Sunday 11/15/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Auto Racing Glance
By Jerry Bonkowski, The Sports Xchange

NASCAR SPRINT CUP SERIES: QUICKEN LOANS RACE FOR HEROES 500 (312 laps, 312 miles), Phoenix International Raceway; Avondale, Ariz.
TV: Sunday, Nov. 15, 2:30 p.m. ET -- NBC (Radio: Motor Racing Network/SiriusXM Channel 90).
THEN AND NOW: This is the penultimate race in the 2015 Chase for the Sprint Cup. After Sunday's race, just one remains, the season-ending and championship-deciding race Nov. 22 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. ... Kevin Harvick comes into this race having won the last four Sprint Cup races at Phoenix and seven wins overall. ... Joey Logano faces a must-win situation if he hopes to advance to the championship round at Homestead. All of the other six Chase drivers (not including Jeff Gordon, who is already locked into a berth at Homestead) can potentially reach the final round depending upon where they are in the standings. But, of course, if any of them wins at Phoenix, they will automatically be entered into the Homestead event. ... Even though he was eliminated from the Chase after the first round, six-time Sprint Cup champ Jimmie Johnson showed he still knows how to win, capturing the checkered flag for the third straight time and fifth in the last seven starts at Texas Motor Speedway this past Sunday. ... Jeff Gordon remains the series leader in the Sprint Cup point standings. The rest of the Chase drivers are: Kyle Busch (ranked second, two points back), Harvick (third, three points back), Martin Truex Jr. (fourth, six points back), Carl Edwards (fifth, -13), Brad Keselowski (sixth, -25), Kurt Busch (seventh, -34) and Logano (eighth, -69). ... Matt Kenseth will serve the second race of his two-race suspension this Sunday. He will return to action at Homestead. ... This will be the 39th Sprint Cup race held at PIR.


NATIONAL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION MELLO YELLO DRAG RACING SERIES: AUTO CLUB FINALS, Auto Club Raceway; Pomona, Calif.
TV: Sunday, Nov. 15, 2:30 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. ET (ESPN2), qualifying (tape delay); Sunday, Nov. 15, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. ET (ESPN2) qualifying (tape delay); Sunday, Nov. 15, 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. ET Final eliminations (LIVE, ESPN3.com); Sunday, Nov. 15, 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. ET (ESPN2) final eliminations (tape delay).
THEN AND NOW: Sunday marks the final race of the 24-race 2015 season. Two championships remain to be won: Funny Car and Pro Stock Motorcycle. Two other championships have already been decided: Antron Brown clinched his second Top Fuel crown in four years two weeks ago at Las Vegas, while Erica Enders also captured her second consecutive Pro Stock championship at Las Vegas. ... Del Worsham is seeking his first career Funny Car championship. Worsham maintains a 38-point lead over former Funny Car champ Jack Beckman, while Tommy Johnson Jr. is a distant 97 points back in third place. If Worsham is successful, he would become only the third driver in NHRA history to win championships in both Top Fuel and Funny Car in his career. ... In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Andrew Hines is seeking his second consecutive championship and the fifth of his career heading to Pomona. He leads Louisiana alligator farmer Jerry Savoie by 46 points, while Hines' teammate, Eddie Krawiec, is 83 points back. ... This will be the final race of ESPN's long history of NHRA drag racing coverage. The sanctioning body obtained an early exit from its contract with ESPN, which was due to expire after the 2016 season. Fox Sports and Fox Sports 1 will televise all 23 NHRA races in 2016. NHRA officials continue to hold discussions about potentially returning to a 24-race schedule next season if issues with logistics can be resolved to return to Topeka, Kan. This year's race at Topeka was almost not held until NHRA stepped in to manage the event.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Stags (0-1) at Tar Heels (1-0)

Date: November 15, 2015 4:00 PM EDT

North Carolina coach Roy Williams believes his team can be special once Marcus Paige returns from a broken hand.

Based on first impressions, it's plenty good even without him.

Following an authoritative season-opening win, the top-ranked Tar Heels begin their home schedule against Fairfield on Sunday afternoon.

Despite a slow start in Friday's Veterans Classic in Annapolis, Maryland, the lineup changes made necessary by Paige's injury ultimately had little effect on North Carolina's execution. The Tar Heels made full use of their superior size and enviable depth to record a 91-67 victory over a Temple team coming off a 26-win season.

North Carolina outscored the Owls 42-14 in the paint and finished with a 49-32 rebounding advantage. Junior center Kennedy Meeks had 25 points on 10-of-14 shooting and grabbed 11 rebounds, while senior forward Brice Johnson went 6 of 9 from the floor in a 16-point, 10-rebound effort.

"We felt like we had an advantage with our big guys and we wanted to get it (inside)," Williams said.

The Tar Heels figure to have no problem scoring at will in their follow-up, as Fairfield was outrebounded by a 47-24 margin in Friday's 70-57 loss to Yale. Nineteen of the Bulldogs' boards came on the offensive end.

"Yale did a good job on the boards and we did a poor job," coach Sydney Johnson told Fairfield's official website. "We need to be more aggressive going forward."

The Stags averaged only 59.5 points per game while going 7-24 last season and didn't have a player with more than eight against Yale. Forward Marcus Gilbert did average a team-leading 16.4 per game last season and guard Tyler Nelson was second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in 3-point percentage (.424).

Fairfield, picked to finish eighth out of 11 teams in the MAAC preseason poll, did give the Tar Heels a challenge as a heavy underdog in the schools' lone previous meeting, an 82-74 UNC win in Winston Salem, North Carolina in the 1997 NCAA Tournament first round as a No. 1 seed.

Paige, a three-year starter at point guard and the Tar Heels' top scorer in each of the past two seasons, was given a 3-to-4 week timetable after fracturing a bone in his non-shooting hand on Nov. 3. The Iowa native is optimistic of returning for a homecoming game at Northern Iowa next Saturday, though he's more likely to be out until the Dec. 1 showdown with No. 3 Maryland in Chapel Hill.

Joel Berry II made his first career start in Paige's place and tallied 14 points and four assists against Temple. Nate Britt also saw time at the point and contributed 15 points off the bench, including a pair of 3s that keyed a 13-2 run that closed out the first half and broke a 34-all tie.

"Nate really gave us a bigger spark than anybody in the game," Williams said.

Paige elected not to enter the 2015 NBA Draft in hopes of making a national championship run. Johnson and Meeks' decisions to follow suit led to North Carolina receiving a record ninth preseason No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25 and first since 2011-12.

Fairfield lost at then-No. 4 Duke 109-59 last season and has dropped all 14 games against ranked foes since 2000.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Saints (0-1) at Badgers (0-1)

Date: November 15, 2015 8:00 PM EDT

At some point this season, Wisconsin knew it was probably going to receive a wake-up call. Just maybe not this early.

After being stunned in their opener, the No. 17 Badgers try to avoid starting 0-2 for the first time in 20 years Sunday night against visiting Siena.

With a roster that returns 38 percent of the minutes played from last season's national runner-up, coach Bo Ryan and his players didn't expect things to be easy, especially early. Following Friday's 69-67 home loss to Western Illinois, Wisconsin is forced to expedite the learning curve.

"We got it out of the way sooner rather than later, so hopefully we can learn from this and continue to grow," forward Vitto Brown said.

Wisconsin last dropped its first two games in 1995-96. It hasn't lost consecutive nonconference home games since 1990-91 and last opened with two straight defeats at home in 1959-60.

"I never want to say I'm glad we lost or it's a good thing we lost, but the fact that it happened allows you to see things better," forward Nigel Hayes said.

The Badgers need to see improvement on both ends.

They shot 35.5 percent and allowed a Leathernecks team that went 8-20 last season - but returned its top three scorers - to make 54.0 percent. WIU went 7 of 9 from 3-point range and received two big free throws from guard Garret Covington with 10.2 seconds left.

"I think we're just going to have to listen to our coaching staff, because obviously they've had success in the past," Wisconsin guard Bronson Koenig said. "We just need to buy into their system a little more, be more attentive in practice."

Hayes and Koenig, key contributors last season, each had 17 points but the 6-foot-8 Hayes went 4 of 13 from the field and didn't score in the second half. A solid reserve last season, Brown had 11 points but no other Badger scored more than eight.

"It's hard to get a read when you've got a lot of guys that haven't played that much," Ryan said. "But now you guys know why I say all the things I was saying earlier about 'some days we've got a long way to go.' I think you see now.

"We play again Sunday, we play again Tuesday, and we'll see what we can find."

This will be Wisconsin's first meeting with Siena, which after Friday's 92-74 loss to fifth-ranked Duke will be the first team since 1985 to open against both teams that played in the previous season's national championship game.

Though the Saints have never defeated a Top 25 opponent on the road since moving to Division I in 1976, coach Jimmy Patsos returns three of his top four scorers from an 11-20 team. Each had a solid night Friday with guard Marquis Wright scoring 20 and going 4 of 5 from beyond the arc, while Javion Ogunyemi and Lavon Long each had 15.

"I think we have really nice pieces," Patsos said. "I think we have a really good five or six guys. Our young guys are going to learn. I don't want to be too happy losing by 18, but there was no yelling (in the locker room after the game)."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Notes for Sunday's games..........

UL-Monroe has six of top seven players back from 24-14 team that lost CBI title game; they lost by 8 at New Mexico, in OT at Florida, but one player they lost was their best player. Minnesota lost 52% of its scoring from LY's 18-15 team that went 6-12 in Big 14-- they made 12-28 from arc in 76-58 win over UMKC Friday.

Tex-San Antonio lost opener by 12 at Loyola Chi Friday; Ramblers shot 60% inside arc vs UTSA, which lost three of top four scorers from LY's 14-16 team (8-10 in C-USA). Clemson is playing home games up road in Greenville this season- their arena is being re-done. Tigers won by 34 in its opener, holding NC Central to 30.4% from floor.

NC State lost by 15 at home to Wm & Mary Friday, bad loss; Wolfpack were just 6-22 from arc; W&M shot 58% inside arc. State lost one of its key transfers (Henderson) for 6-8 weeks; they've got three starters back from 22-14 team. South Alabama has three starters back from LY's 12-21 team- they beat stiff team n their opener Friday.

Cal-Davis lost its opener in OT to North Dakota State Friday, missing 16 of 31 FTs (Bison were 4-9); Davis lost 100-83 at Portland in last meeting two years ago. Portland lost three starters from LY's 17-16 team; that beat Murray State, St Mary's. Davis was 25-7 LY but lost Hawkins to pro ball, best player in program history.

LMU played ten guys 11+ minutes Friday, beat Fullerton by 5, forcing 18 turnovers (+8); Lions lost by 8 to Cal-Irvine LY- Anteaters shot 58% inside arc for the game. LMU is trying to play faster. Irvine made NCAA tourney for first time LY; they've got three starters back from 21-13 club that features a 7-6 center who dominates the paint defensively.

UCLA turned ball over 18 times, blew a 13-point lead, lost at home to Monmouth Friday; Bruins also missed 12 FTs, shot 38% inside arc against an inferior team. Cal Poly lost by hoop at UNLV Friday, shooting 7-25 on arc but they did force 19 turnovers (+5). Cal Poly lost by to Cal LY, but 13 to Gonzaga- they're well-coached but a little less athletic.

Next three games, all the teams are playing for third day in a row.......

Northridge played only seven guys two games in row, but they were +11 in second half yesterday, beating Wright State by 7- they were 25-33 on foul line, Wright just 5-9. One of Matadors' best players doesn't become eligible until next semester. South Dakota allowed 74.5 ppg in losing first two games by 7-8 points, turning ball over 21.4% of time.

Northern Illinois won its first two games by 12-7 points, scoring 77.5 ppg; Huskies played nine guys 10+ minutes yesterday. NIU has a solid freshman guard in Wright, also has three starters back from LY's 14-16 team. Wright State split its first two games, despite making 48% behind arc in two games- this is a true road game for them.

Milwaukee won its first two games, allowing 61.5 ppg, despite turning ball over 24.3% of time; Panthers has four starters back from LY's team that could go to postseason because of APR issues. Santa Clara actually lost 55-33 yesterday to a team that runs Princeton offemse, night after losing in double OT, so they'll be hungry for a win here.

Iona likes to play fast; they've ranked in top 50 in tempo last six years in row. Gaels have four starters back from 26-9 team, are picked to win MAAC. Valparaiso has edge, having already played a game- they were 25-38 on line in 78-64 win over IPFW. Crusaders have all five starters back, are picked to win Horizon.

North Dakota State won its opener over Cal-Davis in OT Friday; they lost to Texas by 35, Iowa by 31 early LY, but Illinois got upset Friday by North Florida (NF was 17-33 from arc). Bison have four starters back from 23-10 team that made NCAAs. Illinois has been racked by injuries again- they gave up 1.29 ppp Friday night, very bad defense.

St Joe's shot 60% inside arc, 28-39 on line in 82-81 home win over rival Drexel Friday; Hawks were up 10 at half, now face Niagara squad that shot 2-18 from arc in 67-50 loss to Old Dominion Friday. Purple Eagles lost seven players from LY's 8-22 team- they're supposed to have some decent guards, but didn't show it Friday.

Wisconsin lost at home to Western Illinois 69-67 Friday, shooting 37% inside arc-- WIU was 7-9 behind arc for game. This was Badgers' first loss in an opener since Ryan's first year in Madison. Siena was down 29 at one point to Duke Friday, rallied to cover spread in 92-74 loss, when Blue Devils were just 6-25 from arc.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Saratoga Harness

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


Race 2 - Post: 12:35 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 74 - Purse:$8300 - FILLIES & MARES - WINNERS OF 2 BUT NOT MORE THAN 4 EXT PARI-MUTUEL RACES OR $25,000 LIFE SARATOGA


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 1 NORTHERN BEAUTY 8/5


# 7 OK GEMMA 15/1


# 4 LETSGOSOMEWHERE 9/5


Hard not to strongly consider NORTHERN BEAUTY as the top selection today. Positive feeling - performing well enough to contend in this competition. Could be considered in this contest if only for the great TrackMaster SR achieved in the last gathering. A respectable win clip has been earned by entrants starting from the 1 position. OK GEMMA - Has very nice TrackMaster Speed Ratings and definitely has to be considered for a wager today. Been racing with some tougher customers of late, has a distinct class edge. (Average Rating 79). LETSGOSOMEWHERE - Performing sharply, earned a very promising speed rating in her most recent race (75).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 10 - Post: 2:15 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 92 - Purse:$17500 - NON-WINNERS OF $12,000 IN LAST 5 STARTS WINNERS OVER $80,000 IN 2015 NOT ELIGIBLE.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 GALLANT SEELSTER 5/1


# 4 SCREAMAN SEAMAN A 10/1


# 8 BET THE MOON 9/2


Feel pretty confident putting money down on GALLANT SEELSTER. The knowledge group knows that speed is King in harness racing. This nice horse will unlock our way to a nice trip to the winner's circle. This gelding has been going to post versus some of the most competitive horses in this bunch of late. We're not going to pass on this gelding given one of the strongest driver-trainer numbers around. SCREAMAN SEAMAN A - Pace figures fit the bias well here at Yonkers Raceway, look for this one to get the score. No way we can pass on this gelding given one of the finest driver-handler figures around. BET THE MOON - Most likely the class of the bunch with an average rating of 93. A nice contender. Sharp driver/handler figures make this harness racer a sharp choice. More than likely will be putting money down for this one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Aqueduct

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


Race 1 - Maiden Special Weight - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $60000 Class Rating: 80

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 1 MO D'AMOUR 7/5


# 4 RUBY DUSK 15/1


# 2 CARELLA 8/5


MO D'AMOUR is my choice. Fits in well here based on Pletcher's strong results with 2 year olds lately. Must be considered given the sire numbers TrackMaster shows on this juvenile. Always difficult to beat Pletcher and Velazquez working together, winning 26 percent of their races. RUBY DUSK - Has formidable trainer figures (Coffey wins 20 percent of the time with 2yolds) to back up this wagering choice. Ought to be given a chance against this group based solely on pedigree figures. Earnings per start in dirt sprint races is solid for this racer. CARELLA - Change in Lasix (on Lasix) may be the secret to a turn around. In a juvenile race if you see the name Tapit in the sire line you know you have a solid contender. Overall the speed figures of this animal look very good in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero Race Track

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 7.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $7913 Class Rating: 63

FOR NATIVE TWO YEAR OLDS. WEIGHT, 116 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $14,000, IF FOR $12,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 CORCOVADO 2/1


# 5 UNIONADO 6/5


# 4 RE D' ITALIA 3/1


CORCOVADO looks respectable to best this field. Looks solid against this field and will almost certainly be one of the leaders. Have to examine solely on class, with some of the most respectable class figs of this field. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Casablanca running at this distance are the strongest in this group. UNIONADO - Could provide positive profits based on competitive recent Equibase speed figs with an average of 54. He has competitive class ratings, averaging 68, and has to be given a shot in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Woodbine - Race #9 - Post: 5:10pm - Optional Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $62,300 Class Rating: 100

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#2 SPARROWHAWK (ML=15/1)
#1 SORRY ABOUT THAT (ML=6/1)
#5 CONQUEST QUICKDRAW (ML=6/5)


SPARROWHAWK - You'll be generating money left and right by turning your betting money onto this jockey/conditioner combination. I have to believe that this race's shorter trip should help this horse. Ran a lackluster race at Woodbine last time out. Racing on a fast track puts this horse at the top of my contenders roll call. SORRY ABOUT THAT - Have to make this gelding a solid contender; he comes off a solid contest on Oct 31st. Racing over a familiar track, where he has won multiple times before, I have to put this animal at the top of my list of top contenders. CONQUEST QUICKDRAW - PP lines show this horse with three improving Equibase speed figs. Husbands should be on a live horse in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 VICTORY EXCHANGE (ML=3/1), #6 MARTEN LAKE (ML=4/1), #4 SWEET GRASS CREEK (ML=8/1),

VICTORY EXCHANGE - Had to show me much more in the last race. Never made much of an impact. This horse hasn't had any positive outcomes in short distance races in the last couple months. MARTEN LAKE - Doesn't appear to be in a comfortable situation in today's event. SWEET GRASS CREEK - Doesn't really look inspiring to me after the lack of any type of closing talent on Oct 11th.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#2 SPARROWHAWK is going to be the play if we are getting 7/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2,5] Total Cost: $6

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Golden Gate Fields - Race #5 - Post: 2:44pm - Maiden Special - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $26,000 Class Rating: 88

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 BACK BEAUTY (ML=8/1)
#7 EXPLICABLE (ML=7/5)
#5 ELLE WOODS TOO (ML=12/1)


BACK BEAUTY - Filly is a few starts into a come back here. Should give a big performance today. EXPLICABLE - Nice return on investment for this jock and conditioner pair. ELLE WOODS TOO - A thoroughbred coming back this rapidly after a strong contest is a good sign. Filly is a few starts into a return to racing here. Should give a big race today.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 CATHERINE'S CAUSE (ML=9/5), #3 CHARDONNAY SHERRY (ML=5/1),

CATHERINE'S CAUSE - Doesn't seem to be worth 9/5 today. Pass on her this time. CHARDONNAY SHERRY - Tough to wager on any horse in a short distance race at 5/1 when she hasn't shown any on the board results in sprints in the last two months. Recorded a mediocre speed fig last time around the track in a $50,000 Maiden Claiming race on June 25th. Improbable to see an improved performance off of that fig.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #1 BACK BEAUTY on the nose if you can get odds of 7/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5,7] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,5,7] with [1,5,7] with [1,3,5,6,7] with [1,3,5,6,7] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct

RACE #8 -AQUEDUCT - 3:43 PM EASTERN POST


The New York Stallion Series Stakes - Staten Island Division

FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $125,000.00 PURSE

#3 OLD HARBOR
#5 VICKI'S DANCER
#7 SAYTHREEHAILMARY'S
#6 SHERIFFA

For your information folks ... The New York Stallion Stakes was created by the New York Thoroughbred Breeders, Inc. The Staten Island Division is named for the island separated from New Jersey by the Arthur Kill and the Kill Van Kull, and from the rest of New York by New York Bay. Staten Island is the least populous of the five boroughs of New York City. Here in the 9th running of this stakes test, #3 OLD HARBOR, a 6-1 shot, takes a class drop (-7), is the pace profile leader, and has been a "POWER RUN PERFORMER" in each of her last five outings, hitting the board in four, winning twice, in this recent streak of racing consistency. #5 VICKI'S DANCER qualifies as a TrackMaster PLUS "PowerPony," is the overall speed leader ;in this stakes field sprinting at today's "specialized distance" of 7.0 furlongs on the dirt, and has hit the board in four of her respective, last five starts.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Sunday 11/15 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 359 - 1072 / $1,984.50 BEST BETS: 53 - 86 / $185.50

Best Bet: SING OUT (7th)

Spot Play: RURAL ART (9th)


Race 1

(2) ZOOMING never made a move from post eight last week but Buter should be much more involved from this spot. (1) RED HOT HERBIE was last week's Open winner off a nice trip and he lands inside again with this open draw; likely favorite. (4) SWISHNFLICK bumps to the top level but is razor-sharp.

Race 2

(2) CAN DO really hasn't put in a bad effort for trainer Jody Riedel and the class relief combined with the good post makes him a player. (5) SEVRUGA has speed and is a threat to go all the way. (9) APPOMATTOX ships in very sharp for Burke and only needs to navigate a second-tier start.

Race 3

(8) SKATES N PLATES returns locally and while roughed up when last seen here he's got enough early speed to find a good spot; consider at a price. (3) CLEMENTINE DREAM drops after going evenly with better and she was Dube's choice. (9) I'M FABULOUS looks for two straight but will have to get it done vs. better.

Race 4

(6) LUCKY COLBY took a bit of money and broke leaving last week versus better; the drop in class can get the Garcia-Herrera trainee over the top. (2) MASSIVE TALENT tired last week after being used early and battling most of the way; threat with an easier trip. (3) OUTBURST takes a needed drop in class and draws a better post.

Race 5

(9) ZOEY DE VIE tried to brush over Not Afraid last week and couldn't clear then faded badly. The same move today will get him the front and he may never look back. (4) EXPRESSIVE ACTION took money but broke last out; effort three back was solid. (2) WINEMASTER HANOVER qualified effectively and could be considered underneath at a price.

Race 6

(4) BRICKYARD TOOTS had some decent early and late speed last week vs. better for Ray Baynes. With any sort of smooth trip she should power home. (5) ALEXANDER LUKAS has had some decent local efforts in the past and should fit well with these. (7) TAC'S DELIGHT returns locally in razor-sharp for Allard and MacDonald gets the return drive today.

Race 7

(4) SING OUT has found his stride in a big way and is coming off a lifetime mark; DiDomenico trainee can take another. (3) CAPTURETHEMEMORY was an easy winner vs. similar last week but this mare likes to break every other start so proceed with caution. (9) PIG HUNT actually raced very well three back locally and could threaten at a price.

Race 8

(4) SIGN TO INVERELL A drops in class and could get the best of this camera-shy group. (1) CHARGER BLUE CHIP gets needed post relief and looms a big threat, but has just one win on the season. (5) MIDNIGHT DYLAN N did all the dirty work battling uncovered last week and didn't tire that badly.

Race 9

(5) RURAL ART takes a big drop from the tough Open 4YO class and Sears should handle him aggressively. (1) TERROR TIME A was a good second at odds-on three back vs. better and the Cassar trainee draws best. (3) SAND BENELLI showed good energy last out after a series of flat efforts.

Race 10

(1) STATION THREEOHSIX had a smooth trip last week but never fired his best; he draws the rail in this competitive field and looks like as good an option as any. (3) UF ROCKIN DRAGON was well driven to victory last week by Mark MacDonald and he can certainly repeat. (6) ELECTRIC CHAPEL A is erratic but the talent certainly is there.

Race 11

(7) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY has put in two aggressive efforts since returning locally and there's not much early speed in here; I have a feeling he'll take some sneaky action at the windows. (1) GRAND MASTER has been okay, draws best and certainly is logical. (3) SIMPLY BUSINESS should be good for a share from this spot.

Race 12

(2) JAY BEES GRIN N arrives from Down-under and chased a tough Mosquito Blue Chip in that qualifier; he could be ready at first asking in this very tough-to-figure event. (4) SHADOW PLACE raced well considering the tough trip last week. (6) GALACTIC GALLEON N is one I've been following but he lands outside again and may have too far to come. (5) ULTRA SHOK N is another Bamond improt making his U.S. debut off a decent qualifier.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Sunday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (6th) Taoiseach, 6-1
(7th) Fresh Feline, 4-1


Churchill Downs (5th) Louwala Clough, 5-1
(11th) Prima Star, 7-2


Del Mar (1st) Desert Madam, 8-1
(9th) Durango Flier, 7-2


Golden Gate Fields (1st) Gato Pimiento, 9-2
(3rd) Grumpy Small Mouth, 3-1


Gulfstream Park West (2nd) Ven Holiday, 8-1
(9th) Blind Ruckus, 6-1


Laurel (4th) Sunrise Bird, 3-1
(8th) Going to Market, 6-1


Parx Racing (3rd) Single Broad, 6-1
(9th) Avishcalledvanda, 6-1


Turf Paradise (4th) Del Mar Dixie, 9-2
(5th) Fox in the House, 3-1


Woodbine (4th) Blutarsky, 3-1
(8th) Miss Mischief, 8-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sunday's six-pack

Westgate Super Contest (1,727 entrants-- prize pool is $2.5M)
six most popular picks in Week 10 season record: 27-26-2

6) Seahawks -3 (411)-- Chance to get back in contention in NFC West.

5) Chiefs +6 (426)-- KC lost first meeting with Denver in last minute. .

4) Redskins even (448)-- New Orleans hasn't had their bye week yet.

3) Jaguars +5.5 (466)-- Not a lot of faith in the Ravens here.

2) Raiders -3 (520)-- Scored 34+ points in each of last three games. .

1) Titans +5.5 (620)-- Letdown spot for unbeaten Carolina? .

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Hondo

Another Hondo swoon song

Hondo collapsed in the Week 9 night games, losing on Best Bets with the highly uncooperative Cowboys and Chargers to turn possible greatness into 7-6 mediocrity. But that’s OK; after a 2-10-2 in Week 8, Mr. Aitch will take it.

Giants over Patriots: JPP apparently likes the Giants’ chances against the Deflatriots, saying Wednesday: “We’re gonna win, we’re gonna win. I ain’t saying nothing, I’m just playing.” While that’s seems like a somewhat ham-handed guarantee, history hints that even if Big Blue doesn’t upset the Deflatriots, they will beat the number. Pray for Tommy (Brady, not Coughlin) and Belichick to be thoroughly deflated come 7:30 p.m. Sunday.


Packers over Lions: When it came to pursuing Brady’s punishment for being “at least generally aware” of the Deflategate shenanigans, Roger Goodell latched on like a pit bull, appealing a judge’s ruling in order to protect the “integrity of the game.” But when alleged domestic abuser Greg Hardy had his suspension reduced from 10 games to four by an arbitrator, Goodell turned into a total pussy-cat and let it go. Yet another reason why, at $44 million a year, Goodell is the Most Overpaid Man in the World.

Buccaneers over Cowboys: Pro sports teams, the Jets among them, took in millions of dollars in recent years from the Department of Defense for Salute to Service ceremonies at games that honored soldiers and veterans and created patriotic displays. It makes you wonder, if Goodell and his fellow commissioners were in charge of the Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, how much they would have charged the vets to march?

Panthers over Titans: New York AG Eric Schneiderman didn’t endear himself to many voters by trying to shut down DraftKings and FanDuel, the two powerhouse daily fantasy sports wagering sites. What he should have done, which would have guaranteed his reelection, was shut down the endless barrage of their TV and radio commercials.

Rams over Bears: While Dr. Ben Carson has been put under the mainstream media’s proctoscope as they dig deep to question the truth of some statements in his autobiography, Hillary Clinton is given a pass on her many falsehoods and fabrications. And yet if the two candidates squared off in a game of Liar’s Poker, Hondo is willing to bet media members would overwhelmingly put back the ol’ sniper-dodger and cattle futures expert.

Redskins over Saints: From emauler Ed Buckmir: Despite the allegations about lying, Carson has retained his front-runner status. If only George O’Leary had wanted to be President and not head coach of Notre Dame, he wouldn’t have had to quit.

Eagles over Dolphins: It’s the third straight on the road for the increasingly foul Fish, which according to time-tested handicapping theory warrants some Eagle action.

Steelers over Browns: Word is Hillary is 100 percent behind Obama’s plan to “ban the box” — the question on federal job applications that asks about a person’s criminal history. That’s no surprise; it could be a key factor in The Portly Pantsuit landing a job someday.

Jaguars over Ravens: Former prosecutor-turned TV host Nancy Grace, discussing her new cooking show on various digital outposts and HLN, fondly remembers growing up in a house that was always “full of smells.” That’s not necessarily a good thing, given her history of flatulence as a contestant on “Dancing with the Stars.”

On “Cooking with Nancy Grace,” she intends to show how to prepare her favorite dishes: Baked beans, bean dip, beans and hot dogs, Navy bean soup and chili.

Speaking of CNN-related properties, a headline on cnn.com this week read: “Breast-feeding Mom Fires At Intruder.” Hondo didn’t read the story but assumes the cops had no problem identifying the perp after he had been drenched by mom’s milk super-soakers.
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Mike ZimmerPhoto: Getty Images

Raiders over Vikings: Vikes’ coach Mike Zimmer defied convention against the Rams by taking the wind instead of the ball in overtime. Niners coach Jim Tomsula, for one, never would do such a thing. He doesn’t take the wind, he breaks the wind.

Broncos over Chiefs: From BarkingMut, aka the HondoNation SoBe Bureau Chief: Bronco DB Aqib Talib, who was suspended for a game because he gave Colts’ TE Dwayne Allen a Three-Stooges-style poke in the eye, is looking forward to playing the Jets so he can do the same thing to Kerley.

Cardinals over Seahawks: New York State has been named No. 1 in public corruption with 14 officials having been run out of office since 2012, according to the Center for Public Integrity. There likely would have been many more if Governor Cuomo hadn’t dismantled the Moreland Commission he created to root out corruption.

Bengals over Texans: According to the Center for Disease Control, 38 percent of women in the U.S. are obese. Even though it sounds like BS, sources say Bravo is considering adding a new show to its “real housewives” franchise: “The Real Fat Housewives of America.”

BEST BETS: Packers, Eagles, Steelers.

THURSDAY: Jets. (L)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Indian Cowboy

Green Bay -11.5

Awesome, the front office essentially got fired for the Lions except for the coaching staff. It seems as Caldwell is good for now. But this Lions team now runs into a very angry and frustrated Packer team. This is a team that had an embarrassing situation on the sidelines with Ha Ha Clinton-Dix arguing with Peppers, Raji pushing him to the wayside and it saw a Packer team that had Rodgers throw an uncharacteristic pick and slam his laptop down on national television. And the Packers still nearly won the game despite being down big in the contest. This team has a lot of pride. And the Packers always seem to bounce-back when they are faced with adversity as it doesn't seem which individual gets hurt or how bad the previous loss was. This is a team that doesn't have Nelson and still is finding a way to be 6-2 and comes off probably its most frustrating loss of the year. With the Lions struggling this year, sitting at 1-7 and facing a Pack team that is going to be highly motivated, we will take the home favorite here as we will also side with the public which is a rarity for us. We like Green Bay by a rout in this division contest as we have them winning by 17 or more and in particular we believe their defense will be stout this week coming off a horrendous defensive outing at Carolina.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Rob Veno

Kansas City/ Denver Over 42

Things change quickly in the NFL and there’s a different feel about Denver than there was just four days ago when they were 7-0. Obviously the loss to Indianapolis which was the late afternoon national game drew a lot of viewers. That negative perception of the Broncos combined with the losses of star defensive players DE DeMarcus Ware (back) and CB Aqib Talib (suspension) have taken the opening line of -7 down to -6 or even -5.5 depending on the outlet. Kansas City meanwhile is rested off of a bye and two consecutive victories prior to it. There’s certainly a sense of atonement in the Chiefs locker room after the unbelievable way they gift wrapped their Week 2 contest to Denver so expect them to be as motivated as possible for this divisional rematch.

Denver’s defense looked average for the first time last week and without a pair of their top players, it may make this week a bit difficult too.The Broncos like to apply consistent pressure up front by relying on their corners to play tight man coverage. Minus Talib, second-year nickel back Bradley Roby will be thrust into a role where he has big shoes to fill. Expect KC to mostly avoid starting CB Chris Harris Jr. and try to pick on Roby or even reserve Kayvon Webster who will take on the nickel role. Luckily for Denver, KC’s passing attack is not as dynamic as the Colts and in their earlier meeting, Chiefs TE Travis Kelce was the team’s leading receiver (4 catches, 58 yards). However, Kansas City does possess legitimate weapons in WR Jeremy Maclin and Kelce who can each do damage. Denver will not have to contend with star RB Jamaal Charles this time after being shredded by him the first time. New starter Chanderrick West has 42 carries for 197 yards and 4.7 per carry his past two games but they were against Pittsburgh without Ben Roethlisberger and the Lions. This is a definite step up in defensive class.

The Broncos offense was hit or miss again last week and they’ll need to be consistently good here against KC’s defense which has allowed just 316 total yards per game in their last four after yielding 397 in their first four. The schedule was more potent in their first four which contained games against high powered Green Bay and Cincinnati but the Chiefs defense has definitely improved regardless. If there is an area to exploit, it’s still the Chiefs secondary which allowed Denver’s starting receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sander to combine for 16 catches and 203 yard in their first meeting. Peyton Manning needs protection and accuracy for all four quarters in order for Denver to win and cover this contest.

KC seems to have most of the situational angles in their favor here and with Denver minus two of their best defensive players, perhaps their offense’s fundamental matchup just got better too. Still, this is at Sports Authority Field on what’s projected to be a nice day and against an angry team that’s beaten them by 7 points or more in each of their last seven meetings. The rush toward the Kansas City side thus far this week is one I find difficult to get behind but what’s more intriguing is the total which now sits at 41.5 at most sportsbooks. Expect Andy Reid to have a solid offensive game plan devised to take advantage of the Broncos’ key injuries (with DE Shane Ray also hurting, Von Miller is the only healthy edge rusher). On the other side, figure Manning to bounce back and attack the vulnerable KC secondary with his WR advantages and look for newly acquired TE Vernon Davis to play a significant role.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

BIG AL

STEELERS

This seems to be one of those seasons where the Steelers can’t seem to catch a break. And it all started the first week of the season when Tom Brady’s 4-game suspension was overturned by the courts, and the Steelers had to open the season against Brady rather than backup Jimmy Garoppolo. Dating back to that first game, the Steelers have yet to play a game where their three best offensive performers QB Ben Roethlisberger, WR Antonio Brown and RB Leveon Bell were all on the field from start to finish. And they won’t have all three together the rest of the way, given that Leveon Bell is out for the remainder of the season, and Roethlisberger also won’t play this Sunday vs. the Browns. Still, we will play on Pittsburgh, at home, on Sunday, as it is 79-45 ATS at home since 1981 off a point spread loss, including 54-21 ATS vs. foes that don’t have a winning record.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

CARLO CAMPANELLA

It's impressive that the Steelers are even 5-4 as they host the Browns this Sunday knowing that they opened the season without their yardage-leader, RB Le'Veon Bell, and then lost QB Big Ben and starting WR Bryant to injuries. On Sunday, RB Bell will be out with a new injury, but will be replaced by a solid back-up in RB DeAngelo Williams. He'll join the Pittsburgh offense, along with QB Roethlisberger, who returned to action last weekend. We find the Steelers at 0-2 at home against AFC North Division rivals this season, losing to the unbeaten Bengals (8-0) and the Ravens. Don't expect these Steelers to get swept this season when hosting division foes, so we're backing them to get this victory against the worst team in the division, Cleveland, who's in the basement at 2-7. The Browns also come off a division loss, getting torched by the Bengals, 31-10, on Thursday Night Football. Must back Pittsburgh with the Browns at 1-4 SU & 2-3 ATS on the road and a money burning 1-10-2 ATS on the road after facing the Bengals.

10* Play On PITTSBURGH STEELERS

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

WILL ROGERS

Seahawks-3

The Seattle Seahawks will host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday Night Football, and this game will go a long way in deciding who wins the NFC West. The Seahawks are two games back of the Cardinals, but Arizona has a much tougher schedule moving forward, including a pair of games against Seattle. My money is on the Seahawks as a small favorite at home.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - The Seahawks have had the better of this rivalry, winning seven of the last 10 meetings, and covering the spread in all seven of those victories. The Cardinals have failed to cover in four of their last five trips to the Emerald City, and the Seahawks are 5-1-1 in their last seven versus divisional opponents.

2. Russell Wilson - The Seahawks quarterback is 28-3 in his career at home including playoffs. All six of his interceptions this season have come on the road, and he had one of his best games of last season against the Cardinals. He threw for 339 yards and two TDs on 20-of-31 passing in a 35-6 blowout win the last time these teams met.

3. X-Factor - The Cardinals are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a bye week.