NFL Against the Spread – Online Betting Super Bowl Lines


The New England Patriots (16-2) versus The Philadelphia Eagles (15-3)
Against the Spread:  Patriots 13-3-2 | Eagles 11-7-0
Game Time: 6:30 PM ET
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -7 -103 to -120
Over/Under 47.5u to 48u -105 to -115

Everyone has said since before the Patriots V Steelers game, that the winner would be the next NFL Champions. But, it seems that the Eagles are not listening, and to some degree are relishing the fact that they are the underdogs. Defeats in 2002 against Tampa and again last year against the Panthers has not become a black cloud. For whatever reason, it was these losses that allowed them to play a confident, loose game against the Falcons. They have become hardened, not haunted.

The Eagles are looking to become the first Champions in over 20 years for the City of Philadelphia and the first NFL Championship ever.

The Patriots, and more to the point head coach Bill Belichick, are going at this game with the same “they're going to be a tough team to beat” attitude that has been with them all year. In reality, the Patriots have made almost every opponent look very beatable. Take a look at their ATS, that speaks volumes.

The Patriots have all the right stuff this season and have made the most of it. Great coaching, a solid running game and players that have stepped up when needed. Despite the numerous injuries and non-stop speculation and rumor about their inability to stop the passing game, they ended the regular season with good numbers. Since then they have bolstered that with an impressive 7/0 takeaway/giveaway ratio in post-season play, five via interception.

Will another Ring qualify them for Dynasty status?

No action yet, waiting a bit to see if the Pats' can be had for under a touchdown.

Now, because I can:

Anna Loves NFL Online Betting

NFL Against the Spread – Online Betting AFC NFC Title Games

AFC Title Game

NFC Title Game

The New England Patriots (15-2) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (16-1)
Against the Spread:  Falcons 8-8-1 | Eagles 10-5-1
Game Time: 6:00 PM ET
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 EVEN
Over/Under 34.5u -105 to -113

The Patriots seem to be to Peyton Manning and the Colts, what Florida was to him in his college days with the Vols. He just can't beat them. Manning didn't make the big mistakes that he did in their last post-season meeting, and the Pat's secondary didn't mug the receivers as was the case a year ago. Yet the outcome was still the same. Manning was kept from throwing a touchdown, and was never able to get into his “zone”.

Despite having a very depleted pass cover squad the Patriots stood their ground against, arguably, the best receiving corp in the NFL today. Even with names like Tyrone Poole, Ty Law and Richard Seymour on the sidelines, the defense was able to hold the extremely explosive Colts offense to very ordinary numbers.

When New England did have the ball, they kept it. Using the powerful legs of RB Corey Dillon to continuously pound on the Colts D line. Then when things were good for it a quick slant, play action or screen had Indy's secondary wondering what was going on. With QB Tom Brady hitting 10 different guys with passes, it was little wonder why. When all was said and done the Pats' had 200+ yards on the ground, 140+ in the air and maintained control of the ball for nearly 40 minutes of play.

The Steelers win was not nearly as impressive. QB Ben Roethlisberger struggled yet again against the Jets. He was 17-30 for about 180 yards, got picked twice and if it wasn't for the RB Jerome Bettis' superb effort and the outstanding job of the defensive squad, Big Ben would have gotten his first loss.

The Pittsburgh D did do an outstanding job and Bettis did have another superb game and the end result was another win for Roethlisberger and the Steelers. Pittsburgh gained almost 200 yards on the ground and kept the ball better than half the game. This enabled the D to stay somewhat fresh and keep them out of harms way in OT. The 1-10 holding penalty against Becht didn't help the Jets cause any.

But did the Steelers win this game or did the Jets lose it? From the sidline perspective it seemed the latter was more true than the former. An interception returned for a touchdown by SS Troy Polamalu gave the Steelers an early 10-0 lead.
The Jets D did their job late, rattling Roethlisberger, and getting an interception with just 1:58 left in regulation. Then, with the game knotted up at 17 each, K Doug Brien missed two field goal attempts (47 and 43 yards), the second set up by that INT, that could have ended the day for the Steelers.

The key here was the fact that Big Ben showed his rookie side again. He was pressured and made mistakes that could/should have cost Pittsburgh the win. That happens against a team with the skill level of the Patriots and it could be the end of the road for the Steelers.

It is without saying that the Patriots have the advantage going into this game. They have been here before and know what the deal is. They have a running game that they have not had in the past, and that is proving to be an outstanding asset to them. Tom Brady may not be the best QB out there, but he is level headed and for the most part, makes good on field decisions. He has a fantastic receiving group to go to when he needs/wants to throw the ball, but with the addition of Dillon to the roster, is no longer in a situation where he has to rely on the passing game for drives to be sustained.

Romeo Crennel has done an incredible job of rebuilding a secondary that was as good as gone, and making them into something that is a bother to offenses. Bill Belichick's constant scheming always has opponents trying to second guess the defense, even when they don't come out with different looks.

All in all, it should be a tight game with two good D's on the field as well as good coaching on both sidelines. But in the end, the experience of the Patriots in conjunction with the talent that they have should give them the victory.

My Online Betting Action: The Patriots -3

NFL Against the Spread – Online Betting AFC NFC Title Games

First my sincerest apologies to my loyal readers reader for my disappearing act over the last 2 weeks. “Real Life” reared it's ugly, and rather obtuse, head leaving me with little to no extra time (not even for sleep). I actually missed action on last weekends games, something that I rarely do...

But, I have returned and further promise to never let it happen again. In an attempt to win back the hearts of those who have put up with my long winded ramblings all season, I will have a special, “Not Safe For Work” Anna pic posted following this match-up analysis. This will be one that I would not have shared but for my deplorable actions over the last couple of weeks.

Now on to the only reason you are still reading...

NFL NFC Title Game

The Atlanta Falcons (12-5) at The Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)
Against the Spread:  Falcons 8-8-1 | Eagles 10-5-1
Game Time: 3:00 PM ET
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -6 -107
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -4.5 -120
Over/Under 37u to 37.5u -105 to -116

Anyone who was concerned about there being a little rust on the Eagles wheels breathed a collective sigh of relief almost from the start of the Minnesota game. In what could only be described as methodical, the Eagles shut-down the scoring ability of the Vikings and used a well balanced offensive approach when it was their turn to carry the rock.

RB Brian Westbrook showed his versatlitly, rushing for 70 yards and receiving for another 47, including a touchdown. WR Greg Lewis stepped up when called into action, grabbing a 52 yards pass from McNabb that set up the 7 yard TD for Westbrook.

The Eagles defense stood tall with Jevon Kearse doing his thing at DE and Jeremiah Trotter his at MLB. Although it allowed 385 yards, it kept up the pressure and never let Daunte Culpepper get into a rhythm. They picked him twice and kept his star receivers from making many big plays, a 40 yard reception by Marcus Robinson was the deepest Culpepper was able to complete. Randy Moss, the biggest of those stars, was almost completely held in check, gaining only 51 yards on 3 grabs. The fact the Mike Tice was holding the clipboard didn't hurt the Eagles any either.



The Falcons put on a show for the home team crowd. Vick wowed them with a pair of TD passes and 100+ yard rushing game. RB Warrick Dunn ran for 113 yards and broke off a 62 yard blast to pay dirt.

But the real hero in that game was Allen Rossum, who finished the night with over 150 yards (152, NFL Playoff Record) on 3 punt returns including a 68 yarder for a touchdown.

Atlanta, as a whole, ended the night with a staggering 327 yards rushing. The flip side of that coin is that they only got about 70 yards total through the air. Keep in mind that they were playing against a tired and banged up St. Louis Rams squad that finished the season 8-8. Not exactly a stellar opponent by any stretch of the imagination.

Moving along...

The Eagles showed that they can win without Terrell Owens.

The Falcons showed that they are what they are.

The Eagles are good for a couple of reasons:

The Falcons are not a good passing team. If even moderately contained and forced to pass, Vick is as apt to throw the ball to his opposition as he is to own receivers.

The Eagles have a balanced offense and (despite a very questionable series at the end of the half) a good coaching staff that is aware of what it can and can't do.

Furthermore, the Phili D is tougher than the Atlanta D. The Falcons come with a lot of blitz packages, but then again they ended the season with just one more sack than the Eagles. Add into that a better offensive line and a more well rounded game and the Eagles have it in spades over Atlanta.


My Online Betting Action: The Eagles -5

As Promised:

Anna Checks for Scrambling Vicks

NFL Against the Spread – Online Betting Picks of the Week


The St. Louis Rams (9-8) at The Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
Against the Spread:  Rams 6-10-1 | Falcons 7-8-1
Game Time: 8:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Falcons -7 -103 Over/Under 48u -113
Current High NFL Betting Line: Falcons -7.5 +110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Falcons -7 -101 to -110
Over/Under 48u to 48.5u -103 to -110
The Rams bailed this gambler out of a losing weekend (I took them on the Money Line) and looked good doing it. Say what you want about Martz, but him and Bulger seem to have gotten a knack for this. Liking the Rams again, but nothing yet.

The Rams will be facing off against an Atlanta pass rush that saw 48 sacks in regular season. Match this with an offensive line that has allowed 41 sacks and QB Marc Bulger is looking at a long day. His saving grace could be the use of a more than decent ground package with RB's Marshall Faulk and Steven Jackson. But with Martz doing the play calling, who knows. If it ends up as a pass first run second scenario (as it has most of the season) then the Rams banged up O line is going to have a tough time keeping the Falcon's D at bay.

The Falcons have a record that just doesn't fit their team. They are a lot worse than their 11-5 standing would have you believe. If QB Michael Vick is not on the run they have little to no offense. Containing him is much easier said than done, however.

A repeat of the week two meeting is certainly not out of the question, particularly with the make-shift O-line that St. Louis will be starting. Then again, the Rams beat Seattle last week to get to Atlanta, proving that anything is possible.

Personally, this game is frightening either way, Rams +6 to 7 or Atlanta -6 to 7. But the Under is not a horrible wager.

My Online Betting Action: None

Possible wager:

The Under @ 49.5

NFL Against the Spread – Online Betting Picks of the Week

The New York Jets (11-6) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (15-1)
Against the Spread:  Jets 9-7-1 | Steelers 10-5-1
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Steelers -9 +103 Over/Under 34u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -10 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -8.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 34.5u to 35u -110 to -111
The Jets impressed me on their way through San Diego. But keep in mind that they caught a really lucky break in OT.

The Jets receivers did not do a stellar job, Moss continued his case of the drops. The league leading rusher, Curtis Martin, was held to 66 yards. The defense made a monstrous mistake that gave the Charger 1st and goal at the end of regulation with Eric Barton's roughing the passer penalty. This led to the Brees to Gates 1 yard TD pass that sent it into OT.

Still, when given the opportunity they did take it. Marching right down to the Charger's 10 yard line and getting the 3 pointer from Doug Brien.

The Steelers are tougher to run against than San Diego. Additionally they gave up a paltry 177 yards a game in the air during the regular season. They are a perfect 8-0 at home, and have had a couple of weeks to heal, rest and prepare.

Pittsburgh should handle the game from start to finish. Then again the Charger's should have as well.

The Jets played tough against the Steelers in their last meeting, sacking Big Ben twice and getting a couple picks as well. That Roethlisberger didn't have the deep threat of Plaxico Burress certainly helped, but 9 points worth?

I think so. The Jets made mistakes that they were able to get away with against the Charger's. The Steelers are one of those teams that you cannot make mistakes against and expect to walk away unscathed (relatively speaking).

Small Wager:

My Online Betting Action: The Steelers -8.5

NFL Against the Spread – Opening Betting Lines NFL Playoffs Week 2


Saturday AFC and NFC Games

The New York Jets (11-6) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (15-1)
Against the Spread:  Jets 9-7-1 | Steelers 10-5-1
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Steelers -9 +103 Over/Under 34u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Steelers -10 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Steelers -8.5 -110
Over/Under 34.5u to 35u -110 to -111
The Jets impressed me on their way through San Diego. But keep in mind that they caught a really lucky break in OT.

The St. Louis Rams (9-8) at The Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
Against the Spread:  Rams 6-10-1 | Falcons 7-8-1
Game Time: 8:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Falcons -7 -103 Over/Under 48u -113
Current High NFL Betting Line: Falcons -7.5 +110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Falcons -7 -101 to -110
Over/Under 48u to 48.5u -103 to -110
The Rams bailed this gambler out of a losing weekend (I took them on the Money Line) and looked good doing it. Say what you want about Martz, but him and Bulger seem to have gotten a knack for this. Liking the Rams again, but nothing yet.

Sunday AFC and NFC Games

The Minnesota Vikings (9-8) at The Philadelphia Eagles (13-3)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 8-9-0 | Eagles 9-7-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Eagles -9 +101 Over/Under 49u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -11 +120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -9.5 -110 to -111
Over/Under 48u to 49.5u -103 to -110
The Vikings had a miracle game against the Packers. Or the Packers had a disgraceful game against the Vikings. Still not sure which. 10 points seems steep for a TO-less Eagles team.

The Indianapolis Colts (8-8) at The New England Patriots (9-7)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 5-10-1 | Eagles 5-11-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Patriots EVEN -115 Over/Under 51.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -1 -116
Over/Under 51.5u to 52u -104 to -111
New England may get a bit of a boost in the secondary with the signing of ex-Steeler Hank Poteat. Considering he's been out of work for sometime means his impact should be taken with a grain of salt. All the same, the Pats' know what the deal is. As almost a PICK, New England looks ripe.

Now, because I can:

Anna takes a moment to “smile” for NFL Online Betting

NFL Against the Spread – Picks of the Week Saturday – Part 4


Sunday Wild Card Late Game

The Minnesota Vikings (8-8) at The Green Bay Packers (10-6)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 7-9-0 | Packers 7-9-0
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Packers -6 -107 Over/Under 48.5u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -7 +110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -6 -117
Over/Under 51.5u to 52.5u -108 to -120
Green Bay is Rocking and Rolling. The win last week proved how much this team (read Favre) wants this chance. Minnesota is our other 8-8 qualifier, and they back-doored their way in. St. Louis had to make the last two count. They did, which puts them a notch above the Vikings. Wager already on the Packers before the line climbs any higher.

The Vikings have shown time and again that they can't get the job done when the pressure is on. They dropped the last 2 of regular season, and beat Detroit because of a missed extra point after the Lions scored at the end of the game.

Minnesota is hurting at a couple of key positions, namely safety, with Corey Chavous out with a broken elbow. Having WR Kelly Campbell sidelined may not seem that big a deal, but he has been a good situational receiver and will be missed by Culpepper if he is unable to go.

The Packers have gotten hot, Favre is ready for a shot at the Super Bowl and knows that the first step on this road is to defeat Minnesota. There is also the fact that he is unsure of his future and it may be that he sees this as, potentially, his last opportunity. Who knows?

Green Bay has gotten the upper hand in the previous two meetings by a field goal, both games ending with identical 34-31 scores. The Packers need to get out in front quickly and prove that they are worthy of contention to the rest of the league. The margin of victory needs to be greater the a mere 3 points.

As for injuries, WR Robert Fergusons' status is unchanged, still listed as Doubtful, but the rest of the first team seems ready to play ball.

This game is just as much about next weeks game as it is about the victory today.

My Online Betting Action: The Packers -6

NFL Against the Spread – Picks of the Week Saturday – Part 3


Sunday Wild Card Early Game

The Denver Broncos (10-6) at The Indianapolis Colts (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Broncos 6-7-3 | Colts 9-6-1
Game Time: 1:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Colts -10 -110 Over/Under 56.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -11.5 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -10 -110 to -120
Over/Under 55.5u to 56u -106 to -125
So Denver came up big against the the Colts second team last week. Wonder what kind of success they will see against the Real Indianapolis Colts. -10 is the only reason that a wager hasn't been made yet.

After Looking and Looking at this game, then watching back to back upsets, it became readily apparent why they call this “Wild Card” weekend. Therefore this is going to be brief.

Although the Colts should not have a problem beating the Bronco's, wagering on that outcome, particularly -10 points, is not a Value Wager.

There are a few dings to the Colts offense, namely WR Brandon Stokely, that depending on the true severity, could limit this team a bit offensively.

The Bronco's beat Indianapolis but with virtually none of Indy's starters in the game. So you can scratch that one. You have to go back a little further to see how they have handled the last few games. Well the answer is, so-so. While they held Tennessee to 16 points they were firebombed by the very inept Raider O. They lost to the stout Chargers, but by a mere field goal. Two weeks later they get their hats handed to them Kansas City in a 45-17 loss.

Denver has been streaky all season so expecting a win is a stretch, and even getting 10, it still doesn't merit a wager. Fact of the matter is, you just don't know what Denver team will show up.

But because I'm a glutton for punishment (and caught both my MO wager on St. Louis and the 2 teamer):

My Online Betting Action: 2 Team Teaser The Colts -10(+6) The Under 56 (+6)

NFL Against the Spread – Picks of the Week Saturday – Part 2


Saturday Wild Card Late Game
Early Game


The New York Jets (10-6) at The San Diego Chargers (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Jets 8-7-1 | Chargers 13-1-2 (Wow!)
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Chargers -6.5 -115 Over/Under 44u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7.5 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -109 to -125
Over/Under 41.5u to 42u EVEN to -115 <--- Weather related.
Jets on a two game losing skid, Chargers losing only 1 of their last 10 and at home... Liking the Charger's in this match-up.

Going against the Jets as underdogs seems a bad proposal what with Martin and Jordan pounding the ball against you. But SD has a good run stopping game, albeit maybe not as tested as it will be against that tandem.

The real reason that I like the Charger's is three fold. They are good at home, they have the best ATS in the NFL and they have not been in the playoffs in a long time. There is also, LT, Antonio Gates and contract year QB, Drew Brees.

The Jets have not played well. It's not a perception it's a fact. They have failed to maintain games that they should have won. Their defense is allowing too many second half points, and the coaching system is not allowing for that lost ground.

The Chargers give up a couple more points a game defensively than the Jets do. However, offensively they outscore NY by better than 7. That and the fact that the Chargers play 4 quarters of good ball is a part of the reason behind a Charger's wager. More on this later.

The injury to Pennington's rotator cuff has limited his ability to throw down field and has clearly hurt his accuracy. The result has been a dependence on their running game and short-range passes.

This plays right into the strengths of the Chargers defense. Primarily the linebackers. Donnie Edwards, perhaps this season’s greatest Pro Bowl snub, has a knack for momentum-changing plays and is strong against the run and the pass. Wade Phillips’ has become a force in the 3-4 defense, registering 10 sacks this year after having only 10.5 in his entire career.

Bottom line, after adjusting for strength of schedule (Jets play in a D first Div., SD in a O first Div.), the numbers are upside-down. The Jets have a weaker defense than the Chargers, and a slightly better offense. What makes this a more interesting fact is that while both offenses have slowed a bit, Jets' have slowed more. Defensively, both teams have stepped it up, but again the advantage lies with the Chargers.

My Online Betting Action: The Chargers -6.5

NFL Against the Spread – Picks of the Week Saturday – Part 1


Saturday Wild Card Early Game

The St. Louis Rams (8-8) at The Seattle Seahawks (9-7)
Against the Spread:  Rams 5-10-1 | Seahawks 5-11-0
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Seahawks -4 -109 Over/Under 51.5u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -3.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -4+101 to -110
Over/Under 50u to 50.5u EVEN to -115
Well everyone guessed it, 8-8 teams would see the playoffs in the NFC. Momentum being equal going into this game, this is a tough call as a pick. Seattle -4 makes it worth looking at towards the Rams.

Picking games on wild card weekend is probably as hard as picking games the first week of the season. Different reasoning behind it but the end result is the same. It's tough! Hence, the write-ups for these games will not be very lengthy as there aren't reasons for large wagers on the games.

Rams and Seahawks both have momentum going their way. I think that the Shaun Alexander thing is of little to no concern through the playoffs, although it will undoubtedly rear it's ugly head in the off season.

I like the Rams primarily due to the level of experience they have in games just like this (Martz critics hold your collective toungues). They are a team that plays well under pressure. Also, despite being on the Doubtful list, G Tom Nutten may still start. His intensity on the field helps as much as his abilities. RB Steven Jackson may well see the “passing of the torch” in this game.

The Seahawks have, by far, the superior defense, but it is one that has not been able to stop St. Louis. Home field advantage has helped (5-3), but not as much as one would like. They were unable to defeat the Rams on the road or at home during the regular season.

Going against Seattle is by no stretch a lock so, for a small, “just to have fun”, wager:

My Online Betting Action: 2 Team Teaser The Rams +4(+6) The Under 50 (+6) <-- Under due to the high probability of rain/snow.

Another possibility, if you are really confident in the Rams:

Money Line The Rams around +150

NFL Against the Spread – Betting Line Changes & Injury Update

The St. Louis Rams (8-8) at The Seattle Seahawks (9-7)
Against the Spread:  Rams 5-10-1 | Seahawks 5-11-0
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Seahawks -4 -109 Over/Under 51.5u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -4 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -3.5 -110 to -115
Over/Under 50.5u EVEN to -111

Rams
Doubtful:
RB Arlen Harris (hamstring)
G Tom Nutten (knee)

Questionable:
DE Tyoka Jackson (ankle)
DE Leonard Little (groin)

Probable :
WR Isaac Bruce (hip)
LB Brandon Chillar (shoulder)
DE Bryce Fisher (ankle)

Seahawks
Out:
DT Marcus Tubbs (ankle)
WR Jerheme Urban (foot)

Doubtful :
DE Grant Wistrom (knee)

Questionable :
LB Niko Koutouvides (knee)
TE Itula Mili (thigh)
CB Bobby Taylor (knee)

Probable:
WR Darrell Jackson (hamstring)
CB Marcus Trufant (thigh)
G Jerry Wunsch (illness).

---

The New York Jets (10-6) at The San Diego Chargers (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Jets 8-7-1 | Chargers 13-1-2 (Wow!)
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Chargers -6.5 -115 Over/Under 44u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7.5 +110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -111 to -115
Over/Under 42u to 42.5u +103 to -111

Jets
Questionable :
LB Kenyatta Wright (ankle)

Probable :
DE John Abraham (knee)
WR Wayne Chrebet (concussion)


Chargers
Questionable :
CB Sammy Davis (fracture lower leg)
WR Tim Dwight (toe)
WR Keenan McCardell (hamstring)

Probable :
RB Jesse Chatman (toe)

---

The Denver Broncos (10-6) at The Indianapolis Colts (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Broncos 6-7-3 | Colts 9-6-1
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Colts -10 -110 Over/Under 56.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -11.5 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -10 -105 to -111
Over/Under 55.5u to 56u EVEN to -111

Broncos
Questionable :
RB Kyle Johnson (ankle)
G Dan Neil (abdomen/knee)

Probable :
CB Roc Alexander (ankle)
WR Triandos Luke (concussion)
S John Lynch (thumb)
DE Anton Palepoi (shoulder)
DE Trevor Pryce (back)

Colts
Out:
LB Gilbert Gardner (shoulder)

Questionable :
CB Jason David (foot)
G Rick DeMulling (ribs)
TE Marcus Pollard (ankle)
WR Troy Walters (head)

Probable :
S Idrees Bashir (hamstring)
LB Gary Brackett (hamstring/thigh)
TE Dallas Clark (head)
CB Nick Harper (back)
DE Robert Mathis (groin)
LB Rob Morris (head)
WR Brandon Stokley (foot)

---

The Minnesota Vikings (8-8) at The Green Bay Packers (10-6)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 7-9-0 | Packers 7-9-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Packers -6 -107 Over/Under 48.5u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -7 +110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -6 -105 to -116
Over/Under 50u -110 to -111


Vikings
Out:
S Corey Chavous (elbow)

Questionable :
WR Kelly Campbell (shoulder)

Probable :
CB Terrance Shaw (ribs)
RB Moe Williams (ankle)
CB Brian Williams (illness)

Packers
Doubtful:
WR Robert Ferguson (head/neck)

Probable:
RB Najeh Davenport (shoulder)
TE Bubba Franks (knee)
DT Grady Jackson (knee)
RB Vonta Leach (shin/ankle)
LB Paris Lenon (elbow)

Picks coming up shortly...

NFL Against the Spread – Opening Betting Lines

Wild Card Weekend

Saturday Wild Card Games

The St. Louis Rams (8-8) at The Seattle Seahawks (9-7)
Against the Spread:  Rams 5-10-1 | Seahawks 5-11-0
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Seahawks -4 -109 Over/Under 51.5u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -4 -116
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -4 -109
Over/Under 51.5u -108 to -111
Well everyone guessed it, 8-8 teams would see the playoffs in the NFC. Momentum being equal going into this game, this is a tough call as a pick. Seattle -4 makes it worth looking at towards the Rams. Nothing yet, however.

The New York Jets (10-6) at The San Diego Chargers (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Jets 8-7-1 | Chargers 13-1-2 (Wow!)
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Chargers -6.5 -115 Over/Under 44u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7.5 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6.5 -110 to -120
Over/Under 44u to 44.5u -110 to -111
Jets on a two game losing skid, Chargers losing only 1 of their last 10 and at home... Liking the Charger's in this match-up. Waiting on the wager to see if the line drifts towards the Jets.

Sunday Wild Card Games

The Denver Broncos (10-6) at The Indianapolis Colts (12-4)
Against the Spread:  Broncos 6-7-3 | Colts 9-6-1
Game Time: 4:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Colts -10 -110 Over/Under 56.5u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -12 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -10 -110 to -120
Over/Under 56u to 56.5u -106 to -111
So Denver came up big against the the Colts second team last week. Wonder what kind of success they will see against the Real Indianapolis Colts. -10 is the only reason that a wager hasn't been made yet.

The Minnesota Vikings (8-8) at The Green Bay Packers (10-6)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 7-9-0 | Packers 7-9-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Packers -6 -107 Over/Under 48.5u -111
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -7 +105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -6 -107 to -116
Over/Under 48.5u to 49u -110 to -111
Green Bay is Rocking and Rolling. The win last week proved how much this team (read Favre) wants this chance. Minnesota is our other 8-8 qualifier, and they back-doored their way in. St. Louis had to make the last two count. They did, which puts them a notch above the Vikings. Wager already on the Packers before the line climbs any higher.

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Picks of The Week 17

The Final Regular Season NFL Match-ups

Here are the games worth noting and possible Online Betting Action.

Main Picks

The Green Bay Packers (9-6) at The Chicago Bears (5-10)
Against the Spread:  Packers 6-9-0 | Bears 5-10-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Bears -3 -105 Over/Under 34u +101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bears -3 -110 to -120
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bears -3 -110 to -120
Over/Under 34u to 35.5u +102 to -110
Another tricky one, GB has nothing to gain by winning. Chicago may play to win or play to evaluate.

Despite Green Bay's playoff status being unaffected by the outcome of this game there are a couple other things that give this game some Wagering Value.

The Packers have struggled recently to get off to early leads/starts. In the last four games Green Bay has not scored in the first quarter. This is an area that Mike Sherman wants to change prior to the beginning of the post season. So, unlike other teams that have their position all sewn up, the Packers are looking for a momentum swing before Wild Card Weekend. Since, in all likelihood, they will face off with Minnesota or Carolina they need to get that first quarter monkey off their collective backs. Even if a miracle happens and St. Louis ends up in the Wild Card game, they need to be able to score quickly so they can get a good running passing mix going to keep those offenses off the field.

The Packers are going to be without WR Robert Ferguson for their regular season finale. The good news is that Antonio Chatman did a fine job, stepping up to the plate when they needed him to for those critical 1st down catches. RB Najeh Davenport is listed as questionable, troubled with his shoulder injury. The fact that RB Ahman Green is still nursing his ribs gives them more incentive to get off to a quick lead. If they can accomplish that then they can use him sparingly, replacing him at some stage of the game with Tony Fisher.

There is also the great road record that the Packers have (5-2) that they would like to increase to 6-2, just one game under their best set in '72 (6-1). QB Brett Favre is well within making the 4000 yard and 30 touchdown milestone in the same season for a third time. There are other team and individual single-season Packers records that are within reach. The main point however, is getting the momentum going for the post season. Considering their road record, particularly against the Bears, Chicago seems to be the right place at the right to do just that.

The Bears are on a 3 game losing streak and with the exception of the Detroit loss, have been beaten by pretty wide margins. Going into all the troubles that Chicago has is like beating a dead horse, it's useless and kind of mean spirited.

Lovie Smith does have some bright spots for next season. They have a young and talented defense, that has lots of potential. If they can make a few off season moves and make a few good draft choices, they have something of a foundation to build from offensively. But none of this matters for this game.

My Online Betting Action: The Packers +3

Recent Trends
•GB is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.
•GB is 2-5 ATS in their last seven overall.
•Over is 9-2 in GB last 11 overall.
•CHI is 2-6 ATS in their last eight home games.
•Under is 5-0 in CHI last five overall.
•Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

The N.Y. Jets (10-5) at The St. Louis Rams (7-8)
Against the Spread:  Jets 8-6-1 | Rams 4-10-1
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Jets -3 +109 Over/Under 43u +109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -3.5 -101 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -3 -110 to -125
Over/Under 43u to 43.5u -105 to -110
Both the teams are in a “must win” to see the post season. The Jets are in the drivers seat however, as they can seal their fate either way in this game.

Not going to go into a big description of this game nor all the numbers to substantiate the value in this game.

Both teams need this win, but the Jets know that they can clinch a berth if they win.

St. Louis needs the win as well, but their fate will still be in the hands of others.

The Jets will use both RB's Curtis Martin and LaMont Jordan to keep the Rams offense off the field as much as possible, and they will be pounding against a suspect rush defense. Plus they will get the opportunity to take shots down field against a relatively weak secondary that's not going to have FS Aeneas Williams.

Small wager.

My Online Betting Action: The Jets -3

Recent Trends
•Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.
•Under is 5-1 in NYJ last six overall.
•Jets are 4-2 ATS in their last six overall.
•Rams are 2-7 ATS in their last nine overall.
•Under is 4-0 in STL last four overall.
•STL is 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings.

The Pittsburgh Steelers (14-1) at The Buffalo Bills (96)
Against the Spread:  Steelers 9-5-1 | Bills 11-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Bills -9 -110 Over/Under 34u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bills -10 +105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bills -9 -108 to -110
Over/Under 34u -105 to -110
The Steelers gain nothing by a win, as everything is set for them. Bills win and have a shot, but that's a lot to cover against the D of the Steelers.

The Steelers will not be using the following key offensive players:
QB Ben Roethlisberger
RB Duce Staley
RB Jerome Bettis
That speaks Volumes, and relegates this to a pretty short write up.

Buffalo can clinch with a win and they are playing very good ball. They are decently healthy and as long as QB Drew Bledsoe decides to give away this one, a win should not be that unsurmountable a task.

So the real question here is, can they cover the spread?

It's the answer that brings this to the less value mark.

Maybe. That's the answer. The Steelers D is tough and that means that there is going to have to be more than just RB Willis McGahee and the running game to beat Pittsburgh by better than a touchdown. So we are back to looking at Bledsoe. His numbers have improved a bit lately and that is why this gets a small wager.

My Online Betting Action: The Bills -9

Recent Trends
•PIT is 9-0 ATS in the last nine meetings.
•Under is 7-1 in PIT last eight overall.
•Over is 7-0 in PIT last seven games in Jan.
•BUF is 10-2 ATS in their last 12 overall.
•Over is 8-1 in BUF last nine overall.
•Under is 4-1-1 in the last six meetings.

The San Fransisco 49ers (2-13) at The New England Patriots (13-2)
Against the Spread:  49ers 6-9-0 | Patriots 10-3-2
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Patriots -13.5 -104 Over/Under 37u -106
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -15 +115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Patriots -13 -110
Over/Under 37u to 40u EVEN to -110
Pat's have nothing to gain with a win. 49ers couldn't beat OSU on a good day. But covering 2 TD's from back-ups...?

This would be a no brainer, class A wager if it weren't for the fact that Tom Brady along with several other starters will probably not see more than a half of playing time. Against the 49ers however, a lot of damage can be done in 30 minutes.

Medium Wager because San Fransisco is so out-matched.

My Online Betting Action: The Patriots -13

Recent Trends
•SF is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings.
•SF is 2-7 ATS in their last nine overall.
•Over is 7-2 in SF last nine overall.
•NE is 10-3-1 ATS in their last 14 overall.
•NE is 7-3-2 ATS in their last 12 games in Jan.
•Under is 3-1 in the last four meetings.

The Kansas City Chiefs (7-8) at The San Diego Chargers (11-4)
Against the Spread:  Chiefs 6-9-0 | Chargers 12-1-2 Best ATS in the League
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Chiefs -3 -108 Over/Under 54.5u -101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chiefs -3 -116 to -125
Over/Under 51.5u to 52u -110
Chargers are locked, taking the hard earned AFC West Title. Vermeil wants to end the season on a high note. Betting against a team with the best ATS is a hard call. Over maybe...?

Reason for a wager on this one is simple. The Chargers can score too.

Again no reason for a long description of the match-up.

KC wants to finish on a high note, getting it done is San Diego against the AFC West Title holders is not where you want to get your hopes up too high. That being said, they can score and quickly. Although Schottenheimer may not want the win bad enough to start Brees (although he hasn't ruled it out), he doesn't want to get blown out in their regular season finale in front of their fans.
Small Wager

My Online Betting Action: The Over 51.5

Recent Trends
•Over is 6-3 in the last nine meetings.
•Over is 8-2 in KC last 10 overall.
•Over is 13-4 in KC last 17 vs. AFC West.
•SD is 11-0-1 ATS in their last 12 overall.
•Over is 10-2 in SD last 12 home games.
•SD is 4-2 ATS in the last six meetings.

NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Picks of The Week 17

The Final Regular Season NFL Match-ups

These are the games that seem to have the most Wagering Value.

The Cincinnati Bengals (7-8) at The Philadelphia Eagles (13-2)
Against the Spread:  Bengals 6-8-1 | Eagles 9-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Bengals -3 -101 Over/Under 41u +103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bengals -3.5 -105 to -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bengals -3 -130
Over/Under 39u to 40.5u +105 to -110
I think the same applies to the St. Louis game. Value based on who won't be playing and Lewis wanting to go 8-8.

Recent Trends
•CIN is 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings.
•Over is 4-1 in CIN last five overall.
•CIN is 3-0 ATS in their last three road games.
•Under is 11-3 in the Eagles last 14 overall.
•PHI is 0-3 ATS in their last three overall.
•PHI is 0-3 ATS in their last three games in Jan.

So here's the skinny. The Bengals need a 8-8 finish more than the Eagles need a win. Unfortunately QB Carson Palmer is slated as no. 2, which mean that Jon Kitna will probably start. Palmer may see some playing time in the second half, according to Head Coach Marvin Lewis. That remains to be seen. He did some practice drills with the first team but did not complete th 11-on-11 session. T Willie Anderson is listed as Probable but by all rights is good to go.

Expecting Lewis to put a team on the field with anything else but a win in mind seems unlikely. A .500 finish at least keeps up with last seasons numbers, a back-step could mean Bengals Pres, Mike Brown, getting more involved again. Something that no one in the locker room wants, least of all Lewis.

The Eagles are in much the same game mode as they were against St. Louis. Although the starters may see even less time on the field. RB Brian Westbrook is inactive, as is DE Jevon Kearse and OT Tra Thomas. QB Donovan McNabb will probably not play at all, Reid opting to be extra careful and split time between Koy Detmer (he looks like Martin Grammatica) and Jeff Blake. Others that may very well be missing from the line-up entire could be WR's Todd Pinkston and Freddie Mitchell, FS Brian Dawkins, ML Jeremiah Trotter and CB Lito Sheppard.

Bottom line is Andy Reid is playing for the ring and is going to protect those precious commodities that give him the best shout at it.

My Online Betting Action: The Bengals -2.5
Got Wager in before line change, it's now -3.5, but is still worthy a small to medium bet.

The Cleveland Browns (3-12) at The Houston Texans (7-8)
Against the Spread:  Browns 5-10-0 | Texans 9-6-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Texans -10.5 -102 Over/Under 39u -102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Texans -10 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Texans -8.5 -110
Over/Under 39u -110
Texans, Maybe? -9.5 is a lot considering how streaky they are. Just the same this game may have value, Dom needs a .500 finish.

The Browns are backpedaling about as fast as a team can. They are on a 9 game losing streak that probably won't end in Texas. They have allowed an average of 33.6 points a game in their last 5 overall and have manage just 15.4 a game. QB Luke McCown numbers have been dismal at best and it's looks as though he will be the starter, as Holcomb is listed as questionable with his rib injury. RB Lee Suggs is in good shape as is William Green. But Cleveland needs to be in charge of the game for those guys to play a real role. That assumes an early lead for the Browns, something that just doesn't happen all that often.

The Browns do have a decent passing D (7th), but it is offset by the awful rushing D (31st), that means that the Texans RB, Domanick Davis, should be able to exploit that area.

Speaking of Defenses, Houston doesn't really have a great on at 29th overall, but they score points when they get turnovers. 12 points on 20 picks (tied for 3rd in the league in INT's) and 30 points on 10 forced fumbles. Compared to a total of 12 points scored defensively by the Browns, those look like stellar numbers.

The Texans offense, led by QB David Carr and RB Domanick Davis, has the talent to do very well and has been somewhat productive, although streaky, over the last 5 weeks. They have scored an average just under the 20 point mark while allowing about 15 a game. They have had to play tougher competition however. When you look at the games against sub .500 teams the margin of victory is 14.5 points. That's not counting the shut-out 21-0 win over then 8-6 Jacksonville Jaguars.

So the question really becomes one of can they win by that big a margin. If Cleveland had a better than 0-7 road record then you would question it with the Texans 3-4 home record.

Looking elsewhere, in Conference games the Texans are 6-5 while the Browns are 2-9. In Divisional Games Houston is 4-2 versus Cleveland's 2-4 record.

So with all these numbers in mind, the Texans get the win. As for covering 9 points, looking at how they have done recently against sub par teams it goes for Houston as well.

My Online Betting Action: The Texans -9

Recent Trends
•CLE is 1-7 ATS in their last eight overall.
•Over is 4-1 in the Browns last five on the road.
•Over is 2-0 in CLE previous two games in Jan.
•HOU is 5-1 ATS in their last six overall.
•Under is 7-2-1 in HOU last 10 overall.
•HOU is 8-4 ATS in their last 12 on grass.

The Minnesota Vikings (8-7) at The Washington Redskins (5-10)
Against the Spread:  Vikings 7-8-0 | Redskins 5-10-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Vikings -4 -108 Over/Under 41u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -4 -105 to -113
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -3.5 -110
Over/Under 40.5u to 41u -105 to -110
Minnesota clinches NFC playoff berth with win. The Redskins are in re-coupe mode. Minnesota is a wager, size yet undetermined.

The Vikings are in a must win game to assure themselves of a Wild Card playoff berth. If the numbers are correct they still have a shot if everything plays out perfectly with a loss, but I'm quite sure that Head Coach Mike Tice doesn't want his fate in the hands of other teams.

Minnesota has all the weapons on offense that you could ask for. QB Daunte Culpepper is well over 4000 yards, with 37 TD's to his 11 INT's. WR Randy Moss is a constant bother for defenses and the forced coverage to keep him at bay has allowed Nate Burleson, and Marcus Robinson to see a good chunk of passes thrown their way. The Four Headed running back beast has been sufficient with Michael Bennett, Mewelde Moore, Onterrio Smith and Moe Williams.

The Vikings don't have much of a defense, but then again Washington doesn't have much of an offense. Those numbers become pretty much a wash.

Joe Gibbs would like nothing more than the end the season on a high note, and he does have the defense to do it.

Giving up only 16.5 points a game puts them in the top 5 overall in Pts. Against. They are not scoring D however, producing just 12 points on 18 INT's and 12 forced fumbles. That defense is going to be hampered a bit with the loss of CB Fred Smoot who will not be playing, out with a kidney injury. How they are going to move things around in the secondary is anyones guess. You will probably see Walt Harris lined up on the right side opposite Bruleson/Robinson which is should be a favorable match-up for the Vikings. Rookie CB Garnell Wilds will be back-up to Harris, again advantage Minnesota.

The Redskins offense is still makeshift at best. QB Patrick Ramsey will start and by all appearances, RB Ladell Betts will get his first start of the season with Clinton Portis placed on IR. The WR's spots are healthy, but Ramsey has to have time to through the ball for them to come into play. Considering that he has been sacked 14 times since being back as the starter, let's you know that he is not getting the protection up front that he needs.

Considering what's a stake for the Vikings and the low line based on what had been a ball control offense and solid secondary of the Redskins, the Vikings seem to be a good Value Wager this week.
My Online Betting Action: The Vikings -3.5

Recent Trends
•Over is 6-1 in the last seven meetings.
•MIN is 1-5 ATS in their last six overall.
•Over is 5-1 in MIN last six road games.
•Under is 14-5 in WAS last 19 overall.
•WAS is 4-1 ATS in their last five overall.
•WAS is 4-2 ATS in the last six meetings.

The Atlanta Falcons (11-4) at The Seattle Seahawks (8-7)
Against the Spread:  Falcons 6-8-1 | Seahawks 5-10-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Lines: The Seahawks -5.5 -105 Over/Under 42.5u +101
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -6.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -6 -105 to 110
Over/Under 42u to 42.5u -103 to -110
No Vick + Atlanta set for playoffs = no offense. Medium sized wager on Seattle -5.5.

The above appeared true until news late this week came out rumoring that QB Michael Vick may play. Both Vick and Mora are hush hush about it, but even if he does play it will be more in the passing capacity than using his legs. That means the TE Alge Crumpler out of the line up is going to be more of a factor. The reality is that if Vick isn't running the ball the offense just doesn't get much done.

On the other side of the ball, the Falcons may see CB Jason Webster back in the starting position. He will be amongst facing off at least some of the time against WR Darrell Jackson on the right side. This will be interesting to watch as Webster has not seen action in over a month and Jackson is a crafty route runner. CB Kevin Mathis has been upgraded to probable and will probably start. If he does, it will be on the right side and they will shift Webster over to the left, assuming he starts as well. It's a mess in the secondary know matter how you look at it. With CB's switching sides and question marks to boot.

Seattle can get the no. 4 seed and play host to the No. 5 seed (either Minnesota, Carolina or St. Louis) on Wild Card weekend. But they have at least clinched a playoff berth. The Division Title and being at home is what they seek now and that's pretty good motivation.

Up front on O, the Seahawks w/ FB Mack Strong back, should be able to
win the battle and allow for RB Shaun Alexander to do what he does best, score, yeah he runs too. Depending on whether or not Atlanta goes with their base personal this could be made a little easier with nickel and dime S Aaron Beasley playing more than usual, in which case it will be SS Bryan Scott sneaking up for the rush coverage instead of FS Cory Hall.

Seattle's lack-luster win last at home against Arizona should have lit a fire under this teams ***. If they have any hopes of going past the first round of the playoffs they need to get the momentum going now. With Atlanta already locked in place for their post season play, this looks like the Seahawks last chance to do that.

My Online Betting Action: The Seahawks -5.5

Recent Trends
•ATL is 3-0 ATS in the last three meetings in SEA.
•Under is 10-3 in ATL last 13 overall.
•ATL is 2-5 ATS in their last seven games in Jan.
•SEA is 2-10 ATS in their last 12 overall.
•Over is 10-2 in SEA last 12 overall.
•Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

That's it for the games that I think have solid Value. Will have the “Questionable” match-ups posted shortly.

P.S. Apologies in advance for any blatant mistakes, typed this one out from notes in a hurry, so...

Time for a little Rose Bowl