Sunday 12/6/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Warriors (21-0) at Nets (5-14)

Date: December 06, 2015 6:00 PM EDT

NBA fans expect certain teams to give the undefeated Golden State Warriors a tough game, though it's unlikely they envision those clubs coming from the Atlantic Division.

After the Atlantic leaders again took the defending champions right down to the wire, the Brooklyn Nets take another shot at handing the Warriors their first loss Sunday and ending the best start to a season among America's four major pro leagues.

Golden State improved to 21-0 with a 112-109 win in Toronto on Saturday that had its share of tense moments and was eerily reminiscent of a Nov. 17 home win over the Raptors.

Toronto rallied from a 16-point halftime deficit and pulled within one in the closing minute of that contest before Stephen Curry hit four free throws to close out the 115-110 victory. Saturday's script was similar with the Raptors tightening it up midway through the fourth quarter after trailing by 10 at the break.

However, the script was also the same for Curry in another electrifying performance. The league's leading scorer had 44 points - his seventh game this season with at least 40 - while shooting 14 of 24 overall and 9 for 15 from long range, including back-to-back 3s down the stretch that took the steam out of Toronto's push.

Curry barely overshadowed Raptors guard Kyle Lowry, who scored a career-best 41.

With both Andrew Bogut (back) and Harrison Barnes (left ankle) sitting out, the Warriors got 26 points from Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green chipped in 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists.

The victory was Golden State's 25th straight dating to last season - the NBA's third-longest streak behind the 1971-72 Lakers (33) and the 2012-13 Heat (27). They also passed baseball's 1884 St. Louis Maroons for the best start in the four major pro sports, and one more will tie the 1969-70 Knicks for the best road start in league history at 12-0.

"It's really good," said Curry, who is scoring 32.6 points per game. "Twenty-one different challenges and we've been able to separate each one individually and figure out different ways of winning. It's been fun."

Golden State is 3-0 on a seven-game trip that will offer another stiff test Tuesday at Indiana, but not before the Nets get their turn at Barclays Center - the only place where they've been winning.

Brooklyn (5-14) sits next to last in the Atlantic but has picked up most of its victories during a four-game home winning streak. Golden State has also dropped two straight at Barclays after a 110-108 loss in its most recent visit March 2.

The Nets may like their chances in this one considering they're catching Golden State at the tail end of a back-to-back set and the fact they're the only team this season to push the Warriors beyond regulation, losing 107-99 in overtime Nov. 14.

Curry scored 21 of his 34 points after halftime in that one and Andre Iguodala, who has gone scoreless in two of his last three, hit a clutch 3-pointer in the extra period to lift Golden State. Jarrett Jack scored 28 points and Thaddeus Young had 24 for Brooklyn.

The Nets showed how vulnerable they are to giving up a lot of points Friday against rival New York, allowing 42 in the first quarter of a 108-91 loss.

"Well, that was a nightmare," coach Lionel Hollins said. "We didn't come ready to compete early and they jumped on us."

Brooklyn needs to clean that up against the Warriors, who lead the NBA with an average of 30.2 points in the opening quarter and were ahead 36-21 after the first on Nov. 14.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mavericks (11-9) at Wizards (8-9)

Date: December 06, 2015 6:00 PM EDT

The Washington Wizards pulled off an unlikely win last time out with most of their major frontcourt players missing.

It's unclear if the Wizards will face exactly the same situation Sunday night, but they definitely won't have leading rebounder Marcin Gortat for their attempt to snap a lengthy skid against the visiting Dallas Mavericks.

Gortat is slated to miss at least one more game because of a family emergency in Poland. The Wizards (8-9) were also forced to play without the injured Nene (calf), Kris Humphries (ankle) and Drew Gooden (calf) on Friday against Phoenix.

Seven-footer Ryan Hollins, signed Monday, started at center, but coach Randy Wittman later shifted 6-8 small forward Otto Porter to that spot in a 109-106 win. Despite using as many as four guards at one time, Washington outrebounded the Suns 41-35 and had its second-most points in the paint this season with 50.

Bradley Beal scored 34 points - three shy of his career high - and grabbed nine rebounds while Ramon Sessions provided 18 points off the bench on 8-of-12 shooting.

"We definitely miss our bigs, but when it's a matchup of guards, it's always fun," Beal said. "Who's going to get the most rebounds now? Who's going to want it the most? Cause there's no excuses about height or size or anything.

"Sometimes I think we get caught up adjusting to other teams. We need to make them adjust to us - and we did that."

The Wizards haven't made the right adjustments in recent seasons to top Dallas (11-9), losing 10 in a row in the series and six straight at home.

The Mavericks, of course, boast one of the greatest 7-footers in NBA history in Dirk Nowitzki, and now they also have the 6-11 Zaza Pachulia manning the middle. The offseason acquisition has seven double-doubles in the last nine games and is averaging 10.9 rebounds in that span.

Dallas hasn't lost to Washington since Oct. 27, 2009, and hasn't lost in the nation's capital since Jan. 21, 2008.

However, the Mavericks haven't been at their best lately, losing five of seven. They had dropped four straight on the road before needing overtime to win 115-112 at sub-.500 Portland on Tuesday, and they let an opponent reach triple digits in a season-high third consecutive game Friday in a 100-96 home loss to Houston.

Deron Williams totaled 52 points in those two games, but Wesley Matthews had another rough night Friday with five points on 1-of-9 shooting. Matthews is averaging 11.1 points - his fewest since his 2009-10 rookie season - while shooting a career-worst 34.2 percent in his first 18 games with Dallas after signing a maximum deal in free agency.

"I'm tired of hurting the team," Matthews said. "I'm tired of missing shots."

Matthews is perhaps dealing with the effects of a torn left Achilles suffered in March, and 6-10 forward Chandler Parsons has a minutes limit since his preseason knee surgery.

Matthews averaged 23.5 points in his final two games against Washington while with Portland.

Nowitzki is averaging 11.7 points while shooting a paltry 26.5 percent in his last three meetings with the Wizards, but Dallas has often slowed down Washington's potent backcourt to continue its dominance of this series.

Beal has averaged 13.3 points on 34.5 percent shooting in six career meetings. John Wall's average of 11.0 points in two matchups last season was his lowest against any opponent.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Kings (7-14) at Thunder (11-8)

Date: December 06, 2015 7:00 PM EDT

The Oklahoma City Thunder are on the verge of matching their longest slide of the season, and Kevin Durant is taking responsibility.

Facing the Sacramento Kings should solve their issues for at least one game.

Durant will try to help the Thunder avoid a third straight defeat by continuing their dominance of the Kings on Sunday night.

Oklahoma City (11-8) shot 41.9 percent from the floor while losing its last two games. The Thunder missed 12 of 16 from long range in Thursday's 97-95 loss at Miami, which included 38 lead changes - the most in an NBA game this season.

Russell Westbrook failed to make it 39 as his 3-pointer as time expired rimmed out, leaving him without a point for the final 16 minutes. Durant wasn't much better, missing two 3s in the last 48 seconds.

Durant and Westbrook have combined for 109 points over the last two games, but the rest of the starters have totaled 42 to put the Thunder on the brink of matching their three-game skid from Nov. 2-5.

"We gotta put games together. We gotta put four or five games; good games together," Durant said. "I think we've been too inconsistent and that starts with me. I gotta definitely up the level of my teammates every single time I'm on the court. I gotta do a way better job."

Durant leads Oklahoma City with 28.2 points per game. He's hit that average exactly while shooting 53.3 percent from the floor - 16 of 34 from beyond the arc - over the past five games after missing six with a strained left hamstring.

The Thunder should benefit from a meeting with Sacramento (7-14) since they've won 22 of the last 25 matchups, including all 13 meetings at Oklahoma City while outscoring the Kings by an average of 13.0 points.

Sacramento is surrendering an average of 114.1 points while losing seven of nine games on the road. The Kings fell 120-113 on Saturday in Houston.

"They just answered all of our pushes," said Rudy Gay, who averaged 24.3 points against the Thunder last season. "We thought we had something going and they came back and hit a three, got a dunk or a layup or a foul. We just can't win like that."

They also need more production out of DeMarcus Cousins, who has totaled 30 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks over the last two games while dealing with foul trouble. He fouled out against the Rockets, finishing with 14 points and nine boards.

"I think the foul trouble bothered him from getting into a consistent type of rhythm," coach George Karl said.

Cousins is averaging 13.4 points and 8.1 boards over the last seven games in Oklahoma City.

The Kings are 0-5 this season on the second end of back-to-backs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Hot teams
-- Memphis won seven of its last ten games (3-5HF).
-- Detroit won last three games, by 11-5-7 (4-0 last four HF).
-- 21-0 Warriors covered seven of their last nine games. Brooklyn won its last four home games (4-1HU).

Cold teams
-- Suns lost seven of their last eight games (1-4 last five AU).
-- Lakers lost eight of last nine games (1-6 last seven AU).
-- Mavericks lost five of their last seven games (1-1AF). Wizards lost five of their last seven games (3-1HU).
-- Sacramento lost four of its last five games (4-5AU). Thunder lost last two games by total of 8 points (1-5 last six HF).

Series records
-- Grizzlies won their last seven games with Phoenix.
-- Lakers won their last seven games with Detroit.
-- Nets lost five of last seven games with Golden State.
-- Wizards lost last ten games with Dallas (0-5 vs spread last five).
-- Thunder won nine of last ten games with Sacramento.

Totals
-- Over is 6-2-1 in last nine Phoenix games.
-- Last three Detroit games went over the total.
-- Eight of last ten Golden State games went over.
-- Four of last five Dallas games stayed under total.
-- Nine of last ten King-Thunder games stayed under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Wildcats (5-0) at Tar Heels (6-1)

Date: December 06, 2015 6:00 PM EDT

After making an immediate impact in his return, Marcus Paige will try to keep North Carolina from experiencing a letdown against a high-powered unbeaten team.

The ninth-ranked Tar Heels will also seek to build on their most high-profile victory Sunday night versus Davidson.

Paige showed little hesitancy in his first game back from a broken bone in his right hand and led North Carolina to an 89-81 win over No. 2 Maryland on Tuesday. The ACC's co-preseason player of the year scored a team-best 20 points while making 4 of 5 from 3-point range and had five assists.

"I felt good and I wanted to set the tone with some energy and play hard because I know that is one of the things we have been talking about," Paige said.

With Paige back in the lineup, the Tar Heels (6-1) shot a season-best 53.2 percent and went 9 of 13 from beyond the arc. They also forced a season-high 22 turnovers with Justin Jackson registering a career-best five steals.

"We did some things defensively that we haven't done all year long. Our intensity level was higher and better and more consistent than it was all year long," coach Roy Williams said.

That defense could get a test from one of the highest-scoring teams in the nation, but Davidson (5-0) hasn't faced an opponent anywhere near North Carolina's level while averaging 88.2 points in its best start since 1968-69.

The Wildcats had easily their best offensive performance of the season Tuesday in a 109-74 rout of Charlotte. Jack Gibbs led the way with 41 points on 14-of-17 shooting and went 6 of 7 on 3-pointers with program legend Stephen Curry in attendance.

Gibbs, averaging 26.0 points on 55.4 percent shooting, had Davidson's highest-scoring game since Curry had 43 points against Appalachian State on March 7, 2009.

"We ran our offense really well today and it was the first time we let go and had fun. I definitely benefited from that," Gibbs said.

Brian Sullivan had 23 points for the second straight game, a span in which he's 11 of 17 from 3-point range.

Gibbs and Sullivan each missed eight of 10 shots and went a combined 1 for 11 from 3-point range in a 90-72 loss to No. 6 North Carolina on Nov. 22, 2014. Peyton Aldridge, averaging 18.0 points this season, had a career-best 25 for the Wildcats.

Kennedy Meeks led the Tar Heels with 19 points on 9-of-13 shooting and 12 rebounds in their sixth consecutive win in the series. Jackson had 18 points while making seven of 10 shots and helped make up for a subpar performance from Paige, who had 13 points on 4-of-11 shooting.

North Carolina needed overtime for a 97-85 win in the most recent matchup in Chapel Hill on Dec. 21, 2013. Paige had 17 points despite missing eight of 12 shots and Meeks scored 13 on 6-of-6 shooting. Sullivan had a career-high 33 points and made seven 3-pointers on 14 attempts.

North Carolina has been ranked for each of the last five meetings.

Davidson has lost 22 of 24 against Top 25 opponents but ended a 13-game losing streak in those matchups in the last one, defeating No. 20 Dayton 77-60 on Jan. 20.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Commodores (6-1) at Bears (5-1)

Date: December 06, 2015 8:00 PM EDT

Even a 50-point win wasn't enough to satisfy Kevin Stallings.

Perhaps because he knows his Vanderbilt team is in for a stern challenge on the road Sunday against Baylor in a clash of ranked teams.

The No. 16 Commodores (6-1) showed little jet lag from their runner-up finish at last week's Maui Invitational, throttling Detroit 102-52 on Wednesday night. The offense was fine - William Baldwin IV scored 20 points to pace seven Vanderbilt players in double figures - but the perimeter defense left much to be desired for Stallings.

His team allowed Detroit to hit 11 3-pointers - but only five other baskets overall - after preaching in practice it needed to close out the Titans shooters.

"We came in wanting to take away the three, so when I see they made 11 threes versus us, that's disappointing," said Stallings, who slammed a dry erase board to the floor during a timeout. "Our preparation for two days was lacking. That's atypical of our guys."

It was the second straight game Vanderbilt struggled to defend the perimeter. Kansas went 8 for 16 in the championship game in Hawaii against the Commodores, who had held opponents to 19.5 percent (17 for 87) from 3-point range during their 5-0 start.

Considering No. 25 Baylor is shooting 39.1 percent from beyond the arc and sank 10 of 18 in last season's 66-63 win at Vanderbilt as part of the Big 12/SEC Challenge, Stallings may have a legitimate concern.

"They're good and I hope our guys can embrace that," he said. "It's a big game."

While the Bears (5-1) went 3 for 17 from 3-point range Wednesday night, it didn't matter as they routed Prairie View A&M 80-41. Baylor was unselfish as Lester Medford had nine of the team's 24 assists, and Johnathan Motley shot 11 of 14 to finish with 23 points as he continues to thrive in a supersub role.

'It's fun coming off the bench,' said Motley, who as a freshman last season started every game. 'I get to cheer my teammates on, get in the rhythm of the game on the bench and get hyped on the bench when you're waiting to go in. I just come in with a lot more energy and ready to play.'

The sophomore has made at least 50 percent of his shots in all but one game, connecting at 63.2 percent overall, and is second on the team in scoring at 14.7 points per game.

Senior Rico Gathers has been steady all season and has three double-doubles in his last four games after totaling 15 points and 13 rebounds Wednesday. Gathers has greatly improved his free-throw shooting, sinking 76.5 percent (26 of 34) after entering the season at 58.4 percent for his career.

Vanderbilt also has plenty of firepower offensively - its 85.7 points per game is tied for second in the SEC with Arkansas. While Baldwin (14.4 ppg) and Damian Jones (12.0) are the only players averaging in double figures, the Commodores have nine players scoring at least 5.8 per game.

One of them - freshman guard Camron Justice - could miss a second straight game with a groin injury.

Last season's win was just the second by Baylor in 10 meetings between the teams.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

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

James Madison (-3) won 89-75 at Marshall nine days ago; they were up 28 in second half. Two of Dukes' three losses were at home, including a loss to #278 UT-Martin. #276 Marshall is 0-5, losing all five games by 10+ points; they're 0-3 on road, losing by 10-24-15 points. CAA home favorites are 7-2 vs spread; C-USA road underdogs are 12-21.

Colorado is 5-3 in last eight games with Colorado State, losing two of last three visits here; Buffs won last five games since opening loss to Iowa St, with a win at Auburn. Colorado is turning ball over 22.4% of time, but is shooting 42.3% on arc (#19). State lost its last two games. Mountain West home teams are 11-9 vs spread; Pac-12 road teams are 6-4

Florida State is 4-2, losing last game in OT at Iowa Wednesday; FSU is shooting 58% inside arc, has #29 eFG% but is 0-2 in games decided by less than nine points. VCU is 0-2 vs top 50 teams, losing to Wisconsin, Duke on neutral courts; Rams are forcing turnovers 24.9% of the time. ACC road favorites are 2-5 vs spread; A-14 home underdogs are 1-3.

North Carolina is 6-1 vs #47 schedule; their last four games were against top 80 teams; Tar Heels got Paige back last game- their last three wins are all by 11 or less points. ACC home favorites are 21-14 vs spread. A-14 road dogs are 4-4. UNC beat Davidson last two years by 18-12; Wildcats are 5-0 this year but best teams they've played so far are UCF, Mercer.

Vanderbilt is 7-1 with only loss to Kansas in Maui final; Commodores are making 39.4% on arc, have #4 eFG%- this is their first true road tilt. Baylor made 10-18 on arc in 66-63 win at Vandy LY; Bears are 5-1, with best win over #109 SF Austin- they lost at Oregon by 7. Big X home favorites are 8-8 vs spread; SEC road underdogs are 4-2.

Cal-Irvine is 6-2 with two road wins by total of four points; Anteaters lost 72-69 at St Mary's LY, but 7-6 Nidiaye didn't play- UCI led by 7 in second half. St Mary's is 5-0 with 17-point win over Stanford; Gaels are hooting 65% inside arc, an amazing 46.2% on 3's- they have best 3FG% in country. WCC home favorites are 9-9 againad the spread.

Long Beach State beat New Mexico State 67-53 last night; rare back/back for college team, in non-tourney setting. 49ers are playing fourth game in six nights- they're making 41.2% on arc, just 41.6% inside it. UCLA got huge win over Kentucky Thursday; they're just 5-3, with home loss to Monmouth. Big West road underdogs are 9-6 against the spread.

Washington hasn't played in nine days since rough time in Atlantis; their only win was by 5 over a bad Charlotte team. Fullerton is 6-1 with three road wins; only loss was by 5 at LMU. Titans force turnovers 21.5% of time, have #25 eFG%. Washington has #6 eFG%. Big West road dogs are 9-6 against the spread; Pac-12 home favorites are 19-16.

LMU beat Cal-Riverside last two years by four points each; Lions won all three D-I home games, with wins over Fullerton/Northridge of the Big West. LMU is forcing turnovers 23.9% of time (#14)- #224 Fullerton is bst team they beat. UCR is 4-2 against 5th-easiest schedule in country to this point; they've made 39.7% on arc, are without best player Johns.

Monmouth got upset at Canisius Friday, after beating Notre Dame, USC and UCLA to get national ink; Hawks won/covered all four games with Niagara, winning 85-74/66-50 in two visits here. Monmouth still hasn't played at home. Niagara is 3-5 after upsetting Quinnipiac Friday; they're turning ball over 21.4% of time, but won two of three home games.

Manhattan/Marist both got crushed in league games Friday; Jaspers are off to 1-4 start with all four losses by 13+ points- they force turnovers 26.1% of time, still have #336 eFG% defense- thats bad. Marist lost last six games to Manhattan, losing by 22-13-16 points LY; Red Foxes lost four of first five games, losing by 26 at Vermont, 7 at Kent State.

St Peter's won eight of last ten games with Siena, winning last three by 8-13-14 points; Saints lost last five visits here, by 8-7-10-13-8. Peacocks are 2-4 but upset Rider in MAAC opener; three of Peacocks' four losses are by 3 or less points. Siena won five of last six games; they're turning ball over 22.2% of time, have road wins at #315 Bryant, #177 Bucknell.

San Diego State-San Diego are playing outdoors at Petco Park; Aztecs won last nine series games- they're 5-3 this year after tense 76-72 win at Long Beach Tuesday. State is turning ball over 21.6% of time- defense is a constant (#43 eFG%). Toreros have new coach, are 1-5 vs D-I teams, with only win over Drexel; Mountain West favorites are 14-12.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL SUNDAY INJURY REPORT
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

ARIZONA CARDINALS at ST. LOUIS RAMS

ARIZONA CARDINALS

--Out: RB Andre Ellington (toe), CB Jerraud Powers (calf), DT Frostee Rucker (ankle)

--Doubtful: DT Cory Redding (ankle)

--Questionable: WR Michael Floyd (hamstring)

--Probable: WR John Brown (hamstring), G Jonathan Cooper (knee), WR Larry Fitzgerald (ankle), S Tony Jefferson (thigh), CB Patrick Peterson (ankle), DT Ed Stinson (groin)

ST. LOUIS RAMS

--Out: T Andrew Donnal (knee)

--Doubtful: CB Trumaine Johnson (thigh), DE Robert Quinn (back), K Greg Zuerlein (right hip)

--Questionable: QB Case Keenum (concussion)

--Probable: T Rob Havenstein (calf)

ATLANTA FALCONS at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

ATLANTA FALCONS

--Out: K Matt Bryant (right quadriceps), TE Tony Moeaki (hamstring)

--Probable: G Chris Chester (shoulder), LB Justin Durant (ankle), RB Devonta Freeman (concussion), LB Brooks Reed (knee), DT Paul Soliai (calf), LB Nathan Stupar (neck)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

--Out: DE George Johnson (calf), DE Jacquies Smith (hamstring)

--Doubtful: LB Bruce Carter (concussion), DT Gerald McCoy (hand)

--Questionable: T Gosder Cherilus (knee), TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins (shoulder), TE Luke Stocker (back)

--Probable: C Joe Hawley (neck), WR Vincent Jackson (knee), CB Mike Jenkins (quadriceps), G Ali Marpet (ankle), S Keith Tandy (concussion)

BALTIMORE RAVENS at MIAMI DOLPHINS

BALTIMORE RAVENS

--Out: TE Maxx Williams (concussion)

--Doubtful: WR Marlon Brown (back), T Eugene Monroe (shoulder)

--Probable: DE Chris Canty (not injury related), G Kelechi Osemele (knee), LB Daryl Smith (not injury related), T Ricky Wagner (not injury related)

MIAMI DOLPHINS

--Out: T Ja'Wuan James (toe), WR Rishard Matthews (ribs), DT Earl Mitchell (calf)

--Questionable: C Mike Pouncey (foot), WR Kenny Stills (ankle)

--Probable: RB Jay Ajayi (shoulder), T Branden Albert (not injury related), S Shamiel Gary (foot), LB Jelani Jenkins (ankle), WR Jarvis Landry (knee), LB Chris McCain (hip), LB Koa Misi (abdomen), DT Jordan Phillips (shoulder), LB Kelvin Sheppard (hamstring), TE Dion Sims (neck)

CAROLINA PANTHERS at NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

CAROLINA PANTHERS

--Out: DE Mario Addison (ankle), CB Charles Tillman (knee)

--Probable: WR Corey Brown (shoulder), DE Kony Ealy (neck), DT Dwan Edwards (ankle), DT Star Lotulelei (ankle)

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

--Out: DT John Jenkins (concussion)

--Doubtful: WR Willie Snead (calf)

--Questionable: T Terron Armstead (knee), G Jahri Evans (ankle)

--Probable: WR Marques Colston (not injury related), LB Dannell Ellerbe (hip), LB David Hawthorne (thigh), RB Mark Ingram (shoulder), LB Hau'oli Kikaha (ankle), S Jamarca Sanford (hip), CB Damian Swann (concussion)

CINCINNATI BENGALS at CLEVELAND BROWNS

CINCINNATI BENGALS

--Doubtful: TE Tyler Eifert (neck), CB Chris Lewis-Harris (ribs)

--Questionable: CB Leon Hall (back), S George Iloka (groin), CB Adam Jones (foot)

--Probable: LB Vontaze Burfict (knee), CB Dre Kirkpatrick (ankle), LB Emmanuel Lamur (ankle), T Andre Smith (not injury related)

CLEVELAND BROWNS

--Out: WR Taylor Gabriel (concussion), CB Justin Gilbert (concussion), CB Joe Haden (concussion), WR Andrew Hawkins (concussion)

--Questionable: G Joel Bitonio (ankle), LB Nate Orchard (groin), DE Randy Starks (knee)

--Probable: DE Armonty Bryant (elbow), QB Johnny Manziel (right elbow)

DENVER BRONCOS at SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

DENVER BRONCOS

--Out: QB Peyton Manning (foot), S T.J. Ward (ankle), LB DeMarcus Ware (back), DT Sylvester Williams (ankle)

--Questionable: WR Bennie Fowler (ankle), G Louis Vasquez (groin)

--Probable: TE Owen Daniels (knee), CB Lorenzo Doss (illness), TE Virgil Green (finger), T Ryan Harris (knee), RB Ronnie Hillman (tooth), WR Cody Latimer (not injury related), G Evan Mathis (ankle), LB Corey Nelson (not injury related), QB Brock Osweiler (quadriceps), C Matt Paradis (ankle, finger), WR Emmanuel Sanders (ankle, finger), T Michael Schofield (finger), DE Vance Walker (shoulder)

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

--Out: T King Dunlap (ankle), G D.J. Fluker (concussion)

--Questionable: LB Jeremiah Attaochu (chest), DT Sean Lissemore (shoulder), DT Corey Liuget (foot)

--Probable: TE Ladarius Green (ankle), T Chris Hairston (abdomen), QB Philip Rivers (foot)

HOUSTON TEXANS at BUFFALO BILLS

HOUSTON TEXANS

--Probable: RB Alfred Blue (back), LB Max Bullough (shoulder, hamstring), LB Akeem Dent (hamstring), WR DeAndre Hopkins (hamstring), CB Kareem Jackson (ankle), CB Charles James (foot), C Ben Jones (hand), CB Johnathan Joseph (knee), LB Whitney Mercilus (back), T Derek Newton (elbow), LB John Simon (groin), G Xavier Su'a-Filo (shoulder), DE J.J. Watt (groin)

BUFFALO BILLS

--Out: LB Nigel Bradham (ankle), G John Miller (ankle), RB Karlos Williams (shoulder)

--Doubtful: T Seantrel Henderson (illness)

--Probable: WR Marcus Easley (concussion), T Cordy Glenn (back), S Bacarri Rambo (knee), QB Tyrod Taylor (right shoulder), DE Mario Williams (foot)

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS at TENNESSEE TITANS

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

--Out: RB Toby Gerhart (groin), WR Allen Hurns (concussion, foot, though), LB Dan Skuta (groin)

--Questionable: RB Bernard Pierce (calf), WR Neal Sterling (illness), WR Bryan Walters (back)

--Probable: DE Chris Clemons (not injury related), S Johnathan Cyprien (abdomen), S Josh Evans (concussion), TE Marcedes Lewis (ankle), DT Roy Miller (knee), K Jason Myers (back)

TENNESSEE TITANS

--Out: DT Mike Martin (knee), RB Dexter McCluster (knee)

--Questionable: S Marqueston Huff (hamstring), LB Derrick Morgan (shoulder)

--Probable: TE Anthony Fasano (shoulder), DT Sammie Lee Hill (knee), DT Al Woods (ankle)

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS at OAKLAND RAIDERS

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

--Out: S Husain Abdullah (neck), LB Justin Houston (knee), C Mitch Morse (concussion), WR De'Anthony Thomas (concussion)

--Questionable: G Jeff Allen (ankle), DE Allen Bailey (calf)

--Probable: P Dustin Colquitt (right knee), WR Chris Conley (hand), CB Marcus Cooper (thumb), DE Mike Devito (shoulder), T Eric Fisher (neck), LB Dee Ford (back), LB Tamba Hali (knee), TE Travis Kelce (groin), LB Joshua Mauga (heel), RB Spencer Ware (hamstring), RB Charcandrick West (hamstring)

OAKLAND RAIDERS

--Out: LB Neiron Ball (knee), CB Keith McGill (ankle)

--Doubtful: C Rodney Hudson (ankle), RB Taiwan Jones (knee)

--Questionable: CB Neiko Thorpe (knee)

--Probable: S Charles Woodson (shoulder)

NEW YORK JETS at NEW YORK GIANTS

NEW YORK JETS

--Out: CB Darrelle Revis (concussion)

--Doubtful: S Dion Bailey (ankle), CB Marcus Williams (knee)

--Questionable: LB Calvin Pace (abdomen)

--Probable: WR Eric Decker (knee), QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (left thumb), C Nick Mangold (hand), WR Brandon Marshall (toe, ankle), LB Trevor Reilly (knee), CB Buster Skrine (shoulder)

NEW YORK GIANTS

--Out: TE Larry Donnell (neck), LB Devon Kennard (hamstring, foot), S Brandon Meriweather (knee)

--Questionable: T Marshall Newhouse (back), C Weston Richburg (ankle)

--Probable: DE Robert Ayers (toe), DE Jason Pierre-Paul (hand), G Justin Pugh (concussion), RB Nikita Whitlock (not injury related)

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

--Out: RB Ryan Mathews (concussion, groin)

--Questionable: T Jason Peters (back, ankle), DE Cedric Thornton (ankle)

--Probable: WR Nelson Agholor (hip), WR Seyi Ajirotutu (calf), QB Sam Bradford (left shoulder), TE Zach Ertz (concussion), WR Josh Huff (concussion), T Lane Johnson (shoulder), C Jason Kelce (knee), T Dennis Kelly (ankle), S Walter Thurmond (hamstring, calf)

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

--Out: WR Julian Edelman (foot), TE Rob Gronkowski (knee)

--Questionable: WR Danny Amendola (knee), S Patrick Chung (foot), CB Justin Coleman (hand), LB Jamie Collins (illness), DT Dominique Easley (ankle), LB Dont'a Hightower (knee), TE Michael Williams (knee)

--Probable: DT Alan Branch (elbow), T Marcus Cannon (toe), TE Scott Chandler (knee), DE Chandler Jones (abdomen)

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS at CHICAGO BEARS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

--Out: TE Garrett Celek (ankle), RB Carlos Hyde (foot)

--Probable: DT Arik Armstead (shoulder), TE Blake Bell (finger), WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring), G Alex Boone (triceps), LB Navorro Bowman (shoulder, finger), LB Ahmad Brooks (toe), DT Quinton Dial (shoulder), WR Bruce Ellington (wrist), DT Tony Jerod-Eddie (hip), CB Dontae Johnson (hamstring), T Erik Pears (knee), CB Keith Reaser (ankle), WR Torrey Smith (back), S Jaquiski Tartt (knee), LB Michael Wilhoite (ankle)

CHICAGO BEARS

--Out: WR Marquess Wilson (foot)

--Questionable: DT Bruce Gaston (illness), TE Zach Miller (ribs), S Antrel Rolle (knee), WR Eddie Royal (knee)

--Probable: TE Martellus Bennett (ribs), RB Ka'Deem Carey (concussion), QB Jay Cutler (illness), T Kyle Long (neck), LB Pernell McPhee (knee)

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS at MINNESOTA VIKINGS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

--Out: DE Demarcus Dobbs (concussion), DT Jordan Hill (toe), RB Marshawn Lynch (abdomen), WR Paul Richardson (hamstring)

--Questionable: CB Marcus Burley (ankle), RB Will Tukuafu (concussion)

--Probable: DE Michael Bennett (not injury related), CB Jeremy Lane (knee), C Patrick Lewis (knee), S Earl Thomas (hip)

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

--Out: DT Linval Joseph (foot), S Andrew Sendejo (knee)

--Questionable: LB Anthony Barr (hand, groin), S Harrison Smith (knee)

--Probable: S Robert Blanton (ankle), CB Trae Waynes (ankle)

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS at PITTSBURGH STEELERS on Sunday night

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

--Out: T Anthony Castonzo (knee), WR Phillip Dorsett (ankle), LB Jerrell Freeman (hamstring), QB Andrew Luck (abdomen, kidney), G Hugh Thornton (elbow)

--Questionable: C Khaled Holmes (fibula)

--Probable: S Mike Adams (ankle, hamstring), CB Vontae Davis (ankle), LB D'Qwell Jackson (not injury related), CB Gregory Toler (not injury related), LB Erik Walden (heel)

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

--Out: LB Sean Spence (hamstring)

--Questionable: TE Heath Miller (rib)

--Probable: S Will Allen (ankle), WR Martavis Bryant (hip), LB James Harrison (knee), S Michael Mitchell (knee), QB Ben Roethlisberger (concussion), LB Ryan Shazier (concussion), TE Matt Spaeth (knee)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Gridiron Angles - Week 13
By Vince Akins

NFL PLAY ON ATS TREND:

-- The Bills are 12-0 ATS (12.50 ppg) since September 16, 2012 after a road loss where they allowed at least 100 yards rushing.

NFL PLAY AGAINST TREND:

-- The 49ers are 0-10 ATS (-11.65 ppg) since November 2000 as a dog of more than three points after allowing at least 22 first downs in a home game.

TOP NFL PLAYER TREND:

-- The Vikings are 0-7 OU since December 21, 2008 after a road win where Adrian Peterson ran for at least 100 yards.

NFL O/U OVER TREND:

-- The Bears are 12-0 OU (11.25 ppg) since November 28, 2010 after a win where they had less than 300 total yards.

NFL O/U UNDER TREND:

-- The Cardinals are 0-12-1 OU (-8.38 ppg) since September 21, 2008 on the road after a win in which passing for three times as many yards as they rushed for.

NFL BIBLE ACTIVE TREND:

-- The Jaguars are 8-0 ATS vs a divisional opponent when they host a divisional opponent next.

Trends are verified using Sports Data Query Language (SDQL)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Football Predictions: Week 13 Opening Line Report and Picks
by Alan Matthews

If you were an NFL general manager -- or, shoot, just your own fantasy football GM -- and I told you for the rest of this season you could have one of three quarterbacks to start for your team and offered Matt Hasselbeck, Brock Osweiler and Matt Ryan, the choice is easy, right? It has to be Ryan.

Uh, not so fast.

The Atlanta Falcons were one of the early-season darlings of the NFL with a 5-0 record, but they have dropped four in a row and five of six. They should have lost at home in Week 5 to Washington but escaped in overtime, and the only win in that stretch was 10-7 against a terrible Tennessee team that didn't have Marcus Mariota. The main culprit for this slide is clearly Ryan, to the point that first-year head coach Dan Quinn might have a decision to make soon. And the irony of that is Quinn targeted the Atlanta job all along because the team had a franchise quarterback like Ryan in place.

The Falcons were beaten 20-10 at home by Minnesota on Sunday. Ryan wasn't good again, throwing for 230 yards, one TD and two interceptions. A big chunk of that yardage and the only score was in garbage time. He made one of the game's crucial plays by throwing one of those picks in to heavy coverage in Minnesota's end zone. That was his league-worst fourth red-zone interception on the season; Ryan had none last year. In the past seven games, Ryan has 10 touchdowns compared to 11 turnovers. Remember, this guy has maybe the NFL's best receiver to throw to in Julio Jones.

The Falcons won't be cutting Ryan or anything. He will make $23.75 million next season, including $18.4 million in dead money - money that would count against the cap whether the Falcons cut Ryan or not. Ryan is set to make $23.75 million in 2017 and $21.65 million in 2018, the final year of his deal. But it's time to wonder if he really is a franchise quarterback. Atlanta is +2.5 this week at Tampa Bay.

Here are some Week 13 games and opening lines that caught my eye. As usual, I won't touch on the Thursday game, my Sunday featured game (likely Chiefs-Raiders) or the Monday nighter.

Broncos at Chargers (+4.5, 43.5): I mentioned Osweiler above because he is now 2-0 as a starter after Denver beat New England 30-24 in overtime in the snow Sunday night to end the Patriots' chances at another unbeaten regular season. There's just no way now that the Broncos can go back to Peyton Manning, even if he gets healthy, ahead of Osweiler barring injury. Osweiler isn't perfect as he sometimes holds the ball too long, but he looks like Denver's future at the position. He was 23-for-42 for 270 yards, a TD and a pick against the NFL's No. 1 scoring defense and in pretty terrible weather conditions. He also changed the play in overtime that led to the winning 48-yard C.J. Anderson touchdown run. ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported on Monday that Manning (foot) isn't expected back "anytime soon." I would worry about a major letdown game here in what could be Denver's last-ever trip to San Diego. The Chargers showed some heart Sunday in a 31-25 win at Jacksonville. Antonio Gates had two TD catches and now has 21 career games with at least two touchdown catches, the most ever by a tight end. Key trend: Denver is 7-3 against the spread in past 10 meetings as road favorite. The pick: Broncos, although I'm not super confident about it.

Colts at Steelers (-7, TBA): I mentioned Hasselbeck above because he is 4-0 as a starter this year as Indy beat Tampa Bay 25-12 on Sunday for its third straight win. Hasselbeck threw for 315 yards and two touchdowns without turning the ball over -- he hasn't thrown a pick in three of his four starts. He has joined Warren Moon and Brett Favre as the only quarterbacks to win four consecutive starts after their 40th birthday in the Super Bowl era. Neither Moon nor Favre won five straight. Hasselbeck has a season rating of 94.4, which would be 12th in the NFL were he qualified. By comparison, Andrew Luck's rating of 74.9 is 29th in the NFL. What do does Coach Chuck Pagano do when Luck is healthy and if Hasselbeck keeps winning? Remember, Pagano doesn't have a contract after this season, so he might not feel pressure to hand the keys back to Luck. This game could have big wild-card implications with both Indy and Pittsburgh at 6-5; either the Colts or Texans (also 6-5) will win the AFC South. This total is TBA, and the line tentative, because of the status of Ben Roethlisberger, who is in the NFL's concussion protocol. Last year, Big Ben threw for 522 yards and six TDs in a 51-34 win over the Colts. Key trend: Pittsburgh 5-5 ATS in past 10 as home favorite of at least 7 points. The pick: Steelers if Roethlisberger plays.

Panthers at Saints (+7, 49.5): Trap game for Carolina? The Panthers were all riled up on Thanksgiving because they actually opened as betting underdogs in Dallas, but Carolina dominated in a 33-14 win and got a few extra days to prepare for the Saints and heal up. If Carolina can somehow finish the regular season at 16-0, Cam Newton could definitely steal the NFL MVP award from Tom Brady. The Cats have won 15 straight regular-season games overall. The New Orleans defense played better under new coordinator Dennis Allen on Sunday, but the offense didn't show up in a 24-6 loss at Houston; it snapped a streak of 155 straight games scoring at least one TD for the Saints and ended Drew Brees' 45-game streak with at least one TD pass. How does that offense only manage six points coming off a bye week? I think it's time for Sean Payton and the Saints to part ways after the season. Carolina beat the visiting Saints 27-22 in Week 3. Key trend: New Orleans 5-5 ATS in past 10 as home dog (any opponent). The pick: Saints cover -- hoping for 7.5.

Seahawks at Vikings (+1, 41.5): Still think Green Bay wins the NFC North even though the Vikings now have a one-game lead there. Thus this could be very important for wild-card purposes in the NFC. I fully expect Seattle and Minnesota to take those two spots in whichever order. The Seahawks beat Pittsburgh on Sunday to get over .500 but lost star tight end Jimmy Graham for the season to a torn patella tendon. Graham had 48 catches for 605 yards and two touchdowns. Not huge numbers, but he was Russell Wilson's security blanket on third down. On the season, Wilson targeted Graham more than any other receiver (24 times) on third down. Sixteen of those passes resulted in completions. Graham also has 11 gains of 20-plus yards, which is three more than he had all of last year with the Saints. Key trend: Seattle 5-5 ATS in past 10 as road favorite. The pick: Seattle and love the "under" here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Expert Picks Against the Spread: Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders Odds
by Alan Matthews

With Denver's win last Sunday night against New England, that erased any chance the Broncos wouldn't win the AFC West. So that leaves division foes Kansas City and Oakland chasing a wild-card spot in hopes of returning to the playoffs. The Chiefs last made it in the 2013 season but haven't won a playoff game since 1993. Oakland hasn't been to the playoffs since 2002 when it lost the Super Bowl -- that was the last time the team finished with a winning record.

The red-hot Chiefs (6-5) currently hold down the first wild-card spot in the AFC, something you couldn't have imagined a month ago. They win a tiebreaker currently over fellow 6-5 teams the Jets, Steelers and Texans based on best winning percentage in conference games. Kansas City is 5-2 vs. the AFC. You have to like its remaining schedule as well: vs. Chargers, at Ravens, vs. Browns, vs. Raiders. All teams with losing records. The Chiefs are -400 to make the playoffs and +300 not to.

The Raiders (5-6) currently stand ninth and are 5-3 in the conference. Their schedule the rest of the way is much tougher: at Broncos, vs. Packers, vs. Chargers (final game ever in Oakland?) and at Chiefs. Oakland is -+800 to make the playoffs and -1600 not to. Clearly it has to win this game or it's not happening.

Chiefs at Raiders Betting Story Lines

Kansas City was expected to have one of the NFL's top defenses this season but that was far from the case the first four games of the season in which the Chiefs allowed more than 31 points three times. Since then, only one team has scored more than 18 (yet K.C. lost the first two of those). During this five-game winning streak, Kansas City is allowing only 290 yards per game, which is No. 1 in the NFL in that stretch. However, the most important player on that unit, linebacker Justin Houston, is questionable for Oakland. He has a hyperextended knee. Houston led the NFL with 22 sacks last year and has 7.5 this season along with two picks, one returned for a touchdown. Dee Ford would likely start for Houston; Ford missed the past two games but is apparently ready to go.

Offensively, Chiefs QB Alex Smith is doing exactly what Andy Reid wants him to do: not turn the ball over. Smith has thrown 283 straight passes without an interception, the fourth-longest streak in NFL history. Kansas City is third team in league history with at least five straight games in one season with no turnovers. Smith started a bit slowly, but his offensive line has stabilized. And Smith has six TD passes to wide receivers! Doesn't sound like much, but he had zero in 2014. New addition Jeremy Maclin has caught three of those. Maclin had his best game as a Chief last week in a big win over Buffalo with nine grabs for 160 yards and a score. It appears that running back Charcandrick West will play this week after missing the Bills game with a hamstring injury. Spencer Ware might have passed West on the depth chart with back-to-back big games.

I'll tell you right now that Oakland is my early choice to win the AFC West next season as that team has some really good young talent. Add a key free agent or two and the Los Angeles Raiders will be a force. And moving to L.A. would only help to land free agents. Oakland ended a three-game skid with a 24-21 win in Nashville last Sunday. Derek Carr threw a 12-yard touchdown pass to Seth Roberts with 1:21 left. Carr threw for 330 yards and three scores, his sixth 300-yard game of the season and eighth with multiple TDs. The Chiefs might have trouble getting to Carr even if Houston plays as the Raiders have allowed a league-low 14 sacks.

These teams split last season, each winning at home. In Week 12 on a Thursday, the Chiefs lost in Oakland 24-20. That was a huge result. For one, it ended Oakland's 16-game losing streak dating to 2013. It also ended the Chiefs' five-game winning streak and started them on a three-game skid that would prove a killer to their playoff hopes. Oakland's Latavius Murray finished with 112 yards and two touchdowns (90-yard score) on just four carries. Carr threw for 174 yards and a score. The Chiefs' Smith threw for 234 and two TDs. The Raiders became only the third team since 1970 to beat a first-place team for its first win after losing at least 10 games to start the season. That was the ultimate definition of a trap game for Kansas City. In Week 15 in K.C., the Chiefs won 31-13. Smith threw for 297 and two scores.

Chiefs at Raiders Betting Odds and Trends

Kansas City is a 2.5-point favorite (-120) with a total of 44. On the moneyline, the Chiefs are -145 and Raiders +125. On the alternate lines, K.C. is -3 (+105) and -2 (-125). The Chiefs are 6-5 against the spread (3-3 on road) and 6-4-1 "over/under" (3-2-1 on road). The Raiders are 6-5 ATS (2-3 at home) and 6-3-2 O/U (3-1-1 at home).

The Chiefs are 4-1 ATS in their past five vs. the AFC West. They are 7-2 in their past nine vs. teams with a losing record. Oakland is 4-0 ATS in its past four against the AFC. The Raiders have covered only five of their past 18 after a win. The over is 6-1 in the Raiders' past seven after a win. The favorite is 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings. The under is 7-3 in the previous 10 in Oakland.

NFL Expert Picks Against the Spread: Chiefs at Raiders Betting Predictions

I don't think Houston plays, and he's one of a few defensive players that can alter your betting choice. Tough call here because the Raiders have been very hit or miss at home. The Chiefs, meanwhile, have dominated in two straight road wins. I'll take Oakland and the 3 points. Go under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Odds and Betting Week 13: Line Movements & Last-Minute News
by Alan Matthews

I am very eagerly looking forward to Sunday night's game between Indianapolis and Pittsburgh as well as Monday's matchup between Dallas and Washington ( which I previewed here at Doc's ). Not so much for betting purposes or as a fan of one of those teams. I just want to see how those games can top the endings of the past three prime-time NFL thrillers.

Last Sunday, the Broncos upset the Patriots in the snow, winning on the final play of the game when C.J. Anderson scored on a 48-yard run in overtime to end the Patriots' chances at an unbeaten season. On Monday night in Cleveland, the Browns lost as only the Browns can, getting a potential 51-yard field goal blocked and returned for a winning touchdown by the Ravens with no time on the clock.

And then Thursday night, maybe the most unlikely Hail Mary in NFL history -- and the 61-yarder was the longest ever to win a game. The Packers were dead in the water in Detroit and about to be swept for the first time in 24 years by the Lions. I'm sure you've seen what happened by now as Aaron Rodgers completed the first Hail Mary of his career, throwing it about 70 yards in the air for the shocking TD on an untimed down following questionable Lions facemask penalty kept the game going. Who caught it? Richard Rodgers, whose father was a part of the most unlikely NCAA football ending in history, the "Play" in the 1982 Cal-Stanford game. The elder Richard Rodgers threw two laterals on that kickoff return for Cal. The Packers' Rodgers had more receiving yards on that play than he had in any game prior to Thursday (58).

That result was very big, too, because now the Packers (8-4) seem locks for at least a wild-card spot with a two-game lead in the win column over No. 6 seed Seattle (6-5) and No. 7 Atlanta (also 6-5). The Packers will be rooting for Seattle on Sunday against NFC North-leading Minnesota (8-3).

Here are some line moves or potential game-changing injury notes for Week 13.

Bengals at Browns (+10, 43.5): This line opened as low as 7 at some books but has taken a sizable jump no doubt because Cleveland lost starting quarterback Josh McCown to a season-ending broken collarbone on Monday night. And instead of going back to Johnny Manziel to see if the 2014 first-rounder is worth keeping around after this season, Coach Mike Pettine -- who clearly is just begging to be fired (and he will be on Black Monday ) -- is going with undrafted journeyman Austin Davis at quarterback. Davis looked OK in place of McCown in the fourth quarter Monday and was decent in eight starts last year with the Rams, who were 3-5 under him. But that move still makes no sense. At 2-9, the Browns shouldn't care about who gives them the best chance of winning this season but next. That won't be Davis. The Bengals have outscored the Browns 61-10 in winning two straight in this series. Manziel happened to start both of those. Cincinnati will likely be without star tight end Tyler Eifert, who caught three TD passes in the earlier meeting this season vs. Cleveland.

Falcons at Buccaneers (+1, 46): I examined the Falcons in Monday's Opening Line Report story and how Matt Ryan has been struggling mightily as Atlanta has dropped five of six. I'm not sure why, but the Falcons were 2.5-point dogs then and are now 1-point favorites. Hmm. There are a two injury notes here, but I doubt they are why the line moved (and Bucs are taking a small lean). For Atlanta, top running back Devonta Freeman has been cleared to play after missing last week's loss to Minnesota with a concussion. For the Bucs, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, who leads the team with seven sacks, is questionable after undergoing a hand procedure. Atlanta lost at home 23-20 in overtime to Tampa in Week 8, which started the Falcons' current four-game skid. The Bucs only had 290 total yards to Atlanta's 496, but Tampa forced four turnovers and committed none. Bucs haven't swept this series since 2007.

Cardinals at Rams (+6, 43): This has jumped a point at some books. It might get all the way to 7 as the Cards are currently taking the biggest lean on the board, so if you want to back Arizona do it soon. Could the Cards be looking ahead to next week's quick home turnaround game against the Vikings in a potential playoff preview (I'll have that game preview for you here at Doc's)? The Rams will stick with Nick Foles as their starting quarterback here. Coach Jeff Fisher said that if Case Keenum clears concussion protocol, he will back up Foles. Keenum had to sit out last week with the concussion. Fisher added Keenum will remain the starting quarterback going forward once he is cleared. Bovada offers a Week 13 special on Fisher on whether he is the Rams' coach next season. "No" is -160 and "yes" +110. There's NO CHANCE unless Fisher buys the team like Warren Beatty did with the Rams in "Heaven Can Wait." I'm dropping big money on that prop.

Jets at Giants (+2, 45): The battle for New York -- even though the two play in New Jersey (seriously, make a trick bet with someone when asking how many NFL teams play in the state of New York and bet they don't get it right; the answer is one: Buffalo) -- opened as a "pick'em". We won't get to see a potentially very interesting individual matchup between Jets future Hall of Famer cornerback Darrelle Revis and amazing Giants second-year receiver Odell Beckham Jr. Revis, who is showing signs of age, has been ruled out again with a concussion. That means Antonio Cromartie, who ranks as one of the worst overall corners in the league this year, will be shadowing Beckham. If you are wondering, the NFL single-game record for receiving yards is 336 by Rams' Willie Lee Anderson -- you know him as "Flipper" -- on Nov. 26, 1989. Only throwing that out there.... the Giants' record is 269 by someone named Del Shofner in 1962.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Vikings love home cookin'

Minnesota heads into this contest sitting atop the NFC North with an impressive 8-3 record, sparkling 9-2 mark against the betting line. Owning one of the toughest defenses in the NFL, giving up the second-fewest points (17.6) on 334.4 total yards the Boat-Men will be looking to improve an 8-0 SU, 7-1 ATS streak at home vs teams not named Packers. Also, Vikings have proven to be very difficult to beat at TCF Bank Stadium during the last five weeks of regular season posting a 10-2 SU/ATS record.

Things have not gone as well for Pete Caroll's troops. Although, Seahawks (6-5, 4-6-1 ATS) have shown some spunk the past five weeks going 4-1 (3-2 ATS) the fact remains, two of the victories have come against lowly 49ers and against Romo-less Cowboys. Betting Seattle in last month of the year has been a good choice, the Seahawks have compiled an impressive 11-2-1 ATS record since 2012 including a sparkling 6-0 ATS in enemy territory. One negative, Seahawks have struggle cashing after playing Steelers (1-4 ATS). Most shops have this one a Pick'm with the total at 41.5.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Streaks, Tips, Notes

Houston Texans at Buffalo Bills December 6, 1:00 EST

Texans, largely lead by their stingy defense allowing just 8.7 points/game roll into Ralph Wilson Stadium off four straight SU/ATS wins. JJ Watt and this suddenly gold standard defense can definitely win this game. With Bills seemingly searching for answers having lost two in a row and four of the past six consider taking Texans plus the points. Coach Rex Ryan has stated, we can win the rest of them, but were also a team that can lose the rest of them. Side with the latter quote, Bills have a 1-3 SU/ATS skid at home, 2-9 SU, 1-8 ATS slide after playing Chiefs.

Jacksonville at Tennessee December 6, 1:00 EST

Tennessee remains the only team winless at home (0-6, 2-4 ATS). Looking back, Titans have lost 13 of the past 14 on home turf. The lone victory, against these same Jaguars last year back in October. A repeat ?? Ya never know. But at -2.5 point faves you'll need to cross your fingers with betting numbers Tennessee must overcome. Titans have been poor bets in the series (1-8-1 ATS), just as dreadful as home chalk (1-6-1 ATS). Additionally, Titans enter 0-9-1 ATS down the stretch (Wk13-17).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Cal-Expo

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


Race 4 - Post: 6:00 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 74 - Purse:$2000 - NON-WINNERS OF $750


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 1 PLACER 3/1


# 8 CANTORIA 5/2


# 2 COMMANDER RICHARDS 15/1


PLACER is the most respectable wager in this race. Take a look at this standardbred's average speed number of 78 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a very good bet. With a really good 80 speed rating last time out, will most likely be a factor in this race. Has one of the most competitive win figures in the group of horses and may be able to add to those figures right here. CANTORIA - Had one of the strongest TrackMaster Speed Ratings of the grouping in her last race. I'd recommend using in your bets. COMMANDER RICHARDS - Appears that this nice horse's running style fits well in this race. Very likely will be there at the finish. Pay close attention when Tyler has a race horse moving down in class. Dangerous!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrah's Philadelphia

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


Race 2 - Post: 1:00 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 90 - Purse:$11000 - NW $7,000 IN LAST 5 STARTS 4 YR. OLDS & OLDER LAST START FOR A PURSE OF GREATER THAN 16,000 INELIGIBLE PA PREFERENCE


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 STAR MESSENGER 3/1


# 3 GOOD BET 7/1


# 6 ROCKIN ROBERT 15/1


The consensus in this event is that STAR MESSENGER is the one to beat. His 90 average has this gelding among the top TrackMaster Speed Ratings for this race. Certainly did like this gelding's last race. Ran a solid 91 speed rating. Major player. Gelding has one of the finest win clips in the field of horses and that could be the deciding factor when they hit the wire. GOOD BET - Miller fits this harness racer's style perfectly. They've enjoyed some strong results when working with each other. ROCKIN ROBERT - With a magnificent driver, who has won at a great 19 percent rate this last month, this has to be one of the top selections. Harrah's Philadelphia has been playing to this horse's running style, we're looking for a strong effort.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Los Alamitos (Thoroughbred)

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


Race 3 - Maiden Claiming - 6.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $17000 Class Rating: 75

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 JUST BOOKIN 5/2


# 6 CHICAGO ANGEL 3/1


# 2 CITY BENCH 5/2


I've got to go with JUST BOOKIN. She has been moving soundly lately while recording solid speed figures. With Santos in the saddle guiding her, this filly will most likely be able to break out quickly for this event. Is a contender - given the 63 speed rating from her most recent race. CHICAGO ANGEL - She has been racing solidly recently while recording solid speed figures. Had one of the best Equibase Speed Figures of this group in her last race. CITY BENCH - Has been travelling in the most competitive company of the group lately. Must be given a shot based on the competitive Equibase speed fig garnered in the last outing.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $30000 Class Rating: 71

FOR TWO YEAR OLDS. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF TWO RACES SINCE OCTOBER 6 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE THEN ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000, FOR EACH $2,500 TO $20,000 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 1 GREAT SMOKE 5/2


# 3 SCHLOSSER 7/2


# 7 DIAMONDBACK FIRE 8/1


GREAT SMOKE has a quite good shot to take this race. Is a very strong contender based on figures earned recently under today's conditions. The speed fig of 69 from his most recent race looks strong in here. May best this group here, showing solid figs of late. SCHLOSSER - Strong average speed figures in dirt sprint races make this racer a contender. Has to be carefully examined based on the competitive speed rating posted in the last race. DIAMONDBACK FIRE - This trainer has the strongest return on investment in this field with entries racing at this distance and surface. With Hole getting the mount, watch out for this pony.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Zia Park - Race #5 - Post: 1:44pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $9,500 Class Rating: 50

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 STUNNER (ML=7/2)
#3 LUCKY HEAT (ML=3/1)


STUNNER - This filly is very reliable, frequently finishing in the money. I really like that most recent effort on November 17th at Zia Park where she ended up third. LUCKY HEAT - Juarez's agent must relish anytime Evans gives them a mount; win percent together is terrific. Ran in the last race against a much better field at Los Alamitos (Thoroughbre. The move to a lower class rank should suit her well.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 J D'S VOW (ML=4/1), #2 GRANDFIELD ROAD (ML=9/2), #8 SPARKIE (ML=6/1),

J D'S VOW - If you keep choosing these kind of 'bridesmaid' types, you're going to be dissatisfied most of the time. GRANDFIELD ROAD - Showed very little in the last contest. Really don't expect any improvement today. SPARKIE - Would have to get better off that sixth place finish last time out to make an impact here. You always figure that this animal has a shot to be victorious, but she falters often. This pony ran a mediocre speed rating last time around the track. She shouldn't run much better and will likely get beat in today's race running that number.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #1 STUNNER to win. Have to have odds of at least 7/5 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,3]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Golden Gate Fields - Race #3 - Post: 1:44pm - Maiden Special - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $26,000 Class Rating: 88

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#3 BACK BEAUTY (ML=4/1)


BACK BEAUTY - Have to like the way Bonde has raced this filly back into shape off the layoff. Horse is well spotted in this sprint and I think she'll run well today. Personally, I wouldn't worry about where she finished in her last race (fourth). Should improve right here, with some pretty good odds. Already ran against today's morning line choice on November 15th at Golden Gate Fields and finished ahead of that one. Have to believe she can do it again in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 EXPLICABLE (ML=9/5), #4 SUNSHINE SERENADE (ML=7/2), #1 SMART ATTRACTION (ML=9/2),

EXPLICABLE - Has tasted defeat as the public's choice twice in a row. A repeat is probably in store. SUNSHINE SERENADE - Just don't think she is worth the risk at the morning line odds. SMART ATTRACTION - Hard to wager on any animal to turn things around if there is no wager value to taking the stab. Finished 12th in her most recent race with a somewhat easily forgotten speed rating. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this group.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #3 BACK BEAUTY to win if we can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
None

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass