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.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Friday, November 12, 2004
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 agoodgreat 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...
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
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...
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
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
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
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
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...
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...
Monday, November 08, 2004
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 loyalreaders reader, that decent content is forthcoming. Until then enjoy tonights "whatever you wanna call it" and a little Anna K.
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
Saturday, November 06, 2004
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.
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.
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!
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!
Thursday, November 04, 2004
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 bepolished 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.
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
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.
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
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.
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.
Monday, November 01, 2004
NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Monday Night Football
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -8 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -7 -109 to -120
Over/Under 35.5 to 36.5 -110
The N.Y. Jets have played consistently conservative football. I really thought they were going to open the playbook up a little bit last week against the Patriots, but Herm Edwards kept it close to the vest. The injury to wide receiver Santana Moss apparently played a bigger role than expected. Edwards has since publicly stated that he wanted to see more from his receivers, so tonight may very well be the night that quarterback Chad Pennington, who has been solid but has yet to put up big numbers, gets to loosen up a bit. All that is assuming that they establish the running game which should not be a problem, with Curtis Martin facing the 28th ranked rushing defense of the Miami Dolphins.
Miami has seen a lot more passing plays go their way the last couple of games with tightend Randy McMichael and wide receiver Chris Chambers getting bigger numbers. But with the questions as to the QB status as well as the wrist injury to running back Sammy Morris they are going to have a mountain to climb once again as they are facing a defense that is good against the rush (8th) and fair against the pass (16th). Offensively they just don't have a plethora of weapons at their disposal. The real key is going to be how corners Patrick Surtain and Sam Madison handle the Jet's receivers Santana Moss, Wayne Chrebet and Justin McCareins. They played admirably against St. Louis, they are going to have to play every bit as well tonight.
There are a couple of ways to go with this game. The Over if you can get it at about 35.5 is not a bad bet.
But here is the way that I have it:
My Online Betting Action: Jets -7
No idea how this relates to betting NFL football, reading about NFL football or anything else about the NFL. But hey, she did play tennis, so there it's sport related. Besides, Anna makes losing a lot less painful...
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -8 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -7 -109 to -120
Over/Under 35.5 to 36.5 -110
The N.Y. Jets have played consistently conservative football. I really thought they were going to open the playbook up a little bit last week against the Patriots, but Herm Edwards kept it close to the vest. The injury to wide receiver Santana Moss apparently played a bigger role than expected. Edwards has since publicly stated that he wanted to see more from his receivers, so tonight may very well be the night that quarterback Chad Pennington, who has been solid but has yet to put up big numbers, gets to loosen up a bit. All that is assuming that they establish the running game which should not be a problem, with Curtis Martin facing the 28th ranked rushing defense of the Miami Dolphins.
Miami has seen a lot more passing plays go their way the last couple of games with tightend Randy McMichael and wide receiver Chris Chambers getting bigger numbers. But with the questions as to the QB status as well as the wrist injury to running back Sammy Morris they are going to have a mountain to climb once again as they are facing a defense that is good against the rush (8th) and fair against the pass (16th). Offensively they just don't have a plethora of weapons at their disposal. The real key is going to be how corners Patrick Surtain and Sam Madison handle the Jet's receivers Santana Moss, Wayne Chrebet and Justin McCareins. They played admirably against St. Louis, they are going to have to play every bit as well tonight.
There are a couple of ways to go with this game. The Over if you can get it at about 35.5 is not a bad bet.
But here is the way that I have it:
My Online Betting Action: Jets -7
No idea how this relates to betting NFL football, reading about NFL football or anything else about the NFL. But hey, she did play tennis, so there it's sport related. Besides, Anna makes losing a lot less painful...
Sunday, October 31, 2004
NFL Against the Spread Online Betting ESPN Night Game
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | Bears 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bears -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bears -1 -110
Over/Under 35.5 to 36 –110
Instead of writing a bunch of nonsense about this game here’s a great excerpt from fellow blogger Bronczilla:
That pretty much sums up tonight’s game. I will only add the fact that these two offenses couldn’t play their way out of a paper bag. No matter how you look at the numbers, these two teams are very unlikely to eek out 28 points between them.
My Online Betting Action: 49ers Vs. Bears Under 36
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | Bears 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bears -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bears -1 -110
Over/Under 35.5 to 36 –110
Instead of writing a bunch of nonsense about this game here’s a great excerpt from fellow blogger Bronczilla:
49ers vs Bears
49ers blah blah blah statistically superior blah.
Bears blah blah suck worse blah blah blah.
Who cares?
Why does the NFL bother with Sunday night games when they obviously don’t care what kind of crap they hand ESPN to broadcast?
Who exactly was the brain trust who looked (at) these two teams at any point since last season and thought, “Ya know, I bet this’d be a good prime time match up!”?
Idiot.
That pretty much sums up tonight’s game. I will only add the fact that these two offenses couldn’t play their way out of a paper bag. No matter how you look at the numbers, these two teams are very unlikely to eek out 28 points between them.
My Online Betting Action: 49ers Vs. Bears Under 36
Saturday, October 30, 2004
NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 8 - Picks of the Week
The saga continues....
Against the Spread for the rest of the early games.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Texans -1.5 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Texans -0 -110
Over/Under 42.5 -110
The Jaguars played another heart stopper last week, relying on young gunner Byron Leftwich and this time rookie kicker Josh Scobee to get the job finished with just 38 ticks left on the clock. How many times can they keep doing that? Beating the Colts put them atop the AFC South but these final minute wins need to turn into final minute leads that don't have them scrambling around like headless chickens. Don't take that wrong way they do a great job of running the two minute offense. Jacksonville has won all five times within the last minute, that's a pretty hefty responsibility to lay on your offense week in and week out. A worry was taken off the table Friday as running back Fred Taylor was upgraded from questionable to probable with a quad injury. The Jaguars need him in the backfield, since LaBrandon Toefield and Greg Jones are his back-ups, neither of which has done much on the carries they have had. Wide-outs Jimmy Smith and Troy Edwards are having stand-up seasons and should see continued success against the “less than” passing D of the Texans.
The Houston Texans have been my “surprise that no one thought about” team of the season. The Texans are young, fast and learning. They have come up with three wins that they were underdogs in. The Vikings failed to cover the spread against them, after Houston forced the game into overtime as QB David Carr hooked up with receiver Andre Johnson for the score. Wide receiver Jabar Gaffney has been a pleasant surprise as well as Derick Armstrong. Running backs Domanick Davis and Jonathan Wells have combined nearly 800 yards, and have been a big part of this offense. This Houston team is going to be a force to reckon with in the coming seasons I think.
This is a very close match-up both statistically and talent wise. The Jaguars have the slight advantage in Fred Taylor, but the injury that is going to bother him, start or not, could play a crucial role. Carr and crew at home get a lot of motivation from their fans and I think that it's going to be what pushes this game. So assuming the above:
My Online Betting Action: Texans -1
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -6.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 48 to 48.5 -110
The Giants dropped a shocker to the Lions, at least a shocker to the Giants. I don't think that the Lions felt the same. I keep hearing/reading words about how the N.Y. Giants are the surprise team of their division, conference and even league. The only thing that rings true from that statement is that they lost that game. Yes the have had adversity to overcome with injuries at key positions across the board. But so have a lot of teams. The lack of energy that the defense played with cost them that game, and will cost them this game if they don't kick it up a couple notches. Quarterback Kurt Warner has been a surprise but he has not got enough weapons, and is not getting the help up front that he needs. He's been sacked over 20 times and has had the ball forced out of his hands over a half dozen. Wide receiver Amani Toomer is a huge question mark with a hamstring injury and the loss of Tim Carter does not help that situation any. That means someone else, David Tyree or maybe rookie Jamaar Taylor, is going to have to add a little life to the passing game if the Giants hope to stay in this one. Running back Tiki Barber who had been another big surprise, coming off two consecutive 100+ yard games and no fumbles, was brought back down to earth, being held to 70 yards on 20 some carries and a fumble. Whether he returns to the RB that he was becoming this year or returns to the RB that he has been in the past is going to be a big part of this game.
Defensively they are going to have to play bigger than their 14th ranking. Luckily for them they will be the toughest defense that the Vikings have had to face this year.
Just a few quick notes on the Minnesota Vikings. Randy Moss will most likely play but is going to be a little off due to his hamy problem. But it's still Randy Moss, so he will see double coverage all day. New York is still going to have their hands full with Nate Burleson, Marcus Robinson, Kelly Campbell and to a lesser degree Jermaine Wiggins lined up in the tight end position. Plus running back Mewelde Moore is getting the motor running and may get a little support from returning RB Moe Williams. Quarterback Daunte Culpepper's near perfect QB rating (does it get any better than 124.0?) and pass completion percentage of 73% has got to scare even the toughest passing D, and the Giants don't have that.
My Online Betting Action: Vikings -6.5
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 39 -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -110
Over/Under 39 -110
Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons get my vote as the underachievers of the year award. Actually, I should re-phrase that; Michael Vick gets my vote for underachieving quarterback of the year. If it wasn't for his feet, he would be a complete non-factor in any of their 5 wins. It has been their schedule and the defense against the rush that has enabled them to be 5-2 and have the lead in the NFC South. More than anything though, is the schedule. Kansas City exploited every weakness that Atlanta has last week and blew them out 56-10. No big speel on this game, no need. Broncos are the superior team and should handle the Falcons without much difficulty.
Ah, the Denver Broncos... You think they got an ear full this week after losing to the lowly Bengals? Running back Reuben Droughns did rush for over 100 yards but coughed the ball up and failed numerous times to convert on third down. Quarterback Jake Plummer got picked twice and his famous offensive line allowed 3 sacks. About the only things that could be said good about the game were the performances of safety John Lynch and corner Champ Bailey. Lynch always plays tough, and Champ is Champ, but he struggled to keep pace with the speedy wide-out Chad Johnson. Head coach Mike Shanahan may be a slimy S.O.B. but he knows how to get into his players heads. I really feel sorry for Atlanta, as they are going to be the outlet for what Shanahan has done to these guys this week.
My Online Betting Action: Broncos -6.5
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8.5 -100
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8 -105 to -110
Over/Under 39 to 39.5 -110
I started writing about the Panthers, but everything I wrote just lead to another area were the team was bad. I don't want to sit here and write a list of problems that everyone knows is there. What's the point? So I'll just make it short and to the point. They're Sunk! I'm sorry Panther fans, but your teams shipped has gone out with the tide. I would like to write something good and/or promising about them but there isn't anything there. Ok I'll throw you a bone, WR Keary Colbert, feel better? I know that it's not lack of heart or desire or drive that is doing this to Carolina. But the losses at running back and wide receiver have really put the capper on this season.
Head coach Mike Holmgren was visibly shaken in the post game interview after the loss to the Arizona Cardinals. His words bemoaned the problems that the Seahawks have got to find a way of dealing with if they hope to see post-season play. A win last week would have put them in sole ownership of the NFC West. Instead St. Louis holds that spot and the Seahawks sit number two at a disappointing 3-3. It's disappointing because they have what could be one of the elite quarterbacks in Matt Hasselbeck, a proven commodity at running back with Shaun Alexander and top tier receivers Darrell Jackson and Koren Robinson. They are the least penalized team in the NFL, a marked improvement from last season. They have a solid defense and one of the best give away take away ratios in the NFL with 10 interceptions and 8 forced fumbles (+10, second best in the NFL). It is these things that make it such a disappointing year so far.
Could there be any truth to the uniform thing? Maybe they got a little over excited about having Jerry Rice on their squad?
In any case, Seahawks get a chance to redeem themselves and know that with the Rams on bye they can at least tie up the division with a win. They have the perfect team to rebound on in the Panthers and I'm sure they are eager to put some monster numbers on the board to help folks forget about last week.
My Online Betting Action: Seahawks -7.5
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line Patriots -3 100 to -110
Over/Under 42 to 42.5 -105 to –110
The Steelers are playing remarkably well in spite of some early concerns about the quarterback position. Ben Roethlisberger has a 100.1 passer rating and a completion percentage of 69%. Receivers Plaxico Burress and Hines Ward have been great targets for him. Running back Duce Staley has been a more than welcome addition and even though he tweaked his knee a bit will be playing Sunday. Fellow back Jerome Bettis refuses to throw in the towel and is being rewarded for his efforts by getting the situational play that has been giving them key third down conversions and short and goal scores. They have injuries like everyone else, but are playing solidly on both offense and defense. Coach Bill Cowhers blitz package showed real life against Dallas a couple weeks ago, so expecting to see more of that this week.
The New England Patriots are still in a class by themselves in the NFL. They are not as talented overall as some teams but are without question one of the most well run organizations around today. I know I have said it before but it warrants repeating, Bill Belichick is the best “thinking” coach of today. Running back Corey Dillon has found a welcome place to plant his cleats, on target to rush for better than 1200 yards. And although quarterback Tom Brady struggled a bit last week he was still over 200 yards passing. But that defense, do they ever come up big when called on. And not just now and then but consistently.
Last week was the worst that I have seen the Pats' play, and if that's their worst then 3 points is not enough.
So despite what the numbers say, and how good the Steelers Iron Curtain may be, the Patriots go 7-0 and cover (not another darned push)
My Online Betting Action: Patriots -3.5
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 –105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6 -110
Over/Under 46 -110
I don't like this game so I'm not going to waste your time with much about it. San Diego has been a good bet all year because they have been dogs, but not playing like it. The Raiders, however, have the potential to be an upset in the making against the Chargers. I think the Chargers get the win, and they really should cover, but these in state rivalries have a way of working out exactly how you don't expect.
My Online Betting Action: none
Expected outcome: Chargers
The saga continues....
Against the Spread for the rest of the early games.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Texans -1.5 -105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Texans -0 -110
Over/Under 42.5 -110
The Jaguars played another heart stopper last week, relying on young gunner Byron Leftwich and this time rookie kicker Josh Scobee to get the job finished with just 38 ticks left on the clock. How many times can they keep doing that? Beating the Colts put them atop the AFC South but these final minute wins need to turn into final minute leads that don't have them scrambling around like headless chickens. Don't take that wrong way they do a great job of running the two minute offense. Jacksonville has won all five times within the last minute, that's a pretty hefty responsibility to lay on your offense week in and week out. A worry was taken off the table Friday as running back Fred Taylor was upgraded from questionable to probable with a quad injury. The Jaguars need him in the backfield, since LaBrandon Toefield and Greg Jones are his back-ups, neither of which has done much on the carries they have had. Wide-outs Jimmy Smith and Troy Edwards are having stand-up seasons and should see continued success against the “less than” passing D of the Texans.
The Houston Texans have been my “surprise that no one thought about” team of the season. The Texans are young, fast and learning. They have come up with three wins that they were underdogs in. The Vikings failed to cover the spread against them, after Houston forced the game into overtime as QB David Carr hooked up with receiver Andre Johnson for the score. Wide receiver Jabar Gaffney has been a pleasant surprise as well as Derick Armstrong. Running backs Domanick Davis and Jonathan Wells have combined nearly 800 yards, and have been a big part of this offense. This Houston team is going to be a force to reckon with in the coming seasons I think.
This is a very close match-up both statistically and talent wise. The Jaguars have the slight advantage in Fred Taylor, but the injury that is going to bother him, start or not, could play a crucial role. Carr and crew at home get a lot of motivation from their fans and I think that it's going to be what pushes this game. So assuming the above:
My Online Betting Action: Texans -1
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -6.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 48 to 48.5 -110
The Giants dropped a shocker to the Lions, at least a shocker to the Giants. I don't think that the Lions felt the same. I keep hearing/reading words about how the N.Y. Giants are the surprise team of their division, conference and even league. The only thing that rings true from that statement is that they lost that game. Yes the have had adversity to overcome with injuries at key positions across the board. But so have a lot of teams. The lack of energy that the defense played with cost them that game, and will cost them this game if they don't kick it up a couple notches. Quarterback Kurt Warner has been a surprise but he has not got enough weapons, and is not getting the help up front that he needs. He's been sacked over 20 times and has had the ball forced out of his hands over a half dozen. Wide receiver Amani Toomer is a huge question mark with a hamstring injury and the loss of Tim Carter does not help that situation any. That means someone else, David Tyree or maybe rookie Jamaar Taylor, is going to have to add a little life to the passing game if the Giants hope to stay in this one. Running back Tiki Barber who had been another big surprise, coming off two consecutive 100+ yard games and no fumbles, was brought back down to earth, being held to 70 yards on 20 some carries and a fumble. Whether he returns to the RB that he was becoming this year or returns to the RB that he has been in the past is going to be a big part of this game.
Defensively they are going to have to play bigger than their 14th ranking. Luckily for them they will be the toughest defense that the Vikings have had to face this year.
Just a few quick notes on the Minnesota Vikings. Randy Moss will most likely play but is going to be a little off due to his hamy problem. But it's still Randy Moss, so he will see double coverage all day. New York is still going to have their hands full with Nate Burleson, Marcus Robinson, Kelly Campbell and to a lesser degree Jermaine Wiggins lined up in the tight end position. Plus running back Mewelde Moore is getting the motor running and may get a little support from returning RB Moe Williams. Quarterback Daunte Culpepper's near perfect QB rating (does it get any better than 124.0?) and pass completion percentage of 73% has got to scare even the toughest passing D, and the Giants don't have that.
My Online Betting Action: Vikings -6.5
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 39 -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -110
Over/Under 39 -110
Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons get my vote as the underachievers of the year award. Actually, I should re-phrase that; Michael Vick gets my vote for underachieving quarterback of the year. If it wasn't for his feet, he would be a complete non-factor in any of their 5 wins. It has been their schedule and the defense against the rush that has enabled them to be 5-2 and have the lead in the NFC South. More than anything though, is the schedule. Kansas City exploited every weakness that Atlanta has last week and blew them out 56-10. No big speel on this game, no need. Broncos are the superior team and should handle the Falcons without much difficulty.
Ah, the Denver Broncos... You think they got an ear full this week after losing to the lowly Bengals? Running back Reuben Droughns did rush for over 100 yards but coughed the ball up and failed numerous times to convert on third down. Quarterback Jake Plummer got picked twice and his famous offensive line allowed 3 sacks. About the only things that could be said good about the game were the performances of safety John Lynch and corner Champ Bailey. Lynch always plays tough, and Champ is Champ, but he struggled to keep pace with the speedy wide-out Chad Johnson. Head coach Mike Shanahan may be a slimy S.O.B. but he knows how to get into his players heads. I really feel sorry for Atlanta, as they are going to be the outlet for what Shanahan has done to these guys this week.
My Online Betting Action: Broncos -6.5
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8.5 -100
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8 -105 to -110
Over/Under 39 to 39.5 -110
I started writing about the Panthers, but everything I wrote just lead to another area were the team was bad. I don't want to sit here and write a list of problems that everyone knows is there. What's the point? So I'll just make it short and to the point. They're Sunk! I'm sorry Panther fans, but your teams shipped has gone out with the tide. I would like to write something good and/or promising about them but there isn't anything there. Ok I'll throw you a bone, WR Keary Colbert, feel better? I know that it's not lack of heart or desire or drive that is doing this to Carolina. But the losses at running back and wide receiver have really put the capper on this season.
Head coach Mike Holmgren was visibly shaken in the post game interview after the loss to the Arizona Cardinals. His words bemoaned the problems that the Seahawks have got to find a way of dealing with if they hope to see post-season play. A win last week would have put them in sole ownership of the NFC West. Instead St. Louis holds that spot and the Seahawks sit number two at a disappointing 3-3. It's disappointing because they have what could be one of the elite quarterbacks in Matt Hasselbeck, a proven commodity at running back with Shaun Alexander and top tier receivers Darrell Jackson and Koren Robinson. They are the least penalized team in the NFL, a marked improvement from last season. They have a solid defense and one of the best give away take away ratios in the NFL with 10 interceptions and 8 forced fumbles (+10, second best in the NFL). It is these things that make it such a disappointing year so far.
Could there be any truth to the uniform thing? Maybe they got a little over excited about having Jerry Rice on their squad?
In any case, Seahawks get a chance to redeem themselves and know that with the Rams on bye they can at least tie up the division with a win. They have the perfect team to rebound on in the Panthers and I'm sure they are eager to put some monster numbers on the board to help folks forget about last week.
My Online Betting Action: Seahawks -7.5
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line Patriots -3 100 to -110
Over/Under 42 to 42.5 -105 to –110
The Steelers are playing remarkably well in spite of some early concerns about the quarterback position. Ben Roethlisberger has a 100.1 passer rating and a completion percentage of 69%. Receivers Plaxico Burress and Hines Ward have been great targets for him. Running back Duce Staley has been a more than welcome addition and even though he tweaked his knee a bit will be playing Sunday. Fellow back Jerome Bettis refuses to throw in the towel and is being rewarded for his efforts by getting the situational play that has been giving them key third down conversions and short and goal scores. They have injuries like everyone else, but are playing solidly on both offense and defense. Coach Bill Cowhers blitz package showed real life against Dallas a couple weeks ago, so expecting to see more of that this week.
The New England Patriots are still in a class by themselves in the NFL. They are not as talented overall as some teams but are without question one of the most well run organizations around today. I know I have said it before but it warrants repeating, Bill Belichick is the best “thinking” coach of today. Running back Corey Dillon has found a welcome place to plant his cleats, on target to rush for better than 1200 yards. And although quarterback Tom Brady struggled a bit last week he was still over 200 yards passing. But that defense, do they ever come up big when called on. And not just now and then but consistently.
Last week was the worst that I have seen the Pats' play, and if that's their worst then 3 points is not enough.
So despite what the numbers say, and how good the Steelers Iron Curtain may be, the Patriots go 7-0 and cover (not another darned push)
My Online Betting Action: Patriots -3.5
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 –105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6 -110
Over/Under 46 -110
I don't like this game so I'm not going to waste your time with much about it. San Diego has been a good bet all year because they have been dogs, but not playing like it. The Raiders, however, have the potential to be an upset in the making against the Chargers. I think the Chargers get the win, and they really should cover, but these in state rivalries have a way of working out exactly how you don't expect.
My Online Betting Action: none
Expected outcome: Chargers
Friday, October 29, 2004
NFL Against the Spread Online Betting Week 8 Picks of the Week
Ok folks, Fast and furious. Was going to do a big post, but ran out of time... hold thesighs applause to a minimum please. I have my fedora in place, a fresh pack of Kools and I'm ready to go.
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3.5 –105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 –110 to -130
Over/Under 33.5 to 35.5 -110
Would the real Cardinals please stand up? They must have put something other than Gatorade in those water bottles last week. The 25-17 upset of the Seattle Seahawks was just more proof that those Seattle uniforms have got to change. Seriously though, Arizona outplayed Holmgren's 'Hawks from whistle to whistle. In nearly every category they were ahead, just as the score reflected. Who says parity isn't good for the NFL? They may be getting their Stud To Be wide receiver Anquan Boldin back, but I doubt that it will have much impact considering the numbers that his conterpart Larry Fitzgerald, is putting up. More important will be the health of the corner back and strong safety positions with with David Macklin and Adrian Wilson still banged up.
Moving on, the Bills didn't fair so well last week losing another one, primarily do to quarter back(can we really call him that?) Drew Bledsoe's complete breakdown. The only turnover that wasn't his fault was the ball that Prime Time got after being tipped by Chad Williams. Yet he had the audacity to make the following statement after the game:
Excuse me, “We've got to play better.”, “...our offense isn't good enough in the passing game...”, what planet are you on Drew? Yeah, I know you aren't getting the protection you need from your line. But you are a seasoned veteran, you should know by now how to throw the ball away. I may not know what the answer is either, but I know that it isn't giving the ball to the other team five times.
Why I wasted this much verbiage on this game I have no idea. Who cares who wins, Bills fans and Cardinals fans, that's about it.
For what it's worth I think the Cardinals get two in a row.
My Online Betting Action: None.
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7 -115
Over/Under 37.5 to 38 -110
The loss of running back Jamal Lewis will show it's real colors this week against the Eagles. They better have some ground game strategy mapped out or they are in trouble. Being as injury laden as they are offensively they cannot afford the luxury of getting behind by 10 and climbing back as Cleveland did. Remember that the Browns got a gift roughing the passer penalty on a fourth and seven play that set them up to put it into over-time. These are things that happen, but can't be expected. Another thing that can't be expected is the lack efficiency that the Eagles had in the red-zone. To throw salt on the wound, tackle Jonathan Ogden is questionable (although it's rumored that he'll play) which is going to make life even tougher for quarter back Kyle Boller, who proffered up a meager 60 yards last week.
What can I say about the Eagles that hasn't already been said about a thousand times. Quarter back Donovan McNabb is playing the best ball of his career. Wide receiver Terrel Owens is on pace to have the best season of his career and let's not forget the fact that they are in the top three in passing yards, points per game and yards per game. The Eagles McNabb has a QB rating of 105, and a completion percentage of 65%. Owens has a 99.3 yard per game average with 8 touchdowns. Defensively they are average, but do hold their opponents to under 16 points a game, just a couple notches below Baltimore. That's counting the 31 that the Browns scored.
My Online Betting Action: Eagles -7
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Titans -3.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -110 to -120
Over/Under 40.5 -110
You all know the drill on this one!
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -115 to -130
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3.5 -110
Over/Under 41 -103 to -110
The Lions are coming off a sizable upset, beating the Giants by 15 and staying perfect on the road. QB Joey Harrington has fallen in love with rookie wide receiver Roy Williams, who grabbed 4 for 67 yards and a touchdown despite the ankle problems that kept him out of game 7. When he's not play pass and catch with him he's hooking up with Az Hakim in the end-zone. Running backs Kevin Jones and Artrose Pinner are turning into a solid duo from the backfield.
What really amazes me is that the Lions have the worst offense and close to the worst defense in the league yet have 4 road wins. If they can keep up the play that they have so far I see no reason why they can't come away with a win in Dallas. (I snuck in a money line bet on Detriot last week that I was embarrassed to talk about and now wish I had).
Bill Parcells has done the unthinkable, he's shown weakness. He's slowed down practice in an effort to save his players energy. He's worried about their mental state and is watching their “body language”. When exactly did hell freeze over?
Dallas has got some major problems, both offensively and defensively. Although quarterback Vinny Testaverde has done a more than decent job, connecting with wide-outs Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn for over 750 yards and totaling out at about 1600, he has not had the protection that Parcells had promised him. He's double digits in sacks, 9 of those in the last 3 games. Running backs Eddie Goerge and Richie Anderson have combined for only 415 yards and 4 touchdowns. Dallas came into this season a proud defense and have since dropped to the lowly status of 25th overall and have given up the 3rd most points.
Is it age, coaching, lack of motivation? I know that this isn't the team the Mr. Parcells thought he was going to have at the beginning season.
Alright, enough ranting about how bad they have looked, let's get to Sunday's game. Dallas has to win to have a prayer of post-season play and not just because of the record. As a team if they drop this one at home it's over. That said, I don't think they will mount enough defense to stop Detriot from scoring and somehow the Lions will find a way to win.
My Online Betting Action: Lions +3
It's a small wager game, maybe better suited to the money line.
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -1.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 40.5 -110
Green Bay had another big win last week stomping Dallas 41-20. Running back Ahman Green went off, rushing for 163 yards and 2 touchdowns. As an added bonus he went a second week without a fumble. Quarter back Brett Favre was solid yet again, throwing for over 250 yards, with 2 touchdowns and he too went a second game with a goose egg in the turnover category. Wide-outs Javon Walker and Donald Driver were on the receiving end of Favres touchdown passes and had a camera shot catch a piece. Coach Mike Sherman pulled another rabbit out of the hat with the halfback toss from Tony Fisher to tight end Bubba Franks for 6 points. They are going to have a couple of key hurdles to jump on both sides of the ball. Big question marks next to safety Darren Sharper and guard Marco Riveras' names come to mind quickly, but Green Bay is looking much better defensively now that tackle Grady Jackson has returned.
The Redskins and coach Joe Gibbs are struggling right now. The bye may have helped a little but not enough, as they are still without line backer LaVar Arrington and kicker John Hall. Quarter back Mark Brunell is still not quite with the program, which leaves the burden of the offense on running back Clinton Portis' shoulders. Portis has done a fair job but has struggled keeping a handle on the ball, particularly near the goal-line.
Their defense, by contrast, has been very effective allowing about 16 points a game on an average of 85 or so rushing and less than 150 passing. They have 5 picks, 4 fumbles recoveries and 16 sacks to their credit. They are 1st overall with very good balance at 1st against the rush and 3rd against the pass.
Unfortunately for 'Skins fans those numbers aren't going to mean as much after Sunday. Considering that those stats have come by way of offenses that don't put big numbers up anyway. Tampa, Chicago, Dallas, Baltimore, all those teams have sub par scoring averages and are in the lower half of the offensive rankings, with the exception of Dallas.
My Online Betting Action: Packers -1.5
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -0 -110
Over/Under 56.5 to 57 -110
Indianapolis has a ton of weapons but are struggling to hit their target the last few games. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison is dinged up as is Brandon Stokley. They are a defensive nightmare overall, never mind their 6th ranking against the rush. Facing off with the likes of Priest Holmes isn't like going at it against any other running back in the game today. He can hurt you seven ways to Sunday.
The Chiefs are starting to get their act together offensively and everyone knows what they can do when that wheel is rolling. Quarter back Trent Green is marching steadily back up the passing charts. I've already mentioned Holmes, so no need in going through that. They are getting healthy at the wide receiver position with the complete recovery of Eddie Kennison.
Quite frankly this line surprises me and may very well have me betting the money line.
My Online Betting Action: Chiefs +1.5
Well this turned out to be longer than I thought. I'll be back in the morning with the rest of the weekend forecast... thanks for dropping by!
Ok folks, Fast and furious. Was going to do a big post, but ran out of time... hold the
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3.5 –105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 –110 to -130
Over/Under 33.5 to 35.5 -110
Would the real Cardinals please stand up? They must have put something other than Gatorade in those water bottles last week. The 25-17 upset of the Seattle Seahawks was just more proof that those Seattle uniforms have got to change. Seriously though, Arizona outplayed Holmgren's 'Hawks from whistle to whistle. In nearly every category they were ahead, just as the score reflected. Who says parity isn't good for the NFL? They may be getting their Stud To Be wide receiver Anquan Boldin back, but I doubt that it will have much impact considering the numbers that his conterpart Larry Fitzgerald, is putting up. More important will be the health of the corner back and strong safety positions with with David Macklin and Adrian Wilson still banged up.
Moving on, the Bills didn't fair so well last week losing another one, primarily do to quarter back(can we really call him that?) Drew Bledsoe's complete breakdown. The only turnover that wasn't his fault was the ball that Prime Time got after being tipped by Chad Williams. Yet he had the audacity to make the following statement after the game:
"We've got to play better," Bledsoe said. "We've got to run the ball better (and) our offense isn't good enough in the passing game. I don't know what the answer is."
Excuse me, “We've got to play better.”, “...our offense isn't good enough in the passing game...”, what planet are you on Drew? Yeah, I know you aren't getting the protection you need from your line. But you are a seasoned veteran, you should know by now how to throw the ball away. I may not know what the answer is either, but I know that it isn't giving the ball to the other team five times.
Why I wasted this much verbiage on this game I have no idea. Who cares who wins, Bills fans and Cardinals fans, that's about it.
For what it's worth I think the Cardinals get two in a row.
My Online Betting Action: None.
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7 -115
Over/Under 37.5 to 38 -110
The loss of running back Jamal Lewis will show it's real colors this week against the Eagles. They better have some ground game strategy mapped out or they are in trouble. Being as injury laden as they are offensively they cannot afford the luxury of getting behind by 10 and climbing back as Cleveland did. Remember that the Browns got a gift roughing the passer penalty on a fourth and seven play that set them up to put it into over-time. These are things that happen, but can't be expected. Another thing that can't be expected is the lack efficiency that the Eagles had in the red-zone. To throw salt on the wound, tackle Jonathan Ogden is questionable (although it's rumored that he'll play) which is going to make life even tougher for quarter back Kyle Boller, who proffered up a meager 60 yards last week.
What can I say about the Eagles that hasn't already been said about a thousand times. Quarter back Donovan McNabb is playing the best ball of his career. Wide receiver Terrel Owens is on pace to have the best season of his career and let's not forget the fact that they are in the top three in passing yards, points per game and yards per game. The Eagles McNabb has a QB rating of 105, and a completion percentage of 65%. Owens has a 99.3 yard per game average with 8 touchdowns. Defensively they are average, but do hold their opponents to under 16 points a game, just a couple notches below Baltimore. That's counting the 31 that the Browns scored.
My Online Betting Action: Eagles -7
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Titans -3.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -110 to -120
Over/Under 40.5 -110
You all know the drill on this one!
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -115 to -130
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3.5 -110
Over/Under 41 -103 to -110
The Lions are coming off a sizable upset, beating the Giants by 15 and staying perfect on the road. QB Joey Harrington has fallen in love with rookie wide receiver Roy Williams, who grabbed 4 for 67 yards and a touchdown despite the ankle problems that kept him out of game 7. When he's not play pass and catch with him he's hooking up with Az Hakim in the end-zone. Running backs Kevin Jones and Artrose Pinner are turning into a solid duo from the backfield.
What really amazes me is that the Lions have the worst offense and close to the worst defense in the league yet have 4 road wins. If they can keep up the play that they have so far I see no reason why they can't come away with a win in Dallas. (I snuck in a money line bet on Detriot last week that I was embarrassed to talk about and now wish I had).
Bill Parcells has done the unthinkable, he's shown weakness. He's slowed down practice in an effort to save his players energy. He's worried about their mental state and is watching their “body language”. When exactly did hell freeze over?
Dallas has got some major problems, both offensively and defensively. Although quarterback Vinny Testaverde has done a more than decent job, connecting with wide-outs Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn for over 750 yards and totaling out at about 1600, he has not had the protection that Parcells had promised him. He's double digits in sacks, 9 of those in the last 3 games. Running backs Eddie Goerge and Richie Anderson have combined for only 415 yards and 4 touchdowns. Dallas came into this season a proud defense and have since dropped to the lowly status of 25th overall and have given up the 3rd most points.
Is it age, coaching, lack of motivation? I know that this isn't the team the Mr. Parcells thought he was going to have at the beginning season.
Alright, enough ranting about how bad they have looked, let's get to Sunday's game. Dallas has to win to have a prayer of post-season play and not just because of the record. As a team if they drop this one at home it's over. That said, I don't think they will mount enough defense to stop Detriot from scoring and somehow the Lions will find a way to win.
My Online Betting Action: Lions +3
It's a small wager game, maybe better suited to the money line.
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -3 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -1.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 40.5 -110
Green Bay had another big win last week stomping Dallas 41-20. Running back Ahman Green went off, rushing for 163 yards and 2 touchdowns. As an added bonus he went a second week without a fumble. Quarter back Brett Favre was solid yet again, throwing for over 250 yards, with 2 touchdowns and he too went a second game with a goose egg in the turnover category. Wide-outs Javon Walker and Donald Driver were on the receiving end of Favres touchdown passes and had a camera shot catch a piece. Coach Mike Sherman pulled another rabbit out of the hat with the halfback toss from Tony Fisher to tight end Bubba Franks for 6 points. They are going to have a couple of key hurdles to jump on both sides of the ball. Big question marks next to safety Darren Sharper and guard Marco Riveras' names come to mind quickly, but Green Bay is looking much better defensively now that tackle Grady Jackson has returned.
The Redskins and coach Joe Gibbs are struggling right now. The bye may have helped a little but not enough, as they are still without line backer LaVar Arrington and kicker John Hall. Quarter back Mark Brunell is still not quite with the program, which leaves the burden of the offense on running back Clinton Portis' shoulders. Portis has done a fair job but has struggled keeping a handle on the ball, particularly near the goal-line.
Their defense, by contrast, has been very effective allowing about 16 points a game on an average of 85 or so rushing and less than 150 passing. They have 5 picks, 4 fumbles recoveries and 16 sacks to their credit. They are 1st overall with very good balance at 1st against the rush and 3rd against the pass.
Unfortunately for 'Skins fans those numbers aren't going to mean as much after Sunday. Considering that those stats have come by way of offenses that don't put big numbers up anyway. Tampa, Chicago, Dallas, Baltimore, all those teams have sub par scoring averages and are in the lower half of the offensive rankings, with the exception of Dallas.
My Online Betting Action: Packers -1.5
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -0 -110
Over/Under 56.5 to 57 -110
Indianapolis has a ton of weapons but are struggling to hit their target the last few games. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison is dinged up as is Brandon Stokley. They are a defensive nightmare overall, never mind their 6th ranking against the rush. Facing off with the likes of Priest Holmes isn't like going at it against any other running back in the game today. He can hurt you seven ways to Sunday.
The Chiefs are starting to get their act together offensively and everyone knows what they can do when that wheel is rolling. Quarter back Trent Green is marching steadily back up the passing charts. I've already mentioned Holmes, so no need in going through that. They are getting healthy at the wide receiver position with the complete recovery of Eddie Kennison.
Quite frankly this line surprises me and may very well have me betting the money line.
My Online Betting Action: Chiefs +1.5
Well this turned out to be longer than I thought. I'll be back in the morning with the rest of the weekend forecast... thanks for dropping by!
Thursday, October 28, 2004
My apologies for the quick copy and paste post, but this was worth a read. Some of it I agree with completely, some I think is pure horse manure (Mike Martz, ugh!). To my loyal readers reader, I will have my usual, long winded, why do I bother to read this drivel, match-up analysis and picks tomorrow. 'Til then enjoy this little tid-bit...
NFC East
By far the biggest surprise has been the New York Giants. I thought they would have one or maybe two wins by game six. Instead, the intensity of Tom Coughlin has produced on field performance.
A disappointing surprise has been the Dallas Cowboys. They are nowhere near as good defensively and Bill Parcells made a mistake in not drafting Steven Jackson. Instead they selected an already injured Julius Jones.
The Washington Redskins defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, is making an impact and Clinton Portis really is not. Most would have thought that the opposite would have happened.
With the Philadelphia Eagles, there have been no surprises at all. This may be the best football organization not located in New England.
NFC North
The Detroit Lions are the surprise team to me. If Ben Roethlisberger does not win rookie of the year, how about Roy Williams? You can compliment all the so-called skill players you want, but the Lions are a better team because of their offensive and defensive line improvement.
Green Bay Packers are no surprise, except for their Tennessee Titans game on Monday Night Football. I do wonder how much longer Brett Favre can separate his personal and professional life. He only has so much emotion to work with.
Minnesota Vikings with Daunte Culpepper is a surprise, but remember the support that he's getting from Mewelde Moore. When you can find a starter from the 4th round in the draft, you elevate an entire offense, especially the quarterback.
I think the Chicago Bears will surprise people later in the year. I am sure they did not anticipate using Craig Krenzel at quarterback by game seven. On a more positive note, Thomas Jones has been solid at running back.
AFC South
Watch out for Brian Griese and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Personally, I really didn't have a lot of faith in him but he may have found the perfect mentor in Jon Gruden.
In the exact opposite, the Atlanta Falcons are having a good year, but quarterback Michael Vick is not. By Week 10 or so, this West Coast Offense and his skills should begin to mesh, if not, the NFL's greatest athlete may need to sit down for a game or two.
With the Carolina Panthers, losses in free agency in combination with injury have made a Super Bowl participating team look very average.
The temptations of Bourbon Street seem to take the most talented players of the New Orleans Saints and diminish their skills to the average.
NFC West
The Arizona Cardinals are my surprise team of the year. I was going to write all about how real they are, but I've yet to see them on T.V. Arizona is turning it around because of head coach Dennis Green.
The St. Louis Rams have no surprises in that they throw to win, and run to kill the clock. I have immense respect for Mike Martz but I do question that penalty assessment in the Miami Dolphins game.
With the San Francisco 49ers, check out the next seven games on their schedule.
For the Seattle Seahawks, their November 14th game at St. Louis will probably determine whether the Seahawks finish first in the division or even make the playoffs at all.
AFC East
The Buffalo Bills are not a surprise to me at all. Their training camp had all kinds of side issues not related to football and consequently they never got it together offensively.
With the Miami Dolphins, I think they still can win six or seven games because they're too good on defense. Now that they're out of the playoffs they will play with a nothing to lose mentality and that's dangerous.
The New England Patriots are the class of the NFL and will continue to be, but I also really like the New York Jets. Lost in the loss to the Patriots last week was the fact that the Jets held New England to only 13 points, which is a season low for the Patriots.
AFC North
I think the Baltimore Ravens are a surprise because Brian Billick has yet to develop a dominant quarterback. I would not be surprised as all to see Anthony Wright as the starter by Week 10.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are starting to look like the obvious choice in the division. Ben Roethlisberger beats the Patriots, then he will be considered the next Terry Bradshaw. The biggest surprise has been Troy Polamalu at strong safety. For a team to win consistently their number one draft picks must come through as soon as possible and Polamalu in his second year is doing just that.
The Ohio teams - the Browns and Bengals - can go either way. Cleveland competed extremely well against Philadelphia and Cincinnati beat a Denver team that was going into the Monday Night Game as the number one ranked defense and the number four rated offense. Both Ohio teams should be confident in the last two thirds of the season.
AFC South
This is my favorite division. I don't know how the Jacksonville Jaguars do it, but with four wins inside the last minute of a game, you have to ask whether the wins come from skill or luck. I understand the mentality of winning the close games, but the Jags are the Carolina Panthers of 2003. Carolina won seven games by three points or less last year.
Another team on the rise are the Houston Texans. Considering their youth at so many positions the Texans are going to be good for a long time.
I expect the Colts to continue to win again starting this Sunday in Kansas City and would not be surprised if they won their next eight games.
The Tennessee Titans are a mystery to me. Did the absence of Javon Kearse mean that much to the pass rush? What about Eddie George to the team leadership? The Titans are a good team that are not playing up to their talent level, except for the Green Bay game of course.
AFC West
The surprise in this division is the San Diego Chargers. The disappointments are the Kansas City Chiefs and the Oakland Raiders. The known quantity is the Denver Broncos.
I still think that Denver will win the division. The question is whether or not the Chargers make the playoffs. They play the Chiefs on November 28 and the last game of the season, January 2. If San Diego can continue to improve in the next month, then both games can be competitive.
Oakland reminds me a little of New Orleans, lots of talent everywhere but something is missing. Maybe the Raiders are missing a dominating running back, like Ricky Williams.
Then there is Denver. I'm am not a fan of any particular team, but I do enjoy watching the Broncos just a little more than anyone else. Rod Smith is the most undervalued receiver and in general, football player there is.
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Online Betting Lines Week 8
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3.5 –105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 –110 to -130
Over/Under 34 to 34.5 -110
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 37.5 to 38 -101 to -110
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Titans -3.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -110 to -120
Over/Under 40.5 -110
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -125
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -110
Over/Under 40.5 to 41 -109 to -110
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -1.5 -110
Over/Under 40.5 -110
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -1 -110
Over/Under 57 -110
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Texans -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -110
Over/Under 42.5 -110
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -6.5 -110
Over/Under 48 to 48.5 -110
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 53 -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -110
Over/Under 38.5 to 39.5 -110
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -110
Over/Under 39 to 39.5 -110
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line Patriots -3 100 to -110
Over/Under 42 to 42.5 –110
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 –105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6 -110
Over/Under 46 -110
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bears -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bears -1 -110
Over/Under 35.5 to 36 -110
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 –110 to -115
Over/Under 35 to 35.5 -110
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
Current High NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3.5 –105 to -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 –110 to -130
Over/Under 34 to 34.5 -110
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
Current High NFL Betting Line: Eagles -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -105 to -110
Over/Under 37.5 to 38 -101 to -110
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Titans -3.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -110 to -120
Over/Under 40.5 -110
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
Current High NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -125
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -110
Over/Under 40.5 to 41 -109 to -110
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
Current High NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Packers -1.5 -110
Over/Under 40.5 -110
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
Current High NFL Betting Line: Colts -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Colts -1 -110
Over/Under 57 -110
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Texans -1.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -110
Over/Under 42.5 -110
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
Current High NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Vikings -6.5 -110
Over/Under 48 to 48.5 -110
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 53 -110
Current High NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Broncos -6.5 -110
Over/Under 38.5 to 39.5 -110
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
Current High NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -8.5 -105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -110
Over/Under 39 to 39.5 -110
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3.5 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line Patriots -3 100 to -110
Over/Under 42 to 42.5 –110
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
Current High NFL Betting Line: Chargers -7 –105
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Chargers -6 -110
Over/Under 46 -110
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
Current High NFL Betting Line: Bears -2 -110
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Bears -1 -110
Over/Under 35.5 to 36 -110
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
Current High NFL Betting Line: Jets -7.5 -115
Current Low NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 –110 to -115
Over/Under 35 to 35.5 -110
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
NFL Pick of the Week Against the Spread - Online Betting Lines Week 8
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 53 -110
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
The Arizona Cardinals (2-4) at The Buffalo Bills (1-5)
Against the Spread: Cardinals 4-2-0 | Bills 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Buffalo -3 -121 Over/Under 34u -109
The Baltimore Ravens (4-2) at The Philadelphia Eagles (6-0)
Against the Spread: Ravens 4-2-0 | Eagles 5-1-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Eagles -7.5 -102 Over/Under 37.5u -103
The Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) at The Tennessee Titans (2-5)
Against the Spread: Bengals 1-5-0 | Titans 2-5-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Titans -3 -120 Over/Under 40.5u -105
The Detroit Lions (4-2) at The Dallas Cowboys (2-4)
Against the Spread: Lions 4-2-0 | Cowboys 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Dallas -3 -119 Over/Under 39u -116
The Green Bay Packers (3-4) at The Washington Redskins (2-4)
Against the Spread: Packers 3-4-0 | Redskins 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Packers -2.5 -115 Over/Under 40.5u -104
The Indianapolis Colts (4-2) at The Kansas City Chiefs (2-4)
Against the Spread: Colts 4-1-1 | Chiefs 2-4-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Colts -1.5 -107 Over/Under 58.5u -115
The Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) at The Houston Texans (3-3)
Against the Spread: Jaguars 5-2-0 | Texans 3-3-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Texans -1 -103 Over/Under 43u -100
The N.Y. Giants (4-2) at The Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Against the Spread: Giants 4-2-0 | Vikings 4-2-0
Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Vikings -7 -106 Over/Under 49u -100
The Atlanta Falcons (5-2) at The Denver Broncos (5-2)
Against the Spread: Falcons 2-5-0 | Broncos 2-3-2
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Broncos -7 -110 Over/Under 53 -110
The Carolina Panthers (1-5) at The Seattle Seahawks (3-3)
Against the Spread: Panthers 2-4-0 | Seahawks 3-3-0
Game Time: 4:05 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Seahawks -7.5 -100 Over/Under 39.5u +102
The New England Patriots (6-0) at The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
Against the Spread: Patriots 4-0-2 | Steelers 4-2-0
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Patriots -3 -109 Over/Under 43.5u -105
The Oakland Raiders (2-5) at The San Diego Chargers (4-3)
Against the Spread: Raiders 2-5-0 | Chargers 5-1-1
Game Time: 4:15 PM ET
Opening NFL Betting Line: Chargers -5.5 -110 Over/Under 45.5u -112
The San Francisco 49ers (1-5) at The Chicago Bears (1-5)
Against the Spread: 49ers 4-2-0 | 2-4-0
Game Time: 8:30 PM ET ESPN
Opening NFL Betting Line: Bears -2.5 -103 Over/Under 35u -105
The Miami Dolphins (1-6) at The N.Y. Jets (5-1)
Against the Spread: Dolphins 2-5-0 | Jets 3-2-1
Game Time: Monday 9:00 PM ET ABC Monday Night Football
Opening NFL Betting Line: Jets -6.5 -113 Over/Under 35u -108
Monday, October 25, 2004
NFL Pick of the Week Monday Night Football
So I dodged the “already drunks” and “soon to be drunks”, clad in orange and black tiger stripped jersey's baring names like Palmer and Johnson and even Graham, on my way home from work tonight (I live downtown). The air here in the Queen City is buzzing. Bengals host their first Monday Night Football game in 15 years. Let me tell you, it's obvious on the faces of those around me that it's been along time. The Blimp and the planes with banners blazing a trail behind them fill the early evening sky. As a longtime Bengals fan, I can't help but be filled with the excitement myself. I will, during this game, step out on to my deck, which overlooks the city, just so I can see the bright white glow coming from our stadium. I am a proud man tonight. I am a proud Bengals fan tonight. It is for those reasons that I can not, no, I will not write an analysis of this game. I'm going to enjoy this moment. I'm going to sit in my living room with the sliding glass doors wide open and breath that excitement in, letting it wash over me, just as it has the tens of thousands of fans around me and my city.
I will leave you with this to read before you place your wagers or simply sit down to watch the game. Thanks for dropping my my little blip on the blog radar...
So I dodged the “already drunks” and “soon to be drunks”, clad in orange and black tiger stripped jersey's baring names like Palmer and Johnson and even Graham, on my way home from work tonight (I live downtown). The air here in the Queen City is buzzing. Bengals host their first Monday Night Football game in 15 years. Let me tell you, it's obvious on the faces of those around me that it's been along time. The Blimp and the planes with banners blazing a trail behind them fill the early evening sky. As a longtime Bengals fan, I can't help but be filled with the excitement myself. I will, during this game, step out on to my deck, which overlooks the city, just so I can see the bright white glow coming from our stadium. I am a proud man tonight. I am a proud Bengals fan tonight. It is for those reasons that I can not, no, I will not write an analysis of this game. I'm going to enjoy this moment. I'm going to sit in my living room with the sliding glass doors wide open and breath that excitement in, letting it wash over me, just as it has the tens of thousands of fans around me and my city.
I will leave you with this to read before you place your wagers or simply sit down to watch the game. Thanks for dropping my my little blip on the blog radar...
Bengals, history line up
BY GEOFF HOBSON
A night of NFL history at Paul Brown Stadium caps a week of national sports history that Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has tried do draw on. But Monday night’s matchup with the Broncos also has some of the Bengals thinking of some recent history.
“I hate to say it, but we’re in a win-win position,” said linebacker Kevin Hardy. “Everybody thinks Denver is going to come in here and run all over us. We expect that we can go out there and stop them. I think the defense can set the tempo if we can go out there, get some three-and-outs, and if we can stop them, we can shock the world like we did against Kansas City.”
That happened at PBS nearly a year ago, when the Bengals knocked off the 9-0 Chiefs, 24-19, while bottling up Kansas City’s top-ranked offense and holding running back Priest Holmes to 62 yards rushing.
But if that was less than a year ago, it might as well be 15 years ago as ABC’s Monday Night Football makes its first appearance ever at PBS and first in Cincinnati since Sept. 25, 1989.
When the Bengals wrapped up Holmes, little did anyone know it would be one of the last times Cincinnati’s last-ranked run defense would play stoutly. Not only does Denver come to town with the NFL’s top-ranked running game, but the Broncos also serve up the league’s No. 1 defense to a first-year quarterback that has already been buffeted by units ranked Nos. 3, 5, 6, 11 and 13.
Spotlight on Cincinnati
Frankly, a straw poll of the locker room reveals that while the Bengals appreciate this rare chance on Monday Night, the 1-4 record has their minds on other things.
“I’m excited for the city. The city’s been looking forward to this,” said right tackle Willie Anderson, who finally appears on Monday night after 131 games. “I play in the NFL. We’re on TV every week. That’s big for y’all. We've just got to get down in our stance and block somebody. I don’t know what camera is on me. If it’s ABC, NBC, ESPN. I know what channel we’re going to be on, (but) a kid in college and high school might be more geeked up.
“No, we don’t want to look bad on national TV,” Anderson said. “That’s every week. You don’t want to look bad every week. You want to win, too. If we win and it’s ugly, we’re happy. It’s a win. It’s like in college. The rivalry is more for the fans.”
Left tackle Levi Jones has a chance to show he’s as good as his press clippings from last season but for him, what else is knew?
“You’re doing that every week,” Jones said. “You’re trying to show that every week. It is nice that people back home (in Arizona) who can’t afford the satellite can watch you play and see the hometown guy. I’ve been getting a lot of calls. But you’re trying to prove yourself every week.”
ABC’s John Madden says Monday Night is the closest you can get to the playoffs for teams that haven’t been there. For a team that hasn’t been on a Monday Night broadcast of any kind since 1992, the Bengals have plenty of guys who have been in the playoffs.
“Really, I don’t like playing on Monday Night all that much," said defensive tackle John Thornton, one of 13 playoff veterans on the roster. “I really like that routine of playing at 1:00 on Sunday instead of waiting around all day on Sunday and Monday.”
Hardy has also done both playoffs and Monday nights, and while he approaches it like another game, he knows the atmosphere and the scrutiny is not.
“Everybody is watching you. It’s the premier game. The guys know they’re playing in front of a national audience,” Hardy said.
Prime motivation
Carson Palmer, that first-year quarterback, says he feeds off the attention and it’s nothing different than the focus he has received all season.
“I enjoy it,” Palmer said. “First Monday Night game since ’92, a struggling offense playing the No. 1 defense in the league. A win could get us going in the other direction, a win would give us confidence, give our fans confidence in us. It would just get us going.”
Al Michaels, ABC’s play-by-play man, has seen plenty of instances where a team used a Monday Night to “springboard” to a good season. He thinks an upset against Denver could do it.
“They were 1-4 last year, too,” Michaels said. “The greatest bit of nonsense on television today is guys picking stocks and guys picking football games. As simple as that. It’s these games where what we think is going to happen doesn’t happen.”
Of course, the big fear is a bad outing on MNF matched with a bad season can get you off the cameras for a few more years. Michaels doesn’t have to be reminded that during the last Bengals’ playoff season in 1990, they were on prime time three times that October.
“That’s what happens when you have good players and good teams,” Michaels said. “They were thought of as one of the best franchises as the '80s ended. Then you go through a decade like the '90s were, and people forget about you. They always see you down at the bottom. Then after the resurrection last year, you have to validate it, and they just haven’t done it at this point.”
What curse?
Times have been tough, and Lewis turned to baseball to make some points during the past few weeks. After Yankees closer Mariano Rivera returned from a family tragedy to save Game 1 of the American League Championship Series, Lewis used that as an example of overcoming the worst of adversities.
Then, when the Red Sox became the first team ever to force a Game 7 after being down 3-0, Lewis pointed out how they had flourished despite the crushing majority of people saying they couldn’t. He figured he didn’t have to say a word after the Sox won it.
“We’ve been trying to find things like that all year,” Hardy said. “Does it help? I think it’s good to make the point. If you hear guys talking about it after, then obviously it made a point, and you hear guys talking about it.”
But, like Thornton said, “Baseball is so much different than football. You play every day. Play against the same team.”
Overcoming adversity
Lewis especially knows history of his own team. In drawing a comparison to the early-game emotion of a Monday Night, he invoked both the win against the Chiefs and the loss to the Broncos from last season.
“We had it a couple of times last year we were able to get over it,” Lewis said of the early-game jitters. “Against the Chiefs, there was adversity all over the spot. We were able to overcome it. We were very anxious. Denver made us very anxious last year in the first game of the year. I hope we’ve grown from that and matured from that.
“Every year somebody writes history. Somebody does something that no one has done before,” Lewis said. “That’s why we play the game. Otherwise, it’s no fun. We wouldn’t have jobs.”
His job will be a lot easier if the Bengals make history, and don’t repeat it Monday night.
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