Chris Jordan has 2 small plays for today..
Chris Jordan Thursday's winners ...
100♦ CAVALIERS - It appears the whole Shaq project is paying off after all. One week into the season, the Diesel and the King have found their rhythm with one another while the Bulls are still trying to find an identity without Ben Gordon, who is now in Detroit. Granted, the Bulls come in after impressive 83-81 comeback win over Milwaukee on Tuesday, but they were down by 18 in the third quarter.
They're not going to be able to fall in a hole like that tonight against the Cavs, and rebound for a win against the defending Central Division champs - especially on the road.
Chicago has been outscored by an average of 18 points both road games this season - having lost both - and is a dismal 13-30 away from the United Center since the start of last season.
I don't see the Bulls being competitive in Cleveland, where the Cavs are 41-3 at home since last season, and have won nine of the last 11 meetings with the Bulls. Lay the chalk tonight as Cleveland rolls.
50♦ TEMPLE - Last week, the Owls won their sixth consecutive game with a 27-24 victory at Navy. They roll into this one 6-2 overall and a perfect 4-0 in MAC play. I've been watching this team all season, and jumping in and out when the time is right with this team. Tonight the time is right to lay the chalk.
Nationally, Temple ranks No. 6 in kickoff returns (28.45), No. 22 in total defense (311.13), No. 30 in turnover margin (0.63), No. 31 in sacks (2.50), No. 32 in scoring defense (20.38) and No. 33 in rushing defense (113.50). Meanwhile, freshman running back Bernard Pierce ranks third nationally in rushing (129.12), while sophomore receiver James Nixon is seventh in kickoff returns (33.50).
As balanced as the Owls are, I don't believe Miami will be able to compete and is certainly due for a let down after earning its first win of the season last week.