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Peakplayers Super Bowl Pick

2008-02-01T20:04:00.000-05:00

NY Giants vs. New England Patriots
Pick: New England -12 (4.5 Stars)

Most of the obvious signs point to a close game. Giants barely lost in the regular season finale. The Patriots are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games. The Patriots haven't dominated anyone in weeks. The Giants are streaking. Eli is finally controlling the ball. Brandon Jacobs looks like a workhorse back.

All of the those points are fine and dandy. Except for this....the 2007-08 New England Patriots are the best team in the history of the NFL. Statistically speaking these Patriots are hands down the greatest team ever. And now is the time for them to prove it. There are a number of factors that lead us to believe in a Patriots blow out. Here are some of the conclusions we drew up:

- The AFC is clearly the better conference and deserves the championship, they've also won 6 of the last 7 super bowls.
- Experience. The Patriots have a roster chock full of guys that have played and performed in the big game.
- Don't be fooled by the Giants performance in the season finale. While it was a competitive game, the Patriots didn't even attempt to pass rush Eli until the end of the 3rd quarter. The Patriots scored with ease, and their defense is much better than they played that evening. Especially, when they apply pressure to the quarterback.
- Weather. The warm weather favors the Patriots passing game. Think about the games where the Patriots offense struggled to score points. Cold weather every time. The Ravens, the Jets, the Jaguars, the Chargers. All of those games were played in cold, tough weather conditions. The warm weather will be a relief to these guys and their offense is going to explode.
-Eli Manning. We simply don't see this guy as a big game quarterback. The Patriots are going to throw defensive looks at him that he has never even dreamed about. He's going to get sacked a lot, be under pressure a lot, and will throw at least 2 interceptions. Look for Asante Samuel to have a big impact.
- The Giants secondary. They are vulnerable, and who better than the greatest passing offense ever to take advantage of that?

Lastly, this Patriots team is a team of destiny. 19-0 is an incredible accomplishment, and no matter who your favorite team is, you should take a moment to realize, as a football fan, that you are witnessing history.

Patriots win big, 48-22.

Championship Weekend

2008-01-19T12:49:00.000-05:00

San Diego at New England
Pick: San Diego -14 (3 Stars)

Here's a scenario where the bad weather should actually benefit the visiting team. Similar to the Patriots struggle against the Jets with bad weather at home, we forsee the Patriots passing game slowed down due to high winds and extreme cold. If both teams are running, that evens up this matchup, so we'll take the 14. Patriots win by 10.

NY Giants at Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -7 (3 Stars)

We're not sold on the Giants as a team that can compete with the Packers. The Pack is looking strong and should put the Giants away by the end of the 3rd quarter. Green Bay 28-10.

Divisional Playoff Weekend

2008-01-11T10:10:00.000-05:00

It's tough to pick against the four favorites this week, with their home field advantage and 2 weeks rest. On the other hand, history says that 1 will probably fall, maybe 2. Still, the 4 favorites are clearly heads and shoulders better teams than the rest of the league, hence their dominate seasons. We think they go 4-0 this week, 3-1 ATS, as follows:

Seattle at Green Bay
Pick: Green Bay -8 (3.5 Stars)

Forget about all the Hasselbeck and Holmgren return hype and look at the reality of these two teams. Green Bay outclasses the Seahawks accross the board. Seattle is awful on the road, Green Bay's defense is healthy and will make several big plays. We see a lot of turnovers from Seattle, and Green Bay in a blow out. Green Bay 35-17.

Jacksonville at New England
Pick: New England -13.5 (3 Stars)

This game isn't so clear cut, simply because 14 points is a big number against a team as good as Jacksonville. On the other hand, we don't see the Jags offense scoring much in this game, and their defense will struggle to stop Brady and co through 4 quarters. New England will put 8 men in the box and force Garrard to throw. When that happens, the opportunistic Patriots defense will take advantage. Jacksonville keeps it close through most of 3 quarters, but the Patriots break the game open late. New England 27-10.

NY Giants at Dallas
Pick: NY Giants +7.5 (4 Stars)

It is extremely difficult to beat a team 3 times in one season, which is exactly what Dallas will need to do to get to the next round. While we see Dallas finding a way to win this game, we think it'll be a dog fight. This will be the game of the week, take the points. Cowboys 30-27.

San Diego at Indianapolis
Pick: Indianapolis -8.5 (4 Stars)

The Colts are the champs, don't forget that and their defense is stingy. We think they take their game to the next level here and handle the Chargers with ease. Don't be fooled by the Chargers regular season win over the Colts, the Colts are as good as anyone and are still the team to beat. Colts 38-10.

Playoff Picks: Wildcard Round

2008-01-04T12:04:00.000-05:00

Washington at Seattle
Pick: Redskins +3.5 (4.5 Stars)

We love that hook. We're convinced that this game is coming down to a field goal, so you should take the points. The Redskins are hot, and in the wild card round, hot teams win. We don't believe that teams can just turn things on and off, and those 44 points against the Hawks last week scare us for a team matching up with the red-hot Todd Collins and Clinton Portis.

Jacksonville at Pittsburgh
Pick: Steelers +2.5 (3 Stars)

Can you say home dog? Home playoff dog? It's time for the Steelers to man up, and we think they will, with the crowd behind them, a sloppy field, and revenge on their minds. The Steelers get a little swagger back this week. We'll take the experienced Steelers and Big Ben in this one.

NY Giants at Tampa Bay
Pick: NY Giants +3 (2 Stars)

We were tempted to go the other way here.....we just don't like how everyone is so confident about the Giants after their performance last week. But, they are 7-1 on the road this year, and should find enough offense to put some points up against the stingy Bucs defense. The Tampa offense doesn't scare anyone, and the Giants will find it easier to cover Galloway and Co. than Moss, Welker, and Stallworth. There is something different about this Giants team than years past, and that should get them a win this week.

Tennessee at San Diego
Pick: Tennessee +9 (3.5 Stars)

While the Chargers have the superior talent, we think the Titans have the heart, and the better coaching. Jeff Fisher will find a way to make his team compete in this one, and they'll make a game out of it.

Orange Bowl: Kansas vs. Virginia Tech

2008-01-03T12:49:00.000-05:00

Thursday’s Orange Bowl will be a battle between one of the best offenses and one of the top defenses in the nation. Kansas has produced the second most points per game this season (44.3), while Virginia Tech is allowing the second fewest (15.5).

In the regular season, getting the job done was not a problem for either team. The Jayhawks finished 11-1, while the Hokies were 11-2. One thing that could separate the sides is experience. Virginia Tech has made as many bowl trips in the last ten years as Kansas has made in all 117 seasons of its football program. This is the Hokies’ fifth BCS bowl matchup in 12 years.

We'll take the ACC champ over the #3 Big 12 any day....with their experience and superiority on defense and special teams, peakplayers loves Virginia Tech -3.5.

Play: Virginia Tech -3.5 (5 Stars)

Note: Peakplayers opted not to bet on the unpredictable Week 17 NFL games. Keep an eye out for our playoff picks on Friday afternoon, though.

Emerald Bowl: Maryland vs. Oregon St (8:30 PM EST)

2007-12-28T12:26:00.000-05:00

Play: Maryland +5 (4 Stars)
Play: Maryland SU +175 (3 Stars)

- Maryland has won its last 3 bowl games. The Terps have outscored opponents by a 95-17 margin during the winning streak, which includes a 24-7 victory over Purdue in the Champs Sports Bowl last December 29th.

- Maryland is one of only four teams in the country with two running backs to each compile at least 750 rushing yards this season. Keon Lattimore totaled 789 with 13 touchdowns and Lance Ball had 763 with 12 TDs to help the Terps rank third in the ACC with 147 rushing yards per game.

-As an underdog against the Pac-10, ACC Bowl teams have not only covered the spread but have won each game outright in a limited number of contests over the past 16+ seasons. Not only have they covered the spread and won the game outright as underdogs they have averaged covering the spread by 16.8 points per game. All these numbers tell us to Play ON an ACC Bowl underdog vs. a Pac-10 opponent, 6-0 SU/ATS since 1991.

Week 16 Picks

2007-12-22T16:12:00.000-05:00

Dallas at Carolina
Pick: Carolina +10.5 (3 Stars)

Home dog action. The Boys have been struggling of late and are minus some key performers. They'll pull out the win, but not by more than 10.

Cleveland at Cincinnati
Pick: Cincinnati +2.5 (2 Stars)

Another home dog, but for different reasons. We like the Bengals to play spoiler and with their success against the Browns earlier this year we think they are a good candidate to cover.

Houston at Indianapolis
Pick: Colts -7 (3.5 Stars)

Houston isn't in the same league as the Colts just yet. We'll take Manning and the points.

Miami at New England
Pick: Patriots -22 (4 Stars)

This offense won't struggle two weeks in a row at home. Patriots win big in this one.

Washington at Minnesota
Pick: Washington +6.5 (3.5 Stars)

While the Vikes are deserved favorites....we think this will be a playoff type of matchup and that the Redskins and Vikes will go to battle until the end. Tight game means we like the 6 points.

Week 15 Picks

2007-12-15T19:01:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati at San Francisco
Pick: San Francisco+8.5 (3 Stars)

We going home dog on this.

Arizona at New Orleans
Pick: New Orleans -3.5 (4 Stars)

The Cardinals have been easy to figure out this year...we just should have noticed it sooner. Take them at home and bet against them on the road. Go with the Saints.

Atlanta at Tampa Bay
Pick: Atlanta +13 (3 Stars)

With Petrino out of the picture, we think the Falcons suprise people and show up to play.

Baltimore at Miami
Pick: Miami Money Line (3 Stars)

Dolphins won't go winless, and this is their best chance against the hapless, no-pride Ravens.

Green Bay at St. Louis
Pick: St. Louis +8.5 (5 Stars Pick of the Week)

Ok, Bulger is back....the Ram offense is finally healthy and the Pack has little to play for. Indoors, on turf.....Rams.

Indianapolis at Oakland
Pick: Indy -10.5 (3 Stars)

Quietly, the Colts are playing solid football, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

Week 14 Picks

2007-12-07T16:14:00.000-05:00

Pittsburgh at New England
Pittsburgh +10.5 (3.5 Stars)

New England has shown itself to be a bit vulnerable the past 2 weeks and if any team is going to beat them it will probably be the Steelers. 10.5 is a lot of points and the Steelers should keep this game competitive.

Minnesota at San Franisco
San Francisco +8.5 (3 Stars)

Home Dog Alert, Home Dog Alert.

Dallas at Detroit
Detroit +10.5 (3 Stars)
Over 51.5 (3 Stars)

Home Dog Part II. Detroit's passing attack should find a way to undo the banged up and weak Cowboy secondary. Expect a shootout.

St Louis at Cincinnati
St. Louis +7.5 (3.5 Stars)

The Bungals don't deserve to favored over anyone right now...much less by 7.5 points. The Rams have been ok the past couple of weeks and should keep the game competitive.

Indianapolis at Baltimore
Indianapolis -9 (5 Star POTW)

All the whining from Baltimore this past week leads us to believe that they put everything into that Patriots game and that they have nothing left in the tank for the equally talented Colts. Blowout Colts.

NFL Week 13 Pick of the Week

2007-12-02T10:31:00.001-05:00

Browns +1 (5 Stars)

Bet the house on this one. The Cards couldn't hold back the pathetic 49ers offense, no chance they slow down the Browns jaugernaut. Bet with confidence.

Friday Night NBA Pick

2007-11-30T12:54:00.000-05:00

Phoenix -5.5 (3 Stars)

Suns return home off BB losses to host the Magic knowing they are 21-5 ATS in SU home wins off BB defeats against an opponent off a win. Stay at home with Phoenix tonight. Play on Phoenix Suns.

NFL Picks Week 11

2007-11-17T08:33:00.000-05:00

Kansas City at Indianapolis
Play: Indianapolis -14.5 (2 Stars)

Cleveland at Baltimore
Play: Baltimore +2.5 (2 Stars)

Tampa Bay at Atlanta
Play: Tampa -3 (4 Stars)

NY Giants at Detroit
Play: NY Giants -3 (3 Stars)

Pittsburgh at NY Jets
Play: Pittsburght -9.5 (4 Stars)

Washington at Dallas
Play: Dallas -11 (3 Stars)

New England at Buffalo
Play: New England -16 (3.5 Stars)

Arizona/Cincinnati Under 48 (3 Stars)

The 'under' in the Arizona Cardinals/Cincinnati Bengals game as NFL games have gone 'under' the total 222 times out of 367 since 1980 when the posted total is 47.5 points or more. Here, the current line is 48 points, so we'll look for a low-scoring game. Take the 'under'.

College Picks 11/17

2007-11-17T08:29:00.000-05:00

San Diego State vs. Air Force
Play: San Diego St +11 (3 Stars)

This game is all about Air Force and how it has won five of six including a win at Notre Dame last Saturday. Big deal. Yes the Falcons are playing very good right now but with the exception of their thumping of Army, this team has not done much dominating. Of the other four wins during this run, they have outgained two opponents and been outgained by two opponents with a net +81 total in those four games.
San Diego St. has quietly gone about its business with two straight wins which followed a heart-breaking loss at home to New Mexico by three points two weeks prior. The Aztecs sit at 3-2 in the MWC and believe it or not, they still have a shot at a share of the title. If Utah can knock off the Cougars in two weeks, and San Diego St. wins its rescheduled game with BYU on December 1st, it is possible.

Last year, San Diego St. had to keep things simple and start from scratch with three different quarterbacks. This year, it could build with one as Kevin O’Connell as remained healthy and has put up good numbers. He is 35th in th4e country in total offense which is pretty goof considering the Aztecs finished 108th in total offense a year ago. O’Connell is dangerous with both his arm and his feet.

The Falcons are cranking with their option attack and it will be up for the Aztecs to try and slow them down. They have been able to control some goods rushing teams and while stopping Air Force is not an option, slowing it down enough is so the offense can control as much of the clock as possible. Confidence is important as the Aztecs are 2-1 in their past three road games after losing their previous nine road/neutral site contests.

While Air Force is great at running the ball, 4th in the country, it is only 62 in scoring offense so it isn’t going to run away with anything. Play against favorites of 10.5 to 21 points off one or more straight overs, in a game involving two teams that are averaging between 21 and 28 ppg after seven or more games. This situation is 24-6 ATS (80 percent) since 1992 with the average point differential being just -5.8 ppg. Play San Diego St.

Pittsburgh at Rutgers
Play: Pittsburgh +12 (2 Stars)

Afer making it all the way to a #10 ranking Rutgers certainly has fallen like a rock losing 4 of their last 7 games. Last week they had an easy time dispatching Army 41-6 and will look to continue that success when they host Pittsburgh. The win last week put Rutgers at 6-4 SU overall and 5-4 ATS. They are 1-2 ATS over the last three games and will be facing a Pittsburgh team who is 10-5 SU versus Rutgers since 1992.

Rutgers hasn't had trouble scoring as they are averaing 30 points per game. It's there defense that has caused problems giving up 27 points per game in conference play.

Pittsburgh comes into this game having faired not much better than Rutgers lately as they have lost 4 of their last 6 SU overall and sit at 4-5 SU and 4-5 ATS on the season. They are coming off a win last week but had a suprisingly tough time versus not a very good Syracuse team. Over their last three ballgames they are 2-1 ATS.

The Pittsburgh offense has had problems on the road as they are scoring only 14 points per game on the road this season. Fortunately for Pittsburgh their defense has been stingy lately giving up only 19 points per game in their last three contests.

SUPPORTING ANGLES: RUTGERS is 6-19 ATS (-14.9 Units) after a game where they forced 4 or more turnovers since 1992. RUTGERS is 2-12 ATS (-11.2 Units) in home games after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better since 1992.

Suprisingly, with a win today Pittsburgh would still be in the hunt for the Big East title. In addition, they have had a week off to prepare for Rutgers which should help. Lots of points to cover with a team that isn't playing much better than Pittsburh right now. Take Pitt.

Oklahoma at Texas Tech
Play: Oklahoma -7.5 (3 Stars)

After allowing Texas 59 points last week at Lubbock, and scoring 45, expect the Sooners to have more of a defense in play this week against Mike Leach's Red Raiders. There is no doubt when Texas Tech plays a high caliber team with Frosh Sensation QB Sam Bradford at the helm, that is a disiplined team like OU, they are in trouble.

Bob Stoops will look at the Missouri film and study how the Tigers held this offense and all world QB Harrell to 10 points and execute a plan. Texas Tech cannot stop anyone, and the balance of OU on offense is solid and with a great 1-2 punch at RB, not to mention WR Kelly who will stun the secondaty in this one.

OU is in the hunt for a national title playing either Kansas or Mizzou in 2 weeks for a shot at the elusive Title that Stoops has won once but been beaten twice since then. OU will not look past this game. I respect the Red Raiders offense but allowing 32 ppg their last 3 games, and playing 3 good teams the last 4 weeks and losing to those 3 good teams has me all over OU in this one, who have covered 5 out of the past 6 years.

Wed Night Football Pick

2007-11-14T16:04:00.000-05:00

Play: Akron +7.5

We're on the Akron Zips when they battle the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks on Wednesday when they meet at Fred C Yager Stadium. The Mia O RedHawks have no business being listed as a 8½-point favorites versus the Zips , who are red hot!!!!!!! last week the Zips pulled out a high-scoring 48-31 victory over the Ohio Bobcats, as 3-point underdogs. The 79 points sailed OVER the posted total of 49. The RedHawks slipped past the Buffalo Bulls 31-28 last time out, to even their record at 5-5. The RedHawks failed to cover the 6.5-point spread at home, and the combined 59 points sailed OVER the posted total of 48. looking inside the #'s Akron is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games & Miami (Ohio) is 3-2 SU & 2-3 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Akron........ PLAY THE AKRON ZIPS

NBA Plays

2007-11-14T16:02:00.000-05:00

Pick: Sacramento +2 (3 Stars)

The Sacramento Kings play game #2 of a short two game road trip as they travel to Minnesota to take on the winless Timber Wolves. The Kings come in off a blowout loss to Utah but previously had won two of three to put them at 2-5 SU and 3-4 ATS.

The Kings offense hasn't been all that bad averaging just over 94 points per game. It's their defense that has been a problem giving up a rather high 103 points per game. They have struggled under the glass as well being out rebounded by a 51 to 43 per game.

After the much publisized trade of Garnett to the Celtics the Timber Wolves have done nothing but go backwards as they come into this contest winless at 0-5 SU and 1-4 ATS. They haven't faired well in front of the home crowd going 0-2 both SU and ATS.

As suspected their offense is in shambles scoring only 94 points per game while the defense has been porous giving up a whopping 105 points per game at home. They have suffered under the glass being out rebounded by a 55-28 margin.

SUPPORTING ANGLES: MINNESOTA is 10-22 ATS (-14.2 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons. MINNESOTA is 9-19 ATS (-11.9 Units) after playing 2 consecutive games as an underdog over the last 2 seasons. MINNESOTA is 9-21 ATS (-14.1 Units) off a road loss over the last 2 seasons.

Two teams not going anywhere soon but to have a winless team favored is a bit of a stretch. We're taking Sacramento in this one.

Play: Washington -6 (2 Stars)

Washington finally got into the win column with a win over Atlanta on Sunday and the Wizards might be ready to turn the corner. After averaging 18.8 turnovers in the first five games, the Wizards finished Sunday with a season-low 12 and after averaging only 15.2 assists in five losses, they totaled a season-high 26 against the Hawks. The shooting from behind the arc was dismal again but that will come around eventually and why not against a Pacers team allowing opponents to drain 38.9 percent from long range.
Indians is coming off a home loss against Boston last night, its fourth straight loss after starting the season with three consecutive wins. The four defeats have not been close as the Pacers are struggling to find an offensive rhythm as they have scored 89 points or fewer in three of those. The other side of the ball is not doing much to help. The Pacers have allowed 105 ppg over their last five games and the once proud defense has given up 100 or more points in five of seven games.

Washington knows what lies ahead and it is good news. The Wizards next seven games are against teams a combined 12-27 so that first victory can put a change into this team. All five starters scored in double figures for the first time this season as the Wizards shot a season-high 43.2 percent and once that shooting starts to get going, the offense really begins to shine. The season's first victory simply reminded the Wizards that good things happen when a team shares the basketball and avoids turnovers.

The Pacers have already won one meeting between the two teams this season and Washington falls into a great revenge spot here. Play on home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points that are revenging a same season loss against their opponent as a road favorite and that are playing only their 2nd game in five days. This situation is 42-17 ATS (71.2 percent) over the last five seasons with the average point differential being +11 ppg. Look for the Wizards to begin their roll.

How kickoff times affect football lines

2007-11-14T16:00:00.001-05:00

Timing is everything, the saying goes, and it holds true in football betting as well.

Oddsmakers are conscious of the kickoff time for each game on Sunday because of the popularity of parlay bets. As a result, the late afternoon, Sunday night and Monday night games are all shaded to some degree.

“Those primetime and bigger afternoon games, they draw more money,” says Mike Seba, senior oddsmaker for Las Vegas Sports Consultants. “We shade the favorites a little bit higher as well as the total. We don’t want our clients to have more liability and this is one way of preventing that.”

Normally the bulk of each week’s schedule fits into the 1 p.m. ET start time. As the day progresses there are fewer games with more weight attached to each because of the parlay cards.

With these facts in mind you’d think there’d be an advantage for bettors playing the first group of games. Playing the over and the favorite should convert at a higher percentage than the later matchups, but that hasn’t been the case so far this season.

Favored teams are 34-34-4 against the spread in early games and 26-31 in later contests. Over is the right play 49 percent of the time earlier in the day (45-46-1) and 51 percent afterwards (28-27-2).

This year’s numbers suggest there’s no real edge, but the bookmakers swear it’s something they take into account.

“You really have to pay attention to them,” Bob Scucci, director of race and sport for Coast Hotels, says of the later matches. “You have the same amount of people betting on fewer games. It’s more concentrated.

“I’m less worried when there are five or six (late afternoon) games. When there’s just two or three we have to win them all.”

The two best matchups so far this season both fell in the late time slot with mixed returns for the books. The public took the cash in Week 6 when the favored New England Patriots beat the Dallas Cowboys, with the game also playing over the 52 total.

The house was the winner of Super Bowl XLI ½. The Indianapolis Colts covered and the AFC slugfest finished well below the 56 total.

Of course that win was ruined with the results from the last two games of Week 9. The Sunday and Monday nighters were shootouts with the underdog losing each one.

Although this season’s stats don’t necessarily support the notion, Scucci says there’s more value playing the favorite and over during the first set of games and doing the opposite later in the day.

“Wiseguys like to play the under and the dog, especially in the late games.”

Louisville at West Virginia

2007-11-08T12:20:00.000-05:00

West Virginia and Louisville each began the season expecting to play in a BCS game. It appears only one team will now have that chance.The sixth-ranked Mountaineers look to keep that hope alive as they try for a fourth straight victory Thursday night in a Big East matchup with the visiting Cardinals.

West Virginia is 6-2 against Louisville, including a 4-1 mark at home. The Cardinals won 9-7 on Sept. 22, 1990 for their lone victory at Morgantown.

Louisville's offense is geared by a passing game that averages 360.9 yards per game; however, they will face WVU's nasty pass defense which has surrendered less than 120 yards through the air over their last five games. On the other side of the ball, WVU's rushing game which churns out almost 300 yards per game could have another big day as Louisville's rushing defense allows over 157 yards per outing. Finally, WVU is 8-3 against the spread (ATS) the last 11 times they played coming off a bye. Factoring in everything above, it is obvious why 71% of the early bettors are on WVU (-16.5)

Pick: West Virginia -17 (3 Stars)

Monday Night Special

2007-11-05T15:39:00.000-05:00

Baltimore +9 (3.5 Stars for $150)

The Ravens are coming off a bye, and are getting back key ingredients with the return of McNair, Heap, and Pryce. The Ravens dominated this series last season, and we anticipate a close matchup. Take the 9 points and bet with confidence.

Dr. Love's Week 9 Picks

2007-11-02T13:11:00.000-04:00

Redskins (-3.5)
Ok...so the Redskins got blown out by the best team in the league. So then you only favor them by 3.5 at a team that's 1-7 and starting a new quarterback? Look for the Redskins to bounce back this week and win by at least 7. With the growing pains the Jets are having they'd be better off starting Kirk Cameron at QB then Kellen Clemens. Ok, bad joke...lets move on.

Jacksonville (+3)
The jags have lost to a decent Titans team to open the season and the Indianapolis Colts. The Saints consecutive wins versus the Falcons and 49ers just aren't convincing me they are ready to play with the Jags yet. Give me the points.

Cincinnati (-1)
No explanation on this one. I just like it.

Cowboys (-3)
Sure it's an NFC East matchup (read: unpredictable) and it is in Philly, but when you have a team playing as good as Dallas only giving up 3 points to a team playing as bad as Phillly you lay the points and hope normallcy prevails.

Patriots (-5.5)
Have they lost against the spread yet? Has it even been close? If the Pats have a chance to run up the score on anyone wouldn't they love to do it against the Colts? There are alot of people taking the Colts and I call this Brad Pitt Syndrome. They have something so perfect and stable at home (Pats/Anniston) but it just seems cool to go against the grain and make the trendy selection (Colts/Jolie). When all is said and done, the stable, common-sense choice was the right one all along and you end up all alone and a loser, wondering what you ever saw in that trendy choice anyway.....besides those lucious, full lips...mmmmm. I wish my wife had lips like that Peyton.

Cleveland/Seattle (under 46.5)
I just don't see alot of points being scored. I'm predicting 23-20 Seattle.

College Picks

2007-11-02T12:59:00.000-04:00

Play: Rutgers Money Line vs. UConn (3 Stars)

Play: Oregon/Arizona State Over 61 (3 Stars)

Feature Bet of the weekend:
Play Navy -3 (3.5 Stars)
Navy travels to the "Golden Dome" this weekend to take on the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame looking to end the nation's longest losing streak to any one opponent. The Midshipmen have lost 43 in row in this series. However, they have had success versus number as most recently they are a perfect 7-0 ATS when playing at Notre Dame since 1992.

What should help Navy this week is that they are leading the NCAA in rushing averaging 343 yards per game and 5.5 yards per carry. This week they will be playing against a Notre Dame defense who is giving up an average of 192 rushing yards per game on 4.4 yards per carry.

Notre Dame comes into this one hoping to contiue their dominance of Navy but are in the midst of one of the worst seasons in history. They stand a horrible 1-7 SU and 1-3 ATS in home games this season. In their previous game they were shut out by USC at home 38-0.

The Notre Dame offense has been nonexistant this season scoring an average of only 10 points per game on 188 yards of total offense. Their defense hasn't been able to keep the Irish in games as they have given up an average of 29.6 points per game.

SUPPORTING ANGLES: NAVY is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in road games after allowing 475 or more total yards in their previous game since 1992. NAVY is 20-7 ATS (+12.3 Units) in road games after gaining 225 or more rushing yards in 3 straight games since 1992. NOTRE DAME is 1-9 ATS (-8.9 Units) in home games after trailing in their previous game by 17 or more points at the half since 1992.

In their last week Navy surprising lost to Delaware but more than likely were looking ahead to this game as they finally have a legitimate shot at winning this one. I'm taking Navy in this one.

Peakplayers Week 8 Picks

2007-10-26T16:38:00.000-04:00

Cleveland Browns v St Louis Rams
Pick: Cleveland -3 (3 Stars - $100)

Indianapolis Colts v Carolina Panthers
Pick: Indy -7 (3 Stars - $100)

Philadelphia Eagles v Minnesota Vikings
Pick: Philly -1 (4 Stars - $200)

Buffalo Bills v New York Jets
Pick: NY Jets -2.5 (3.5 Stars - $150)

Washington Redskins v New England Patriots
Pick: New England -16.5 (3 Stars - $100)

College Picks

2007-10-26T16:29:00.000-04:00

Boise State vs. Fresno State (Friday 9:00 PM EST - ESPN2)
Through the first five games, Boise State opponents averaged only 12.2 points per game. Over their last two games that number has skyrocketed to 37.5 (not including overtime). The OVER is 9-2 in Fresno's last 11 games as a dog while the OVER is 8-3 in Boise State's last 11 conference games. Both teams possess plenty of firepower; as a matter of fact, they combine to average almost 75 points per game. With all of these factors in mind, it is obvious why over 80% of the early money is on the OVER (63).

Pick Boise State and the OVER.

Indiana vs. Wisconsin (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 12:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -8.5 Wisconsin
After losing two in a row on the road to Big-10 opponents Illinois and Penn State, Wisconsin got a much needed win last week over Northern Illinois 44-3. This week the Badgers will be looking to avoid a three game conference losing streak when they host the Indiana Hoosiers. Wisconsin has not lost three conference games in a row since 2003. The Badgers are 5-2 ATS overall including 3-2 ATS in Big-10 play.

After starting the season 5-1 SU the Indiana Hoosiers have lost back-to-back games and hope that this game will produce their 6th bowl qualifying victory. The Hoosiers haven't faired well on the road in the Big-10 as they are only 2-6 ATS in their last eight conference road games and 3-14-1 ATS on the road after scoring 30 points or more.

SUPPORTING ANGLES: INDIANA is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in road games after 2 consecutive games with a turnover margin of -1 or worse since 1992. WISCONSIN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) after outgaining opp by 225 or more total yards in their previous game over the last 3 seasons. WISCONSIN is 12-1 ATS (+10.9 Units) off 2 or more consecutive unders since 1992.

The last two times these two met Wisconsin won by 35 & 17 points. In addition, Wisconsin is a profitable 4-1 ATS in this series at home since 1992. We're taking Wisconsin in this one

Utah vs. Colorado State (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 5:30 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -5.5
Utah has really come on strong since the return of starting quarterback Brian Johnson who was injured in the 1st half of the season opener versus Oregon St. Utah has also improved their rushing attack dramatically over the last few games and continues to play solid defense. Colorado St. has vastly underachieved this season and comes off their first win of the season last week at UNLV. In spite of this the Rams may be playing for a lame duck coach in Sonny Lubick who has worn out his welcome in Fort Collins. Play on Utah.
Any conference home underdog of 14.5 or less, that is off their first SU win of the season in game 8 or beyond as a conference away underdog, they covered by 11.5 or more, and is facing a foe with a win percentage of .166 or more is 0-9 SU and ATS since 1980. The favorite has won these game by an average of 22.5 points per game.

USC vs. Oregon (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 3:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -3 USC
Has USC fallen off that much where it now should be an underdog? No chance. The Trojans are getting points for the first time since 2003 when they received three points at Auburn in the season opener which was 58 games ago. USC obviously struggled against Stanford in its loss to the Cardinal as well as close wins against Arizona and Washington. However, even as bad as Notre Dame is, the Trojans looked back in top form last Saturday and top to bottom, still possess one of the best teams in the nation.

Oregon will be playing one of its biggest games in a long time and Autzen Stadium is undeniably one of the toughest venues in college football for the opposition. Yet the Ducks are just 15-16 ATS as home chalk since 2001 while going 31-11 straight up over that span as nothing which is nothing very impressive. The offense has been blowing through their opponents but now the Ducks face a real defensive test as the Trojans come in with the 3rd ranked total defense in the nation.

No team steps up better in big games than USC as it is used to being in the forefront while Oregon failed in its lone opportunity this season at home against California. Oregon ranks second nationally in total offense, averaging 550 yards a game. The Ducks gain an average of 6.94 yards a play while scoring 46.6 ppg, the kind of numbers USC's offense used to put up. However, the Trojans have allowed 255 yards or fewer in six of their seven games this season.

Mark Sanchez has been named the starter for the Trojans as Josh Davis Booty will rest his broken finger for another week. Sanchez passed for four touchdowns without an interception in USC's 38-0 win over Notre Dame. The offense got some momentum at just the right time so if winning a shootout is needed, then USC is capable. Oregon comes in with the 67th ranked defense in the country and there is no reason to think it can slow down USC considering it has allowed at least 400 yards in three of the last four games.

The Oregon defense struggled against Washington last Saturday and that helps set up USC in a powerful situation. Play against any team coming off a road game where both teams scored 31 points or more going up against an opponent off a double digit road win. This situation is 43-15 ATS (74.1 percent) over the last 10 seasons with the average point differential being +12.7 ppg. This situation is a perfect 2-0 this season and has won 13 of the last 17 instances. USC gets back into the national championship picture.

Play USC Trojans.

Utah vs. Colorado State (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 5:30 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -5.5 Utah
The Utes are much more formidable with their starting QB Brian Johnson back in the lineup. Now, they take on a Colorado State team that won for the first time in 13 games, a win over UNLV last week. B Johnson, who can run and throw, along with tailback Darrell Mack, provide a great one-two punch at the QB/RB positions. Mack has topped 100 yards in four straight games, and is primed for a 5th straight today. UNLV piled up 559 yards of total offense last week. Imagine what this Utah offense will do today. Colorado State just doesn't have the athletes to keep up. Utah went to Louisville and won and they won at TCU. No reason to think they won't win by double digits here in this spot.

Georgia vs. Florida (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 3:30 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: 8.5 Georgia
At 3:30 pm, our complimentary selection is on the Georgia Bulldogs plus the points over Florida, as Georgia had last week off after defeating Vandy two weeks ago, while Florida went into Lexington last Saturday to play Kentucky. Dating back to last season, rested teams off a win are 22-7 ATS vs. unrested foes, including a perfect 15-0 ATS when not laying 4 or more points. Take Georgia.

South Carolina vs. Tennessee U (NCAAF) - Oct 27, 2007 7:45 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: -3 Tennessee
Take Tennessee -3 over South Carolina (7:45 pm ESPN)
Tennessee won this game last year by a score of 31-24 in Columbia and in fact has won 13 of the last 14 meetings overall. Don’t forget that Doc’s Sports Big Ten Game of the Year goes this Saturday. This is the game that won 19 years in a row during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s and is a can’t miss play for any big game hunter.

World Series Game 1

2007-10-24T15:43:00.000-04:00

Boston -1.5 (4 Stars)

Baseball is all about timing. With 8 days off and facing the master of the postseason, Josh Beckett, the cards are stacked against the Rockies. Take the Sox.

Monday Night Special

2007-10-22T18:21:00.000-04:00

Indianapolis -4 ($200 - 4 Stars)

We don't envision the Colts slipping up in this one, coming off their bye and with the motivation of their blowout loss to Jacksonville last year.

Peakplayers Week 7 Picks

2007-10-21T09:18:00.000-04:00

Play: REDSKINS -9 $100 (3 Stars)
Play: ATLANTA +8.5 $100 (3 Stars)
Play: VIKINGS +9.5 $100 (3 Stars)
Play: HOUSTON +1 $100 (3 Stars)
Play: SAN FRANCISCO +10 $100 (3 Stars)

Pick of the Week: MIAMI +17 $200 (4 Stars)
Brady is 2-4 lifetime in Miami. For some reason the Dolphins play NE tough at home. We'll take the whopping 17 points.