 vs spread.
BYU has to bounce back from triple OT loss at Portland Thursday, in which Austin/Haws both played 50+ minutes, two others played 43+. Cougars lost last four games with Gonzaga after winning first meeting in WCC, losing here by 11-20 points- Portland loss snapped their 5-game win streak. Gonzaga is 3-2 as WCC home favorite, with four wins by 14 or more points. WCC home favorites of 6+ points are 8-10 vs spread.
Cal-Irvine was 2-1 vs Hawai'i LY, beating Warriors by 11 in conference tourney in Hawai'i's first year in league- they won by 4 here, lost by 6 on islands. Anteaters are 4-0 in league, 1-1 as home favorites, winning by 18-6 over Fullerton/CSUN. Big West home favorites of 9 or less points are 1-5 vs spread. Hawai'i won last two games by 31-17; they're 2-2 in true road games, losing by 12 at Cal Poly, 1 at Northridge.
Belmont won seven of last eight games; lone loss was 74-63 at Eastern Kentucky, when they were -11 (20-9) in turnovers. Bruins are 1-2 as home favorites, winning by 11-2-14 points; they swept EKU by 7-11 points LY. Colonels won last four games, are 3-1 on OVC road, losing by 6 as 11-point favorites at Edwardsville. OVC home favorites of 8 or less points are 10-8 against the spread.
NBA
Saturday, January 25
Hot teams
-- Bulls lost three of their last four games. Charlotte won three of last four home games, but lost by 29 in NYC last night.
-- Clippers won seven of their last nine games. Toronto won five of its last six home games.
-- Thunder won/covered last six games; Durant (shoulder) didn't play in last night's game.
-- Rockets won six of their last eight games. Memphis won six of last seven games.
-- Pacers won six of their last seven games.
-- Wizards won five of their last seven games.
-- Minnesota won last three games, is 13-9 vs spread on road. Portland won six of its last eight games.
Cold Teams
-- 76ers lost eight of last ten games, are 7-14 vs spread at home.
-- Milwaukee lost 18 of last 21 games. Hawks lost three of last four on road (8-12 vs spread on road).
-- Nuggets lost four of last five games, are 8-12 vs spread at home.
-- Utah lost three of its last four games.
Series records
-- Bulls won nine of last ten games with Charlotte.
-- Clippers won three of last four games with Toronto, but lost three of last four visits north of border.
-- Thunder won its last eight games with Philadelphia.
-- Memphis-Houston are 7-7 in last 14 meetings after Grizzlies won by a point in Houston last night.
-- Hawks won eight of last nine games with Milwaukee.
-- Nuggets won six of last seven games with Indiana, last three all by 4 or less points.
-- Jazz won three in row, six of last eight games with Washington.
-- Trailblazers won five of last six games with Minnesota.
Totals
-- Four of last five Charlotte home games went over.
-- Nine of Clippers' last ten road games went over.
-- Four of last five Thunder road games stayed under.
-- Under is 7-2-1 in Houston's last ten road games.
-- Nine of last eleven Atlanta road games went over.
-- Last five Denver home games went over the total.
-- Eight of last eleven Washington road games went over.
-- Over is 10-1-1 in last dozen Minnesota-Portland games.
Saturday, January 25
Hot teams
-- Bulls lost three of their last four games. Charlotte won three of last four home games, but lost by 29 in NYC last night.
-- Clippers won seven of their last nine games. Toronto won five of its last six home games.
-- Thunder won/covered last six games; Durant (shoulder) didn't play in last night's game.
-- Rockets won six of their last eight games. Memphis won six of last seven games.
-- Pacers won six of their last seven games.
-- Wizards won five of their last seven games.
-- Minnesota won last three games, is 13-9 vs spread on road. Portland won six of its last eight games.
Cold Teams
-- 76ers lost eight of last ten games, are 7-14 vs spread at home.
-- Milwaukee lost 18 of last 21 games. Hawks lost three of last four on road (8-12 vs spread on road).
-- Nuggets lost four of last five games, are 8-12 vs spread at home.
-- Utah lost three of its last four games.
Series records
-- Bulls won nine of last ten games with Charlotte.
-- Clippers won three of last four games with Toronto, but lost three of last four visits north of border.
-- Thunder won its last eight games with Philadelphia.
-- Memphis-Houston are 7-7 in last 14 meetings after Grizzlies won by a point in Houston last night.
-- Hawks won eight of last nine games with Milwaukee.
-- Nuggets won six of last seven games with Indiana, last three all by 4 or less points.
-- Jazz won three in row, six of last eight games with Washington.
-- Trailblazers won five of last six games with Minnesota.
Totals
-- Four of last five Charlotte home games went over.
-- Nine of Clippers' last ten road games went over.
-- Four of last five Thunder road games stayed under.
-- Under is 7-2-1 in Houston's last ten road games.
-- Nine of last eleven Atlanta road games went over.
-- Last five Denver home games went over the total.
-- Eight of last eleven Washington road games went over.
-- Over is 10-1-1 in last dozen Minnesota-Portland games.
NHL
Saturday, January 25
Hot teams
-- Carolina won seven of its last ten games.
-- Islanders won seven of their last ten games. Blues are 6-2 in last eight road games, 3-4 in last seven games overall.
-- Avalanche won five of their last six games. Tampa Bay won its last two games, scoring nine goals.
-- Columbus won last eight games, scoring 19 goals in last four.
-- Maple Leafs won won six of their last seven games. Winnipeg won four of last five.
-- Penguins won seven of their last nine games. Dallas won last two games, 7-1/4-0.
-- Ducks won 20 of their last 23 games.
-- Sharks won last five games, allowing seven goals. Minnesota won eight of its last eleven.
Cold teams
-- Senators lost three of their last four games.
-- Philly lost four of its last five games. Bruins lost four of their last six road games.
-- Washington lost its last seven games, scoring eight goals. Canadiens lost four of their last five games.
-- Sabres lost six of their last seven games.
-- Kings lost their last four games, all on the road.
Totals
-- Six of last nine Carolina games stayed under total.
-- Under is 6-1-1 in last eight St Louis games; six of last seven Islander games went over.
-- Over is 6-1-1 in last eight Philly games.
-- Over is 3-0-1 in last four Montreal games. Six of last eight Washington games stayed under the total.
-- Last three Tampa Bay games went over the total.
-- Last five Buffalo games went over the total.
-- Last six Toronto games went over the total.
-- Eight of last nine Pittsburgh games went over total.
-- Last three Anaheim games stayed under the total;
-- Under is 5-0-1 in last six Minnesota games.
Series records
-- Senators lost five of last six games with Carolina.
-- Islanders lost four of last five games with St Louis.
-- Bruins are 10-3 in last 13 games with Philly, but lost last two.
-- Canadiens lost nine of last eleven games with Montreal.
-- Lightning lost five of last six games with Colorado.
-- Blue Jackets won last three games with Buffalo.
-- Jets won three of last four games with Toronto.
-- Dallas Stars lost six of last seven games with Pittsburgh.
-- Kings won eight of last twelve games with Anaheim- this game is outdoors at Dodger Stadium.
-- Sharks won three of last four games with Minnesota.
Saturday, January 25
Hot teams
-- Carolina won seven of its last ten games.
-- Islanders won seven of their last ten games. Blues are 6-2 in last eight road games, 3-4 in last seven games overall.
-- Avalanche won five of their last six games. Tampa Bay won its last two games, scoring nine goals.
-- Columbus won last eight games, scoring 19 goals in last four.
-- Maple Leafs won won six of their last seven games. Winnipeg won four of last five.
-- Penguins won seven of their last nine games. Dallas won last two games, 7-1/4-0.
-- Ducks won 20 of their last 23 games.
-- Sharks won last five games, allowing seven goals. Minnesota won eight of its last eleven.
Cold teams
-- Senators lost three of their last four games.
-- Philly lost four of its last five games. Bruins lost four of their last six road games.
-- Washington lost its last seven games, scoring eight goals. Canadiens lost four of their last five games.
-- Sabres lost six of their last seven games.
-- Kings lost their last four games, all on the road.
Totals
-- Six of last nine Carolina games stayed under total.
-- Under is 6-1-1 in last eight St Louis games; six of last seven Islander games went over.
-- Over is 6-1-1 in last eight Philly games.
-- Over is 3-0-1 in last four Montreal games. Six of last eight Washington games stayed under the total.
-- Last three Tampa Bay games went over the total.
-- Last five Buffalo games went over the total.
-- Last six Toronto games went over the total.
-- Eight of last nine Pittsburgh games went over total.
-- Last three Anaheim games stayed under the total;
-- Under is 5-0-1 in last six Minnesota games.
Series records
-- Senators lost five of last six games with Carolina.
-- Islanders lost four of last five games with St Louis.
-- Bruins are 10-3 in last 13 games with Philly, but lost last two.
-- Canadiens lost nine of last eleven games with Montreal.
-- Lightning lost five of last six games with Colorado.
-- Blue Jackets won last three games with Buffalo.
-- Jets won three of last four games with Toronto.
-- Dallas Stars lost six of last seven games with Pittsburgh.
-- Kings won eight of last twelve games with Anaheim- this game is outdoors at Dodger Stadium.
-- Sharks won three of last four games with Minnesota.
The Winners Circle
SATURDAY BASKETBALL PLAYS
10* Play Houston +1 over Memphis NBA TOP PLAY
10* Play LA Clippers +1 over Toronto NBA TOP PLAY
10* Play UTEP -16.5 over TX-San Antonio NCAA TOP PLAY
10* Play Oklahoma State -14 over West Virginia NCAA TOP PLAY
10* Play Louisiana Tech -19.5 over Marshall NCAA TOP PLAY
SATURDAY BASKETBALL PLAYS
10* Play Houston +1 over Memphis NBA TOP PLAY
10* Play LA Clippers +1 over Toronto NBA TOP PLAY
10* Play UTEP -16.5 over TX-San Antonio NCAA TOP PLAY
10* Play Oklahoma State -14 over West Virginia NCAA TOP PLAY
10* Play Louisiana Tech -19.5 over Marshall NCAA TOP PLAY
