NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Monday Night Football

The St. Louis Rams (5-5) at The Green Bay Packers (6-4)
Against the Spread: Rams 3-6-1 | Packers 4-6-0
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -7 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -6 -110
Over/Under 51u to 51.5u -110

St. Louis had a good first half against the Buffalo defense, but that was it. QB Marc Bulger ended the day 27 of 45 and got picked 3 times. Mighty Martz and his receivers resorted to name calling and accusing the backs of trying to “hurt” them. This is football, right? RB Marshall Faulk was held to 6 yards and because they were playing from behind most of the game, only carried a handful of times. WR Isaac Bruce was well contained getting only a few catches for about 60 yards. Although his brother in arms, Tory Holt fared better (90yds and a td) he was hurt late in the game and is listed as questionable for Monday night.

All the same, the Rams can be very explosive on offense and the defense of Green Bay is tenuous at best, particularly in the secondary. Faulk should bounce back just fine, and have better than single digit numbers. The injury to Holt doesn't take this team out of contention with ample talent in Bruce as well as Dane Looker. Moving the ball down field is probably not going to be a big issue. Stopping their opponent might be.

The Packers are on a roll and QB Brett Favre knows they have to stay on it. With the Vikings going to 7-4, Green Bay, much like San Diego in the West, has to have a win just to keep up in the NFC North. With wide receivers like Javon Walker, Donald Driver and in the clutch, Robert Ferguson, to throw to it wouldn't seem like an overwhelming task. Particularly against one of the weaker pass defenders like that of the Rams. The problem here is that with backs Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport as huge questions, is Tony Fisher going to be enough threat? Even though St. Louis has one of the worst rushing D's in the league, Green Bay has to proffer up some semblance of a real ground game to allow Favre to put in motion the play-action. The Packers also have to stop the Rams at least once during the game.

Green Bay's better overall defensively but have been scored on readily by strong passing offenses. The Vikings hit them for 34 points without Moss a couple weeks ago and the Colts jammed 45 down their throat when they met early in the season. For that matter Tennessee's mediocre passing game looked great against them. Cornerback Ahmad Carroll has been improving and his wing man, Al Harris, has started to be a bother to wideouts. A couple of things that may help this situation will be the possible return to full duty of safety Darren Sharper and corner Michael Hawthorne. Sharper has seen a little action over the past two games in the dime package, but hasn't started since week 7. Hawthorne hasn't started since week 5 so having him back in the rotation and relatively healthy, should boost the secondaries confidence.

There's also a little added incentive for the Packers, they got embarrassed in their last MNF game.

My Online Betting Action: The Packers -6

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting ESPN Sunday Night Football

The Oakland Raiders (3-7) at The Denver Broncos (7-3)
Against the Spread: Rams 3-6-1 | Packers 4-6-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN Sunday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: The Broncos -10.5 -108 Over/Under 45.5u +109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -11.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -13 -105
Over/Under 42.5u to 43u -110

Tonight’s game is out of bounds this week.

The Broncos are pretty solid for the win but covering an 11.5 to 12 point spread is a whole other matter. QB Jake Plummer just has not been consistent enough for faith that he can lead Denver to a 14 point victory, even against the dismal defense of the Oakland Raiders.

By the same token, expecting Oakland to keep the game within shouting distance is not much better an option. With no running game to speak of and with RB Tyrone Wheatley a big question mark to even get carries, the scoring pretty much lies in the hands of an even less proven commodity, QB Kerry Collins. He is as likely to throw interceptions as touchdowns.

An argument could be made that the Over at 42.5 isn’t a complete waste of money.

My Online Betting Action: None


Still waiting to decide on Monday Night’s game to see what the RB status is with Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport both questionable.

This is for having the post up so late, site was having trouble and I couldn't get logged in:

Anna ponders the outcome of MNF

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 12 Picks of the Week

Early Games

The Baltimore Ravens (7-3) at The New England Patriots (9-1)
Against the Spread: Ravens 8-2-0 | Patriots 7-1-2
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -8 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7 -108 to -115
Over/Under 35.5u -110

Even though Ray Lewis started the season a little off kilter, he has pounded his way back into the leadership role. With his 97 tackles, he leads not just with words but by example and his comrades have followed. The Baltimore Ravens have one of the most points producing defenses in the NFL. They have manged to convert 4 of their 14 interceptions into 24 points and have gained another 30 points on 9 forced fumbles. It's a good thing too, because they are certainly not a powerhouse offense.

The Raven's QB, Kyle Boller, had to remind his teammates at half-time last week that there still was hope. This was after they were held scoreless by the very mediocre defense of the Cowboys. Their already anemic offense is going to be without RB Jamal Lewis. Considering that he accounts for 1/3 of Baltimore's 15 offensive touchdowns, this is an injury that they can ill afford. Boller has 7 int's to go with his 9 passing touchdowns and his entire receiving group comes in with only 5 scores to their credit. Those numbers don't exactly put the fear of God in opponents hearts.

The New England Patriots, by contrast, got a boost to their offense with the return of WR Deion Branch. With his return they have gained yet another fantastic route runner with extremely good hands and reliability. QB Tom Brady couldn't be happier, as he now has what is arguably the best receiving corps in the league today. Their biggest problem in that area is who to name as the #1 wide-out. New England's RB, Corey Dillon, has proven to be everything they were hoping for, and then some. And if that wasn't enough they have the coaching prowess of Bill Belichick to get them out of some tough spots with losses on the defensive side of the ball.

The Patriots lost CB Ty Law in the opening moments of their single loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. This was just one game removed from losing his counter part Tyrone Poole. Belichick, undaunted, began studying even more than his norm and with the help defensive coordinator, Romeo Crennel, devised schemes to disguise the weakness that they have in the secondary. To date it has done very well. Despite the missing starters, New England has allowed an average of only 17 points a game and has 13 picks. This with a rookie free agent and nickel and dime (no pun intended) backs rotating in as starters and using a WR, Troy Brown, for nickel and dime situations (again no pun intended). With Asante Samuel and Randall Gay both banged up Belichick is going to have to work a little more of his voodoo this week to keep the secondary looking like a secondary.

My Online Betting Action: The Patriots -7

That's it until Mondays game, but I'll give you a hint... Say Cheese!

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 12 Picks of the Week

Last weekends run of good luck by the favorites was nice. Looking for it to continue should be done cautiously. At least that is how it appears from this seat.

Just a couple of games that will be getting action from me, particularly since sobering after my 4 day run of flu meds...

The Philadelphia Eagles (9-1) at The N.Y. Giants (5-5)
Against the Spread: Eagles 7-3-0 | Giants 5-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: The Eagles -7 -109 37.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7 -105 to -115
Over/Under 37.5u -110

The Eagles have been solid ATS all season. This is a tough call mainly due to the fact that they may struggle getting good field position with the injuries to PR Reno Mahe and Safety J.R. Reed. They will probably feel the sting from Reed's absence more at the KR spot than as a D-back. RB Brian Westbrook got into the mix last week catching two passes for TD's. More importantly was the fact that he broke the 50yrd rushing mark against a good rushing D in the Redskins. Sounds laughable, but the fact is if he puts 45 or so yards on the ground the Eagles points increase considerably.

Donovan McNabb and crew have put on clinics in the passing game since the upset against the the Steelers and should be in good form this week despite the missing L.J. Smith (TE).

The Giants young gunner Eli Manning didn't do anything spectacular in his debut but he didn't do anything spectacularly wrong either. He got the jitters out of the way early and stayed composed, leading the Giants on two good drives in the second half to make it a game against the Falcons. Running back Tiki Barber will, barring injury, more than likely have his career best rushing year. Jeremy Shockey is tied for third in touchdowns with 5 and in the top ten overall in receiving yards.

So why is N.Y. 5-5 and not 8-2 or 7-3? Injuries that have rendered the O line nearly defenseless against the pass rush. The Giants have great prospects for next year and any fan has got to be pleased about that. This season however they have just too many injuries in too many places to stand up against the top level teams for four quarters. That's what the are going to face Sunday against the Eagles


My Online Betting Action: The Eagles -7.


The San Diego Chargers (7-3) at The Kansas City Chiefs (3-7)
Against the Spread: Chargers 8-1-1 | Chiefs 3-7-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -100
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -110
Over/Under 51.5u to 52.5u -110

The Chargers, or more to the point Tomlinson, Gates and Brees, put on another good show last week against the Oakland Raiders. Were it not for the early season loss to the Broncos, they would be in sole possession of first place in the AFC West with a 7-3 record. As it stands now however, they are going to have to fight and beat 3-7 teams just to have a shot at a Wild Card. Don't think for a second that this isn't exactly what Schottenheimer has been preaching to the players and staff all week. The biggest hurdle for them in this match-up is their lack-luster passing D.


Kansas City's Trent Green is a top tier quarterback and if he had just one more solid receiver would be, in all likelihood, in the top three. But he doesn't. Johnny Morton has great hands and solid route running abilities, but is simply too small and too slow for the deep ball threat. Eddie Kennison, speedy though he may be, falls off routes too often and has a tendency to drop perfectly catchable balls. The two have done a great job over the last four games but it has been against “less than” passing defenses like that of the Chargers. They are going to have to continue those type of numbers to keep in this game.

The fact that the Chiefs have no hopes of seeing post season play means the Vermeil is going to be very careful when it comes to his star running back Priest Holmes. Holmes, still ailing from the knee injury suffered in week 9 against Tampa, probably won't suit up for his third consecutive game. His back-up, Derrick Blaylock, will be starting and although he looked great against the weak rushing D of the Saints, came up short against Patriots and will be playing dinged up.

When all is said and done however, look at San Diego's overall game-play and the fact that they have the best ATS in the NFL. As underdogs once again, you have to like them. Particularly when so much is riding on every win for the Chargers.


My Online Betting Action: The Chargers +3.


The Washington Redskins (3-7) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-1)
Against the Spread: Redskins 3-7-0 | Steelers 7-2-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Steelers -10.5 -105 Over/Under 36u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -12 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -10.5 -102 to -110
Over/Under 35.5u -110

The Redskins are going through some growing pains. RB Clinton Portis has not been the complete answer on offense that many were hoping for when they dealt Champ Bailey for him. He hasn't had a bad year, just not a great year. Washington has continued to struggle moving the ball, much as they did under Spurrier. The lack of protection up front, whether due to injury or not, has cost them dearly. Even though Gibbs has made some changes and should continue to improve this club, they are still missing some key ingredients needed to make a winning football team.

Where the Redskins do shine is on D. Sitting in the top ranks in defense, Washington has proven to be a formidable foe. At number 2 overall with the 3rd best rushing and 7th best passing defense in the league they are not an easy object to move. They allowed the Eagles to score, but the 28 points is not as bad as it looks. That was do more to the fact that the D was worn out than by any deficiency in their play.

Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger showed his rookie side last week against the stout defense of the Bengals. He ended the day 15-21 and only 84 net in the air. His rebound may be hampered by the loss of his “go to” receiver, Plaxico Burress. Although the Steelers did come away with the W, this was not the Giant Killer that defeated the Patriots and the Eagles. His offense looked downright average, which came as quite a surprise to many. Roethlisberger is young, talented and learning, but he is not a seasoned veteran.

By all accounts it looks as though RB Duce Staley will be playing, but he is not without question. Having been sidelined the last three weeks with a hamstring injury the Bus better have the engine idling. Speaking of which, how many more 30 carry games does RB Jerome Bettis have left in him? The Steelers have counted their blessings with the numbers he has been able to produce starting in Staley's absence, be he's no spring chicken and that body has taken a lot of pounding through the years. The Steelers too, are going to rely on their defense to play up to the #1 ranking they have.

Two ways on this one.

My Online Betting Action: The Redskins +11 & Under 36.

Thanksgiving, Football and Betting Against the Spreads

Happy Thanksgiving!

Going to bang this one out fast, down with the flu for two days and still not quite w/it.

DISLCAIMER
I've been downing Niquil or Dayquil or Somequil since Monday night so if this is complete gibberish please have pity on me.

Honestly, these are two pretty lopsided games, and if they weren't Turkeyday games would warrant next to 0 attention. It's only because they are what all of us fans will be doing between bouts of sustained face stuffing that makes them worth a couple words.

The Indianapolis Colts (7-3) at The Detroit Lions (4-6)
Against the Spread: Colts 6-3-1 | Lions 5-5-0
Game Time: 12:35 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: The Colts -7.5 53u -107
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -10 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -9.5 -110
Over/Under 53.5u to 54u -110

Colts offense blah blah blah... We all know it, they can gun away and the Edge showed a little of that stuff that made him so highly touted early in his career. It was against Chicago, so whatever. They still have no defense and they will be playing against something the resembles an offense in the Detroit Lions.

Detroit is coming off another hard loss, last week at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings. The Lions defense did a good job of holding their own for 3 quarters of play but let it slip out of there hands in the fourth. It didn't help much that Joey and the boys got nothing going in the entire second half.

Still, losing two heart breakers as underdogs and with the opportunity to win both, has got to sting.

Just the same, they are going to be up against the toughest offensive opponent in the NFL. So even though they should be able to score, keeping a healthy quick striking team like that of the Colts from getting ahead early and stretching that lead throughout the game is going to be a really tall order. But they might keep it close, so if you got it at -7.5, the Colts aren't too bad. At -9.5 to -10, it's a bit sketchy.

WR Az Hakim is Questionable and sat out practice. If the NFC wasn't so weak this year you might think they would sit him and not take any chances, but it is, so they might.

Very small wager, really just to make the game more fun to watch.

My Online Betting Action: Two Team Teaser Over 46.5 + The Colts -3.5.


The Chicago Bears (4-6) at The Dallas Cowboys (3-7)
Against the Spread: Bears 5-5-0 | Cowboys 3-7-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: The Cowboys -3.5 +102 Over/Under 36u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Cowboys -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Cowboys -3 -110
Over/Under 36u -110

This one really takes the Blue Ribbon in the “Who Gives a Crap” contest.

Hopefully most of us will be so doped up on tryptophan by this point in the day that we will be snoring through a good portion of this game.

Frankly, a reason for even a ”fun” wager on this match-up is a hard one to find.

The Chicago Bears are hurting everywhere. They are Bottom Feeders offensively. Rookie QB Craig Krenzel is being mauled by every defense he faces, having been sacked 14 times in his last 3 outings. He has 5 INT's to go along with his 3 touchdowns and he has fumbled twice in each of the last 3. Yes folks, count 'em, that's 19 turnovers, by 1 player on the offense. The Bears biggest defensive asset, LB Brian Urlacher, is out for what amounts to be the rest of the season, having surgery this past Monday to relieve pressure in his calf in an injury sustained from being kicked last week. But hey, Bears fans, you guys are playing Dallas, so there's always that.

Ugh, Dallas... what the hell? They could very possibly be the worst looking football team in the NFL next to the Oakland Raiders. Seriously these guys can't get anything right. They make a hand-off to the running back look like a complicated play. That said, rookie QB Drew Henson looked decent after his mishap on his first snap as an NFL quarterback. He managed a late drive for a touchdown and ended his day 6 of 6 for 47 yards and a TD. He will be getting the nod to go, despite Parcells weak attempt at deceiving the press.

So we have a 4-6 team against a 3-7 team both with rookie QB's and not much else. Why this one isn't a pick is kind of baffling. Chicago has the slight edge on offense as their Kid has a few more games (and sacks) under his belt, and Dallas' defense is nothing more than a shadow of what it was last season.

The stats on this match-up are not even worth the waste of cyber-paper. Heck, if both teams could be lose they probably would.

If you have to do something with this game to make it worth watching between fits of snoring then the Over is probably your best shot. Neither of these teams can stop anything to speak of so a 23-17 final is not TOO hard to believe.

OR... another two teamer might not be a bad play. Chicago +9.5 & Over 30.

You know, that really isn't that bad. Then again it might be the flu medicine talking here...

Just for the sake of having a reason to watch this game.

My Online Betting Action: Two Team Teaser Over 30 + The Bears +9.5.
(again very small wager)

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Monday Night Football

The New England Patriots (8-1) at The Kansas City Chiefs (3-6)
Against the Spread: Patriots 6-1-2 | Chiefs 3-6-0
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -107 Over/Under 52.5u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -105 to -110
Over/Under 52.5u -110
Action already on Patriots -3 and Under 52.5

First of all, WooHoo for me! First solid week this season.

After a series of break-even/minor-loss weekends I had a good Sunday.

4-2-1 --- with two of my wins being big bets and my other big bet being a push, tonights outcome will only be icing on the cake.

Speaking of tonights game...

New England historically does well on MNF, but then again so does KC. That being said the Patriots have seen a few more than the Chiefs have and there is something to be said for being “under the gun”, so to speak, playing on national TV.

Offensively, you can go across the board and every category leans towards the Chiefs. Time of possession, 3rd down percentage, Points for, Yardage, etc. Their biggest problem in the offense is the fact that they will have to go it without RB Priest Holmes again.

Kansas City on the other side of the ball... well, now that's not so good. To go along with their superior stats on offense, they are almost equally as bad in nearly every category on defense. Again, Points Allowed, Yardage, Etc. Sitting at 26th overall, 26th against the pass, 14th against the rush, they are not a formidable adversary.

Their Give-away takeaway ratio is terrible (-5), whereas the Patriots are above average (+4). And again, they are not going to have Holmes to help them keep control of the clock.

Although all this makes it even tougher for Kansas City, this may not be quite as damaging as it would seem. Running back Derrick Blaylock had a good outing last week rushing for 186 yards on 30+ carries. So the ground game isn't completely gone with-out Holmes.

Still missing from New England's lineup will be corners Ty Law and Tyrone Poole. The Patriots have been without these guys for the last few weeks and have rebounded nicely after the loss to Pittsburgh. They beat Buffalo by 23 and more key to this match-up, handled the pass attack of Bulger and the receiving corp of the Rams, taking that game by 18 points.

That game tells me they can keep pace with big offenses even with those guys missing. No doubt they would love to have them in the backfield, but they aren't a bust without them.

On offense, the Patriots have shown time and again that they can go toe to toe with darned near anyone.

The under was a good choice primarily due to the fact that Priest was going to be out of the line-up. On further review it may not have been such a good wager.

In any case, here's what we have cooking tonight:


My Online Betting Action: The Patriots -3 | Under 52.5

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting ESPN Night Game

Early Games

The Green Bay Packers (5-4) at The Houston Texans (4-5)
Against the Spread: Packers 4-5-0 | Texans 4-5-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN Night Game
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -110 Over/Under 49.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -109 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -109 to -120
Over/Under 49u to 51u -110

Going over this game has been a bit troubling.

Green Bay seems to be the obvious choice. Since the return of tackle Grady Jackson, it seems that the Packers defense has started playing, if not inspired, at least decent football. Even with safety Darren Sharper limited to only the dime package, they were able to fend off an end of the game comeback from the Vikings. Youngster, Ahmad Carroll, has started to look considerably better. That means a lot since it is the pass defense that needs the most help.

Statistically speaking, the Packers are slightly better defensively, giving up just about a point less a game than the Texans. Offensively, they rank just slightly ahead of the Texans but are more well rounded. The Texans are ranked 9th overall, breaking down to the 21st rush and the 9th pass. Meanwhile Green Bay sits 5th overall, but with a 9th ranked rush and 3rd ranked pass. Even more to the point is the scoring discrepancy. The Packers average almost 27 points per game versus the Texans 21 (approx.).

With quarterback Brett Favre tossing to the likes of Donald Driver and Javon Walker, Robert Ferguson and tight end Bubba Franks it is no wonder that they have the number 3 passing game. Plus you have Ahman Green in the backfield laying the foundation for one of the all time greatest play action passers in the NFL to stand on.

Again looks obvious for the Packers to cover a 3 point spread.

But the Texans seem to have that something that never lets you feel comfortable betting against them. Quarterback David Carr had been on a hot streak that had him in the top 5 QB ratings. He has thrown for over 2300 yards and still has a completion percentage of about 62%. This is counting the last two games in which he has thrown for 0 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. He has the ability to lead the team and spreads the ball around with great accuracy. His wide outs can't complain, none of the four are under 250 yards. And these aren't star studded guys, Jabar Gaffney, Andre Johnson, Corey Bradford, Derick Armstrong, these are not household names here.

Other than running backs Domanick Davis and maybe Tony Hollings, there aren't a handful of players on this team that the average armchair quarterback could name. (No offense to you hardcore fans, I know you guys know these players). And yet they have managed to at least stay in games they they were supposed to get blow out of. That was up until week 9.

Denver started picking away at the offensive line about mid-way through the game. The Colts picked up where Denver left off and furthered that cause. Of Carr's 25 sacks, 9 of them came in the last two games. Four from Denver and Five from Indianapolis. The Packers know that getting to Carr early discourages him. KGB has been “The Man” when comes to doing just that for Green Bay. He has 4.5 sacks and countless knocked-downs.

With KGB, and Na'il Diggs on the right side, and the middle plugged pretty well with Jackson and Barnett it's going to be tough going for the running game of Houston. And Houston is going to need something on the ground to keep Green Bay out of Carrs face all night.

So why so much about this game? Well mainly because writing about it sometimes clarifies thoughts.

What started out to be a questionable game in my mind has since turned into a big bet game.

The bottom line is, Houston can't stop the air assault that the Packers have, and despite a sore knee Ahamn Green is going to be the toughest back they have had to deal with since Priest Holmes. The double trouble from both the air and the ground is too much for the Texans D.

My Online Betting Action: The Packers -3.

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 11 Picks of the Week

Jeez Louise what a week. Power outage on Thursday. Friday spent trying to figure out what had happened and getting all the spoiled food out of the fridge. Then there's my favorite, Shopping! To replace all the food lost.

Now I've got about 15lbs of thawed meat that I need to eat in the next week. With Thanksgiving right around the corner that's going to be tough.

Maybe a mid-fall BBQ next week-end...

Anyway, humblest apologies for my tardiness in getting anything decent posted this week.

Now on to where my money's going this weekend.


The Arizona Cardinals (4-5) at The Carolina Panthers (2-7)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 6-3-0 | Panthers 4-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: Panthers -3 -100 to -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Panthers -2.5 -108 to -110
Over/Under 37u -110

Quick rundown...

Cardinals are bad, but getting better. Carolina is bad and getting worse.

Arizona is statistically behind the Panthers both on the offense and defense, but that doesn't tell the whole story. They have improved those numbers dramatically in the last 4 weeks with wins against Seattle, Miami and last week the Giants.

What makes this game likable is the fact that the Panthers are almost completely without weapons offensively. Yes they can stop the passing game to a degree, but they are horrible against the rush. More to the point, they need to be able to pass the ball to get anything going on offense and they just don't have the manpower left to do that.

The Panthers finally caught a break and got to play the 49ers last week to pick up their second win of the season. Not much to brag about with that one. Now they are looking at starting Rodney Peete behind center, with Jake Delhomme still nursing a fractured thumb. Carolina has no one left at running back and their biggest defensive threat, CB Artrell Hawkins, is questionable for Sundays game. Still scratching my head at this line.

My Online Betting Action: The Cardinals Money Line.


The Dallas Cowboys (3-6) at The Baltimore Ravens (6-3)
Against the Spread: Cowboys 3-6-0 | Ravens 7-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Ravens -8 -105 Over/Under 35.5u -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Ravens -9 -100
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Ravens -7.5 -110
Over/Under 35.5u to 36.5u -110

The Over in this one is not a waste of money.

The Cowboys have hardly been any real defensive threat, and no offense to speak of.
Bill Parcels has all but given up on this team. This may well motivate them to prove him wrong. Counting any tactic out of Parcel's play book is a bad thought process. More production on both sides of the ball from this team Sunday.

Baltimore hasn't exactly played stellar, Ray Lewis, style ball lately either. But the still manage to keep opponents from a lot of points. All the same, a win at 23-17 sounds about right.

Taking the Ravens -8 to -9, fishy...

My Online Betting Action: Over 35.5.


The N.Y. Jets (6-3) at The Cleveland Browns (3-6)
Against the Spread: Jets 4-4-1 | Browns 4-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -1 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -0 -110
Over/Under 37.5u -110
That a 6-3 team is a pick vs a 3-6 team speaks volumes as to parity in the NFL today

The Jets loss to the Ravens last week has caused a bit of controversy around the leadership abilities of Coach Herm Edwards and his staff. The obvious tardiness in getting the plays called into the offense cost them a win last week. The Jets didn't play great ball, but they played good enough to win. That one is a coaching loss, pure and simple. Assuming that Edwards had a few Staff meetings, that had better have had a pretty harsh tone, that shouldn't be an issue Sunday.

Cleveland is coming off some heartbreaking losses over the last few weeks. They played good old fashioned hard nosed defense. Quarterback Jeff Garcia can make some plays happen when he gets his feet moving and WR Dennis Northcutt is without questions a deep ball threat. Running back William Green has shown the ability to break off some good runs and is a strong back.

In the end, even without Chad, the Jets are the better football team. They can't afford to drop to 6-4. They have to get this win just to keep pace in the AFC.

My Online Betting Action: The Jets -0.


The Pittsburgh Steelers (8-1) at The Cincinnati Bengals (4-5)
Against the Spread: Steelers 7-2-0 | Bengals 3-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4 -107 Over/Under 40.5u -107
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4 -103 to -115
Over/Under 40.5u -110

Feeling dirty just writing this... Cincinnati is over-rated at the moment. Pittsburgh is going to bring them back to reality. This is a first for me, betting against my team. But this line is so out of whack that there is just no getting away from it.

My Online Betting Action: The Steelers -4 (-7 is more realistic).


The San Diego Chargers (6-3) at The Oakland Raiders (3-6)
Against the Spread: Chargers 7-1-1 | Raiders 3-6-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -3.5 -100 Over/Under 48.5u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -4.5 –110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -3.5 -110
Over/Under 47.5u to 48u -110
Action already on Chargers -3.5

As mentioned earlier, action is already on the Chargers.

Who would have believed the quarterback Drew Brees would sit in top 3 in the QB rankings half-way through the season? Not Marty! If he would have, Philip Rivers might not be on the San Diego roster.

The real meat is in the running game. RB LaDainian Tomlinson has been such a solid back this year. Putting up good numbers game in and game out. His counterpart, Jesse Chatman has been able to come in and get the job done both in situational plays as well as giving Tomlinson some rest. Add into the mix one of the better special teams in the league that consistently gives them good starting field position and the recipe is already written for success.

Finding something good to say about Oakland is damn near impossible this season. They don't look like a team that belongs in the CFL, let alone the NFL. When San Diego first encountered the Oakland Raiders it was at Jack Murphy (or whatever the hell they call it now) and the Chargers thumped them 42-14. Being in Oakland isn't going to change the fact that the Raiders Stink, and it isn't going to help the score look any less one sided.

My Online Betting Action: The Chargers -3.5.
(-4 is fine and I would have taken it at that as well)


The Washington Redskins (3-6) at The Philadelphia Eagles (8-1)
Against the Spread: Redskins 3-6-0 | Eagles 6-3-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -10.5 -102 Over/Under 38u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -12 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -10 –106 to -110
Over/Under 38u to 38.5u -110

The Washington Redskins head into this game with nothing to lose except respect. No one has blown them out this season, the biggest margin was 14 against the Packers. Every other game has been within 7. They will be starting Patrick Ramsey at QB and he has seen some success against the Eagles.

The Eagles are facing off against the second best defense in the league. The best, Pittsburgh, schooled them. Besides the lopsided win against Dallas last week, the offense of the Eagles has looked rather anemic. They have yet to get any real ground game going with Levens and Westbrook. That is going to hurt them against this defense.

Too big a spread.

My Online Betting Action: The Redskins +11.


Still mulling over the Packers V. Texans game.

MNF coming up next

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Betting Lines Week 11

The Arizona Cardinals (4-5) at The Carolina Panthers (2-7)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 6-3-0 | Panthers 4-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: Panthers -3 -100 to -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Panthers -3 -100 to -105
Over/Under 37.5u -110


The Dallas Cowboys (3-6) at The Baltimore Ravens (6-3)
Against the Spread: Cowboys 3-6-0 | Ravens 7-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Ravens -8 -105 Over/Under 35.5u -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Ravens -9 -100
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Ravens -7.5 -110
Over/Under 36u to 36.5u -110


The Denver Broncos (6-3) at The New Orleans Saints (4-5)
Against the Spread: Broncos 3-4-2 | Saints 3-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -4 -101 Over/Under 47u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -4 -110 to -115
Over/Under 47u -106 to -115


The Detroit Lions (4-5) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-5-0 | Vikings 6-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -105 Over/Under 48u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -110
Over/Under 48u -110


The Indianapolis Colts (6-3) at The Chicago Bears (4-5)
Against the Spread: Colts 5-3-1 | Bears 5-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -7.5 -107 Over/Under 44.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -8 -100 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -7 -115
Over/Under 44.5u -110


The N.Y. Jets (6-3) at The Cleveland Browns (3-6)
Against the Spread: Jets 4-4-1 | Browns 4-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Browns -1 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -1 -110
Over/Under 37.5u -110
That a 6-3 team is a pick vs a 3-6 team speaks volumes as to parity in the NFL today


The Pittsburgh Steelers (8-1) at The Cincinnati Bengals (4-5)
Against the Spread: Steelers 7-2-0 | Bengals 3-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4 -107 Over/Under 40.5u -107
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4 -103 to -115
Over/Under 40.5u -110


The San Fransisco 49ers (1-8) at The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-6)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-5-0 | Buccaneers 3-4-2
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buccaneers -8 -108 Over/Under 42u -101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Buccaneers -9 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Buccaneers -7 -115
Over/Under 41.5u to 42u -110


The St Louis Rams (5-4) at The Buffalo Bills (3-6)
Against the Spread: Rams 3-5-1 | Bills 5-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Rams -1 -106 Over/Under 40u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Rams -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Rams -1 -104 to -110
Over/Under 40u -110


The Tennessee Titans (3-6) at The Jacksonville Jaguars (6-3)
Against the Spread: Titans 3-6-0 | Jaguars 6-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current High NFL Betting Line: OTB
Current Low NFL Betting Line: OTB



The Miami Dolphins (1-8) at The Seattle Seahawks (5-4)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-7-0 | Seahawks 4-5-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -10 -103 Over/Under 37.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -11 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line Seahawks -10 -105 to -110
Over/Under 37.5u -110


The San Diego Chargers (6-3) at The Oakland Raiders (3-6)
Against the Spread: Chargers 7-1-1 | Raiders 3-6-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -3.5 -100 Over/Under 48.5u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -4.5 –110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -3.5 -110
Over/Under 48u to 48.5u -110
Action already on Chargers -3.5

The Atlanta Falcons (7-2) at The N.Y. Giants (5-4)
Against the Spread: Falcons 4-5-0 | Giants 5-4-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Falcons -3 -105 Over/Under 40.5u +104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Falcons -3 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Falcons -2.5 –110 to -115
Over/Under 40u to 40.5u -110

The Washington Redskins (3-6) at The Philadelphia Eagles (8-1)
Against the Spread: Redskins 3-6-0 | Eagles 6-3-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -10.5 -102 Over/Under 38u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -12 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -10.5 –102 to -110
Over/Under 38u to 38.5u -110

The Green Bay Packers (5-4) at The Houston Texans (4-5)
Against the Spread: Packers 4-5-0 | Texans 4-5-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN Night Game
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -110 Over/Under 49.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -109 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -109 to -120
Over/Under 49.5u -110


The New England Patriots (8-1) at The Kansas City Chiefs (3-6)
Against the Spread: Patriots 6-1-2 | Chiefs 3-6-0
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -107 Over/Under 52.5u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -105 to -110
Over/Under 52.5u -110
Action already on Patriots -3 and Under 52.5

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Betting Lines Week 10

Just because I can... and that was a really BAD post.

Anna makes losing FUN!

Lines will be up tomorrow, and a concerted effort to have picks done Thursday (although no promises).

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Betting Lines Week 11

First off, sorry for not posting on the Monday Night Game (I did bet it, Phili -7). Work interrupted my real life and this is the first chance I've had to get a post up.

Second, rather than posting the opening lines etc. I'm going to post my betting results. I look at it this way, we are half way through the season so might as well show you guys how I've done thus far.

The ONLY alterations that I have made to this report is to "x" out the betting amounts. Everything else is a copy-and-paste from my favored online sportsbook.

So for the record:

26-24-1

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11/15/2004 20:00:38 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PHILADELPHIA -7.0
Won Straight Wager F 1 11/15 PHILADELPHIA AT DALLAS

11/14/2004 16:55:47 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW ENGLAND -7.0
Won Straight Wager F 33 11/14 BUFFALO AT NEW ENGLAND

11/14/2004 12:28:09 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on KANSAS CITY -3.5
Lost Straight Wager F 23 11/14 KANSAS CITY AT NEW ORLEANS

11/14/2004 12:27:57 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on ST LOUIS +2.5
Won Straight Wager F 21 11/14 SEATTLE AT ST LOUIS

11/14/2004 12:27:35 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PITTSBURGH -3.5
Won Straight Wager F 11 11/14 PITTSBURGH AT CLEVELAND

11/14/2004 12:27:23 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW YORK J +1.0
Lost Straight Wager F 9 11/14 BALTIMORE AT NEW YORK J

11/07/2004 12:50:56 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on ST LOUIS -2.5
Lost Straight Wager F 27 11/7 NEW ENGLAND AT ST LOUIS

11/07/2004 11:31:29 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on KANSAS CITY -3.0
Lost Straight Wager F 19 11/7 KANSAS CITY AT TAMPA BAY

11/07/2004 10:12:46 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on ARIZONA
Won Straight Wager F 17 11/7 ARIZONA AT MIAMI

11/07/2004 10:09:54 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on HOUSTON +7.0
Lost Straight Wager F 29 11/7 HOUSTON AT DENVER

11/07/2004 10:09:44 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SAN DIEGO -6.5
Won Straight Wager F 25 11/7 NEW ORLEANS AT SAN DIEGO

11/07/2004 10:09:30 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SEATTLE -6.5
Won Straight Wager F 23 11/7 SEATTLE AT SAN FRANCISCO

11/07/2004 10:08:58 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on DETROIT -3.5
Lost Straight Wager F 11 11/7 WASHINGTON AT DETROIT

11/07/2004 10:08:47 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PHILADELPHIA -1.0
Lost Straight Wager F 9 11/7 PHILADELPHIA AT PITTSBURGH

11/07/2004 10:08:37 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW YORK J -3.0
Lost Straight Wager F 7 11/7 NEW YORK J AT BUFFALO

10/31/2004 19:28:04 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on UNDER 35.5
Lost Straight Wager F 29 10/31 SAN FRANCISCO AT CHICAGO

10/31/2004 15:37:25 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on OVER 39.0
Won Straight Wager F 21 10/31 ATLANTA AT DENVER

10/31/2004 15:37:00 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SAN DIEGO -6.5
Won Straight Wager F 27 10/31 OAKLAND AT SAN DIEGO

10/31/2004 15:36:46 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SEATTLE -8.0
Lost Straight Wager F 23 10/31 CAROLINA AT SEATTLE

10/31/2004 15:27:03 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW ENGLAND -3.0
Lost Straight Wager F 25 10/31 NEW ENGLAND AT PITTSBURGH

10/31/2004 12:31:34 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PHILADELPHIA -7.5
Lost Straight Wager F 7 10/31 BALTIMORE AT PHILADELPHIA

10/31/2004 00:42:46 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on GREEN BAY -1.0
Won Straight Wager F 5 10/31 GREEN BAY AT WASHINGTON

10/31/2004 00:41:18 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on MINNESOTA -6.5
Lost Straight Wager F 11 10/31 NEW YORK G AT MINNESOTA

10/31/2004 00:40:35 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on KANSAS CITY +1.0
Won Straight Wager F 15 10/31 INDIANAPOLIS AT KANSAS CITY

10/31/2004 00:40:19 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on DETROIT
Lost Straight Wager F 17 10/31 DETROIT AT DALLAS

10/24/2004 15:23:51 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW ENGLAND -6.0
Pushed Straight Wager F 25 10/24 NEW YORK J AT NEW ENGLAND

10/24/2004 15:23:34 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SEATTLE -6.5
Lost Straight Wager F 29 10/24 SEATTLE AT ARIZONA

10/24/2004 12:14:19 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on MINNESOTA -6.5
Won Straight Wager F 15 10/24 TENNESSEE AT MINNESOTA

10/24/2004 12:12:01 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PHILADELPHIA -7.0
Lost Straight Wager F 11 10/24 PHILADELPHIA AT CLEVELAND

10/24/2004 12:10:14 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on ST LOUIS -6.0
Lost Straight Wager F 19 10/24 ST LOUIS AT MIAMI

10/24/2004 12:09:36 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SAN DIEGO
Won Straight Wager F 17 10/24 SAN DIEGO AT CAROLINA

10/17/2004 19:27:02 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on MINNESOTA -4.0
Won Straight Wager F 33 10/17 MINNESOTA AT NEW ORLEANS

10/17/2004 15:12:25 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on DALLAS -3.0
Lost Straight Wager F 29 10/17 PITTSBURGH AT DALLAS

10/17/2004 12:45:36 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on DENVER -2.0
Won Straight Wager F 31 10/17 DENVER AT OAKLAND

10/17/2004 12:23:17 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PHILADELPHIA -9.5
Won Straight Wager F 15 10/17 CAROLINA AT PHILADELPHIA

10/17/2004 12:12:29 Wagered $10.50 to win $xx.xx on NEW YORK J -10.0
Lost Straight Wager F 11 10/17 SAN FRANCISCO AT NEW YORK J

10/17/2004 11:54:30 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW ENGLAND -3.5
Won Straight Wager F 13 10/17 SEATTLE AT NEW ENGLAND

10/11/2004 20:47:56 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on GREEN BAY -3.0
Lost Straight Wager F 5 10/11 TENNESSEE AT GREEN BAY

10/10/2004 19:51:50 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on WASHINGTON -1.0
Lost Straight Wager F 33 10/10 BALTIMORE AT WASHINGTON

10/10/2004 15:57:25 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SEATTLE -7.5
Lost Straight Wager F 29 10/10 ST LOUIS AT SEATTLE

10/10/2004 15:33:09 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW YORK J -6.5
Lost Straight Wager F 23 10/10 BUFFALO AT NEW YORK J

10/10/2004 13:03:28 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on INDIANAPOLIS -8.5
Won Straight Wager F 13 10/10 OAKLAND AT INDIANAPOLIS

10/10/2004 11:17:03 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on PITTSBURGH -5.5
Won Straight Wager F 11 10/10 CLEVELAND AT PITTSBURGH

10/03/2004 15:27:26 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on NEW YORK J -6.5
Won Straight Wager F 27 10/3 NEW YORK J AT MIAMI

09/27/2004 20:03:48 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on OVER 36.0
Won Straight Wager F 1 9/27 DALLAS AT WASHINGTON

09/19/2004 09:31:37 Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx on SEATTLE -3.0
Won Straight Wager SEATTLE AT TAMPA BAY

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And for those that thought I was crazy about teasers:

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11/14/2004 18:59:20 2 Play 6.0 point Teaser: Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx
Won Teaser Wager
F 33 11/14 BUFFALO AT NEW ENGLAND NEW ENGLAND -7.0 (+6.0) (W)
F 33 11/14 BUFFALO AT NEW ENGLAND OVER 37.5 (-6) (W)

11/08/2004 20:17:43 2 Play 6.0 point Teaser: Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx
Won Teaser Wager
F 3 11/8 MINNESOTA AT INDIANAPOLIS INDIANAPOLIS -7.5 (+6.0) (W)
F 3 11/8 MINNESOTA AT INDIANAPOLIS UNDER 58.0 (+6.0) (W)

11/07/2004 19:20:39 2 Play 6.0 point Teaser: Wagered $xx.xxx to win $xx.xx
Won Teaser Wager
F 31 11/7 CLEVELAND AT BALTIMORE BALTIMORE -6.5 (+6.0) (W)
F 31 11/7 CLEVELAND AT BALTIMORE UNDER 35.0 (+6.0) (W)

11/01/2004 17:51:27 2 Play 6.0 point Teaser: Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx
Won Teaser Wager
F 1 11/1 MIAMI AT NEW YORK J NEW YORK J -7.0 (+6.0) (W)
F 1 11/1 MIAMI AT NEW YORK J OVER 36.0 (-6) (W)

09/26/2004 20:08:55 2 Play 6.0 point Teaser: Wagered $xx.xx to win $xx.xx
Lost Teaser Wager
F 25 9/26 TAMPA BAY AT OAKLAND TAMPA BAY +3.0 (+6.0) (L)
F 25 9/26 TAMPA BAY AT OAKLAND UNDER 35.0 (+6.0) (L)

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Shameful post I know...

Lines will be up tomorrow and all will be right with the world (Promise Tom).

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting ESPN Night Game

Sorry for the delay, my Gentoo (Linux for you non-geeks) box needed a massive update that took a good deal of the night. Just Couldn't bare to go to a windows machine.

Early Games

Now on to the good stuff.


The Buffalo Bills (3-5) at The New England Patriots (7-1)
Against the Spread: Bills 5-3-0 | Patriots 5-1-2
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7.5 -105 Over/Under 37.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -8 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7 –103 to -110
Over/Under 37.5u -110

The former Pats' quarterback meets up again with his old teammates tonight in what should be a decent game. I said Should, because it is, after all, Drew Bledsoe at the helm, and the last time they met the Patriots took them on their own turf by 14 points.

RT Mike Williams is more than likely going to ride the bench tonight nursing what appears to be a sprained neck. This is going to make Bledsoe's job even tougher as he likes to roll out (when he does) in that direction. You can count on focus being made to bring the pressure from the right side by the Patriots.

Buffalo has one of the best defenses in the NFL and one that is very well rounded being 4th against the rush and 3rd against the pass. They are hardnosed in the red-zone which means that Dillon better be on his game tonight. But, they have primarily played low scoring teams, and they lost to Oakland. That speaks volumes. Heck they let Baltimore post 20 against them. Bottom line, the best team they have played to date (other than the Pats') is the Jets. They lost a close one and won a close one. The Patriots are in a whole other class.

Speaking of New England, their play last week sans CB Ty Law didn't seem to have as much of an adverse reaction as one would have thought. And it's not like they were playing a ground and pound team. Come on folks, it was Marts and his air assault. The Patriots did a fine job of keeping Bruce, Holt and crew at bay for a good portion of the game.

One thing that should worry folks is the fact that CB Asante Samuel will most probably be starting opposite undrafted rookie Randall Gray. This will only be Grays second start, so his impact really has yet to be proven.

All things being equally though, The New England Patriots are just a far superior team. They needed to get that loss off their shoulders. Now that it's gone so is a lot of the pressure. That means they can go back to playing the kind of ball that we have at least grown to respect if not enjoy.

My Online Betting Action: The Patriots -7 -110.
My Possible Online Betting Action: The Over 37.5 -105.

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 10 My Picks of the Week

After last weeks debacle hesitation in gambling this week is an understatement.

For those online poker fans, found a poker room on my favorite online sportsbook. The software rocks, just a shame that there are too few players.

Have to go to Party Poker for the real fish. Which, mind you, is where a good deal of Monday & Tuesday evening was spent trying to re-coup losses from the weekend.

But there are a couple of games that I like and will be putting a little action on.

BTW, I don't know that it is worth bothering with the long match-up analysis. If anyone wants me to go back to that format please speak up now. Otherwise this will be the format until the Play-Offs.

On to the good stuff:


The Baltimore Ravens (5-3) at The N.Y. Jets (6-2)
Against the Spread: Ravens 6-2-0 | Jets 4-3-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Ravens -1.5 -112 Over/Under 33u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Ravens -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Ravens -0 -105 to –110
Over/Under 33.5u to 34u -110

The Jets loss of Quarterback Chad Pennington is going to sting. Although Edwards has settled into a run first throw second mentality, it has been the ability of Pennington and his receivers to take advantage of 2nd and short to take shots down the field. His replacement, Quincy Carter (the guy did throw for 17 tds last year), has like abilities as he showed in Dallas. The big question is whether or not Herm let's him use those abilities or not.

Going on the assumption that it is going to be the Curtis Martin-Lamar Jordan Show, tells me that its' going to be all about clock consumption. A sub 30 point game is not out of the question.

But there is a catch... suppose for a moment the coach Edwards says to himself “Hmm... I've got a QB that has not started with us which means defenses are not going to be quite as prepared as they would against Chad” now this is mere conjecture, but not entirely without merit. There is also the fact the Carter (rushed for 257 yards and 2 tds) is more mobile than Pennington only adding to the problems the Baltimore's defense has to prepare for.

Moving on to the Ravens, they have looked rather lackluster defensively the last several games. The King Lewis is not inspiring his players like in days of old (does this have anything to do with Sanders?). Sure they are still allowing the fewest points but this has been primarily against rushing offenses. And not rushing offenses of the caliber that the Jets bring to the table (not counting Pitts' since their numbers have been much bolstered by there last two outings). The only team that has really put that ranking to task was KC and they ran roughshod over them (178 yards rushing). Now they are going to have to face off against the number 3 rusher in the league in Curtis Martin, who doesn't fumble and can catch.

Brian of The NY Jets posed a very intriguing question about the under in this match-up.

The trends are pointing to the under and if you can get it at about 34-34.5 it's not without merit. I would stay away from the 33.5, the .5 could be the difference between a loss and a push in this game.

Personally, despite the loss of Pennington, I like the Jets as a Pick-Em/+1.

My Online Betting Action: The Jets +1 -105.
My Possible Online Betting Action: The Under 34.5.


The Kansas City Chiefs (3-5) at The New Orleans Saints (3-5)
Against the Spread: Chiefs 3-5-0 | Saints 2-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -4.5 -115 Over/Under 58u +105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -127
Over/Under 56.5u to 57u -110

Not much to say really. The Chiefs are probably going to have to go this one without RB Priest Holmes and his partner in crime Derrick Blaylock, although probable, is still bothered by his thigh injury. Never mind the fact that he was used basically used as a blocking back and to give Priest a rest.

Kansas City has proven that they REALLY are without a defense (realizing that this column has been touting improvement in that area) and will not have changed much when they go onto the field of battle Sunday. Trent Green, on the other hand, will be facing one of the worst pass defenders in the NFL.

That being said they are playing the Saints. The Saints Suck. They are inept in every aspect of the game, from coaching to playing. They can't score with any consistency, they turn the ball over at times as if they were playing “hot potato”. They have a running back that can't get his wits about him when trying to find the gap. Their front four is sub-par, and that's being generous.

The Saints Aint in nearly every category. 30th against the rush, 31st against the pass. Offensively they are 26 rush and 15th pass. More importantly though, the give up 29 points a game (worst in the NFL) against an offense that scores 29, and the Saints only manage about 21 points against a defense that allows just over 26. This doesn't make a 4.5 point spread. The number is slanted because of the missing Priest Holmes.

Small wager but:

My Online Betting Action: The Chiefs -3 -110.
My possible Online Betting Action: The Under 57u -110

The Pittsburgh Steelers (7-1) at The Cleveland Browns (3-5)
Against the Spread: Steelers 6-2-0 | Browns 4-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Steelers -3.5 -111 Over/Under 41.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4.5 -110 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -3.5 -102 to -110
Over/Under 42u -103 to -110

Steelers with Rookie phenom Ben Roethlisberger behind center has finally made this gambler a believer. Having unseated the last two remaining undefeated teams and doing it with ease and with big numbers has proven it. The Browns are going to be a let-down by comparison.

Not going to bother with a bunch of crud about Cleveland, yeah they are playing at home. No Garcia is not the answer. Yeah, they have something of a run defense and no they can't stop the pass.

My Online Betting Action: The Steelers -3.5 -105.


The Seattle Seahawks (5-3) at The St. Louis Rams (4-4)
Against the Spread: Seahawks 4-4-0 | Rams 2-5-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Rams -0 -100 Over/Under 50u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Rams -1 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Rams -0 -100 to -110
Over/Under 50u -110

Rams are good at home, Seattle is bad on the road. Not much more to say.

Seattle has a good running game but the dropped balls in their passing attack is killing them.

Rams have a goodgreat passing game, especially on the turf. In addition they have a more than adequate running game.

The numbers defy this pick so I'm not even going to bother as they will make me look foolish, but I like St. Louis at home in this match-up. It comes purely from watching a lot of ball and knowing how these two teams handle the speed of turf. One does it well, the other doesn't.

Not one I would recommend, just one that I will be betting.

Two Ways:

My Online Betting Action: The Rams -0 -110.
My Online Betting Action: The Over 50o -110.


The Minnesota Vikings (5-3) at The Green Bay Packers (4-4)
Against the Spread: Vikings 5-3-0 | Packers 4-4-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -4 -108 Over/Under 49.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -4.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line Packers -4 -108 to -110
Over/Under 49.5u to 50u -110

The Vikings are once again going to be without receiver Randy Moss and it became evident just how much of an impact that has to their offense. Couple that with the fact their most productive running back, Mewelede Moore, will probably not start and you have a “less than” offense that won't be playing the non-existent defense that they had against the Colts last week. Don't look for any last minute miracles from the offense this week.

Green Bay is coming off a bye that has actually been of benefit. They are going to get some key players back on both sides of the ball most notably tackle Grady Jackson and Cletidus Hunt. But they are also looking to see action from guard Marco Rivera, and probably safety Darren Sharper.

Having two big wins just prior to isn't going to hurt things a bit.

My Online Betting Action: The Packers -4 -110.

Still pondering the ESPN Night game and The Monday Night Football games...

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Betting Lines Week 10

The Baltimore Ravens (5-3) at The N.Y. Jets (6-2)
Against the Spread: Ravens 6-2-0 | Jets 4-3-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Ravens -1.5 -112 Over/Under 33u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Ravens -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Ravens -0 –110
Over/Under 33.5u to 34u -110


The Chicago Bears (3-5) at The Tennessee Titans (3-5)
Against the Spread: Bears 4-4-0 | Titans 3-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
OTB


The Detroit Lions (4-4) at The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-3)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-4-0 | Jaguars 5-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jaguars -3 -119 Over/Under 34.5u +101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jaguars -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jaguars -3 -120
Over/Under 34.5u -110 to +101


The Houston Texans (4-4) at The Indianapolis Colts (5-3)
Against the Spread: Texans 4-4-0 | Colts 4-3-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -9 -101 Over/Under 53u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -10 +105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -9 -110
Over/Under 53.5u to 54u -110


The Kansas City Chiefs (3-5) at The New Orleans Saints (3-5)
Against the Spread: Chiefs 3-5-0 | Saints 2-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -4.5 -115 Over/Under 58u +105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -4.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -4 -101
Over/Under 57.5u to 58u -110


The Pittsburgh Steelers (7-1) at The Cleveland Browns (3-5)
Against the Spread: Steelers 6-2-0 | Browns 4-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Steelers -3.5 -111 Over/Under 41.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -4.5 -110 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -3.5 -110
Over/Under 42u -110


The Seattle Seahawks (5-3) at The St. Louis Rams (4-4)
Against the Spread: Seahawks 4-4-0 | Rams 2-5-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Rams -0 -100 Over/Under 50u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Rams -1 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Rams -0 -100 to -110
Over/Under 50u -110


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-5) at The Atlanta Falcons (6-2)
Against the Spread: Buccaneers 3-3-2 | Falcons 3-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Falcons -3.5 -112 Over/Under 40.5u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Falcons -4 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Falcons -3.5 -110 to -115
Over/Under 40.5u -110


The Cincinnati Bengals (3-5) at The Washington Redskins (3-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 2-6-0 | Redskins 3-5-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Redskins -3 -128 Over/Under 37u +104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Redskins -4 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Redskins -3 -125 to -130
Over/Under 37u -110


The Carolina Panthers (1-7) at The San Fransisco 49ers (1-7)
Against the Spread: Panthers 3-5-0 | 49ers 4-4-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: 49ers -0 -100 Over/Under 41u -118
Current High NFL Betting Line: 49ers -1 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: 49ers -0 -100
Over/Under 41u to 42 -110 to -118


The Minnesota Vikings (5-3) at The Green Bay Packers (4-4)
Against the Spread: Vikings 5-3-0 | Packers 4-4-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -4 -108 Over/Under 49.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -4.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line Packers -4 -108 to -110
Over/Under 49.5u to 50u -110


The N.Y. Giants (5-3) at The Arizona Cardinals (3-5)
Against the Spread: Giants 5-3-0 | Cardinals 5-3-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Giants -2 -104 Over/Under 38u -113
Current High NFL Betting Line: Giants -3 –110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Giants -2 -106 to -110
Over/Under 38u to 38.5u -110


The Buffalo Bills (3-5) at The New England Patriots (7-1)
Against the Spread: Bills 5-3-0 | Patriots 5-1-2
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7.5 -105 Over/Under 37.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -9 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7.5 –102 to -110
Over/Under 37.5u -110


The Philadelphia Eagles (7-1) at The Dallas Cowboys (3-5)
Against the Spread: Eagles 5-2-0 | Cowboys 3-5-0
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -6.5 -112 Over/Under 42u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -110 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -6.5 -100 to -115
Over/Under 42u -110

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread Week 10

So what exactly happened early Sunday? Did the football Gods decide that the salary cap and all that it brings just wasn't fun anymore?

Maybe Vince Lombardi decided that enough was enough, time to teach these owners a lesson. You know the lesson... Parity Sucks!

--Rant On

Is it just me, or are there others out there that miss having teams you could count on to win, teams you could count on to lose, and those in the middle that were the “spoilers”.

Back in the day, when going to the local casino to lay a bet on something was about as common as going to McDonald's, by week 5 or 6 you knew what were correct lines (give or take). If you followed the game astutely going 54%-56% was not that tall an order. The 60%+ mark was what everyone was aiming at. Those were the Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal numbers.

Last year, it took until week 8 to begin to get a handle on what were good lines and what were purely “public perception” lines. This year looks like it is going to be play-offs before we reach that point.

Are the bookies really privy to information that the average Joe, no matter how diligent, can never hope to find? Or did the Sportsbooks just get really frigging lucky this week. Maybe they didn't, maybe they got killed by money line bets on the dogs that won. Chicago was +330 on the money line!

There is the running belief that there are a few (Over/Under at 10) extremely high rollers that cause the pendulum swing that is the line change. Even taking that as fact, the lines didn't change that drastically from their opening to closing. Even if they had, it wouldn't have made any difference to many of the games because the favored team lost.

Let's take a closer look at what occurred this past Sunday:

Miami Dolphins -3.5 at home – Failed to cover, lost to the Arizona Cardinals
Dallas Cowboys -1 – Failed to cover, lost to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Kansas City Chiefs -3 – Failed to cover, lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
N.Y. Jets -3 – Failed to cover, lost to the Buffalo Bills.
Carolina Panthers -7 at home – Failed to cover, lost to the Oakland Raiders.
Philadelphia Eagles -1 – Failed to cover, lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Detroit Lions -3.5 at home – Failed to cover, lost to the Washington Redskins.
N.Y. Giants -9 at home – Failed to cover, lost to the Chicago Bears.
Indianapolis Colts -7 at home – Failed to cover.

So in nine of the fourteen games played this past week only five favorites covered the spread, counting the Eagles and Cowboys since the books were split about 50/50 between pick-em and -1. As if that weren't bad enough, 8 of the 9 lost outright.

These were not all tight games either, -3 or less. Take the Panthers or Giants games, both were favored by a touchdown or better at home and they didn't just fail to cover, they LOST!

In any event, every contrarian who also takes part in online (or b&m) sports handicapping had a fantastic weekend.

--Rant Off

This weeks opening lines (for whatever they are worth) will be up shortly.

Thanks for stopping by my little blip on the blog radar...

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Monday Night Football

The Minnesota Vikings (1-6) at The Indianapolis Colts (5-1)
Against the Spread: Vikings 2-5-0 | Colts 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Off The Board (OTB) at most Online Sportsbooks
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -7.5 –110 to -115
Over/Under 57.5u to 58.5u -110


UGH! So P.O.'ed that I could hardly stand to watch Football after the early games let alone write about the useless game last night. There is a ton to be said about yesterdays games, except that the mere thought has this dim-witted blogger seeing red.

Every dog has his day... but did it have to happen all at once. Every dog in the early games not only covered, but won outright. Me ha molestado!

Nothing on tonights game.

Taking the over is at 58 is too high, but expecting it to stay under 58 is no safer bet.

Payton Manning and the Colts can score at will. The problem is the 7.5 points or so that you have to lay off. They have a defense that couldn't stop most High School offenses. So Taking the Colts is out.

Expecting a different result from the Moss depleted offense of Minnesota than last week is shear insanity (hard learned lesson last week). So even getting 8.5 points doesn't make this gambler any more comfortable.

Here's one, 2 team teaser Colts -1.5 Over 52.5. If you believe that one, there's a bridge over the Mojave that's for sale...


I promise, my loyal readers reader, that decent content is forthcoming. Until then enjoy tonights "whatever you wanna call it" and a little Anna K.

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 9

Quick version of this weekends wagering

The Kansas City Chiefs (3-4) at The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-5)
Against the Spread: Chiefs 3-4-0 | Buccaneers 2-3-2
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -114 Over/Under 44u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -100 to -105
Over/Under 44.5u -110

The Chiefs have allowed a ton of points and have not faced off against an opponent with a defense like that of the Buccaneers. They have an inferior defense, but it is one that is improving, albeit slowly.

Kansas City comes in with the number 1 rushing game and the 9th passing attack. Quarterback Trent Green is once again starting to set himself apart as a premier passer. Primarily by keeping his wits about him, showing good ball control and being a leader. Running back Priest Holmes is doing what he does best, everything. He is laying the foundation that allows the passing game to get off the ground (no pun intended).

This has helped in a couple of areas. Scoring, obviously. But a little less obvious is that they are giving the defense a chance to rest which means they are just a little fresher at the end of the game (compared to weeks 1-5).

I know that the sheets show a good defense in the Buccaneers, but that stat is bolstered by the passing D (1st), and that will only take them so far. Heck they gave up 30 points to OAKLAND!

They have running back Michael Pittman, wide-out Michael Clayton, and quarterback Brian Griese. That's it. I'm done naming play-makers for the Bucs' offense. Honestly speaking, throwing Pittman and Griese in there is based purely on their play the last two games. They had receiver Charles Lee but his effectiveness ended in St. Louis, and he is a listed as questionable for Sunday.

"Some people say that we're struggling, but I still think we have a legitimate team"
Joe Jurevicius

Tampa Bay might have a lot of heart, just not a lot of stuff on the field. They could be getting receivers Joe Jurevicius and Joey Galloway back, but even assuming starts from both of them, they have been out for the last six games. One has to question how much of an impact they will make.

This means that the defense is going to be spending a good deal of time on the field. Couple that with the fact that they are not very good against the rush (21st), they are going to have a tough time containing Kansas City's offense.

My Online Betting Action: The Chiefs -3.


The New York Jets (6-1) at The Buffalo Bills (2-5)
Against the Spread: Jets 4-2-1 | Bills 4-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -3 -122 Over/Under 36u -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -3.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -3 -100 to -115
Over/Under 36.5u -110

The Jets are getting fired up, finally! Touting quarterback Chad Pennington's abilities has been tough this year, seeing as he has not thrown all that much. Last week was a sort of “coming out” party for him. He threw 3 touchdowns and had about 200 yards on 12 or so passing attempts. No, these are not jump out at you numbers, but they are better than what they have been and averaging 10yds a pass ain't bad. Particularly considering those yards and touchdowns had to be taken away from the number 2 passing defense in Miami's Patrick Surtain and Sam Madison.

Running back Curtis Martin and LaMont Jordan combined for over 200 yards rushing. This was against a pretty weak rushing defense, so you can't read too much into that. But the play making of receivers Justin McCareins, Wayne Chrebet and Santana Moss you can read a lot into.

Buffalo may not have Surtain or Madison, but they do have a more well rounded defense than that of Miami. At 4th and 5th against the rush and pass, respectively, they are going to be a tougher opponent than the Dolphins where.

Here again though, defense only gets you part way there. You have to be able to do something other than punt or turnover the ball when you have it on offense. The Bills, more to the point QB Drew “our offense needs to get better” Bledsoe, have not done much but that. They did score 38 points last week... against the Cardinals.

Willis McGahee and the Bills flexed their muscles against the Cardinals.

Hope they enjoyed that game, because there is little doubt that they are going to be looking a bit different after this Sundays.

This line has me scratching my head, much the same as the Chiefs +1.5 line did last week. It has to be the fact that when they met in week 5 the Jets only beat them by 2. The Jets have come a long way since week 5, Buffalo hasn't.

My Online Betting Action: The Jets -3.


The Philadelphia Eagles (7-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-1)
Against the Spread: Eagles 5-2-0 | Steelers 5-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -1 -103 Over/Under 44u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -0 -110
Over/Under 44u to 44.5u -110 to -112

Not really going to say a bunch about this game. The Eagles are what the Eagles are. Pittsburgh is what Pittsburgh is. The only question is “Who's better?”.

The answer could be in any number of forms. Philadelphia's golden child, Terrell Owens, has taken the front seat in the press for Reid and McNabb. They can relax now. He has come up big every game so far, with no reason to see an end to it.

The Eagles defense is one that is best described as bend but don't break. They let you get yards, they just don't let you score much. By contrast, no one has kept them from scoring. Their worst showing was last week against the Ravens. TO only got in once. The “bend but don't break” defense was exactly that, they gave up 327 yards but only 10 points. They are the second least scored on team in the NFL, and would be the least if it were not for the aberration that was the Phili-Cleveland match-up.

Pittsburgh's new ace in the hole, running back Duce Staley, has taken some of the kids off the Bus, allowing Jerome Bettis to age with grace. He has also helped establish enough ground game to let young gunner Ben Roethlisberger (typing that name is like being caught in Chinese finger cuffs) get into the mix and find his receivers, Plaxico Burress and Hines Ward in the open field.

Added to that for the Steelers is a solid defense that is playing healthy (relatively speaking, of course) and an offensive line that's standing up pretty well. Roethlisberger has only been sacked a handful of times, and they soften up the middle of defenses early by their hard nosed blocking and punch and run ground game. This does the obvious and already stated for the passing game.

Now that that's done, what's the bottom line?

The Eagles have that intangible something that wills them to victories even when things are not running as smooth as they would like. The Cleveland and Baltimore games are prime examples. So once again...

Tough game, Yes. Eagles first loss, No.

My Online Betting Action: The Eagles -0.


The New Orleans Saints (3-4) at The San Diego Chargers (5-3)
Against the Spread: Saints 2-5-0 | Chargers 6-1-1
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -103 Over/Under 49 -102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 49u -102 to -110

The New Orleans Saints walk into this game an undaunted nothing. Calling them undaunted nothings has a point, they don't get fired up about anything, winning losing, it doesn't matter. Consistently they never show any signs of emotion at all. To call them lethargic would be an insult to the Sloth.

They are arguably the worst coached team in the league. The talent that they do have goes under managed at best and at worst left to it's own devices.

Enough said, they stink.

San Diego is moving with a full head of steam. Quarterback Drew Brees is having the year that was expected of him... three years ago. He's getting solid support from his O line and running back LaDainian Tomlinson is the driving force behind that. Brees has found the love of his heart (at least on the grid iron) in tight end Antonio Gates. They've hooked 49 times for 550 yards and 5 tds.

Fact of the matter is, the running game is doing such A fine job that it's been the Tight End Show when the Chargers come to town. The RB's get them in striking distance, then Brees gets a shot at the endzone before they put it back on the ground. When they are in those first and ten from the 15-25 mark he's looking up the tight end. Their paying him off. Of the 11 touchdowns scored through the air the tight ends count for 7 of them (Justin Peelle has 2).

By the way, Tomlinson and fellow back Jesse chatman have been upgraded to probable, with Chatman peddling his way back and Tomlinson seeing some practice time on Friday.

My Online Betting Action: The Chargers -6.


The Seattle Seahawks (4-3) at The San Fransisco 49ers (1-6)
Against the Spread: Seahawks 3-4-0 | 49ers 4-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7 -114 Over/Under 39.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -6.5 -110
Over/Under 40.5u to 41u -110

Just when it looked like the Seahawks were going to cover, they go and let Carolina get a deep shot at the 2 minute warning. So those who had action on this game, like me, go to watch a loss, turn into a win, and right back into a loss again. All within an agonizing thirteen minutes and thirty-two seconds, the last two minutes and four seconds being the most painful of all.

And yet my action is once again with the Seahawks. They are playing the 49ers and it's not a double digit spread. How can you not bet this game?

Couple of quick key notes on the Seahawks; WR Darrell Jackson will be a game-time decision, and Bobby Engram is doubtful. This means that Koren Robinson is going to have his number called a lot. It also means that if Jerry Rice can manage it, he will get the nod to start against is old team.

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is going to face a softer passing D in the 49ers than he did last week. With running back Shaun Alexander setting a nice pace for the offense against a less than rushing D, Hasselbeck should be able to get into rhythm and find success when he needs to.

San Fransisco will most likely see Tim Rattay back at the helm. That helps everyone who has him on their Fantasy Football squad, but it doesn't mean a whole lot to the 49ers.

Running back Kevin Barlow has been a bust as a starter. Wide receivers Cedrick Wilson and Brandon Lloyd have barely made a mark. If it were not for tight end Eric Johnson they would not have the tenth ranked passing game, as he accounts for almost a third of their total passing yards.

Injuries have plagued them at key areas and they are penniless to do anything about it. The 49ers are caught between a rock and a hard place, they keep losing players and have no money to get replacements.

They have been relegated to getting only the bottom of the barrel because they are paying for key players on someone else's team. Personally, this doesn't bother me, as my distaste for the 49ers is long and deep.

Anyway, no reason to bore you with more rambling.

49ers = loser
Seahawks = winner

My Online Betting Action: The Seahawks -6.


The Houston Texans (4-3) at The Denver Broncos (5-3)
Against the Spread: Texans 4-3-0 | Broncos 2-4-2
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -108 Over/Under 41.5u -102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -8 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line Broncos -7 -103
Over/Under 41.5u to 42u -103 to -110

The Houston Texans have been the surprise of the NFL this season. Quarterback David Carr has numbers that put him up there with the likes of Donovan McNabb, Peyton Manning and Dante Culpepper. He consistently throws for 250 yards, and knows how to spread the ball around. Although Houston has lacked a single star in the running back position the tandem of Jonathan Wells and Domanick Davis has been adequate.

What has really shined for the Texans offensively, has been the big plays from wide receiver Andre Johnson and the way that Carr finds the open guy in the endzone, no matter what his number is.

On the other side of the ball they are tied for first in the interceptions category with 11 and lead the league in passes deflected 52. That might be a little ridiculous sounding but it's leading to the fact that the Texans defense has matured. It has matured to the point that it held the Jaguars to very meager numbers and out of the endzone entirely.

Denver has blown two gimmes in a row, to two of the worst offenses/defenses in the NFL. The Cincinnati Bengals and the Atlanta Falcons. They have had little to no help from quarterback Jake Plummer who has had as many interceptions as touchdowns in the last couple of outings. Running back Reuben Droughns, who looked like he was going to pick up where the Q left off was kept darned near stationary last week. As an added bonus he coughed the ball up once in each.

The Broncos defense looked down right terrible last week, laying a hand on Vick only few times and topping it off by getting a defensive holding call the one time they did sack him. They allowed almost 200 yards on the ground to Atlanta and 133 yards to the Bengals (Bengals only average 100 a game).

Kicking a guy when he's down is not what this is about. The fact is, Denver has looked like a 3-5 team not a 5-3 team. Where as Houston has played above their 4-3 standing.

The Texans know they have a real shot at the AFC South. A win in Denver could be the very thing that ignites the fuse for the rocket that sends them into post season play.

My Online Betting Action: The Texans -7.

Sorry to the few that may have been looking for this to be up lastnight. Blogger was struggling and I couldn't get into edit posts once I started. I will put the rest up as I write them...Thanks for dropping by!

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 9

First things first, thanks for dropping by!

Just a quick round up of games that I will have action on this weekend. A more in-depth look at these match-ups will be polished and posted tomorrow.

Chiefs vs. Buccaneers
Chiefs -3

Chiefs are on a roll offensively and are improving defensively, the trip to Tampa shouldn't hinder this. My action is already on the Chiefs

Jets vs. Bills
Jets -3

Jets showed significant improvement last week against a formidable passing defense in the Dolphins. Look for more production from the receivers against a weaker corner package and continued success on the ground. Remember, Miami had really good stats against the rush before they played the Jets as well.

Eagles vs. Steelers
Eagles -0

Steelers are going to be the Eagles toughest opponent to date. That being said, the Eagles as a pick-em is a no brainer. Tight game, probably. Eagles first loss, not likely.

Saints vs. Chargers
Chargers -6.5

The Saints are terrible against the spread, are streaky in general (being polite about it) and are coming off a bye. San Diego is playing good football, injuries to running backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Jesse Chatman not withstanding, another good outing is on the horizon for the Chargers at home.

Seahawks vs. 49ers
Seahawks -7

Seattle got some momentum going against Carolina last week. Although they did fail to cover. They are desperate for a big win and San Fransisco is a good looking place for exactly that. The 49ers gave up 34 points to the Seahawks when they met up at Qwest Field, it's not going to be any prettier in the Bay. San Fransisco may not get shut-out but they could very easily lose by 12-14 points.


Texans vs. Broncos
Texans +7

The Broncos lackluster offense and underachieving defense has drop two games in a row that they should have won, this trend won't continue. The Texans have played over and above what was expected of them this season. Houston will probably see somewhat of a “Bubble Bursting” when they head to Mile High (ok, Invesco) Stadium. All the same, they will stay in the game for four quarters and it ends within 3 points or so. No money line bet this week, take the points.

Browns vs. Ravens
Under 35.5

Ravens post about 18 points a game, Browns right at 21. Baltimore has the fewest points allowed, 14 and the Browns are just a notch below that mark at 17. Baltimore has a good rushing game whereas Cleveland has a porous rushing defense. Baltimore keeps the game on the ground and for good reason. The Ravens have the worst passing game in town, while Cleveland has no game whatsoever. Time clock eating runs and a lot of punting will take place. Not sure if this game is worth action or not yet. If it is, it's in the Under.

NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Betting Lines Week 9

So far this year we have seen the Boston Red Sox make history in two ways, being the first MLB team to come from an 0-3 deficit in a series and win, beating the Yankees to take the ALCS. They furthered that by breaking an 86 year old curse by winning the World Series.
Now the Washington Redskins and the Presidential incumbency spell has been broken.
Redskins lost, Bush won. So much for sports superstitions/curses?!

Two injuries worth taking note of:
Patriots CB, Ty Law, Out for 4-6 weeks (foot).
Jaguars QB, Byron Leftwich, Out (there is rumor of a Nov. 14th return) 4-6 weeks (knee).

Anyway, moving on to the NFL betting lines and ATS (against the spread) standings...


The Arizona Cardinals (2-5) at The Miami Dolphins (1-7)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-3-0 | Miami 2-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Miami -3 -115 Over/Under 34.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Miami -4 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Miami -3 –120 to -125
Over/Under 34.5u -110

The Dallas Cowboys (3-4) at The Cincinnati Bengals (2-5)
Against the Spread: Cowboys 3-4-0 | Bengals 1-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Cowboys -1 -107 Over/Under 43.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Cowboys -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Cowboys -0 -110
Over/Under 43.5u to 44u -110

The Kansas City Chiefs (3-4) at The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-5)
Against the Spread: Chiefs 3-4-0 | Buccaneers 2-3-2
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -114 Over/Under 44u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -100
Over/Under 44u to 44.5u -110

The New York Jets (6-1) at The Buffalo Bills (2-5)
Against the Spread: Jets 4-2-1 | Bills 4-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -3 -122 Over/Under 36u -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -3 -100 to -115
Over/Under 36.5u -110

The Oakland Raiders (2-6) at The Carolina Panthers (1-6)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-6-0 | Panthers 3-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Panthers -7 -100 Over/Under 41.5u -101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Panthers -8 -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Panthers -6.5 -110
Over/Under 41.5u –100 to -110

The Philadelphia Eagles (7-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-1)
Against the Spread: Eagles 5-2-0 | Steelers 5-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -1 -103 Over/Under 44u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -0 -110
Over/Under 44u to 44.5u -110 to -112

The Washington Redskins (2-5) at The Detroit Lions (4-3)
Against the Spread: Redskins 2-5-0 | Lions 4-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Lions -3.5 -100 Over/Under 37.5u -101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Lions -4 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Lions -2 -125
Over/Under 37.5u -110

The Chicago Bears (2-5) at The New York Giants (5-2)
Against the Spread: Bears 3-4-0 | Giants 5-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Giants -9 -102 Over/Under 35u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Giants -10 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Giants -9 -102 to -115
Over/Under 35u to 36u -104 to -110

The New Orleans Saints (3-4) at The San Diego Chargers (5-3)
Against the Spread: Saints 2-5-0 | Chargers 6-1-1
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -103 Over/Under 49 -102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6 -110
Over/Under 48.5u to 49u -102 to -110

The Seattle Seahawks (4-3) at The San Fransisco 49ers (1-6)
Against the Spread: Seahawks 3-4-0 | 49ers 4-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7 -114 Over/Under 39.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7 -103 to -110
Over/Under 39.5u -110

The Houston Texans (4-3) at The Denver Broncos (5-3)
Against the Spread: Texans 4-3-0 | Broncos 2-4-2
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -108 Over/Under 41.5u -102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line Broncos -6 -115
Over/Under 41.5u to 42u -106 to -110

The New England Patriots (6-1) at The St. Louis Rams (4-3)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-1-2 | Rams 2-4-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -2.5 -110 Over/Under 48.5u +103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 –110 to -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -2.5 -100 to -110
Over/Under 48u to 48.5u +103 to -110

The Cleveland Browns (3-4) at The Baltimore Ravens (4-3)
Against the Spread: Browns 4-3-0 | Ravens 5-2-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Ravens -6 -104 Over/Under 35u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Ravens -7 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Ravens -6 –104 to -115
Over/Under 35u to 35.5u -104 to -110

The Minnesota Vikings (1-6) at The Indianapolis Colts (5-1)
Against the Spread: Vikings 2-5-0 | Colts 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Off The Board (OTB) at most Online Sportsbooks
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -7 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -6 –110 to -115
Over/Under 58u to 59.5u -110
This game is still OTB at a good number of Online Sportsbooks.