Sunday 9/25/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cleveland at Miami

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida

The Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback carousel makes its fifth turn in as many contests and 26th in 17 years on Sunday as third-round rookie Cody Kessler gets the nod against the Miami Dolphins at renovated Hard Rock Stadium. Offseason acquisition Robert Griffin III suffered a season-ending injury in the opening loss to Philadelphia and Josh McCown also departed with a left shoulder ailment in Cleveland's 25-20 setback to Baltimore last week.

Kessler's task will be that much harder after promising rookie wide receiver Corey Coleman sustained a hand injury in practice on Wednesday. While the Browns saw an 18-point lead evaporate last week, the Dolphins nearly crawled back from a 28-point deficit in the second half before dropping a 31-24 decision to New England. "I don't know if momentum carries over," quarterback Ryan Tannehill said, "but that feeling we had, just the confidence that we gained throughout that second half of, 'This is how it's supposed to be, this is how we can play when things are clicking.'" Tannehill clicked in his last meeting with Cleveland, throwing for 272 yards and a touchdown in Miami's 23-10 victory on Sept. 8, 2011.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Dolphins -10. O/U: 42.5

ABOUT THE BROWNS (0-2): For all of the gloom and doom in Cleveland's offense, Isaiah Crowell has run roughshod over opponents with touchdowns in three straight games and five of six after his career-long 85-yard score last week versus the Ravens. The 23-year-old finished with 133 yards and looks to exploit the Dolphins' 30th-ranked defense that has surrendered 136.5 per game this season. Then again, Cleveland's 205.0 yards passing per game ranks 27th and the loss of Coleman (team-high 173 yards, two touchdowns) leaves converted quarterback Terrelle Pryor and slot receiver Andrew Hawkins as Kessler's primary threats while Josh Gordon continues to serve a four-game suspension.

ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (0-2): While Cleveland's ground game has excelled, Miami's 27th-ranked rushing attack has gone nowhere fast -- and offseason acquisition Arian Foster's groin injury certainly won't help matters. A combination of Jay Ajayi, rookie Kenyan Drake, Isaiah Pead and Damien Williams is expected to carry the mail for the Dolphins, whose leading rusher is actually Tannehill (52 yards). Top target Jarvis Landry had 10 receptions for 137 yards last week and leads the NFL with 17 catches, but former first-round wideout DeVante Parker (eight receptions, 106 yards in his season debut) has been limited in practice this week with an ailing hamstring.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Browns coach Hue Jackson had his scheduled interview cancelled with Miami in January as the Dolphins targeted Adam Gase, who turned down the opportunity to interview in Cleveland in 2013.

2. Pro Bowl TE Jordan Cameron, who scored a touchdown last week, will face his former team for the first time since departing the Browns in free agency last season.

3. Cleveland has lost 10 of its last 11 road games.

PREDICTION: Dolphins 23, Browns 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Baltimore at Jacksonville

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida

The Baltimore Ravens might want to thank the schedule-makers for their 2-0 start to the season with their victories coming against winless Buffalo and Cleveland. Things could a bit tougher this week when the Ravens play their second straight road game with a visit to the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are also winless on the season.

The Ravens spotted the Browns a 20-0 first-quarter lead before a blocked extra point that was returned for two points turned the tide in what became a 25-20 victory. Knocking out Cleveland starting quarterback Josh McCown also aided the comeback a week ago as Baltimore improved to 2-0 for the first time since the 2009 season. Jacksonville played well in its season-opening loss against Green Bay but then took a couple steps back last week in a blowout loss at San Diego. The Jaguars, seeking their first playoff berth since 2007, are just 12-38 in coach Gus Bradley's three-plus seasons with the team.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Ravens -1. O/U: 47.

ABOUT THE RAVENS (2-0): Almost an afterthought as an offseason acquisition, wide receiver Mike Wallace has scored all three of Baltimore's touchdowns in the first two weeks of the season. The Ravens, however, have received little from their running game (23rd in NFL) with Justin Forsett and Terrance West combining for 152 yards on 47 carries with no scores. "Everybody wants to be pretty, but maybe we’re just not that pretty," coach John Harbaugh said. "But we’re tough."

ABOUT THE JAGUARS (0-2): Quarterback Blake Bortles was one of the league's top passers last year but put up most of his gaudy numbers playing from behind. Last week was no different as Bortles had no touchdowns and three turnovers through three quarters as Jacksonville trailed 35-0. The Jaguars are tied for 28th in the league, allowing 32.5 points a game, and they could be missing cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) and strong safety Johnathan Cyprien (knee/triceps). Running back Chris Ivory (medical issue) returned to practice this week for the first time since Sept. 9 and will be a big boost to the ground game if fit.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Jacksonville beat Baltimore last season when K Jason Myers connected on a 53-yard field goal on an un-timed play following a controversial penalty on the Ravens.

2. Jacksonville added starting C Brandon Linder (doubtful) to a long list of injuries that includes two of its starting three cornerbacks.

3. Ravens LB Elvis Dumervil (foot) expects to make his season debut on Sunday.

PREDICTION: Jaguars 27, Ravens 13

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Washington at N.Y. Giants

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Pro Bowl selections Odell Beckham Jr. and Josh Norman weren't on their best behavior during their last encounter at MetLife Stadium, and the two continued their simmering feud in the summer with repeated pointed jabs over social media. With each star insisting they've moved on from the series of ugly incidents, Norman's intent shifts to getting his new team a much-needed win on Sunday when the Washington Redskins visit the New York Giants.

Five unnecessary roughness penalties, a $26,000 fine for Norman and a one-game suspension for Beckham served as lowlights stemming from Carolina's 38-35 win on Dec. 20, with the result often getting lost in the shuffle. When the 28-year-old Norman departed from the Panthers and signed a five-year, $75 million deal in the offseason, many were quick to circle this Week 3 battle against the NFC East-rival Giants. "I don't shy away from nobody," said Norman, who insisted this week that he wants to shadow Beckham. The emotional wideout, who was so rattled in last year's encounter that he dropped a sure-fire touchdown pass, is averaging 121.3 yards with five touchdowns in three career games vs. Washington.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Giants -4.5. O/U: 46.5

ABOUT THE REDSKINS (0-2): Pointing fingers and bickering behind the scenes is nothing new in the District of Columbia - it is an election year, after all - but those actions reportedly reared their ugly head in Washington's locker room following a 27-23 defeat versus Dallas. Making $19.95 million while playing under the franchise tag, Kirk Cousins is in the eye of the storm after missing key throws and tossing three interceptions -- although coach Jay Gruden said he has "total faith" in his quarterback. The 28-year-old Cousins started off slowly last year before throwing 23 touchdowns against three interceptions in his final 10 games of the season, including 302 yards and a score in the Redskins' 20-14 win over the Giants on Nov. 29.

ABOUT THE GIANTS (2-0): Mild-mannered quarterback Eli Manning isn't interested in the sideshow accompanying Sunday's showdown, as evidenced by his advice to Beckham to "just go play football." Manning has done precisely that by throwing for 368 yards in last week's 16-13 win over New Orleans and will look to eclipse the 300-yard plateau for the third straight game at home. Beckham reeled in eight catches for 86 yards versus the Saints, but has failed to reach the end zone this season despite being targeted a team-high 19 times.

EXTRA POINTS

1. New York CB Janoris Jenkins, who returned a blocked field goal 65 yards for a touchdown last week, slighted Washington WR DeSean Jackson by saying "he's just kind of fast."

2. Redskins RB Matt Jones, who rushed for a 14-yard score last week, is averaging 4.3 yards per carry this season after mustering just 3.4 in 2015.

3. New York's record may be perfect, but it has yet to force a turnover and is ranked 31st in the NFL with a minus-4 turnover differential.

PREDICTION: Giants 27, Redskins 14

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Oakland at Tennessee

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee

The Tennessee Titans will attempt to do something that they haven't achieved since 2013 - win back-to-back games - when they host the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Tennessee bounced back from a season-opening home loss to Minnesota by edging the Lions 16-15 in Detroit last week, scoring a pair of touchdowns in the fourth quarter before making a big defensive stop in the final minute.

While the Titans have scored only 16 points in each of their first two games, their defense has done a stellar job keeping the opposition out of the end zone, joining Seattle as the only teams yet to allow two offensive touchdowns. Tennessee could be in for an offensive bonanza this week, however, as Oakland has allowed more than 1,000 yards over its first two contests. The Raiders followed a high-scoring victory at New Orleans in their opener with a 35-28 loss to Atlanta at home last week, a game in which they permitted Matt Ryan to throw for nearly 400 yards. Derek Carr has passed for 618 yards and four touchdowns in his first two contests while Amari Cooper has made 11 catches for 208 yards but has yet to find the end zone.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Titans -2. O/U: 47

ABOUT THE RAIDERS (1-1): Carr has gotten off to a fine start this season as he entered Week 3 tied for the league lead with 58 completions without throwing an interception. Tight end Clive Walford was one of Carr's favorite targets last week, tying Latavius Murray for the team lead with a career-high six receptions - including one for a touchdown. Khalil Mack, who ranked second in the NFL last season with 15 sacks, remains in search of his first of 2016.

ABOUT THE TITANS (1-1): Considering Oakland's defensive woes, DeMarco Murray no doubt will be anxious to take the field Sunday as he rushed for a career-high three touchdowns in his last meeting with Oakland in 2013 while with Dallas. Marcus Mariota, who recorded one of his four career performances of three or more touchdown passes last season versus the Raiders, looks to build off his game-winning drive against Detroit on which he was 9-of-9 for 74 yards. Tennessee has won only two of its last 17 home games, with both victories coming against Jacksonville.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The Raiders ended a three-game losing streak in the all-time series by posting a 24-21 victory at Tennessee on Nov. 29.

2. Tennessee promoted DB Curtis Riley from the practice squad, placed Chance Warmack (finger) on injured reserve and signed fellow G Karim Barton to the practice squad.

3. Oakland S Reggie Nelson in the only active player to record 30 or more interceptions (30) and at least five sacks (6.5) since he entered the league in 2007.

PREDICTION: Raiders 33, Titans 20

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Los Angeles at Tampa Bay

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

Jameis Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a lot of positive press after looking strong in their Week 1 victory, but those raised expectations took a steep dive after a terrible performance in Week 2. Winston and the Buccaneers will try to bounce back when they host the offensively challenged Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.

Winston went from four touchdown passes and one interception in a 31-24 win at Atlanta in the season opener to one TD and four picks in a 40-7 loss at Arizona the following week. "We haven’t been tested yet this season in that department," Buccaneers first-year coach Dirk Koetter told reporters about the possibility of his team bouncing back, "but the fact that we’re coming into our own home stadium for our home opener, that’s definitely going to be what we’re working for.” The Rams are the only team in the league yet to score an offensive touchdown but were strong enough on defense to pull out a 9-3 win at home over Seattle last week after being shut out by the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. "We need more production out of our offense," Los Angeles coach Jeff Fisher told reporters. "All things point to the quarterback position, but I'm expecting Case (Keenum) to continue to get better in this offense, and we're going to win games and score points."

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Buccaneers -5. O/U: 42

ABOUT THE RAMS (1-1): Los Angeles traded up to the No. 1 pick in the draft to get quarterback Jared Goff, but Fisher insists the team only will play him when he's ready. In the meantime, Keenum ranks last in the NFL among 33 qualifying passers with a 57.8 rating and a 53.8 completion percentage and is guiding an offense that's trying to avoid joining the 1976 Buccaneers as the only teams in the NFL to fail to score a touchdown in the first three games. The weakness in the passing game is not doing any favors for running back Todd Gurley, who is averaging 2.7 yards per carry against defenses stacked to stop him.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (1-1): Tampa Bay lost leading rusher Doug Martin for the next three weeks to a hamstring injury and will lean on backup Charles Sims, with Jacquizz Rodgers as the backup. Sims managed 24 yards on nine carries last week at Arizona and has some experience with Winston in the passing game after hauling in 51 passes for 561 yards and four touchdowns last season. The Buccaneers' defense is struggling, allowing 64 points in the first two weeks, and has yet to force a turnover.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson has caught just six passes and has yet to record a touchdown.

2. Los Angeles CB Lamarcus Joyner played through a broken toe in the first two games and was limited at practice this week.

3. Tampa Bay DE Robert Ayers (ankle) left last week's game early and is questionable.

PREDICTION: Buccaneers 21, Rams 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: San Francisco at Seattle

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington

Only a last-minute touchdown in the season opener prevented an 0-2 start for the Seattle Seahawks, who will look to snap out of their offensive doldrums when they host Chip Kelly and the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Seattle is coming off a lackluster 9-3 loss at Los Angeles, marking the first time it has failed to score a touchdown since quarterback Russell Wilson's 2012 rookie season.

The Seahawks were bottled up by the same Rams that looked completely overmatched in a 28-0 drubbing at San Francisco in Week 1 and have put up 15 points in their first two games. “Yeah, I’m real surprised about that," Seattle coach Pete Carroll said of the offensive rut. "I never would have anticipated that happening starting the season.” The 49ers ranked last in the NFL in scoring in 2015 but are coming off 28- and 27-point performances after reaching 27 only once last season. San Francisco has been unable to solve the Seahawks' defense, losing the last four meetings between the teams while scoring a total of 26 points.

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Seahawks -9.5. O/U: 40

ABOUT THE 49ERS (1-1): San Francisco's dominant win over Los Angeles in Week 1 looked a bit more impressive after the Rams upset Seattle, but its defense was gouged for 46 points and 529 yards by the Carolina Panthers in last week's 46-27 setback. Quarterback Blaine Gabbert was held to 17-of-36 for 243 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions by the Panthers while running back Carlos Hyde managed only 34 yards on 14 carries after churning out 88 yards in the season opener. Tight end Vance McDonald has scored in each of the first two games and had four catches for 65 yards and a touchdown in the second meeting against Seattle last season. San Francisco had three interceptions and two forced fumbles but only three sacks.

ABOUT THE SEAHAWKS (1-1): Seattle's defense is in a familiar perch, leading the NFL in total defense (248.5) and points allowed (9.5), but the offense has been shockingly ineffective with the one touchdown in 22 possessions. Running back Thomas Rawls is off to a slow start with 25 yards on 19 carries and left last week's game with an injury, while Christine Michael has been effective with an average of 5.0 yards per carry, but he committed a costly fumble that blunted a comeback against the Rams. Wide receivers Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett each sustained knee injuries in Los Angeles, but Carroll expects both to play against the 49ers. Seattle's run defense has been stout, giving up an average of 64.0 yards per game.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Wilson has registered a passer rating of at least 100 in five of his last six home games.

2. 49ers LB NaVorro Bowman, who led the league in tackles last season, has at least seven in seven straight games versus Seattle.

3. Rawls was kicked in the shin in last week's loss, but Carroll said he expected him to play.

PREDICTION: Seahawks 27, 49ers 13

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Los Angeles at Tampa Bay

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

Jameis Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a lot of positive press after looking strong in their Week 1 victory, but those raised expectations took a steep dive after a terrible performance in Week 2. Winston and the Buccaneers will try to bounce back when they host the offensively challenged Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.

Winston went from four touchdown passes and one interception in a 31-24 win at Atlanta in the season opener to one TD and four picks in a 40-7 loss at Arizona the following week. "We haven’t been tested yet this season in that department," Buccaneers first-year coach Dirk Koetter told reporters about the possibility of his team bouncing back, "but the fact that we’re coming into our own home stadium for our home opener, that’s definitely going to be what we’re working for.” The Rams are the only team in the league yet to score an offensive touchdown but were strong enough on defense to pull out a 9-3 win at home over Seattle last week after being shut out by the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. "We need more production out of our offense," Los Angeles coach Jeff Fisher told reporters. "All things point to the quarterback position, but I'm expecting Case (Keenum) to continue to get better in this offense, and we're going to win games and score points."

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Buccaneers -5. O/U: 42

ABOUT THE RAMS (1-1): Los Angeles traded up to the No. 1 pick in the draft to get quarterback Jared Goff, but Fisher insists the team only will play him when he's ready. In the meantime, Keenum ranks last in the NFL among 33 qualifying passers with a 57.8 rating and a 53.8 completion percentage and is guiding an offense that's trying to avoid joining the 1976 Buccaneers as the only teams in the NFL to fail to score a touchdown in the first three games. The weakness in the passing game is not doing any favors for running back Todd Gurley, who is averaging 2.7 yards per carry against defenses stacked to stop him.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (1-1): Tampa Bay lost leading rusher Doug Martin for the next three weeks to a hamstring injury and will lean on backup Charles Sims, with Jacquizz Rodgers as the backup. Sims managed 24 yards on nine carries last week at Arizona and has some experience with Winston in the passing game after hauling in 51 passes for 561 yards and four touchdowns last season. The Buccaneers' defense is struggling, allowing 64 points in the first two weeks, and has yet to force a turnover.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson has caught just six passes and has yet to record a touchdown.

2. Los Angeles CB Lamarcus Joyner played through a broken toe in the first two games and was limited at practice this week.

3. Tampa Bay DE Robert Ayers (ankle) left last week's game early and is questionable.

PREDICTION: Buccaneers 21, Rams 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: San Diego at Indianapolis

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

The Indianapolis Colts have allowed 73 points and were shredded by opposing passers in their first two games, but help could be on the way. The Colts hope to have several defensive starters back and aim to pick up their first victory when they host the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.

Indianapolis' secondary has allowed an average of 299 passing yards and yielded a combined 73.6 completion percentage to Matthew Stafford and Trevor Siemian in losses to Detroit and Denver over the first two weeks. Cornerbacks Vontae Davis (ankle) and Patrick Robinson (concussion), as well as safety T.J. Green (knee), all sat out last week but returned to practice on Wednesday and could play this weekend, while safety Clayton Geathers (shoulder) left the loss at Denver but could be back on Sunday. That ailing secondary will be going up against a Chargers offense that put up 38 points in a blowout of Jacksonville last week, led by Philip Rivers' four touchdown passes. San Diego is not without injury concerns, and Rivers will have to dig deep into his bag of weapons after losing Danny Woodhead and Keenan Allen to season-ending injuries.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Colts -2.5. O/U: 51.5

ABOUT THE CHARGERS (1-1): Melvin Gordon is stepping up in the absence of Woodhead and ran for 102 yards on a career-high 24 carries with a touchdown in the 38-14 win over the Jaguars. The second-year running back did not find the end zone in 14 games during his rookie campaign but already has scored three times in 2016 to take some pressure off of Rivers and the passing game. San Diego brought in six-year veteran running back Dexter McCluster this week to help fill Woodhead's versatile role in the passing game and on special teams.

ABOUT THE COLTS (0-2): Andrew Luck (shoulder) was the latest addition to Indianapolis' injury report, though he insists he'll be playing on Sunday. Luck threw four TD passes in Week 1 against the Lions and one at Denver last week but is having some trouble getting on the same page with top target T.Y. Hilton, who has 10 receptions on 23 targets and no touchdowns. The Colts' defense recorded only two sacks in the first two weeks but could be getting some help on the line in the form of tackle Henry Anderson, who torn his ACL last season but is a full participant in practice and is on the verge of making his season debut.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Chargers rookie DE Joey Bosa (hamstring) is practicing this week and is questionable to make his NFL debut.

2. Indianapolis WR Donte Moncrief (fractured scapula) will miss 4-to-6 weeks.

3. Luck struggled to 18-of-30 passing with no TDs and an interception in a 19-9 loss at San Diego in the last meeting in 2013.

PREDICTION: Chargers 34, Colts 31

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pittsburgh at Philadelphia

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Carson Wentz has a chance to become the second rookie quarterback since the NFL merger in 1970 to win his first three starts when he guides the Philadelphia Eagles into Sunday's matchup against the visiting Pittsburgh Steelers. Philadelphia is off to a 2-0 start behind the rookie sensation, but will face a step up in class against the undefeated Steelers in a matchup of Keystone State rivals.

Ironically, Wentz is drawing early comparisons to veteran Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who came out of college displaying surprising mobility for a player his size as a first-round pick in the 2004 draft. "I think that’s one thing with Carson’s strength is he continues to have that vision down the field when things begin to break down," Philadelphia first-year coach Doug Pederson acknowledged. "So, yeah, there are a lot of similarities there." Roethlisberger is off to a fast start, leading the league with six touchdown passes despite the absence of star running back Le'Veon Bell, who is serving the final contest of a three-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. While the Eagles have beaten a pair of winless opponents, Pittsburgh owns victories over Washington and Cincinnati -- two division winners from 2015.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Steelers -3.5. O/U: 46

ABOUT THE STEELERS (2-0): Much as he did a year ago when Bell's season ended prematurely due to injury, running back DeAngelo Williams is filling in spectacularly, piling up an NFL-high 237 yards and two touchdowns on the ground and adding another 10 catches and a score. Star wideout Antonio Brown, who reeled in 375 passes over the past three seasons, was limited to four receptions for 39 yards in last week's 24-16 win over Cincinnati but Roethlisberger completed passes to nine different receivers while connecting with Williams and both his tight ends, Jesse James and Xavier Grimble, on scoring strikes. Pittsburgh is yielding tons of yards through the air (347.5 ppg) but has permitted only 16 points in each of the first two games.

ABOUT THE EAGLES (2-0): Wentz continues to make Philadelphia's decision to trade up and take him with the No. 2 overall pick out of FCS North Dakota State -- not to mention trading away incumbent Sam Bradford -- look wise by becoming the first rookie since the merger to win his first two starts without tossing an interception. Jordan Matthews is the top target for Wentz with 13 receptions and a score through two games while Trey Burton filled in nicely for injured tight end Zach Ertz last week with five catches for 49 yards and a touchdown. Ryan Mathews has rushed for three touchdowns but is averaging only 3.5 yards per carry. The Eagles rank fifth against the pass but could again be without starting cornerback Leodis McKelvin (hamstring).

EXTRA POINTS

1. Brown has 106 catches and 13 TDs in his last 13 games against NFC opponents.

2. Eagles DT Fletcher Cox has 9.5 sacks in his last eight home games.

3. Roethlisberger has thrown for at least three touchdown passes in his last three games.

PREDICTION: Steelers 27, Eagles 16

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: N.Y. Jets at Kansas City

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri


The Kansas City Chiefs aim for their eighth consecutive home victory when they host the New York Jets on Sunday in a matchup of teams searching for consistency. Both squads are 1-1 and looking for a win that could prove pivotal to the playoff picture down the road.



The Jets bounced back from a crushing Week 1 defeat to beat former coach Rex Ryan and Buffalo 37-31 in Week 2, and they’ve had a few extra days of rest following that Thursday night victory to prepare for their next challenge. “The NFL is crazy in that we’re only as good as what we do this week,” Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick told reporters. “We’re not going to sit and celebrate last week, because we have to move on.” The Chiefs are eager to turn the page on last week’s 19-12 loss at Houston in which they managed just 291 total yards and committed three turnovers. The Jets have won three of the last four meetings, but Kansas City handed New York a 24-10 defeat in the most recent clash in 2014 and Chiefs as coach Andy Reid is 4-0 all-time against the Jets.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Chiefs -3. O/U: 42



ABOUT THE JETS (1-1): New York, which is a couple of missed Nick Folk kicks away from being 2-0, possesses one of the league’s top offensive units thus far. Fitzgerald has a bevy of talented receivers in Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker and the emergent Quincy Enunwa, and the addition of running back Matt Forte has provided more balance. The defense has been tough on the run, but the secondary has been susceptible, allowing more than 300 passing yards in each game.

ABOUT THE CHIEFS (1-1): Kansas City has loads of weapons on offense, even with star running back Jamaal Charles having missed the first two games while recovering from last season's torn ACL. Spencer Ware has filled in admirably for Charles, while receiver Jeremy Maclin and tight end Travis Kelce give Alex Smith a pair of reliable targets. The defense has had a tough time stopping the run but has been stout with its back against the wall, as the Chiefs have allowed touchdowns on just 33.3 percent of opponents’ red-zone trips – fourth-best in the league.



EXTRA POINTS

1. The Chiefs have been outscored 34-6 in the first half over their first two games.

2. Marshall has caught a touchdown pass in each of his last five games against the Chiefs, with seven TD grabs over that span.

3. Reid has recorded 174 career wins, one behind his mentor Mike Holmgren for 13th on the NFL’s all-time list.



PREDICTION: Chiefs 27, Jets 24

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Chicago at Dallas

When: 8:30 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

The Chicago Bears lost their starting quarterback in Monday night's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, but don't expect to garner much sympathy from their next opponent. Journeyman Brian Hoyer will step in for the injured Jay Cutler for the Bears, who attempt to avoid an 0-3 start when they visit the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

With starter Tony Romo sidelined by a back injury, the Cowboys were forced to start the season with rookie Dak Prescott, who earned his first victory last week by guiding a late touchdown drive in a 27-23 win at Washington. "He exudes confidence," Dallas owner Jerry Jones said about Prescott, a fourth-round draft pick out of Mississippi State. "He's got a great supporting cast, but he's using it." Hoyer is with his fifth NFL team but has ample experience in pressure situations, starting nine games for Houston last season and 13 games for Cleveland in 2014. "Whether you're the starter or the backup or the third guy, you prepare every week like you're the starter," Hoyer said. "Just prepare like you're going to play and take it one day at a time and come Sunday, we'll see what happens."

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC. LINE: Cowboys -7. O/U: 44.5

ABOUT THE BEARS (0-2): Chicago not only flat-lined in the 29-14 home loss to the Eagles on Monday night, but came away with a slew of injuries on both sides of the ball. In addition to Cutler (thumb), leading wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (knee) did not practice Thursday while the defense is expected to be without nose tackle Eddie Goldman and linebackers Danny Trevathan and Lamarr Houston, who was placed on injured reserve with a torn ACL. Hoyer has a career 15-11 record as a starter but could use a boost from the running game after Jeremy Langford was held to 28 yards on 11 carries Monday. Chicago ranks ninth overall in total defense despite allowing 52 points in two games.

ABOUT THE COWBOYS (1-1): Prescott drew rave reviews during the preseason and has not looked out of place while subbing for Romo, setting an NFL record for the most passes without an interception (75) in a player's first two games. Prescott threw for 292 yards and ran for a touchdown while finding a steady connection with start wideout Dez Bryant, who had seven receptions for 102 yards against the Redskins after opening the season with one catch for eight yards. Rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 83 yards and a touchdown last week, but found himself on the bench during crunch time after fumbling. The Cowboys' defense has been vulnerable to the pass, giving up an average of 276.5 yards.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Bryant needs one touchdown to become the fourth player in franchise history to score 60.

2. Jeffery has a touchdown catch in his of his two matchups with the Cowboys.

3. Cowboys WR Cole Beasley, who scored twice in Dallas' 41-28 win over Chicago in 2014, has 13 catches in the first two contests.

PREDICTION: Cowboys 26, Bears 17

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

New England 300 Preview
By Micah Roberts

Okay NASCAR fans, we're off and running with the Chase underway and nine more to race go until a champion is crowned.

Martin Truex Jr. got it all started with thrilling win Sunday at Chicagoland Speedway that gives him an automatic entry into the next round, and he might be someone to a a look at this week at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

It was Truex's third win of the season and second in the past three races. He's got the momentum going for him and he also gets equipment from Joe Gibbs Racing which has been stellar on these type of tracks this season. He's now 6/1 at the Westgate Las Vegas Super Book to win the Sprint Cup title with Kevin Harvick still the 5/1 favorite.

New Hampshire is a flat one-mile layout and the set-up requirements make it similar to Phoenix and Richmond. Between the three tracks we have four races of data to review and a Gibbs driver has won the last three, including two weeks ago at Richmond when Denny Hamlin won and Truex finished third while leading a race-high 193 laps. Let's face it, Gibbs is good everywhere winning 14 of the 27 races this season, but these type of tracks might be their best.

The Gibbs gang also won the first New Hampshire race this season in July with Matt Kenseth and Kyle Busch led the most laps with 133. In April, Carl Edwards led a race-high 151 laps in a win at Richmond with Busch finishing second and leading 78 laps. That's pure dominance and you can pick almost any one of them to win and feel good about it because they're all somewhat equal.

The only race on these types they didn't win at was Phoenix just because Harvick always wins there, but the margin of victory was the closest of the season over runner-up Edwards. Hamlin was third, Busch was fourth and Kenseth seventh. You kind of get the idea. They're going to be the cars to beat and it's been that way for some time at New Hampshire as they've won the last three races there and five of the last eight.

Chevrolet had been on a six race win streak at New Hampshire beginning in the fall of 2009, but they're winless there in the last eight. The best hope they have this week is with Harvick who last won there in 2006, a season when won four times between the six races on these type of tracks.

Jimmie Johnson hasn't won a race anywhere since March at Fontana, but he's got three wins with a 10.5 average finish in 29 NHMS starts. Tony Stewart is a three-time winner and finished second there in July. Kurt Busch has three wins there over his career, the last coming in 2008. Maybe you can make a case for Kyle Larson or Chase Elliott to win, but that's it for the top Chevy contenders to win.

Team Penske swept the 2014 season for Ford with Brad Keselowski and Joey Logano. For Logano it was his second win on the track, the first coming in 2009 which was his first career Cup win. Logano was third at NHMS in July.

There's no reason to look anywhere else but Joe Gibbs racing, so pick a driver, any driver from that stable and you should fare well at the bet window.

Top-5 Finish Prediction:

1) #20 Matt Kenseth (8/1)
2) #11 Denny Hamlin (8/1)
3) #18 Kyle Busch (6/1)
4) #19 Carl Edwards (8/1)
5) #78 Martin Truex Jr. (7/1)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

EPL Notebook - Week 6
By Chris David

Week 5 Recap

Liverpool (+250) opened up Week 5 with an impressive 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Reds have now earned 10 points against quality opponents and the lone loss came to a much weaker foe in Burnley.

Despite Chelsea losing, home teams stepped up last weekend and produced an 8-2 record with no draws. For the second straight weekend, total bettors watched the ‘over’ produce an 8-2 record behind a combined 36 goals posted on the scoreboard.

Future Update

Manchester City (8/13) remains the top betting choice to win the Premier League and the odds continue to get shorter. Liverpool (5/1) jumped Chelsea (15/2) after last week’s win while Arsenal (10/1) and Manchester United (10/1) round out the top 10.

Everton, who is also unbeaten at 4-1-0, is starting to receive attention at the betting counter as well. Prior to Week 1, the Toffees had 80/1 odds to win this year’s title and those odds have been trimmed to 50/1 after five weeks.

Game to Watch – Chelsea at Arsenal (NBCSN, 12:30 p.m. ET)

A pair of 3-1-1 clubs will square off at Emirates Stadium this Saturday and the loser could be in trouble and possibly six points behind the leader, Manchester City.

Arsenal (+135) is listed as the short favorite over Chelsea (+200) and playing a primetime home game should give them a boost but many wonder if the club is just a bully.

The Gunners (0-1-1) have struggled versus quality foes in Liverpool and Leicester City, while racking up nine goals and three wins versus lesser competition. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s biggest test of the season came last week and it faltered in a 2-1 setback to Liverpool at home.

Chelsea has owned this series recently, unbeaten in the last nine EPL matches (6-3-0) against Arsenal and that includes a 2-3-0 road mark.

The Blues (5-0) and Gunners (4-1) have been strong ‘over’ leans this season and this week’s total (2 ½) is shaded to the ‘over’ (-130).

Largest Favorite

Bettors could be hesitant to back Liverpool (-450) on Saturday when it hosts Hull City from Anfield. As mentioned above, the Reds have been great versus top-tier opponents but the lone loss came to a club sitting just above the drop zone.

Newly promoted Hull City (+1250) started the season with back-to-back wins but have gone 0-2-1 in their last three and have been outscored 6-2 during this span.

Dating back to last January, Liverpool has gone 7-6-1 in 14 games from Anfield and they’ve only been held scoreless in one of those matches, which was the loss to Manchester United (1-0).

Historically, Liverpool has never lost a home game to Hull in 10 encounters (8-2-0).

Road Favorites

There are three teams laying ‘chalk’ as visitors this weekend and two of them make sense on paper, while the other matchup is based on the early play of the opponent.

Everton (+110) heads to Bournemouth on Saturday morning and I would be surprised to see many goals in this game. The Toffees have only surrendered three goals this season and the Cherries offense have managed to hit the net three times. However, the pair played three times last season in all competitions and the outcomes were 3-3, 2-0, 2-1 with Everton (2-1-0) owning the edge.

Will the Manchester City (-260) machine stay perfect this weekend at Swansea City. Unfortunately for the Swans, they’ve gone 1-2-9 in the last 12 versus the Citizens from Liberty Stadium. Coincidentally, the pair just played a League Cup game this past Wednesday at the same venue and City captured a 2-1 decision. Striker Sergio Aguero returns to City this weekend after missing the past three league games.

Crystal Palace (+160) isn’t a huge favorite for this matchup but it’s still laying wood against Sunderland (+185), who is off to a 0-1-4 start while being outscored 9-3. The Black Cats earned four points against Palace last season and have scored in each of the last four meetings.

Wrong Favorite?

Stoke City (+130) sits in last place of the Premier League with one point (0-1-4) and a minus-11 goal differential (3-14) is very disturbing. Despite those facts, the Potters are favored over West Bromwich Albion this Saturday at home. The Baggies have won three straight in this series and have gone 1-1 on the road this season, both ‘under’ winners. Stoke hasn’t won at Bet365 Stadium this season and it's been outscored 8-1 to heavyweights Man City and Tottenham.

Monday Matchup (NBCSN, 3:00 p.m.)

Two league games have been played on Monday this season and three combined goals have been scored in each contest. Watford visits Burnley this week and the total is sitting at 2 ½ but shaded heavily to the ‘under’ (-145). The Clarets have seen the ‘under’ go 2-0 at home and their offense (3 goals) could have you leaning low again here but the Hornets have scored in all five of their games and they haven’t posted a clean sheet either.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

WNBA Future Odds

Odds to Win 2016 WNBA Finals (10/31/16)

Team Odds

Minnesota Lynx 7/5
Los Angeles Sparks 11/5
New York Liberty 6/1
Chicago Sky 10/1
Atlanta Dream 14/1
Phoenix Mercury 15/1
Indiana Fever 15/1
Seattle Storm 30/1

How To Bet WNBA Futures

The “Odds to Win” wager in soccer is also commonly referred to as a future wager. Bettors must correctly select a team to win an event that takes place a later time. The money wagered will be tied up until there is an outcome and bettors will receive fixed odds when they place the wager. The future odds are normally updated on a weekly basis and wagers can be placed throughout the season.

To figure out your Win Amount, take the odds and multiply by the amount wagered. Ex. Chicago Sky (10/1) to win the championship. Chicago is listed as an 10/1 betting choice to win the WNBA Championship. If you wager $100 on Chicago to win it all and they capture the championship, then you would win $1000 (10 ÷ 1 x 100). You would collect $1100, which includes your win and stake ($100).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Dream (17-17) at Sky (18-16)

Date: September 25, 2016 1:00 PM EDT

The mission for Chicago is clear: stop Angel McCoughtry.

McCoughtry scored 37 points in Atlanta's first-round playoff win over Seattle on Wednesday. The win set up a second-round, single-elimination game between the Dream and the Sky on Sunday. Tipoff is at 1 p.m. EDT at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill.

No player in the WNBA has been as dominant on the offensive end as McCoughtry since the Summer Olympics break. She's leading the league in scoring at 23.4 points per game. And she already holds the WNBA playoff record scoring a game-high 42 points.

Chicago, which earned a first-round bye, will have to find a way to contain McCoughtry, and they have to do it without 2015 WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne, who was ruled out of Sunday's game after having thumb surgery last week.

Delle Donne is averaging 21.5 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. She was hurt on Sept. 7 against Washington and had surgery six days later.

Atlanta advanced to the second round of the playoffs thanks to a fourth-quarter surge that secured a 94-85 home win over the Seattle Storm on Wednesday night.

With the score tied 66-66, McCoughtry and Bria Holmes fueled a 24-6 run.

The Sky watched intently as McCoughtry worked her magic against the Storm. Holmes added 21 points, giving the Dream another solid option on offense as well as another player for the Sky to worry about.

Atlanta was without its second-leading scorer, Tiffany Hayes (15.0 points per game), who was suspended for the first round after picking up her seventh technical foul in the final regular-season game.

Chicago earned a first-round bye despite losing Delle Donne and going 3-2 in their final five games.

Delle Donne resumed practicing this week after having surgery. She was limited and finally ruled out of Sunday's game.

In Delle Donne's place, the Sky will lean on Cappie Pondexter for scoring and leadership. Pondexter's 19.8 points per game in the playoffs is the fifth highest in league history.

Maybe more important, Pondexter averaged 13.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game in three games this season against Atlanta.

Also having to step up in Delle Donne's absence will be Courtney Vandersloot, who was averaging 15.0 points per game in her last five games.

When the two teams last met, the Sky hung on for a 90-82 win on Aug. 26 in Chicago. Atlanta won the previous two meetings between the two.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL notebook: Packers rule out Matthews, Burnett
By The Sports Xchange

The Green Bay Packers ruled out linebacker Clay Matthews and safety Morgan Burnett for Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions.
The two players were downgraded on Saturday after previously being listed as doubtful.
Matthews aggravated an ankle injury in the 17-14 loss at the Minnesota Vikings last Sunday night. He also is dealing with a hamstring injury.
Burnett sustained a hamstring injury in the second half against the Vikings, but he was listed on the injury report this week with a groin injury.
The Packers also downgraded outside linebacker Datone Jones (knee) and defensive tackle Letroy Guion (knee) from questionable to doubtful.

--The Lions signed linebacker Zaviar Gooden to the active roster and waived wide receiver Aaron Dobson.
Gooden was signed to the practice squad this week after originally participating in training camp. He spent the 2013 and '14 seasons with the Tennessee Titans, where he had 27 tackles (17 solo) in 24 games (three starts).
Injured cornerback Adairius Barnes and linebackers DeAndre Levy and Antwione Williams were downgraded to out for Sunday's game at Green Bay.

--Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who is listed as doubtful to play Sunday night against the Cowboys because of a sprained right thumb, made the trip to Dallas.
The Bears also announced that running back Ka'Deem Carey and nose tackle Eddie Goldman did not make the trip and will not play against the Cowboys.
Cutler, Carey (hamstring) and Goldman (ankle) had been listed as doubtful. Linebacker Danny Trevathan (thumb) already had been ruled out.
Cutler suffered the injury during last Monday night's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The Bears anticipated that Cutler would be sidelined for multiple games.

--San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick joined players and coaches of a high school football team in Oakland, Calif., on Friday night in their protest during the national anthem
Kaepernick kneeled with the team and numerous players were photographed lying on their backs with their hands raised.
Kaepernick said earlier this week he has received death threats for his protest of what he calls racial inequalities and injustices taking place in America, including fatal police shootings.
Kaepernick visited with players from Castlemont High School and spoke with the team in the locker room before the game.
"You are important, you make a difference, this matters. Everything you do matters," Kaepernick told the players in videos circulating Saturday morning on social media.

--Lady Gaga is expected to be the headline performer at halftime of Super Bowl LI in Houston.
Sources told SportsBusiness Daily that the official announcement likely will be made on Sunday during FOX's NFL pregame show.
Billboard.com first reported last week that the music artist was in talks with the NFL to serve as halftime entertainment at NRG Stadium on Feb. 5, 2017.
Gaga received rave reviews for her rendition of the national anthem at Super Bowl 50 between the Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers. Coldplay was the halftime act.

--The New York Giants promoted rookie safety Andrew Adams from the practice squad because of recent injuries to safeties Mykkele Thompson and Darian Thompson.
Cornerback Michael Hunter, who was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster Tuesday, was waived.
Mykkele Thompson was placed on season-ending injured reserve this week with a knee injury and the Giants announced Friday that rookie starting free safety Darian Thompson would miss Sunday's home game against the Washington Redskins with a foot injury.

--Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones is listed as questionable for Monday night's game against the New Orleans Saints but returned to practice in a limited capacity Saturday while recovering from a calf injury.
Jones, who was held out of practice Thursday and Friday, said he will be ready to play in New Orleans.
"Yes, yes I'll play Monday night," Jones told reporters Saturday. "I wouldn't chance it if I didn't (feel right), if I felt like I was going to overcompensate and something else was going to get tore up or it was going to get worse or anything like that. It's just warming that muscle up, warming up everything, making sure everything is firing properly."
Jones caught five passes for 106 yards and a touchdown in the Falcons' 35-28 win over the Oakland Raiders last Sunday. In the game, he was injured after colliding with two Raiders defenders.

--Former NFL wide receiver Joe Horn compared commissioner Roger Goodell to Russian leader Vladimir Putin in an interview with Sports Illustrated.
Last week, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown was fined by the NFL for his end-zone gesture and for violating uniform protocol in his team's season-opening victory over the Washington Redskins.
Brown was wearing baby blue cleats, which is against the league's uniform protocol.
Brown was penalized 15 yards for his celebratory "twerking" gesture in the end zone following a 26-yard touchdown.
"Roger Goodell wants to control," Horn said. "Referees think you're overly celebrating and they throw flags. It's either going to count against your team or it's going to count out of your pocket. It's control, man. They want to control. He controls the players.
"Roger Goodell is like the Vladimir (expletive) Putin of the NFL. You quote me on that. ... Roger Goodell is the Vladimir Putin of the NFL when it comes to players. Putin punks every country when he gets ready to. And there's no rules when it comes to Putin, and Goodell is the same (expletive) way when it comes to players. He sets all the standards. ... As far as dictatorship, as far as making moves to do what he wants, that's what Putin does.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Injury Report for Sunday's games

ARIZONA CARDINALS at BUFFALO BILLS
ARIZONA CARDINALS
--Out: G Evan Mathis (foot, toe)
--Doubtful: LB Kareem Martin (knee), DT Frostee Rucker (knee)
--Questionable: CB Justin Bethel (foot), DT Robert Nkemdiche (ankle)
BUFFALO BILLS
--Out: S Colt Anderson (foot), T Cordy Glenn (ankle)
--Questionable: TE Charles Clay (knee), CB Ronald Darby (hamstring), QB Cardale Jones (right shoulder), WR Greg Salas (groin), WR Sammy Watkins (foot)

BALTIMORE RAVENS at JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
BALTIMORE RAVENS
--Out: RB Kenneth Dixon (knee)
--Questionable: LB Elvis Dumervil (foot), T Ronnie Stanley (foot), G John Urschel (shoulder)
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
--Out: T Kelvin Beachum (concussion), TE Ben Koyack (knee)
--Questionable: CB Prince Amukamara (hamstring), S Tashaun Gipson (hamstring), RB Chris Ivory (not injury related - illness), G Brandon Linder (knee), DE Jared Odrick (triceps)

CLEVELAND BROWNS at MIAMI DOLPHINS
CLEVELAND BROWNS
--Out: S Ibraheim Campbell (hamstring), WR Corey Coleman (hand), C Cameron Erving (chest, lung), QB Josh McCown (left shoulder), DE Carl Nassib (hand)
--Questionable: CB Joe Haden (groin), K Patrick Murray (left knee)
MIAMI DOLPHINS
--Out: RB Arian Foster (groin), C Mike Pouncey (hip)
--Questionable: CB Xavien Howard (knee), LB Jelani Jenkins (knee), DE Jason Jones (ankle), LB Koa Misi (shoulder), WR DeVante Parker (hamstring), LB Spencer Paysinger (neck)

DENVER BRONCOS at CINCINNATI BENGALS
DENVER BRONCOS
--Out: TE Virgil Green (calf), T Donald Stephenson (calf), LB DeMarcus Ware (forearm)
--Questionable: WR Bennie Fowler (elbow), LB Corey Nelson (ankle), S Justin Simmons (hand), LB Dekoda Watson (elbow)
CINCINNATI BENGALS
--Doubtful: TE Tyler Eifert (ankle)
--Questionable: CB Darqueze Dennard (hamstring), G Eric Winston (back)

DETROIT LIONS at GREEN BAY PACKERS
DETROIT LIONS
--Out: DE Ezekiel Ansah (ankle)
--Doubtful: LB DeAndre Levy (quadricep), LB Antwione Williams (hamstring)
--Questionable: CB Adairius Barnes (ankle), TE Eric Ebron (back), DE Wallace Gilberry (abdomen), T Riley Reiff (ankle), DE Devin Taylor (ankle), LB Kyle Van Noy (calf), DT Tyrunn Walker (calf), G Larry Warford (illness)
GREEN BAY PACKERS
--Out: CB Sam Shields (concussion), S Morgan Burnett (groin), LB Clay Matthews (ankle, hamstring)
--Doubtful: DT Letroy Guion (knee), DE Datone Jones (Knee)
--Questionable: G T.J. Lang (hip),

LOS ANGELES RAMS at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
LOS ANGELES RAMS
--Doubtful: WR Pharoh Cooper (shoulder), WR Nelson Spruce (knee)
--Questionable: S Maurice Alexander (thigh), RB Benny Cunningham (knee), CB E.J. Gaines (thigh), CB Lamarcus Joyner (toe)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
--Out: DE Robert Ayers (ankle), LB Lavonte David (shoulder), RB Doug Martin (hamstring), WR Cecil Shorts (hamstring)
--Questionable: T Donovan Smith (hip), S Ryan Smith (hand), TE Luke Stocker (ankle)

MINNESOTA VIKINGS at CAROLINA PANTHERS
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
--Out: DT Sharrif Floyd (knee), RB Adrian Peterson (knee)
--Questionable: TE MyCole Pruitt (knee), CB Xavier Rhodes (knee)
CAROLINA PANTHERS
--Out: RB Jonathan Stewart (hamstring)
--Doubtful: LB Jeremy Cash (hamstring)
--Questionable: DT Kawann Short (shoulder), G Trai Turner (ankle)

NEW YORK JETS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
NEW YORK JETS
--Out: QB Bryce Petty (right shoulder)
-- Questionable: LB David Harris (shoulder), LB Erin Henderson (foot), WR Brandon Marshall (foot, knee)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
--Out: LB Sam Barrington (hamstring), G Parker Ehinger (concussion, foot), T Jah Reid (knee, ankle)
--Doubtful: RB Jamaal Charles (knee)
--Questionable: G Laurent Duvernay-Tardif (ankle), CB Phillip Gaines (knee)

OAKLAND RAIDERS at TENNESSEE TITANS
OAKLAND RAIDERS
--Out: T Austin Howard (ankle), T Matt McCants (knee)
--Questionable: CB David Amerson (concussion), C Rodney Hudson (knee), G Gabe Jackson (knee), RB Taiwan Jones (knee), DT Darius Latham (concussion), DE Jihad Ward (hip), T Menelik Watson (groin)
TENNESSEE TITANS
--Questionable: LB Derrick Morgan (hamstring), TE Delanie Walker (hamstring), WR Kendall Wright (hamstring)

PITTSBURGH STEELERS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
--Out: CB Senquez Golson (foot), C Cody Wallace (knee)
--Doubtful: RB Roosevelt Nix (back)
--Questionable: G Ramon Foster (elbow)
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
--Out: TE Zach Ertz (rib), CB Leodis McKelvin (hamstring), G Isaac Seumalo (pectoral)
--Questionable: LB Mychal Kendricks (nose, quadriceps)

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS at INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
--Out: S Jahleel Addae (collarbone), DE Joey Bosa (hamstring)
--Doubtful: TE Antonio Gates (hamstring)
--Questionable: G Orlando Franklin (hamstring)
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
--Out: CB Darius Butler (hamstring), T Denzelle Good (back), WR Donte Moncrief (shoulder), CB Patrick Robinson (concussion)
--Questionable: LB Trent Cole (back), CB Vontae Davis (ankle), S Clayton Geathers (foot), S T.J. Green (knee), WR T.Y. Hilton (knee), C Ryan Kelly (shoulder), QB Andrew Luck (right shoulder)

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS at SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
--Out: T Anthony Davis (concussion)
--Questionable: S Marcus Cromartie (ankle), S Jaquiski Tartt (knee)
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
--Doubtful: G Germain Ifedi (ankle), RB Thomas Rawls (shin), TE Nick Vannett (ankle)
--Questionable: WR Tyler Lockett (knee), RB C.J. Prosise (wrist)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS at NEW YORK GIANTS
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
--Out: DE Kendall Reyes (groin)
--Questionable: DE Chris Baker (rib, elbow, toe, knee), S Su'a Cravens (hip), WR Josh Doctson (Achilles), C Kory Lichtensteiger (back), T Ty Nsekhe (foot), LB Martrell Spaight (concussion)
NEW YORK GIANTS
--Out: T Marshall Newhouse (calf), DT Robert Thomas (illness), S Darian Thompson (foot)
--Questionable: RB Rashad Jennings (thumb)

CHICAGO BEARS at DALLAS COWBOYS on Sunday night
CHICAGO BEARS
--Out: LB Danny Trevathan (thumb), RB Ka'Deem Carey (hamstring), DT Eddie Goldman (ankle)
--Doubtful: QB Jay Cutler (right thumb)
--Questionable: S Adrian Amos (concussion), CB Bryce Callahan (concussion), CB Kyle Fuller (knee), WR Alshon Jeffery (knee), T Bobby Massie (toe), CB Tracy Porter (knee), S Chris Prosinski (calf), G Josh Sitton (shoulder), DT Will Sutton (elbow), LB Willie Young (knee)
DALLAS COWBOYS
--Out: QB Tony Romo (back), DE Charles Tapper (back)
--Doubtful: LB Mark Nzeocha (Achilles)
--Questionable: DE Jack Crawford (shoulder), T Doug Free (quadricep), CB Orlando Scandrick (both hamstrings), T Tyron Smith (back)

ATLANTA FALCONS at NEW ORLEANS SAINTS on Monday night
ATLANTA FALCONS
--Out: LB De'Vondre Campbell (ankle), LB Paul Worrilow (groin)
--Questionable: WR Julio Jones (calf)
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
--Out: T Terron Armstead (knee), CB Delvin Breaux (fibula)
--Questionable: DT Tyeler Davison (shoulder, foot), LB Dannell Ellerbe (quadricep), TE Josh Hill (ankle), DE Cameron Jordan (knee), WR Willie Snead (toe), S Kenny Vaccaro (ankle).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Opening Line Report: Key injuries are the main factor heading into Week 3
By PATRICK EVERSON

Injuries are clearly going to be a factor for oddsmakers in Week 3 of the NFL season. We talk about a few of this week’s opening lines with Peter Childs, risk management supervisor, and Jason Simbal, vice president of risk management for CG Technology in Las Vegas.

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers (-6.5)

Defending NFC champion Carolina (1-1 SU and ATS) rebounded from its season-opening loss at Denver by rolling past San Francisco 46-27 laying 12 points at home Sunday. Meanwhile, Minnesota knocked off Green Bay 17-14 catching 1 point at home, but lost Adrian Peterson to a knee injury.

“The Panthers are slightly more than a field goal better than the Vikings, and Carolina takes on an extra 3 points for playing at home,” Simbal said.

Denver Broncos vs. Cincinnati Bengals (-3.5)

The defending Super Bowl champion Broncos have picked up where they left off last year, with a dominant defense keying a 2-0 SU and ATS start. On Sunday, Denver had a pick-six and a fumble recovery for a touchdown that put away Indianapolis in a 34-20 win as a 6-point home fave.

Cincinnati (1-1 SU and ATS) fell at Pittsburgh 24-16 Sunday as a 3-point pup.

Sportsbooks installed Cincy as a 3.5-point chalk, but news later came out that Bengals QB Andy Dalton is questionable with an apparent ankle injury. So Childs took the game down late Sunday evening.

“It’s one of the better games, featuring two teams that were in the playoffs last year and with playoff expectations this year,” Childs said. “I’m certain the public will support the Broncos here, and the sharps are going to back the favorite (pending Dalton’s status).

“Most sharp bettors love fading rookie quarterbacks making their first road start, and that’s what the Broncos will be doing on Sunday. While Trevor Siemian isn’t a rookie, it’s his first road start, and I see him struggling here in this spot.”

Added Simbal, who also opened Cincinnati at -3.5: “It’s two very evenly matched teams, so the home team gets the home-field advantage edge.”

Washington Redskins at New York Giants (-4)

The Giants are out of the gate 2-0 SU (1-1 ATS) with a second tight victory in as many weeks. New York held off New Orleans 16-13, failing to cash as a 3.5-point favorite. Meanwhile, Washington (0-2 SU and ATS) is still seeking its first win after Sunday’s 27-23 setback to Dallas as a 3.5-point home chalk.

“The ‘Skins are in a must, must-win spot, starting the season 0-2, with both those losses at home,” Childs said. “The Giants made a ton of offseason moves to improve their defense, and so far it’s paid off, holding their two opponents this season to just 19 and 13 points. Eli Manning really hasn’t lit the world on fire so far, and that’s a bit surprising, because he has weapons galore, especially at wide receiver.

“That said, it’s a heated NFC East rivalry game, and we hung the Giants -4. I suspect the public will fade the 0-2 ‘Skins and back the undefeated Giants. I see this game closing at 4.5.”

At CG books, the number opened at Giants -3.5.

“The Giants closed -4.5 (at CG books) against New Orleans,” Simbal said. “Washington is a point better than the Saints right now, so 3.5 is the result.”

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Opening Line Report - Week 3
By Marcus DiNitto

There are three games on the NFL’s Week 3 card that could easily show up again during the AFC playoffs: Texans at Patriots, Broncos at Bengals, and Jets at Chiefs. The NFC slate, meanwhile, is dotted with several key division battles, as well as intra-conference showdowns featuring the Vikings at Panthers and Bears at Cowboys.

Here are Week 3 betting lines, with early moves and differences between Las Vegas sports books noted. Numbers are the Las Vegas consensus as of Sunday night at about 11 p.m. ET.

Sunday, Sept. 25

Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals (-3.5/even)

The Broncos are off to a 2-0 start, but open as road underdogs against a perennial playoff team that’s extremely difficult to beat at home. Is this the spot for Trevor Siemian and Co. to come down to earth?

“That was our thought process in putting the game up at 3.5,” Salmons said. “Denver is winning with their defense right now. You keep thinking that at some point, you need some kind of offense, but they really haven’t so far. … It’s hard to go too overboard on Denver, but they keep winning.”

There was a small early move on the Broncos, who were bet from +3.5 to +3.5 (-120) on Sunday night.

Oakland Raiders at Tennessee Titans (pick ‘em/-110)

Oakland opened -1 at the Westgate, with the game moving to a pick ‘em after about an hour of wagering. Last year’s meeting between these teams, at Tennessee in Week 12, featured a similar point spread, the Raiders winning 24-21 as 1-point chalk.

Arizona Cardinals (-5/-115) at Buffalo Bills

There was some variance around Las Vegas with this opening number, as CG Technology hung Arizona -4 and the Westgate went -5.5

Baltimore Ravens at Jacksonville Jaguars (pick ‘em/-110)

Baltimore overcame an early 20-point deficit in Cleveland for the 25-20 win and cover (according to closing lines) to start their season 2-0. While victories over the Browns and Bills won’t convince many bettors, another beatable side awaits the Ravens – the 0-2 Jaguars, who weren’t exactly competitive in San Diego on Sunday.

This line ranged from Baltimore -1 to Jacksonville -1 on Sunday night.

Cleveland Browns at Miami Dolphins (-7/-105)

Miami hasn’t been a favorite of a touchdown or more since 2014. A home date against the Browns changes that.

Washington Redskins at New York Giants (-4/-110)

The 2-0 Giants open as solid favorites against an 0-2 team they have dominated in recent seasons. New York lost the most recent meeting (20-14 at Washington in November) but won the previous five, including going 3-0 SU and ATS at home vs. the Redskins.

Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers (-8)

An 18-16 win as 10.5-point dogs at Green Bay in Week 10 began last season’s turnaround for Detroit, which finished the season on a 6-2 run, both SU and ATS. But just as you were thinking the Lions were back to being a factor, they come up empty as 6-point home favorites against Tennessee on Sunday.

Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers (-6.5)

The Panthers are 8-2 ATS when laying points at home since the start of last season, including Sunday’s 46-27 win as 12.5-point faves against the Niners. But the Vikes have an answer for that trend: they have covered the spread in their last eight games as road underdogs, as well as 10 of their 11 in the role.

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks (-10/-110)

Seattle opened -11 at the Westgate on Sunday before a 1-point move during the first hour of wagering in the 49ers’ direction. Through two weeks, the Seahawks have scored a total of 15 points and scored just one touchdown. At least they get an easy one at home next week. Right, Mr. Salmons?

“I don’t think anything’s easy with Seattle with the way they play offense,” Salmons said. “Their offensive line is just dreadful. They simply can’t score.”

Los Angeles Rams at Tampa Bay Bucs (-4/-110)

Early bettors were eager to lay the points with Tampa Bay, despite a lackluster showing at Arizona on Sunday, pushing the opening number of -3.5 up a half point at multiple Las Vegas shops.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-5.5/-110) at Philadelphia Eagles

While this line was posted before oddsmakers had a chance to watch Philly play its second game of the season, there are reasons the Steelers are laying a number this large on the road. According to Salmons, those reason are the way Pitt has looked through two weeks, the Eagles playing on short rest and a rookie QB (Carson Wentz) going up against what evidently is an excellent defense.

Also, the Westgate anticipates public money on the favorite, especially since it’s a late kickoff.

“The public’s going to be betting Pittsburgh in that game, there’s no doubt about that,” Salmons said.

New York Jets at Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5/-110)

Despite Salmons’ aforementioned misgivings about the Chiefs, his shop opened Kansas City -4 vs. the Jets, before moving to -3.5 and then to -3.5 (even). At the Wynn, K.C. opened -3.5 and were bet to -3.

San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (-2.5/even)

The Colts opened -3 (even), a number snapped up by underdog bettors at multiple Vegas casinos, as it’s clear who has been the better team through two weeks of the season.

Chicago Bears at Dallas Cowboys (-4/-110)

William Hill and Coasts both opened Dallas a tick higher, at -4.5. Dak Prescott continues to impress, and Salmons has noticed the Cowboys have dominated time of possession (they held the ball for 35 minutes against Washington and 36 minutes against the Giants).

“Their ball possession has been amazing, but their defense is spotty,” he said.

“Prescott is playing great,” Salmons added. “His running is adding a different dimension that teams have to account for, and they have to double (Dez) Bryant and it’s opening up the run. Prescott has looked great so far.”

Monday, Sept. 26

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (-3/-120)

The Westgate opened New Orleans -3.5, adjusting downward during early wagering, while CG Technology stuck at 3.5 as of this writing. The Saints appear to have a fine opportunity to get their first win of the season – they are 15-5 overall and 8-2 at home against Atlanta since Drew Brees arrived in 2006, a trend that will entice favorite bettors at a field goal or less.

 

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NFL Week 3 line watch: The Buffalo Bills are in big trouble
By AAA SPORTS

Each week during the pro football season, Art Aronson of AAA Sports looks at the NFL odds and tells you which spread to bet now, which one to bet later, and which total to watch as the week plays out.

Game to bet now

Arizona Cardinals at Buffalo Bills (+4)

Is Rex Ryan already playing out the string in western New York? Ryan might be on thin ice even before the ice arrives in Buffalo. The Bills are 0-2 and already two games back in the AFC East, and now face the Cardinals and Patriots in back-to-back games. If Buffalo isn’t at least competitive, the pressure will certainly be on ownership to make a mid-season change. The Cardinals head east with tons of momentum after crushing Tampa Bay by 33 in Week 2, and now begin the soft underbelly of their schedule (Bills, Rams, 49ers and Jets). The game opened at Buffalo +4, and if you’re with the vast majority of early bettors who like the Cardinals, best get your wager down before the number goes to 4½ or 5.

Total to watch

San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (51.5)

The 1-1 Chargers and the 0-2 Colts are both high-scoring teams with suspect defenses. In fact, the four games involving these teams have produced a total of 230 points. The sample is obviously small, but Indy is on a pace to give up 584 points – which would be 108 more than the worst defensive team in the league (New Orleans) allowed last season. Adding fuel to the fire is that San Diego has scored the second-most points in the league this season, just one fewer than Carolina. The total here opened at 50.5 and was quickly bet up to 51.5.